Mixing coolant types in your diesel boat engine isn’t a great idea. Even though coolants come in different colors (like green, orange, etc.), the color doesn’t really tell you if they’re compatible. Each type has its own mix of chemicals, and mixing them can mess with the engine’s cooling system, reducing protection against rust and wear. It could also make things more complicated if you need to do repairs down the line, and might even void your warranty. To keep things simple and make sure your engine stays in good shape, just stick to the recommended coolant type and avoid mixing different kinds.

The American Sailing Association (ASA) offers a clear progression for sailors, starting with the basics and moving towards more advanced skills. Here’s a quick look at the first five levels:

• ASA 101: Basic Keelboat Sailing – Learn the basics of sailing a small keelboat, including handling the boat, safety, and essential sailing skills.
• ASA 102: Sailing for Day Sailors – This level focuses on sailing in familiar, protected waters. You’ll learn how to handle the boat in light winds, refine your skills, and be comfortable on the water.
• ASA 103: Basic Coastal Cruising – Learn to sail larger boats, handle coastal conditions, and gain an understanding of navigation and weather.
• ASA 104: Bareboat Cruising – This course prepares you for chartering a cruising sailboat, with advanced skills in navigation, boat systems, and safety.
• ASA 105: Coastal Navigation – Focus on navigation techniques, chart reading, tides, and planning coastal passages.

The LifeSling is an essential tool for man overboard (MOB) recovery. To use it, first, throw the LifeSling toward the person in the water. Once the sling is in the water, maneuver the boat in a wide circle to bring the LifeSling to the person. After reaching them, the individual should slip the LifeSling over their torso and under their arms, much like a harness. Finally, pull the person back to the boat using the floating line, either manually or with a winch, depending on the situation.

Bowline vs. Buntline Knot: Key Differences

The bowline makes a fixed loop that’s quick to tie, won’t slip under load, and is easy to untie—even after stress. It’s great for general use like tying to cleats, rings, or posts. The buntline knot also forms a loop but is more compact and stronger under tension. It’s ideal for securing ropes to spars (like masts or booms) and holds better under pressure due to an extra turn around the standing part. Use the bowline when you need versatility and ease. Choose the buntline when strength and security matter most.

Best Uses: Bowline vs. Buntline Knot

Doing sailing drills is a great way to sharpen skills. Here are some of the well known ones.

Tacking and Jibing
Master turning the bow (tacking) and stern (jibing) through the wind. Practice these maneuvers to become smoother and more fluid in your movements.

Man Overboard Drill
Practice recovering a person (or lifejacket!) from the water by turning the boat and positioning it to safely bring them back on board.

Heaving To
Learn how to stop or slow the boat by heaving to, which is useful for taking a break, dealing with heavy weather, or pausing on a long voyage.

Wind Awareness and Sail Trim
Practice adjusting your sails based on wind direction to maximize performance. Small changes in trim can have a big impact on speed and control.

Docking and Undocking
Practice docking and undocking under various conditions, using fenders, handling lines properly, and communicating clearly with your crew.

Crew Communication Drill
Clear communication is essential for smooth sailing. Practice giving commands and using hand signals, ensuring everyone on board is coordinated.

Sailing in Different Conditions
Practice sailing in light winds, heavy gusts, and shifting conditions. The more experience you get, the more prepared you’ll be for any situation.

Close-Quarter Maneuvering
Practice navigating tight spaces, avoiding collisions, and keeping control of your boat when moving through confined areas like marinas or narrow channels.

Starting and Stopping the Boat
Practice starting and stopping the boat smoothly by controlling throttle and sails, making sure you can initiate and halt movement without abrupt motions.

Reaching and Beating
Practice sailing with the wind coming from the side (reaching) and sailing as close to the wind as possible without stalling (beating). These points of sail are fundamental to efficient movement.

The “Pinch” and “Ease” Techniques
Learn to “pinch” by sailing close to the wind, and “ease” by adjusting your sails to a more comfortable position. Mastering both techniques increases your control in varying wind conditions.

Proper Use of the Rudder and Centerboard
Practice steering with the rudder and adjusting the centerboard for better control, especially in light winds. These elements are key for preventing side slip and maintaining course.

Navigational Drills
Simulate simple routes using a chart, compass, and markers. This will help you improve your navigation skills and awareness of your position on the water.

Reefing the Sail
Practice reefing your sail in strong wind conditions. This technique allows you to reduce sail area, maintain control, and avoid overpowering the boat when the wind picks up.