Living on your boat in summer — tropical or otherwise — can be hot. Really, really hot. Many boaters cope by staying in marinas and install air conditioning.

But what about those of us who prefer to anchor out? Or don't have the budget for long stays in a marina and installing air conditioning?

Improving your boat's ventilation will do a lot to cool it off. And it costs less than one month's stay in most marinas.

Carolyn Shearlock, who has spent many a summer in the Florida Keys, Bahamas and Sea of Cortez, presents five ways to make hot weather cruising in the tropics possible.

Links to products mentioned:

• Caframo Two Speed Compact 12v Fan Fan, White (Amazon; also available in black)
• West Marine Replacement Fan Blade (they don't break often, but it's good to carry a spare)
• 4-Way Breeze Bandit Wind Scoop from Cruising Solutions

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Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig