Offshore Log: America’s Cup Technology
From the cutting edge to the mainstream-at the apex of the racing scene, sailors break things until they get them right. Eventually, the refined parts trickle down to the rest of us.
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.
Electronic Charting Evolution
The following report was written by RonDoescher, of Westford, MA. It started as a letter to Mailport, and turned into a very interesting...
Offshore Log: The Real Cost of Cruising
There are extremes, but most people can probably cruise for what it costs to live ashore. Here's a list of expense categories to consider.
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: Check Your Lifelines, Save Your Life
Nick makes the case for bare-wire lifelines, double set-screws at the stanchion bases, and vigilance.
Offshore Log: Man Overboard!
Bad news: People are still falling overboard unharnessed. Good news: Practice with good rescue techniques and gear definitely saves lives.
Navigation Software Update
Fugawi does the job at an attractive price. RayTech Navigator 4 shines as a real-time navigating tool. Maptech's Offshore Navigator delivers a complete planning/navigation package.
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.
You Can’t Insure Old Sailboats… Right?
Are older sailboats really uninsurable? If you’ve been shopping for a 20, 30, or even 40-year-old sailboat, you’ve probably seen the warnings online: “Insurance...
Latest Sailboat Review
Irwin Citation 38 Used Boat Review
As the largest of the Citations, the Irwin Citation 38 is probably the best looking, handling the high-sidedness better than her smaller sisters. The boat has three windows set in the sheer stripe on each side, so they are not very noticeable. Like the other Citations it is distinctly modern-looking not pretty, but not ugly either.