When under sail, it quickly becomes apparent just how functionally organised the cockpit really is. When the boat heels, unsecured items slide off the table, navigation devices glare in the sun, and a sudden summer shower calls for quick action. Clever gadgets keep your hands free and support the crew exactly where it’s needed in everyday life on board.
In-car connectivity on your wrist
The Garmin quatix 7 smartwatch brings specialised features for use on board right to your wrist. The watch can be paired wirelessly with a number of Garmin products, including the GPS MAP series chartplotters. Data such as water depth, wind and engine speed are displayed directly on the 1.3-inch screen. An integrated app also allows you to control the autopilot. The watch features a turning assistant that can visualise course changes. Built-in alarms warn of tidal changes and anchor drift. According to Garmin, the battery life is up to 18 days. However, all this comes at a price: depending on the specifications, the watch costs between 530 and 900 euros.
Link to the product: Garmin quatix 7
Tip-proof cup holder
A cup holder that won’t tip over, even on rocking boats: the new ‘Universal Non-Tipping Can Cooler’ uses special suction cup technology on the base of the cup to keep drinks upright on any smooth surface. The system adheres firmly to the surface when pressure is applied from the side, but can be easily released by simply lifting it upwards. The design prevents cups and tins from tipping over, so liquids should no longer end up on the deck, even when the boat is heeling. According to the manufacturer, the double-walled stainless steel vacuum insulation is rust-proof and impact-resistant. It is designed to keep cold drinks cool for over twelve hours and hot drinks warm for up to six hours. The system is designed to fit standard cans, slim cans and bottles up to 0.33 litres.
Link to the product: Toadfish can cooler | SmartaSaker
Tablet holder
The “Rokk” tablet mount can be fitted to any flat surface on board. The system accommodates devices with a width of 125 to 220 millimetres and can be rotated through 360 degrees. This allows most tablets to be flexibly mounted on board as an additional display. The mount is made from aluminium and UV-resistant plastics, making it suitable for use on the water. A mechanical locking system holds the tablet securely in the rubberised clamping jaws, even when the boat is moving. The mount costs just under 120 euros.
Link to the product: SCANSTRUT ROKK Tablet Mount MINI
Breathable inshore oilskins
If a thunderstorm suddenly rolls in whilst you’re out on the water in summer, things can quickly become uncomfortable. Slam’s lightweight inshore oilskins, designed for regatta and cruising sailors, are ideal for such sudden changes in the weather. The jacket and trousers are made from the thin, quick-drying Slam Shield 20 fabric, which offers high breathability. To save weight, the features have been reduced to the bare essentials: there are no heavy storm flaps or double cuffs, but the hood can be completely removed. Reinforcements protect the knees and seat. As well as the eye-catching but dirt-prone white version, the set is also available in grey and two shades of blue for a total of 630 euros. You can find the full review here.
Link to the product: Slam OD Hooded Jacket & Long John
Maritime sunglasses
When sunlight reflects intensely off the water’s surface in summer, the glare can become tiring for the eyes over time. The following provides relief whilst out on the water: Brille Ventures from the Swedish brand Vallon. The frame weighs just 26 grams and is made from Bio-TR90 material, which consists of 45 per cent organic raw materials. The polarised V52 polyamide lenses filter out glare and offer full UV protection with a light transmission of 9 to 16 per cent (Category 3). Rubberised nose pads ensure that the glasses do not slip. The model is available in various frame and lens tints for around 100 euros.
Link to the product: Ventures VALLON
Bluetooth speaker with a carabiner clip
Anyone who wants to listen to music on board is often looking for a simple way to mount a speaker in the cockpit. The ultra-compact Clip 5 Bluetooth speaker from JBL is ideal for this purpose. Thanks to its integrated carabiner, the 285-gram speaker can be easily clipped onto the sprayhood or the bimini frame. The device is designed to be dust- and waterproof to IP67 standard. This means the speaker can even withstand complete submersion in water without damage, should it slip overboard or into the bilge whilst being secured. After contact with salt water, the casing should simply be rinsed briefly with fresh water. The battery provides up to 12 hours of playback time. The speaker costs around 70 euros.
Link to the product: JBL Clip 5
Fishing hat for the sailor
To protect yourself from the intense sunlight on the water during long summer sailing trips, a practical hat is essential. The Technical Sailing Sun Hat The von Gill hat offers UV protection factor 50+ and is made from a lightweight, water-repellent fabric. A moisture-wicking inner headband ensures comfort in high temperatures, whilst the stiff brim provides reliable shade. A removable, adjustable chin strap prevents the hat from blowing away. The hat is available in two sizes and costs around 55 euros.
Alternatives in a similar price range include the Crew Sun Hat by Helly Hansen for 45 euros, as well as the Evolution Fast Dry Brimmed Hat by Musto for around 50 euros. Both models have similar features, such as adjustable chin straps for windy days and side press studs that allow the wide brim to be folded up if required. Ultimately, it comes down to personal taste.
Links to the products: Gill, Helly Hansen, Musto
Wheeled drinks holder
The GES UTV drink holder comes in a pack of two and can be flexibly mounted in the cockpit or on the gunwale. The pouches are made from robust Oxford fabric with an insulating foam lining. They are secured horizontally or vertically to tubes with a diameter of 3.8 to 5.8 centimetres using adjustable, non-slip adhesive straps. A drawstring secures bottles and tins when the boat heels, whilst an outer mesh pocket provides space for small items such as smartphones. The set costs around 20 euros.
Link to the product: GES UTV Cup Holder
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David Ingelfinger
Volontär
