CAPTAIN’S MATE APP

Years ago, no cruising motor boat or yachtsman would dare be seen aboard without a current year Reeds Almanac sat on the chart table. Over 1,000 pages thick, it was the cruisers’ bible, packed full of information for every port in the British Isles and Europe. It’s still going strong, but inevitably, technology has caught up and now all of that information is available in the palm of your hand via a variety of apps.

One of the latest, and by the very nature of its source one of the most credible, is the new Captain’s Mate app from the Cruising Association (hence the CA in Captain). Covering over 6,500 locations in more than 70 countries around the world, it was originally launched in 2012 and this latest version has been almost five years in the making.

A database of members’ insightful cruising reports, with 20,000 or more member contributions sharing expertise and tips on locations, along with photos, it provides accurate, up-to-date and streamlined information on cruising locations, such as anchorages, marinas, ports, harbours and quays.

The app displays detailed information via search and filter functions, including approach considerations, availability of and access to key facilities such as water and fuel, and, if available, supermarkets, restaurants and other amenities and boat services like crane and repair options. The app shows discount partners close to locations as well as worldwide, and the useful friend function displays nearby members of the CA community.

Available on IOS and Android, once downloaded the app works with no internet connection or phone signal. For those who prefer using a keyboard and larger screen, the app is also mirrored on the CA website. CONTACT: www.theca.org.uk PRICE: Free with CA membership (Full membership from

£143.50/year)