Systems & Propulsion

Rhumb Lines: Yes, We Are the Lucky Ones

Slow down. Stretch. Breathe. Before we let the coming summer carry us away, dreamy, windswept, mouth wide open, ready to inhale each sultry moment and...

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...

PS Advisor: Tacking and Jibing with a Tiller Pilot

In very light winds the tiller pilot will make corrections that are too small and the boat will not turn quickly enough to complete...

Diesel Repower From Scratch Pt. 1

This is a multi-part article detailing the installation of an inboard diesel engine into my modified Cape Dory 36 Far Reach. I rebuilt the Far Reach from...

The $15 Do-it-Yourself Tiller Lock

An electronic tiller pilot is a marvel for single handed sailors. It is a second crew member that never tires, holding a steady course...

Rhumb Lines: Tiller Versus Wheel, Again

Two articles this month focus on the simplest, most reliable form of steering, one that has persisted through the ages with little modification—the tiller....

Mailport: Carl Alberg, Tinned Wire, Fiberglass Durability

HIGH PRAISE FOR CARL ALBERG Regarding your report “Small-boat Dreams and Carl Alberg’s Classic Daysailers,” my first sailboat, 25 years ago, was a Pearson Electra....

Composting Head Disposal Options

We wouldn’t describe ourselves as huge fans of composting/desiccation heads (see “Dissecting the Desiccating Head,” PS July 2021). We’re not encouraging people to rip out what...

Gas Engine Owners Beware of E15 Blends

Global fuel supplies have been stretched as a result of the war between Russia and Ukraine, and to help alleviate this, the EPA issued...

Reliable Three-way Wire Connections

Connecting two wires is simple; a crimp butt connector using a ratchet crimper, and adhesive lined heat shrink in damp locations, where there is...

Discover the Cool New Tortue 147 Aluminum Catamaran | Ultimate Shallow-Water...

In this video, we take a deep dive into the Tortue 147, a brand-new aluminum catamaran designed for adventure, freedom, and exploration. Built tough...

Latest Sailboat Review

Beneteau First 345 Used Boat Review

The Beneteau First 345 was designed as a moderate displacement racer/cruiser, and much of its popularity has been because of its success in blending the two functions. In fact, it could be said that the First is a racing boat that contains a cruising interior. The architect is Jean Berret, a Frenchman noted for his cruising and racing designs (he designed the 1985 Admiral's Cup winner, Phoenix, a Beneteau one-tonner).