Harbor Hopping the U.S. West Coast: A Cruiser’s Guide from Oregon to Avalon: https://www.practical-sailor.com/voyaging/harbor-hopping-the-u-s-west-coast-a-cruisers-guide-from-oregon-to-avalon/ Can you actually live on a boat in New York State? In this video we take a deep, fact-driven look at what it really takes to live aboard a sailboat in places like New York City, the Hudson River, and Long Island Sound. We break down marina rules, municipal regulations, and the realities of winter boating in the Northeast. From liveaboard marina policies and No Discharge Zone sewage laws to the availability of slips, moorings, and pump-out stations, this video explains how New York treats boats compared to traditional housing. If you're considering living on a sailboat in NYC, or wondering whether liveaboard life is legal in New York, this research pulls together the actual policies and marina practices you need to know. We also examine the real cost of living on a boat in New York, including dockage rates, marina fees, winter storage, insurance, and heating requirements. Using examples from Hudson River and Long Island Sound marinas, we show what it actually costs to keep a 30–40 foot cruising sailboat in the water year-round. Whether you're dreaming about living aboard in Manhattan, commuting from a marina across the Hudson, or finding a harbor on Long Island Sound, this video explains the financial and practical realities of the liveaboard lifestyle in New York. Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

The Odette 40 is a capable coastal cruiser, not a blue water battle wagon. While it *can* cross oceans, it lacks the structural conservatism of dedicated offshore yachts. Key inspection points: fiberglass structural grid bonding, balsa-cored deck for leaks, original portlights, and deck-stepped mast compression post. #Odette40 #BoatReview #Sailing #Yacht #Cruising

Irwin Citation 38 Used Boat Review: https://www.practical-sailor.com/sailboat-reviews/irwin-citation-38/ Is the Watkins 27 the ultimate small cruising sailboat? In this video, we take a deep dive into the Watkins 27 — a classic 27-foot sailboat built between 1977 and 1984 — and find out if this affordable cruiser could be the perfect liveaboard sailboat or even a capable Bahamas sailboat for budget sailors. If you’ve been searching for a cheap sailboat, a beginner sailboat, or a small liveaboard sailboat, the Watkins 27 might be exactly what you’re looking for. With its wide beam, heavy displacement, and stable design, this boat has quietly earned a reputation as a comfortable coastal cruising sailboat that can handle real-world sailing, including trips to the Bahamas and extended cruising on a budget. We cover everything you need to know about the Watkins 27, including specs, sailing performance, comfort, common problems, and what real owners say about living on and sailing this boat. Whether you’re looking for a starter sailboat, a budget cruising sailboat, or wondering if a 27-foot sailboat is big enough to live on, this video will help you decide. If you’re dreaming about living on a sailboat, buying your first boat, or finding an affordable way to get into sailing, this is one you don’t want to miss. #Watkins27 #SmallSailboat #CruisingSailboat #LiveaboardSailboat #27FootSailboat #CheapSailboat #BeginnerSailboat #SailingLife #BoatReview #SailboatsForSale #BudgetSailing #LiveaboardLife #BahamasSailing #CoastalCruising Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Make Your Own Offshore Sails and Save Thousands: https://www.practical-sailor.com/sails-rigging-deckgear/sails-canvas/make-your-own-offshore-sails-and-save-thousands/ How long do sails actually last? Sailmakers often say cruising sails last around 10–15 years, but what happens when you discover a sail that’s nearly 50 years old? In this video I head to the sail loft to inspect the sails on my sailboat Lady K and uncover a surprising piece of sailing history: a genoa that turns out to be the original sail from 1980. That discovery raises an important question every sailor eventually faces when maintaining a sailboat — how long should sails really last? We break down the lifespan of Dacron sails vs laminate sails, why cruising sails can sometimes survive for decades, and the real factors that determine when a sail needs replacing. From UV damage and stitching failure to sail shape and performance loss, this video explains what sailors, cruisers, and boat owners should know before ordering expensive new sails. If you’re wondering whether your mainsail or genoa is worn out, or how to extend the life of your sails, this deep dive into sail longevity will help you understand what really happens to sailcloth over time. how long do sails last,sailboat sails lifespan,dacron vs laminate sails,when to replace sails,sailboat maintenance,cruising sailboats,sailboat genoa,sailboat mainsail,dacron sail longevity,sailing tips,sailboat gear,sail loft,sail inspection,cruising sails vs racing sails,sailboat ownership,sailing education Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Alberg 37 Used Boat Review: https://www.practical-sailor.com/sailboat-reviews/sailboats-36-40ft/alberg-37-used-boat-review/ The Morgan 382 might be one of the most overlooked cruising sailboats ever built. Designed by legendary naval architect Ted Brewer and produced between 1977 and 1982, this 38-foot cruising sailboat has quietly built a reputation for being strong, comfortable offshore, and surprisingly capable under sail. With a fin keel, skeg-hung rudder, 17,000 lb displacement, and nearly 40% ballast ratio, the Morgan 382 was designed in the era when cruising boats were built for real ocean passages. Today, many of these boats can still be found on the used market for $20,000–$40,000, making it one of the most affordable ways to own a serious cruising sailboat. In this video we take a closer look at the Morgan 382 sailboat, including its design history, specs, performance, interior layout, common owner concerns, and why it may be one of the best budget cruising sailboats still available today. If you're researching affordable bluewater sailboats, classic cruising yachts, or considering a liveaboard or offshore cruising boat, the Morgan 382 might surprise you. #sailboat #sailing #bluewatercruising #sailboatreview #usedsailboat #cruisingsailboat #liveaboardboat #sailinglife Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Discover the O'Day 40, a surprisingly capable offshore cruiser from a once-dominant US manufacturer. Could this be the 1980s' best-kept secret for sailors? #ODay40 #Sailboat #CruisingSailboat #Yachting #HiddenGem

Inside Sail America’s Plan to Grow the Sport and the Industry: https://www.practical-sailor.com/subscriber-only/inside-sail-americas-plan-to-grow-the-sport-and-the-industry/ Lightning striking a sailboat sounds like something out of a disaster movie—but what actually happen when it does? In this episode, we break down what really happens when lightning hits a sailboat, how the electrical energy travels through the mast and rigging, and why some boats survive with minor damage while others suffer catastrophic failures. We’ll look at the physics behind lightning strikes, how the current tries to reach the water, and why poor grounding systems can lead to blown hulls, destroyed electronics, or even boats sinking at the dock. Using real-world examples from marine surveys, insurance reports, and sailing publications, we explain how lightning travels through a sailboat’s structure, what components usually fail first, and why modern boats packed with electronics are especially vulnerable. We’ll also cover the most effective ways sailors can reduce lightning damage, including proper mast grounding, bonding systems, keel grounding paths, and practical storm precautions that experienced cruisers use. If you’ve ever wondered whether your mast really acts like a lightning rod—or what happens if lightning actually hits your boat—this video explains the science and the real-world consequences. Topics covered: • What happens when lightning hits a sailboat • How lightning travels through a mast and rigging • Why boat electronics are often destroyed by lightning strikes • Real lightning strike damage to sailboats • Mast grounding and lightning protection systems • How to reduce lightning damage on your boat Whether you’re a coastal sailor, cruiser, or liveaboard, understanding lightning risk and protection can help you better prepare your boat for offshore storms. #Sailing #SailboatMaintenance #BoatElectrical #LightningStrike #PracticalSailor #BoatOwnership #CruisingSailboat Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Moody 46 CC Used Boat Review: https://www.practical-sailor.com/sailboat-reviews/sailboats-over40ft/moody-46-cc-used-boat-review/ The O’Day 40 (1986) is one of those cruising sailboats that somehow slipped through the cracks of sailing history. Built during the final years of O’Day Yachts, this 40-foot masthead sloop blends comfortable cruising performance with a surprisingly spacious liveaboard layout. In this video we dive into the history of O’Day sailboats, the reputation of the company, and what owners and reviewers say about the O’Day 40 as a cruising boat. We’ll also look at sailing characteristics, common issues to inspect during a survey, and whether this classic 1980s cruiser could still make a great budget cruising sailboat today. We also take a look at a 1986 O’Day 40 currently listed for sale through La Paz Yachts in Mexico, which you’ll see in the B-roll footage used in this video. If you’d like to check out the listing and walkthrough video, you can find the link below. For sailors looking for a 40-foot cruising sailboat under $50,000, the O’Day 40 might be one of the most overlooked value boats on the water. Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Leaping Into Lithium: https://www.practical-sailor.com/marine-electronics/leaping-into-lithium/ Lithium batteries are one of the most popular sailboat upgrades today—but they’re also one of the most misunderstood. In this Practical Sailor Saturday episode, we break down the three biggest mistakes sailors make when installing lithium batteries on sailboats, and why these errors can lead to damaged alternators, shortened battery life, and unexpected electrical failures. This is not a lithium sales pitch. It’s a reality check. We cover: • Why lithium batteries are not a drop-in replacement for lead-acid or AGM • How lithium charging can silently destroy alternators and regulators • Why cold-weather charging permanently damages lithium batteries • The truth about Battery Management Systems (BMS) and what they really protect • When lithium makes sense—and when it absolutely doesn’t If you’re considering a lithium upgrade, already have lithium on your boat, or are trying to decide between lithium and AGM, this video will help you avoid expensive mistakes and design a safer, more reliable electrical system. Topics sailors are searching for: lithium batteries on sailboats lithium vs AGM marine batteries sailboat electrical systems marine lithium battery mistakes alternator overheating lithium boat battery upgrades Subscribe for more Practical Sailor videos focused on real-world boat ownership, maintenance, and systems—without the marketing hype. Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Most sailors don't know their EPIRB's true power. Modern EPIRBs transmit your exact GPS position instantly to satellites. Unregistered or older models rely on slower Doppler shift, widening the search area dramatically. Registration, battery life, and knowing deployment are critical for survival. #EPIRB #SailingSafety #MarineElectronics #SeaRescue #BoatingTips

Pacific Seacraft 34 and 37: https://www.practical-sailor.com/sailboat-reviews/pacific-seacraft-34-and-37/ What makes a small sailboat truly seaworthy? In this video, we take a deep dive into the Pacific Seacraft Orion 27, a rugged, long-keel cutter that proves size isn’t everything when it comes to offshore capability. Built by Pacific Seacraft, this 27-foot sailboat has the DNA of much larger cruising boats, with heavy displacement, an encapsulated long keel, external chainplates, and a conservative rig designed for real sailing, not dockside fashion. Inspired by the famous cruising philosophy of Lynn and Larry Pardey, this video explores why “go small, go simple” still makes sense today, especially if you’re thinking about cruising, living aboard, or traveling on a serious small sailboat. We look at construction, performance, comfort underway, and why boats like the Orion 27 are often compared to classic offshore cruisers like the Baba 30, just in a more affordable and manageable size. If you’re considering a small cruising sailboat, wondering whether you really need more than 27 feet, or curious why some sailors deliberately choose older, heavier designs over modern production boats, this video breaks it all down from a Practical Sailor perspective. Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Six New Products for Sailors at the Miami International Boat Show: https://www.practical-sailor.com/subscriber-only/six-new-products-for-sailors-seen-at-the-miami-international-boat-show/6/ Most sailboat electrical failures aren’t random — they’re predictable. In this Practical Sailor–style breakdown, we explain why sailboat wiring fails over time, how corrosion and vibration quietly kill electrical systems, and what ABYC actually requires for marine wiring. We cover marine wire vs household wire, common wiring mistakes, bad connections, proper crimps, and what boat buyers and owners should look for during inspections and surveys. Whether you’re buying a used sailboat or maintaining your current one, this video will help you spot electrical red flags before they ruin your day on the water. Topics include: marine wiring basics, ABYC electrical standards, boat wiring corrosion, proper marine connections, sailboat electrical inspections, and common sailboat wiring mistakes. Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Hate that boat lean? Discover which sailboats minimize heel, turning hesitant sailors into active participants. Learn how numbers predict comfort and keep everyone on the water. #Sailboat #SailingTips #Heel #Boating #MarineLife

Keep Birds Away from Your Boat and Dock: https://www.practical-sailor.com/boat-maintenance/keep-birds-away-from-your-boat-and-dock/ Thinking about buying a 40–45 foot cruising sailboat? Before you default to a Beneteau, Jeanneau, Catalina, or Hunter, this in-depth Practical Sailor review takes a hard, honest look at the Hanse 430E — a German-built cruising sailboat with a very different design philosophy. In this video, we break down everything buyers actually want to know about the Hanse 430E, including real-world ownership considerations, construction quality, sailing performance, and long-term durability. We take a close look at what the “E” (epoxy construction) really means, why epoxy matters for osmosis resistance and structural stiffness, and how it affects repairs and maintenance compared to traditional polyester or vinylester hulls. We also cover how the Hanse 430E compares to popular French production sailboats like Beneteau and Jeanneau, as well as American brands like Catalina and Hunter. Why do some sailors choose a Hanse instead? And why might others stick with the more common production boats? This review explains the tradeoffs clearly, without marketing hype. Topics covered in this video include: Hanse 430E specs in US measurements Epoxy hull construction explained for buyers Sailing performance and handling, including the self-tacking jib Deck layout and short-handed sailing advantages Interior layout, livability, and cruising comfort Common owner-reported issues and survey focus points What to look for when buying a used Hanse 430E Why the Hanse 430E sails differently than typical production cruisers If you’re shopping for a 43-foot cruising sailboat, planning to cruise as a couple, or trying to decide between a Hanse and a Beneteau, this video is designed to give you the big picture — the good, the bad, and the practical reality of ownership. Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Old Boats, New Generations: The Real Value of Our Cruising Life: https://www.practical-sailor.com/voyaging/old-boats-new-generations-the-real-value-of-our-cruising-life/ Tartan Yachts is one of the most respected names in American sailboat building — but in recent years, the brand found itself caught in the wake of the Catalina Yachts controversy and a rapid wave of industry consolidation. In this video, we take a deep dive into the full Tartan story: from its early roots at Douglass & McLeod, to the devastating 1971 factory fire that reshaped the company, to the legendary boats that made sailors fiercely loyal to the brand. We explore why models like the Tartan 27 became classics, how Tartan earned a reputation for conservative engineering and advanced composites, and why so many sailors believe these boats are built to last. We also break down what happened when Michael Reardon acquired multiple American sailboat manufacturers, how the Catalina fallout raised concerns across the sailing world, and how Tartan ultimately emerged under new ownership — avoiding deeper turmoil that affected other brands. This is not a boat review. It’s an industry story about American boatbuilding, ownership risk, legacy brands, and why Tartan Yachts still matters today for sailors, buyers, and owners alike. Whether you’re a longtime Tartan owner, considering buying a used Tartan sailboat, or trying to understand what’s happening in the modern sailboat industry, this video gives you the context you won’t find in sales brochures or forum rumors. 📌 Topics covered: Tartan Yachts history and origins The 1971 Douglass & McLeod factory fire The Tartan 27 and other iconic Tartan sailboats Why sailors trust and defend Tartan Yachts Catalina Yachts ownership controversy explained How Tartan survived consolidation in the sailboat industry If you enjoy in-depth sailing content, sailboat history, and practical insights into buying and owning boats, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments. Tartan Videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9w0LUtR77qo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMzCuWqEoF0&list=PL-EzXUlVm8oth7PBCkHQVbwWDhCLUu1SY Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Forget the fanfare. The Catalina 42 quietly crosses oceans, lives onboard, and gets bought again. Owners praise its practicality and comfort for couples, making it a Caribbean cruising favorite. Refined over years of real-world use, it offers confidence and control. #Catalina42 #CruisingSailboat #SailingLife #Yachting #BoatReview

Activating an EPIRB offshore connects you directly to COSPAS SARSAT, a global satellite search and rescue system. Since 1982, it's credited with over 19,000 rescues, saving more than 63,000 lives. #EPIRB #SatelliteRescue #SearchAndRescue #SafetyAtSea #MaritimeSafety

Bristol 39/40 Used Boat Review: https://www.practical-sailor.com/sailboat-reviews/bristol-39-40/ You can find Bristol 39s and Bristol 40s for around $40,000 — and at first glance, that sounds like one of the best deals in cruising sailboats. Forty feet. Ted Hood design. Classic CCA lines. Solid fiberglass hull. Encapsulated lead keel. So why are they so affordable? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Bristol 39 and Bristol 40 — their history, construction, sailing characteristics, stability numbers, cockpit design, rig options, and real-world ownership considerations. We also look at the Pearson–Grumman split that led to the founding of Bristol Yachts, and how that philosophy shaped the boat. Is this a legitimate budget bluewater cruiser… or a vintage classic that requires clear-eyed expectations? If you're considering buying a Bristol 40, shopping for an affordable offshore sailboat, or just want to understand CCA-era cruiser design, this episode breaks down the facts so you can decide for yourself. Topics covered: History of Bristol Yachts and Clint Pearson Ted Hood’s design influence Construction details and encapsulated keel Stability and offshore capability Interior volume vs modern 40-footers Cockpit drainage and offshore considerations Sloop, cutter, and yawl rig options What ownership really costs beyond the $40K price tag If you enjoy deep-dive sailboat reviews, subscribe for more Practical Sailor-style analysis every week. Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

How to Replace Sailboat Plexiglass Windows: A DIY Guide: https://www.practical-sailor.com/boat-maintenance/diy-projects/how-to-replace-sailboat-plexiglass-windows-a-diy-guide/ Do you—or someone you sail with—hate heeling? You’re not alone. For many sailors, excessive heel is the single biggest reason people feel uncomfortable on sailboats or stop sailing altogether. In this Practical Sailor–style deep dive, we ask a simple question with a surprisingly technical answer: which sailboats heel the least? Using real design data from popular cruising sailboats between 38 and 42 feet, we break down the key factors that influence heel, including sail area to displacement ratio, ballast ratio, displacement length ratio, and overall stability characteristics. We compare conservative heavy cruisers to modern production boats and explain why some designs feel calm and steady while others feel lively—or even intimidating—at the same wind speed. This isn’t about speed or racing. It’s about comfort, confidence, and keeping people sailing. If you’ve ever sailed with a nervous partner, a hesitant family member, or if you yourself dislike the feeling of a boat leaning too far, this video will help you understand which designs tend to sail flatter and why. We also explain an important truth many sailors miss: heeling isn’t just about the boat—it’s about sail power, reefing habits, and how a boat is sailed. Some boats are naturally harder to knock over, while others reward early reefing and careful trim. Boats discussed include popular cruising designs from Pearson, Hallberg-Rassy, Island Packet, Catalina, Beneteau, Jeanneau, Bavaria, and Dufour. If you’re shopping for a sailboat, sailing with a reluctant crew, or simply want a calmer, more comfortable experience under sail, this video is for you. Practical Sailor is your trusted resource for reviews of sailboats and sailing gear. https://www.practical-sailor.com Chat with us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/PracticalSailor/

Older boats can be surprisingly good insurance risks. Learn how to navigate insuring your vintage vessel: coverage types, surveys, documentation, and realistic valuation. Ignore those internet myths! #BoatInsurance #VintageBoats #MarineInsurance #BoatingTips