Boat Bathroom (AKA Marine Head) There is possibly fewer more important systems on a sailboat than the bathroom. In nautical terms it is the "Marine Head." Modern marine heads are simple to operate but to be a competent sailor, one should know how they work so that it can be repaired in the event that... Continue Reading →
We all know that keeping watch for other vessels and “objects” in the water is one of the basic requirements of good seamanship, whether you’re out on the lake, bay, coastal cruising or making a trans-Atlantic passage. It’s my 2nd Rule of Sailing, “Don’t hit anything!” (1st Rule: Keep everyone on the boat!). For centuries... Continue Reading →
"There is no rope on a boat, only line." This is a fun phrase often heard by new sailors but it is only partly true. Rope is cordage that has not yet been given a job. Once you rig it to do something, it is considered line and usually given a specific name. Any rigging... Continue Reading →
New for summer is a lighter waterproof line suitable for inshore cruising adventures. Why do you need a coat in the summer you ask? Well, what you wear when you sail really matters, and it is always cooler on the water. Also, summer brings those familiar squalls. This lighter layer will be comfortable for you... Continue Reading →
Layering is key when sailing. You have to have the right number and type of layers to be comfortable, right down to your skivvies. None of that will matter much though if it gets soaked in a squall or from hiking out while splashing through cold waves. In your sailing clothing kit bag, you need... Continue Reading →
Women who feel at home on the water are each unique, yet all require the same warmth and comfort from their kit. Gear need not be restrictive in order to keep you warm. Rooster has been working tirelessly to innovate a range of kit for women who live to sail, surf, paddle, and ride, completely... Continue Reading →
Before sailing, checking the weather forecast is an absolute must for any good sailor. If you just ask Alexa to tell you what the weather is, you don't usually get the most important piece of information you need though, which is wind information. If you are just going for a daysail or even a coastal... Continue Reading →
Like so many other sports, there is no substitute for having the right gear. And just like so many other sports, kids grow up and out of their expensive gear quickly. Most manufacturers offer reduced pricing on their junior apparel, but let's talk just a minute about why this is so important. I think we... Continue Reading →
Whether you are cruising, racing big boats or dinghies, what you wear on your feet matters. As a US Sailing Instructor, our beginning classes require close-toed shoes. If you've ever stepped on a sailboat you probably already know why - Boats BITE! Deck fittings, winches, fairleads all seem to reach out and grab for toes and... Continue Reading →
It may come as no surprise that here at Desert Wind Sailboats we do a lot of warm (hot) weather sailing. The sailing clothing you choose for warmer climes is just as important as the layers you choose for the cold. The sun and the spray have no mercy in the heat of summer. Here... Continue Reading →
Desert Wind Sailing 