Passagemaking

Boys on the bow of s/v Lyr (On the Horizon Line)

"Cruisers'' actually spend most of their time staying put - whether at anchor or in a marina.  But when they are on the move... well, as Capt. Ron famously proclaimed, "If it's going to happen, it's going to happen out there." In the posts linked below, you can read about the pleasure and the pain of passagemaking. Some of these posts contain practical advice.  In all you will sense the joy and the despair, the boredom and  terror, and above all a sense of wonder that we small humans, in our tiny specks that we call boats, can be carried from one port to the next.

Sewing Sailors

Planning for the "blasted winch covers" (Sailing Journey)

Sailing is expensive!  We all know that a big way to cut costs in the boating world is to DIY!  Teak, boat systems, and bottom paint are things many of us have figured out how to do in order to save cash, but have you ever thought about sewing?  Canvas covers are expensive!  CUSTOM canvas covers are really expensive!  What about those cockpit cushions!?  Expensive!  Whether you're a stitching stranger or a skillful seamstress, here are some posts to inspire you and hopefully save you a few bucks!  Enjoy!

Energy Management

Side solar panels aboard S.V. Cambria

In our very plugged-in world, managing energy aboard and prioritizing systems can be especially challenging. How do we satisfy the seemingly boundless demand for electricity? What amenities do you choose to limit or do without? What power sources work best where?

Check out this variety of posts on solar, wind, and how to manage energy demands. One common theme is the desire to be self-sufficient, off the grid, and environmentally responsible. But being independent types, we each plot our own course to get there.

The New Normal

When you're a landlubber, living on land is "normal." But if you live on a boat, the old "normal" goes out the window porthole.  For example, boaters often note the drastic lifestyle changes required by space limitations.  Also, we know that we are much more energy/resource aware, living on a boat.  But on the other hand, there are definite benefits to the liveaboard lifestyle.  The bottom line: if you live aboard, you adjust to a "new normal," for better and for worse.

Sole-less shoes: one of the benefits of cruiser "normal," according to Holli (s/v Shiloh)

In this collection of links, bloggers explore the differences between shore-based normal and ship-based normal.