Whistles: Fox Is Best
When it comes to survival at sea, the more tools you have at your disposal, the better. And that includes, in addition to high-tech...
Bolder and Statpower Battery Packs
In the October 15, 1999 issue we reported on battery packs. The newest version of sealed technology releases its charge rapidly, without wasting energy as internal heat.
Offshore Log: Keeping Crud Out Of Your Fuel
Whether you’re cruising along the coast of the US or the islands of the Pacific, a load of contaminated diesel fuel can ruin your...
Offshore Log: Keeping Crud Out Of Your Fuel
Whether you’re cruising along the coast of the US or the islands of the Pacific, a load of contaminated diesel fuel can ruin your...
Cabin Fan Destruction Test
In the double issue of September, 1999, was a report—part of a special section on ventilation—on cabin fans.A dozen fans were tested for noise,...
Transom Brackets For Small Outboards: Fulton Rates Best
In our test of eight transom-mounted brackets, the Fulton was the easiest to operate. Garelick earns runner-up honors.
AGM Batteries: Optima Our Choice
If weight is not a consideration we also recommend the 81-pound GNB Stowaway multi-purpose sealed AGM battery.
Offshore Log:More (Shore) Power To The People
Now in Australia, Calypso gets a stepdown transformer for 240-volt shorepower.
Offshore Log:More (Shore) Power To The People
Now in Australia, Calypso gets a stepdown transformer for 240-volt shorepower.
PS Advisor 10/01/00
Rudder LeaksI read your rudder-rebuild article (February 1, 2000) with interest since I own a 1972 Ranger 33 with an original rudder. I have...
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
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.