The Cruising Sailor’s Argument for High-tech Fibers
We’re not racers. A few ounces doesn’t matter to us, so why should we be interested in Dyneema, or any of the other popular...
Mailport: Boat heaters, digital charts, photophobia, downsizing
HEATING EFFICIENCY
I just saw, with interest, your article about onboard fireplace safety, with the emphasis on safety (see “LPG Fireplace Safety Guidelines,” Inside Practical Sailor)....
Hatching a Hatch Plan
Alazarette that closes at the wrong moment can cost you a broken finger—or worse. I should know. A failed latch on an oil field...
Rugged Winch Handle Holders
In 40 years of sailing I’ve lost only two winch handles. I was reefing the main when I lost the first. I reached up...
Liquid Chafe Protection
We recently learned that Spinlock RP25, one of our favorite cordage treatment used to prevent chafe and to improve grip in jammers has been...
Mailport: Winch Maintenance, Painting Jib, DIY Mainsail Cover
BLANKET WINCH SERVICE
Regarding your blog post “Simple Tips on Servicing Your Sailboat Winches,” I do my winches every two years when the boat is...
The Science of Stern Anchoring
Sailboats yaw at anchor. In prior reports we discussed seriously yawing can compromise anchor security, and we talked about how a riding sail can...
Unwrapping the Revealing Capstan Equation
High-strength, high-tech fibers have transformed so many aspects of sailing—sometimes in ways we might not even recognize. Consider the way these new fibers behave...
Better Winch Grip
Winches are the power behind the sails. A dinghy can use a 2:1 tackle to sheet in the jib, but greater purchase than that...
Be Careful with Boom Brakes
I love the idea of a preventer that can be engaged by pulling on just one line and that can be eased just as...
Performance Sailing – Beneteau First 44 Review
The Beneteau First 44 Performance is not just another modern cruiser. In this Practical Sailor boat tour, we take a close look at the...
Latest Sailboat Reviews
Catalina 470 Used Boat Review
Although it conforms to CE ratings for ocean sailing, this boat is better suited for coastal cruising in comfort and short offshore passages. It's got a great set of layout options for living aboard.
