Safety & Seamanship

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.

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.

The following report was written by RonDoescher, of Westford, MA. It started as a letter to Mailport, and turned into a very interesting...

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.

The Coast Guard requires competent noise-making. Here are the horns and whistles to do it.

SPF-30 sunscreens fare about the same on our now-striped volunteer. Consider cost per ounce.

Nick makes the case for bare-wire lifelines, double set-screws at the stanchion bases, and vigilance.

Bad news: People are still falling overboard unharnessed. Good news: Practice with good rescue techniques and gear definitely saves lives.

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.

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.