Safety & Seamanship

Comings and Goings

Weve been aware for some years that the Loran navigation system is presumably on the way out, this despite the fact that the global...

GMDSS: Mass Confusion?

Recently we received the following e-mail from reader Gerard Lacroix, asking questions about radio communications that must be on the minds of others. Your...

Handbearing Compasses: Plastimo Iris

One of the most time-consuming chores at Practical Sailor is finding, selecting and assembling the products to be tested. Even before we figure out...

Offshore Log: All Aboard!

When you own a double-ender, a midship swim ladder is the way to go. Tops-In-Quality worked with us to develop a simple, rather elegant ladder.

Offshore Log: Things That Go Bump

The crew of Calypso learns the danger of negotiating South Pacific reefs.

ChartView Edges MaxSea in Nav Software Matchup

Though MaxSea is very easy to use, and works with Macs, ChartView has more capabilities.

J World and Offshore Are The Top Guns Of Big Sailing Schools

Respondents to a PS survey were vocal in their criticism of both the Annapolis Sailing School and Womanship.

Offshore Log: In Use Report –Atkins & Hoyle Deck Hatches

After three years cruising, Calypsos cast aluminum deck hatches are holding up quite well, but theyre not perfect.

Offshore Log: When Dreams Change

Raiatea is one of those South Pacific islands where cruisers stop to rest. Some never get going again.

Offshore Log: In Use Report -Atkins & Hoyle Deck Hatches

After three years cruising, Calypsos cast aluminum deck hatches are holding up quite well, but theyre not perfect.

The Tartan 365: A Modern Cruiser with Performance Pedigree

Welcome aboard the Tartan 365, a modern performance cruiser that blends innovative design, speed, and luxurious comfort. In this video, we take a detailed...

Latest Sailboat Review

Hunter 45DS Used Boat Review

Hunter Marine unveiled its latest large cruising monohull, the Hunter 45DS, in late 2007. The boat is essentially an upgrade of the 44DS, with twin wheels, a new transom, new styling, and a roomier, reconfigured interior. Hunter has sold 152 hulls since the boats debut, making it a fairly successful endeavor. To increase the Hunter 45DSs interior volume, designer Glenn Henderson opted for relatively high freeboard and additional length. Henderson also matched a nearly elliptical rudder with a smaller keel. The 54-horsepower Yanmar auxiliary engine moved the Hunter through calm water at 8 knots at 3,000 rpm. Testers sailed the 45-footer in flat water and 13.5 knots of wind, making 5.8 knots and were able to tack through 110 degrees. The current base price of the Hunter is $268,990.