There are many questions to ask when assessing a boat, whether as a journalist or a potential purchaser, but perhaps the most important question is how well it does what…
Boat test
Nordic Folkboat used boat review: One of the most iconic boats ever designed
It’s hardly surprising Richard Gregson owns a Nordic Folkboat, there was only ever one sort of boat he could reasonably buy the owner of the Wooden Ships brokerage firm in…
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 350 review: Striking the right balance
When it comes to building successful cruising yachts, there are few yards that can match the might and scale of Jeanneau. If the number of hulls sold is any measure…
Tradewind 33 used boat review: Ocean crossing credentials
In a fast-moving world, it’s good to slow down occasionally. Boats are getting lighter, keels deeper, and rigs taller, all in the pursuit of speed. All have a place, but…
Moody DS48 review: We sail this new yacht across the English Channel to see if she has what it takes
High topsides, muscular bow sections and a formidable deck house make the Moody DS48 an imposing sight, even standing alongside her on the pontoon. Point her bows towards the open…
Dufour 41 review: unashamedly aimed at coastal cruising
There have always been yachts that claim to offer the best of all worlds. They lure you in with the promise of being able to luxuriate in spacious opulence after…
Excess 11 review: A very rare sub-40ft cruising catamaran
Catamarans don’t belong in the UK, I hear you cry. If you’ve been put off by towering topsides, the vast beam and ideas about how much it might cost to…
Saffier SE33 Life review: Achingly pretty luxury daysailer
Nine! Nine point five! Ten! Eleven! Eleven point five!’ Watching the boat speed climb into double figures in the gusts was addictive; we were broad reaching back up the Needles…
Bavaria 30 Cruiser used boat review: Great little family cruising yacht
When you’re looking for a second-hand boat, it’s often easy to imagine that there’s a pretty broad choice in any given category. After spending a while thinking about your priorities…
Grand Soleil 42LC review: a serious boat for serious cruisers
Light winds may not make for the most exciting boat test images, especially when it’s chilly, the sky is grey and it’s threatening to rain, which was the weather we…