Offshore Log: Thoughts on Engine Spares For Cruising
Emptying out the spares inventory for Calypso's Perkins diesel was an eye-opener—there were plenty of parts back-ups, and, in Nick's view, all for the best of reasons.
Safe Options for Stowing LPG on Deck
Disposable propane cylinders are darn handy, powering stern-rail grills, propane torches and catalytic cabin heaters. I’ve also had the valves fail twice, the result...
Insurance For Older Sailboats
In our modern, risk-adverse world there is seldom the opportunity to stand alone, to be self-insured as it were. Gone are the days that...
Navigating the Learning Curve: Insights from a Sailing Instructor
I think of sailing as a lifelong pursuit. Mastery of sailing is elusive, there is always more to learn, from leading a new position...
What Kind of Insurance Do I Need for My Cruising Sailboat?
There are plenty of exciting things to buy in the world of sailing. Nabbing all the gear, gadgets, upgrades and essential marine accoutrement is...
Refurbishing the Inflatable Dinghy
Inflatable tenders have become the family car for many cruisers. They haul groceries, take us to snorkeling spots, shuttle guests, haul out second anchors,...
Compact Scuba Kits for Sailors
In general, many cruisers prefer the freedom of snorkeling to scuba diving, yet there are situations when extending the time you can spend underwater becomes a safety issue.
Safety: Lights and Shapes that Signal Status and Intentions
We have the minimum required lights, including running lights for sailing and motoring, and an anchor light. We might even have an electronic distress...
A Radio Lifeline for Cruisers
Speaking with Patricia Dallas and David Sapiane of Gulf Harbour Radio is a little like speaking to a great-aunt and uncle. Like someone who’s...
An Argument for Plain Nautical Language
I never like writing filled with subtle allegory, puzzles, and hidden meaning. But in the hands of a master, creative use of language is...
This 1997 Sailboat Costs $350,000… Here’s Why – Hampton 43
Can a 1997 sailboat really be worth $350,000? In this video, we take a deep dive into the Hampton 43 pilothouse cutter, a heavy-displacement...
Latest Sailboat Review
Rhodes 22 Used Boat Review
Designed by Phillip Rhodes back in 1960, the Rhodes 22 is a trailerable cruiser for a couple that wants the amenities of a larger boat without putting up with the hassles and expenses of a larger boat. It's clearly not a racing boat. It's also not a "shoehorn special," whose claim to fame is how many persons it can sleep. And it's not an inexpensive boat for its size. The Rhodes 22, from its inception, has been a purpose-built boat. And, with a history of detail improvements and some innovative thinking, it meets that purpose quite well.