Pass your boating exam — sailing, powerboat and jet ski, across Europe.https://boatingexamine.com/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/anchoring-gear-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/anchoring-gear-explained/Understand anchoring gear from anchor types to chain, rope and scope, so you can choose the right ground tackle and anchor your boat safely and with confidence.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/anchoring-rules-and-signals/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/anchoring-rules-and-signals/What the COLREGs require when anchored: the day shape, the anchor light at night, fog signals, and where you may and may not anchor safely and legally.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/barometric-pressure-for-boaters/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/barometric-pressure-for-boaters/Learn what barometric pressure tells you about the weather, how to read pressure trends, and why the rate of change matters most for boaters.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boat-maintenance-basics/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boat-maintenance-basics/Learn boat maintenance basics from hull and engine care to seasonal jobs and safety checks, so your boat stays reliable, safe and ready for the water.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boat-trailers-and-launching/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boat-trailers-and-launching/A practical guide to boat trailers and launching, covering trailer types, towing, the slipway routine and safety, so you can launch and recover your boat with ease.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-exam-poland-what-to-expect/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-exam-poland-what-to-expect/A clear walkthrough of the Polish boating exam: 75 questions, 90 minutes, pass mark, minimum age, topics covered, and how to prepare with confidence.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-croatia-guide/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-croatia-guide/Everything English speakers need to know about the Croatian boating licence system, sailing the Adriatic, and how the ICC is accepted for holidays.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-france-permis-bateau/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-france-permis-bateau/A clear guide to the French permis bateau: coastal and inland options, training, minimum age, fees and what the permis plaisance lets you do.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-germany-do-you-need-one/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-germany-do-you-need-one/Find out when a boating licence is required in Germany, when you can boat licence-free, and how the See and Binnen rules differ for recreational boaters.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-greece-guide/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-greece-guide/How boating licences work in Greece: national requirements, the role of the ICC, when a licence is needed, jet ski rules and preparing to skipper safely.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-italy-patente-nautica/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-italy-patente-nautica/A guide to the Italian patente nautica: when it's required, distance and power thresholds, licence categories, training and what it lets you skipper.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-netherlands-vaarbewijs/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-netherlands-vaarbewijs/A guide to the Dutch Vaarbewijs: Vaarbewijs 1 and 2, when a boating licence is required, boat size and speed thresholds, exams and inland waterway rules.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-poland-complete-guide/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-poland-complete-guide/Everything you need to know about getting a boating licence in Poland: sailing and motorboat patents, exams, fees, minimum age and legal rules.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-poland-costs-and-fees/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-poland-costs-and-fees/A complete breakdown of boating licence costs in Poland: exam fees, patent issuance, student discounts, and what is optional versus mandatory.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-spain-per-guide/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/boating-licence-spain-per-guide/An English guide to Spain's PER boat licence (Patron de Embarcaciones de Recreo), the lower licences, and why Spain uses its own national system.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/buoyage-lateral-marks-iala/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/buoyage-lateral-marks-iala/Learn how lateral buoyage works, what port and starboard marks mean, and why IALA Region A and Region B differ, essential knowledge for European boaters.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/buoys-beacons-and-marks-navigation/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/buoys-beacons-and-marks-navigation/Understand the IALA buoyage system, lateral and cardinal marks, safe water and special marks, and how to read their shapes, colours and lights on the water.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/chartering-a-yacht-in-greece-requirements/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/chartering-a-yacht-in-greece-requirements/What you need to bareboat charter a yacht in Greece: ICC or equivalent, sailing CV, VHF certificate, competent crew and the skippered charter alternative.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/chartplotters-and-marine-electronics/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/chartplotters-and-marine-electronics/Understand chartplotters and marine electronics, from GPS and AIS to radar, depth and instruments, so you can choose and use navigation gear with confidence.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/checking-weather-before-you-sail/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/checking-weather-before-you-sail/A step-by-step pre-departure weather routine for boaters, covering forecasts, timing, local effects, and the go or no-go decision for a safe trip.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/choosing-your-first-boat/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/choosing-your-first-boat/How to choose your first boat, covering how you will use it, size, new versus used, running costs and the checks that help you avoid an expensive mistake.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/cleating-and-securing-lines/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/cleating-and-securing-lines/Learn how to tie off to a cleat with a proper cleat hitch, plus how to secure lines under load, coil rope neatly and avoid the most common mistakes.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/cold-water-and-hypothermia-safety/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/cold-water-and-hypothermia-safety/How cold water affects the body, the danger of cold water shock, how to survive immersion, and how to recognise and treat hypothermia after a rescue.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/colregs-explained-beginners-guide/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/colregs-explained-beginners-guide/A plain-English introduction to the COLREGs, the international collision regulations every boater must know before heading out on the water in Europe.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/compass-bearings-and-headings/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/compass-bearings-and-headings/Learn the difference between a bearing and a heading, how to work with true, magnetic and compass north, and how to apply variation and deviation correctly.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/crossing-overtaking-head-on-situations/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/crossing-overtaking-head-on-situations/Master the three core COLREGs encounters between power-driven vessels: crossing, overtaking and head-on, and know exactly who gives way in each.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/dead-reckoning-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/dead-reckoning-explained/Learn how dead reckoning estimates your position from course, speed and time, how to add tide and leeway for an estimated position, and why it still matters today.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/distress-signals-at-sea/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/distress-signals-at-sea/Learn the recognised distress signals at sea, from flares and radio calls to sound, light and satellite beacons, and how to use each one to attract rescue.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/do-you-need-a-boating-licence-in-poland/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/do-you-need-a-boating-licence-in-poland/When you need a boating licence in Poland and when you do not: power and hull-length rules, patents, and who issues them, explained clearly.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/do-you-need-a-licence-boat-netherlands/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/do-you-need-a-licence-boat-netherlands/When you need a Vaarbewijs in the Netherlands and when you don't: length and speed thresholds, charter rules, inland waterway safety and foreign licences.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/do-you-need-a-licence-to-sail-in-france/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/do-you-need-a-licence-to-sail-in-france/When you need a boating licence in France and when you don't: sailing yachts, motorboats, engine power thresholds, charter rules and visitor recognition.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/do-you-need-a-licence-to-sail-in-spain/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/do-you-need-a-licence-to-sail-in-spain/Learn when a boating licence is required in Spain, why the ICC is not accepted, and how the PER fits in for sailing and chartering in Spanish waters.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/docking-a-powerboat-step-by-step/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/docking-a-powerboat-step-by-step/A step-by-step guide to docking a powerboat, covering approach angle, wind and current, using lines and fenders, and recovering from a bad approach.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/essential-boat-equipment-checklist/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/essential-boat-equipment-checklist/A practical checklist of essential boat equipment, from safety gear and navigation tools to spares and documents, so you set off properly prepared every time.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/essential-boating-knots/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/essential-boating-knots/Learn the essential boating knots, from the bowline to the cleat hitch, with clear explanations of what each one does and when to use it on the water.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/essential-safety-equipment-on-board/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/essential-safety-equipment-on-board/A clear rundown of the safety gear every boat should carry, from lifejackets and flares to fire extinguishers and first-aid kits, and how to keep it ready to use.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/fire-safety-on-boats/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/fire-safety-on-boats/How to prevent fires on board, the right extinguishers to carry, and what to do if a fire breaks out, covering galley, engine, fuel and electrical risks.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/first-aid-basics-for-boaters/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/first-aid-basics-for-boaters/Essential first-aid knowledge for the water: handling common injuries, seasickness, hypothermia and emergencies when professional help may be hours away.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/fog-at-sea-causes-and-safety/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/fog-at-sea-causes-and-safety/Understand why fog forms at sea, how to recognise the conditions that create it, and the safety steps to take when visibility drops to near zero.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/gps-chartplotter-basics/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/gps-chartplotter-basics/Learn how GPS and chartplotters work, how to read your position, speed and course, set waypoints, and why you should never rely on electronics alone at sea.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/how-a-sail-works-basics/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/how-a-sail-works-basics/A plain-English explanation of how a sail generates power, why boats can sail toward the wind, and how lift and drag drive a sailboat forward.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/how-to-plot-a-course/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/how-to-plot-a-course/A step-by-step guide to plotting a course, drawing a track, measuring bearing and distance, and correcting for tide and leeway to reach your destination safely.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/how-to-tie-a-bowline/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/how-to-tie-a-bowline/A step-by-step guide to tying a bowline, the essential boating knot that makes a secure, non-slip loop and unties easily even after heavy loading.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/how-weather-fronts-affect-sailing/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/how-weather-fronts-affect-sailing/Understand warm, cold, and occluded fronts, the wind and weather changes they bring, and how to sail safely as a front passes through.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/icc-international-certificate-of-competence-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/icc-international-certificate-of-competence-explained/What the ICC is under UNECE Resolution 40, the minimum age of 16, vessels up to 24m, and which European countries accept it for recreational boating.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/jet-ski-licence-do-you-need-one/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/jet-ski-licence-do-you-need-one/Find out whether you need a licence to ride a jet ski in Europe, how rules vary by country, and what training and registration you should consider.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/jet-ski-rules-and-safety/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/jet-ski-rules-and-safety/A practical guide to jet ski rules and safety, covering right of way, no-wake zones, safety equipment and responsible riding on European waters.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/latitude-longitude-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/latitude-longitude-explained/Understand latitude and longitude, how to read coordinates on a chart, and why one minute of latitude equals a nautical mile. A clear guide for your boating exam.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/learning-to-sail-first-steps/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/learning-to-sail-first-steps/A friendly guide to your first steps in sailing, covering what to learn first, what gear you need, and how to build confidence safely on the water.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/lifejackets-explained-types-and-use/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/lifejackets-explained-types-and-use/Understand lifejacket types and buoyancy ratings, how to choose the right one, and how to fit, wear and maintain it so it works when you need it most.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/mayday-pan-pan-securite-calls/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/mayday-pan-pan-securite-calls/Understand the three levels of marine radio priority calls, Mayday, Pan-Pan and Securite, when to use each, and the exact wording for a distress message.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/mooring-and-berthing-a-sailboat/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/mooring-and-berthing-a-sailboat/Learn the basics of mooring and berthing a sailboat, from preparing lines and fenders to approaching a berth safely and handling wind and current.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/man-overboard-what-to-do/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/man-overboard-what-to-do/A calm, practical guide to man overboard recovery: the immediate actions, keeping visual contact, returning to the casualty and getting them safely back aboard.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/mooring-lines-and-fenders/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/mooring-lines-and-fenders/Understand mooring lines and fenders, including bow lines, stern lines and springs, plus how to position fenders to protect your boat when tied up.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/motorboat-licence-poland-sternik-motorowodny/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/motorboat-licence-poland-sternik-motorowodny/How to get the sternik motorowodny motorboat patent in Poland: exam format, scope, fees, minimum age, and the power limits you need to know.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/navigation-lights-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/navigation-lights-explained/Learn what navigation light colours and positions mean under the COLREGs, so you can identify a vessel's type, heading and aspect in the dark.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/outboard-vs-inboard-engines/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/outboard-vs-inboard-engines/A clear comparison of outboard, inboard and sterndrive powerboat engines, covering handling, maintenance, space and cost to help you understand the differences.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/parts-of-a-sailboat/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/parts-of-a-sailboat/Learn the essential parts of a sailboat, from hull and keel to mast, boom and rigging, with clear explanations of what each component does on the water.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/points-of-sail-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/points-of-sail-explained/Learn the points of sail, from close-hauled to running, and understand how a sailboat's angle to the wind changes the way you set and trim your sails.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/position-fixing-methods/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/position-fixing-methods/Discover how to fix your position at sea using bearings, transits, ranges and GPS. Learn to cross position lines for a reliable fix and pass your boating exam.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/power-vs-sail-right-of-way/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/power-vs-sail-right-of-way/When a power-driven boat meets a sailing vessel, who gives way? Learn the COLREGs rules on power versus sail, plus the exceptions that catch skippers out.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/reading-a-marine-weather-forecast/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/reading-a-marine-weather-forecast/Learn how to read and interpret a marine weather forecast, from wind and sea state to warnings, so you can plan safe trips with confidence.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/powerboat-handling-basics/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/powerboat-handling-basics/Learn the fundamentals of powerboat handling, from steering and throttle control to reading wind and current, in this clear beginner's guide for new skippers.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/reading-a-nautical-chart-beginners/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/reading-a-nautical-chart-beginners/Learn to read a nautical chart step by step, from symbols and soundings to scale and the compass rose, so you can navigate safely and pass your boating exam.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/reading-clouds-at-sea/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/reading-clouds-at-sea/Learn to identify the main cloud types at sea and what they reveal about approaching weather, so you can forecast changes with your own eyes.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/reefing-when-and-how/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/reefing-when-and-how/Learn what reefing is, the signs that tell you it is time to reef, and a clear step-by-step method for reducing sail safely as the wind builds.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/restricted-visibility-rules-fog/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/restricted-visibility-rules-fog/How the COLREGs apply in fog and poor visibility: safe speed, sound signals, radar use and the special conduct rules that keep vessels safe when they cannot see.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/riding-a-jet-ski-for-beginners/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/riding-a-jet-ski-for-beginners/A beginner's guide to riding a jet ski, covering launching, throttle steering, turning, reboarding after a fall and building confidence safely on the water.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/rigging-basics-for-beginners/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/rigging-basics-for-beginners/A clear introduction to sailboat rigging, covering standing and running rigging, common rig types, and how to prepare your boat to sail safely.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/right-of-way-at-sea-who-gives-way/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/right-of-way-at-sea-who-gives-way/A simple explanation of the give-way hierarchy at sea under the COLREGs, so you always know which vessel keeps clear and which one holds its course.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/sail-trim-basics/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/sail-trim-basics/Master the basics of sail trim, from reading telltales to easing and sheeting in, so your sailboat moves faster, points higher and handles with ease.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/sailboat-vs-motorboat-which-to-choose/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/sailboat-vs-motorboat-which-to-choose/A balanced comparison of sailboats and motorboats covering cost, speed, skill, maintenance and the kind of boating each suits, to help you decide which fits you.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/safe-speed-and-lookout-rule/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/safe-speed-and-lookout-rule/Rules 5 and 6 of the COLREGs cover keeping a proper lookout and proceeding at a safe speed, the twin habits that prevent most collisions at sea.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/sailing-in-italy-licence-rules/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/sailing-in-italy-licence-rules/Understand Italy's boating licence rules: when you need a patente nautica, the no-licence allowance, charter requirements and recognition of foreign licences.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/sailing-patent-poland-zeglarz-jachtowy/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/sailing-patent-poland-zeglarz-jachtowy/How to earn the żeglarz jachtowy sailing patent in Poland: exam format, fees, minimum age, and the path to offshore skipper and captain.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/sea-breeze-and-land-breeze-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/sea-breeze-and-land-breeze-explained/Discover how sea and land breezes form, when to expect them, and how to use these daily coastal winds to plan better, safer boating trips.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/sailing-upwind-vs-downwind/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/sailing-upwind-vs-downwind/Compare sailing upwind and downwind, from sail trim and boat feel to safety and technique, so you can handle both with confidence in any conditions.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/sound-signals-at-sea/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/sound-signals-at-sea/Decode the sound signals of the COLREGs: short and prolonged blasts for manoeuvres, overtaking and restricted visibility, explained clearly for boaters.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/skipper-licence-croatia-for-charter/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/skipper-licence-croatia-for-charter/A practical English guide to the skipper licence requirements for chartering a yacht in Croatia, including the ICC, radio certificate and experience.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/sportbootfuehrerschein-germany-guide/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/sportbootfuehrerschein-germany-guide/A clear English guide to the German Sportbootführerschein (SBF) See and Binnen recreational boat licences, who needs them, and how to prepare.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/tacking-and-gybing-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/tacking-and-gybing-explained/Understand the difference between tacking and gybing, when to use each manoeuvre, and step-by-step how to turn a sailboat safely through the wind.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/thunderstorms-and-boating-safety/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/thunderstorms-and-boating-safety/Learn how thunderstorms form, how to spot one approaching, and the practical steps to protect your crew and boat from lightning and squalls.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/tides-explained-for-boaters/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/tides-explained-for-boaters/Understand what causes tides, how to read tidal heights and streams, and why springs and neaps matter. A clear guide to tides for your boating exam and safe passages.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/trim-and-planing-explained/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/trim-and-planing-explained/Understand how planing works, what boat trim means, and how to use trim tabs and engine trim to get a smooth, efficient and safe ride on your powerboat.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/understanding-boat-engines/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/understanding-boat-engines/A beginner-friendly guide to boat engines covering petrol and diesel, two and four stroke, how they work and basic care, so marine propulsion makes sense.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/understanding-wind-and-the-beaufort-scale/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/understanding-wind-and-the-beaufort-scale/A clear guide to the Beaufort scale, how wind force translates to sea conditions, and what each level means for safe and comfortable boating.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/using-vhf-radio-basics/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/using-vhf-radio-basics/A beginner-friendly guide to marine VHF radio: how it works, key channels, DSC, correct calling procedure and the radio etiquette that keeps the airwaves clear.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/vhf-radio-buying-guide/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/vhf-radio-buying-guide/A practical VHF radio buying guide covering fixed versus handheld sets, DSC, power, antennas and licensing, so you choose the right marine radio for your boat.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/understanding-depth-soundings/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/understanding-depth-soundings/Learn how to read depth soundings and contours, what chart datum means, how tide affects real depth, and how to use an echo sounder to stay off the bottom safely.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMThttps://boatingexamine.com/blog/which-boating-licence-do-i-need-in-europe/https://boatingexamine.com/blog/which-boating-licence-do-i-need-in-europe/A country-by-country overview of boating licences in Europe, comparing Germany, Croatia and Spain, and explaining where the ICC is and isn't accepted.Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT