Safety & Seamanship

With this column we begin a long-term exploration of modern boat designs and systems, intended to keep us up-to-date on which advancements are within reach—and worth reaching.

There can be no overstating the importance of a good knife to a sailor. It does everything from routine maintenance to saving life and property. Not only should every sailor carry a knife on his belt or in his pocket, but sharp knives should be strategically located around the boat to grab in emergencies. Whether you prefer the speed of a sheath knife, the convenience of a folding pocket knife, or the versatility of a multi-tool, don't leave the dock without your own blade.

In our review of knives this month, we didn't have space to talk much about how important they are aboard a boat. They're vastly...

A worthy addition to pyrotechnic kits and personal survival gear, this simple but ingenius tool is moving toward a place at center stage in the search-and-rescue world.

A continuation of last month's new-product focus.

A continuation of last month's new-product focus.

The early Florida shows—IBEX and Fort Lauderdale—are good places to see the latest efforts of the marine trades. Nick Nicholson went to see what was cresting over the horizon.

The early Florida shows—IBEX and Fort Lauderdale—are good places to see the latest efforts of the marine trades. Nick Nicholson went to see what was cresting over the horizon.

Personal locator beacons, or PLBs, provide the benefits of 406 MHz distress signaling, but at a more affordable price. And unlike an EPIRB, they’re small enough to attach to a life jacket.

Feedback on our October 1 column gives us a chance to stay in school and dig deeper into the same topic.