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...
Controlling Jibes and Case Studies
We are vehemently against using a boom brake to prevent a jibe. Even using them to control a jibe introduces problems, requiring that we...
Anchorage Tactics for Sudden Storms
On August 18, a sudden, violent storm ripped through the island of Corsica, packing winds up to 140 mph and tossing once safely moored...
PS Advisor: Rope Coatings to Prolong Cordage Life
New lines run fast. They fly through tackles and tangles fall right out. But they are also hard to hold in our hands, on...
Setting Up Your Own ‘Floating’ Genoa Lead
When setting up a floating lead system, you need to establish the maximum range of positions you may need. With a track system, the...
Solid Rings in Running Rigging
Ball bearing blocks are the low-friction answer for most tackle on board. However, racers and even cruisers, are increasingly making the switch to low...
Do Cruisers Need Jib Leech Telltales?
Telltales on the body of the jib and leech of the main are commonplace, and most of us learned to sail using them. They...
PS Advisor: North-up Versus Heading-up Navigation
When a vigorous debate broke out recently at a local boat show over the ideal orientation of a chartplotter (north up vs. heading up),...
Small Boat, Big Keel Why This 27 Footer Works
What makes a small sailboat truly seaworthy? In this video, we take a deep dive into the Pacific Seacraft Orion 27, a rugged, long-keel...
Latest Sailboat Review
Tortue 147 Boat Review
What if I told you that the most radical sailboat you’ve never heard of looks like a turtle, weighs in at 17 tons (17,200...