DIY Electrical Panel Replacement
When repowering our 1978 Islander Bahama 30, I was well aware that part of the engine replacement would have to include a serious look...
Testing CIGS Solar Panels: Are Most of Us Holding onto an Inferior Technology?
We've been running solar on our boat for a decade, and after dealing with the rapid degradation of our latest SunPower flexible panels, we...
Sailboat Tech: What’s Worth it and What’s Not
While you may feel the pressure to constantly update your boat tech, its important to understand which features are worth opening your wallet for....
9-in. Chartplotter Guide
With many options on the market in the 9-in. multi-function device (MFD) category, which chartplotter works best for the needs of cruising sailors, racers...
Marine Wiring: Are the Pricey Options Worth the Cost?
This article launches Practical Sailors long-term test of electrical wires, electrical connections, and corrosion inhibitors for electrical applications onboard sailboats. Ultimately, the goal of this ongoing project is to examine corrosion in wires and connectors in a marine environment. More concisely, it could be presented as a closer look at three common elements in marine wiring to answer some basic questions: What is the best wire to use on a sailboat? Is it tinned wire, automotive wire, or stranded machine tool wire? What are the best corrosion preventatives? Do you apply the anti-corrosion treatment to every connection and every crimp, or just certain types of connections? What are the longest-lasting connections? Which were most prone to electrolysis? We made observations during the six-month test period without disturbing the samples. At the end of the full one-year test period, we will unbolt all of the fittings from the terminal strips and look for corrosion under the fittings.
Navigation App Review: Savvy Navvy
When Savvy Navvy navigation app asked me to review the app and share my impressions, I was curious enough to do a little background...
Lithium Batteries for Small Boats: Troubleshooting
In “Lithium Batteries for Small Boats” we looked at some of the less frequently discussed differences between lead acid and LiFePO4 batteries. In “Lithium...
Lithium Batteries for Small Boats: Install Guide
This article focuses on sailboat LiFePO4 battery installations and the equipment and wiring changes we need to make to the electrical system in order...
DIY Electrical System Survey and Inspection
So, you’ve finally purchased that new (or new-to-you) boat of your dreams. Now is a great time to familiarize yourself with its systems—a good...
Lithium Batteries for Small Boats
We are now all familiar with the primary advantages (life expectancy, weight, usable capacity etc.) of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePo4) batteries. What is absent,...
Small Boat, Big Keel Why This 27 Footer Works
What makes a small sailboat truly seaworthy? In this video, we take a deep dive into the Pacific Seacraft Orion 27, a rugged, long-keel...
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.