Boat Maintenance

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.

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.

The Optronics QR 2001 comes out on top, followed by models from Brinkmann and LSI. And the Garrity is bright, lightweight option.

Epifanes outperforms the glossy all-stars, while Sikkens' Cetol bests all the synthetics, oils, and stains for the top matte finish.

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...

Meguiar's and 3M performed best, but the products from West Marine, Starbrite, and Nautical Ease are half the price and almost as effective.

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.

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.

After spending a year outside in New England's rigorous weather, our test specimens revealed which waxes endure, and which don't.

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...