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.
Wax Test Results
After spending a year outside in New England's rigorous weather, our test specimens revealed which waxes endure, and which don't.
Bottom Paint Grudge Match
At Practical Sailor, we sift and filter through marine products to evaluate them so that you don't have to. Our annual bottom paint test...
PS Advisor: 10/15/04
Dealing with Road GrimeRecently, my father and I hired a transport company to move three boats to various locations in the country. Each time...
Infrared Thermometers
DIY maintenance types will appreciate that these gadgets let you safely monitor engines, electrical components, and anything with varying temperatures.
Flashlight Death-Match
For good old fashioned reliability and brightness, we like Rayovac's Roughneck. Pelican's Super Sabrelite is a good choice for portability, and either of two LED models would make sense for your ditch bag.
Reintroducing Mr. Funnel
Clean diesel fuel is the first step toward proper engine maintenance. Thanks to an Alaska-based inventor, attaining perfection in that department has become easier and less expensive.
From the Pros—DIY Blister Fix
A former boatyard professional tackles his boat's blisters with a deliberate, step-by-step repair.
Multitools Revisited
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.
From the ProsDIY Blister Fix
A former boatyard professional tackles his boat's blisters with a deliberate, step-by-step repair.
O’Day 40 – A Budget Cruiser for the Bahamas
The O’Day 40 (1986) is one of those cruising sailboats that somehow slipped through the cracks of sailing history. Built during the final years...
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.