Offshore Log: A Close Call in the Red Sea
Calypso finds a reef off the coast of Eritrea, but boat and crew are all well. Hats off to Lofrans-Falkon and Speedtech Instruments.
Too Expensive To Bury
The test report in the March 1, 1997 issue of Practical Sailor called the KVH Datascope “the king of the hand-bearing compasses.” Although expensive,...
Boat Ladder for Inflatables
Ladders for use around and aboard the boat? For docks and rafts, hook-on-the-rail models, stern mounts, folding, extending, the new center bar sport ladders…there...
Sextants: Do We Really Have To?
Sextants may be anachronisms, but maybe we need them anyway — to save our sailing souls. Beginners should consider the Davis MK25 and the Celestaire Astra IIIB.
Offshore Log: Scoots, An Apogee 50
This customized long-distance cruiser has numerous features that would improve any boat. Plus, Log of Calypso: Asia to Arabia.
Choosing a Charter Company in the British Virgin Islands
Top-notch companies like The Moorings cost considerably more than lower-priced outfits, but as is often the case, you get what you pay for.
Offshore Log: Working For Your Fun
Before heading across the Indian Ocean and up the Red Sea into the Mediterranean, Nick and Maryann tackle a long work list. Also, When is old technology better?û
Abandon Ship Bags: Don’t Leave the Boat Without Them
At $100, West Marine’s bag is a Best Buy, but no one beats Landfall Navigation’s watertight construction.
Offshore Log: The Right Gear for the Job
Calypso has deck hardware from most major companies. Here's what's being used, and how the various pieces have held up.
Offshore Log: In Search of the Magic Finish
Most varnishes don’t last long in the tropics and, unfortunately for Nick, Calypso has a laminated captrail that requires protection.
Catalina 25 Sailboat Tour
This Catalina 25 review also explains the important differences between the swing keel, fixed fin keel and wing keel versions, along with the standard...
Latest Sailboat Reviews
Gemini 31/3000 Used Boat Review
The funny thing about the Gemini is that it's an old design. Ken Shaw drew the lines in 1969. There's nothing particularly contemporary about it. However, by painting the cabin sides black (Euro styling), adding a swept-back fiberglass "pilothouse" and gradually adding length to the full-bodied hulls, the Gemini has always looked like she belonged with her contemporaries, whether that was the 1980s or 1990s.
