Marine Essentials

This isn't a full chandlery, and we don't pretend otherwise. It's a small, honest selection of the odds and ends that keep boat and water days running smoothly, fixed on what Cornish families actually reach for: Plastimo buoyancy aids and 100N children's lifejackets, a Plastimo pet flotation vest so the dog can come along safely, and a Rhino replacement propeller set for compatible electric outboards. Kayak, dinghy or dog, these are the bits worth keeping aboard.

Flotation for everyone, the dog included

Get everyone sorted before you cast off. As with all flotation, size lifejackets and buoyancy aids by weight rather than age and fit them snugly: 100N self-righting jackets for young children and non-swimmers, 50N aids for confident swimmers in sheltered water. The full set is laid out in our life jackets & buoyancy aids collection if you want to compare. Dogs benefit too, especially on longer trips or in choppy water. The pet flotation vest adds buoyancy and a grab handle, so measure your dog against the size guide before buying.

Spares, and a few sensible habits

A spare prop saves a day cut short. Rocks and sand take their toll soon enough. The Rhino 2-blade set is made for compatible Rhino motors such as the VX34, so check your model and shaft against the listing before you order. Pair the right kit with the right habits: see our coastal safety equipment for lights and flotation, and read our coastal safety guide on tides, weather and telling someone your plans before you head out.