Furuno vs. Garmin
Though they're similar in functionality, Furuno's NavNet, with more options and better 10-inch screen, bests the new Garmin Marine Network.
Wireless Wunderkinder
From hand-held controllers to acoustic anchor monitors, the marine wireless revolution is just getting revved up.
Handheld GPS Test
Among the eight units evaluated, the venerable Garmin GPS 76 bests the competition with its large, easy-to-read screen, intuitive software, and moderate price.
Entry-Level LCD Radars
Our field test of seven relatively inexpensive radar systems (average price around $1,500) reveals Furuno's 1712 as the top choice among monochrome displays. For color, we prefer the Simrad RA30.
Navman Tracker 5600 vs. Si-Tex ColorMax 6
The Navman 5600 screen has been improved, but the Si-Tex machine outshines it in most important areas, including sunlight viewability and price.
Networked Systems—Furuno vs. Raymarine
Two big names go head-to-head and both finish with identical ratings. Raymarine, however, squeaks past Furuno with a better warranty.
Networked SystemsFuruno vs. Raymarine
Two big names go head-to-head and both finish with identical ratings. Raymarine, however, squeaks past Furuno with a better warranty.
Battle of the Rechargeables
Our test of rechargeable AA batteries reveals that nickel- metal-hydride is the optimum technology, and Rayovac's 15-Minute Rechargeable I-C the top performer.
JRC PLOT 500F vs. Lowrance LCX-19C
We continue our look at combo units for the nav station. Here, JRC's Plot 500F gets the nod over Lowrance's LCX-19C.
Garmin 188C vs. Si-Tex Combo
In a two-on-one chartplotter/sounder shootout, a pair of Si-Tex units takes on a single Garmin combo machine.
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.