Allowing your electronic charts and other software to become out of date is dangerous, but updating can be something of a minefield. Toby Heppell looks at the options...
Gear
How do I get an MMSI number and call sign?
Send your questions to yachtingmonthly@futurenet.com for an expert answer and the chance to win a bottle of Chilgrove Bluewater Gin
Contessa 32: A brand new classic
Theo Stocker visits the Jeremy Rogers yard to see the latest Contessa 32 take shape
Technical: Overhaul your steering compass
With an old and leaking steering compass, Theo Stocker finds out how to make sure his is in peak condition
Tested: the new style Ultra Anchor
Anchor design is always evolving and Ultra Marine claims its new design is the best yet. Theo Stocker tested the 12kg model, with the Ultra Flip Swivel, on his Sadler
Get Ready for the Season: 8 jobs we often forget
From batteries to logs, Rupert Holmes reminds us of the quick checks with long-lasting implications
Get ready for the season: Essential spring checks
Get your yacht shipshape and ready for launch with top tips from marine surveyor Ben Sutcliffe-Davies. How many of these checks do you do?
Tried and tested: Anchor lights & where they should be fitted
Still relying on an old hurricane lamp at anchor? Duncan Kent tests the latest electric anchor lights
What makes a boat seaworthy?
What characteristics make a yacht fit for purpose? Duncan Kent explores the meaning of 'seaworthy' and how hull design and technology have changed the way we think
Why you should get to know your liferaft
It is easy to buy the cheapest liferaft and then forget about it, but do you know how to use it and what's actually inside? Theo Stoker met Survitec's Matthew…