We love improvising. Just not in the shower.

Do you know that moment?

You’re standing in the shower onboard, one hand holding the hose, the other somewhere between shampoo and trying to keep your balance. The boat moves, the water stream follows – just never where you actually need it.

And at some point you wonder: Could this be easier?

That’s exactly what Lorenzo and Margherita at Works On Water (WOW) asked themselves. Two young sailors from Italy who built their own solution.

“We wanted something you can use without thinking” they told us.

And that’s exactly how it feels.

Clip it in, connect and turn on the water.

And suddenly – both hands are free:

• hold on when the boat moves
• soap up without juggling
• move without getting tangled

Sounds simple… until you realize what it actually changes.

The water? Not a weak trickle. It spreads in a way that makes you pause for a second and think: Okay… that’s pretty close to home.

“We design solutions for sailors who don’t want to figure things out onboard – for example a shower you can handle with one hand while the boat is moving,” says Lorenzo from Works On Water.

And that hits the point.

What we really like: you adapt the system to your boat – not the other way around. Colors, materials, lengths: you build your shower to fit your setup.

Lengths from 70 to 200 cm – depending on where you want to install it

Shower head in S or M – compact for tight spots, larger for more comfort

A height-adjustable soap holder, mounted directly on the pole

And yes – you can even add your boat name or logo.

Everything stays lightweight, flexible, and easy to store. And: the fitting doubles as a deck wash connection – practical when you need water on deck anyway.

Installation? Honestly, almost too simple: insert, twist, turn on the water – done.

Onboard FYD-Adventure, many things are intentionally simple. Which is exactly why these moments, where something just works, stand out.

We’re using the shWOWer on our catamaran FYD-Adventure, together with our OCEAN-SPRING watermaker by Julian Schlichtenmayer. And yes – you step out, run your hands through your hair, and immediately feel that the salt is gone. No sticky skin, no “good enough”. Just clean.

And honestly – next time you try to shWOWer onboard, you might catch yourself thinking: There’s got to be a better way, right?

Thank you, Margherita and Lorenzo – for that subtle shift from “good enough” to “this feels right.”

If you want to take a closer look at Works On Water and the shWOWer: 👇

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Fresh water — our most essential resource. Why a watermaker on board changes everything

How much water do you actually need to survive?

Sounds simple – until you start doing the math.

The human body is made up of roughly two-thirds water. Under normal conditions, about two liters per day are enough. But what happens when you’re out there with twelve people on a research catamaran — far from harbors, rivers, any kind of infrastructure?

That’s when a simple equation turns into reality.

• 12 people × 2 liters of drinking water = 24 liters per day
• Add brushing teeth, a quick wash, basic hygiene: another 12 liters
• Cooking? Another 4 liters

That brings you to roughly 40 liters per day. Over a month: 1,200 liters.

So where does 1.2 cubic meters of water come from?
In the middle of the Pacific. On a remote atoll. With no supply.
For a long time, our answer was clear: a watermaker? Too expensive. Too sensitive. Too much upfront cost.
So we calculated. Planned with jerry cans. Organized storage space. You can picture yourself deep in the hull, moving canisters, unscrewing lids, pouring water — always with the same question in the back of your mind:

Will it be enough?

And then you meet someone who doesn’t just understand this problem in theory — but has lived it.

Julian Schlichtenmayer.
Sailor. Mechanical engineer. Founder of Ocean Spring Watermakers.

Someone who has experienced it again and again on transoceanic passages: systems that fail, setups that frustrate, technology that lets you down at exactly the wrong moment.
“I don’t install that kind of stuff anymore — I build it properly,” he says.
And that’s exactly where his watermakers come from.

What makes these systems different isn’t something you notice right away. You feel it later.

When you drop anchor in a shallow bay, surrounded by quiet, untouched coastline, no harbor in sight — and you stop calculating.
The technology behind it is straightforward:

Seawater is drawn in and passes through multiple pre-filters

A high-pressure pump builds up around 60 bar

The water is pushed through membranes

Salt and water are separated — and clean drinking water ends up in your tank

It sounds technical. And it is.

But out there, it feels different.

Like safety.
Like freedom.
Like the certainty that you can stay.

Seawater is aggressive. It corrodes materials, attacks every weak point. That’s why every detail matters.

Ocean Spring Watermakers rely on high-quality, seawater-resistant components — from the high-pressure pump to the membranes. Robust, well thought out, low-maintenance.
That’s what made the difference for us.

Energy on board is limited. So we chose a compact system: Watermaker DC60.
60 liters per hour — efficient, reliable, perfectly suited to our setup.

The high-pressure pump comes from Cat pumps® Germany, a component built to perform under pressure.

But what truly convinced us goes beyond technology.

It’s the mindset behind it.
“My mission is to provide sailors with reliable, high-quality watermakers at fair prices — so independence at sea doesn’t become a luxury. And in the long term, I want to use this knowledge to help bring access to clean drinking water to people in water-scarce regions.”

That resonates deeply with what we stand for.

We carry this knowledge forward into our own freshwater projects — working in coastal and riverside regions where access to clean water is limited, developing autonomous solutions for water generation.

Today, this is what it means for us:

We arrive, drop anchor — and we can stay. No constant calculations. No background pressure. Just independence.

And that’s why Julian is not only part of our expedition today, but also a partner and advisor in our FYD water projects — where clean water is far more than comfort.

Julian — thank you. For your trust, your technology, and for moving in the same direction.
👉 More about Ocean Spring Watermakers:

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An anchor. An adventure. A mission.

Symbolic handover with weight: Franz Lindemann (Managing Director of Robert Lindemann KG) hands over a 33 kg ROCNA anchor to Anna from FYD Adventure – for safe anchoring on new expeditions.

We all know: A good anchor is more than just a piece of metal. It is what holds our ship when the wind picks up. When the current gets stronger. When we need a break – whether in a quiet bay or a stormy harbor.

This time, Robert Lindemann KG supported us with a real powerhouse: a ROCNA plow-shaped roll-bar anchor. Galvanized. Weighing 33 kilograms!

Why is a good anchor so crucial?

An anchor is to a ship what a handbrake is to a car – just with even more responsibility.

Especially on a catamaran like the one we use, the right ground tackle plays a major role. Because catamarans are wider and offer the wind more surface area to strike than a normal sailboat.

They move differently in the water – which is why they also need a particularly strong anchor (or several).

A real heavyweight: the ROCNA 33 plow-shaped roll-bar anchor is being used on our research catamaran

In a storm or strong winds, an anchor can quickly be subjected to several tons of pulling force.

For comparison: At wind force 12 – that is a hurricane with 118 km/h – forces of up to 12 tons can act on our 16-meter boat. That is like a whole truck pulling on the anchor!

That is why it is vital that our anchor sets immediately and offers maximum hold – no matter the wind, current, or waves.

Why ROCNA?

“Quite simple,” says Franz Lindemann when we ask him. “It holds. And really well.”
Sounds simple – but it is a truly special feature. “Many anchors need several attempts before they dig into the seabed. The ROCNA, on the other hand, catches on the first try,” Franz explains.

It rights itself automatically upon landing – thanks to its special roll-bar – and buries itself immediately, whether in sand, mud, or seagrass.

In the test: Comparison of a conventional anchor with a plow-shaped roll-bar anchor from ROCNA

The secret lies in the combination of the plow design and the roll-bar.

While many conventional anchors tilt sideways or only set after a fair bit of back and forth, the roll-bar ensures that the ROCNA rights itself properly on its own.

The plow design ensures that the anchor digs in immediately – and then stays where it belongs. Thanks to its sharp, curved shape, it penetrates the seabed like a wedge – regardless of whether it is sand, silt, or seagrass.

The result: Maximum hold. Minimal stress.

This system has proven itself worldwide, especially on long journeys and under demanding conditions.

Does not tip over: The roll-bar ensures that the anchor rights itself properly on its own.

The plow blade – the heart of the ROCNA anchor: Shaped like a wedge, functioning like a promise: It digs in deep and provides a secure hold – in any ground. Whether sand, silt, or seagrass – the ROCNA stays where it should.

Our choice: Four anchors for maximum safety

On our expeditions, we rely on a strong setup: four anchors on board. This keeps us flexible and prepared for any situation – whether in a storm, strong currents, or simply for a relaxing night at anchor.

Because one thing is certain: A good anchor can make the difference – between peace and chaos, comfort and stress.

Galvanized – and deeply rooted.

The ROCNA anchor is galvanized so that it can withstand the stress of the sea – rust, saltwater, time. The zinc layer protects it without weighing it down. It makes it strong, reliable, and ready for whatever comes.

Galvanized = prepared: The zinc layer protects our ROCNA anchor from rust and corrosion – for maximum durability on long expeditions in saltwater.

And somehow that reminds us of Lindemann.

The family business also carries something like a protective layer: the experience of over 75 years, grown through generations. This tradition preserves what is important – while leaving room for the new.

Just like with the anchor, this means: stability that thinks ahead. And reliability you can truly count on.

Like a good anchor: firmly anchored, grown across generations – and backed by a strong team. Robert Lindemann KG stands for stability, trust, and movement into the future.

And that is precisely why Robert Lindemann KG and the ROCNA anchor fit our mission so well.

We are delighted to have it on board – for many safe, exciting expeditions with FYD Adventure.

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Thank you, Steffen – for five years of invaluable support!

Steffen Paulus, Managing Director of Paulus & Partner GmbH, with his son Bruno in our boatbuilding workshop – a steady anchor of our project for over five years and the visible maker behind numerous high-quality printed materials

Our FYD Adventure is supported by companies all over the world – and sometimes the greatest support is very close by. The printing company Paulus & Partner GmbH from Manschnow in the beautiful Oderbruch, just 20 km away from our boatbuilding site, has been a steady anchor in our project for over five years.

• 📇 Business cards – over 2,000 pieces, always at hand
• 📄 Brochures – in three languages, on fine paper
• 📌 Posters & Plaquards – for events and our grounds
• 🚩 Advertising banners & flags – visible from afar, also at the boatbuilding site
• ⚓ Names on the mast – a very personal expression of support

Our boatbuilding workshop in the Oderbruch – featuring the FYD Adventure banner designed by Steffen Paulus, carrying our vision out into the world, visible from afar

Anyone who knows our project also knows Steffen's work – whether on our property, on television, on the cars, or directly in hand.

A heart for good design: Business cards, brochures, and world maps – all printed in high quality by Paulus & Partner GmbH. This is how our mission is communicated in a tangible, understandable, and global way.

A special moment: In front of rolling cameras, Steffen Paulus, together with Morgan (center) and Anna from the FYD team, applies the names of our supporters onto the mast – a sign of connection and appreciation

Printed in Manschnow, carried around the world: Steffen Paulus brought our partner logos to life – making our idea of community tangible

This constant, creative, and high-quality support from a local printing company is often underestimated – yet it is an integral part of international communication. Steffen never questioned it, but instead accompanied it with passion, humor, and a fine instinct for our vision.

Steffen Paulus with his son Bruno on board our research catamaran – very close to his print shop in the Oderbruch. Even during visits to the boatbuilding hall, his eye for detail was always present.

At the beginning of 2025, Steffen closed the print shop. A decision that we – and surely many others – deeply regret, but can completely understand: A company with ten employees needs more than just passion, it must also be economically viable.

We thank Steffen and his team from the bottom of our hearts for the wonderful cooperation and wish everyone a successful start into their new professional chapters. We will miss you – both personally and professionally.

The mast becomes a thank-you letter: With heart and dedication, Paulus & Partner GmbH applied the names of all those who believe in us. Every letter stands for trust, for tailwind, for lived connection. You are more than supporters – you are part of our journey

By the way: A very special part of this collaboration was the lettering on our mast – with the names of our supporters.

👉 Anyone who would still like to immortalize their name on it can still do so – in return for a donation of 100 EUR (incl. donation receipt).

Just get in touch with us – we look forward to every additional signature on our path!

This sketch shows how a great idea grows from many individual names. Become a part of our history and sail with us – on a mast that carries community, courage, and the future

By the way: The real estate of the former print shop is currently up for sale. Anyone looking to establish themselves professionally in the idyllic Oderbruch has the unique opportunity here to acquire a fully equipped commercial property with history (Steffen Paulus: 01759403681).

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From the aha-moment to the decision – how SAILTEC became part of our research adventure with an extraordinary seal

Frank and Anna from FYD Adventure in discussion with Björn Rump (CEO Sailtec) about a detail that makes all the difference.

Frank builds boats. For over 40 years.

As a boatbuilding engineer, he has seen pretty much every shaft seal out there – and believed that nothing in that field could surprise him anymore.

Until we started talking to Björn Rump from Sailtec.

Björn, managing partner of the technical supplier for boats and yachts, introduces us to a sealing system that is fundamentally structured differently from anything Frank knew before. No rubber sleeve – instead, a well-thought-out concept featuring:

• Stainless steel spring
• Graphite guide
• Silicone hose
• a stainless steel ring with two O-rings that keep the spring under constant pressure

A shaft seal system that thinks differently: with a stainless steel spring, graphite guide, silicone hose, and precise contact pressure instead of a classic rubber sleeve.

Frank listens, asks questions, holds the components in his hand – and eventually says quietly: “Okay – that’s new. And it makes sense.”

Today, the Lasdrop Gen2 shaft seal is part of our FYD Adventure catamaran. What began as a simple technical conversation is now a real project of trust – under real conditions on the high seas.

Technology meets attitude

“What do you think really makes a good shaft seal?”, Björn asks while we jointly examine the Lasdrop system at the Sailtec booth at BOOT 2025.

The answer comes precisely, almost casually – and with a smile:

“That it keeps things tight.”

The Lasdrop Gen2 system looks simple at first glance, but it is anything but ordinary. Made in the USA, built for uncompromising use at sea: robust, maintenance-free, well thought out.

High-tech where you can't see the label – but you give it your trust.

Two shafts, no margin for error

“Two shafts, zero margin for error,” Björn puts it in a nutshell. “And that is exactly what the Lasdrop system is made for.”

The special part lies in the detail

What makes the Lasdrop Gen2 so extraordinary is evident in its construction – and the logic behind it:

• Graphite instead of rubber
  A water-lubricated graphite guide holds the shaft precisely in position. It reduces vibrations, saves maintenance – and lasts longer than any rubber.

The special part lies in the detail: The water-lubricated graphite guide of the Lasdrop Gen2 holds the shaft perfectly – low-vibration, maintenance-free, and more durable than rubber.

• Flexibly sealed:
  A specially manufactured silicone tube connects the stern tube and the graphite bushing. Flexible, durable, permanently sealed.

The silicone tube connects the stern tube and the graphite bushing – flexibly mounted, seaworthy connected, permanently sealed.

• Maintaining pressure instead of giving in:
  A stainless steel part with an integrated spring sits on the shaft. Exactly 7 mm of contact pressure – constant and automatic. This spring compensates for movements – not a rubber sleeve, as is otherwise common.
  A small solution with a big effect.

Constant pressure, clever solution: The integrated stainless steel spring maintains exactly 7 mm of contact pressure – automatically and compensating, completely without a rubber sleeve.

More than just a seal: Steering wheel & dinghy system

While we are talking about shaft seals, Björn shows us two other products from Sailtec – both clear, functional, and versatile.

Light, robust, individual: The carbon steering wheel from Carbonautica brings feeling to the helm – and remains dependable in hand even in rough weather

The carbon steering wheel from Carbonautica

Soon to be part of our research catamaran – and the difference is immediately noticeable:

• Reducing weight
  The ultra-light carbon wheel brings not only less mass but more feeling to the helm.
• Staying stable when it gets rough
  Despite its lightweight construction, it is absolutely seaworthy – here the helmsman can really hold on tight, even in heavy weather.
• Designing what fits
  Shape, surface, diameter – the wheel can be customized individually. To the ship, steering station, and crew.

Tower in a Box® – recovering a dinghy without a struggle

Even though we are not installing it on board: The system honestly impressed us.

• Lifting without a feat of strength
  Even in a swell, a dinghy can be brought on board in a controlled and safe manner.
• Individually adaptable
  The tower adjusts to any boat
• More than just for the dinghy
  Outboard motors or solar panels can also be safely lifted and mounted with it. A system for tight spaces – with a surprising amount of potential for all boat types.

Tower in a Box®: The compact system safely lifts a dinghy or outboard motor on board – and it even has room for a solar panel. Stable, well-thought-out, space-saving

Test conditions: real, not simulated

Our ship is not an exhibition piece.

We sail through all climate zones, in every weather – and over years.

120,000 nautical miles. Over a million wave impacts.

For the Lasdrop seal, this means: a long-term test under real conditions.

No laboratory. No gentle operation. Instead: sea, wind, salt – and time.

A collaboration that supports

With Sailtec, we have gained a strong partner.

More than 100 companies worldwide support FYD Adventure – as a contribution to applied research, as a testing environment for maritime innovations, and as a joint project with attitude.

Handover of the intelligent Lasdrop Gen2 shaft seal: Björn from SAILTEC symbolically hands over a shaft seal to Anna from FYD Adventure

From the component to the idea, from the steering station to the lab: What connects us is the aspiration to make technology better – not for records, but for everyday life on the water.

Thank you, Sailtec

Thank you to Björn and the whole team – for trust, openness, and a system that really convinced us.

A meaningful moment: Handshake between Frank and Björn – Sailtec is one of over 100 partners supporting this project.

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Protection that moves – how fender covers accompany our journey to the edge of the sea

Sami and Mirjam from PALOMA Maritim show how it's done: The custom-embroidered cover even fits this XXL fender – custom work with style.

Protection that moves – that sounds like technology. But in our case, it means far more. When we dock our catamaran in remote bays, when we listen to whales or talk to locals about life by the sea, it is often an inconspicuous detail that makes this moment possible in the first place: our fender covers.

They cushion what happens between water and land – and give us the security to conduct research where the sea begins to tell its story. About changes, about connections, about life itself.


We dock. The water gently laps against the hull, fenders softly brush along the harbor wall. And this is exactly where it becomes clear how important every detail is: Our new fender covers from fenderbezuege.de do not just dampen the contact – they give our research catamaran a character of its own.

“We wanted people to recognize at first glance: This is more than a boat. This is a project with a soul,” says Mirjam as she hands over the custom-made covers to us at BOOT 2025.

A moment that means more than technical equipment. It is a sign of genuine support.

From an idea to conviction – fenderbezuege.de

What began as a small idea on a jetty is today a well-established name in water sports. Mirjam and Sami from fenderbezuege.de stand for tailor-made quality, genuine handcraft, and an enthusiasm that you can feel immediately.

“We wanted to create something that is not only practical but beautiful – and appreciative of what boats mean to many people,” says Sami.

Their fender covers are custom-sewn to fit perfectly, UV-resistant, durable – and above all: made with care. Each cover is unique.

Our FYD Adventure: Why these covers are more than protection

Reliable partners: Frank and Anna from FYD Adventure personally receive the new fender covers from Sami and Mirjam (PALOMA Maritim) at the trade fair – ready for the next stage of our research project

When we dock with our research catamaran – whether in a small fishing village in Scandinavia, along a wild coastline in Scotland, or in a quiet bay somewhere between two worlds – it is our fender covers that make contact first. They gently cushion the moment water meets land.

And that is exactly where our work begins.

We step off – not just to look around, but to understand.

🌊 We analyze water samples, measure chemical values, and record changes that often remain invisible – but tell us a lot about the state of our oceans.
🧠 We are working with Artificial Intelligence to decode the click sounds and songs of whales – to build a bridge between their language and us.
👣 We meet people who live with the sea: fishermen, biologists, children with questions, elders with stories. Their experiences, worries, and hopes flow into our research.
🌿 And we observe – plants, animals, currents. Above as well as under water. We listen instead of just looking.

Our FYD Adventure is not a purely scientific expedition – it is a journey into the interplay of nature, culture, and technology.

The fender covers? They are part of it. They protect our floating home every time we dock – and make it possible for us to go ashore safely to discover life where the sea and humans meet.


PALOMA Maritim – the partner in the background

Behind fenderbezuege.de is more than just a brand – it is a passion for the sea. The high-quality fender covers protect boats and extend their lifespan.

PALOMA Maritim, the company behind fenderbezuege.de, shares this vision and also offers sustainable maritime products that make life on the water easier.

The fact that fenderbezuege.de supports our project means trust to us. Their custom-made covers ensure that our catamaran remains safe, whether we dock in stormy waves or calm bays.

A highlight: Mirjam and Sami gifted us polo shirts for the crew, embroidered with their brands – a wonderful sign of their support.

What we especially like: At fenderbezuege.de, you can have almost any textile embroidered to your liking – from shoes to polo shirts to fender covers.

With fenderbezuege.de and PALOMA Maritim by our side, we know that our project is safely anchored in port as we launch into our adventure.What counts is the detail – and the attitude behind it

Right from the first unpacking and trying them on, it was clear: these covers are more than accessories. They are well thought out. Robust yet soft. Protection that fits in – without being bulky.

“We treat every boat as if it were our own,” says Sami.

And you can feel exactly that – long before we even cast off. Real togetherness – no empty promise

What excites us so much about this partnership is that it is honest.

No empty words, no marketing speak – just real people who think along, feel along, and get involved. This is exactly how we understand our FYD Adventure: as a community where everyone contributes something.

“You are on your way to make a difference,” Mirjam said as we said goodbye. “We wanted to give you something to accompany – and protect – you on this journey.”

Strong partners, strong hold: Hand in hand with Sami and Mirjam from fenderbezuege.de – their covers protect our catamaran, their support carries our idea

Thank you for your dedication – and your trust

Dear Mirjam, dear Sami – we say thank you.

Thank you for the care in every detail.

Thank you for the trust in our project.
Thank you for being on board.

Your contribution does not just protect our catamaran – it shows what is possible when passionate people work together.

Welcome aboard the FYD Adventure. We look forward to everything yet to come! 🌊🚤💙

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Nobody talks about it. Everyone wants them: toilets that can be inherited

Anna from FYD-Adventure with Ingo Froese, Managing Director of Rheinstrom, at boot 2025 in Düsseldorf - inspired by robust solutions for the next expedition.

We focus on real quality for one of the most sensitive topics on board: yacht toilets from Rheinstrom Pumpenfabrik. Our journey takes us through freezing cold, tropical heat and high waves - with two on-board toilets whose bronze pump systems are designed to show what they are really made of.

Anyone who has ever had to explain a marine toilet knows that it can be nerve-wracking - especially if there are guests on board who are unfamiliar with the system. “So... please don't throw any paper in... or do you? Pump? Lever? When? How often?” - Everyone who has ever been on a boat knows these questions.

So it's no wonder that the briefing in the ceramics department below deck regularly causes nervous grins. It is all the more reassuring when the technology behind the scenes works reliably - without electronic stress, without plastic breakages, without unpleasant odors. This is exactly what Rheinstrom Pumpenfabrik from Koblenz has stood for for over 60 years.

And yes - there really are toilets that can be passed on. Cast from bronze, built to last. What we discovered at the Rheinstrom stand at boot Düsseldorf really impressed us.

Trade fair moment: bronze you can touch

Close-up of a yacht toilet with a bronze pump system - pure technology you can touch

Anna and Frank stood in front of a Rheinstrom toilet at the trade fair - not installed, however, but completely dismantled into its individual parts. Like a technical drawing you can touch: solid bronze parts, cleanly milled valves, solid levers. No plastic, no wobbly components. Everything looks heavy, valuable - and as if it would last for decades.

Frank didn't have to think twice: “A pump system made of bronze? That sounds like technology that will travel the world with us - and won't break down.”

Meeting with the boss: a toilet like a marriage

Ingo with Anna and Frank from FYD-Adventure talking shop at the Rheinstrom stand at boot 2025 in Düsseldorf

A few minutes later, we were in conversation with Ingo Froese, Managing Director of Rheinstrom. A man who loves and knows his products - and talks about their longevity with a twinkle in his eye:

“Our toilets last longer than some marriages. 30 years and more are not uncommon.”

A sentence that resonates - and is actually backed up by a lot of feedback from boat owners. Rheinstrom customers regularly tell us about on-board toilets that have been working reliably for decades - often longer than the boat itself.

Liquids on board? Rheinstrom moves them.

Rheinstrom is no longer an insider tip. What the Koblenz-based manufacturer has been developing for over six decades has not only proven its worth - it is also regarded as a benchmark for durable on-board technology. It's not just about toilets, but about everything that has to do with liquids on board yachts, research vessels or in commercial shipping: pumping, filtering, cleaning, disposing.

Or as Ingo puts it with a smile: “We build everything that moves liquids - except maybe cocktails.”

Pumps for yacht technology - from standard solutions to customized versions, Rheinstrom offers components for every need

From fresh water tanks to sewage suction systems - Rheinstrom moves liquids on board to where they are needed. And away again:

• Pumps for fresh water, waste water and diesel
• Water pressure systems that ensure an even flow - even with long pipes
• Clarification systems for holding tanks - designed for continuous operation and long distances
• Suction stations for clean disposal in the port
• Tank sterilization with Purion - for germ-free, safe drinking water

What do all products have in common?

They last for years and always deliver the best performance. At Rheinstrom, the engineers think about every detail and ensure that every product works reliably even under extreme conditions - just as we need it to on our 10-year research trip. The technology is so robust and durable that it never lets us down on our journey through tropical heat, arctic storms and harsh weather.

The “indestructible” yacht toilet

The real star of the stand: the toilet itself. No detail seems superfluous, no part looks cheap. It is the opposite of the typical wet room that you would prefer to ignore.

“I want one!” Anna and Frank immediately fell in love with this marine toilet: the electric Rhine current toilet (model Y 10-12 V large)

“The pump system of our toilets is made entirely of bronze. No plastic, no predetermined breaking points, no wear and tear,” explains Ingo. “The technology is so good that many customers would rather replace the boat than the toilet.”

Used on our research catamaran: the classic, robust hand pump toilet from Rheinstrom, model Y2 RG large

You can tell that these products are made for real sailors - not for showrooms or charter weekends. Once you've had a Rheinstrom toilet on board, you won't want anything else.

FYD long-term test: Two toilets - manual & electric

For our 10-year research and sailing trip around the globe, Rheinstrom provided us with two toilets - not just to look at, but for real, continuous use under changing conditions:

Rheinstrom WC Y2 RG large (manual): The classic, robust hand-pump toilet - independent, reliable, powerful flushing.

Rheinstrom WC Y 10-12 V large (electric): With foot lever and hood - for more convenience, even in rough seas.

Our route takes us across five continents, extreme climate zones and difficult waters:

• Spitsbergen: Freezing temperatures, frozen pipes, clammy fingers - a toilet has to work here, even if the rest of the boat feels frozen.
• Northwest Passage: Rough weather, cutting winds and strong movement make every maneuver on board a challenge - including going to the toilet.
• Atlantic crossing: Waves, slanting, constant use - at sea, every move and every seal counts.
• Polynesia: Tropical heat, high humidity, intensive contact with salt water - here you can see how resistant the material really is.
• Changing crews: Our guests are scientists, researchers, journalists - many without any boating experience. The toilet has to be self-explanatory and robust, even with rough handling.

Both toilets are with us on our trip. They have to prove themselves in practice - in rough weather, on long trips and with different crew members who have different requirements for a functioning toilet.

The real tests are yet to come. But one thing is already certain: our bronze throne will stand faithfully by our side in the toughest moments. These toilets are not just a technical marvel, they are our reliable companion that will never let us down.

What remains after a visit to the trade fair?

Quite simply: trust. In a product that works, no matter what. In a company that listens. And in technology that not only lasts - but also looks good.

“Toilets that nobody talks about - because they simply work.”

Thank you, Rheinstrom!

A big thank you to Ingo Froese and the entire team at Rheinstrom Pumpenfabrik - for your support, your enthusiasm and your uncompromisingly good products. We look forward to many years of everyday life on board with your toilets, pumps and systems.

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Eight POLYFORM Fenders Protect the FYD Catamaran from Damage

Franz Lindemann and Anna Charlotte Wirth from FYD-Adventure during the symbolic handover of the Polyform fenders

Anyone out on the water needs equipment that has proven its worth. For nearly a century, Robert Lindemann KG has stood for quality in yacht accessories. For the past two years, the Hamburg-based company has been supporting us with our research catamaran FYD-Adventure. This time with eight Polyform fenders that protect our sailing yacht from damage.

But who is behind the company Robert Lindemann? And what does a five-story warehouse have to do with it? A look behind the scenes.

A Family Business with History

When we first met Franz Lindemann at boot 2024, it was immediately clear: the young, dynamic Managing Director lives for what he does.

“Lindemann has been around for over 90 years: family-run, now in its fourth generation. My great-grandfather built it up, my grandfather and my father developed it further, and I now get to lead it into the future with fresh ideas.”

We are impressed – and even more so when we later visit the warehouse in Hamburg. Five floors packed with marine equipment, everything for dealers, sailmakers, and boat builders. Whether classic fittings, modern winches, or indeed fenders: Lindemann offers a gigantic product range for professionals in water sports and industry – and they do so throughout Europe.

The heart of Robert Lindemann KG in Hamburg: A five-story warehouse full of marine equipment – yacht accessories are shipped throughout Europe from here.

A real highlight: The company now employs over 60 people who contribute to its success with a great deal of commitment and expertise. A fantastic team that drives Lindemann's success and passionately leads the company into the future.

Why POLYFORM Fenders?

Our new fenders come from Polyform U.S. – but what makes them so special?

Our long fenders from POLYFORM U.S. measure 76 x 28 cm.

“These fenders, made from high-quality, seamless PVC, are extremely durable, resistant to UV radiation, and available in various degrees of hardness depending on the intended use,” Franz explains.

That is exactly what we need. Our fenders have to withstand wind, weather, and heavy use.

Polyform U.S. produces for the global market and for the harshest operational environments, such as commercial deep-sea fishing. Their fenders have to perform everywhere – whether in freezing temperatures, scorching heat, strong UV exposure, or fierce storms. They are ready for worldwide use and designed for extreme conditions.

The F-series fenders from POLYFORM U.S., also known as twin-eye fenders, offer a wide selection:

They are available in 12 sizes and are seawater resistant – perfect for worldwide use.

Another quality factor is the weight: “We weighed the fenders once while they were empty – and they are heavier than many others,” says Franz. A clear sign that Polyform uses more material and prioritizes stability.

During manufacturing, Polyform uses a rotational molding process, similar to the production of chocolate Easter bunnies. The PVC used is of high quality, giving the fenders uniform strength as well as high resilience.

Franz explains how a Polyform fender is manufactured

Lindemann is not just a fender supplier – they have already supported us with several products: “You bring business and research together. Science meets practice – and on a catamaran at that!” says Franz.

Thank you, Franz, and thank you to the Lindemann team! We look forward to having your fenders on board and seeing you again soon!

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When every second counts: Weatherdock's easy2MOB for emergencies

Alfred presents the easy2MOB transmitter

Imagine you're in the middle of the ocean. All around you is water. The sky is black, the wind whistles through the sails - and then it happens: a crew member goes overboard. A misstep, a sudden wave, an unpredictable moment. A few seconds decide life or death.

What are you doing? Where's the crew member? Waves block your view, darkness swallows up all movement.

“It's precisely for this moment that we developed the easy2MOB”, explains Weatherdock co-founder Alfred Kotouczek, when we meet him and Michael Knipp at BOOT 2025 in Düsseldorf. In front of our cameras, he explains why this device can save lives. In his hand, he holds the small transmitter that has been designed precisely for this kind of situation. “Because anyone who sails at sea knows: a quick reaction can change everything.”

The easy2MOB transmitter: small, handy and easy to use

Alfred lifts the transmitter - a compact, lightweight device that fits easily in the palm of one hand. “The easy2MOB is so small you hardly notice it when you're wearing it. But when you need it, every second counts - and then it works automatically.”

Michael Knipp (left) and Alfred Kotouczek (right) from Weatherdock show Frank and Anna from FYD-Adventure how to easily stow the easy2MOB transmitter in the lifejacket.

Alfred takes the transmitter and shows how to easily attach it to a lifejacket: “The transmitter is attached to the lifejacket by a thin string. It remains discreet - but ready for use at any time.”

Alfred shows how it's done: the transmitter is attached to the lifejacket with a thin string - it stays in place, doesn't disturb and is always ready for use.

The mechanism that can save lives

Alfred explains: “The secret is water activation. As soon as the transmitter comes into contact with water, it automatically activates - in a matter of seconds. It then immediately sends out an AIS emergency signal.”

Michael adds: “AIS stands for automatic identification system. Normally, boats use it to locate each other. The easy2MOB uses this system to find people.”

Crystal clear: the VHF radio receives a 'man overboard' message - we've got to act fast!

Alfred explains on the GARMIN chartplotter what information is displayed when a MOB signal is sent.

As soon as the signal is sent, the person's position appears on the chartplotter or AIS receiver - precisely marked. “You don't have to search. You know exactly where the person is.”

And most importantly:

“In addition, a powerful alarm signal sounds on board - the MOB signal. It wakes everyone up and makes it clear that the time to act is now.”

The GARMIN chartplotter shows the exact position transmitted by the easy2MOB transmitter on the map - to the nearest centimeter.

It floats - and stays visible

But what to do when high waves block visibility?

“The easy2MOB was designed not to sink”, explains Alfred. “It floats right next to the person in the water. Even if the crew member is no longer visible, the signal remains active.”

Michael adds: “There's nothing worse than knowing someone's in the water, but not finding them. That's where our transmitter makes the difference.”

Simplicity that counts

“It's exactly what we wanted”, explains Alfred. “There are enough things that are complicated on a boat. The safety of your crew shouldn't be.”

Alfred wears a lifejacket with an integrated easy2MOB transmitter. He explains how the transmitter activates itself in the water.

Michael lifts the transmitter again: “It's light, it's small - but it's worth its weight in gold in an emergency. You wear it in your lifejacket, you hardly notice it. But if you fall overboard, it immediately sends out the signal. No need to press, no need to switch on. Just inside - and safe.”

Long battery life for maximum safety

The easy2MOB transmitter's battery doesn't need recharging every day. It is activated only when needed and lasts, depending on temperature, for at least 12 hours (-20°C) or more than 24 hours (0°C). In standby mode, energy consumption remains minimal, so the battery can last up to 5 years, depending on the model. Regular checks ensure that the transmitter is always ready for use.

Weatherdock equips FYD- team with easy2MOB transmitters

We hold the transmitters Alfred hands us. Small devices - with a big effect.
“You're often on expeditions, going to areas where there's no quick rescue. That makes it all the more important that you can rely on your technique”, explains Alfred.

Handshake with Alfred and Anna: Weatherdock equips the FYD base crew with easy2MOB transmitters.

And that's exactly what we do. Thanks to Weatherdock, our crew is now even safer on the road.

A huge thank you to Alfred, Michael and the whole Weatherdock team - for your support, for your technology and for the sense of security you give us on the road.

A skipper's desperate viewpoint

There's hardly a worse sight for a skipper: a crew member has gone overboard - somewhere out there, alone in the dark, endless water. The waves swallow up any cries for help, the cold mercilessly seizes the body. And as the seconds tick away, anxiety grows: will the missing man be found in time?

On board, everyone decides whether or not to wear a lifejacket. A decision that can make the difference between life and death. With a lifejacket, you don't sink - your head stays above water, your body is supported. But there remains a nagging question: Does anyone on board know you're missing? Or is everyone still sleeping in supposed safety?

Time is your greatest enemy. Every minute can mean the difference between rescue and disappearance. But there is a solution: a small easy2MOB transmitter in your lifejacket can make the difference between hope and despair. It immediately alerts the crew, wakes them from their sleep and starts the rescue chain.

Make sure you get that chance. Don't wait for someone to notice you - make sure you not only stay afloat, but are found.

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