Fiber Lifeline Protection Plan
Photos by Ralph Naranjo
New, single-braid, high modulus polyethylene (HMPE) lines, such as Amsteel Blue from Samson Ropes, WR2 (wire rope replacement) from New England...
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...
Visible Harm Doesnt Tell Whole Story with Amsteel
Our testing made us wonder whether we are better off with a core-and-cover lifeline with a tough cover, like New England Ropes WR2, or...
Check for Abrasion Before Switching to Fiber
To see how chafe points can develop on stanchions, we ran standard steel cable through our test stanchion holes for an hour. As expected,...
Breaking Down Performance
Photos by Ralph Naranjo
When it comes to sailboats, performance is a relative term, especially when it comes to a crews concept of how the...
A Closer Look at the Rationale Behind the Ratios
Sailboat performance varies based on the eye of the beholder. Racers want light-air alacrity and a willingness to plane while cruisers want directional stability...
Necessity Breeds Innovation
Those who use citronella or Skin So Soft for an insect repellent will not appreciate these high-octane anti-itch remedies. But it is safe to...
A Second Look at Safety Gear
We recently checked out some equipment that illustrates the challenges of designing and marketing new safety gear, one of the more tightly regulated sailing-equipment...
Operator Error Strands Vestas Wind
When it comes to speculation, it makes sense to do some research before second-guessing any maritime mishap. And with this in mind, Ive spent...
Some Charts More Clearly Indicate Accuracy
The International Hydrographic Office has a six-level rating system that indicates the accuracy of the data used to create a charted area. This zone...
A Sailboat Tour of the Exquisite Little Harbor 63 Ketch
Are you interested in a sailboat tour of an ocean crossing bluewater sailboat lush with teak and fine woodwork? Join us as we take...
Latest Sailboat Review
The PDQ 32 Cruising Cat Used Boat Review
PDQ Yachts in Whitby, Ontario, Canada, launched the Alan Slater-designed PDQ 32 catamaran in 1994 and built 53 of the boats in the following...