In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
Cooling by bathing
Sails down and into the water - this is probably the best way to cool off at sea. Even if hoisting the sails may seem superfluous when there is little wind, it is important for safety reasons: if a breeze suddenly comes up, high-sided yachts without sails quickly drift off so quickly that an ordinary swimmer can hardly keep up. That's why a fender on the floating line is just as much a part of the bathing routine as unfolding the bathing ladder in good time. And don't forget: Reapply sun cream after swimming!
Utilising evaporative cooling
According to the laws of physics, evaporation creates cold. This can be utilised in rather simple ways, for example with damp cloths hung in hatches and companionways. The clever option: moisten your cap and T-shirt regularly - the cooling effect is naturally strongest directly on the skin. Bottles can also be cooled by putting a wet sock over them.
Protect food
- -On-board refrigerator: The appliance is not ideal in two respects: it consumes electricity and offers little space. This makes it all the more important to make optimum use of the available space. The on-board cooler works best when well filled - then only a little cold air escapes when it is opened and is hardly replaced by warm air. A simple trick increases the cooling capacity: frozen cooling elements can also be placed inside if there is still space available. Rectangular, solid elements are particularly suitable instead of cooling bags. Alternatively, juice cartons can also be deep-frozen and used as replacement cooling elements.
- Alternatives: For fruit, butter and jam, the coolness at night is often enough to keep them edible for a long time. If there is no room in the fridge, they can be wrapped in a box in a high-quality sleeping bag during the day. In the evening, they are usually only a few degrees warmer. Depending on the food, there are tried and tested preservation methods, such as boiling, drying or pickling.
Provide a draught
For just under 10 euros Fans which are connected via USB plugs - ideally via a battery bank on board. If conditions permit, the deck fans with the opening for fresh air supply can be turned into the wind. And when at anchor, the use of a windscoop is recommended: The bag catches the breeze and directs it through the hatch into the interior of the boat.
Ice in an insulated container
In well-insulated containers, ice cubes for refreshing drinks can easily remain frosty for a day. Because of their usually narrow necks, ordinary vacuum flasks but somewhat impractical. It's much easier with wide-necked Thermal containers for food. Despite the now very effective insulation, make sure that the container is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Mobile air conditioning
The company Evapolar offers a mini "air conditioner" in cube form with a USB connection for around 240 euros. It works on the principle of evaporative cooling. A cartridge is continuously moistened with fresh water, which evaporates. The power consumption is said to be just 10 watts; connected to a battery bank, no fixed installation is required. Cooling is said to be sufficient for around three square metres. A replica is now also available for a tenth of the price. The mini "air conditioner" from Evapolar is available, for example, from Amazon or at Fritz-Berger available.
Rigging for shade
In the northern climes, permanently installed biminis are not common. But when the sun is sizzling mercilessly, shade still needs to be provided. So a temporary solution is needed.
- Parasol: A visually not particularly elegant, but very simple solution is to use a parasol. It can be quickly set up, flexibly aligned to the sun and is also inexpensive to purchase. Niro Petersen and Lanztec offer universal sunshade holders that can be attached to the winch. Alternatively, holders for the railing can also be used.
- Awning: Awnings provide pleasant shade in the harbour or at anchor. The simplest versions are placed over the main boom and tensioned towards the railing. There are also triangular-shaped models that are specially designed for the foredeck, as well as the "overhead" - a kind of giant disc with a five-metre-long, all-round aluminium tent pole (photo). But be careful: waterproof materials, which are also designed to keep out rain, seal tightly and can lead to heat build-up under the sail. As an emergency solution, air-permeable fabrics can be used as awnings. However, such materials are usually not very resilient and generally offer no protection against UV radiation.
Plan your route flexibly
Travelling during the hottest part of the day can be a real strain, especially on downwind courses. However, this can be countered with an adapted itinerary. If the sailing schedule allows, an early start can ensure that you are already in cool rooms or on the beach during the critical phase. The same applies to a late departure in the evening. You can also avoid the worst of the heat. A Mediterranean cruise in midsummer, for example, can quickly turn into a heatwave. Perhaps the trip can be postponed to the early or late season? Or to an area with a more pleasant climate?
Covering hatches
This measure is widely used in motorhomes: Windows and hatches are covered with reflective film. This may not look particularly attractive, but it works reliably. If the films are cut to fit the skylights, the visual impact also remains within limits. If needed at short notice, a rescue blanket is a practical solution - this has also proven its worth among motorhome travellers. Reflective inserts for installation from the inside are also available, but heat can build up between the window and the film.
Sleep better
- On deck: If there is a pleasant breeze at night, it is usually more noticeable on deck than in the bunk - especially as the heat below deck dissipates only slowly. An outdoor sleeping area may therefore not be as comfortable as a bunk, but it is often more bearable.
- Cooling mats: This unusual tip comes from sailors who have been travelling in very hot waters. The cooling mats are actually intended for pets, but an XL model for large dogs, which costs around 80 euros, is actually used by some - some even swear by it.
- Do not cook: If possible, the cooker should not be used directly before going to bed. The burner not only heats the cooking pot, but also the already warm surroundings.
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik
