Excerpts of an email from Sean Holland (au417@lafn.org)
What I have found after 15 years of cruising would more than fill up a few pages, but I can simplify this to mention several ideas that may be useful. . . . .
Anchors:
After using numerous anchors, and having different results, this past year I added a 22 kg. Delta anchor, and find it to be far and away the best for us. Although it has a larger profile than our Bruce, it's holding and resetting exceed either the Bruce or the CQR, so I recommend it highly.
Rode:
I prefer to use nylon rather than all chain, and have our boat set up with two 300' rodes (7/8" w/ 36' 5/16" HT galv. chain on each). I find that in most anchorages one does not require the chain, and carrying all that weight around in the bow is detrimental to sailing.
GPS:
We added the Garmin 45 GPS, and have the Waypoint software, power data cable, and the ability to interface with our PC and our radar.
Radar:
Radar incidentally was added this past year as well. I opted to go with the Raytheon RL9 LCD radar, which has several nice features, including small profile, limited power consumption, and a standby feature that uses reduced current.
Autopilot:
For an autopilot I have found that a binnacle mounted is better for us for the following reasons. Lower current consumption, ease of installation, easily removable, low initial cost compared to quadrant mounted, and reliable. I highly recommend the "AutoPilot" by CPT in Ft. Lauderdale. This unit received the highest rating from SSCA, and is far and away the best binnacle mounted pilot for vessels our size.
Prop:
I have added a 3 blade Max-Prop, after using a 2 blade Martec for the first 20,000 miles. Really like the Max-prop, though it is a bit on the pricey side.
Engine:
I use dual Racor filters and have a vacuum gauge to determine when to change filters. Have not had any problems with our diesel in the 15 years. We have a re-circulation system, so that I am able to filter the fuel, without running the diesel.
Refrigeration:
We have 12 vdc refrigeration, and have used the same system for 14 years. Biggest priority is to have the box properly insulated.
Communication:
I have an advanced amateur radio license (HAM). This is probably the best single piece of gear on the boat, considering it's overall importance. Maintaining contact with family, friends, and emergency use, plus weather, marine nets and all the rest. I use a Kenwood TS440S with a SGC 230 Auto Tuner to the back stay. There are too many radios to go into describing the best one and that is an individual taste anyway, however, everyone I have talked with is in agreement that the SGC Auto Turner is the top one on the market.
Windvane:
A windvane is more of a personal choice. We have opted for an autopilot for several reasons . . . . If we're going to cross the Atlantic or Pacific, I would probably install a windvane. For cruising the East coast, Bahamas and Caribbean, I will continue to use an Autopilot.
Canvas:
A dodger and bimini are almost mandatory, though we cruised for several years without the bimini, and now don't know how we did so. Neither does our dermatologist!
. . . . Well this is a quick note and I'm sure only scratches the surface. If you have questions, please continue the thread. Happy Holidays. Sean
Sean Holland
S/V Spindrift NP2AU
au417@lafn.org