Long before GPS and electronic chart plotters, sailors relied on carefully crafted charts to find safe passage across unfamiliar waters. For centuries these maps have guided explorers, merchants, fishermen and recreational sailors alike, evolving from hand-drawn coastal sketches into the highly accurate digital charts used today. In this article, we explore the fascinating history of nautical charts, how they have developed over the centuries, and the role they continue to play in modern navigation.
Sailing Origami
Fun Paper Folding Ideas for Life On Board
What is Origami?
Origami is the traditional Japanese art of folding paper into shapes and sculptures. The word comes from ori, meaning folding, and kami, meaning paper.
What is Scouse?
Traditional Liverpool Scouse Recipe – A Classic Sailors’ Stew
When someone mentions Scouse, your first thought is probably the distinctive Liverpool accent. And you’d be right! However, Scouse is also the name of a traditional beef or lamb stew, and it is this hearty dish that gave the people of Liverpool their famous nickname – Scousers.
The Real Robinson Crusoe
Who Was the Real Robinson Crusoe?
The 1719 novel Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe traces the tumultuous voyages and ultimate survival of a man with an unshakable lust for the sea. Since its publication, the story has sparked ongoing debate about who may have inspired the book’s famous castaway.
So, who was the real Robinson Crusoe?
SS Varvassi
The Wreck off the Needles
Introduction
The SS Varvassi was a 3,874‑ton Greek merchant steamship that became infamous after running aground off the Needles Lighthouse, Isle of Wight, on 5 January 1947.
Galley Recipe – Red Flannel Hash
This galley recipe – Red Flannel Hash originates from New England and the name refers to the red and white plaid cloth that is popular in that part of the world. It was traditionally a breakfast using up the leftovers from the previous evening’s meal and has many variations.
The Niagara Scow
I recently came across the fascinating story of the Niagara scow and decided to learn more and share it with you. The Niagara scow, also known as the Iron Scow or Old Scow, refers to a dredging scow that was marooned upstream of the famous Niagara Falls in 1918.
The Folk Boat
Editor’s note: This memoir was written by Lovesail member Gandalpuss back in 2018. It’s a beautifully told story of a Folkboat in Brittany and a mysterious encounter on the water. We love sharing our members’ sailing memories like this.
IndigoBlue Chocolate Recipe
IndigoBlue Chocolate Recipe – Galley Recipes
This simple homemade chocolate recipe was originally shared with the Lovesail community by one of our members, IndigoBlue. It’s an easy, no-bake treat that’s ideal to make on board, withingredients that store well and require very little preparation.
Bristol Pilot Cutters
Masters of the Bristol Channel
The Bristol Channel is a notoriously challenging stretch of water. With the second-highest tidal range in the world, navigating its powerful currents, shifting sandbanks, and frequent strong winds requires great skill and deep local knowledge.