Anyone who owns a fibreglass boat (GRP or FRP, yacht or dinghy) knows that it can get damaged in the rough and tumble of everyday use. Sometimes the damage is serious enough to warrant a professional repair (which the insurance company will probably pay for). But at other times it is more minor, and you might want to repair it yourself. But how do you repair it, so you can’t see the repair – get that really professional-looking finish? If you’ve ever asked that question, then this is the book for you. Long-term boat repairer, Pete Vincent, shares the trade secrets of making a lasting, strong and invisible repair. Penni Vincent, who does not share Pete’s experience, got him to explain it to her and together they have created this book – written by an expert, but understandable by a novice. They take you through the equipment, tools and materials you need and then explain the 8 stages of a glass fibre repair job: from the vital initial preparation to the final polish. This is followed by a step-by-step guide to making different repairs including small nicks, scratches and scuffs, star-crazing and deeper areas requiring fibreglassing. They also cover repairing deck / hull joints, non-slip surfaces, moving fittings and leak testing and repair. Given that the first bit of advice is that you need to make the damage worse before repairing it, it is reassuring to be able to follow the steps that they outline, amply illustrated by many photographs and diagrams. Splash-proof and spiral bound – allowing you to lay it out flat beside your repair – this little book will be a valued companion as you set about repairing your boat.

“Gives boat owners an idea about the basic principles of repairing GRP (fibreglass boats) making them sufficiently knowledgeable and confident to tackle small repairs as well as maintaining their boat in good condition.” (Afloat) “The staged approach to small repairs seemed do-able and I liked the advice to consider buying expensive tools in company with other boat owners.” (Yachting Monthly)

Pete Vincent set up West Country Boat Repairs over 20 years ago, providing quality repairs to sailing dinghies of all types. Pete has also owned a chandlery, been chairman of two of the UK’s biggest dinghy class associations and editor of Dinghy Sailing Magazine. He has sailed competitively in a range of different classes for many years in both the UK and abroad. Penni Vincent has a background in fundraising and sales. She now helps Pete run West Country Boat Repairs providing client liaison, administration support as well as hands-on repair work.