<![CDATA[Cruisers & Sailing Forums]]> https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/ Cruisers Forum is an online forum community of cruisers from around the world! en Tue, 09 Jun 2026 01:57:59 GMT vBulletin 60 https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/images/misc/rss.jpg <![CDATA[Cruisers & Sailing Forums]]> https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/ Property Management While Cruising https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f92/property-management-while-cruising-300617.html Tue, 09 Jun 2026 01:14:52 GMT My name is Eric, and my wife and I are about 8-months away from beginning several years of sailing. We have.a home in Chicago that we intended to... My name is Eric, and my wife and I are about 8-months away from beginning several years of sailing. We have.a home in Chicago that we intended to keep while we are sailing. We do not plan on renting the home, but would rather prefer hire someone to manage the property while we are gone. This would be routine landscaping, monitoring the house for issues, and response if needed, and cleaning prior to our return.
How have people managed homes while away cruising? Are there companies that provide that service? We intend to sail for 2-3 months, and then return home for a few weeks to a month, and simply continue that routine.
Cheers, eric ]]> Families, Kids and Pets Afloat enjaku https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f92/property-management-while-cruising-300617.html Transom Actuator https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f55/transom-actuator-300616.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:53:14 GMT Hi.

First post here. I have a'13 Oceanis 41. I feel like a victim of the poor drainage in the area where the transom actuator lives. My actuator stopped actuating. The MSRP for a new unit was $ 1,800. I wasn't aware how the cable interfaced with the actuator so I accidentally destroyed the cable plug. In the US, add another $800 for the box and all of the connectors. I tried to find a replacement, but that's basically a needle in a haystack. I therefore took the plunge and defied the manufacturer's instructions, opening up the unit. Inside, there was a fair amount of corrosion. The motor can only be serviced by removing it completely from the aluminum housing. The motor is easily mobilized by removing two torx bolts. The real problem comes in with the two-spade connectors. These connectors can be pushed off easily, but the issue is reinstallation. They install from the back to the front. It took a custom tool and lots of patience, but I got both back on. Greased everything as I went and was able to save the gasket for the final sealing of the body. The other problem was finding another cable (with the correct plug). Thanks to YachtSupply 24, I was able to source a brand new plug from LINAK for only $90. Sounds like a lot and it is ($31 for the plug, shipping, and tariffs), but a heck of a lot cheaper than $800. Anyway, after installation of the new cable and the actuator back in the boat, it works like a charm. I don't usually take the time to share projects, but this really involved quite a bit of research and lots of time and effort.

Here are some pics:
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]]> Culpyy https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f55/transom-actuator-300616.html Splicing a Mast in Florida https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f116/splicing-a-mast-in-florida-300615.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:41:37 GMT I had to cut my aluminum mast to have it shipped. There was no other way. I know what I have to do, but struggling to find someone to do it. I'll rivet it myself if I have to, but bending the inner sleeve needs a proper bender robot.
Does anyone know someone who does this type of thing? It's not a big $ fix, but hard to find the person willing to take it on (plenty of metal workers all around but each of them have declined because it's a small job).
Thanks! ]]> ooberman https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f116/splicing-a-mast-in-florida-300615.html First time to St. Vincent and The Grenadines https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f19/first-time-to-st-vincent-and-the-grenadines-300614.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:29:43 GMT I am working on a sail plan for January 2027. I will be doing 9 days or so on a Leopard 46 or Lagoon 450. I have over 2000nm sailing so far but this... I am working on a sail plan for January 2027. I will be doing 9 days or so on a Leopard 46 or Lagoon 450. I have over 2000nm sailing so far but this will be my first time to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I am an avid fisherman and will be bringing gear to troll and deep drop so any locations greatly appreciated. I also love to dive so will hoping to anchor up and rent gear where I can to dive. Any and all local knowledge gratefully accepted, also looking for day hikes with my wife. ]]> dbergman https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f19/first-time-to-st-vincent-and-the-grenadines-300614.html GPSMap internal battery https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f13/gpsmap-internal-battery-300613.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 21:28:08 GMT I have a Garmin GPSMap 498 with a bad internal battery. I ordered a Varta MC614 based on Google but found upon disassembly that that battery isn’t... I have a Garmin GPSMap 498 with a bad internal battery. I ordered a Varta MC614 based on Google but found upon disassembly that that battery isn’t right. Too small and the pins are too close together. Another search suggested ML614 or ML621, but those are incorrect also.
Anyone know the correct battery or recognize this one? I don’t see any markings.
Thanks
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]]> Marine Electronics sanibel sailor https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f13/gpsmap-internal-battery-300613.html Source of Chart Symbols? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f134/source-of-chart-symbols-300612.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 20:05:54 GMT I am wondering the source of the chart symbols OpenCPN uses in chartsymbols.xml, rastersymbols-day.png, etc.? Did early developers hand create all... I am wondering the source of the chart symbols OpenCPN uses in chartsymbols.xml, rastersymbols-day.png, etc.? Did early developers hand create all those symbols? Wow! if that is the case. Or did they find a free source of them somewhere? ]]> OpenCPN wholybee https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f134/source-of-chart-symbols-300612.html UV protection for roller furling headsail? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f116/uv-protection-for-roller-furling-headsail-300611.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 18:44:27 GMT I'm just finishing a SailRite kit for a new genoa on my boat. I've tested the sail, and I like it.

It's time to add some UV protection, but- It sails SO well in nice winds without the extra weight of the protective cover. I run a marine canvas shop & have access to about everything- I'm just having trouble sewing heavy Sunbrella on to my new sail.

The options I'm aware of are-
Sunbrella. It lasts about 10 years, but it is heavier than my sail cloth. I do care about light wind performance.

Lighter weight polyesters, like Odyessy. 3 year warranty, but much lighter.

303 Aerospace Protectant. I don't know how (or if) this might work. It is certainly lighter than the other options.

What am I missing? Any other ideas or input?

Thanks! ]]> kayakerChuck https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f116/uv-protection-for-roller-furling-headsail-300611.html OCPN radar compatibility overview / matrix? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f134/ocpn-radar-compatibility-overview-matrix-300610.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:45:22 GMT Hello fellow Cruisers, I am trying to make a decision on what kind of used radar to equip. So far I have looked at different locations and... Hello fellow Cruisers,


I am trying to make a decision on what kind of used radar to equip.


So far I have looked at different locations and found different informations about what works and what does not... I guess that is because of posts/lists being compiled during different times. Also, the radar plugins mention what radars work with the corresponding plugin, but an overview matrix would be way more practical as an overview document. If this does not exist, and you agree the it should be up there in the documentation, I would gladly make one.

1.) Question:
Is there a complete list of known working radars for OCPN?

2.) Question:
I understand that magnetron radars are better for spotting squalls. I would prefer to have better squall detection. Is there a list of known working magnetron radars?


3.) Question:
Are there possibilities to use a magnetron radar directly with OCPN, or is it only possible to use them with a head unit that has a network output? If yes, are there any alternatives to make this work?




Cheers, G. ]]> OpenCPN Old_Greenhorn https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f134/ocpn-radar-compatibility-overview-matrix-300610.html ANDROID OpenCPN Currents/Tide Display: Date not displayed and date change not working https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f134/android-opencpn-currents-tide-display-date-not-displayed-and-date-change-not-working-300609.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:53:37 GMT *ANDROID OpenCPN Currents/Tide Display: Date not displayed and date change not working* Trying to move forward day on Seymour Narrows Problem... ANDROID OpenCPN Currents/Tide Display: Date not displayed and date change not working

Trying to move forward day on Seymour Narrows

Problem occurs with tide and current stations

Doesn't show date. Doesn't move forward easily.

Device:
Samsung Tab S6 T860 (Android 12)
Samsung ZFold 4 (Android 16) One UI 8.0

Android OpenCPN 5.14.0 [200]


Posted also on Android-specific forum (so far, no response)
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]]> OpenCPN sv_pelagia https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f134/android-opencpn-currents-tide-display-date-not-displayed-and-date-change-not-working-300609.html Help identifying windvane? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f116/help-identifying-windvane-300608.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:13:12 GMT Hello folks, I'm looking at a Vancouver 27 for sale that has a 'self steering windvane' in the description, but no extra info. Broker has not answered inquiries.

The photos show definitely a windvane-like apparatus at the rear, but can't identify it. Wondering of someone more knowledgeable can help identify it?



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]]> tach https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f116/help-identifying-windvane-300608.html dangers of buying a boat out of the water ?? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f47/dangers-of-buying-a-boat-out-of-the-water-300607.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 14:52:57 GMT hi all, i have another noob question/s. what are the dangers of buying a boat that is out of the water ?? how can i tell if the boat has been... hi all, i have another noob question/s.


what are the dangers of buying a boat that is out of the water ??
how can i tell if the boat has been on the hard for a while ?
i asked AI, but what did AI miss ?


if you have any experience in this matter i would appreciate your input.


regards gaz


what AI said -
"1. Hull & Structure Issues
  • Dry Rot: Wooden boats or wooden components (like decks, frames, or transoms) can develop dry rot if moisture got trapped before storage. It weakens the structure.
  • Hull Deformation: Some hulls (especially older fiberglass) can distort or develop "hard spots" if not properly supported by the boat stand or cradle.
  • Delamination: For fiberglass boats, the bond between the outer gelcoat, fiberglass layers, and core material (like balsa or foam) can separate over time due to temperature cycles or prior water intrusion.
2. Mechanical & Systems Failure
  • Engine Seals & Gaskets: Rubber seals, hoses, and gaskets in the engine and cooling systems can dry out, crack, and leak once re-pressurized.
  • Fuel System: Old fuel can turn to varnish, clogging fuel lines, filters, and carburetors/injectors. Tanks can also develop condensation and internal rust.
  • Through-Hull Fittings: Seacocks (valves) and through-hull connections may be seized or corroded shut, creating a risk of failure (and sinking) when reopened.
3. Rigging & Sails
  • Standing Rigging: The wires (shrouds, stays) that hold up the mast can suffer from internal corrosion (especially at swage fittings), which is invisible but catastrophic if it fails under sail.
  • Running Rigging: Lines and halyards can become stiff, UV-damaged, or weakened.
  • Sails: If stored damp or folded for years, mildew and material degradation are common.
4. Interior & Comfort Systems
  • Mold & Mildew: Closed-up interiors with any residual moisture become mold factories.
  • Plumbing: All water lines, pumps, and toilet seals are prone to drying and cracking.
  • Electrical: Corrosion on terminals, rodent damage to wiring, and dead batteries are typical.
5. The "Big One": Osmotic Blistering (for fiberglass boats) If the boat was stored with a previously waterlogged hull, the problem pauses on land but resumes aggressively once launched, leading to costly repairs." ]]> Monohull Sailboats walk-the-plank https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f47/dangers-of-buying-a-boat-out-of-the-water-300607.html OpenCPN in a browser. Why? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f134/opencpn-in-a-browser-why-300606.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 14:42:46 GMT In the thread Call to redesign OpenCPN in a new generation of nav app... In the thread Call to redesign OpenCPN in a new generation of nav app there are suggestions to have OpenCPN run in a browser. I'm curious why that would be a good idea? I ask out of ignorance. It seems to me that would be adding an unnecessary layer of complexity, at least from the user's point of view. Clearly there are some things I don't understand.


I ask here rather than derail the very active thread Call to redesign. ]]> OpenCPN Portage_bay https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f134/opencpn-in-a-browser-why-300606.html ST4000+ unable to steer 36ft yacht with hydraulic steering??? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f13/st4000-unable-to-steer-36ft-yacht-with-hydraulic-steering-300605.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:12:27 GMT Raymarine ST4000+ wheelpilot on a Van de Stadt Zeehond 36 (8ton) sail boat. Hydraulic steering, approx. 6 turns lock-to-lock. Under power in calm... Raymarine ST4000+ wheelpilot on a Van de Stadt Zeehond 36 (8ton) sail boat. Hydraulic steering, approx. 6 turns lock-to-lock. Under power in calm water the pilot turns the wheel only about 1/4 turn, even with Rudder Gain at 9. Boat does not reach commanded heading changes and eventually shows OFF COURSE. Wheelpilot continues driving and does not appear to stop prematurely. Hand steering works normally. Is this likely a calibration/setup issue, drive slippage, or simply a wheelpilot that is underpowered for a hydraulic system with 6 turns lock-to-lock?


Anyone with experience in this matter? ]]> Marine Electronics katkat https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f13/st4000-unable-to-steer-36ft-yacht-with-hydraulic-steering-300605.html Isolation transformer VE https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f14/isolation-transformer-ve-300604.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:02:15 GMT Hi, I'm installing a Victron Energy 3600 Isolation Transformer. Could someone please explain this section of the VE manual?
3.6. AC output neutral to earth link




A GFCI must be installed in the AC output of the isolation transformer. For the GFCI to operate correctly, the AC output neutral must be connected to the AC output earth and ground (= all the metal parts in the vessel).
To link the AC output neutral (N) to earth (PE), place a green/yellow jumper wire (included) between the J33 and J21 male spade connectors. ]]> Bridger https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f14/isolation-transformer-ve-300604.html Painting older sails? Experiences? https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f116/painting-older-sails-experiences-300603.html Mon, 08 Jun 2026 12:59:08 GMT Hello fellow cruisers! I just stumbled upon this article: https://www.practical-sailor.com/sails-rigging-deckgear/the-case-of-the-painted-jib/... Hello fellow cruisers!

I just stumbled upon this article:

https://www.practical-sailor.com/sails-rigging-deckgear/the-case-of-the-painted-jib/

So I was wondering if any of you have tried this and what results you got!

The context is that I just recently bought a sailboat with an older genoa, and was thinking of what to do to squeeze a bit more life out of it before retiring it. I just spent a 100€ on patching it up, but the sail-wright told me that the fabric is mostly done.

The second thought I had, was that it may be advantageous to do that with my mainsail that still is in pretty good condition, in order to extend it's life a bit. Also the idea of painting something cool on the sails seems nice.

My sails are made of common polyester fabric.


Cheers, G.

PS.: I have spare genoas, but I don't want to use them before I have used up the old one. ]]> Old_Greenhorn https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/f116/painting-older-sails-experiences-300603.html