Marine Electronics

406 MHz EPIRBs

The ACR Global Fix 406 with internal GPS is the top pick, followed by the Pains Wessex SOS Precision. The NAT Satfind lacks an integral GPS, but has a user-changeable battery.

PS Advisor: 07/01/03

Data, Displays, and the NMEAI currently own navigation equipment from three different companies, primarily because I felt they were the best value or provided...

Integrated Instrument Systems

Here's a quick review of integrated instrument functions, a scan of what's on the market, and viewpoints from some installation pros.

Watching the Flashers

We don't have cable or satellite TV at home. We have an antenna-an amplified antenna, mind you-and we can pick up, in...

Static-Free Satellite Radio: XM and Sirius

Digital Satellite Audio Radio promises near-CD quality digital sound, but it hasn't taken off as expected. Is there good reason to subscribe to any of the companies?

Sailing Simulator Software

Stentec is complicated to learn, but still tops for realism and value. Posey has kept developing, and now has a whole suite of programs for different sailing disciplines.

Color GPS Chartplotters

The Standard Horizon CP150C is a Best Buy. The small Si-Tex and Garmin units are also strong. At the higher end we like the Simrad machine, but wish it could run Garmin's BlueChart.

Handheld Holders

Ram Mounting Systems will put a firm grip on your GPS, VHF radio, or any other handheld. Less expensive products from Arkon and Davis work, too, but need some tweaking before you can feel confident about your gear slamming in a seaway.

Chandlery: 02/15/03

PDA/GPS/Charting Package, ACR ThermaBlanket, Tool Leash

As the World Turns

We received a couple of letters this month from people who had trouble setting the tide functions on their Casio SPF-40 watches. One...

Why This $1M+ Sailboat Might Be The Best Bluewater Cruiser in...

The Bluewater 56 is one of the most misunderstood offshore cruisers in the sailing world — and today we’re diving deep into what makes...

Latest Sailboat Review

The $100K Cruiser Showdown: How the Catalina 380 Stacks Up

Are you in the market for a 35 to 40 foot sailboat under $100,000? Are you considering a Catalina 380? Have you seen a...