Refrigeration adds a civilized feeling to an otherwise minimalist lifestyle aboard an ocean-going vessel. Sipping an ice-cold soft drink or cocktail while watching stunning sunsets at anchor or underway a thousand miles from the nearest shore enhances the magic and romance of being on the ocean. Of course, an efficiently functioning, permanently installed refrigeration system drawing a conservative amount of amperage from the house battery requires picking the right system and installing it properly. When shopping for a fridge, you will find three types of refrigeration, each one depending on ..read more

DANA POINT – In a concerted effort at preservation, Dana Point Harbor Partners (DPHP) has embarked on a multifaceted sustainability campaign. Through strategic collaborations with local organizations and environmental agencies, DPHP is implementing a range of eco-friendly initiatives aimed at creating a cleaner and healthier harbor.   One of the cornerstone projects supported by DPHP is Stand Up to Trash, a community-driven initiative dedicated to combating marine litter and pollution. Stand Up to Trash and the DPHP regularly schedule beach cleanups throughout the harbor and Baby Bea ..read more

AVALON— The city of Avalon has embarked on a journey towards sustainable urban mobility with the launch of COAST – City of Avalon Seaside Transit, an on-demand, point-to-point public transportation service.   In partnership with Circuit Transit, residents and visitors of Avalon can now enjoy convenient rides to and from any destination within the city limits, with fares starting at $2 per rider. This initiative marks a departure from the traditional fixed route Garibaldi bus and dial-a-ride system, ushering in a new era of reliability and functionality in Avalon public transit while ensur ..read more

San Diego Gator By the Bay – Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival Description: Immerse yourself in the spirit, sounds and flavors of southwest Louisiana at the largest and most-authentic Louisiana-themed music and food festival on the West Coast. Gator By the Bay offers four days of music, dance, food and fun for the whole family, Louisiana style! Enjoy over 100 live musical acts and performances on seven stages, wooden dance floors, shaded areas and plenty of activities for the kids. Date & Time: May 9 – May 12 6 – 9 p.m. Location: Spanish Landing Park, 3900 North Harbor Dr. Price: Tic ..read more

Welcome to a guide to buying unique and fun Mother’s Day gifts for moms who enjoy boating, fishing or sailing! If your mom finds solace on the open water, delights in the thrill of reeling in a big catch or cherishes the peaceful feeling of gliding across the waves, then you’re in the right place. We’ve curated a collection of gifts that celebrate her passion for maritime adventures, offering a range of thoughtful and practical options that will make her Mother’s Day one to remember. Whether she’s a seasoned sailor, an avid angler or simply loves the serenity of being on a boat, you’ll find th ..read more

As the warmer weather beckons and the days grow longer, boating enthusiasts everywhere are eagerly preparing to set sail into the new season. But before embarking on those long-awaited maritime adventures, it’s time to give your vessel some well-deserved TLC with a thorough spring cleaning. Just like your home, your boat requires a bit of maintenance to ensure smooth sailing throughout the spring and summer months.   Begin your spring cleaning by inspecting all safety equipment onboard. Check the condition of life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares and first aid kits. Replace any expired ..read more

Enjoying a great sailing or motor boat trip along the coast requires us to be prepared for those little emergencies when a running light blows out, a sail track screw works its way loose or the galley faucet starts leaking. Carrying a modest collection of tools, test equipment and repair materials will help you attend to these little bothers and, in most cases, will get you back to enjoying your boat outing in little time.   Hand Tools A modest collection of hand tools for a coastal boat should include screwdrivers, end wrenches, socket wrenches, socket extensions, pliers, Vise Grips and ..read more

Bruce Kessler’s life was a testament to his unwavering pursuit of thrills and challenges. From his early days as a race car driver to his later endeavors as a filmmaker and seasoned mariner, he approached each venture with fervor and dedication.   Having circumnavigated the globe – and as one of the first Americans to do so aboard a motoryacht – Kessler’s passion for the open sea was unparalleled. Over the years, he logged an impressive 100,000 nautical miles as captain of his cruising boats, demonstrating his profound connection to the maritime world.   Transitioning from the fast-p ..read more

The spring fishing season continues to develop with a chance at bluefin tuna and kelp paddy yellowtail in offshore waters, with yellowtail and an assortment of bottom fish species biting around Los Coronado Islands and with calico bass, sand bass, sculpin, whitefish, reds, rockfish, halibut, yellowtail and barracuda possibilities at spots along the San Diego County coast. Bluefin tuna have been biting during the late winter and early spring season but the bite is trying to emerge out of a 3 week slump. Things are starting to look better with an area of biting bluefin located out to the southwe ..read more

This topic may seem a little bit early, but NOAA says that the early part of summer 2024 in the Eastern Pacific (April, May, early June) is still being affected by a lingering El Nino – the more dangerous warm phase that feeds tropical storms in Mexican coastal and offshore waters and the Sea of Cortez. In February, the sea surface temperatures there were 2.9°F above normal. So, for recreational boaters who are still in Mexican waters at this time, it’s not too early to think about hurricane preparations. “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining,” said President J.F.K. TO BASH O ..read more