A $12 Miracle: Fixing Patches on a Leaky Dinghy

by Steph & Travis, Sailing Jibsea | Visit Partner Page

Nov 15, 2024 — For sailors, the dinghy is a lifeline and an essential, everyday companion. But when that lifeline leaks, even the calmest adventurer starts to worry. Enter Patches, a trusty but well-worn inflatable dinghy with a problem: her air-retaining abilities were fading fast. In Episode 183, our resilient cruisers embarked on a quest to fix her once and for all—with a $12 solution that promised to be nothing short of miraculous.

The Leak: A Tale of Worn-Out Patches

Life aboard a sailboat is full of surprises, and not all of them are the fun kind. When Patches began losing air daily, it became clear her battle-scarred surface wasn’t holding up. Years of patchwork repairs over gashes and punctures had taken their toll, leaving her with a sagging tube that demanded attention every morning.

The $12 Fix

The breakthrough came from a chance conversation with a fellow sailor, who recommended a simple, non-marine tube sealant — an automotive product designed to fill micro-punctures. Skeptical but hopeful, they decided to give it a go. After all, at $12, it was a gamble worth taking.

Armed with the sealant and some ingenuity, they got to work. First, Patches was cleaned, emptied, and prepped. To guide the sealant effectively, a bit of water was added inside her tubes—a clever way to see where the substance flowed. After a hearty shake and a precise application, they pumped her up and crossed their fingers.

Did It Work?

Two days later, Patches was put to the test. To their delight, the dinghy held firm! No sagging tubes, no deflating at the first sign of weight. Patches was back in action, all thanks to a $12 solution and a bit of DIY spirit.

Lessons Learned

This small victory is a reminder of the resourcefulness required when living on the water. Not every solution needs to be expensive or perfect — sometimes, it’s about trying something unconventional and hoping for the best.

Beyond Repairs

While fixing Patches was a highlight, the team also managed to enjoy some downtime with the cruising community. They discovered a new favorite sport— pickleball — and soaked up the camaraderie that makes sailing life so special.

Onward to New Adventures

With Patches repaired and spirits high, they’re gearing up for an exciting season ahead. Next stop: paradise. Every fix, every small win, and every moment of creativity makes the journey even sweeter.

Catch the next episode as they prepare for their next big adventure! If you’re a fellow sailor, remember: when in doubt, try the $12 fix—you might just save yourself some daily pumps and a lot of frustration.