Salty sea air, high humidity, narrow roads and potholes all contribute to wear and tear – but with regular upkeep, it is possible to extend the lifespan of vehicles and avoid unnecessary repairs.

Car care

Wash regularly

Cars should ideally be washed at least once a week to maintain their appearance and protect the paint. Aside from general dirt and bird droppings, salt spray is especially damaging—particularly if your vehicle is parked uncovered.

If you live near the water and don’t have a garage, it’s a good idea to rinse your car every few days. Salt can accelerate rust and paint deterioration if not removed regularly. Don’t forget to also rinse the undercarriage, where salt and moisture tend to collect.

Wax for protection

Waxing is essential and should be done regularly, as it adds a protective layer against salt, UV rays and humidity. Spray wax or sealant can be applied weekly or biweekly – ideally after washing – to provide a water-repelling barrier. For cars parked outdoors, a liquid or paste wax is a great investment and should be applied every two to three months. For extra peace of mind, consider a professional wax: it offers longer-lasting protection, sometimes up to three years.

Tyres and brakes

Winding roads and frequent potholes can be rough on tyres. Check the pressure regularly, as underinflated tyres lead to poor fuel efficiency and uneven wear. Also, inspect tread depth to ensure safe handling, especially in wet conditions.

Bermuda’s stop-and-go traffic can wear down brakes faster than you might expect. If stopping starts to feel sluggish or uneven, it’s a good idea to have them checked.

Let the pros handle the fluids

Engine oil, transmission fluid and coolant are vital to your car’s health, especially in our humid, salty climate. While these are typically checked and replaced by your mechanic during regular servicing, it’s worth knowing that staying on schedule helps prevent overheating, rust and mechanical wear.

Battery care

Humidity and salt exposure can shorten a battery’s lifespan. During regular servicing, have your mechanic check for corrosion and ensure the terminals are clean and connections secure.

Bike maintenance

Scooters and motorcycles are a way of life in Bermuda – and they deserve the same care and attention as a car if you want them to last.

Tyre and brake inspections

Make sure your tyres have solid grip and your brakes are responsive. If in doubt, have them checked by your mechanic.

Belt or chain care

Depending on the model, your bike may use either a chain or belt drive. Belt systems, common in scooters, require minimal maintenance and are typically serviced by a mechanic. Chain-driven bikes, more common on larger or older models, need regular cleaning and lubrication – something many riders handle themselves – though adjustments and replacements are best left to the pros.

Lights and signals

Make sure your headlights, brake lights and indicators are working properly. Faulty lights can be both dangerous and illegal, so it’s worth checking them regularly.

Battery and fuel

If you don’t ride daily, your bike’s battery may drain faster in Bermuda’s humid climate. Regular short rides can help keep it charged: a trip to the grocery store; you don’t need to journey from St George’s into Hamilton. If your bike will sit for extended periods, speak to your mechanic about storage tips.

Rust prevention

Like cars, bikes suffer from salt exposure. Rinse off road grime and apply rust-resistant treatments where needed.

Boat management

Maintaining your boat is essential for its longevity and performance. The island offers a variety of professional maintenance services but if you are up to doing it yourself, here’s our advice:

Engine and fuel

Before every outing, give your boat’s engine a quick check to ensure it’s running smoothly. Inspect fuel lines for cracks, wear, or leaks, and make sure all connections are secure. Always use fresh fuel to avoid clogging and engine trouble. This is particularly important for boats that sit on moorings for extended periods as condensation or stale fuel can cause problems.

Bilge pumps and electrical systems

A reliable bilge pump is essential, especially during heavy rain or if your vessel sits on a mooring. Test your bilge pump regularly to ensure it activates automatically and pumps water efficiently. Clear any debris that might block the float switch or drain.

Electrical systems should also be checked routinely. Corrosion from salt and moisture can affect wiring, lights and battery terminals. Look for signs of rust, frayed wires or loose connections, and make sure your battery is holding a charge. If you’re unsure, have a marine electrician inspect everything to avoid failures when you’re out on the water.

Hull and propeller care

Saltwater buildup can damage your boat’s hull and propellers. Rinse your boat with fresh water after each trip and check for any damage or marine growth. Especially if your boat is moored for long periods, look out for barnacles or algae buildup. Use a plastic scraper to gently remove barnacles as metal tools can scratch the surface if not used carefully. Once the large growth is gone, scrub the area with a stiff brush and a boat-safe hull cleaner or mild soap to remove any remaining residue. For algae, a simple scrub with fresh water and a soft brush usually does the trick. If buildup is severe, a professional bottom cleaning or haul-out may be needed.

Storage and covers

Protect your boat when not in use by storing it properly and using a cover to preserve your upholstery, electronics and finish from the sun and salt spray.

Whether you own a car, bike, or boat in Bermuda, regular upkeep is the key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and looking its best. The island’s salty air, humidity and challenging road and sea conditions can accelerate wear and tear, but with consistent care and the occasional professional check-up, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your investment.

• Sources for this article include sefinancial.com; nationwide.com; bridgestonetire.com.

The post Keeping it running appeared first on RG Magazines.

Whether you want to relax on top, dive down beneath or have fun doing both, the boat charter business in Bermuda is booming and we are spoiled for choice. Sunset cruises, daytime adventures, wildlife encounters and sailing excursions: here are some of the best ways to enjoy Bermuda by boat.

Sail Bermuda

One of the most luxurious ways to enjoy the island’s waters is by catamaran and Sail Bermuda’s Wyuna and Elusive are hard to beat.

Available for private charters only, Wyuna, is 47 feet and can accommodate up to 35 passengers. Elusive is 44 feet and accommodates up to 25.

For fun, both offer kayaks, paddle boards, flotation noodles, snorkelling equipment and an inflatable raft. For entertaining, there is comfortable seating both inside and out, speakers and beanbags. Daytime, evening and corporate experiences are all available, and trips can be customised.

“When we get people on board, we talk to them to see what criteria they want to meet,” said Sail Bermuda co-owner, Jono Dill.

“Whether it’s paddleboarding, snorkelling, cliff jumping, just relaxing on the boat, sailing around and then from there, we tailor the day to whatever they want to do.”

Mr Dill has a lot of favourite spots.

“For sailing, aesthetically, the West End of the island is really beautiful because you’ve got all the different reefs and the sand banks out there. The Vixen, Cambridge Beaches, Ely’s Harbour is really nice.”

However, he also enjoys going down the North Shore because “it’s nice and open for sailing”.

When he gets the chance, he relishes the opportunity to sail around St George’s, but that would be a long charter as his boats are kept in Dockyard.

The more adventurous guests, on a calm day, can go to the outer reef line for offshore snorkelling.

What’s a boat trip without sustenance? Sail Bermuda has its recommended regular caterers, but guests are welcome to use others or bring their own, and the crew will make the process as easy as possible.

“You get in contact with the caterer and after that, they’ll get in contact with us and we liaise with them to pick it up. You just arrive to the boat and it’s all there waiting for you.”

They have also hosted parties with an on-board chef and waiters, DJs and even live music. Through partnerships with local water sports companies can arrange other activities including freediving, scuba diving, water skiing, wakeboarding and jet skiing.

Some of Mr Dill’s most memorable charters, however, have involved children.

“Sometimes, we’ll get younger kids on and you can literally see them producing core memories while they’re on board here, and just to be a part of that is pretty cool.”

• Sail Bermuda charters are a minimum of three hours, and the maximum is a 10pm finish. For more information, including pricing, visit sailbermuda.com.

Wildlife Watching

If you want to see whales, seabirds or simply enjoy a coastal cruise, boat trips on the Bermuda Aquarium Museum & Zoo’s Endurance or Callista are a must. Their experienced captains and guides not only care deeply about the wildlife and ecosystems they are sharing with their passengers, but their knowledge is world-class too.

In addition to whalewatching, tours include a pelagic sea birdwatching trip with the Bermuda Audubon Society, North Rock Snorkel Adventure and the Cahow Watching Pelagic boat trip. There is also a Harrington Sound Coastal Cruise, during which passengers get to see longtail nests up close.

• For further details about all BAMZ boat tours and prices, visit https://bamz.resqwest.com/web/.

El Zorro

The ultimate party boat for kids and adults, El Zorro, formally known as the PlayPen, is that giant motor yacht you might have seen anchored offshore with the double-decker inflatable slide on one side and a large inflatable raft at the back. Full of other water toys such as fishing rods, kayaks, paddle boards and noodles, they play host to relaxed picnics, fun BBQs, large cocktail parties and even more formal dinners, with long tables and chairs. Daytime, evening or a bit of both, they offer private charters only, which are fully customisable.

• Charters start at $775 per hour for 25 people. For cocktail cruises, they can take up to 100 people. For swimming and water fun, the maximum is around 50 or 60. For more information visit @elzorrobermuda on Instagram, look them up on Facebook, or call 300-8692.

Rising Son Cruises

Available for both private and public charters is Rising Son’s flagship catamaran, Rising Son II, a custom built 60-foot sailing catamaran, and their newest addition to the fleet, the 65-foot, Filante. If private charters aren’t in your budget, you can book one of their three hour snorkel tours for $85 per adult and $65 per child, or their two hour Champagne Sunset Sail for $75 per adult.

• For more information and booking, visit risingsoncruises.com

Glass Bottom Boat Trips

If you want to enjoy what goes on below the surface without getting wet, the Glass Bottom Boat Cruise from Captain Kirk’s Coral Reef Adventures, might be the boat trip for you. At $65 per adult and $45 per child, it’s a fun family excursion. Leaving from Dockyard, the 90-minute tour will take in coral reef sea gardens, the HMS Vixen and all the sealife in between.

• For more information visit kirksadventures.com

Water skiing & Wake boarding

For sheer fun and adrenaline, book a trip on Kent Richardson’s motor boat for some water skiing, wake boarding and tubing. From beginners to experts, kids to grandparents, he has taught them all. Prices start at $280 per hour and include all equipment.

• For more information visit bermudawaterski.com.

The post Bermuda by boat appeared first on RG Magazines.

Vintage cars, custom cars, trucks and power boats, alongside BMXs, go-karts, acrobats, dancers and Gombeys will be out in force at the ScooterMart Motor Fest.

Playing the starring role at the seventh annual festival on Sunday, June 29, however, will be a spectacular number of motorbikes.

“For starters, we’ve got a 600cc Yamaha R6 stunt bike, that has been purpose built in Bermuda, and it’s going to be ridden by an international rider, Clutchup Corey,” said David Cahill, director of motor sports promoter, Bermuda Charge, which organises the event.

The Yamaha R6 is Mr Cahill’s own and has been converted into a stunt bike with the help of Kenneth DeSilva, owner of Custom Mechanics. As well as the stunt bike, spectators can enjoy seeing scramblers, mopeds, scooters, Mobylettes and drag bikes.

His personal favourites are the Yamaha V80s and V50s.

“They are so vibrant, colourful and personalised,” he said. “Many of them have personal messages painted on them, decals, small touches that make them really fun bikes.”

Honouring the Bermuda bike culture

Bikes that have stood out over the years include a custom Triumph named Goldeneye, created by Stephen Rodrigues who owns SPR Auto & Finishing, and the 2024 People’s Choice award winner, which was a hot pink Yamaha V50 owned by a 16-year-old girl.

“It’s really nice to see that youth generation is getting involved and keeping that tradition alive,” he said.

Tradition, along with Bermuda’s history and culture, is one of the main reasons behind the dominance of motorbikes at Motor Fest, and is a driving force behind Scooter Mart’s involvement.

“We enjoy keeping the culture of bikes alive. We understand the significance to our culture and to our traditions as Bermudians. If no one does this, we’re running the risk of that tradition dying out,” said Scooter Mart’s owner and director, Nick Thomson, in whose heart Mobylettes have a particularly special place.

“The Mobylettes and those early motorcycles that were around in the 1950s and 60s, that was the first time young people could have their own transportation beyond the bicycle,” he said.

“It made mobility accessible to an entire generation. There’s something to be said for our culture and how important motor cycles were, especially for a certain generation, and we’d like to continue that on.”

Using his father as an example, Mr Thomson laughed that if he needs a light bulb changed, “he’ll call someone,” but when he gave his Dad a 1971 Mobylette for Christmas, “he took apart the entire engine in our living room and told me what every single part was.”

Mr Cahill emphasised that motorbikes still remain significant to Bermuda’s culture.

“Bermuda is unique and you can’t avoid being connected to motorcycles. We have the one-car-per-household rule so, no matter who you are, you’re going to be around bikes.”

“They bridge the divide across all demographics,” added Mr Thomson. “That’s why we’re known for the diversity of our crowd at Motor Fest. It’s because everybody is connected through bikes.”

Freedom on two wheels

Bermuda is also ideally set up for using motorbikes as a primary form of transportation. There’s free parking, while maintenance, licensing and insurance costs are a fraction of what they are for cars.

The cost factor, said Mr Thomson, also means that bikes represent “independence and freedom” for a large portion of people.

He noted Bermuda has more registered bike riders per capita than anywhere else in the world.

While bikes play a crucial role in Bermuda’s motoring history, bike enthusiasts span the globe and this year’s Motor Fest will play host to the largest international contingent in the event’s history.

In addition to stunt rider, Clutchup Corey, international guests include North West 200 director, Mervyn Whyte, “world leading motorcycle builder”, J Shia, YouTuber, Matt Goodwin, who will be covering Motor Fest for his popular channel, High Peak Autos and multiple Isle of Man TT champion, Steve Plater.

The Isle of Man TT has been dubbed “statistically the most dangerous race in the world”, where riders can reach speeds of around 200 miles per hour.

“It’s highly challenging. There aren’t many humans that can complete the race let alone finish first,” praised Mr Cahill.

“Steve Plater brings with him a huge amount of experience and accomplishment and we’re excited to welcome him as a guest to inspire Bermuda’s young riders.”

The event will also have its first international booth, from Stoltzfus Logistics International: “The owner of the company is a motorcycle collector and a big fan of Bermuda,” said Mr Cahill.

Local talent however, remains an essential component of Motor Fest and few people encapsulate this more than paint detailing legend, Robbie Rogers, whose clients win or are placed every year.

This year, he is making a comeback in his own name, presenting his own bike.

“It’s going to be special,” he hinted. “It will definitely be something that’s worth their time to see.”

All the fun of the fair

Motor Fest isn’t just about admiring the vehicles, it will also be action-packed with stunts and speed tests; motorcycle, drag bike and go-kart showcases; power boat and jet ski racing; a BMX show; remote control cars and bikes; and the concluding ride-out.

One of the most popular races is the CG Slow Race, where competitors compete for a year’s worth of free CG insurance by being the slowest across 50 yards.

There’s one catch: you can’t put your feet down. And, just for fun, this year Steve Plater will be taking part too.

“We’ll have one of the fastest men on the planet competing to be the slowest rider in Bermuda,” laughed Mr Cahill.

Every year Motor Fest goes from strength to strength, garnering support from some of Bermuda’s most high profile companies, most enthusiastic petrolheads, motoring devotees and graphic artists.

“It is the premier bike and vehicle show,” Mr Rogers said.

“Who wouldn’t want to be part of it, if you have some custom or special vehicle? It is the show. There’s none other like it.”

The post Unbelievable bikes appeared first on RG Magazines.

Potholes and bumpy roads are more than an uncomfortable inconvenience on your drive into town – they are racking up damage for your vehicle too.

Auto dealers highlighted the poor state of our roads as one of their top concerns about the motor industry in Bermuda today.

“We are replacing more tyres than we’ve ever replaced,” said Glen Smith, managing director at Auto Solutions.

“It comes from wear and tear, because the roads aren’t even. We also find when the cars come in the wheel alignment is out of whack.”

Your vehicle’s suspension, carburettor and even the windscreen can also suffer.

Harry Andrews, operations manager at Auto Solutions, explained: “When you’re driving a car on these roads, there are constant vibrations. So, when your car hits a pothole, particularly in the older models, the chassis moves.

“You wonder where the crack in the windscreen is coming from – that’s where it’s coming from. In severe cases you can even bend your shock if you hit a pothole in the wrong way.”

Stephen Davidge, the general manager of Eurocar, said: “Everyone’s aware there are more potholes popping up everywhere. The rain degrades the roads everywhere, the holes get bigger, and we get more of them.

“Unfortunately, the inability to patch them up or repave the roads to make them smoother for vehicles has led to more wear and tear on suspension parts and other parts due to vibrations.”

But is all this repair work good for business?

“At the end of the day, I have a car myself – it affects everyone,” Mr Davidge said.

“It’s about trying to avoid the potholes as best you can, or slow down as you go over them.”

The Ministry of Public Works has repeatedly acknowledged the poor state of the roads but has been beset by difficulties trying to fix them.

The island’s asphalt facilities broke down in 2023, and efforts to install a replacement asphalt plant has been plagued by delays. This has been compounded by heavy rainfall and flooding.

In February, former public works minister Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch said the new plant would not be operational until 2026. In the meantime, the Highways section has been patching up potholes.

“The unreliability of these machines — the asphalt plant, and asphalt miller in particular, cause the asphalt teams to slow their production and delivery,” Colonel Burch said at that time.

Mr Smith said residents can help themselves.

“We implore people to come here and get their car serviced every six months so we can stay on top of this type of stuff,” he said.

“There are bolts that have to be tightened back up because of the vibration, for example.”

He added: “Everybody looks to Government to do something, but when I was growing up, it was up to you to maintain your property on the road. We all play a role in this. Government’s role is to maintain the highway. But we have to cut our hedges. And quite frankly if you’re doing that why wouldn’t you take out the tumbleweeds at the same time?”

Going electric

After years of frustration about the slow pace of change, the door finally opened to more electric vehicles when new legislation passed in the House of Assembly last June.

This allowed Auto Solutions to import the electric Hyundai Kona, which was 0.85 inches too wide according to the old law – and is now selling 15 to 20 per month.

“We got a very good response from Hyundai, and they sped up some orders for us,” Mr Andrews said.

“It’s very popular: very modern, the interior is finished well. The feedback from the customers has been very positive. Aesthetically it looks nice. It’s a real winner for us.”

Hybrid and electric versions of the Hyundai are available at Auto Solutions, as well as hybrid Suzuki and Honda models, and the classy custom RBW.

The search for smaller electric vehicles continues, however.
“We are hoping to get one or two in the next 12 or 18 months, because not everyone wants a big H class or I class car,” Mr Andrews said.

“If you look at the market, if we can get a hybrid in D or E class, we think it will be a winner as well.”

He praised the Department of Transport, former minister Wayne Furbert and fellow dealerships for collaborating to complete the legislation change.

Mr Smith believes the electrical revolution will continue at a gradual pace.

“Right now, worldwide, all these countries have a mandate to be all electric by 2030. My understanding is it’s not going to happen,” he said.

“The technology to build these cars and make them affordable is not there yet. There are other technologies coming into play in larger countries.”

Mr Andrews said: “We are seeing a shift towards hybrid. My ordering pattern has changed, as hybrids are gaining traction. I think model availability will dictate that more and more.”

At Eurocar, the law change has not made any difference yet, but Mr Davidge aims to bring the electric Jeep Avenger within a few months.

“It’s a very good vehicle and there’s lots of interest in it already,” he said.

He noted an international trend towards hybrids, but said fully electric vehicles could be more attractive in Bermuda, where people don’t have to drive long distances.

“We need charging stations. If more people are going to have electric vehicles, the infrastructure around that would have to be there,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bermuda Motors offers the popular electric Mini and is planning to introduce the electric Kia Niro and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 225 plug-in hybrid.

According to general sales manager Sebastian Cornet, it’s a “patience game” while we wait for smaller vehicles to become available.

Mr Cornet said: “At some point, smaller vehicles will be electrical and will be available. We are not a priority market for these brands. It’s very expensive to put this new technology in small cars.

“I hope that with time, at some point we will have some. The question is when.”

The post Bumpy Bermuda appeared first on RG Magazines.

The wear and tear can add up quickly as you trundle to Hamilton and back five days a week, meaning you can often end up with an expensive repair bill or, even worse, having to buy a new car long before you hoped. 

One of the island’s longest serving mechanics, GB’s Auto in King Street, offered some advice on maintaining your vehicle in Bermuda’s trying conditions. 

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD 

Avoid roads with sharp turns where you can. 

GB’s Auto said: “When you are doing a lot of turning, you are putting more stress on your vehicle. It puts more wear and tear on the front end of the vehicle: the steering and the suspension and even the tyres. 

“We always encourage people to travel on straighter roads as opposed to roads that have a lot of turns. 

“You can’t always avoid winding roads in Bermuda, but if you have to travel to Somerset, for example, you could go on the South Shore as opposed to Middle Road. The likelihood of an accident is greater on those twising roads too.” 

POTTY OVER POTHOLES 

They’ve seemed to pop up everywhere as Bermuda’s infrastructure has borne the brunt of relentless heavy rain in recent months. The problem has been compounded by asphalt machinery being out of action. 

Even in good times, potholes and other obstacles can cause issues with steering, suspension and tyres. 

The best thing you can do is to drive carefully and safely around them and keep good habits when it comes to regular maintenance. 

“You should always get the pressure checked and timely tyre rotation will help,” GB’s Auto said. 

“If you read your service manuals, most give you guidelines on what you need to do. People can do online research – that helps as well. 

“People that keep their cars regularly properly serviced are less likely to be confronted with emergency issues, although there will always be some things beyond your control, like the electrical parts.” 

DON’T GET SALTY 

It’s most noticeable after a heavy storm when you need to wash thick layers of it from your windscreen, but salt is a perpetual difficulty for our vehicles. We are in the middle of an ocean, after all. 

GB’s Auto said: “Salt is always in the air. After a winter storm, you can wash the car with warm water to break the salt down. Or at least hose the vehicle down with fresh water. 

“If you don’t do anything about it, salt will sit on the vehicle. Over time the saline will get into places it doesn’t need to, and lead to corrosion.” 

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR! 

Expensive car maintenance is an unfortunate fact of life in Bermuda – but if you try to cut corners you can end up in an even bigger spot. 

GB’s Auto said: “When vehicles get out of warranty, people will shop around, and one of their questions is how much will it cost? They don’t ask what they are getting for the service. 

“If he’s going to charge you $100, you can bet your bottom dollar he won’t be spending much time on the vehicle. 

“If a mechanic isn’t spending much time on your vehicle, he won’t be putting it on the lift and inspecting the undercarriage and looking for any damage. There’s lots of other things they need to be checking too, like the tyre pressure, the lights, the brakes and making sure there isn’t any corrosion. You are not doing all that in under an hour. 

“You take care of the small things and the big things will take care of themselves.” 

The post It’s a rough road appeared first on RG Magazines.

“Operating a vehicle without the minimum insurance can lead to traffic offences and fine,” according to Melvin Howes, supervisor of personal lines, property and casualty at CG Insurance. 

But on top of the legal requirements, motor insurance gives peace of mind by providing financial protection, personal safety and third-party liability. 

With that in mind, selecting your motor insurance and understanding exactly what’s covered is the next hurdle. It’s important to consider what is the right coverage depending on your circumstances. 

“If you own an expensive vehicle, it is recommended to invest in comprehensive coverage to safeguard it against unforeseen events, like accidents, damages, theft and collisions,” said Mr Howes. 

While selecting the coverage necessary for your needs you may come across terms that can often be confusing. Terms like “insurable value” most often refers to the estimated value of the vehicle, this pertains to the worth of a new or used vehicle. Generally, the value of a vehicle typically depreciates over time due to its age. 

A “deductible” on the other hand is the initial amount the policyholder must pay before their insurance policy covers damages to their vehicle. For example, Mr Howes explained, if your car policy has a $500 deductible and you have an accident that causes $3,000 in repairs to your vehicle, you would be responsible to pay the first $500 deductible, and then your insurance would cover the remaining $2,500. 

If you are involved in an accident, it’s essential to understand how to navigate the claims process. 

Mr Howes recommends the following to efficiently navigate the process: 

1. Prioritise safety by ensuring everyone’s wellbeing, adhering to standard procedures and by contacting authorities immediately after the accident. 
2. Exchange information with the involved parties. 
3. If possible, capture photos of the accident scene including any damage. 
4. Without delay, contact your insurance provider’s claims department to initiate the claims process, providing all necessary details and documentation. 
5. Your assigned claims officer will confirm your extent of cover and the next steps within the claims process. 

To gain a comprehensive understanding of what will be covered, you should refer to your policy documentation. 

Review the terms and conditions outlining the extent of coverage based on the policy you purchased. It’s also important to note that there is generally a requirement to notify your insurer of a pending claim within a specific timeframe, which is typically within 14 days of the accident. 

Most insurers will also promote safe and responsible driving which can then result in discounts for their policyholders, so it really does pay to be a good driver!

The post Motor insurance for beginners appeared first on RG Magazines.

Darrel Mellor, the co-owner of Current Works, stumbled onto the job. He was studying business in England when he was assigned to the offices of a garage as part of his work placement. 

“I just got more interested in terms of what was happening in the garage: hanging out with the guys and seeing what was going on. I didn’t know anything about cars when I got into it. It was just solving problems, fixing things, pretty much like a grown-up version of Lego I guess.” 

With his interest piqued, he enrolled in “a structured modern apprenticeship”, an option he wishes was available here. 

“This is the problem. It’s something Bermuda doesn’t have,” said Mr Mellor, who is City & Guilds qualified and a certified advanced automotive engineer. 

“In the UK you go to a college and they find you a workplace. So I spent four days a week working in a garage and one day a week at college learning the theory behind it all.” 

In the garage, there was a flow chart that tracked his work, ensuring specific targets were met. 

“Basically in the industry you can decide where you want to go. You can stay at the level of just being a tyre fitter or you can drive forward and become a diagnostic technician, something that’s more complex. Just like in a hospital where you have your nurses, your doctors and surgeons, there’s different levels of where you can get to.” 

For Mr Mellor, the more he learnt, the more he wanted to know. As such, he began working on electric vehicles long before they were a common sight on Bermuda’s roads. He is a certified electric/hybrid vehicle technician with credentials from Renault, Mercedes-Benz, Chrysler, Jeep, Kia and Citroen. 

“The EVs, over the last few years – people have been taken by surprise because there aren’t really trained technicians to deal with them. They’re coming onto the market faster than the workforce can keep up with. The older people in the trades are retiring or getting away from it and you’re getting fewer younger people coming into the trade,” he said. 

For a mechanic, staying ahead means working in what would otherwise be spare time. Mr Mellor takes online courses to prepare and then travels to the UK or the Caribbean at least once every two years for hands-on training and certification. 

“You have to want it,” he said. “A lot of people go to work for 40 hours a week, go home at night and just watch TV or something. 

“When I worked in the UK it was easier because courses were local. I worked in dealerships and they would send you on training. Here in Bermuda I used to work for Eurocar and they would send me on training. But then once I went into what’s called ‘the aftermarket’ and then eventually opened up my own business, I had to source all of that myself and pay for it myself. Now I have my own company and the company pays for it.” 

Current Works was created through a partnership with Piers Carr in 2020. The range of offerings is more diverse than some might think. It services Current Vehicles’ fleet of Twizys, small electric cars that are available for hire, out of a full-service garage that is also open to the public. 

“I designed the structure pretty much like a hospital where you have your junior technicians and then your more senior technicians and your diagnostic technicians,” Mr Mellor said. 

“Complex diagnostics are done by the more experienced technicians and then the other work is passed on to the junior technicians.” 

Junior technicians have the benefit of in-house training with the idea to “level them up”. 

There are six people on staff. 

“In the beginning it was difficult because it was a start-up but our reputation is growing, people are hearing about us and it’s a great place to work with a good environment. So now we’re reaching out to get more staff but the hardest part is obviously qualified Bermudians because there’s no structured pathway in Bermuda for this industry. So most people have to go overseas to get their initial qualifications.” 

At Current Works, technicians start at “level one” and must commit to online training courses and work that becomes progressively more difficult. 

For anyone training to become an electric technician, the first two levels will be mostly dedicated to recognising the dangers: the health and safety measures essential for work on a high voltage system. 

“There are a lot more risks involved. Making the wrong move can result in death. You have to know what to focus on, making sure you know what to deal with before you go anywhere near it,” Mr Mellor said. 

“We have the appropriate equipment and PPE for working on those. Obviously it’s a different technology. You still have your brakes and suspension, windscreen wipers and regular things, but the whole drive system is completely different. It does take an extra level of training.” 

As there is a shortage of mechanics worldwide, it is a great career opportunity for young people, he added. 

“A lot of youngsters today just want to go into IT or social media or whatever. We still need these people but without a dedicated programme in Bermuda to try and get people, it is difficult.” 

As a workaround Mr Mellor is building an “apprenticeship and technician certification pathway” for Current staff. 

“I work with the Institute of the Motor Industry in the UK, called the IMI, so we have an agenda to create our own so we can train people and give people qualifications in-house, but that’s further down the line.” n

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Its aim then and now: to get young people across the island out on the water sailing, while learning about Steam. That some go on to pursue a career in the industry is a bonus for the charity, which opened its doors in 2015. 

“We have about 15 different industry partners we work with: Marine & Ports, marine charities and organisations related to the ocean. What we’re finding is we’re having the next generation of Bermudians involved in the maritime industry through this programme,” said Jennifer Pitcher, Endeavour’s executive director. 

“They’re going on to get experience or education and it’s really great to see, when we go to some of these places, that we’ve got alumni working in them. It’s really nice to see Bermudians connect with other Bermudians: ‘Oh, I did that programme a few years ago now look where I am.’” 

Endurance is accredited by the Royal Yachting Association in the UK. The lessons come from an international syllabus that teaches sailing fundamentals. 

Many students start with the Middle School Programme, a five-day Steam course offered at every public and private school on the island. 

“It really is an opportunity for all young people to get that exposure to our waters, and help them to develop that confidence that they need,” Ms Pitcher said. 

“A lot of our students, it’s their first time going on the water, being on a boat, so we really start with the basics and both teachers and students report that they do see improvement in these skills.” 

Science, technology, engineering, arts and maths are brought in through such concepts as buoyancy, sailing geometry, wind measurement and wind power. Students are taught about ocean sustainability and the need to protect our beaches and reefs from pollution. 

The BF&M No Limits Sailing Programme is for public school students ages five and older who are on the autism spectrum or have other developmental challenges. 

“The modules might be a little bit different in terms of additional sensory activities but we have received really positive feedback from both parents and teachers,” said Ms Pitcher, who is thrilled that even some of the nonverbal students “are saying words like sailing” and asking when they can return. 

Equally impressive is the progress of students who were not confident at the start. 

“We have students that are fearful to get on the water in all of our programmes at the beginning – especially if they have any trauma or phobias – and we’re really proud of our team and the students for overcoming these barriers,” Ms Pitcher said. 

“By the second day or third day they’re overcoming them and they’re getting on the safety boat, which is our coach boat, or in some cases, they’re getting on a sailboat. 

“They’re sailing independently, which just makes my heart burst. It’s just a tremendous transformation.” 

The Graduate Programme offers students a chance to further develop their skills and confidence on the water during weekends and school breaks. 

“One of the key goals is to really have them get out of their comfort zone not just by getting out in the water, but making new friends with people that they wouldn’t otherwise interact with.” 

The Maritime Career Springboard Programme is a seven-week leadership scheme open to students 16 and older. 

“The students that come through gain that leadership experience and also they get a sense for: is this something that I want to do? Do I want to be a sailing instructor? Do I like teaching? Do I like coaching? It really is a great opportunity for them.” 

For more information on the Endeavour programmes visit www.endeavour.bm 

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No more searching the small ads for a used car and worrying whether it’s been well looked after or having to deal with potential buyers coming to your house and haggling over price. 

The “hassle” of all that, as well as the time spent at TCD, is removed, according to Damien Donfield, the company’s certified pre-owned sales specialist, who worked at a multi-franchise dealer in Dublin for three decades before coming to the island. 

“It’s peace of mind,” he said, explaining how every car sold by the division has been given a “comprehensive, multi-point health check and safety test” and comes with a warranty for 12 months or 12,000km – whichever comes first – from the date you buy it. 

Auto Solutions managing director Glen Smith added: “It’s taken a lot of the uncertainty away.” 

Mr Smith said the company lobbied the Government for several years for permission to sell second-hand cars. 

Last year, a pilot scheme was agreed on and it has gone really well. 

“I’m quite confident that it will go into a long-term change,” he added. 

He said Mr Donfield “built the business from the ground up” after arriving in April 2023 and it had gone from strength to strength since launching in July. 

“We have a litany of clients that want certified, pre-owned vehicles,” said Mr Smith, explaining that Auto Solutions can take in and resell up to 20 cars a month at present. 

Mr Donfield added: “We’re matching cars to clients. At the moment we are pre-selling a lot of our stock. 

“We are struggling to get enough cars. We need more cars all the time.” 

Auto Solutions customers can trade-in or sell their cars, eight years or younger, to the company, providing they have a full service history and no previous heavy costs for bodywork. 

The certified pre-owned team will evaluate the vehicle’s condition, age, mileage and market value before providing a price. 

The division’s motto is that every car sold is a new car to the person buying it. 

“Even though they are second-hand cars, it’s your money and they need to look well,” said Mr Donfield. 

“We want the car mechanically sound. We have a service history, so we can see the history and the path that it has taken to this stage. 

“We prepare the bodywork. The idea is that everything about the car, from the physical to the mechanical, is in as much of a new condition as it’s possible to get.” 

He added: “Just because they are three, four, five, six years old, shouldn’t mean they should be any less desirable.” 

Mr Smith said a major benefit was that Auto Solutions dealt with all the paperwork, from the TCD transfer test to insurance. 

“We do everything, soup to nuts,” he said. “We are here to facilitate a service that has been needed for a long time, of taking the hassle away.” 

Mr Donfield said many locals found the idea of buying a second-hand car from a dealer “unusual” but had embraced it. 

“We are not reinventing the wheel but a lot of people wouldn’t have come across it before,” he said. 

“Everything we’ve sold so far, it has gone well. If a customer has been decent enough to come to Auto Solutions to get their car serviced, we are now passing on that investment to the new buyer.” 

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Linda Down is head of boat sales at PW Marine and has spent most of her adult life getting people out onto the water safely, and in a boat they are comfortable with. She talked us through everything you need to know about buying and maintaining the best boat for you. 

BUDGET 

One of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make is not understanding all the costs and facts before they “dive in”. 

If you are looking for a brand-new boat, the lowest starting price, she said, is in the region of $45,000. 

That could get you a 13-foot Boston Whaler. “That’s the smallest in our line-up, turnkey,” she added. 

Turnkey means the boat is registered, inspected, clean, fuelled-up, has anti-fouling paint on the bottom, the warranties are in effect, and all the safety gear is on board. Literally, all you need to do is turn the key. 

In addition to Boston Whalers, PW Marine also sells Pursuit Boats, Tiara Yachts, Valhalla Boatworks Boats, Sea Rays and Viking Yachts, all of which come in a variety of sizes, the largest being the Vikings, which range from 38 up to 90 feet. 

If the cost of a brand-new boat is out of reach, you can try the second-hand market. PW Marine can help there too, as long as it’s a boat they know. “We tend to only represent the boats that we service so we know the history of them,” said Ms Down. 

While the cost of a pre-owned boat depends on a huge number of factors, particularly age and condition, she estimated that $45,000 could probably get you a 20-foot boat while a second hand 13-foot Boston Whaler could potentially be scooped up for about $20,000. 

If you are buying a pre-owned boat directly from the seller, and aren’t familiar with boats yourself, she recommended getting advice from someone who is, “to avoid the headache of buying something that isn’t what it appears to be.” 

ONGOING COSTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

When budgeting for boat ownership, you also need to account for the ongoing maintenance, storage, servicing, registration, insurance and other costs that keep your boat afloat. 

Registration: When your boat arrives in Bermuda, or if you buy a second-hand boat, you must register it in your name with the Department of Marine and Ports Services. Registration must be renewed each year, between April 1 and May 31. The fees are determined by the boat’s length. 

SERVICING: 

Boats have to come out of the water annually to be serviced. At PW Marine, continued Ms Down, “we power wash and repaint the bottom, we do the engine service, we put wax on the sides of the boat. Any customer issues, or things that need to be addressed are done at that time.” 

INSURANCE: 

Unlike cars, by law, boats don’t have to be insured, but Ms Down highly recommended it, especially if your boat is new. If you keep your boat in a marina, however, she said, “they always have a liability clause so you have to have liability insurance to a certain value in case you damage someone else’s boat.” 

Storage: Part of the equation of buying a boat is finding somewhere to keep it. PW Marine has their own marina but, at the time of writing, it was full, with a waiting list. If you are buying a boat from them, Ms Down will reach out to others in the industry to help owners find a good spot: 

“To make your boating experience fun, you really want to have easy access to it. It needs to be convenient. If you’ve got to jump on a dinghy and row out three miles to get on your boat, it’s not going to be as convenient.” 

HURRICANE PLAN: 

Every owner needs a plan for their boat when a hurricane comes. “All marinas will have a mandatory evacuation so you do need somewhere to put the boat,” warned Ms Down. If your boat is moored in protected waters and tied down correctly, that might be OK, as long as another boat doesn’t slam into it. PW Marine offers a hurricane haulage and storage service for their clients. 

THE FUN STUFF 

Once your budget has been determined, the fun can begin. What size and type of boat are you going to get? 

Ms Down’s first question is what the customer’s expectations of boating are and after that she discusses the layout and configuration based on what they want to use it for. “There’s centre consoles, dual consoles, there’s boats with cabins, there’s boats that are set for mostly cruising and recreational. For most of them, you can add on fishing features,” she said. For boats with manageable wakes, a tow bar for water sports is also a fun option. 

If you want to go outside the reef, Ms Down recommended a minimum boat size of 20 feet. Some buyers have also chosen to add seakeepers, which, she explained, “stabilise the boat so it takes that rocky motion away.” This is useful when fishing offshore or if you suffer from motion sickness. 

Last but not least, every boat needs a name. This can be simple or fun. Maybe you could ‘Seas the Day’ or ‘Sea Ya Later’. The odd ‘Usain Boat’ has also been spotted. If you spent more than you planned, maybe ‘Bankrupt Sea’? 

SAFETY 

Back to being serious, Bermuda is open water and the weather can turn quickly. Ms Down recommended that anyone new to boating here should take a local boat handling course. These are offered at the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club. 

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