“I have a 28-foot boat with a fractional rig. I’m thinking about mounting a radar reflector on the leading edge of the mast between the forestay and the masthead. Is this a good idea?”– Dave Adams, Newington, ConnecticutGordon West replies: Having a radar reflector is always a good idea; it can increase your boat’s target visibility by up to 6 miles.
This month: carrying a kite; a shorter scope; steering tips; sail saver; using lights on the high seas.VisibilityTo Flash or NotFlashing white lights are far more noticeable than fixed ones and can be much brighter for the same average power drain. However, its dangerous and illegal to show anything that could be confused with a navigation aid, so
Photos provided courtesy of the manufacturers It’s been a long time coming, but 2027 is truly the year of the cat. For the first time
Aspiring distance voyagers will find this newest cat a perfect fit.
While checking in on my parent’s boat at the yard, I saw this unusual keel. What’s the purpose of it? — Maddie Doherty, via sailmail@sailmagazine.com
The 2026 Newport International Boatshow is underway now. Here’s what to look forward to.
A new documentary relives the 1995 America’s Cup, as told by the American teams vying to defend the Auld Mug.
My parents, who have been collecting SAIL since I started working here like they did with my childhood artwork, are running out of storage space.
Team United by the Ocean took first place in the inaugural transatlantic race, with American-flagged 11th Hour Racing in a close second.
The temperatures are starting to cool off, the days are getting shorter, and your October issue is on its way. Here’s what’s coming up.
Offshore and offline go hand in hand.
Small electric outboards are becoming increasingly popular for everything
from dinghies to small race boats. We put three new models to the test.
