Ask the Expert

NIGEL BARRON tackles the big questions about one of the popular off-season upgrades: bow thrusters.

Dispatch from paradise: NIGEL BARRON on successfully crossing the Pacific and the finish line aboard Zvi to cap off the Transpac 2021 race.

NIGEL BARRON recounts the “practice run” that was the delivery of Zvi to Los Angeles in anticipation of the July 17th start of Transpac 2021.

I recently heard from a reader asking about fuel: With the price of fuel as low as it is, is now a good time to fill up the tanks? As …

Like everyone, my plans of late have changed pretty dramatically over the last month. I don’t recall my sailing calendar ever being this empty. The Pacific Northwest Offshore (formerly Oregon …

In last month’s Northwest Yachting, we addressed the issue about purchasing a boat from out of state and having it moved. Daniel J. wrote in and asked about hiring a …

In the boatyard, it’s best to have broad knowledge, and when it gets to details, know whom to ask. Much like in sailing, I’ve been fortunate to surround myself with …

The old adage “out of sight, out of mind” never rang truer than when thinking about the bottoms of our boats. But the fact is, bottom neglect can have serious …

“What happened to fun? Our insurance doesn’t cover it!” – Charles M. Schulz, The Complete Peanuts, Vol. 16: 1981-1982 If you’re like me, you’re starting the new decade by reflecting …

“Those who do not want to imitate anything, produce nothing.” – Salvador Dalí When aboard with time to reflect (i.e., not in a regatta, foul seas, driving, etc.), I often …

“Ninety-nine percent of all failures come from people who have a habit of making excuses.” — George Washington Carver For boaters with a holding tank, the ritual of pumping out …

“Semper Paratus.” -Latin phrase meaning “Always Ready” and official motto of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary This month we continue with the second part of our interview with US Coast …