Boat Maintenance

Bottom Paint Makeover

Raising WaterlineAnderson studied First Lights bottom carefully and pronounced the paint removal job a success, leaving a light patina to be sanded and smoothed...

Antifouling Paints Abroad

Practical Sailor has been conducting antifouling paint trials for years, but our focus almost exclusively has been on those paints that can be bought...

Mailport: October 2015

I often sail singlehanded or with inexperienced crew. For years, I have used a fannypack-style PFD (see PS Jan. 15, 2005) made by Sospenders...

Product Update

Bebi ShutteredWeve tested Bebi Electronics lights in the past (PS May 2010) and recently mentioned the companys photo-sensitive Beka anchor light in our report...

Tea for the Tillerman

The tiller on Tosca was a rough-hewn piece of sawn ash-tough and springy. Where it fit in your hand, it was about as big...

Editors Tap Top Sailing Gear of the Year

ApparelGill OS2 fouliesIn early 2015, Practical Sailor tested mid-range, mens and womens foul-weather gear from Gill, Grundens, Helly Hansen, Henri Lloyd, and West Marine....

The Best of Bottom Paints

Spray-on WaxesThe December 2014 issue reported on our search for affordable spray waxes-liquid waxes that offer a glossy finish and some surface protection and...

VHFs, SSBs, and Reading the Weather

In the April 2015 issue, Practical Sailor evaluated four handheld VHF radios loaded with all the bells and whistles, including longer battery life, positive...

Fighting Mildew, Mold, and Lichen

Most boat owners regard their boat as a living, breathing thing, but when real living things-especially the microscopic variety-move aboard and start occupying large...

Slicing, Dicing Abrasion Data

For testing, we used the same abrasion rig we used to test sewn eyes and rope (see PS March 2015). A modified wood lathe...

The ALL NEW Catalina 426 Full Tour

The Catalina 426 is the latest addition to Catalina’s renowned fleet, designed for sailors seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. This 42-foot...

Latest Sailboat Review

Martin 16 Used Boat Review

The Martin 16 is designed for adaptive sailing so people with disabilities can easily control sails and steering. It is an excellent choice for...