Cold Water Survival
When we read about a sailor lost overboard in a storm, we think about PFDs and personal locator beacons, and accept the sea is...
Beware of the Gasp Reflex
Should you find yourself cast in icy water, there are few things you can do that may help.
Acclimatize. As a year-round kayaker and small...
Double Check Your AIS
Nearly one year ago, the Volvo Ocean Race boat Sun Hung Kai-Scallywag was deep in the Southern Ocean bound from Auckland, New Zealand to...
Seamanship in a New Era
Good seamanship is the cornerstone of safety at sea, and its best allies are a seaworthy vessel and an able crew.
Time after time, were...
The DYI “Last Chance” Self-rescue Line
Most sailors are familiar with Thor Heyedrahl's adventures aboard his balsa raft Kon Tiki. Some may remember the self-rescue line that they dragged behind...
Solo Sailor Safety
Yes, an auto-inflate jacket will automatically turn you face up, even if unconscious. Unfortunately, if you regain consciousness, you might be drowning against the...
Safety Harness Chest Strap
When we buy rain gear, deck shoes, or binoculars, we assume they've been tested, not just in the factory and in the lab, but...
Mailport: Cold Weather Suits
Regarding your recent Inside Practical Sailor blog post Drysuits vs. Survival Suits, I raft the Colorado river in Grand Canyon where water temps are...
The Bluewater Sailors School
Many years ago, when I was shopping for a boat to sail around the world, I sought out wiser sailors for advice. A recent...
Leg Straps Put the Load on Fanny
Considering the shortcomings of existing leg loops for harnesses, we designed an add-on set of leg loops that can transform any ISO 12401 chest...
Abandon Ship! Coast Guard Rescue Beneteau 523 in the Atlantic
What would cause the captain and crew to abandon ship in the Atlantic ocean? There was no sailboat disaster here, but a coast guard...
Latest Sailboat Review
Catalina 34 Used Boat Review
American sailboat manufacturers have had their highs and lows, and many have dropped right off the map. But Catalina has been going strong for...