A thorough dockside inspection and sea trial will put you on the right course to find the boat that fits your needs If you’ve just spent a significant sum on your dream boat, the last thing you want is to discover major flaws early in ownership. Perhaps the boat struggles to get on plane with … Read more

Shifting shoals and changing markers make even the newest navigational data uncertain, but cruising the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) remains an unforgettable journey. Why the ICW demands constant vigilance Some of the biggest mistakes newcomers make on the ICW come from relying on a single guidebook — or from not reading any at all. Conditions … Read more

Crossing Between the U.S. and British Virgin Islands by Charter: A Practical Guide Chartering a boat to explore both the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a rewarding adventure, but it requires understanding two separate customs and immigration systems. Since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, entry procedures on … Read more

Reflections from Ashore: Choosing the Next Boat Anyone who has spent time without a boat knows the odd, persistent ache of boatlessness. It’s not simply missing an object; it’s a running commentary in the back of your mind. A storm on the forecast and you’re imagining extra lines. A sudden cold front and you’re picturing … Read more

Protecting Your Boat from Ethanol Damage: Fuel Stabilizers and Winter Preparation Proper winterizing of your boat’s fuel system and engine is essential when gasoline contains ethanol. Ethanol-blended fuels can absorb moisture and act as a solvent, leading to water accumulation, degraded fuel system components, clogged lines, and engine problems. Taking a few straightforward steps before … Read more

Huckins Yachts: Heritage, Design and Offshore Performance Frank Huckins’ granddaughter, Cindy Purcell, began working in the Huckins Yachts stockroom in the 1970s. Today she and her husband, Buddy Purcell, own and operate the company that first made its reputation building PT boats. That lineage still shapes the brand: Huckins now produces semicustom yachts that appeal … Read more

Popular coupe-style cruisers are designed to do it all Boat manufacturers have introduced many new model names over the years, and “coupe” has emerged as a distinct and popular category among cruiser buyers. Coupe-style cruisers blend sporty, expressive exterior lines with a fully enclosed deckhouse, giving owners the flexibility to enjoy open-air dayboating and comfortable, … Read more

Axopar 29: The Upgraded Successor to the AX28 The Axopar 29 replaces the original AX28 with a refined package aimed at buyers who want a versatile, high-performance dayboat or weekend cruiser. Offered in Sun Top and Cross Cabin layouts, the new 29 benefits from improved hydrodynamics and a number of practical refinements that make it … Read more

Adventure Awaits Kilkea is a 268-foot concept expedition superyacht designed to tackle remote and demanding environments while offering luxurious comfort. Presented by Shackleton Superyachts, the vessel is proposed with an Ice Class steel hull and a build at Vard in Ålesund, Norway, reflecting a commitment to rugged construction and shipyard expertise. Propulsion is diesel-electric, combining … Read more

Waiting for the tide The 48-foot fishing vessel Sisiutl ran hard aground in Portage Bay, Alaska, during a severe wind and sea event. At the time of the grounding, winds were reported at about 35 mph with seas of 4 to 8 feet. When the tide rose, salvage crews were able to tow Sisiutl to … Read more