Synthetic Teak Test
Here's a look at three deck coverings that can add luster and function without too much cost. Two are PVC-based and one is cork-based.
Waterline Stain Removers
We round up seven specimens and put them through their paces on a funky waterline.
Non-Skid Compounds and Paints
We continue our experiments in finding combinations of paint and non-skid compounds that provide more traction with less abrasion, and longevity without gnarliness.
Water Repellents for Sail Fabric
303 Fabric Guard outdoes our old favorite, Scotch Gard Heavy Duty, for about the same price. ReviveX is another top performer, but costs a lot per ounce.
Portable Oil Changers
Two Jabsco changers are tops among the electric units. Tempo and West Marine manual pumps are favored.
Barnacle Removers
The acid-based products from Star brite and Marykate worked best, but are nasty to work with. Start with non-toxic Marsolve, though it's less effective.
Gelcoat Restoration: Back From the Dead
We used hull restorers from Vertglas, Poli-Glow, and New Glass-2 to revive a beaten and battered powerboat, and included Collinite’s Fiberglass Boat Wax as part of the test, too.
Bottom Paint 2004
Interlux's Micron 66 takes the laurels this year, with Pettit's Trinidad SR and two E-Paints on its heels—and for less money.
Underwater Metal Coatings: Test Results
Most of the test samples fared surprisingly well. Some were easier to prepare than others. All will benefit from an occasional sponging-off.
Topside Paint Finale
At the end of two years, after a hard life and no protection from the elements, the paints on our 'Bracelet' are given a final rating.
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.