Anti-slip decks are vital for safe sailing, with a wide range of attractive, long-lived, and sustainable coverings available. Jake Kavanagh examines some old favourites and latest innovations
gear
10 most useful sailing apps
Round the world sailor Saša Fegić shares the apps he finds the most useful on board
Smoothing the cruising – a buyers guide to ‘shock-absorbing’ boat gear and more!
The ability to soften that slamming motion of a fast boat at sea has been greatly helped with more advanced and compact designs of shock-absorbing seating, self-adjusting trim tabs and…
Tips for buying a used boat trailer
Tony Davies advises on what to look out for when buying a used boat trailer
What is inside your liferaft?
Short of time to get their liferaft professionally serviced, Andy and Julie Pag decide to carry out an inspection themselves
Buoycatcher-Max: We test the next generation boat hook
Gilbert Park tests the new Buoycatcher-Max, the next generation boat hook
How marine fabrics are changing
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
“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