Pride of ownership is a tricky quality to quantify. To many yacht owners looks will play second fiddle to pragmatics – practicality, space and affordability all rank higher (hence the…
Toby Hodges
First look: Balance 442 – lightweight, fast catamaran
Although relatively heavy designs that maximise space and comfort still dominate the market, demand for lightweight and fast cruising catamarans appears to be increasing dramatically, with this South African yard…
Ovni 370 review – go-anywhere shoal draught cruising
With its distinctive range of bare aluminium lift-keel cruisers, Alubat’s Ovni brand has been synonymous with bluewater cruising since the 1970s. After a barren period it came out with a…
First look Dehler 46SQ
Following the successful update that transformed the Dehler 38 into the 38SQ, the German yard has given similar treatment to its flagship model, a Judel/Vrolijk design dating from 2015, now…
Best sailing tender: get a buzz from your boat or boot
While we all crave as much helming pleasure as possible from our cruising yachts, the reality is that after making realistic space, volume and budget compromises, they may not always…
Stubble & Co Adventure Bag review
Short-haul travel and quick sailing trips are back on. Plus, it’s summer time, which means packing light. What do you use for that weekend away or two-day work trip? If…
First look: LM46 comfortable modern, wood yacht
This gorgeous performance cruiser is built of cold moulded timber with strategic carbon stiffening, by Lyman-Morse in Camden, Maine. Kiwi designer Kevin Dibley has drawn a boat that will offer…
Red Original EVO Pro Change Robe and stash bag review
If you are considering a changing robe or dry robe, there’s a burgeoning range to choose from now. These waterproof garments are designed to keep you warm when getting in…
Hallberg-Rassy 69: Swedish yard announces its largest model ever
Magnus Rassy has announced that his Swedish yard is to build ‘the greatest Hallberg Rassy ever’ in its largest flagship to date, the Hallberg-Rassy 69. The Frers design is very…
First look: Fountaine-Pajot Aura 51
This French yard’s latest model, the Fountaine-Pajot Aura 51, hit the water a couple of months ago. She packs in a huge amount of accommodation, both on deck and below…
North Sails Performance Trimmers fast dry shorts review
North Sails Performance is a new venture into high end wet weather sailing gear by the world’s largest sailmaker and if these Trimmer Fast Dry Shorts are anything to go by,…
Musto LPX Primaloft Stretch Midlayer Jacket review
The Musto LPX Primaloft Stretch Midlayer Jacket has been my go-to jacket for the autumn and spring seasons both ashore and afloat and remains in excellent condition. The purpose of…
Satellite communication: how to stay connected at sea
Our desire for almost constant communication and messaging, even when onboard, and our reliance on the internet continues to soar. Technology and the ability to stay in touch has allowed…
Theragun Pro review – is a massage gun useful for sailors?
It’s an age thing. You reach a certain stage in your life and things gradually stop working, hurt, or both. I am in my mid forties and have (vocally) put…
Motorloc Atlantic outboard Slot Loc review
It’s an unfortunate truth that we’ve all either had an outboard stolen or at least know of someone who has. An outboard lock is at the very least a worthwhile…
Railblaza C-Tug Dinghy Wheels review
A good, durable set of transom dinghy wheels can be transformational for anyone who regularly needs to beach their dinghy. It can make the difference between being able to beach…
Tested: 4 of the best inflatable tenders
Tenders are so much more than taxis. They can add freedom, sport and exploration to any stopover or anchorage, particularly if your yacht is large enough to carry a rigid…
Tested: OCA Outboard cover
For those who keep their outboards outside, whether on the tender or pushpit, a good outboard cover is highly recommended. I keep my dinghy tied to a quay for the…
Outside in: 3 Stunning superyacht designs
A priority with any new superyacht design should be of providing the owners with the ability to enjoy their surroundings to the absolute fullest while giving them the means and…
Sail greener: options for more eco-friendly sails
Sails are predominantly made from new plastics, chemicals and virgin fibres, but some latest developments may help address that and make eco-friendly sails a real option when you buy your…