Wondering what to get the cruising sailor (or liveaboard) in your life this holiday season? Most of us boat folk are minimalists, which makes us notoriously difficult for gifting. There’s no room for excess on board!

We took a break from publishing a gift guide last year, sending it only to blog subscribers—which generated some email so we’re back, baby! We hope this guide with our handpicked recommendations helps relieve a little holiday stress. Remember, Amazon’s Black Friday begins early.

Disclosure: This post includes affiliate links. No cost to you, and super helpful for us. Learn more at our values statement; we only make recommendations that we support 100 percent. And if we know of a small business you can support instead, you’ll find that linked here, too. If we miss one, don’t hesitate to let us know!

Clever Cameras

Night vision security camera

Motion-activated cameras with sound and alarms. Notifications gave us peace of mind during travel for Annapolis and the low-light image capture was amazing. Bonus: microphone and speaker let you talk (to your cat, even) through the camera!

Thermal infrared camera

Troubleshoot a diesel engine or wiring issue by identifying hotspots with Flir’s One Gen 3 camera. (Also fun for cat pics!) Caveat: Our friend and surveyor Marga Pretorius points out that this model is not strong enough to see into laminates and detect moisture in the hull of a boat.

Insta360 GO 3S

Great cruising vlog features: Level the horizon (for that sunset time-lapse from the cockpit). IPX8 rating means you can take it snorkeling. Way easier to mount with magnetic attachments, and more! Leveling up POV video with this on Totem.

Low-light, weatherproof camera

Security and a nav aid. Spend $2k (or $20k) on a fancy-schmancy marine version, or about $60 for this copycat and use your MFD as the display.

Quality of Life

Nordic Icebreaker

Perfect cubes even if it’s tossed around the freezer. Our friend Susan says “We’ve gone through a lot of ice cube trays with lids but none have worked until this.” Count us in!

No Eggs, No Worries

Easy methods to substitute for eggs, plus a selection of classic egg recipes re-interpreted to be eggless. Why cruisers need this: It may not be possible to buy eggs in remote locations. The eggs you can buy might be bad (the last dozen eggs I got in the Marshall Islands were moldy inside the shell) and are probably costly. It’s at least a month before I may find eggs for sale. And why not be healthy and compassionate? You don’t need to be vegan to appreciate this cruiser-created cookbook.

Malizia sunglasses

By sailors, for sailors, perfect for this sailor! I was gifted a pair earlier this year, and they now live on my face whenever I’m outside. Polarization lets me see into the coral-strewn water here, optical clarity is #chef’s kiss, coverage is excellent (super sensitive eyes here), and grey tint is perfectly dark in the tropics. Bonus: The frame is 85 percent recycled fishing nets. The Vallon store has a pre-holiday 25% off sale, sitewide, until December 3.

Stick-on bifocals

Hydrotac means I can wear Malizias and read a book at the same time. Less than $20 for a pair, they adhere inside lenses with a drop of water. A second pair converted my snorkeling mask. Way easier and cheaper than prescription lenses.

Water Time!

Prescription mask

Vision more complicated than my stick-ons? SeaVision masks are made in St Petersburg, Florida, and get rave reviews. Built to last, they can adapt lenses to your fave mask, too.

Dive clacker

Needed this a few days ago to get Jamie’s attention underwater about a shark swimming nearby (because sharks are gorgeous, and I didn’t want him to miss it). This makes either a rattle (for snorkelers) or clang (divers tap on the tank). Thumbs up on this and the mask from the dive aficionados aboard SV Motu.

Go Green

UNPaper Towels

Washable, reusable replacements for paper towels, these do exactly what they are supposed to, plus they come in fun colors and prints. I haven’t used paper towels in over a year and don’t miss them a bit! We’re linking to the maker site, Marley’s Monsters, so you can peruse the other goodness they have.

Compressed air fan

Koonie makes another product better! “I got tired of looking for compressed air cans,” said our friend Travis. We’re tired, too: Ditch those refrigerant/propellant cans for good.

On-Board Toolkit

Mini soldering iron

The size of a pencil, this charges via USB. Fortuna crew connects it to a power bank for portability.

Universal funnel

May not sound sexy but it’s incredibly useful. Our workaround in the past has been a thin, flexible cutting board held in place. This is much better!

Digital electronic level

Make your installs look pro-level! This clever device from Klein Tools is a level, an angle finder, a relative angle reference. Its magnetic bottom keeps it in place.

Better cable stripper

Jonard’s wire stripper has an adjustable wire depth. Get it right the first time when stripping small-gauge (large-size) wires for, say, battery bank wiring. This and level (above) tips from the current refit underway on Atargatis.

What’s Jamie getting?

I’ve fallen in the habit of sharing Jamie’s gift in this annual post. This paragraph was mysteriously missing in the copy he proofreads for me. (No spoilers, friends!)

Endoscope camera

16-foot cable reaches into deep dark corners to inspect tanks, the hull behind your generator, and other inaccessible dark corners on board. LED lights at the camera, that connects with Wi-Fi to your smartphone. (I nearly spilled the beans recently for a project where he might have used it!)

Timeless Favorites

These gift ideas never go out of style:

Marmara towels

All Turkish towels are not created the same! We’ve used Marmara bath towels for nearly a decade. The standard size makes great hand or dish towels. Currently 25% off on their site (linked).

Bone conduction headphones retain ambient noise sounds while listening to that audiobook on night watch. SHOKZ became instant favorites on Totem.

Solar powered string lights

MPOWERD’s 44-foot length is great for casting a gentle glow in the cockpit.

AND… A discount on our services!

Gift your friend, a loved one or yourself an hourlong consultation with me and Jamie! We are offering a limited number of our “try-us-out” coaching sessions at 50% off. We can do a lot in an hour. Learn more about how we get people happily cruising here, then get in touch for a custom gift certificate—until they run out!

Still struggling for inspiration? Our guide collection and gift ideas (16 posts) can be found at this link.

The post Our Favorite Things: Holiday Gift Guide for the Hands-On Sailor appeared first on Cruising World.

The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference has announced 13 Innovation Award Winners and five honorable mentions in the 2024 IBEX Innovation Awards Program managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association and judged by Boating Writers International.

In the category of Boat Care and Maintenance, there were two winners. First is CMP Group Ltd. for its SMartyr SCP Anode. Judge Tim Murphy stated in a press release: “Nearly every boat needs to be protected from galvanic corrosion, but our typical metal sacrificial anodes add toxic metals to the water we boat in. The CMP SMartyr impressed-current cathodic protection solves this problem and satisfies the ABYC E-2 power requirement with a self-contained lithium battery charged by solar cells. The unit senses hull potential, self regulates and indicates proper functioning with LED lights. It’s a clean solution at a similar price to of sacrificial anodes.

The second winner in the Boat Care and Maintenance category is Arthur Edison, LLC, for CLiX. According to judge Pim Van Hemmen: “It’s always fun to see someone cook up a really clever, simple, inexpensive solution to a problem that has vexed boaters ever since the onboard fuel tank was invented. The CLiX fuel spill prevention product is simply brilliant and revolutionary.”

In the category of Boatbuilding Methods and Materials, the winner was Supersede, for the Supersede Marine Board. According to judge Charles Doane: “This inventive product, designed to replace marine plywood in boatbuilding and other applications, hits a lot of buttons. Fabricated from recycled plastic, it is itself recyclable. It is rot-proof, price competitive, weighs the same, and is more versatile. An important step forward.”

An honorable mention in the category of Boatbuilding Methods and Materials went to Chomarat North America for the G-FLOW 980L Structural Glass Flow Media.

In the category of Deck Equipment and Hardware, the winner is Commercial Sewing for its Outer Armor Self-Booting Power Bimini. Judge Brady Kay said: “The Self-Booting Bimini is the next evolution in power tops with a truly innovative design where the canvas top retracts automatically into an integrated boot box with a simple push of a button. Say goodbye to zipper Bimini boot struggles.”

An honorable mention in the category of Deck Equipment and Hardware went to Gemlux for the Paddle Latch.

In the category of Electrical Systems, the winner is Egis Mobile Electric for the XD Series Flex N2K Remote High Amp Relay. Murphy said: “From simple center consoles to complex cruising yachts, the Egis XD Series remote relay offers an elegant priceworthy solution to delivering power throughout the boat. The relay’s modular design, together with NMEA 2000 monitoring and control, promises to significantly reduce long heavy wire runs, and does so with comforting analog redundancy.”

In the category of Furnishings, and Interior Parts, the winner is Quality Mark, Inc. for the XPower Seat. Kay said: “As boats continue to trend towards automotive-like comfort, the XPower Seat with memory settings and 4 inches of movement in all directions takes marine seating to new heights. The electric seat base is integrated to move on the post for a sleeker and more efficient solution to marine seating.”

An honorable mention in the category of Furnishings, and Interior Parts went to SeaDek for the Magnetic SeaDek.

In the category of Mechanical Systems, there are two winners: Phiber Systems and OhNoH20.

About Phiber Systems, judge Theresa Nicholson says: “After four years of development, Phiber’s pressurized, hydro injection for brine evacuation and remediation is the first product to streamline the flushing process and to have universal application. Phiber makes freshwater flushing maintenance an intrinsic function for any system that uses raw water for cooling, at the touch of a button.”

On the WIF-Pro WIF-Shield by OhNoH20, Doane says: “This clever but simple product takes a critical and ubiquitous bit of kit, the Racor fuel filter, and helps it work even better. The easily removed heat shield bowl enhances key features—the ability to detect water in fuel and easily drain off contaminants—and improves functionality.”

In the category of OEM Electronics, the winner is Tocaro Blue for its Proteus Hub. Nicholson says: “Tocaro Blue Proteus distills radar information to bring an easy awareness of waters around the boat. Proteus helps the user digest and understand information from their boat’s Radar, sonar, and AIS systems.”

An honorable mention in the category of OEM Electronics went to Syntec Industries for its Gussi Italia PowerHub 2.0.

In the category of Outboard Engines, the winner is Honda Marine for the Honda BF350 V-8. Kay says: “With Honda’s first production V-8 engine, their high-power outboard integrates innovative highlights including a fully balanced 60 degree offset crankshaft that eliminates the need for a harmonic balancer along with key exclusive features found in Honda’s DNA. The development of the BF350 enhances its existing lineup and takes Honda power to the next level.”

In the category of Propulsion Parts, Propellers, the winner is Navico Group for the Lenco Pro Control. Judge Richard Armstrong said: “The Lenco Pro Control auto-leveling system leverages existing plane mounting points … and counteracts dynamic running conditions to improve stability, reduce pitch and re-entry impact. This cost-effective system is a snap to install and configure.”

An honorable mention in the category of Propulsion Parts, Propellers went to Mercury Marine for the Mercury Precision Joystick

In the category of Safety Equipment, the winner is Banshee Marine Audio for the Banshee VA1. Armstrong noted: “The Banshee VA1 isn’t the first VHF radio extension speaker, but it’s the clearest and loudest with a 10-watt integrated amplifier and DSP to filter out background noise and emphasize the human voice. The versatile mounting options make it easy to fit on any boat.”

In the category of Trailers, Parts and Trailer Accessories, the winner is Quality Mark, Inc., for the Bow Step G2. “As someone who’s spent the past decade clambering onto his trailered boat by using the trailer head and the spare tire to get over the bow cleat without hurting himself, the G2 bow step is a welcome innovation,” Van Hemmen said. “It’s a smart, well-engineered product that makes getting into a trailered boat so much easier.

The post Winners Announced for IBEX Innovation Awards appeared first on Cruising World.

The Mustang Survival M.I.T. 100 is a trusted choice for safety on the water, and now, with a Buy One, Get One Free deal, it’s the perfect time to upgrade your gear. Designed for reliability and comfort, this PFD is a must-have for boaters, anglers, and sailors.

Pros:

Automatic and Manual Inflation: Automatically inflates upon water immersion and can also be manually activated by pulling the handle, ensuring reliable performance.

Enhanced Comfort: Large arm cutouts ensure full mobility, while the adjustable waist belt accommodates various body sizes and outerwear for a customized fit..

High Buoyancy: Delivers 28 lbs / 125 N of buoyancy when inflated, offering 1.5 times the buoyancy of traditional foam PFDs.

Cons:

Requires Maintenance: As with any inflatable PFD, you’ll need to periodically check and re-arm the CO2 cartridge.

For liveaboard sailors seeking reliable and high-speed internet connectivity while cruising the open seas, the Starlink Actuated High-Performance Kit is an indispensable addition to your onboard equipment. Designed specifically for marine environments, this kit offers the technology you need to stay connected with family, friends, and work while enjoying life at sea.

Pros:

Unmatched Connectivity: With Starlink’s satellite technology, you’ll experience internet speeds that rival those of traditional broadband, even in remote locations.

Durable and Marine-Ready: Built to withstand the rigors of marine life, the Starlink hardware is rugged and weather-resistant, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging conditions.

Easy Installation: The kit is designed for quick and straightforward installation, making it easy to set up on your vessel.

Cons:

Subscription Costs: While the initial setup is straightforward, keep in mind that ongoing subscription fees apply for the service.

The Sperry Men’s Billfish 3-Eye Boat Shoe is the perfect blend of classic style and modern functionality, making it a great choice for both boating activities and casual wear. Crafted from premium leather, these shoes offer exceptional durability and a timeless look that pairs well with any outfit.

Pros:

Great Traction: The Sperry men’s Billfish shoe comes fully equipped with Wave-Siping on the rubber outsole to provide stability on wet and dry surfaces.

Cool and Comfortable: Air mesh upper panels and a shock absorbing EVA heel cup provide breathability and added comfort for long days on your feet.

Cons:

Narrow: Some buyers report that the shoes run narrow but Sperry does offer wide and extra wide options for some sizes.

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I was at Sheppard’s marina in Gibraltar as a blustery easterly levanter sent strong gusts swirling around the rock and the docks.

A powerboat was trying to tie up. At the bow, a woman was ready to heave a line to the dockhand, but the skipper was having great difficulty with the wind blowing the boat off the dock again and again. Tempers were clearly at a height when she finally heaved the line successfully to the dockhand, who made it fast to a cleat—but as the boat fell away again, the line slipped out of the fairlead and fell into the water. Evidently, it had not been secured to the boat.

There was yelling. After the boat was finally secured, the woman stormed down the dock. I never did see her come back.

Years later at a boat show in Annapolis, Maryland, I was intrigued by advertising for “the marriage saver.” Cruising Solutions was selling wireless headphones that let two or more people talk in normal tones. The kit had microphones and earpieces like you see pilots wearing, including a battery charger and spare ear foam, all in a stowage box.

The main feature that distinguishes these headsets from, say, handheld VHF radios or walkie-talkies is the two-way simultaneous conversation. The headsets feel almost like talking on a telephone, with what is technically called duplex transmission. And, the headsets are hands-free. I grabbed a set at the reduced show price to use on my 52-foot schooner Britannia.

These headphones are worn with an arch around the back of the head, not atop the head. The lightweight earphones hook over the top of the ears. It’s all quite comfortable, and the microphone sits close to the mouth. The headphones won’t fall off when you bend down, or even during upside-down contortions in an engine room. My wife, Kati, also likes the way they fit under her hair and can hardly be seen. They also don’t impede hearing aids or sunglasses, and you can wear any sort of headgear with them.

The internal lithium batteries can be charged with USB cables or a laptop with a USB plug. After a 90-minute charge session, there’s an eight-hour continuous talk time with a range of 800 feet. The warranty is two years.

Switching the headsets on is easy, by pressing two buttons. Kati and I were able to chat in normal tones in separate rooms in our house, and with one of us upstairs. They also deadened the sound of my noisy lawnmower.

Volume is adjusted on the earpiece control, and sound comes out of both earpieces, so the most extraneous noises are subdued. You can also listen to music via Bluetooth. When someone speaks, the voice overrides the music.

Four people can be joined into a conversation, and they can all hear one another speaking, but nobody else with a similar device on another boat can tune in. For larger crew, Cruising Solutions has another product that brings an infinite number of people into the loop. That system also allows the lead person to control who can listen, as needed.

A problem I always had when picking up mooring buoys was lining up my schooner so my wife could hook the tether line. It is 40 feet from the helm to the bow, and two masts and booms impede the use of hand signals. I also had to roll up the isinglass to hear information that she shouted from the foredeck. Not anymore: Every time we succeed without hassle, we say that 2Talk is marvelous and that we should’ve bought this amazing helper years ago.

Another situation where this system comes in handy is whenever we anchor. I go forward to prepare the 65-pound CQR while Kati is at the wheel. I used to shout to ask the depth, and Kati would yell the reading from the depth gauge. Now, the depth comes in quietly through the earphones. I can ask her to ease the boat slowly astern as I let out more chain and finally snub the anchor in, and then ask her to disengage the engine. To onlookers, it must seem as if we are an amazingly synchronized professional team. Or, perhaps, telepathic.

Another benefit became clear the first time I went up Britannia’s 57-foot mainmast with the headset on. Communicating with the people on deck had always been difficult, especially if there was a breeze and I needed to shout. On occasion, I was left swinging in the air while Kati went to find a wrench or drill. Now, I can help her locate it or an alternative tool, all from a distance.

I don’t know if these headphones would’ve saved the couple in Gibraltar, but this tech is some of the best $320 I have spent on boating in a long time.

The post Gear Test: Cruising Solutions’ Wireless Headphones appeared first on Cruising World.

Mustang Survival, whose gear ranges from PFDs to waterproof clothes, has introduced the Quadra Dry Suit.

The Quadra Dry Suit is a multipurpose item for shorter-duration activities in the water. It comes in men’s and women’s versions, and is made with the same three-layer Marine Spec BP fabric that Mustang Survival uses in its other dry suits.

Mustang Survival says the design is inspired by gear the company has created for military and public safety agencies, with similar testing for durability and features.

Also according to Mustang Survival, the Quadra Dry Suit is intended to hold up in saltwater environments. It has trimmable latex neck and wrist seals for the best fit, along with a collar and cuffs that can be repaired or replaced without a hassle. The waist belt is also adjustable to accommodate various body types. Heavy-duty reinforcements include 500D Cordura panels on the seat and knees.

For drying the suit on board, there’s an external hanging loop. Getting in and out of the suit is by way of a waterproof YKK Aquaseal zipper.

“Dry suits often come with a hefty price tag, and understandably so as a lot of engineering and materials go into a specialized garment that keeps you completely dry,” Anja Mueller, head of marketing at Mustang Survival, stated in a press release. “With the Quadra, we offer people new to cold water marine activities the same quality materials at a budget-friendlier price.”

What’s the pricing for the Quadra Dry Suit? Retail price is $849.99. The men’s version comes in ocean blue/admiral gray as well as red/admiral gray. The women’s version comes in bluefin blue/admiral gray.

Where to learn more: Click over to www.mustangsurvival.com.

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Marine technology manufacturer DAVCO has announced the launch of its new AquaChocks removable and adjustable chock system.

The Gold Coast, Australia-based company’s new AquaChocks product provides stability of a secure cradle system for storage of tenders and personal watercraft (PWC) while underway, giving boaters peace of mind while out on the water.

Synthetic grip pads keep the tender in place without causing damage to the hull. When not in use, AquaChocks can be completely removed to leave a true flush deck surface and eliminate trip hazards. The chock is designed to fit a wide variety of tenders and PWCs, while the adjustable design ensures a snug fit to keep all sizes and shapes of watercraft secure.

Built with 316 stainless steel, AquaChocks is designed to survive the harsh maritime environment with long-lasting durability and a mirror finish that shines.

“We know that no matter the size of your vessel, deck space is at a premium,” said DAVCO CEO George Geros. “The innovation behind the AquaChock system is that it is a secure system for stowing your watercraft, adjustable to be perfectly tailored to each vessel and removable allowing users to reclaim valuable deck space when not in use. We believe that this system will change the way you use and stow your dinghy.”

AquaChocks are available in two kits to offer versatility. The AquaChocks Foredeck kit is designed for installation in the forward deck and includes chock mounting brackets for stability without the need of drilling deep into the deck.

The rear AquaChocks kit features a vertical support to keep the tender or PWC secure when facing forward. Swim platforms provide easy launching and access to a tender or PWC.

The release notes that both kits have been designed to ensure maximum stability and safety of a tender when stored. For more flexibility, the chocks can be removed from the bases, allowing boaters to enjoy the swim platform area when the tender is in the water.

AquaChocks come in a tough case which includes everything to safely store a tender of PWC, including hardware, tie down straps and more. The case acts as storage on board when the chocks are removed, allowing owners to keep all the equipment in one place.

The AquaChocks start at $1,749 and can be installed professionally at the boatyard or by savvy do-it-yourselfers. The kit comes with a QR code with detailed installation videos. AquaChocks are also fully customizable for a variety of uses.

The post AquaChocks: Secure Tender Storage, Simplified appeared first on Cruising World.

Vallon, which specializes in sports eyewear, has announced a partnership with professional skipper Boris Herrmann and Team Malizia to create sustainable sunglasses called Malizia.

Designed by sailors, for sailors, the Malizia’s frames are made from 85 percent recycled fishing nets. Vallon has pledged that for every pair of Malizia sunglasses that are sold, 10 mangrove seedlings will be planted in the Malizia Mangrove Park in the Philippines.

Malizia Mangrove Park recently surpassed 1 million mangroves as part of an effort to restore the local ecosystem. An intact mangrove belt not only provides breeding areas for fish, but also food for birds and reptiles, fish and crabs. At the same time, a mangrove belt protects the coral reefs and the shore from erosion, and it helps to bind large quantities of carbon dioxide so it can’t escape into the atmosphere. Healthy mangroves also reduce strong storm tide waves that can cause damage ashore.

Hermann is the patron of Malizia Mangrove Park, and works with the Mama Earth Foundation on the reforestation effort. Mama Earth grows seedlings in its nurseries and then helps with the planting activities with support from the Philippine Department of Environmental Protection. So far, the results have included not just the environmental benefits, but also a better source of income for local residents.

Vallon had a previous relationship with Herrmann, having created sailing sunglasses for use during the Vendée Globe challenge. Since then, the partnership has evolved, including with the release of the Malizia glasses.

Malizia is a unisex design with Vallon’s V52 polarized lenses. The recycled material in the frames is fused into a durable material called nylon 6 that is 20 percent lighter than equivalent polycarbonate or some other materials. The material also is known for good impact resistance.

“Sustainable comfort for those moments on the water when you need it most,” says Cruising World’s editor-in-chief Andrew Parkinson, who recently tested a pair of Malizia shades on a day of rigorous sea trials off the Fort Lauderdale coast. “When you’re laser-focused on putting a boat through its paces in the choppy Gulf Stream, the last thing on your mind should be having to constantly adjust your sunglasses or not being able to see the puffs sufficiently. That these glasses are also made from recycled material and that the sale of each pair helps give back to the environment felt like a win-win for me.”      

These sunglasses are lightweight, at 32 grams, and they have an ABBE value of 52, which means exceptional optical clarity. UV A/B protection is 100 percent. The frames are matte black, and the lenses have a gray tint with anti-scratch and hydro-oleophobic coatings to resist damage and water buildup.

To help with all-day comfort out on the water, there’s a Base-8 wraparound curve in the design for peripheral protection, as well as a soft rubber nose pad.

Each pair of Malizia sunglasses is delivered plastic-free with a clip-on hook and belt straps, along with a protective case.

The sunglasses, which have a suggested retail price of about $155, come with a Vallon lifetime warranty.

Where to learn more: Visit vallon.com.

The post Pro-Grade Sailing Eyewear appeared first on Cruising World.

PredictWind, the New Zealand-based company known for providing sailors with weather data, has introduced the PredictCurrent App.

The PredictCurrent App has a quick-view dashboard where sailors can see wind, current, waves and tide height data in one place. Animated maps provide extensive detail on tidal currents, setting what the company calls a new standard in tidal current modeling.

PredictCurrent’s tidal current maps cover 90 percent of the world’s coastlines, according to the company.

“The launch of the PredictCurrent App marks a pivotal moment in marine navigation technology,” Jon Bilger, CEO of PredictWind, stated in a press release. “Our dedicated team has spared no effort in providing mariners worldwide with unparalleled access to comprehensive current data, fostering safer navigation and informed decision-making on the seas. We’re thrilled to be at the forefront of enhancing maritime safety and empowering users with unprecedented insights.”

The app is supported by ultra-high-resolution models that cover areas characterized by complex bathymetry and high tidal flows. This provides accuracy at 100-meter (328-foot) resolution. Supported by a 400-meter (1,312-foot) resolution within 90 kilometers (55 miles) of the coast and a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) resolution extending up to 600 kilometers (372 miles) offshore, users can see tidal flows anywhere in the world.

Backed by PredictWind forecasts, the app also provides marine weather forecasts in a table format, including weather warnings, tidal current flows, tide times and atmospheric parameters. Users also can access tidal currents, sea temperature maps, wind and wave displays.

Does PredictCurrent also let sailors see ocean temperatures? Yes, in color-coded zones.

Where to learn more: visit www.predictcurrent.com

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Musto has unveiled its MPX Impact Gore-Tex Pro sailing jacket and trousers, which are made with D3O pads in the elbows, hips and knees—a technology reportedly used by US Special Forces and Formula 1 racing to help prevent impact injury, cuts and abrasions.

Offshore racers are the target market for this line, which prints the pads onto mesh that is then bonded onto the fabric. The technology allows for a low-profile, lightweight, flexible pad that is waterproof without lessening the fabric’s breathable properties.

“D3O absorbs and dissipates the energy from impacts, reducing the amount of force that gets transmitted to your body compared to standard forms,” Mostyn Thomas, D3O global brand director, stated in a press release. “Each one of the broad range of D3O technologies is tailored to solve a specific problem or need in sport, motorcycle, electronics, defense and industrial workwear. We are delighted to have worked with Musto on designing MPX Impact, especially as we know offshore sailors can be dealing with some of the most brutal and hostile conditions on the planet.”

Armel Le Cléac’h, the French captain, navigator and solo, nonstop around-the-world racer, played a key role in the product’s design. “We go from 20 to 40 knots in just a few seconds. Accelerating this quickly and at these speeds means you are often thrown around on the boat, and that’s why impact protection is so important,” Le Cléac’h stated in the press release.

“Developing MPX Impact with Musto has enabled me to try and test various solutions in real ocean conditions, and we’ve worked together to design what I believe to be the ultimate offshore impact kit. It’s the first of its kind.”

Will Harris, co-skipper of IMOCA Team Malizia, tested the MPX Impact jacket and trousers on The Ocean Race and the Transat Jacques Vabre. He said: “With high-speed reaching in modern yachts, the slams and forces you have to deal with are multiplied, and protection all over the body is important. The jacket has all the features I need to be able to quickly jump on the deck during a maneuver while feeling protected from both the elements and the boat itself. The number of bruises I come back with afterwards being drastically reduced.”

The jacket has other cool features too: There’s an easy-access waterproof phone pouch with a touch-sensitive window on the forearm. Laser-cut pocket drainage prevents pooling. YKK Vislon AquaGuard zippers provide rain and windproof closures. Chest and hand pockets are trimmed with reflective details for higher visibility in darker conditions. The hood can pack away into the collar, and there is a hanging loop for stowage.

Where to learn more: go to www.musto.com.

The post Musto’s MPX Impact is Made for Offshore appeared first on Cruising World.

Awlgrip has introduced a 3D Color Visualizer on its website to help boaters and applicators find the perfect color for their boat.

The tool allows instant access to tens of thousands of colors from the Awlgrip color database. Users can select a vessel type—sailboat, sportfish, cruising powerboat or superyacht—and try out color options for the hull sides, deck, cabin and boot stripe. They also can include fouling control for their region. Once there’s a good match in the virtual environment, users can download their scheme to discuss with a retailer or client.

Unlike traditional “flat” panels, users can manipulate the virtual boat to view colors from different angles, providing a lifelike impression of how complex curves and angles will appear, according to Awlgrip’s team.

“We are truly excited to better assist our boaters and applicators in simplifying their journey towards finding the perfect color and Awlgrip topcoat for their boats,” Jemma Lampkin, commercial director of parent company AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings, stated in a press release. “Our customers want to find the right color to make the boat look its best on the water. That’s why we’ve developed this industry-first solution to inspire them to make that choice of painting their boats easier.”

Is this tool a substitute for working with an Awlgrip applicator? No. It’s intended to give boaters a realistic representation as a first step in the shopping process.

Give it a try to see how it works: go to www.awlgrip.com.

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