Recent content by comino

Still going after 11 years and still keeping an up to date blog.

Thanks again. One thing I've learn't from this is to take copies of all the manuals and instruction documents that are kept on the boat. Like so many others, I hadn't intended to be away for so long and in the past I used to nip back quite frequently to do a bit of maintenance (sit in the...

Thanks Mistroma.......that's really helped me. Option one seems easiest, but how do I know if the existing panel has a blocking diode. It is a Solara SM200S Solar Module 55 Wp. Thanks again.

Thanks for feedback. I guess the question for me is a simple one. Will my Morningstar 12 V Sunsaver Duo Regulator already installed be OK to take another 50 w panel without the need for additional kit or adjustment. I had an input socket fitted in the cockpit allowing us to plug in another panel...

It's very neatly screwed flat (no aluminium frame) to an ideal area on coachroof, with the wires invisibly built into the boat - it was a professional job done at some considerable expense. It would be a shame to lift it and in any event, when we're at anchor it keeps the engine battery topped...

Thanks for the replies - really helpful. I've already got a 50w solar panel, but since getting an all-over winter cover it isn't doing its job!!!

A bit of help and advice please. I intend to put a temporary solar panel on my boat in Greece to top up the batteries during the winter months whilst we're back in the UK. I've got three batteries, but unfortunately I don't have details of their output. Is there a rule of thumb about the KW...

Hi Will.....I sent you a PM. Thanks

Thank you Chris for confirming you are still negotiating. Just to say, I had an email newsletter from Gouvia Marina yesterday stating very clearly that it was a legal requirement for us (UK flagged boats) to obtain a TL as of 1st January 2021. It said if there were any queries to contact the...

There's a button on the web page now - it invites you to sign into the app - you can switch the language to English - one must register - is this it I ask myself?????? I quickly logged out before proceeding and hid behind the sofa!!!

I am advised by Gouvia Marina that they are expecting the on-line payment system, in English, to be operational before 2nd April.

Re: Greek Cruising Tax update from the CA - Fines on DEKPA Gouvia Marina have contacted me to say they will be e-mailing all their customers with instructions on how to pay the tax as soon as the Ministry releases details.

Is it a good thing to close the engine seacock and start it for a few seconds to blow out the water, leaving the engine dryish inside. It's a Yanma 3YMO and the boat will now sit in the water in a marina till next April when we return to the Med. Many thanks.

Seeking some advice please..... A new edition to the family is due this summer (1st grandchild) and it means we'll forego our usual 3 - 6 months on the boat in the Med this summer. I'm arranging for the boat to be lifted and mothballed for a year on the hard and I would be most grateful for some...

It's 100 degrees in the saloon with 60 percent humidity. A tad uncomfortable here in Malta. Wednesday the storms kick off again - if not before!