Practical Sailor

06/03/2026

This boat is like owning an Italian supercar: incredibly fun but with compromises. It's delicate, sophisticated, and has a smaller resale market. You need to accept it for what it is. If it's for you, go in with eyes open: buy a well-cared-for example, get a proper survey, and pay attention to structural details. A well-maintained cored hull boat offers a completely different experience than a neglected one. These are smart boats for smart owners. Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/7ocXav42BR0

06/03/2026

Moisture, salt, and oxygen deprivation are the real enemies of stainless steel aboard—here's how to keep corrosion from turning a maintenance issue into a rigging failure.

Moisture, salt, and oxygen deprivation are the real enemies of stainless steel aboard—here's how to keep corrosion at bay.

06/03/2026

By rethinking snubber length, line type, and chain connection, you can tame shock loads at anchor and keep your ground tackle working in your favor.

By rethinking snubber length, line type, and chain connection, you can tame shock loads at anchor and keep your ground tackle working.

06/01/2026

My friend offered a free boat, and we're going to see it for the first time. It's 24 feet with a diesel engine. Could it be salvageable, or is it a total wreck? Let's find out together. Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/hllX4ctgG0k

06/01/2026

One sailor's boat-specific solution to kayak boarding—built from scrap steel and foam—may inspire your own accessibility upgrade.

05/31/2026

A 2021 federal law mandating proper use of engine cut-off switches has led to a boom in wireless alternatives to the safety lanyard. Sailors beware of the caveats in man-overboard protection.

Since 1974, Practical Sailor’s independent testing has taken the guesswork out of boat and gear buying.

05/30/2026

Can you really cross oceans or even live aboard a 24-foot sailboat?

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05/29/2026

This catamaran is perfect for those seeking space, ease of use, and predictability without the half-million-dollar price tag. Ideal for coastal cruising, island hopping, and even longer voyages with proper preparation. Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/ME-3lXbvy58

05/29/2026

A friend is giving away an old sailboat for free, and now we have to answer the dangerous question every sailor secretly loves: is this a cheap sailing adventure waiting to happen, or is a “free boat” just the most expensive kind of boat?

https://buff.ly/kR2GdG7