September 13, 2012
Mustang Catalyst Floater Jacket
Always the industry standard in personal safety gear and flotation, Mustang has continued product improvement to make their life-saving gear more comfortable. Their new Survival Catalyst Jacket features lightweight, breathable and waterproof layers they call the M-Tech Comfort System. The fabric layers are also more flexible allowing work or play while still protecting the wearer from foul weather. This line has quickly become the favourite of professionals but is equally affordable by pleasure boaters. Retail price for the jacket is about $650 and comes in sizes from Small to 2XL in red and black.
September 13, 2012
Jefa Autopilot AP-1&2
This new pilot from Denmark is now carried by Rekord Marine. The Jefa AP is a well-engineered autopilot that uses a three-dimensional integral (fluxgate style) compass and is independent of a GPS link or chartplotter. The AP models are suitable for both tiller and wheel-steered vessels, and are ideal for boats up to 45’. They are easily DIY-installed and very price competitive. Suggested retail for the 12-volt system with autopilot and separate rudder feedback is $2,559.
September 6, 2012
Don’t Bug Me!
I’m on vacation! Things can turn ugly in paradise when you finally reach that secluded anchorage. You set the hook and kill the engines, but the buzzing sound continues…you are not alone! Black flies, mosquitoes, wasps and of course, the little army of invisible spiders that you accidentally brought with you, all emerge in the stillness, buzzing around looking for something, or someone to munch on. Hopefully, you packed the AfterBite, lotions, antiseptic, cotton balls, antihistamine for those with allergies, BandAids and other first aid items, but the best route is to protect yourself from being bitten in the first place.
August 24, 2012
Hella Flexi Chart-Table Light
The new red/white LED chart-table lights from Hella makes night navigation less stressful. We learned just how important night vision is on a long transit earlier this summer, when we needed to do some careful night navigation through upper Desolation Sound. Navigation aids are few and far between so confidence about the course is paramount, and a constant reference to charts is needed. Cabin lighting is critical. Ordinary white lights in any cabin will quickly ruin night vision, so a dim red light for navigation is ideal. The new unit from Hella is a very low draw 2W or 0.2 Amp at 12-volt, and stays cool to the touch.
August 24, 2012
Pro-Furl Spinex Spinnaker Furler
Setting a spinnaker just got easier thanks to the introduction of a totally new approach – a top-down roller furling mechanism from Pro-Furl. This impressive product helps tame one of the most frustrating, and sometimes dangerous jobs in sailing, setting and retrieving a spinnaker. Traditionally this has meant some monkey-like fore deck work and some awkward retrieving sail hardware from a little-used storage bag, then reversing the process and trying to stuff a large and sometimes wet sail into a bag that seems too small, and doing all this with poor footing on a heaving deck with no hand-holds for steadying.
August 24, 2012
OceanAir Shades and Blinds
It’s hard to remember that we will get cool and breezy days in spring and fall after such hot days this summer – or that we need protection from all that heat. And most everywhere in Canada had hot days this year. Thankfully there is a line of products from OceanAir that are designed to minimize the discomfort that hot weather brings. Their lines of Pleated shades are designed for portlights, Cabinshades for larger windows, and Skysaver roller shades for hatches, all serve to minimize heat gain on board, but remain moveable so that cooling breezes can still be harnessed.
June 27, 2012
ePaint
With spring commissioning delayed in the west by poor weather this year, you may still have time to consider a new bottom paint that has been proving itself in field trials for several seasons now. ePaint (no, it’s not another product from Apple Computers) is new technology. The barnacle-resisting chemistry is a combination of effective antifouling ablative resins that are held in place by a special paint substrate. It differs from all other bottom paints because it contains no biocides, nor any heavy metals such as copper or tin.
June 27, 2012
Electro-Scan Waste Treatment System
With increasingly stringent waste discharge legislation in both Canadian and US waters, boaters looking for waste removal solutions have at least a couple of options. Holding tanks are the obvious first-level fix but, of course, these need a pump-out station and there are not many of those on this coast. Raritan has another option for vessels up to 65’ in length.
June 27, 2012
Ronstan Sailing-Timing Watch
Long a trusted name in sailing hardware and gear, Ronstan has developed an impressive line of sailing performance watches. We used one at a regatta recently and found it both intuitive and easy to use. The screen was readily visible even in the hectic race action and in direct sunlight. All models are fully waterproof and feature a variety of functions for the sailor, the racer or the outdoor enthusiast. Day or stop functions are standard, as are audible alarm and countdown settings for racing starts. The LCD display has large numerals for easy reading in any boating environment.
June 27, 2012
Xtra-Large Carryall
There is never enough storage on most boats and carrying gear back and forth can be a hassle. A former sailor agreed and made a carryall that she used in her boating. It worked so well she is making them for other boaters. This expandable carryall is made of tough nylon net and webbing material and is surprisingly tough, yet it can swallow dozens of items. We found it really useful for life jackets, foul- weather gear and sea boots, for example. The maker claims she once put 24 life-jackets into hers and we can believe it. It measures 54” by 56” and is complete with a drawstring closure and carrying handles.
June 27, 2012
Anchor Rode and Chain from CMP
The new integrated chain and rope anchor rode from Canada Metals (CMP) is a welcome addition to ground tackle for any boat. Canada Metals (CMP) is no stranger to West Coast boaters – most of us have been using their anodes for years. In an effort to expand their product offerings, this past year CMP management purchased Rocna anchors to complement their Titan brand chain products.
June 27, 2012
Tactical Flashlight – TEAL XF3000
This impressive LED flashlight is powered by three Lithium-Ion batteries, each producing 3.7 volts (not AAA as reported earlier). These are rechargeable batteries and the light kit includes the charger. The light can be reduced in size and weight by unscrewing one battery in its case and it will work well with the remaining two batteries. We liked the brilliance of the three-battery set-up best. The suggested retail price is just under $200 for the whole kit.
June 26, 2012
Tactical Flashlight – TEAL XF3000 – Correction
We introduced the Teal Tactical Flashlight last month but made a mistake in its technical description. This impressive LED flashlight is actually powered by three Lithium-Ion batteries, each producing 3.7 volts (not AAA as reported earlier). These are rechargeable batteries and the light kit includes the charger. The light can be reduced in size and weight by unscrewing one battery in its case and it will work well with the remaining two batteries. We liked the brilliance of the three-battery set-up best. The suggested retail price is just under $200 for the whole kit.
May 8, 2012
Footprint Boats
This entirely new boat design is definitely from the “and now for something completely different” school of design. Why not a family-oriented boat that incorporates a number of features from the inexpensive and compact, pop-up tent trailer designs? Pop-up tent trailers were introduced decades ago for motoring families and they opened up comfort camping to those who wanted a bit more in the way of amenities than ground-pitched tents could provide. We used one for many years when we camped throughout northern areas in our younger years BB (before boats).
May 8, 2012
Softlines Mooring Lines
Spring commissioning is a great time to take a close look at mooring lines – is an upgrade or replacement in order? After handling mooring lines all last summer, we quickly became fans of softer polypropylene ropes, especially those from Softlines. These are the ultimate in softness in the hand and are super flexible, even in the cold. Like all poly lines, they float and so are less of a danger of fouling props or running gear. We also like how Softlines provide eye-splices through strongly stitched nylon webbing. Tests show the line will fail before the web attachments do.
May 8, 2012
Maxwell RC Series Anchor Windlass
Maxwell has put some effort into designing a windlass system with a gypsy that will accept any manufacturer’s chain profile. This was a challenge as there is no common standard of profile of chain even for a given size, including G4, Metric, BBB or proof coil, for example. And it’s further complicated as many boats use a length of chain that is spliced to nylon line for the remainder of the rode. A windlass has to be able to handle all these variations. The result is a new series of anchor windlasses, the RC6, 8 and 10. Each has been designed to accept common chain sizes and its accompanying nylon line.
May 8, 2012
SOS Dan Buoy
This new “man-overboard” device is one of the best safety products that we have seen in a long while. If a boat loses someone overboard there are a variety of signaling and retrieving systems available, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. The SOS Dan Buoy from Australia is a real improvement over any existing product in how it works. When stored, it is a compact package about half the size of a typical briefcase and it weighs only about six lbs. It can be stored nearby inside the cockpit or the main outside helm. When needed, it requires only a quick toss overboard, as close as possible to the person lost overboard, and it does the rest.
May 8, 2012
ICOM “New Look” Marine Electronics
Though ICOM has been a well-regarded manufacturer of marine electronics for many years, they were a bit late to the market with fully integrated products. Not any longer! ICOM recently announced a “new look” family of marine electronics that meets the competitive offerings and goes a step further. We were first impressed with the new M92D hand-held marine VHF radio. It now has a fully functioning GPS receiver built in and continuously shows the current Lat/Long in the screen to the left of the radio channel setting.
May 8, 2012
Harken Performa Winches
Sailing hardware manufacturer Harken is offering a new set of performance winches that are specifically designed for sport sailboats or performance cruising sailboats from 30 to 50 feet in length. Performa winches are midway between Harken’s two existing winch sizes and are specifically designed for smaller diameter, high-strength lines such as Dyneema and Kevlar /PET-covered lines that are common on this size of sailing craft today. The winches are built of rugged components and have composite self-tailing jaws, which are shaped for easy line entry and give the best in gripping power on the winch drum.
May 8, 2012
DeRust Cleaning Products
Rusty metal products can sour seasonal cleaning and commissioning chores and until recently there hasn’t been much available that easily eliminates rust stains on any boat. Even good quality stainless steel will rust in places if left unattended. And untreated iron or steel will quickly rust in marine environments. Recently, Protocol Environmental, a local manufacturer of specialty chemicals introduced us to their newest product, DeRust, a rust treatment product that can be brushed or sprayed on.
May 8, 2012
Cobra Two-Way (GMRS) Radios
GMRS radios – often called civilian pattern – are ideal companions to marine VHF radios. Popular for many years, Cobra has introduced a new pair that impressed us and our boating companions. We have always used these products for communication between dinghy and “mother” ship or between buddy boaters who want to talk freely without using priority VHF channels. These are called “civilian” because their use requires no license and range is limited to about fifteen miles or so.
April 25, 2012
Autotether™ Gives Wireless Freedom in an Engine Shutdown Safety System
In the U.S., new engine shutdown regulations are being introduced but doesn’t a safety switch system make a lot of sense anyway? Autotether's™ wireless lanyard system recently received the Connecticut Technology Council 2011 Innovation Pipeline Award as the most promising new technology product of the year.
April 18, 2012
Protect Your Boat From Chafing With “No-Wear” Guards
Chafing and rubbing from mooring lines, sheets, halyards and fender ropes can ruin the appearance of your boat and cost a fortune to fix. No-Wear Guard can stop the chafing damage on almost every kind of boat. No-Wear chafe guards are the first in the world to combine high-quality, flexible marine grade stainless steel with an aircraft-quality adhesive, creating a product that will look great and protect your gel coat, wood or plastic for years to come.
April 10, 2012
Keep an Eye on Things with Gost™ “Mini Ball” Cameras
GOST™ (Global Ocean Security Technologies – formerly Paradox Marine) has introduced several new models of its GOST Mini Ball Camera. The camera is now available in PAL, reverse image (NTSC and PAL) and also in wide angle with a 2.8 mm lens for enhanced security and surveillance on board. Measuring only 2.4 inches (61mm) in diameter, this rugged, marine grade, water – resistant and tamper proof analogue camera – just slightly larger then a golf ball – can be mounted discreetly inside or out – and it won’t detract from a boat or yacht’s decor or ambience.
March 9, 2012
Digital Yacht Puts A Wireless “Wi-Fi” Hot Spot On Your Boat
Wireless is the “buzz” in marine electronics with more and more applications available for wireless devices such as iPhones and iPads. With lots of onboard systems using legacy NMEA 0183 data, Digital Yacht America has devised a NMEA to WiFi adaptor – a small black box unit which converts traditional NMEA navigation and instrument data into a wireless TCP/IP feed. Essentially, it creates a local WiFi hot spot on board your boat which your mobile device can access. Many software applications allow data to be read through an individual TCP/IP port (e.g., iNAVx for the iPhone/iPad) or SmarterTrack 2011 PC navigation software.
March 1, 2012
Racers Will Love the Gill Regatta Master Watch II
The lightweight, new and improved Regatta Master Watch II from Gill is designed specifically for the competitive sailor. Water resistant to 50 meters, features include a stopwatch, countdown timer – with Sync function, compass, calendar and alarm, all displayed on a large digital screen. Serious racers will enjoy the countdown feature that gives a sound signal every minute, and in the last minute prior to the race start, the seconds count down in a large full screen display for ease of viewing. The synchronization feature allows sailors to readjust their timings to the closest minute at any time in the sequence.
February 15, 2012
Sperry Top-Sider’s “Son-R Technology™” Lets You See With Your Feet
Sperry Top-Sider® just announced updates to its new SON-R Technology, a patent-pending sensory feedback system engineered into a line of multi-water sport shoes. These shoes are specially designed to address the challenges water enthusiasts face when navigating across varied and unseen underfoot terrain. Whether on slippery rocks while portaging a canoe, or on the slick fibreglass of a boat, Sperry has engineered a complete collection of footwear that creates a safer and more enjoyable experience in, on and around the water.
February 10, 2012
Go Green While Getting A Six Pack!
There’s been lots of talk about electric boats recently, but few examples are actually out on the market. So far, the battery technology for large-scale applications seems to us to be a significant environmental consideration. I suspect that the carbon footprint of a big lithium-ion battery bank might totally negate the energy savings of the electric engine. Then, on September 28th 2011, a company called BionX introduced its own electric boat. There is some very interesting thinking behind it, but the size and scale is in the dinghy range, not the cruiser range.
February 7, 2012
New Floater Coat from Mustang
Mustang Survival, the well-known Vancouver-area manufacturer of quality safety gear, has introduced a new generation of its familiar floater coat. The Catalyst model is the latest combination of a waterproof yet breathable exterior with a segmented foam middle layer that provides flotation and an inner layer that allows breathability and aids in wicking moisture away from the wearer. Mustang calls this new design the M-Tech Comfort System and it makes for a more comfortable coat that still provides warmth and protection from rain, as well as flotation in an emergency.
January 10, 2012
BOATaid 24-7
BOATaid is a mobile and web based service available 24/7 across Ontario to help boaters obtain emergency assistance on the water and much more. The first ever service of its kind providing boaters with location based information they can rely on in an emergency to obtain towing, on site repairs, battery boost, or fuel delivery. The cost of these emergency services is covered by most boat insurance policies with no deductible. Until now it was not always easy for boaters to find qualified service providers in an emergency situation away from their home port.
October 26, 2011
Whale Pump
Whale electric products, including the universal freshwater electric pressure pumps, are designed to retrofit any existing pump location with flexible feet that absorb vibration and reduce noise.The Whale Gulpers for toilet and shower waste both boast a unique, virtually unblockable valve design and multi-directional head means that they can be mounted almost anywhere. The Whale Quick Connect plumbing system does not require collet clips and therefore is less expensive, easy and fast to install. The unique 'Double Gripper' and o ring seal combination prevents leaks.
October 26, 2011
Dickinson Round Sea-B-Que
The truly innovative Dickinson Round Sea-B-Que combines legendary quality, a tough round design and the rugged good looks that makes for an unbeatable marine grill. Built with 304 marine grade, 18 guage stainless steel, the round Sea-B-Que design allows for strength and resistes flame outs in high wind conditions. A list of accessories is available, including deck legs. Model 00-SBQ-R shown here measures 18" wide by 14.25" high and 16" deep. It weighs 20.5 lb., has a cooking surface of 14.375 diameter and offers 7,000 BTU.
October 26, 2011
Nova Kool R1600 Singe Door Fridge
The Nova Kool R1600 DC fridge has a capacity of 48 litres with the following features including a positive latch system; storage for tall bottles; shelves with powder coated wire for durability; reversible door swing; and a two-year manufacturers warranty on all components. This 12V unit offers low battery protection to help prevent full discharge of batteries. Its stainless steel unit uses environmentally sound 134a refrigerant and has been designed for mobile applications on grades up to 30°.
October 26, 2011
MARINE PRODUCT – Lewmar CPX Windlass
Lewmar identified the need for a high-quality product that is lighter than the all stainless steel deck unit. Subsequently, the CPX deck unit features an alloy base. With an emphasis on reliability, Lewmar has reduced the number of parts without compromising on performance, making the windlass easier to service. Lewmar strives to keep up to date with new developments in the motor/gearbox industry, constantly testing new products coming to market, and the CPX Windlass is no exception. The result is a highly reliable, light weight, high performance windlass.
October 26, 2011
Big Orange Holding Tank
The Big Orange holding tank vent filter is easily installed on the vent line of your holding tank and begins working immediately by filtering the air coming from your holding tank to remove the odour. In fact, the Big Orange holding tank vent filter uses the same activated carbon pellet technology that is used in industrial exhaust scrubbers to eliminate the odour coming from your holding tank. Big Orange boasts a large carbon pellet volume, more than any other vent line filter available on the market. It lasts longer and works better. Unlike "the other guys", the Big Orange holding tank vent filter uses an easily refillable cartridge so you don’t need to buy a new filter every year.
October 26, 2011
Raritan Atlantes Freedom ® Toilet
The Raritan Atlantes Freedom ® Toilet has powerful bronze cutting blades designed to "shred" most objects. It is now available in two bowl sizes: standard household and elongated. Enjoy the freedom from clogged toilets and marine size bowls. There are no fuses or relays inside the unit and timer module (A8 model only) can be removed and the toilet will still operate.
October 26, 2011
Isotherm Divino Wine Cellars
Isotherm offers its customers a great opportunity to have a wine cellar on board. This high-class equipment enables boat owners to keep great wine and champagne at the perfect temperature. Both 23 and 35 bottles wine cellars can be built into the dressers or columns of modular furniture with no alteration of furniture design. For a perfect integration, the profile of the door is totally lined up with the doors of the furniture.Both models feature double door locking systems to prevent unwanted door opening in rough sea conditions and specialracks designed for storing champagne bottles.
October 18, 2011
Mobile Devices Link You to Your Boat from Anywhere On The Planet
Over the past two years, we have featured a number of articles focusing on the functional and performance benefits available through the universal NMEA 2000 protocols developed to enable a wide range of devices to all communicate with each other using one language. Separate from that, there is now a rapidly growing interest in using mobile devices like smartphones and tablet computers in place of notebooks and desktop computers because they offer connectivity on the go using easily carried equipment. Also, the “cool factor” is very high!
October 17, 2011
Ventilating Sail Delivers Cool Breezes To Stuffy Cabins
Hot, stuffy cabins can lead to long, sleepless nights. Keeping sleeping quarters cool and comfortable is easy with the Windscoop Ventilating Sail from Davis Instruments. The attractive, lightweight sail is aerodynamically designed to direct even the slightest breeze below deck to where it's needed. For sailboats, the self-supporting Windscoop can be hung from a halyard, boom or roller furling sheet. On powerboats, owners build a simple frame from aluminum tubing and a stanchion base or floor flange for mounting.