White Paint Match-up
White bottom paints look good, but can they do the job?
Pettit vs. Interlux
Before we published the results of our annual bottom paint test last month, we'd set up a grudge match involving the two paints that...
Caulk and Sealant Test
How does a discerning boat owner decide what's best to use for bedding and caulking, and what products make the best sealants? Here's our start at answering that question.
Bottom Paint 2005
The top paints from previous years, like Micron 66, get split decisions this year. Interlux's Trilux II comes in as the surprise top performer—too bad it's only available in Canada. Pettit's Hydrocoat and a paint from Blue Water did well in both Florida and Connecticut waters.
Rechargeable Spotlight Test
The Optronics QR 2001 comes out on top, followed by models from Brinkmann and LSI. And the Garrity is bright, lightweight option.
Teak Treatment All-Stars Finale
Epifanes outperforms the glossy all-stars, while Sikkens' Cetol bests all the synthetics, oils, and stains for the top matte finish.
PS Advisor: 02/15/05
Waxes that Cut?In past issues, Nick Nicholson, your peripatetic Editor-at-Large, made the point that if you are long-distance sailing, it makes sense to wax...
Battle of the Nonskid Cleaners
Meguiar's and 3M performed best, but the products from West Marine, Starbrite, and Nautical Ease are half the price and almost as effective.
Salt Fighters
To go that extra step in protecting your boat and engine from salt, consider these products. We tested five, and Salt-Away is our top pick.
The Tale of the Tape
Recent problems with 3M's blue tape remain a mystery, but there are some good alternatives available at reasonable prices. Intertape's ProMask Blue is a top option, and the real bargain is electrical tape.
Lithium Batteries on Sailboats: The 3 Mistakes Everyone Makes
Lithium batteries are one of the most popular sailboat upgrades today—but they’re also one of the most misunderstood. In this Practical Sailor Saturday episode,...
Latest Sailboat Review
Island Packet Estero Used Boat Review
Florida-based Island Packet targets a relatively narrow niche, so the toughest competitors to its new boats are often older Island Packets. Introduced in 2010, the 36-foot, shoal-draft Estero is the company’s latest attempt to introduce a distinctive model that doesn’t stray too far from the company’s proven formula for success: moderate displacement, full-keel cruisers designed to be lived on, sailed far and in comfort, and endure the bumps, scrapes, and storms that cruising boats inevitably encounter. After sailing the Estero on Florida’s Sarasota Bay and inspecting its interior, construction, and systems, Practical Sailor testers noted that the shoal-water cruiser will appeal strongest to Island Packet fans who’ve been waiting for a shoal-draft, easy-to-sail boat that compares to the IP37 in terms of interior space. These strengths will be most apparent on intracoastal or riverine adventures like the Great Loop.