Diesel Deep Dive: The Effect of Time on an Engine

This article was originally published in the November 2021 issue of 48° North. Marine diesels endure a tough life during their time on board a vessel. Often I hear, “A diesel will last forever,” or, “That engine will get a…

Staying Afloat: On Zodiacs, Zinfandel and Buoyancy

When it comes to the attributes of buoyancy, most boaters have some awareness of their vessel's displacement, ballast, and draft, as those concepts pertain to their ship’s navigation and handling. As the confidence in their…

Beacon Background: The North Head Lighthouse

This article was originally published in the November 2021 issue of 48° North North Head is a perfect example of an iconic lighthouse. Rugged and isolated setting? Check. White tower overlooking an endless expanse of ocean?…

Artist’s View: American Golden-Plover

Last spring, I saw hundreds of…

Diesel Deep Dive: Quirks of the Engine Cooling System

Exploring the quirks of the marine diesel engine cooling system. This article was originally published in the October 2021 issue of 48° North.  It’s a beautiful sunny day, and the water is calling. Once the diesel is started…

Beacon Background: The Mukilteo Light Station

This article was originally published in the October 2021 issue of 48° North.  What is it about lighthouses that makes them so alluring? Although they were designed to keep vessels and mariners at a distance from shore,…

Artist’s View: The Painted Anemone

This article was originally…

Three Sheets Northwest: After Nearly A Decade, A Boat Is Reborn

This article was originally published in the September 2021 issue of 48° North. Some things just can’t be rushed. So it was with the renaming of our boat, the vessel formerly known as Meridian. We knew when we bought our…

Tech Talk with SeaBits: Anchor Alarms

This article was originally published in the September 2021 issue of 48° North. Anchoring is an essential skill for cruising, but it can be stressful — finding the perfect spot in a crowded anchorage can test even the most…