SAIL.SailMagazine

I never used to read how-to articles in sailing magazines. They were too daunting. I might want to build a thingie or fix a whatnot, but a few paragraphs in, I would learn that success was possible only if certain conditions were met.

When the engine is under load and moving the boat at a decent speed, the voltmeter is pegged past 16 volts, and after a little while the wires (which are appropriately sized) running to the battery switch from the engine get pretty hot. Am I hurting my batteries?

I have built a 33ft Kelsall-designed catamaran with vacuum-bagged cored composite panels. I finished the exterior with International’s two-part Perfection polyurethane paint (in white)...

I just purchased a 1983 Bristol 38.8 with a large sail inventory, including a nice big cruising spinnaker. Apparently the old owner flew it out of the bag, which isn’t something I’m anxious to try. What would you recommend to make the sail easier to handle?

I recently purchased a used Hunter with VHF and SSB radios installed, both with MMSI numbers pre-memorized. To prepare for a bluewater cruise I am now installing an AIS transponder, and the technician has asked for another MMSI number. What should I do?