The January 2011 issue of Practical Sailor is now available online at www.practical-sailor.com.
Highlights include an 18-month checkup on our test of wood finishes, a used boat review of the storied International Folkboat, and an on-the-water test of two new electric outboards. Technophiles who want to venture into the world of wireless technology will appreciate our field test of an affordable onboard wireless network. If you’re looking for a good book to enjoy this winter, we’ve reviewed 10 great ones to choose from.
I would like to wish you, your family, and friends a happy New Year!. We’ve been working hard to meet our readers’ wide expectations, and we are truly grateful to the loyal subscribers and contributors who help make this magazine what it is today. Thanks to you, Practical Sailor is able to continue to provide unbiased reports on gear and equipment without being burdened or influenced by advertisers.
The year 2011 will mark Practical Sailor’s 38th year of publication. We have some great plans for next year, including better web service, comprehensive tests of key cruising gear, and several special reports. As always, we look forward to sharing them with you and getting your feedback. On that note: If you haven’t yet contributed to our short bottom paint survey, we would greatly appreciate your participation. The survey is at the top of the home page at www.practical-sailor.com.
Finally, if you are planning to shove off on that cruise of a lifetime soon, don’t miss the Annapolis School of Seamanship’s annual Cruiser’s Workshop Feb. 12-13 at the Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies in Linthicum, Md. The all-star lineup includes Practical Sailor’s technical editor Ralph Naranjo, Lee Chesneau, former senior marine meteorologist for NOAA and owner of Lee Chesneau’s Marine Weather, and John Martino, founder and president of the Annapolis School of Seamanship.
In the January issue of Practical Sailor magazine:
Used Sailboat Review: International Folkboat, a Classic Pocket-cruiser
The genetic offspring of the Nordic Folkboat, this beloved 26-footer performs well in blustery conditions and remains popular with coastal cruisers and weekenders.
Boat Maintenance: 18-month Checkup on Wood Finishes Test
Practical Sailor rates varnishes and varnish alternatives as we search for the best exterior wood coating.
Marine Electronics: Build an Inexpensive Wireless Network
A Wi-Fi network paired with an external antenna revolutionizes the contemporary onboard nav station.
Practical Sailor Compares 3 Electric Outboards
Testers sea-trial the Torqeedo T-801, the new Torqeedo T-1003, and a lightweight competitor called the Electric Paddle.
Practical Sailor’s Picks for Fireside Reading
Practical Sailor editors pull 10 good winter reads off the shelf, including books on marine navigation, weather and weather management, knot-tying, and youthful adventures at sea.
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