This week, I’m joined by Aaron Bandstra, a marine surveyor based in the Pacific Northwest, for a practical conversation about boat surveys, maintenance, and what buyers and owners should really be paying attention to.

We talk about what surveyors actually look for during an inspection. Aaron also shares what signs often point to a well-maintained boat. We discuss how boats that sit unused can age differently, what owners can do to maintain long-term value, and how maintenance habits often tell a deeper story.

A great episode for anyone buying a boat, maintaining one, or simply wanting to better understand what really matters below the surface.

This podcast is brought to you with curiosity, kindness and a big sailing dream.

You can explore more episodes, show notes and ways to support the show at liveaboardsailingpodcast.com

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This week on the Liveaboard Sailing Podcast, John Neal from Mahina Offshore Services returns for another practical conversation—this time around shorthanded sailing.

We talk about why checklists matter, how good systems reduce stress offshore, and what sailors can do to make shorthanded sailing more efficient, safer, and less overwhelming.

We also shift into the current sailboat market, because for the first time in a while, there’s finally more to say than just prices are going up. We talk about what’s changing, what buyers and sellers should be paying attention to, and why the market conversation is becoming more interesting again.

A practical episode for anyone sailing with a small crew, planning bigger passages, or thinking through smarter boat decisions.

This podcast is brought to you with curiosity, kindness and a big sailing dream.

You can explore more episodes, show notes and ways to support the show at liveaboardsailingpodcast.com

Follow our community on Instagram & Facebook: @liveaboardsailingpodcast

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Mike Beemer is a marine technology instructor and sailor who, in 2025, took part in an expedition through the Northwest Passage. We spoke about what it actually takes to prepare for and sail a route like this, from the technical side of the boat to the realities of operating in ice and constantly changing conditions.

We talk about the day-to-day life on board an Arctic expedition, including watchkeeping, workload, and the need to stay adaptable when plans shift quickly.

Mike also shares how his work as an instructor shapes the way he approaches sailing, from problem-solving to understanding systems, and how that perspective played a role during the voyage.

This podcast is brought to you with curiosity, kindness and a big sailing dream.

You can explore more episodes, show notes and ways to support the show at liveaboardsailingpodcast.com

Follow our community on Instagram & Facebook: @liveaboardsailingpodcast

If this episode inspired you, please rate or review the show; it makes a world of difference!

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.