Since conditions are less forgiving, the boat needs to be well-found and seaworthy. Squalls and heavy rain soon expose tired sails, old rigging and leaky deck fittings. Cold hands slow down tasks on deck, so equipment needs to operate smoothly. Boat husbandry over the summer, such as seizing shackles and servicing winches, is inexpensive but will keep things running sweetly when you need them most. Additional kit can be expensive but some creature comforts become a necessity rather than a luxury.
SPRAYHOOD & COCKPIT TENT
If you haven’t already got one, a sprayhood is the single biggest improvement you can make. Cockpit tents take this a stage further, extending your living
