Seamanship
Seamanship is the art and science of operating a boat. Seamanship encompasses navigation, radio communications, boat handling, watch-standing, anchoring, docking, engine and equipment maintenance, towing, weather forecasting, search-and-rescue techniques, and more. These skills are attained over time, but there are many books, videos, and courses available to acquaint you fully with the wide range of subjects.
Share the Helm: An Introduction to Couples Cruising
A partner who doesn’t know enough about boating isn’t going to enjoy boating with you.
Inlet Navigation Safety Tips
Inlets can be tricky. Here's some expert advice to help you avoid a harrowing tale.
The Late Late Show
Follow these essential seamanship best practices when cruising past sundown.
Mooring 101: Best Practices, Worst Mistakes
It’s not just your mooring lines that require attention. It’s also what you tie them to at the dock.
Bar Hopping: A Dangerous Game [updated w/VIDEO]
Crossing a bar safely requires careful planning and good seamanship. A little local knowledge helps, too.
When Momentum Is The Enemy
Making good decisions at sea is about much more than going with your gut.
Red Sky at Night: Tips for Post-Apocalyptic Weather Forecasting
When Electronics Go Dark, We Go Old-School
How To Run an Inlet and How Not To: Dramatic Video and Tips From a Pro
Captain Safe After Being Tossed from Flybridge at Boynton Inlet in Florida
Seamanship Tips To Make Living Aboard Easier
Basic Solutions to Challenges That Cruisers Face Every Day
On The Hook: Anchor Math and Management, Part 2
A Deeper Dive into the Art of Not Going Anywhere
On The Hook: Anchor Math and Management Part 1
Believe it or not, there is much more to simply tossing your anchor overboard. Check in with cruising contributors, Rudy and Jill Sechez and discover part 1 of the anchor math equation.
Seamanship: Time and Tide, Part One
A look at the physics behind our tides and why it matters for the everyday seafarer.
How to Maneuver Your Boat in Close Quarters
The expertise you employ maneuvering in close quarters has as much to do with skill as it does with proper planning.
Seamanship: Narrow Straits
Understanding our responsibilities for operating in narrow channels with large ships
The Importance Of Rule 5 And Situational Awareness
An important Seamanship article from our friends at Soundings Magazine regarding COLREGS Rule 5.
Just Another Day on the Outer Banks (Video)
Check out this video from a day of surf drills in 10 to 12 foot seas
A Lesson in Strong Current Maneuvering (Video)
These Galician fishermen handle a boat through five-knot current.
