Understanding how the earth’s magnetism works helps sailors understand how the compass works. In this guide I will talk about the difference between magnetic north, declination and magnetic heading. External forces in navigation Remember that every boat is subjected to external forces – other than propellers and thrusters. If these… Read More »Magnetism: learn using the compass
There are several challenges in keeping your course, while you are sailing. It is almost impossible for you to keep your course as you have planned it: you have to take into account some important factors that affect it, such as fuel shortage, drift or sideslipping. It is also important,… Read More »The challenges of course-keeping
If you would like to sail properly and safely, there are some skills you are supposed to have: How to measure miles Measuring miles using a nautical chart is essential. It will allow you to know at what speed you should travel to reach the destination within a given time.… Read More »How to calculate miles, speed and time while sailing
Water in Bilge If you find water in the bilge, check whether it is fresh or saltwater; if it happens to be fresh water, it is likely from the boat’s plumbing systems, such as from the water heater. In this case we operate the bilge pump and inspect the fittings… Read More »On-board facilities and emergency management
Estimating navigation correctly is very important for sailors, as much as plotting a course. Indeed, it is a matter of being in control of the space and time of navigation, and thus knowing how to plan one’s trip in a pleasure craft, whether short or long. The tools for estimating… Read More »Estimating boat navigation
Although we don’t often think about it when we talk about sailing, river navigation signage is very common in Italy. Its signage is different from maritime signage, so in this guide I will give you some useful insights about it. That is why you should know it in order to… Read More »The signals of river navigation in Italy
The anchoring rules are pretty much the same all over the world… But let’s take a closer look to the specific words of anchoring in Italian – they will be useful if you plan a cruise in Italy! Anchor parts – in Italian First of all, the anchor must have… Read More »The anchor and anchoring rules – sailing in Italy
The electrical system is different depending on the type of engine in the boat. For example, there are the internal combustion engine, and then a diesel engine. Combustion engine 1) battery 2) starter motor 3) coil 4) ignition system 5) spark plug 6) cylinder for mixing air and gasoline 7)… Read More »The electrical system and cooling in a boat engine
Marine engines can experience a number of faults, and we should know them all. It is good to understand when you can intervene and when you should contact authorized workshops. Remember it’s not just a matter of skill! In my experience as a marine surveyor in Italy, I have learned… Read More »Marine engine: the most common failures
Not every boat can be disassembled or altered. Especially when the survey is commissioned by the buyer, the inspection will be visual and thorough investigation is not possible. In this case, no extra survey tools are used except the digital hygrometer. Hull inspection The marine surveyor performs an analysis of… Read More »Wooden boat inspection – in brief