Equipment Weekly / Three on-board comfort features for your next cruise

It's good to be on a boat. But there are also a number of small comforts that make cruising even more enjoyable. Here are three that we've spotted among the equipment specialists.

Air Poppy, self-supporting windsocks

For deck hatches, Air Poppy has designed a windsock that doesn't require a halyard to hold it in place. Motorboats will be particularly fond of them. This type of windsock is well suited to anchoring, when the boat is upwind on its anchor. In this situation, the windsock channels the wind inwards, ensuring perfect ventilation. If the wind becomes too strong, the flexible structure of the windsock bends as the gust passes, then straightens out. The Air Poppy fits all deck hatches, and is fastened with a screw press. Simple and effective. From ?85 incl. VAT.

Tiki Factory, an inflatable sofa

French manufacturer Tiki Factory specializes in dropstitch paddles, a material which, once inflated, becomes rigid with pressure, and has developed a range of inflatable accessories. From the rigid lazy bag to the gangway, Tiki Factory now offers a sofa for multihulls. Made in 4 pieces, it can easily be stored in a bag once deflated. Prices from ?359 inc.

Customizable TPC gateways

Why tread monochrome gangways when you can request a design adapted to your boat's colors? TPC gangways distributed by Nautex International can be customized. With a gray anti-slip finish, designs are available as standard. The white paint finish ensures long-term protection of the carbon fibers against UV rays, but it can also be produced in any RAL color shade, with silk-screen printing of a logo or the boat's name. From ?2,265 incl. VAT in 2.20 m lengths.

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