August 1, 2004

PS Advisor: 08/01/04

From the Pros—DIY Blister Fix

Subscribers Only A former boatyard professional tackles his boat's blisters with a deliberate, step-by-step repair.

Networked Systems—Furuno vs. Raymarine

Subscribers Only Two big names go head-to-head and both finish with identical ratings. Raymarine, however, squeaks past Furuno with a better warranty.

Life on the Edge—State of the Art Boatbuilding

Subscribers Only Most of us have boats built of fiberglass and have only a vague idea that the hard outer surface is made of gelcoat. Beyond that, our knowledge of the boatbuilding process approaches zero.

Multitools Revisited

Subscribers Only Several new offerings prompted this renewed look. For versatility and quality we like four particular models, and among those, the Leatherman Wave is our best buy.

Outboard Engine Locks

Subscribers Only Among the bar-type locks, we like the Islander Outboard Motor Lock. For really robust security, go with the Stazo SmartLock.

Mailport: 08/01/04

Safe and Sound

Inside Practical Sailor Blog

San Fran 'Stand-down' = Government Meddling?

by Darrell Nicholson on May 15, 2012

The Coast Guard’s request late last month that sailors “stand-down” and suspend any offshore racing outside San Francisco Bay in the wake of last month’s tragedy in the San Francisco Yacht Club’s Farallones Race rankled more than a few Bay area sailors. The response was not surprising. Critics decried the move as draconian, driven by overzealous safety mavens, an example virulent government intrusion, trampling of personal freedoms, etc. etc. etc. It is a…

Read More

Reader Questionnaire

Practical Sailor is gauging interest in a consumer-advice report on sailboat chartering. Please let us know how you feel about bareboat sailing charter opportunities.