Aviation Rescue Boats
A comprehensive overview of the development, use, and evolution of AVRs, highlighting key manufacturers, design changes, and the training of crews for these vital rescue vessels.
Titanic
The sinking of the Titanic continues to captivate people more than 100 years after the tragedy due to several factors. The ship’s discovery in 1985, the release of James Cameron’s blockbuster film in 1997, and the 100th anniversary of the sinking in 2012 have all contributed to a resurgence of interest in the Titanic. So…
Amtrak Coast Starlight
The train is a journey, a romantic way to travel. To see the West Coast, and all its beauty unravel. The train is a memory, that should be experienced once. Even if you live at home, and don’t have to take the chance. The train stops at universities, where students can board. And travel home for the break, with memories to be stored.
Tacoma, Washington USA
Tacoma, oh Tacoma, a city of joy, Where happiness reigns, and sorrows deploy. A place where the people are filled with glee, And the beauty of life is easy to see. Lydia K. Valentine, the poet laureate, Says Tacoma is her town, and it’s great. The readers of the Tribune agree, Tacoma is the happiest city, you see.
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz, a place of history and lore, A place where the past lives forevermore, A fortress by the sea, a prison for the worst, A place where the weak perish and the strong thirst. Alcatraz, a place of history and lore, A place where the past lives forevermore. Pelicans soaring high, a symbol of hope, A place where the future and the past elope.
Groupe Beneteau
In the heart of Belltown, where the city meets the sea, Groupe Beneteau’s vessels, as majestic as can be. On the water they glide, with grace and with pride, A sight to behold, on the incoming tide.
Troubleshooting and Fixing Water Discharge Issues in Nissan 50 Four-Stroke Outboard Motors
Peeing The absence of water discharge or “peeing” from your Nissan 50 four-stroke outboard is a warning sign that requires immediate attention. This tell-tale water stream serves as a visual indicator that your engine’s cooling system is functioning properly. When this stream is weak or absent, it signals potential cooling problems that could lead to…
Bayesian Capsize
insights into the design and safety considerations of modern yachts, exemplified by the superyacht Bayesian. highlights how traditional sailing technologies, such as masts and keels, continue to influence contemporary yacht design. The discussion includes Bayesian’s specifications, stability measures like the Angle of Vanishing Stability, and features like the dinghy garage, which may impact flooding risks. Such details are crucial for boat designers focused on integrating historical sailing principles with modern innovations to enhance performance, safety, and luxury in yacht construction. This blend of old and new technologies is essential for advancing yacht design in today’s market.
Most Beautiful Yacht
This photo essay discusses Anthem, a 70-foot ketch built in 1998 by Roger MacGregor. Anthem combines luxury and performance with hand-laid fiberglass construction, a 70-foot mainmast, and speeds of up to 25 knots. It was named one of the seven most beautiful boats ever built alongside vessels like J-Class yachts. A sister ship to Anthem was built in the last decade, continuing its legacy as a masterpiece of yacht design. Photos of the sister ship are provided.
Als explored is the development of Ultra Light Displacement Boats (ULDBs) and their competition with MacGregor Yachts, highlighting key differences in design, construction, and performance. ULDBs, pioneered by designers like Bill Lee, George Olson, and Ron Moore in Santa Cruz, focused on lightweight construction (vacuum-bagged fiberglass with balsa cores) and exceptional downwind speed. Iconic ULDBs like Merlin and the Olson 30 dominated offshore racing with innovative designs.
PHRF Courses and Sailboat Design
Performance Handicap Racing Fleet (PHRF) race courses have transitioned from traditional Olympic triangular patterns to windward-leeward designs, emphasizing tactical skills, boat speed, and positioning. Random Leg courses, which offer varied angles and conditions, provide more balanced competition for different boat types.
Naval architecture has evolved to optimize boats for specific conditions, creating designs specialized for particular race formats, often favoring performance over versatility. Cruiser-racers and traditional cruising designs may struggle to compete on modern windward-leeward courses, prompting new classifications.