Marine fabrics are increasingly being made using natural fibres, less harmful chemicals and longer-lasting colours. Jake Kavanagh looks at the cut of the cloth
gear
“Why changing to an electric motor was a disaster”
Felix Marks attempts to embrace a green future for his Tofinou 7, but his experiment with an electric motor proves costly when damp conditions prevail
Evolution of the electric winch handle
Electric winch handles can help crew perform any task on board a yacht, regardless of their strength, size or physical abilities. Roger Hughes looks at how they developed
Zhik CST500 Coastal Sailing Smock: tested offshore
Katy Stickland tests the Zhik CST500™ Coastal Sailing Smock during offshore voyages and on day sails
How to service your two-speed winch: step-by-step
With spare parts hard to find, Vyv Cox keeps his 15-year-old Gibb winches in fine fettle with a regime of regular maintenance. Here he shows how it’s done
The best boat anchor types for different types of cruising & their pros and cons
Rupert Holmes looks at the different anchor designs and how to choose the right one for your type of cruising
Arthur Beale jumpers tested: the Guernsey
The traditional Guernsey is the latest in the range of Arthur Beale jumpers. Katy Stickland tests it over the winter and spring
My verdict after testing Red’s new 30L waterproof backpack over four months
The new 30-litre Red Adventure Waterproof Backpack is designed to be comfortable to wear, and versatile for use on land and on the water. Katy Stickland puts it to the…
Lithium iron phosphate batteries: myths BUSTED!
Duncan Kent looks into the latest developments, regulations and myths that have arisen since lithium-ion batteries were introduced
Rheos sunglasses: we test the new Cora floating polarised eyewear
James Wood tests a pair of the Cora Rheos sunglasses to see how comfortable they are to wear and if they float
Mediterranean sailing: the essential kit you need
Rupert Holmes explains the most useful equipment he carries on board for low-hassle, reliable and self-sufficient Mediterranean cruising on a budget
Two years of owning my electric outboard: long term test of the Torqeedo 603
Hamish Southby-Tailyour explains the modifications he’s made to make his Torqeedo 603 electric outboard work better for him
Buying a new or used outboard motor? Professionals share their tips to make sure you avoid the pitfalls
From horsepower to shaft length and tilt-angle to 2- or 4-stroke, Ali Wood highlights the different features you should consider when buying a new or used outboard motor
ePropulsion X Series electric outboards: first look
Jake Kavanagh reports on easy DIY ‘plug and play’ electric motors
My verdict on the Rooster Aquafleece Robe after testing it over the winter
The Rooster Aquafleece Robe is the first watersports robe with a removable lining. Katy Stickland tests it over the winter while swimming and walking in all weathers
What sailing boat kit do you need for an Atlantic crossing? Cruisers share the gear that really worked for them
From Starlink to tradewind sails, first aid and cooking, Ali Wood reports on new and traditional gear for transatlantic sailors
How to find the best boat insurance
Boat insurance costs are rising but you can still get the right cover for your kind of cruising if you do some homework, says Jake Kavanagh
Sea to Summit Hydraulic Pro Dry Pack: long term test
Katy Stickland tests the submersible rucksack-style Sea to Summit Hydraulic Pro Dry Pack, subjecting it to journeys by sea, air and rail over a seven month period
How to make a low friction ring with soft shackle
Remy Laine shows how he made a low friction ring with integrated soft shackle
Managing E5 and E10 petrol problems
E5 and especially E10 petrol requires much more ‘fuel husbandry’ than older, ethanol-free petrol blends, as Jake Frith has discovered