These are some of our favorite online resources for cruising information and supplies.
Our Checklists: We are list makers. Whether provisioning for a quick overnight at anchor or closing up the boat at the end of season we like to keep refining our checklists.
Sailrite Marine Projects: All things canvas and cloth. Sailrite has an extensive collection of free how-to guides and competitive pricing on supplies. We’ve made bags, lnetifeline cushions, a sail pack, and are working now on a bimini. Often 10% off and free shipping coupons are available at sailrite.com.
Cruisers Forum: This is a huge community of cruising folks with a wealth of experience and knowledge. A great place to ask questions and learn.
SailNet: This is another very active cruising/sailing oriented forum. Lots of great resources for liveaboards as well as part-time cruisers.
Active Captain: Self-billed as an interactive cruising guidebook, this site provides a weath of crusing information presented in multiple formats through multiple software titles and apps. Definitely a must for up-to-date information at a glance.
Defender: This online shop for boating supplies has some of the most competitive prices on the web. Located in New England, their affordable and quick ground shipping lands packages on doorsteps in the northeast sometimes the next day!
Your Local Craigslist: Many of our boating projects have been completed affordably using second-hand (and sometimes new) local finds on Craigslist. Actually, we even found our boat on Craigslist!
Amazon: Although once merely an online bookstore, this company now sells a huge assortment of almost everything, including boating hardware and supplies …even galley-friendly food! Their fast shipping can get you what you need, where you are, with competitive pricing on most items.
West Marine: This reseller has a large physical presence with 250+ retail stores. This results in many convenient locations to get products the same day, but you’ll often pay a premium for this convenience. That said, they have frequent sales that can give some great deals so it’s good to check out their offerings when looking for the best price.
Westerly Owners Association: If you own a Westerly, or are thinking about it, definitely take a trip to this site. Lots of great people and information …and it’s rumored to be the largest active owners’ association in the world.
Royal Savage Yacht Club: If you sail or motor on Lake Champlain definitely check out this great community of boaters. They have an active social calendar and make the most of our short New England season.