Archives

In the Caribbean, it’s common for boaters — from superyachts to minimalist cruisers — to dive in and clean their hulls.Sometimes it’s just a light wipe… and sometimes it’s an all-out battle against barnacles, grass, and sea growth. 🪸🐌 🔧 Wide scrapers are best for removing large barnacles — aim to take off the entire […]

In the old days, the part of the boat where the propeller shaft exited the hull was sealed with a system known as a “Stuffing Box”. 🧰 The name came from the method used: greased packing rope was stuffed into a metal housing to reduce the amount of seawater entering the boat while allowing the […]

Whether you’re a competitive racer or a discerning cruiser, knowing wind direction is key — and it’s always shifting. Most boats rely on masthead wind indicators, which are great in clear air, but checking them constantly means craning your neck… and possibly ending up with a sore one. 😣 🧵 The “Woollies” Solution Many sailors […]

Maintaining a boat in the Caribbean comes with unique challenges, and one of the most common — yet preventable — issues is moisture buildup, leading to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. Fortunately, there’s a simple and highly effective solution: solar-powered ventilation. 🌞 Why Choose Solar Vents? Solar vents are a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to […]

Whilst Budget Marine has a high regard for stainless steel materials, our experience has shown that stainless steel underwater in the Caribbean is very risky. Electrolysis of course the reason for the risk and it is highly unpredictable. Hence we have stopped selling stainless anchors and where we have stainless steel chain it is the […]

FIRE can be catastrophic on a boat, whether on a day trip, halfway through a long passage, in a busy boatyard, or on a crowded marina. We share these tips that we hope will help protect you, your crew, and your boat. Install the right type and right quantity of fire extinguishers for your vessel. […]

A stable boat that is maneuverable and can be launched off the beach or from a trailer ramp may be just what you are looking for. Here we showcase these useful open rigid dinghies, small craft trailers, and accessories that make them work. Follow the links and click individual product images to find out more […]

Boaters love to relax on board or on the beach, serving cool, refreshing drinks with attractively presented food, providing comfortable seating and floating fun for all ages out on the water. Here are products to help you do just that. Dometic’s CFX3 95DZ Dual Zone Powered 12 Volt, 94-liter Cooler fits perfectly in the back of your pickup truck […]

It is sailing regatta and fishing tournament season, so everyone must have ALL THE GEAR, even if they HAVE NO IDEA! Budget Marine has great products for the serious competitor, as well as the “rail bait” crew. Check them out here. Online or in print – make sure you have the latest Racing Rules and […]

Boat lights have come a long way since the hurricane lanterns that helped sailors at sea in a storm, although many cruisers still have one on board in case of electrical failure. Here we look at lights to make your boat visible, inviting, comfortable to live in, and safe. MPOWERD Luci Lights are solar powered, inflatable, fast […]