Reefing Safely
May 11, 2026
When it comes to managing a blow, reefing is just one part of the equation.
When it comes to managing a blow, reefing is just one part of the equation.
Log the Glass These days with weather forecasts available wherever there is WiFi, it doesn’t do to forget the old ways. Last season I was
Do away with mean reef points I’m always pleased to be on a boat with reef points for the mainsail. Without a stack pack, tying
Ditch the Squeaky Rope Look at the illustration and guess which rope kept me awake one night. It was, of course, the skinny one. The
The risk of going overboard—and how you brief it—depends entirely on context. Mia and I were at a wedding recently in England. The bride and
A cruising family revels in two seasons
of exploration in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
For some, steering by compass comes easily; for others, it takes a little getting used to.
Don’t clutter out all the rain Radar is great for micro-weather forecasting. With a modern set you can see instantly where it’s raining in your
The Bar Keeper’s Friend It doesn’t matter what a class act your boat is, I’ll bet the builders let a few so-called stainless steel bolts
Case It Up Fed up with your pilotage plans blowing away or being dissolved by rain and spray? There’s nothing like an old CD case.
To celebrate the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence, the international tall ship fleet is headed stateside.
A marine transformer with fun at its core.
The Cal 40 Nicole wins the St. David’s Lighthouse overall title, while Black Jack 100 takes line honors just shy of a course record. On the course: stunning scenery and a range of conditions. Off it: a scoring drama.
Good skippers manage the boat; great skippers manage the tension.
A spritely little cat that holds its own in a blow.
Analog alarms offer important feedback about how the boat is doing.
A friendly club boat with serious potential.
The lure of early-season boating is a beast with two heads.
A new four part docuseries details the Maxi Edmond de Rothschild campaign to defend the Route du Rhum title, available now on Youtube.
Eight Bells: Charlie Dalin
