Legend has it that back in the day, Charlie Britton, founder of Tartan Yachts, once fired a .45 at one of his boats to show that it was “bulletproof.” Designed by Sparkman & Stephens, the first Tartans were popular boats early in the fiberglass era. Tim Jackett, fresh out of school, came to work on the factory floor in 1974. Today he’s CEO and in-house designer at Tartan (and at companion
Fountaine Pajots new Mah 36 replaces the popular Athena 38 as the companys entry-level boat. Since many cat builders have shied away from smaller cruising models, I was eager to see how the Mah could provide interior headroom and volume without looking top-heavy or sacrificing bridgedeck clearance. I was also interested in learning how or if the shorter waterline would
The sturdy, traditionally styled offshore cruisers of Pacific Seacraft are part of the history of the fiberglass-boat industry. The company fell on hard times, however, and was sold last year. This is far from the first time a venerated brand has gone out of business, but Pacific Seacraft is being reborn, and in an unlikely place. Unlikely until you think about it.As the
Beneteau boats keep getting better looking while retaining the consistent quality and good finish that keep owners coming back as they move up in size. The new 46 could be an ultimate boat for many sailors who have experience in smaller vessels and are now looking for a stylish, fast, spacious boat that they can continue to sail into their retirement
Catalina boats typically have long production runs, and Catalina is more likely to tweak and update a boat than to totally redesign it. After building 1,039 Catalina 320s since 1993, with few changes other than offering a shallower wing keel about halfway through the production run, the company decided it was time to bring this popular vessel solidly into the new century.The
In a way, all sailboats that have an engine are hybrid-power sailers, but the Shannon 53 HPS is touted as the first motorsailer to maximize all three of these desirable elements: sailing, powering, and accommodation.There may be motorsailer builders who disagree with that claim to be the first, but it doesn’t take away from the fact that the boat is capable of
The King 40 is designed to be a true dual-purpose cruiser/racer, effective at racing offshore and around the cans as well as comfortable enough for family cruising. The deck plan was developed to allow plenty of room for a racing crew, but there are also comfortable places to sit in cruising mode. The lead bulb/narrow chord keel and high-aspect rudder should combine to provide
Shhhh, dont tell Famous Potatoes shes being included in an article about starter cats. She thinks shes at least 42 feet long, and shes about convinced me of it too. The most impressive thing about this boat is her incredibly spacious feel. Owners of larger cats have come aboard and exclaimed,Wow, you have so much room! What a beautiful boat!I fell in love with her lines when
The German builder Bavaria was sold for 1.3 billion euros in 2007, so it should not come as a surprise that the new owners are announcing new models. What surprises me a little is that the first new boat is a 34-footer rather than a big-ticket 60-footer. But then again, the new owners may realize that sticking with Bavarias proven high-volume production formula is probably a
Stylish French crusing catamaran Fountaine Pajot has been building cruising catamarans for a long time, and the company makes a refined product. I sailed the
Under the new policy, all products from Airmar will have a three year warranty, instead of the previous two year warranty.
Bocce ball, sea stories, and the best guacamole make a simple charter so much more.
When it comes to sun protection, it’s worth investing in your eyes.
Lively sailing, mind-bending history, rich culture, and…spelunking? A charter through Greece’s Cyclades Islands is abundant in every way.
In February, Falken, our Farr 65, made landfall in Falmouth, Antigua, sailing just over 3,000 miles in 16 days from Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, in brochure-perfect
A tempestuous night in a Carolina creek served up a lot of lessons.
The next big update to NOAA’s Custom Chart program will be in November, drawing criticism from those who want fixes for printed charts now.
Three new lightweight, rechargeable, waterproof lights from Exposure Marine maximize night vision and offshore safety. Exposure Marine, a UK-based company that specializes in high-performance lights
What better way to kick off the season that immersing in all things sailing at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show? It starts Friday, April 25, at City Dock in Annapolis.
While exploring the Canadian Maritimes, a side visit to Saint Pierre and Miquelon is a chance to enjoy another country altogether.
