Friday, November 24, 2017

Electric Toilets Professionals Share Great Ways to Get Great Coaching From A Small Budget

Life is truly good for the crew of this Alerion 28 as they enjoy a quiet evening on the water


Electric Toilet Specialists at Raritan Discuss How to Get More Bang for Your Buck When Getting Lessons 

Raritan Engineering your electric toilets suppliers would like to share with you these topics we thought would be of interest to you this month regarding great ways to get great coaching from a small budget.

Your electric toilets distributors talk about how not everyone can afford to have the top coach – or any coach – help them through their boat handling. Here are a few quick tips that can help you get the most out of your training sessions without shelling out the big bucks.

1.  Have a friend with a powerboat film your boathandling – Most of us have a friend or two with a powerboat and some free time. One of the easiest ways to get a look at your boat from outside is to enlist the help of a friend. 

2. Have your sail trimmers view trim from the powerboat – As an alternative to video taping your setup (or in addition to, depending on how much patience your friend has), have your sail trimmers observe from the chase boat for a legs to get a sense of what the sails look like from the outside. 

3. Combine your post-race of post-practice debrief with a competitor – Use the buddy system. If you have a friend sailing in your fleet, or a competitor that's willing to talk through races with you, it can be helpful for both parties if you debrief about the day's sailing. 


Your Electric Toilets Manufacturers Talk About Getting Good Quality Training At A Good Price

4. Have a crewmember time maneuvers with a stopwatch – Establishing a baseline by timing maneuvers is a good way to check yourself on performance. See your choice of electric toilets here at Raritan Engineering, where we always take care of your marine sanitation supply needs. Once you know about how long a tack or jibe should take, you can always run against the clock to check to see how you are doing. 

5. Swap crewmembers around during a practice maneuvers – Moving crew members around will help everyone onboard get a better sense of what each position does. When your bow guy knows what to look for in the shape of the jib, he can provide better feedback to the guy grinding the headsail in at the back of the boat. 

So don't forget these helpful pointers in getting the most of your boating lessons. 1) Have a friend with a powerboat film your boathandling;  2) have your sail trimmers view trim from the powerboat;  and 3) and combine your post-race of post-practice debrief with a competitor.


Lessons from a Long-Range Cruiser: What Tools To Take on Your Boat

We all learn from experience, or rather, we all should learn from experience. Here's some good advice from Steve D'Antonio, who has a lot of experience cruising himself, as well as working on cruising boats as the former manager of a boatyard. The reality is that if you're cruising offshore, you'll have to be able to fix any problem yourself. D'Antonio's been there, done that. 

First, he says, never leave the dock without reviewing your spare parts on board, particularly impellers, belts and fuel filters. Second, always have a good set of tools, including the most common hand tools, wrenches, sockets and screw drivers plus tools that are specific to the systems on your boat. And third, if all else fails, be able to improvise so you can jury rig a repair so you can get back home safely.

Order your marine toilet parts here at Raritan Engineering. We are your #1 expert in marine sanitation supplies.

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Thursday, November 9, 2017

Thru Hull Fittings Distributors Talks About Which Anti-Freeze Could Be Best For You


Your Thru Hull Fittings Suppliers Share Tips to Consider Before Buying Your Next Batch of Anti-Freeze

Raritan Engineering your thru hull fittings professionals would like to share with you this week some great information regarding which anti-freeze could be best for you and your boat.

There's nothing like buying several $3 bottles of antifreeze to protect your $30,000 boat, then coming home to discover the unused bottles frozen solid in your garage.

The onset of winter always brings queries about the effectiveness of certain anti-freeze concoctions. A couple years back we got a letter from Mark Baldwin, owner of a Seasprite 34, Ella, in Blue Hill, Maine.

It just so happened that when Mark's query arrived, we were in the middle of testing various antifreeze formulas for their effectiveness. 

Uni-Gard pink is listed as having 25- to 35-percent propylene glycol, which should provide the -50-degree burst protection claimed on the bottle. 

If, however, there is a lot of water still left in the boat's plumbing lines, the protection against freezing is diminished, and the anti-freeze can become even less effective through each freeze-and-thaw cycle. Ideally, during the winterizing process, the anti-freeze is flushed through the system to remove standing water from any low spots.


We Discuss How to Identify the Wrong Anti-Freeze For Your Boat

Your thru hull fittings specialists talk about how propylene glycol can harm components in freshwater and wastewater plumbing systems as well, b ut because ethylene glycol is not a safe choice for potable systems, there are no other antifreeze choices, other than draining the system.

Some sailors have suggested using Vodka as an antifreeze for potable water systems, but this turns out to be an expensive myth, and our tests have thoroughly debunked it. Not only will it burn holes in your pocket, it will turn your tanks and hoses into a fecund biome.

However, the EPA also cited several ways in which glycol can indirectly harm aquatic life by raising oxygen levels, etc. In our view, both formulas need to be used with care on land and near the water, and disposed of properly. Ideally, all glycols should be flushed and purged so that they can be captured for recycling.

Our research into the various anti-freeze additives on the market has produced many interesting findings, among them the correlation between improper winterizing and a stinky water tank.

Finally, here are a few other important tips.

  • Never use ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic to humans, in potable water systems. The best practice is to drain the water tanks and lines of all water. When this is not possible, drain the tank and circulate propylene glycol only through the plumbing to ensure all low spots have been purged of water, then leave propylene glycol in plumbing through the winter. 
  • Never use winterizing propylene glycol in the cooling system of a glycol-cooled engine. Diesel engine coolants are specially designed to prevent corrosion in the cooling system. 
  • Some antifreeze formulas aimed at the RV market have ethyl alcohol in them that can damage PVC plumbing hoses. Look for products with no ethyl alcohol.

So don't forget these reminders about finding the right anti-freeze for your boat. 1) Using vodka as a substitute is a myth;  2) Never use winterizing propylene glyc ol in the cooling system of a glycol-cooled engine;  and 3) look for products with no ethyl alcohol.


Leave your boat sitting pretty this winter

Owning a boat can be a great source of pleasure, offering fun in the sun, relaxation and adventure, but it's not something that comes without responsibilities. Maintenance and regular detailing is critical to prolonging the life of any boat or yacht and, by taking extra measures, you can help ensure that your enjoyment on the water is always maximized. 

Comfort inside, sun outside â While a boat brings fun and adventure, having the ability to take a break from the heat and cool off in the cabin is a true luxury. However, if the inside of your boat is just as warm as the deck, you're likely to have to cut your day on the water short. 

Reduce glare, im prove safety â Regardless of your boat's setup, sun glare can be uncomfortable and dangerous â especially for your captain. By having a professional install window tinting, your boat's windshield will block glare to lessen eye fatigue and improve visibility, even when the sun shines brightest, helping you always remain in control of your vessel. 

Block UV rays, prolong the fun â A day on the boat should be just that â an entire day â but without protection, hours spent in the sun can prove harmful. When on the water, having the option to take a brief break and cool off is pivotal and, with window tint, you get that option. 

Privacy and protection, even when away â Ensuring privacy and security of your vessel when docked or in storage is important to its longevity. With window tint, your boat and the valuables inside are kept private and the condition of the fixtures and furniture within the cabin sta y protected from sun damage. 

Having your boat or yacht tinted is not just for style and comfort, it adds extra value to your vessel, too. While it's a wise decision, marine window tint installation isn't as cut-and-dry as one might think, and in order to get the ultimate benefits, it's highly recommended to have a window tinting professional work on your boat. 

Click here and see more information about Raritan Engineering and thru hull fittings. We are your #1 expert in marine sanitation supplies.

via The (Cold) Case of the Frozen Antifreeze

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Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Macerating Toilet Specialists Share Great Reasons for Getting Your Immunizations Before Sailing Away

healthsmartvaccines-child-vaccines-adult-vaccines


Your Macerating Toilet Distributors Why Immunizations Are Crucial Before Heading Out On Your Cruising Excursion

Raritan Engineering your macerating toilet manufacturers would like to share with you these topics we thought would be of interest to you this month regarding great reasons why you should be getting your immunizations before going out on your sailing excursion. 

Your macerating toilet experts discuss how immunization can be an inconvenient detail in preparation for a long voyage, but it is crucial in order to ensure a safe and healthy one. The correct immunization depends on your health, medical history a nd destination. Immunizations exist for two reasons:

* To protect you from illness when you are exposed to harmful bacteria or viruses for the first time. Different cultures, fun as they may be, have different disease factors not found in North America.

* To protect populations at risk from contracting an illness brought in by you.

Factors in choosing appropriate immunization include:

* what immunizations you have had in the past

*your current state of health

* your destination

* your length of time you plan to stay in a designated spot.

* plan at least 6 months to 1 year in advance of your departure.

Immunizations come as a series of injections delivered over intervals of several weeks to months.

Find your marine toilet of choice here with us at Raritan Engineering, where we always tak e care of your marine sanitation supply needs.

Most common diseases found in the third world countries are transmitted by the following means:

* mosquito bites.

* poor sewage treatment and contaminated water.

* sharing of body fluids or blood from an infected person to an uninfected person. * working with or increasing exposure to the native population, especially in the rural areas.

Mosquito-Borne Infections:

* Japanese encephalitis

* Yellow fever

* Dengue fever

* Sleeping sickness( African Tryponason)

* Malaria

Poor Sewage/Sanitation and Contaminated Drinking Water:

* Hepatitis A

* Cholera

* Typhoid fever

* Amebiasis

* Chagas disease

* Cryptosporidiosis

* Giardiasis

* Schistosomiasis

Blood Borne Diseases:

* Hepatitis B and C

* HIV and Aids

Air Borne Diseases

These travel with air droplets and saliva i.e., sneezes, coughs and people speaking to you.

* Tuberculosis

* Pertussus

With all of these in mind, it is necessary to reassess your destination and the diseases that are more rampant for that specific area. Then get inoculated accordingly. 

So don't forget these important reminders about getting your immunizations early. 1) They are crucial for a safe and enjoyable voyage;  2) they protect you from illness when you are exposed to harmful bacteria or viruses for the first time;  and 3) they protect populations at risk from contracting an illness brought in by you.


Royal Caribbean canceled cruise, sent ship on rescue mission to Puerto Rico

Royal Caribbean has canceled an upcoming cruise in order to send a ship to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Vi rgin Islands on a mission to help hurricane victims.

The cruise line sent ships to St. Thomas and St. Martin to rescue a total of 1,700 people after Hurricane Irma struck the area.

According to the Miami Herland, travelers on the canceled voyage will get a full refund.

President Trump said earlier that week that the federal government has had difficulty getting aid to Puerto Rico, compared to other U.S. areas hit by hurricanes in the past months, because it is an island.

After pressure from lawmakers, Trump announced that he would temporarily suspend the Jones Act, easing shipping restrictions that have been stifling relief efforts.

Choose your Raritan marine products here at Raritan Engineering. We are your #1 expert in marine sanitation supplies.

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Monday, October 30, 2017

Macerator Toilet Specialists Discuss How to Get Ready for Winter Sailing

Your Macerator Toilet Distributors Give Suggestions On How to Prepare for the WinterRaritan Engineeringyour macerator toilet manufacturers would like to share with you this week some great information regarding how to get ready for winter sailing.

During my admittedly few winters above the frost-belt, I have only fond memories of the last few days of the season. And I've always admired those who didn't let the tilt of the Earth dictate the way they arranged their days.

This month,Practical Sailorcontributor Drew Frye reviews measures to take if you plan to extend your sailing through the winter.

Practical Sailorreaders who have been with us for a few years are familiar with Frye's work, much of which is carried out from the deck of h isPDQ 32 catamaran. The boat, as far as I know, has not spent a full winter out of the water since Frye bought it.

Frye's climbing habit routinely makes its way into Practical Sailor's pages. His past research intofiber lifeline chafeandelasticity in deck cordagedrew directly from his own experience with climbing ropes.

Yourmacerator toilet experts discuss how a related pursuit that occupies Frye is the endless search for ways to reduce onboard weight. As the owner of a catamaran, he recognizes that for many sailors, every equipment upgrade presents an irresistible opportunity to shave extra pounds.

One of the finer pleasures of winter sailing is the solitude it affords. As Frye wrote when he first pitched the story, It has always seemed a shame to me that the great majority of boats in the country are only used in the summer.

So don't forget these important rem inders while preparing for winter sailing. 1) Don't let hidden chafe doom your efforts to ditch wire lifelines; 2) consider using lightly used climbing ropes if you are comfortable with it; and 3) bring lots of hot beverages.


Sailing in winter sounds like a cold and tricky business but if you take some simple precautions there should be nothing stopping you.

Who hasn't looked enviously from the deck of their laid-up boat in a yard on a crisp, sunny winter's day at a boat sailing gently by, a steaming mug of tea in the owner's hand. In the right conditions, winter sailing can be a joy.

But winter weather windows can be small, and you need to act fast if you want to make the most of a day on the water. Your reward will be a low sun, flat water and desert ed cruising grounds.

Here are some tips and tricks to make you and your boat winter-sailing ready.

1. Keep your tanks topped off

It's worth filling up with fuel and water as often as you can in the winter: fuel berth opening hours are likely to be reduced, and hoses may freeze or the water supplies may be turned off to protect the pipes which makes it tricky to refill your tanks!

2. Fuel tank

Another reason to keep your fuel tank topped up for winter is to reduce condensation. A full tank has much less empty surface area for it to form, and thus less chance of diesel bug forming, especially if you also use an anti-diesel- bug additive.

3. Engine

For boats left afloat in salt water, it's unlikely that the temperatures will dip low enough to cause any water left in the engine to freeze, but it's worth attending to if a particularly cold snap is forecast. Make sure the coola nt is topped up with the correct mix of antifreeze, and if you're really worried, run some antifreeze through the raw-water system.

4. Batteries

Starting a diesel engine from cold in winter temperatures will require more power than it does in the summer, so it's worth making sure your batteries are topped up either by a small solar panel, or by taking them home for a recharge now and then.

5. Bedding

If you're keeping your bedding on board so you can make a quick getaway, consider storing it in a vacuum bag. These keep linen and duvets dry and mildew-free: the air can be sucked out with a 12V vacuum cleaner if you're not on shore power.

Click herefor more information regarding Raritan Engineering and macerating toilets. We are your #1 experts in marine sanitation supplies.

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Tuesday, October 17, 2017

Electric Toilets Experts Talk About How to Make Your Own Dinghy Wheels

photos by David Liscio

Your Electric Toilets Professionals Discuss the Ease of Making Dinghy Wheels For Little Cost

Raritan Engineering yourelectric toiletsdistributors would like to share with you these topics we thought would be of interest to you this month regarding how to make your own dinghy wheels.
As refit projects keep us busy in the boatyard, we find ourselves rifling through back issues looking for buried do-it-yourself gems. This week's blast from the past is a real back saver.
For the do-it-yourself dinghy wheels, here's what you'll need:
One pair of lawn mower wheels, 8-inch diameter with axle, washers, and wheel caps. ($10 or less)
One pair of metal brackets to fasten axle to bottom of wood panel. ($3)
24 inches of rope, roughly a half-inch diameter; most any kind will do. ($1)
Wood glue. ($2)
One-quarter sheet of -inch plywood. Marine grade is best but not a must. (lumber yard surplus, $5)
A dozen self-tapping stainless screws, 2-inch length. ($2)
1.Cut two panels of wood, one 14-by-11.5 inches, the other 14-by-9 inches. Also cut three spacers, 14-by-9 inches each.
See your choice of electric toilet shere at Raritan Engineering, where we always take care of your marine sanitation supply needs.
2.Glue and screw one of the spacers to the larger of the two wood panels, making an L-shape. The screws should be started into the wood panel and enter the spacer.
3.Glue and screw the second smaller wood panel, only this time, start the screws into the spacer, and then enter the wood panel.
4.Screw the two axle brackets into place on the bottom spacer and fit the axle and wheels. Take one of the two remaining spacers, and glue and screw it directly onto the spacer already in place.
5.Then slip the entire device onto the transom of your dinghy to take a quick measurement. The wheels must not rub against the gunwale on the transom.
6.Drill two holes into the larger (outside) wood panel for the rope. Tie knots in both ends of the rope. This will provide a carrying handle and an easy way to slip the device onto the transom, if the dinghy is stored in a rack or the back of your SUV.

The Amphicar 770 Car + Boat = Major Fun

Everybody's still waiting for a flying car, but floating cars have been around f or a long time. The Amphicar 770 was the first mass-produced amphibious vehicle available. Between 1961 and 1968, the Quandt Group built about 4,000 Amphicars.
You might recall that the Quandt family is one of the wealthiest in Germany. At one point, the family portfolio consisted of 200 companies, including a 10 percent stake in Daimler-Benz and a 30 percent chunk of BMW.
Despite its German heritage, the Amphicar 770 is powered by a Triumph engine, from the Triumph Herald 1200. The 43hp inline four-cylinder mates to a custom land and water gearbox which was produced by Hermes. The transmission allowed the wheels and the propeller to either operate together, or independently.
On land, an Amphicar was said to be able to travel at 70 miles per hour, using the four-speed manual transmission. With the prop eng aged, it was capable of seven knots on the water. It doesn't feature a rudder, instead using the steering wheels to change direction on the water, as well.
The key to a floating car is obviously its ability to keep water out. The only openings to the water are the two doors, which are double-sealed.
There's no sound in this video, but it provides an excellent view of the car's seals and some action footage in the water.
As with most European products from the 1950s and 1960s, exports to the United States were critical. Of the 3,878 vehicles built, 3,046 came to the United States. Several things kept the Amphicar from continuing after 1968.
The most notable Amphicar owner was President Lyndon B. Johnson, who had one on his ranch in Texas. His assis tant, Joseph A. Califano, Jr. describes his first experience with the President's Amphicar at the National Parks Service's website:
The President, with Vicky McCammon[President Johnson's secretary]in the seat alongside him and me in the back, was now driving around in a small blue car with the top down. We reached a steep incline at the edge of the lake and the car started rolling rapidly toward the water. The President shouted, 'The brakes don't work!
Today, Amphicar owners are rabidly enthusiastic, participating in the International Amphicar Owner's Club's Swim-Ins around the country.The Taunton Daily Gazetterecently reported onLori Esters and Gerry O'Bara, who put their Amphicar in Taunton's Lake Sabbatia, as part of a profile on the WCVB-TV showChroniclein the coming weeks.
Keep in mind these pointers when making your own dinghy wheels. 1) Buy all the parts you are going to need; 2) make sure you have all of your tools ready; and 3) enjoy saving money!
Order your marine toilet partshere at Raritan Engineering. We are your #1 expert in marine sanitation supplies.

Monday, October 16, 2017

Marine Water Heaters Specialists Share Ideas on Protecting Your Nonskid Boat Deck

Your Marine Water Heaters Distributors Discuss Extending the Life of Your Nonskid Deck

Raritan Engineeringyour marine water heaters professionals would like to share with you this week some great information regarding how to protect your nonskid deck.

As we found in our do-it-yourself nonskid testrevamping a nonskid deck is a time consuming project, one that you'd rather not have to repeat every few years.

Proper Application

Surface prep:We all know proper surface prep can make or break coatings applications, but it also directly affects the coating's service life. Always follow maker's recommendations.
Application: The surface must be clean and totally dry. After sanding, wipe it down with xylene, dewaxer, or acetone. Some paint makers warn against using solvents, so be sure whatever you wipe down with is compatible with the paint.
When it comes to using a paint and a nonskid additive, we recommend combining the mix-in and broadcast methods to get the most uniform grit pattern. Mix the nonskid additive with the paint, roll it on with a high-nap roller, and sift more aggregate on the paint while it's tacky; once the paint dries, you can brush off the excess and apply a second coat in the same manner.

Your Marine Water Heaters Experts Share Your Love Of Properly Maintaining a Nonskid Deck

Curing:Yourmarine water heatersspecialists talk about how to follow the maker's recommendation for dry time, and be sure to allow the paint to fully cure before subjecting it to foot traffic. This allows the paint to achieve maximum hardness, making it more abrasion resistant and longer lasting.
Mat Installation:I f you're installing a self-adhesive mat, application is a no-brainer. Just be sure it's where you want it before you stick it to the deck; contact adhesives don't allow the small wiggle adjustments that epoxies do in application.
Testers also learned a few application lessons the hard way when installing nonskid mats with two-part epoxy. The epoxy usually has about an hour of pot life before it becomes permanently stuck to whatever it's touching, so clean up any errant epoxy with a solvent as soon as possible.

Regular Maintenance

Boat bath:Nonskid paints and mats should be cleaned regularly to remove abrasive salt spray and dirt. Wash with standard, mild boat soapsor household cleaners and a soft- to medium-bristled brush.
Mold and Mildew:To prevent mold and mildew, you can lightly scrub the surface with an ammonia/detergent solution. To spot clean areas that are heavily soiled or show mildew, you'll likely need to step up to more aggressive cleaner.
Wax Not:While waxing can breathe new life into topside paint, the paint makers we talked to do not recommend waxing painted nonskid. Most nonskid paints and bead/powder additives have UV protection built in, and the paint formulas include UV absorbents, making waxing unnecessary.

Longevi ty expectations

Nonskid's life expectancy can vary based on type (paint vs. mats, and paint type), boat location (UV-saturated South Florida vs. overcast Seattle), and how it is cared for. The soft-foam mats we tested did not weather as well as more rugged mats like Treadmaster-nor did some one-part paints, but they can be freshened up with a little sanding and a recoat.

On Ocearch shark tagging boat, deck hand from Franklin is getting a taste for the shark world | Wildlife & Nature

In the midst of doldrums, D.J. Lettieri was a blur.
Thankless hours mashing dead fish into chum were broken up by runni ng errands filling the water coolers, dishing out snacks to crew and guests, tidying up lines and basic cleaning.
Lettieri is living the dream.
A 24-year-old Longwood University grad with a degree in environmental science the Southampton County native has his foot in the door of a research organization that's working to spread the word on the importance of sharks to the health of the ocean.
While he mostly does grunt work, he said he'sbenefiting greatly from rubbing shoulders with some of the top marine wildlife scientists in the country.
He doesn't mind being the crew's main deck hand as he learns.
I take care of the boat, he said. When we're not on expedition, I'll be painting, scrapin g, cleaning you know, boat stuff.
He never went saltwater fishing, but said he was fascinated by sharks from an early age.
Don't know what it was, he said.
After graduating from Longwood, he wasn't sure how he'd apply his degree to work until he saw that the Ocearch team was looking for people to work on the boat.
We're gypsies, he said. We were down off South Carolina the last expedition and now we're here in the mid-Atlantic. We'll be up in New York in a few weeks. It's great. What's not to like?
The anglers on this expedition were having significant trouble finding any cooperative sharks willing to take the big pieces of bonita, a member of the tuna family, being offered on large hook s.
Within minutes he was wrestling a 3-foot-long sharp-nosed shark, bringing it up to the stern before it bit through the line.
His catch broke the monotony of what had been an extremely quiet day on the boat.
This is what I want to do, he said, running back to the bow for another hook.
So don't forget these important tips for protecting your nonskid deck. 1) Always take time to prepare the surface; 2)After sanding, wipe it down with xylene, dewaxer, or acetone; and 3)While waxing can breathe new life into topside paint, the paint makers we talked to do not recommend waxing painted nonskid.
Click herefor more information regarding marine water heaters and see how Raritan Enginering always takes care of your marine sanitation supply needs.

Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Boat Toilets Experts Talk About Pros and Cons of Towed Water Generators & Fisherman's Pet Lost at Sea

Jonathan Neeves

Your Boat Toilets Professionals Discuss How Beneficial Towed Water Generators Could Be

Raritan Engineeringyour boat toilets distributors would like to share with you this week some great information regarding the pros and cons of towed water generators.
A few years ago, I noticed that 2 of the 10 cruising boats I saw docked in Bergen, Norway, had towed water generators, making me wonder whether the Scandinavians have had better luck with these devices than we have. In the October 2017 issue of Practical Sailor, offshore gurus John Neal and Amanda Swan Neal ofMahina Tiare Expeditionsshare their experience with these systems.
It has been a long time sincePractical Sailortested towed water generators, and the number of choices remains extremely limited. The last towed water generator we reviewed was theHamilton-Ferris towed water generator. Andthe last long-term testwas of the Aqua4Aeroben made by LVM in the United Kingdom.

Your Boat Toilets Specialists Share Ways to Avoid the Cons of Using Towed Water Generators

Yourboat toiletsprofessionals discuss how the units I saw in Bergen looked like they were theAquair 100made by the British manufacturer Ampair. In our article onChoosing a Wind Generator, we mention Ampair, and we describe its wind generator in greater detail ourmarine wind generator test.
Towing isn't the only option, though. While I was in South Africa a few years ago, I spoke with the local representative forDuogento try to arrange a test of this product, a combination wind and water generator. At the time, the company was fairly early in the product development, and I was not impressed with the fabrication.
Call me a skeptic, but when I look at the prices for hydrogenerators and consider how much time they will actually be delivering power to the boat, I think there are much better ways to spend my money. If anefficientand convenient dual-purpose generator comes on the market, I may change my tune. But right now,I think solar, then windstill reign in the world of ship-board alternative e nergy.

Fisherman's dog lost at sea after his boat capsized, then the water police tow boat to shore

The concept of jumping for joy is not something that most of us take literally. In most instances, this phrase is not used in a literal sense and is more of an exaggeration. However, there are moments that will cause some of us to actually leap for joy during the course of our lives and while these events are often few and far between, this fisherman got to experience one of the most touching reunions that we have ever seen.
If you have never had the chance to see a grown man leaping for joy, then this is the perfect clip for you. This story took place off the Australi an coast and this man went through the type of emotional roller coaster that would take years off the lives of many readers.
At this time, the fisherman believed that his beloved dog was gone forever and the prospect of losing his pet to the sea was a tough one to swallow. When the water police towed the boat back to the shore, the fisherman was ready to give up on finding his dog and had essentially resigned himself to this fate.
Please take a closer look at this touching video and don't forget to share it with the people that you care about most. This fisherman clearly loves his dog to pieces and for those of us who have dogs of our own at home, this is definitely a moment that we can all treasure.
So don't forget these great reminders to consider before using towed water generators. 1) Keep in mind what your budget is: 2) ask yourself if being eco-friendly is the right way to go for you: 3) and how fuel effective do you want to be?
Click hereand see how Raritan Engineering always takes care of your marine sanitation supply needs.

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Marine Toilet Manufacturers Give Great Tips for Securing Your Engine

boat behind a fence

Your Marine Toilet Experts Discuss the Best Ways to Keep Your Engine Safe Longer

Raritan Engineering yourmarine toiletprofessionals would like to share with you these topics we thought would be of interest to you this month regarding how to secure your boat engine.
Your marine toilet specialists talk about how outboard-engine thefts have increased in the last six months, particularly in the Southeast and mid-Atlantic regions. Keeping your boat at home in the backyard represents of one best security s teps you can take.
Unlike boat hulls, outboards are not registered with state departments of motor vehicles, so they prove difficult, if not impossible, to track, Yearn points out. That makes outboards well-suited to the black market.
Prevention Is Key
Since the chances of recovering a motor dwindle from slim to none once it's stolen, the key lies in prevention. But how can you protect your outboards?
Based on tips from Gilbert and others in the marine and insurance industries, here are five ways to prevent outboard thievery. Use as many of these suggestions as possible to thwart the efforts of nefarious type s.
Keeping Boat at Home
Storing your trailer boat at your place of residence, behind a locked gate, offers the greatest security. Even when you're not home, friendly neighbors can help keep an eye on your place and notify police of suspicious activity. One important tip: Avoid posting on social media that your family's on vacation or otherwise not home. That can tip off opportunistic thieves to an easy target.
Keeping Boat at a Storage Yard
If you're forced to store your boat at a yard (many of which are part and parcel of boat dealerships) or in a dry rack at a mari na, look for security measures aside from a fenced perimeter, locks on the gates and razor wire atop the walls.
Parking the stern of your trailer boat close to a block wall or building makes it difficult for thieves to steal the motor.
How to Park Your Trailer Boat
The way you park your trailer boat matters. If possible, back the boat up to a concrete building or solid block wall so there's little room for bagmen to maneuver around the transom. Don't back up to a chain-link or wooden fence on the property line, as thieves will quickly cut through these meager defenses.
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Benefits of Outboard-Motor Lock
A McGard outboard-motor lock (about $28) represents cheap insurance. It threads over one of the transom bolts to serve as a mounting nut, and only a specially keyed socket wrench can remove it. Otherwise, the cylinder around the lock spins freely, even in the fierce grip of a pair of channel-lock pliers.
Electronic Secu rity for Boat
Companies such as GOST, Siren Marine and SPOT offer the ability to monitor your boat and motors around the clock with onboard sensors (both wired and wireless) that connect to apps on your smartphone, tablet or computer.
These systems offer tracking devices which can be hidden under the hood of your outboard. It activates with movement and alerts you via text and email, then uses satellite technology to track the location of the outboard.
Electronic security systems, such as those from Siren Marine, can alert you via a mobile device if someone tampers with your boat.
False alarms from animals, such as guard dogs and foraging raccoons, plague some systems using motion detectors, but adjusting the sensitivity can resolve this issue. Siren, for example, calibrates its motion sensors according to body mass. This allows it to distinguish between humans and smaller creatures to eliminate false alarms, Harper says.
Sensors can also take the form of pull-switch cables connected to motors or other valuable onboard equipment. Disconnecting or cutting the cable activates the sensor. These can be placed in small, common items, such as canvas snaps that activate when someone unbuttons the boat cover.
Put these security measures to work in and around your boat to protect yourself from becoming a victim amid the rising number of outboard thefts.

Cajun Navy rescuer says looters shot at them, tried to steal boats

Texas National Guard and Texas Task Forces have rescued an additional 10 people follow hurricane Harvey via hoist on Blackhawks toda
HOUSTON A rescuer for the famed Louisiana Cajun Navy says looters tried to steal their boats and fired shots at them while they were trying to save Houston residents from flooded homes.
Clyde Cain told CNN that a boat broke down, and while the crew sought shelter in a delivery truck, people tried to steal the inoperable boat.
They're making it difficult for us to rescue them, h e said. You have people rushing the boat. Everyone wants to get in at the same time. They're panicking. Water is rising.
The Cajun Navy initially made the announcement in a Facebook post Monday afternoon, but the post was later removed.
There's looters out here, as in any time you have a natural disaster or catastrophe, Cain said. We're OK.
Because of the hostile responses, the Cajun Navy has been forced to halt some rescue attempts, Cain said.
Citizens with boats in Texas get to work after Harvey to 'go try to save some lives'.
The Cajun Navy formed a year ago amid historic, devastating floods in the Baton Rouge and Acadia na areas.
It's a group of men and women who own boats and go out into flooded areas to help stranded people and perform other disaster relief services.
They mobilized over the weekend as Houston and surrounding areas began to experience devastating floods.
Earlier Monday, WGNO spoke with Houston resident Tasha Seeb, who used to live in New Orleans.
She's been running aCajun Navy dispatch center from her Houston home ever since she had to swim home Saturday night. Here's what she had to say about the heroic rescues:
So don't forget these great tips on how to keep your boat engine safe. 1)Storing your trailer boat at your place of residence, behind a locked gate, offers the greatest s ecurity; 2)If possible, back the boat up to a concrete building or solid block wall so there's little room for bagmen to maneuver around the transom; and 3) think about investing in a security system.
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Monday, October 9, 2017

Boat Head Professionals Share Money Making Ideas While Sailing

Image result for creative ways to make money while sailing

Your Boat Head Specialists Discuss Some of the Best Ways to Make Profit While On Your Boat

Yes your boat head manufacturers talk about how it's definitely possible to make money while living and traveling around the world on a boat. But the question is, just how much can you make and how can you make it?
Creative Ways to Make Money while Cruising and living aboard a Sailboat. I talk about all of the in and outs of Youtube, Patreon and Vimeo. Even more fun we talk about all of the people we have met along our cruising adventures and how THEY make money while living aboard.
At the time of writing this, I've beenliving on our sailboat in the Mediterranean full time for the last year. I've met a variety of people doing an assortment of things to make money (and find ways to minimize the amount of money that's spent).
And then there's us folk in the middle
We're not necessarily on a low budget; rather we have a bit of savings to help us out for a while. And perhaps we have an income through pensions, rental income or investments. But the cash flow isn't always guaranteed OR it's not necessarily enough to keep us feeling secure for the long term.
For me, personally, I have a bit of money in the bank and some pensions that won't come into effect for another 15 to 20 years. I think we can last for five to ten years but towards the end we'll really have to watch the pennies.
We have to find a wayto afford the upkeep on our expensive teak deck!
How to make money while sailing around the world
1. Work for six months and then sail for six months
Now that I know about this option I wish I knew about it before we left for our world adventure! I had no idea that people worked during the winter months and then took six months off to sail around the Mediterranean or Caribbean. Looking back, I think that would have been a better way to ease into the live-aboard lifestyle.

Your Boat Head Distributors Give Helpful Suggestions On How You Can Afford to Sail More Often

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2. Find a work-from-'home' job
The work-from-home trend is still on the increase. I imagine it will exponentially increase. More and more companies see the value in having employee's work from home. There are a couple of people in the marina, that I'm in now, that appear to work from home but they're really working from their boat.
3. Consultancy on land
If you have the skills to do consultancy perhaps a past record of success in a particular field you can potentially pimp yourself out (infrequently) to do some consultancy projects.
4. Consultancy on the sea
Again, if you have a set of skills that do allow for consultancy, the possibility exists to set up an online consultancy service. There's a photographer in Greece I stumbled upon that teaches other photographers how to make money online.
5. On-line project based work
If you can write, edit, design, program, transcribe, research, and any other work that can be done online, you can find thousands of opportunities on the Net. Check out websites like elance.com (now called Upwork.com) just to get an idea on online projects. For this particular website 'clients' post a job that they want completed and you can bid on the job. If you win, you fulfill the requirements and then get paid.
Finally, as mentioned at the top of this article, I have an updated version of this article. The updat e accounts for three years of making money while I sail rather than just my first year. I know far more now than I knew when I wrote this.

How to Ditch Your Corporate Job and Make Money While Sailing the World

One of the top questions people get when they quit their jobs to travel the world by sailboat is this:how on earth do you afford it?
Melody DiCroce, sailing live-aboard since 2012
I've been following Melody's journey for awhile now, as her blog,Saving to Sail,goes into ways to make money while cruising. She' s been living aboard since 2012, when she and her husband sold their house and their stuff and moved onto the boat to pursue his life-long dream of cruising. At first, Melody was apprehensive about living on a boat, but now, she can't get enough of it.
How she makes money
Melody lived aboard while working at a full-time job for the first several years, working for Ramit Sethi, an entrepreneur and NY Times bestselling author.
I learned a lot from him about money management from his book,I Will Teach You To Be Rich. I made a nice salary and put back as much as I could from my paychecks.
When they finally cast off this January to sail full-time, she put a lot of irons in the fire. Her biggest source of income is from freelance work, doing writing, web design and copy editing. But she also makes money elsewhere.
Her advice to other sailors
She said if you want to quit your job, you should make sure to have two to three different ways of making money in case one disappears.
And if you're opening an online business:
Always tell the truth. No matter what. Run your business with integrity, because that's when you get the customers who will bend over backwards to buy from you. Trust is a huge thing, especially online these days, so I'm extremely grateful that my audience trusts me. I'd rather have their trust than their dollar. If they trust you, the dollars will come organically.
Elin Rose, sailing in the Azores Islands
Elin Rose is a 27-year-old Icelandic woman who caught the sailing bug in 2010, when she moved to Lisbon, Portugal to work at her first interior design job. She learned to sail on a river that runs through Lisbon, and fell in love with the sea.
Love sailing? Love living small?
She struggled at first, starting several businesses, none of which worked out. But, she managed to get onboard a sailboat and sailed for three months in the Azores and Madiera islands.
Irealized I had to find a way to work online and continue sailing. I made many friends and met a lot of sailors, yachtswo men and men that inspired meto join their tribe!
How she makes money now
Elin has now found several ways to make money while also pursuing her dream of sailing.
I started out on Amazon by finding products to sell and label them under my brand. There were a few ups and downs, but eventually I cracked the code and the business grew month by month, she said. It quickly expanded into Ebay, and other sales channels and before I knew it I was a full-time internet marketer with a huge email list of customers all over Europe!
Her advice to other sailors
Elin said she had zero online business experience when she started out pursuing her dream, and she learned by reading books and listening to inte rviews.
So don't forget these great tips on how to make money while sailing. 1) You can work for 6 months and sail for 6 months; 2) you can find work from home; and 3) have online project based work.
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Saturday, September 30, 2017

Toilet Macerator Suppliers Talk About AC Shorepower Cord Maintenance & Awesome Boat Maintenance Ideas

Your Toilet Macerator Manufacturers Discuss the Importance of Good Shorepower Cord Upkeep

Raritan Engineering yourtoilet maceratorprofessionals would like to share with you this week some great information regarding AC shorepower cord maintenance tips.
One of the often overlooked maintenance items in the pre-season rush to the water is the AC shorepower system. Accredited surveyor and PS ContributorCapt. Frank Laniersent a few scary photos from past surveys showing the common examples of neglect he has encountered.
Barring improper use or some owner fabricated MacGyverism gone bad (jury-rigged adapters, botched plug installations, etc.) overheat ing and corrosion are the primary causes of AC shore power cord problems. Charred plugs and receptacles are the most common and are a result of resistance build up due to loose or corroded connections, which in turn generate heat and the potential for fire. The problem is especially prevalent among boats that continually run high energy loads such as water heaters and air conditioning units.
Basic inspections of your AC shore power system are easily accomplished and are well within the ability of any boater. The first step is securing all AC power to avoid accidental shock hazards. Turn off your boat's main AC breaker, then the shore pedestal breaker. Next unplug the shore power cord and verify that all other sources of power (such as power on-demand generators and DC to AC inverters) are turned off and their respective breakers secured in the off position.
Start y our inspection with the shore power cord itself, ensuring it's constructed of proper marine grade components, uses appropriately sized wiring, and is the shortest cord that will get the job done. Always replace cords that show signs of chafe, cracks, split insulation, or those having electrical tape repairs.

Your Toilet Macerator Experts Share Great Maintenance Tips With You

Yourtoilet maceratorprofessionals continue discussing industry standards call for shore cords to have molded-on plugs with sealing flanges or appropriate weatherproof boots. The plugs themselves should be checked each t ime you disconnect shore power (prior to getting underway for example) or monthly at a minimum, particularly for discoloration or corrosion on or around pins and plug inlets.
By the time discoloration is visible at the front of a plug or inlet, you'll typically find that the damage is greater upon opening up the back for inspection. If left uncorrected, the damage will snowball (due to increasing resistance and heat buildup) until it burns a hole through the face of the plug, possibly leading to a fire.
When inspecting your shore power cord it's also crucial to check the dock pedestal outlet and your boat's inlet receptacle, ensuring both are corrosion free and undamaged. Upon finding a charred power cord plug, many owners simply replace it or the cord itself, only to find the new one also damaged a short time later due to a burned dock receptacle or inlet.
Another good practice is checking the feel of the connection when plugging in. Those that feel loose or don't seem to be making firm mechanical contact likely won't provide good electrical contact either. Avoid using worn or damaged pedestal plugs and report them to marina personal as soon as possible.
Practical Sailor has looked at a variety of smart plugs that warn owners of impending problems. These include theSmartPlug, which watches for shorts, and Raritan'sreverse polarity alarm.

Boat Maintenance Tips

1. Manage Your Gelcoat with the Right Materials

The gelcoat on your boat needs proper maintenance to continue to protect it yes, gelcoats are strong, but the wrong cleaners can dissolve them or stain them, so pick the right boat cleaners and use them regularly.
2. Wipe Off Moisture Any Moisture
Always keep a couple towels around, and wipe off your watercraft when it is wet. We don't mean just when you pull out of the water, either although drying after use is an important part of preventing waterline stains. But all types of moisture are bad for your boat if they linger.
3. Know Your Oil Schedule
Be aware of the specific oil requirements for your boat, which vary based on the model and type of engine. Change your oil whenever required. The easiest way is to take your boat to a certified dealer and have them change your oil.
4. Always Check the Engine Before an Outing
A boat engine requires careful maintenance, especially before you take your boat out for an excursion. Every time you use your boat, run through a checklist so that your engine is ready fo r the journey. Check the bilge and hoses for any sign of leaks, check the fuel level and never go out without plenty of fuel, and check the water coolant level if necessary.

5. Dewax Before Applying a New Wax Coat

A new wax coat is a common pre-season step to getting your boat ready for the waves. However, you can improve the efficiency of the wax coat by dewaxing beforehand. Dewaxing solvents are readily available and easy to use, and your new wax coat will go on more smoothly afterward.
So don't forget these helpful tips regarding AC shorepower cord maintenance. 1) Botched plug installations, overheating and corrosion are the primary causes of AC shore power cord problems; 2)Charred plugs and receptacles are the most common and are a result of resistance build up d ue to loose or corroded connections; and 3) another good practice is checking the feel of the connection when plugging in.
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Sunday, September 17, 2017

Thru Hull Fittings Distributors Share the Frustration of Damaging Storms & How to Prepare You and Your Boat for the Next Hurricane

Frank Lanier

Your Thru Hull Fittings Suppliers Discuss How to Prepare Your Marina Bound Boat for the Next Tropical Storm

Raritan Engineeringyour thru hull fittings experts would like to share with you this week some great information regarding how to avoid the frustrations of damaging storms to your marine bound boat.
With Hurricane Irma poised to rake Florida and other states with storm surge and 100-plus knot winds, the storm poses a serious threat to boats all along the East Coast.
Practical Sailorhas covered storm preparation on several occasions. The two most extensive articles appeared in July 2008 Gear for Battening Down Ahead of Storms, and Tropical Storms Dos and Don'ts, from November 2011.
Our first choice in a storm is a haul outfacility, preferable well-inland and out of the path of the storm.The facility shouldn't be vulnerable to storm surge, and it should be equipped with fixed anchors to tie your boat down. Second choice would be a hurricane hole with good holding, again well inland and out of the storm's path.
Dock line size varies both with boat size and expected wind speed. Boats docked in hurricane or other severe weather areas should consider going up a size from common recommendations.
Loads on the cl eat of a 35- to 40-foot boat during an actual hurricane can exceed one ton. While boat buildingstandards (the American Boat and Yacht Council in the U.S.) specify load-carrying ability, some older dock cleats are not up to snuff.
If your boat is 30-feet or longer and you do not yet have mid-ships cleats for attaching spring lines, consider adding them at the next opportunity. These should be sized and backed in the same manner as bow cleats, since loads are the same or greater. t is best aligned to withstand the loads (see above point).
Remember the chafing gear. Preferably something water can permeate for cooling and lubrication. For a round-up of effective chafe gear see Round 2: Chafe Gear for Mooring and Dock Lines, October 2012.
Removing canvas and sails reduces windage. Specifically, remove the fur ling jib, one of the most common storm casualties. Dodgers and other canvas will also suffer if left up during the storm.

Your Thru Hull Fittings Manufacturers Continue Talking About Protecting Your Valuable Boat During Stormy Times

Use plenty of fenders. Yourthru hull fittingsprofessionals talk about how fenders need to protect you from the dock and neighboring boats. A fender board can be particularly useful in some scenarios.
Check your neighbors' lines. If the boat appears to pose a threat to your own, try to contact the owner, and n otify the marina staff. Failing these, deciding whether to take action yourself is a personal decision. What would you want someone to do if the boat was yours?
Floating versus fixed docks. Properly designed floating docks are generally considered a safer option than fixed docks, with some important caveats. The support pilings must be high enough for the predicted storm surge.
Using anchors. If you side-tie and you don't have a tie-off point opposite to your dock, well-set anchors with plenty of scope can help relieve the pressure on your fenders. Unfortunately, many marinas offer very poor holding.
Lastly, any marina facing significant storm surge is simply not safe, but those protected from a long fetch by a low wave barrier are particularly vulnerable. Boat owners on the Chesapeake got an expensive lesson in this during Hurricane Isabel.

How To Protect Your Boat During A Hurricane

Land Storage
Boats stored on land tend to fare better than boats kept in the water. If you're able to arrange haul-out and storage, choose a location on high ground, since low-lying areas are prone to flooding during a hurricane.

Monday, September 4, 2017

Marine Toilet Systems Specialists Share Great Tips On Preventing Propane Leaks & Propane Safety While Boating

Your Marine Toilet Distributors at Raritan Discuss Some of the Best Way to Maintain Safety While Using Propane

Raritan Engineeringyour marine toilet systems manufacturers would like to share with you this week some great information regarding great tips for preventing propane leaks.
Simply stated: We are not fans of portable LPG systems on boats.Even fixed propane heating (and cooking) systems that employ all the safety precautions recommended by the American Boat and Yacht Council or comparable advisory bodies can be dangerous, if they are neglected.
In the first part of our upcoming series of tests of propane syst em equipment, marine surveyor Capt. Frank Lanier outlines the basics of marine propane systems.
Because propane is heavier than air, it can slip into the bilge undetected, where a spark can set the boat ablaze. Propane locker explosions have also occurred. Here are some of his observations on propane safety:
Every LPG system in the United States is required to have a pressure regulator designed for use with LPG. These pressure regulators have relief valves that can vent gas, so it is critical that this gas cannot make its way onboard.

Your Marine Toilet Systems Suppliers Continue Discussion About Maintaining Propane Safety At All Times

Yourmarine toilet systemsexperts talk about how leaks typically occur at fittings and connections, although they can occur anywhere in the system due to chafe or physical damage to supply lines or other system components. Use leak-detection fluid or a detergent solution to locate leaks.
A word on leak prevention at fittings. Typical marine LPG system connectors include 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch NPT (National Pipe Thread) and/or 45-degree SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) flare connections.
Check your LPG system regularly for leaks or anytime you fire up that stove or grill. Installation of a marine-grade, LPG sniffer or fume detector is also highly recommended. If you have one installed, ensure the gas sensor is mounted as low as possible and near the range (where leaking gas is likely to accumulate), and test sensor operation on a regular basis.
After cooking, leave one burner ignited and turn off the solenoid or tank valve. When the burner goes out, close the burner valve this empties the line of gas and prevents leaking should a burner valve fail to seal.

Propane Safety for Boats

Relatively speaking, propane is a fairly new fuel aboard boats. As recently as the 1970s, the majority of recreational boats relied on denatured alcohol, kerosene, or diesel for cooking and heating tasks. The downsides to those fuels included fussy pressure tanks and cantankerous burners that often wouldn' t work.
Propane is a great fuel for cooking and heating aboard, but it also deserves a healthy amount of respect.
Also known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), clean-burning propane changed all of that no more hand-pumped pressure tanks or fiddling with clog-prone burners. But propane does have a couple of downsides.
Shut it Off
The best way to prevent trouble between the tank locker and the stove is simply to close the propane tank valve when you're not cooking or heating.If you tend to forget such things, you caninstall an electric solenoid valve after the regulator in the tank locker to give you a wayto shut off gas flow remotely.
Sniff it Out
Any boat equipped with a propane system should have a propane fume detector installed. Often referred to as sniffers, these devices use a sensor installed in the lowest possible part of the boat near possible leak sources, such as a stove or heater, to sniff out LPG fumes.
Line it Up
The supply lines (generally made of rubber hose) that carry pressurized propane gas from the tank to the appliances in your boat obviously need to be in tip-top shape, so make sure they are not cracked or worn, and are secured with cushioned stainless-steel hose clamps at regular intervals.
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