What a line: “Raft up to me?” It was the saltiest pickup line Rebecca had ever heard. And soon the yellow Angel was indeed rafted up to the larger light blue Defiant, at left above, while their sailors learned how much they had in common. Rebecca Burg is still wondering how she got to be so lucky to be cruising side-by-side with Bill Robinson. They continue to operate their own boats as singlehanders, but they enjoy the company and extra security. Bill even offers an unexpected sort of “support,” above.

Two sailors, two sailboats, one adventure Issue 51 : Nov/Dec 2006 “I’m not going to leave you!” Bill Robinson radioed. Far ahead, Bill and his ketch, Defiant, turned and raced toward me. Hurricane Isa...

Diagram of a shower system

Simple solar-heated system is gravity-fed Issue 57 : Nov/Dec 2007 It’s known as the “Shower Dilemma.” Most pocket cruisers and older boats are not equipped with the luxury of a hot, freshw...

Rebecca Burg took the hands-on approach when matching a new prop to her boat’s new engine.

To avoid engine troubles, fit the right propeller Issue 65 : Mar/Apr 2009 The shark meandered toward my right foot. It was so close I could see brown spots on its nose. Loaded with tools and dive gear...