Seasickness

Seasickness is a condition caused by the confusion between different parts of the balance mechanism in the body. It occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the inner ear’s vestibular system, which senses motion and gravity, and other sensory inputs like vision. This sensory mismatch leads to symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue3. Seasickness is a common issue for individuals on boats due to the conflicting signals received by the brain when the body registers motion but the eyes perceive stability.

Speed, Strong, Flotation = Safety

Speed is Safety “Unfortunately, the speed range for typical displacement boats between 20 and 50 feet is only five to 10 knots- not nearly enough for many recreational roles. True, slow moving, full displacement vessels are reasonably efficient at carrying heavy loads because buoyancy forces sustain the weight for free, and only modest engine power…

Republic of Kiribati

I have been asked many times for proof that the Murrelet can be considered ocean worthy. Until November of 2001, I was unaware that proof (outside of the mathematical ratios) existed. Because the uninitiated do not consider a trip across the English Channel, which is done by Mac26x boats, or a trip from Key West to…

MARINE NAVIGATION

100. The Art And Science Of Navigation Marine navigation blends both science and art. A good navigator constantly thinks strategically, operationally, and tactically. He plans each voyage carefully. As it proceeds, he gathers navigational information from a variety of sources, evaluates this information, and determines his ship’s position. He then compares that position with his voyage plan, his operational commitments,…

Murrelet racing at Hope Island.

PHRF Racing

Murrelet’s potential as a racer was recognized shortly after her launch in 1999. The manufacturer even oriented its promotional literature around this potential. But racing organizations were reluctant to allow unballasted operation and it really wasn’t until 5000 hulls were launched that serious racers began to take notice of the one-design racing potential. In addition,…

America's Cup Section.

Remembering Hobie Alter, consulant to Coleman

We honor Hobie Alter who passed away on March 29th 2014 in simple ways. On my sailboat it is with a Coleman ice box. The only finished compartment on the MacGregor 26x sailboats is the place the manufacturer intended for that box, which stores a factory supplied Coleman ice chest.   Boards (Foils) Cats Many boaters…

Archives

Comfort and Water Ballast

It was pretty galling to watch the water-ballasted boats taking the conditions very much in their stride – and with significantly more comfort for their crews.  The Cascails fleet exhibited a good representation of current offshore design, and it was interesting to see how they fared. Sitting on the weather rail of a Corel 45…