Why Didn't I Think of That?

Cruising on a small boat is a continuous learning experience. Sometimes you discover answers on your own, but more often the best lessons come from casual conversations with other cruisers. Why Didn't I Think of That? brings together the lessons learned, the tested advice, and the ingenious solutions of more than 200 sailors from around the world. Here you'll find nearly 1,200 tips on everything from anchors to bilge pumps, refrigeration to communication, food preparation to handy gadgets, finding just the right tool to weathering the weather, and cruising with children to making your boat a secure and comfortable home. Whether you're new to cruising or a full-time liveaboard, this book belongs on board.

IntroductionAbove DeckCockpitsEquipmentGadgets: ExteriorMasts and RiggingSail PlanWeather ProtectionBelow DeckBugs and VerminDecor and DecorationGadgets: InteriorHeadsHeating and CoolingMildew and MoldMiscellanyOdorsScreensStowageVentilationCruising and SeamanshipAdvice: GeneralAnchors and AnchoringCaribbean Boat BoysCommunicationsDinghiesDiving and SnorkelingDocking and MarinasFuelNavigation and PilotingOffshore SailingSafetySecurityTravel AshoreVisiting Other CountriesWater SupplyWeatherFoodCooking and Food PreparationFishingGalleyProvisioningRefrigeration: Doing WithoutRefrigeration: Electrical/MechanicalRefrigeration: GeneralRefrigeration: IceboxesStovesStowageLife AfloatChildrenClothingEntertainmentGuestsLaundryMailMedicalMoney: Costs and BudgetsMoney: Earning While CruisingMoney ManagementPetsUseful ProductsMaintenanceBackup EquipmentEnginesExteriorMiscellaneous MaintenanceSail CareSewing and Sewing MachinesSinking PreventionSpare PartsToolsMajor Equipment and SystemsBilge PumpsDiesel EnginesElectrical SystemsElectronic EquipmentExhaust SystemsFuel and Water TanksGenerators and Solar PanelsLightning ProtectionLights and LightingOutboard MotorsSteering DevicesAppendix: Contributing CruisersIndexTip Search!