The yacht Trekka sailing - originally designed by Laurent Giles for John Guzzwell, Trekka is a development of the Sopranino design. Photo credit: Nigel Calder/Maritime Museum of British Columbia

The pioneers of small-boat leisure sailing had to start from scratch when designing and building early yachts – but some of those vessels are still around to offer inspiration today.

A dog on a dinghy

Zoe Barlow and husband Martyn quit their jobs for a liveaboard adventure on their Sun Odyssey 40 with their dog, Ralph. They share their tips for sailing with a dog

The pilothouse boats: the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40DS

Yachts with a raised saloon can offer very comfortable onboard living. Duncan Kent looks at some of the best you can buy under 40ft

November 2024 cover of Practical Boat Owner magazine

The pros and cons of converting to an electric engine, Expert advice on maintaining engine belts, Second-hand spotlight on the Contessa 32, First test of the Merry Fisher 895 &…

A Frances 26 being sailed

With her long keel, appealing lines, big-boat feel and surprisingly roomy interior, the Frances 26 is a sought-after, second-hand buy, says David Harding

A man checking a water pump impeller on a boat engine

Stu Davies shows you how to check and replace an engine’s raw water pump impeller, and explains why it’s an important job

Engine maintenance is a mainstay of boat ownership but new technology has enabled the average boat owner to spend more time on sailing and less with his or her head…