Cockpit lifehack 1:Improvised glass holder in the cockpit
Owner-operated boats often have cup holders at the helm, but many charter yachts lack these practical aids. Or there are simply too few for a larger crew. However, regular hydration is essential, especially in warmer waters, so there are plenty of glasses on the cockpit table. During manoeuvres or when the wind picks up, these quickly get mixed up and break. The complicated solution is to install a sufficient number of glass holders, but we have opted for a quick, inexpensive but no less effective solution: we have attached an elasticated strap with hooks to the table in a zigzag pattern so that the glasses are held in place and do not collide. It couldn't be simpler.
Oliver Reuthebuch, Basel
Cockpit lifehack 2:Fixed place for binoculars
As you know, you always need a spyglass in the cockpit, and it's nice if it has a fixed place. However, binoculars are fragile; lying unprotected on the dinghy, they quickly break. We had a custom-fit bag made from robust canvas, which can be easily detached from the front of the steering column using Tenax buttons. The glass is thus quickly to hand, and the sewn-in mesh base means it always stays dry.
Günter Löffler, Uetersen
Cockpit lifehack 3:Cushion for round coamings
If you are sitting lengthways on the dinghy, you like to lean your back against the cabin bulkhead. On many modern yachts, this area is very rounded, so you are always pressed slightly towards the centre of the cockpit when leaning against it. To prevent this, we have made seat cushions with a suitable fit that are bevelled straight at the front. To ensure that the locker lids remain accessible, the reclining surface has been cut into accordingly.
Andreas Mengen, Spay
Cockpit lifehack 4:Cockpit table with dual use
We also use the holder for the cockpit table for the plotter. A special part makes it possible: I have placed an aluminium mandrel in the place of the holder for the table top and mounted the supplied bracket for the chart plotter on it. The cable connections lead to waterproof sockets in the side wall of the cockpit, right next to the table bracket. This "adapter" allows the navigation aid to be placed anywhere near the helmsman.
Peter Dorwig, by e-mail
Do you have any advice for other sailors?
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