Yes, it's a cliché, and if you are a sailor, you've probably heard this play-on-words before. While none of us want to admit that we are growing older, I can attest that 99.9 percent of my sailing friends are part of the baby boom generation. Generationally, baby boomers are people born between 1946 – 1964. My husband Bob and I, who have been sailing for more than 30 years, are part of this demographic.   The Ancient Mariner   When global mariner Reese Palley, at age 82, wrote Call of the Ancient Mariner: Reese Palley's Guide to a Long Sailing Life he proclaimed that "sailing is the natural sport for the old, the best way to lengthen and improve your life, and the perfect antidote to a society that conspires to narrow senior horizons". His audience? The nearly one million recreational sailors over 60.   Although Palley is no longer with us (died at 93 years old in 2015), he was the perfect guy to speak about sailing and old age. His two circumnavigations around the earth happened in his 60th and 70th years. He was committed to helping sailors of all types successfully and safely sail into their golden years. He said sailing, as a natural sport, can improve the health of people in their later chapters of life.   Making your voyage a little more 'physically and mentally' user-friendly.   Is it a little tougher to 'tote that barge/lift that bail' and be the grinder in trimming the sails? It's a given that as our bodies age, our muscles and joints become less supple.   The flaw in the older mariner's psyche is the belief that we can do anything with Herculean strength. Bite the bullet. Admit that the aging process has produced some limitations. Stop being Captain Purist. Accept help. If you can't be the fastest at the winch anymore, install a powerwinch. Don't risk a back or shoulder injury.   Have navigation equipment that is easy on the eyes. This a nice way of saying to have GPS Plotters, Fish Finders, Weather Fax, and radar equipment with a text enlargement feature. Be sure that your night vision equipment has the ability for text enlargement. You can't call for help from your Marine radio if you can't read the channel numbers beyond 16.   Have several extra pairs of reading glasses and flashlights in every combing box, swag/gear bag, and bedside bunk compartment, both above deck and below. Have readers duck taped near your gauges. Keep those glasses handy for squinting at shore power pedestals.   We were caught up in two situations where the captain left the boat in daylight and returned in the dark. The hatch was locked with a combination lock and couldn't be read and opened without reading glasses and flashlight. Argh!   Have a pair of reading glasses attached to your First Aid Kit and emergency equipment. Include flares and fire extinguishers. You have to be able to read the dosage on your medication bottles, and possibly a crew member's, too. In life rafts that are prepacked, include a pair of your prescription glasses (and pet food if traveling with your pet).   Back to Basics vs. Safety Common Sense   While we focus here on sailors over 60, we think about going back to the ways of ancient mariners who navigated by the wind and the stars. A good friend learned to sail four decades ago by the seat of his pants. Friends sent him out in a small sailboat, at night, with no landmarks visible, and only the wind in the sails as his teacher.   Let's not be stupid. When it comes to safety, communication and navigation equipment are a must. The bulk of our sailing experience has been on the Great Lakes, and charter trips to the BVIs and St. Maarten. On one such adventure on Lake Michigan, a group of boats sailed together from Chicago to a harbor in Indiana - a four to six-hour trip. This was years ago before personal cellphones. When one of our solo skippers started out late and didn't arrive when she should have, we went into search mode. The marine police and Coast Guard were called.   She arrived safely after sailing into the wrong harbor, then correcting the error, and eventually finding us. She also had no working radio and no GPS or Loran. The stupidity award was given, and we pitched in and bought her a radio.   Enjoy the Ride   A successful voyage means getting from point A to point B in the safest possible way, all the while taking your time and enjoying the ride. No stress, no yelling, just you, the wind, and the waves.   Here's to hitting the high seas at any age. Wind in your hair- the hair that you have left – with crew you love. Fair winds. Smooth sailing.   Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3Happycampers.com  

The iGolf Neo is the  smallest and most affordable device available for golf. The iGolf Neo is a revolutionary device that will change the face of golf forever. Weighing in at only 2.5 oz, it fits in your pocket and works on any course in the world.   We have also added new First Aid Kits by Revere.   Do not forget to check out our FREE CLASSIFIEDS  we just started them and already have 4 listings.   Also, don't forget to add to our Blog with Your Favorite Boat Recipes, Your Favorite Boat Music, and Your Favorite Boat Drinks.  If you have suggestion for more categories please let us know. 

SafeSea V100 GMDSS VHF Radio - 21 Channels w/Battery Kit The Ocean Signal range of survival craft VHF hand portable radiotelephones exceed the requirements of IMO, SOLAS and GMDSS. Features: Lithium Polymer rechargeable battery option available with rapid charger, for everyday normal use Fully waterproof, even 40C thermal shock High efficiency transmitter for maximum battery life Rugged design exceeds GMDSS environmental requirements Lithium primary battery for emergency use -Novel battery protection tab protects from inadvertent use -Battery classified as non-hazardous for shipment -Battery provides in excess of 16 hours typical operation, even at -20°C. (10% Tx, 10% Rx, 80% Squelched) Laser etched key legends for durability High contrast, backlit LCD and keypad Rugged accessory socket option; waterproof to IP68 for use with headsets, helmets, fist mikes, etc. 4 scanning modes, D/W, T/W, scan and memory scan 21 simplex channels according to IMO SOLAs requirements The SafeSea V100 survival craft hand portable radiotelephone meets all the requirements of the IMO for carriage on SOLAS ships. Designed to be ultra-rugged and easy to use, both on-board and in distress situations, the V100 is the ideal choice for mandatory and voluntary carriage. The novel battery protection tab means the primary battery can be permanently attached to the radio without fear of losing its charge. The radio will always be available for use in times of emergency without the need to remove protective labels or the like before use. Simply break off the red protective tab and the radio will be immediately ready to turn on. For everyday use, Ocean Signal offers a lithium polymer rechargeable battery (RB5V) option is available. The quick release rapid charger provides the ideal solution for keeping the batteries fully charged. For routine testing of the V100 an alkaline, non-rechargeable, battery (TB6V) is available. This battery has limited life for testing only and not suitable for operational use. Specifications: Transmitter: Output Power (High): 2.5W Output Power (Low): 1W Modulation: +/-5kHz(max) FM Emission Designator: 16K0G3EJN Pre-Emphasis: 6dB/octave (300Hz to 3kHz) Environmental: IEC60945 Category: Portable Operating Temperature Range: -20°C to +55°C Storage Temperature Range: -30°C to +70°C Humidity: 93% @ +40°C Waterproof: 1M for 30minutes Thermal Shock: 100mm with 45°C drop for 1hour Drop proof (onto hardwood surface): 1M (6 faces) Receiver: Sensitivity (20dB SINAD): -117dBm Audio Output Power: 0.4W Adjacent Channel Rejection: >70dB Intermodulation Rejection: >68dB Spurious Response Rejection: >70dB Spurious Emissions: <2nWatt Battery: Primary: Lithium Chemistry: Lithium/Iron Disulfide (Li/FeS2) Operational Lifetime (10% Tx:10% Rx:80% Squelched): >16hours Replacement interval: 5years Rechargeable: Lithium Polymer WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (dehp) which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Electronic SOS Beacon Locator Kit Beacon complies with all US Coast Guard requirements for "Night Vision Distress Signals" as found in the Code of Federal Regulations: 46 CFR 161.013. Flag complies with US Coast Guard Requirements in 33 CFR 175.130 for Daytime Signaling. Features: Flashes bright SOS distress signal in Morse Code Duration: Flashes 2x longer than USCG continuous run-time requirement Brightness: Maintains constant light intensity 2.5x longer than USCG requirement Light source extends 4" above waterline increasing visibility Waterproof easy and intuitive On/Off switch SOLAS Grade reflective tape at waterline Double O-ring closure Multiple deployment options - floatable, handheld and hanging Low battery indicator function - when turned on unit will quick flash for 5 seconds if batteries need replaced Requires 2 D-cell batteries (not included) Encapsulated micro processor electronics High impact, high visibility orange ABS plastic unibody construction Independently tested by US Coast Guard Approved Lab Packed in a reusable storage container USCG Approved orange distress flag (included) WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (dehp) which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

This durable case protects your Oregon unit from scuffs and scrapes. Squeeze the clasp to release and open case which hinges open to 90 degrees. GPS clips in case securely so it cannot fall out. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

3 Position Plastic Body Ignition Switch 15A rugged plastic ignition switches for marine applications. Impact-resistant body cannot ruse or corrode. Ignition switches operate similarly to traditional switches: "Run" position actuates radio, radar, blower, lights and other accessories. Fits most OEM applications with a standard 7/8" mounting hole. Ratings at 6-36V DC: 15A Ignition, 5A Start Key is removable only in the Off position. Spring return to Ign. 3 nickel-silver screw terminals Durable plastic case and stem with PVC boot for added weather protection Mounting stem fits panels up to 7/8: (22.2mm) thick, with 7/8" diameter hole Fits many boats, including Baja, Celebrity, Chapparral, ChrisCraft, Luhrs, larson, FourWinns, Crest5liner, Mariah, Powerquest, Rinker, S2 Yachts, Silverton Yacht, Thompson, Thunderbird (Formula), Wellcraft WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including LEAD which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Illuminator Kit The SIONYX IR Illuminator Kit includes all the necessary tools to optimize the use and performance of the Aurora family of cameras. The key component is the 940nm, 5W LED infrared illuminator. This IR torch is tuned specifically for the Aurora sensor for the perfect balance of color and brightness to identify targets out to 150 meters and to recognize targets well beyond. The IR Illuminator Kit offers multiple mounting configurations: The included 25mm flashlight mount attaches the IR torch to any standard 1913 Picatinny rail. For flexibility and expanded use, SIONYX also developed a custom Pic rail with a 1/4-20mm screw to thread into the bottom of Aurora cameras, enabling you to attach the IR torch directly to Aurora. The IR torch runs on a single 18650 rechargeable lithium battery for 2 hours of continuous run time. The kit includes an additional battery and USB charger to keep you running through the night. All these items are packaged in a weather-tight hard case with custom die-cut foam. In the Box: Hardshell waterproof case 940nm 5W LED Illuminator  Picatinny 1/4-20 threaded rail  25mm flashlight mount for standard 1913 Picatinny rails  Two (2) 18650 batteries Battery charger & USB cable  Lanyard *Sold as an Individual

Premium Dual Fuel™ Lantern with Case Light up the campsite in any weather with the efficient Coleman® 700 Lumens Premium Dual Fuel™ Lantern with Storage Case. The 2-mantle design creates a steady, bright glow of up to 700 lumens that reaches up to 16 meters. A quick match strike is all you need to get your lantern started, and the Dual Fuel technology offers the versatility of burning Coleman liquid fuel or unleaded gasoline. When you're ready to head home, pop the lantern into the included case for easy storage until your next bright adventure. Features: Dual Fuel™ design conveniently burns Coleman® Liquid Fuel or unleaded gasoline All Season Strong™ technology provides reliable operation in all weather conditions 1 gallon of Coleman® Liquid Fuel lasts as long as 4.5 cylinders of propane 700 lumens on high casts light up to 16 meters Lasts up to 5.25 hours on high or 13.5 hours on low on 1.25 pints of Coleman® Liquid Fuel or unleaded gasoline (both sold separately) Adjustable brightness gives you precise control for perfect outdoor lighting A porcelain-coated 2-tier ventilator helps resist corrosion and rust High-temperature globe resists cracking from heat Bail handle for easy carrying and convenient hanging 2 String Tie #21 mantles included Filtering funnel included Lights with matches Hard carry case included 5-year limited warranty Specifications: Color: Grey Weight (lbs): 6.000 PerfectFlowTM: No InstastartTM: No Number of Mantles: 1 Mantle Style: 2 String Tie #21 mantle Max Run Time (hours): 7 Fuel Type: Dual Fuel Warranty: 5-Year

FishTrax™ 1C-K Paddlesport Fishfinder with Carrying Case This powerful, handheld fishfinder uses SONAR technology to locate the fish depth and measure water temperature & bottom contour. Use it on a motorboat, kayak, or even on the ice in winter. The 1C-k kit comes with everything you need to easily mount the unit to a canoe or kayak.  Features: The 1C-k kit comes with everything you need to easily mount the unit to a canoe or kayak. 2” HD Color Display Waterproof Housing Easy-to-use menu options and settings.  Designed by fishermen, for fishing enthusiasts of all experience levels. Powered by four (4) AAA Batteries Use automatic mode for quick and easy setup, or dial in precise readings with manual mode. Ice Mode Digital Flasher allows precise jig depth readings while ice fishing. Programmable audible alarms let you know when fish are present, or the desired depth has been measured. VariableZone Temperature Sensor measures water temperature throughout the water column for species pinpointing. Polarized LCD for glare-free viewing Technical Specifications: Dimensions - 6" x 3" x 2" (153 x 77 x 51 mm) Screen Size (H x W) - 2" x 1.6" (50 x 40 mm)  Operating Temperature -  0 to 160°F (-18 to 71 °c)  Depth Range 1.5 ft 240 ft  (.5 to 75 m) Transducer Cable Length - 15 ft  (4.5 m) Transducer Frequency - Dual - 200/83 kHz Transducer Beam Angle - Dual - 14/26 Degree In the Box: 1C Handheld Fish Finder Mounting bracket Transducer w/15' cable  Mounting track with hardware Carrying case *Sold as a Kit

Aurora PRO Night Vision Camera Kit The SIONYX Aurora PRO is the top-of-the-line kit.  This kit includes our most advanced camera, the SIONYX Aurora PRO, and all of our favorite accessories packed neatly in a watertight hardshell case.  If you’re looking for an all-in-one kit, then the Aurora PRO kit is for you. In the Box: Aurora PRO color night vision camera Hardshell waterproof case 940nm IR Illuminator Illuminator rail mount Two (2) camera batteries and an external battery charger for Aurora 32 GB MicroSD card Two (2) rechargeable batteries and external battery charger for the illuminator USB charge/data cable *Sold as an Individual

Groco Mp-Hardware Hardware For 155 Series This is required hardware for new installations of the Groco 155-6110-12 and 155-6113-12 macerator pumps.

This is the Major Rebuild Kit that includes the pump shaft.

Jabsco 7420-1001 Kit Kit  

Sherwood P1710X KIT Kit P1710X KIT  

Sherwood P1726X KIT Kit P1726X KIT