Systems & Propulsion

PS Finds Out Whos Keeping It Cool

Zero Degrees is a bargain at $20; CIs Music Cooler delivers tunes to boot.

Xantrex’s New XC Line are Multiplex Masters

To put it mildly, the battery test on the previous pages presented a recharging nightmare. Ideally, what we needed was an intelligent multi-bank battery...
best deep cycle marine battery

Deep Cycle Marine Battery Test

Trojan, Mastervolt AGMs keeps the lights burning.

Xantrex’s New XC Line are Multiplex Masters

To put it mildly, the battery test on the previous pages presented a recharging nightmare. Ideally, what we needed was an intelligent multi-bank battery...

PS Advisor: 01/06

Saildrive CorrosionI purchased a 1983 Sweden 41 in September, 1999. Since that time I have had to purchase three saildrives because of corrosion. I...

Bilge Binge

Water Witch keeps our bilge drier, the Sure Bail scores with rugged simplicity

Coleman Wins Cooler Cool-Off

The Ultimate Extreme Marine from Coleman and the expensive Frigid Rigid hold ice longer than comparably sized portable coolers from Igloo, Rubbermaid and Icey-Tek.

PS Advisor: 11/15/05

Holding TanksI'm planning to install a holding tank in my Pearson Vanguard. I've spent a little time researching the options, but I'm having trouble...

DC Watermakers: Expensive but Useful for the Cruising Sailor

Reverse-osmosis watermakers run from $3,000 to over $8,000, and though many are similar, close examination is required for the buyer who wants the right one for his or her onboard needs.

Battery Chargers: Newmar Earns Best Buy Status

Mastervolt's 12/25-3 has it all, but Newmar's PT-25 is the best value. Charles Industries' 2000SP is well-suited for lead-acid batteries, while models from Guest and Promariner have shortcomings.

Lithium Batteries on Sailboats: The 3 Mistakes Everyone Makes

Lithium batteries are one of the most popular sailboat upgrades today—but they’re also one of the most misunderstood. In this Practical Sailor Saturday episode,...

Latest Sailboat Review

Island Packet Estero Used Boat Review

Florida-based Island Packet targets a relatively narrow niche, so the toughest competitors to its new boats are often older Island Packets. Introduced in 2010, the 36-foot, shoal-draft Estero is the company’s latest attempt to introduce a distinctive model that doesn’t stray too far from the company’s proven formula for success: moderate displacement, full-keel cruisers designed to be lived on, sailed far and in comfort, and endure the bumps, scrapes, and storms that cruising boats inevitably encounter. After sailing the Estero on Florida’s Sarasota Bay and inspecting its interior, construction, and systems, Practical Sailor testers noted that the shoal-water cruiser will appeal strongest to Island Packet fans who’ve been waiting for a shoal-draft, easy-to-sail boat that compares to the IP37 in terms of interior space. These strengths will be most apparent on intracoastal or riverine adventures like the Great Loop.