Life Rafts
Winslow still leads, but the gap narrows. Viking's RescYou Pro earns a Best Buy.
Type IV Throwable PFDs
The Jim-Buoy life ring did well in throw and flotation tests, as did horseshoes from Jim-Buoy and Forespar. A new hybrid—the Lifeline cushion with attached throw rope—is a versatile device that could become a simple staple.
Handheld Horns & Whistles
The Coast Guard requires competent noise-making. Here are the horns and whistles to do it.
Which Sunscreen?
SPF-30 sunscreens fare about the same on our now-striped volunteer. Consider cost per ounce.
Offshore Log: Man Overboard!
Bad news: People are still falling overboard unharnessed. Good news: Practice with good rescue techniques and gear definitely saves lives.
CO Detectors
Of the two marine-rated units tested, Fireboy/Xintex gets our vote, but if you're more cautious, go with the MTI. The non-marine units are good, too, especially the Kidde Nighthawks.
First-Class Aid For First-Aid Kits
It all packs securely, refills and all, in a well-made, compartmented canvas bag that has the System O2 embroidered label and, in even larger...
Dry Boxes
Ever dig out your first-aid kit or boat's registration only to find it damaged by the wet, salty surroundings? Dry boxes can help. In our tests, Pelican edged out UWKinetics and Otter.
Off-the-Shelf Medical Kits
If you need a ready-made kit for coastal cruising, Adventure Medical has a Best Buy.
Medical Matters
As this issue goes to press in late November, Keith Kilpatrick, a crewmember aboard Amer Sports One in the Volvo Ocean Race, has just...
How To Go Cheap! The Annapolis Sailboat Show
Planning a trip to the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show? In this video, I’m sharing my best insider tips for getting the most out of...
Latest Sailboat Reviews
Brewer 12.8/44 Used Boat Review
The Brewer 12.8 and the Brewer 44 are developments of the Whitby 42, a cruising boat from the board of Ted Brewer. Brewer is one of the great modern cruising boat designers. His boats are well-mannered, attractive and practical. To improve windward performance, a high aspect ratio centerboard extends through the bottom of the 12.8's shallow keel. Since the board is not ballasted, it does not affect stability, but can be used when reaching to shift the center of lateral resistance.
