Boat Test: Island Packet 42 Motor Sailer
Island Packet Yachts is building toward a nearly 50-year legacy. Founded by naval architect Bob Johnson in 1979 and growing to notoriety as one of the prominent American sailboat builders, Island Packet has ushered in a new…
Editor’s Letter: 2026, A ‘Let’s Do It’ Year
Who doesn’t love the fresh start of a new year? Boat folk certainly do, and I always join the chorus. Winter may persist for months to come, but the days are already getting longer, and there’s no better time to make plans.…
Boat Test: Hanse 460
I love a boat test, whether older designs or brand new. This month, I had the chance to get out on one of the freshest offerings, the Hanse 460. Though the design made its debut elsewhere as early as 2022, I had the good…
Editor’s Letter: Luddite Alert…Simple Boats are Still the Best (For Me)
Every boater knows the moment when a piece of gear doesn’t quite work as expected—the engine that dies, the sail that rips, the light that goes out, the block that blows up, or the line that parts. There may be some rolling…
Editor’s Letter: Through Three-Year-Old Eyes
I am fortunate to be connected with the full array of ways to approach boat life, and am moved and humbled by the whole wonderful lot. I particularly admire those doing versions of family life afloat far more ambitiously…
“Joe, I’m buying a boat! Am…48° North Goes East: Annapolis Sailboat Show
What a fun and invigorating boat show experience. Such an array of new boat designs, so much sailing positivity, and a surprising amount of PNW presence. The Annapolis Sailboat Show's reputation precedes it. I've been…
Editor’s Letter: I Love When a Community Comes Together
My kiddos are now ages 3 and 1. During this kid-centric season of life, I find special value in the seemingly-rare opportunities to top up my boat-love tanks. A month ago, I got to do that with a week of summertime cruising…
I Want To Go To Maritime High School
Washington State Ferries and Maritime High School work together for the unique Classroom on the Water program. Any experienced mariner will tell you, each time you step aboard a boat there’s a learning opportunity—Northwest…
Splendid Summer: 48° North Cruising Rally 2025
There are as many ways to go cruising as there are boats, destinations, and people interested in waterborne travel. No one thing, no approach or region, no dynamic or itinerary, no ethos or adventure will suit everyone. On…