Topclimber: Going Aloft Solo

Figuring the best way to get to the masthead is one of those conundrums seldom resolved.

Offshore Log:Life with the Profurl

Our headsail reefing system, anchored by a Profurl C42 furler, has had its share of teething problems, most of which are associated with our...

Offshore Log:Life with the Profurl

Our headsail reefing system, anchored by a Profurl C42 furler, has had its share of teething problems, most of which are associated with our...

New Harken Blocks

Harken’s quest for the lightest, easiest-running yacht blocks never ends. Harken makes a huge line of blocks, from tiny “Micro Blocks” with 22 mm...

Hydraulic Backstay Adjusters: Sailtec vs. Navtec

When seven mechanical backstay adjusters were reviewed (in last falls August 15 issue), a promise was made to examine hydraulic models. As it turns...

Stowing Inner Forestays

In the October 1, 1997 issue, we published a letter from Houston Car of West Bath, Maine, in which he asked how best to...

PS Advior 05/01/98

Rerigging QuestionI enjoyed your December 1997 article on replacing wire halyards with all rope. When I considered it a few years ago, my rigger...

Mast Steps: No Perfect Design

In this report, first published in 1998, we discuss various designs of mast steps for climbing, or for assisted climbing. Here is a link...

Standing Rigging: How Tight Is Right?

Standing rigging tension is a peculiarly under-addressed subject. Easy to see how it would worry a new boat owner or someone going to sea....

Going Up the Mast Alone

A certain appeal of sailing is its seeming limitlessness. One can spend a lifetime perfecting navigation skills. Remember Marvin Creamer, who circumnavigated by the...

Fast, Beautiful, and Practical – Meet the New Beneteau First 30

The Beneteau First 30 isn’t just another 30-foot cruiser — it’s the Porsche 911 of sailboats. Heritage performance, everyday usability, and thrilling design come...

Latest Sailboat Review

Pearson 30 Used Boat Review

The Pearson 30 was designed as a family cruiser and daysailer with a good turn of speed. The boat is actively raced throughout the country, however, with some holding IOR certificates, and many more racing in PHRF, MORC, and one-design fleets.