Christmas gifts for sailors in 2020
1. Here's a most unusual one...Monumental Maritimers
For further information see the video at https://youtu.be/rJPKl8oIq_I or contact cathy@seashellcommunications.co.uk
2. Zhik 6L Hi-vis Drybag
Protect small valuables from water submersion with this highly visible mini dry bag. This 6-litre lime green dry bag is 100% waterproof with taped seams and its thermoplastic polyurethane material is machine washable. It features a clip ring and bungee-cord loop. When rolled it remains airtight which also keeps it afloat. Empty, it rolls up small enough to fit in a pocket. I could see storing essential items in it, like passports and mobile phones, as a grab bag.
It is the smallest offering from Zhik’s new range which also includes a 25-litre roll-top drybag and a 30-litre dry backpack.
3. Crew-Talk deck intercom system
Crew-Talk Essential enables completely handsfree communication between a skipper and crew member telephone style. No need to shout from the helm to the foredeck and hands-free. It offers clear and effective noise-cancelling communication over a distance at moderate tones and can connect with up to 5 headsets.The units are waterproof and set up takes just minutes. The units have about 12 hours talk time and are rechargeable. The starter kit consists of two receivers and two headsets, each with a case, charging cable, lifejacket clip, and an armband for the receiver which allow a 2-person conference group - although 5 can listen only two can speak at any time. A 4-person conference group unit is available.
A genuinely useful tool, particularly on larger yachts. Crew-Talk Plus is perfect for couples or short-handed sailing and has been tested on both racing and sail training yachts – with very positive feedback.
A genuinely useful tool, particularly on larger yachts. Crew-Talk Plus is perfect for couples or short-handed sailing and has been tested on both racing and sail training yachts – with very positive feedback.
4. Zhik ZK Seaboot 900
Designed for serious offshore and ocean racing, the ZK Seaboot 900 is a 100% waterproof seaboot made from a combination of rubber and insulating neoprene. Delivering amazing support, comfort and performance while remaining agile and responsive to the feel of the boat. Featuring a high grip rubber sole, integrated fast-draining gaiter system, comfortable 3D mesh lining and individually tested during production to provide you with the confidence needed when out at sea.
They were warm and extremely comfortable, thanks in part to the Merino lining and bouncy soles that absorb impact. These sailing boots have the best grip even if they did squeak annoyingly against the deck. The gaiters were good, although the toggles on the inner leg can catch each other unless they are tucked in. There were good handles on the front and rear of the leg to help get them on and off. The neoprene helps to keep them light and easy to stow.
€279.95
5. Ocean Signal RescueMe MOB1
MOB1 is one of the world's smallest personal Man-Over-Board devices with integrated DSC. MOB1 communicates with the vessel you have been separated from and nearby vessels (up to 8 kilometres) using AIS. The compact design makes installation in life jackets easy. It has a strobe light that is activated at the same time as the device and using integrated DSC (digital selective calling), it sets off the alarm on the boat. It has 7 years of battery life and 24+ hours of transmission time. It activates automatically and acquires fast and accurate positioning (66 channel GPS).
The light output is a beam of over 30° throughout the full 360° azimuth, providing more than 6 times more light coverage than other electronic flares. Light is also distributed above the unit to ensure visibility for aircraft and helicopter SAR.
Unlike single-use pyrotechnic flares, the rescueME EDF1 can be used repeatedly in any of its four modes, ensuring continued visibility is maintained over a longer period. The unit is both safe to store and use in a liferaft while also eliminating any worries associated with expiry and disposal.
The compact size and rugged design means the rescueME EDF1 is the perfect safety product for a grab bag, life raft, kayak or hiker’s backpack. It has a range of up to 7 miles, is waterproof to ten meters, and has 6 hours of battery life. And as users can replace the battery themselves, you can always carry a spare.
7. Yeti Hopper® Soft Coolers
The Scrubba tactical bag was designed in consultation with a former Australian SAS team leader. In addition to the Scrubba wash bag features, the tactical bag comes equipped with an extra-large twist-style valve. This allows for easy opening and quicker deflation, simplifying the washing process from start to finish.
This is a game-changer for couples and others who sail shorthanded. It makes rescue if someone falls overboard feasible, but I do worry about users becoming complacent about not falling overboard to begin with.
Available on amazon.com and from chandlers
€239.95
£209.95
£209.95
6. Ocean Signal EDF1 Electronic Distress Flare
Also from Ocean Signal, the rescueME EDF1 Electronic Distress Flare needs to go into every ditch bag at minimum. The EDF1 electronic distress flare offers safe and long-lasting visual signalling in an emergency. The unique lens design combined with the use of advanced LEDs and highly efficient circuit technology ensures a constant level of light output throughout the life of the user-replaceable battery.
The light output is a beam of over 30° throughout the full 360° azimuth, providing more than 6 times more light coverage than other electronic flares. Light is also distributed above the unit to ensure visibility for aircraft and helicopter SAR.
Unlike single-use pyrotechnic flares, the rescueME EDF1 can be used repeatedly in any of its four modes, ensuring continued visibility is maintained over a longer period. The unit is both safe to store and use in a liferaft while also eliminating any worries associated with expiry and disposal.
The compact size and rugged design means the rescueME EDF1 is the perfect safety product for a grab bag, life raft, kayak or hiker’s backpack. It has a range of up to 7 miles, is waterproof to ten meters, and has 6 hours of battery life. And as users can replace the battery themselves, you can always carry a spare.
Available on amazon.com and most chandleries
€110
7. Yeti Hopper® Soft Coolers
The Hopper was built for those adventures where you want to grab your gear and go. It’s the original European 100% leakproof, ice-for-days portable cooler. And because they used materials found in things like HazMat suits and whitewater rafts, it’s also tough as nails.
The Hopper M30 for example is a carry-the-day soft cooler with a wide mouth for easy loading and unloading. It closes almost on its own with the HydroShield™ Technology - a strip of ultra-strong magnets - then is secured with two Quick-Release Buckles to ensure it can withstand being tossed around.
The Yeti is ideal for taking on adventurous day trips, safaris, and to the supermarket when provisioning in hot climates.
From about €250
8. Nautical bracelets from Constatin Nautics
Don't have a fortune to spend but want to give a sensible yet personal gift? Look no further because Constantin Nautics has a vast selection of stylish nautical bracelets at very reasonable prices. Many cruisers don't like to attract attention by wearing expensive jewellery aboard. The lovely bracelets made by this UK company retail normally for about £25 but are on sale for half price at the moment. Buy direct or from amazon where some different items are available.
https://constantinnautics.co.uk/
9. The Scrubba Portable Wash Bag
One of the hardest things for boaters who go for longer trips is finding a place to do laundry. And when you do find a place, it often costs an arm and a leg. Well, now you can get a product that folds down to a tiny unit and allows you to wash several items of clothing at a time. It's based on the idea of the old washboards. Featuring a flexible inner washboard, the pocket-sized patented Scrubba wash bag allows a machine quality wash anywhere in just minutes. It is hygienic, self-contained, electricity-free and easy to use, even in the smallest spaces. Just place your items in the bag, fill with water, add soap, close it up and release any air. Then agitate with your hands or feet for up to 3 minutes. Empty the dirty water and replace with fresh for the rinse.
The Scrubba wash bag coming in green or black and the Tactical wash bag comes in brown.
£42-45 on amazon
https://thescrubba.com/products/scrubba-tactical-wash-bag
10. Luci Light solar-powered lantern
We've been recommending the Luci light since it was launched years ago when a young woman who invented it was selling it with the promise that for every one purchased, she send one to a family that had no access to electricity. We bought in hook, line and sinker.
Each year, they've introduced useful innovations; it appears now to be owned by a company called MPOWERD. The original Luci light comes folded flat with a strap for hanging and a small solar panel. Just inflate the chamber and place in sunlight. During the day, the light charges in the sun and at night it can be used to illuminate a cockpit or a campsite. Ours have lasted for years. Waterproof with advanced LED lights.
We string two up one in the cockpit and one in the forepeak of our sailboat as backup anchor lights. They provide all-around white light and strung at deck level, they make us very visible in an anchorage.
Luci Original (soft light) £18
Luci Transparent (bright light) £27
Luci with phone charger £48-52
Luci Utility light with stand £15
Luci Mood light (coloured) £27
Luci Candle (with Li-battery) £18
Luci Lux (24h on one charge) £33
Luci Pro Outdoor (50h on one charge) £23
Luci solar string £40
Available on amazon
LuminAid makes a knockoff product that can also be quick-charged via USB cable (1-2hrs vs 10hrs) which sells for about £25 on amazon.
Books
Books are always great gifts for sailors. There is always something more to learn. There is a great selection of books reviewed on our website here. Of course, for the boat owner looking to cruise to interesting places, being able to anchor the boat safely and effectively is one the first requirements. So, the popular and best-selling Happy Hooking - the Art of Anchoring now in its third edition would make an excellent gift for aspiring cruisers.
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