Combatting Onboard Toilet Odors
After my experience last weekend while hunting down odors on our project boat, the 1971 S&S-designed Yankee 30 Opal, I thought I’d revisit some...
Marine Diesel Repower Part 3: Sea Trial
This is the last of a three-part series describing the planning and installation of an inboard diesel engine in my previously engine-free Cape Dory...
Diesel Repower From Scratch Part II
This is Part II of a three-part series detailing the installation of a complete inboard engine system into our highly modified Cape Dory 36...
Diesel Repower From Scratch: Part 1
This is a three-part series detailing the installation of an inboard diesel engine into my modified Cape Dory 36 Far Reach. I rebuilt Far...
Do Hybrid Propulsion Systems Make Sense on Small Boats?
In the article “Is All-Electric Propulsion Practical on Small Sailboats?” we explored the current state of technology for all-electric marine propulsion. We concluded that...
Is All-Electric Propulsion Practical on Small Sailboats?
The 18th century was the age of sail. The 19th century saw the introduction of steam propulsion and the 20th century witnessed the introduction...
DC Watermakers: Head-to-Head Test
Reverse-osmosis, DC-powered watermakers have been available for use aboard mid-sized cruising sailboats for years, but thanks to new technology, they just keep getting better. Todays units are more efficient, reasonably compact, and in many cases, modular in design. Practical Sailor recently tested two popular models-new Ventura 200T from Spectra Watermakers Inc. and Racor Village Marines Little Wonder (LWM-145)-and rated them for water and construction quality, noise, power consumption, and ease of installation and maintenance. The review also discusses the pros/cons of installing a watermaker on a sailboat, installation and maintenance tips, and whether a watermaker is right for you.
Reliable Three-way Wire Connections
Connecting two wires is simple; use a properly sized crimp butt connector with a ratchet crimper, and finish with adhesive-lined heat shrink in damp,...
Lithium Batteries for Small Boats: A LiFePO4 Buyer’s Guide
In the series of articles "Lithium Batteries for Small Boats," "Lithium Batteries for Small Boats: Install Guide" and "Lithium Batteries for Small Boats: Troubleshooting"...
Steady at the Helm
A sailboat’s steering system also plays a vital role in safety at sea. The failure of any key component can jeopardize boat handling and...
Hanse 360 Boat Tour: The 36 Footer That Feels Like a...
he Hanse 360 is one of the most talked-about new cruising sailboats in the 36-foot range, and in this Practical Sailor boat tour we...
Latest Sailboat Reviews
Endeavour 37 Used Boat Review
Rob Valdez and John Brooks founded Endeavour in 1974 using the molds from Ted Irwin's 32-footer to launch the business. The company built about 600 32s in all. Spurred by this success, Valdez and Brooks began looking around for a larger sistership to expand the line. Just how they "developed" the 37 is a tale best left untold until the principals pass away or become too senile to read the yachting periodicals. Brooks calls the 37 a "house design," and that is generous. The total number of Endeavour 37s built is 476 a lot for a boat that size.
