A thought and a challenge...

In these dark days of out-of-control-consumerism, one of the few things that gives me hope is a small but growing trend of people who make things... You know, the sort of people who read Make magazine, go to Maker faires, and build Steam Punk stuff or robots on their days off (instead of going shopping at the Mall). You know, the sort of people who have the power to make a better world...

What makes it all even better in these days of computers and  spin-offs, it is now possible for individual people to actually set up small and efficient mini factories and workshops that gives them the ability to actually get their product to market in a cost-effective and professional manner if the need arises. What is even more exciting is that is is more than possible to do such a thing from (dare I say it) a sailboat!

Which is something that very well may come in handy as the marine trades seem less and less concerned with the likes of us, the cruising sailor, these days, and more concerned catering to the more wealthy sectors of the yachting world. Sadly I've been told by a couple of marine tradesmen that working on smaller cruising boats is simply a money losing proposition as there are bigger fish for them.

Personally, I'd much prefer to buy gear designed and built by someone who actually has a clue about sailing and the needs of the cruising sailor, as well as supporting said builder/designer while he cruises in the process. When you think of it's a no-brainer!

Boat Bits would love to hear from any such folks whether you have sorted out a better WIFI system, some sort of sailing gear or a product/design that makes life aboard a cruising boat better or safer. I know there are folks out there doing just this sort of stuff and for those who are not, the big question is... WHY THE HELL NOT?

So, if you are doing something cunning and clever or if you know someone who is doing the make-smart-stuff for folks on boats, send us info here and we will do what we can to spread the word...

To help get your juices flowing, check out this cool video from Kent Weakley
from a recent Maker Faire...