The Thimble Islands are a scenic cluster of pink granite islets off the Connecticut coast, clustered around the friendly harbor village of Stony Creek. Favored by boaters and day-trippers on Long Island Sound, the Thimbles offer classic New England shoreline scenery, peaceful anchorages, and easy access to the shops and services of Stony Creek. Depending … Read more

Walter Cronkite: Anchorman and Passionate Sailor Walter Cronkite, long known as “the most trusted man in America,” is remembered not only for his steady presence at the CBS Evening News but also for his deep love of sailing. Cronkite, who died of cerebrovascular disease on July 17 at his New York City home, was 92. … Read more

In his recently released book, Nick Schuyler recounts the tragedy that claimed the lives of his three friends Nick Schuyler, the lone survivor of the widely publicized February 2009 boating accident in the Gulf of Mexico, has written a detailed account of the ordeal. In Not Without Hope, co-written with New York Times sportswriter Jere … Read more

How to Buy the Right Boat: A Practical Guide Regardless of a boat’s age, an informed approach will save you time, money and headache. The current market favors buyers, so if your circumstances allow, now is a good time to shop. Success comes from being a discerning buyer—knowing what to look for and matching a … Read more

Advances in Marine Diesel and Gas Inboard/Sterndrive Engines Technology for diesel and gasoline inboard and sterndrive propulsion experienced a major leap in 2012, with manufacturers introducing lighter, more efficient, quieter and cleaner powerplants. Leading engine builders and drive makers — including Cummins, Mercury, Volvo Penta and Yanmar — rolled out new models and refreshed platforms … Read more

When I first saw the evocative photograph of the compact, diesel-powered Down Easter featured on this month’s cover, I knew it had to run in the magazine. The image captures a timeless moment at sea: a clean, purposeful boat, quietly confident in its element. Give me that scene any day. The boat is the North … Read more

Si-Tex’s NavStar series brings advanced navigation and situational awareness to a compact, user-friendly package. The NavStar 10 (10-inch) and NavStar 12 (12-inch) multifunction displays combine radar, sonar, chart plotting and onboard entertainment into single dashboard units designed for use on a wide range of recreational and light-commercial vessels. With both modern touchscreen controls and traditional … Read more

Nordic Tugs has introduced an updated version of its popular 39-footer, now featuring a lower-profile flybridge with a redesigned helm and an intuitive joystick-style docking control. The new silhouette reduces windage and enhances the sightlines from the pilothouse and bridge. “We have always been known for the great view from our flybridges, and with this … Read more

If you head to Maine by boat, a lobster roll is practically required. Cruise to Philadelphia and you’ll tie up and grab a cheesesteak at Pat’s or Geno’s. On Chesapeake Bay, the Maryland-style crab cake is a perfect excuse for a day on the water. Food and boating have long been natural companions, and that … Read more

Power Catamarans Are Becoming the Top Choice for Bareboat Charters Owners of runabouts, sailboats, fishing boats and midsize motoryachts are increasingly contacting bareboat charter companies with a specific request: power catamarans. These twin-hulled vessels are drawing attention as an ideal option for vacationers who want more space, comfort and versatility while cruising. “The power catamaran … Read more