Practical Resources for Boat Buyers & Cruisers
Learn how to inspect sails, identify red flags and make more informed boat buying decisions.



Learn how to inspect sails, identify red flags and make more informed boat buying decisions.




The best value and most complete option. Includes The Informed Sail and Dockside Checklist. Get everything you need to feel confident in your next purchase or survey.
The Informed Sail
Dockside Checklist
Save compared to buying separately.

A practical digital guide for buyers and owners. Assess sail condition, spot hidden issues and avoid surprises. Identify major red flags before you go through with any deal. Learn how to when to negotiate or when to walk away.

A simple, practical checklist you can take along for inspections or walk-throughs. Don’t miss a step and feel more prepared at the dock.
Simple instructions show you how to check every area of the sail, so you won’t miss hidden wear or critical damage.
Pinpoint common issues that cause expensive problems. Avoid surprises before you sign anything.
Use straight from your phone or tablet as you look over any boat. Never feel lost or unprepared during an inspection.
I’ve spent a lifetime around sails — building them, racing them, and relying on them offshore.
I’m a professional sailmaker, a full-time liveaboard cruiser, and a multiple world and national title holder. But more importantly, I’ve worked on thousands of sails and seen firsthand where people get caught out — often before they even leave the dock.
Most sailors don’t realise how much performance, safety, and money is tied up in their sails and running rigging… until something goes wrong.
That’s where I come in.
I help boat owners and buyers understand exactly what they’re looking at — how to assess sail condition, avoid costly mistakes, and make confident decisions whether they’re upgrading, repairing, or buying new.
Everything I share is based on real-world experience, not theory — the kind you only get from years in the loft and out on the water.
If you want straight answers, practical guidance, and no sales fluff… you’re in the right place.
Anyone looking to buy a used sailboat, cruisers preparing their boat, or current owners wanting to check their sails before offshore passages.
Yes. All guides are designed to help buyers, owners and cruisers of either catamarans or monohulls. The steps and checklists apply to both.
Yes—each guide and checklist is delivered instantly as a digital PDF you can use offline on any device.
© 2026 Salty Sailmaker. Practical digital resources for sailors and cruisers.