Checking props for weed etc

[MIKERICHES]

Returning to my mooring yesterday boat seemed sluggish though engine revs still fine. Lot of weed about. Wondered if anyone had tried those "toy" periscopes to check their props from the jetty, or can recommend a product. Thanks.

 

[SteveG]

I use a waterproof endoscope. You need the free ap and the pictures can be displayed your phone. Around £10 on Ebay.
You can get cable lengths from 1m up to 5m and more. If you get the version with a stiff cable you may not even need a pole to attach it to. I use some old bamboo drain rods that are very conveniently warped to about the right angle. Take care not to drop the interface box in the sea, though - I am on my second one now!! Best of luck

 

[Neeves]

Some racing yachts had a hole drilled in the appropriate location and the hole filled with an acrylic window. If required a crew member would go over the side and clear the prop or fold the blades. I don't know how common place the practice nor how successful. When we raced it was standard practice for a crew member over the side to simply check before each race start.

Maybe ask on the racing sub section of YBW.

Jonathan

 

[Bobc]

Endoscope taped to a boat hook. You can see the prop and anodes clearly.