Alan Sorum's Blog

Posted by Alan Sorum

Wild Oats XI, a 98-foot super-maxi yacht owned by Bob Oatley, took line honors in the 2007 edition of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race with Mark Richards at the helm. Wild Oats XI crossed the finish mark at 1024 local time in Hobart on 28 December 2007 making this the third win in a row for Oatley and his yacht. Elapsed time over the course was 1 day, 21 hours, and 24 minutes making the finish only three hours off the record time recorded by the Wild Oats XI in 2005. Mark Richards has skipped the yacht in all three victories. The last yacht to finish first three years in a row at Hobart was Morna owned by Claude Plowman in 1946 through 1948. The winning elapsed race time in 1948 was 4 days 5 hours and 1 minute in comparison.

The second place vessel was City Index Leopard, skippered by Mike Slade, which finished 27 minutes after Wild Oats XI's finish. City Index Leopard came within four miles of the Wild Oats XI, the pre-race favorite at the finish. Competitors reached speeds of 22 knots during the early hours of the race. Light winds experienced later in Bass Strait kept the yachts off a potential record pace.

Posted by Alan Sorum

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chairman Mark V. Rosenker spoke with members of the Marine Retailers Association of America (MRAA) at their annual conference held in Las Vegas this week concerning changes by the marine industry and state governments to improve boating safety. Rosenker's message is that progress is being made to improve boating safety, but much more work is required reduce boating fatalities and accidents.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) - The focus of the Chairman's remarks was on improving the use of PFDs. The use of personal flotation devices has long been a priority of the NTSB and that mandatory wear of PFDs by children is a must. All of the state should undertake efforts to increase and enhance the use of lifejackets.

NTSB 2008 Most Wanted Safety Improvements List - State recreational boating safety was retained on the NTSB's 2008 Most Wanted Safety Improvements List. Specific recommendations to the states include lifejacket wear by children, boating safety education and operator licensing. Improvements in PFD wear can be tied to better boating safety education and Rosenker stressed the Agency's goal of encouraging new boating safety initiatives in six states, California, Maine, Massachusetts, Utah, North Carolina and Minnesota.

Speaking to the MRAA members, Rosenker recognized their support of boating safety, "For more than two and one half decades the National Transportation Safety Board has been pleased to work with the MRAA in advancing recreational boating safety on our Nation's waterways." He later encouraged the audience to "further improve boating safety for the rest of 2007 and into the new year 2008, so that we together can further reduce recreational boating fatalities, injuries, and accidents."

Chairman Rosenker's speech may be read at the NTSB website.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The Virginia Clean Marina Program managed by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program, part of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, has a new home on the web. This new website provides both marina operators and boaters with the most current and appropriate information available on operating marine facilities and vessels responsibility. Clean boating and control of marine debris are increasingly important concerns for boaters.

Links are provided to a number of regulatory and clean boating sites of interest to responsible operators.

Complete information is provided for marina operators interested in becoming certified as clean marinas under the Virginia program. The site does a good job of demonstrating the benefits of operating a clean marina and is a great resource for other states interested in adopting a similar program.

Marinas that participate in the Virginia Clean Marina Program are given recognition at the new website and users are provided with directions on how to locate a participating facility. Downloads are available to boaters on the best practices for dealing with sewage, petroleum, solid wastes, and vessel sewage.

Visit the Virginia Clean Marina Program site for further details.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The NOAA National Marine Sanctuary Program offers divers a unique opportunity to directly observe diverse marine ecosystems found throughout the United States. Ten of the thirteen national sites are considered by NOAA to be diver friendly and the Agency has recently released a printed diving guide and website meant to introduce divers to these opportunities.

NOAA offers tips on how to be a smart diver. Mastering buoyancy control, streamlining equipment, remaining below the canopy of kelp forests, respecting marine mammals and removing marine debris are offered as smart diving hints.

In a recent press release, Sanctuary Program Director Daniel Basta stated, “NOAA’s national marine sanctuaries have something to offer every diver, from the most experienced to the newly certified. We hope that all divers visiting our sanctuaries will want to join efforts to help preserve and protect these special places for future generations.”

Visit the NOAA Sanctuary Program website for more information and links to download the new sanctuary diving guide.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The U.S. Coast Guard has taken the steps necessary to reestablish the time honored storm warning flag system at their station It was discontinued for budgetary causes by the service in 1989. Mariners have historically depended on warning flags displayed at their harbors and Coast Guard Stations to warn of approaching ocean storm systems. Flag shapes warn of small boat advisories, gales, storms and hurricanes as described by the Beaufort Wind Force Scale. Upon seeing a warning flag displayed, mariners know to listen in on the National Weather Service broadcast for their region.

Coast Guard Chief of Public Affairs, says “Storm flags are a nautical tradition for mariners and the Coast Guard is pleased to bring back this part of our maritime heritage. However, the real message is that as the flags indicate changing weather from gale to storm to hurricane conditions, everyone, not just mariners, must tune in to National Weather Service broadcasts and start thinking what they will do to prepare for the worst. The power of nature cannot be underestimated. These nautical flags are intended to visually communicate to the American public the lesson of past hurricanes to take personal responsibility for individual safety in the face of an approaching storm.”

Posted by Alan Sorum

For most of us in the Northern Hemisphere, it's time to start thinking about pulling the boat and preparing it for winter. There are several articles here at Boating and Sailing that can assist you in planning for this important work. Experienced boaters know that putting some extra effort into properly preparing their boats will pay off in less commissioning work come Spring.

Six Common Boat Winterizing Errors - The Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatU.S.) releases the six most common winterizing mistakes made by boaters based on insurance claims history.

Blocking, Shoring and Jack Stands - Hints on how to block and shore your boat correctly for off-season storage and boat winterizing activities.

Boat Winterizing and Dry Storage - Taking a few extra steps now in winterizing your boat will make it easier to prepare and return to the water next season.

Boat Hull Preparation for Painting - Good hull preparation can reduce bottom painting costs and impacts to the environment.

Ethanol Fuel Problems for Boaters - Continued problems have been reported by boaters using ethanol blended gasoline. Mitigate many of these issues with a little proactive work on your boat.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Alaska and Canada's Stikine River is one of the great trans-boundary rivers found threading its way through the coastal mountains of Southeast Alaska and British Columbia. A friend of mine, Bonnie Demerjian of Wrangell Island, Alaska has written a comprehensive guide to the Stikine, describing its path from headwaters in the Spatsizi Plateau to waters of the Pacific Ocean at the river's delta.

The book is perfect for future fans of the great river. Wrangell and the Stikine were some of the first parts of Alaska visited by John Muir who called the river a "Yosemite 100 miles long." The Stikine saw prospective miners travel it in both the Cassiar gold rush of 1873 and Klondike rush that followed in 1898. Boaters of all sorts will love the river, opportunities for rafting, canoing, kakaking and powerboating abound. The river navigable by powerboat 160 miles from the delta near Wrangell to Telegraph Creek, British Columbia.

Roll On! Discovering the Wild Stikine River is published by Stikine River Books

Posted by Alan Sorum

I had a chance to visit with a number marine industry representatives and the editorial staff of Suite101 this last week in Vancouver. Flying on Air North out of Whitehorse, I arrived in Vancouver after a pleasant two hour flight. Driving through downtown Vancouver was uneventful and I landed at the conference hotel, the Westin Bayshore.

The 2nd Annual Canada Maritime Conference brought marine industry representatives together to discuss the future of the industry and especially the current Pacific Port Gateway initiatives being promoted by the Federal Government. In case it confuses anyone, my community of Skagway, Alaska serves as the gateway port for the Yukon.

The weather in Vancouver was unbelievable and you could see how the beautiful waterfront would encourage active boating. While in Vancouver, I had a chance to visit with the Chief Editor of Suite101, Joy Gugeler. Meeting Joy was a very enjoyable experience and she even bought lunch. Yet again, I survived another driving experience through Downtown Vancouver.

At the close of the conference, I traveled to Van Isle Marina at Sydney on Vancouver Island. Travel by car to the island requires the services of BC Ferries. BC Ferries handles a great deal of traffic between the mainland and island. Dockmaster Dana Dickenson gave me a tour of the Van Isle Marina, a full-service marina located very near the BCFerries Swartz Bay Terminal. Speaking to visitors from Oregon, transient boaters were enjoying the marina facilities.

I just missed visiting with Vancouver Island kayaking expert John Kimanas, who lives in North Vancouver. Any paddler interested in traveling to coasts of Southern British Columbia and Vancouver Island needs to buy a copy of John's Wild Coast 3 and the companion BC Coastal Atlas. They are remarkable publications and a worthy investment for visiting boaters.

Posted by Alan Sorum

France's national agency for tourism looked at the results of a recent marina capacity study and have concerns with its results. The survey using 2003 data demonstrates a shortfall of 54,000 marina berths throughout the country. Observation, Développement et Ingénierie Touristiques France (ODIT France) has created a committee to help remedy this problem.

The new group includes national representatives in port land use planning, recreational marine manufacturers, and marine trade groups. Representatives of local waterfront governments will participate as well. During initial organization of the committee, it was determined that a series of marina development guides should be prepared that would benefit both public and private groups interested in starting or expanding a marina. Guide topics include drystack storage, permitting requirements, and how to navigate within the regulatory environment.

ODIT France will also be publishing studies on marina economic impacts and how to redevelop former commercial harbors into recreational facilities. Additionally the French agency intends to conduct a national inventory of existing marina facilities and audit future projects that slated to start in the near term,

We know from work conducted by the Recreational Marine Research Center that marinas represent a huge economic impact to waterfront communities. Marinas are major economic engines for their communities.

Posted by Alan Sorum

With the recent focus on Hurricane Dean and predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that this will be an above normal season for Atlantic Hurricanes, BoatU.S. (Boat Owners Association of the United States) has made a number of tools available to better help boaters prepare for tropical storms. A working knowledge of hurricanes and advanced planning will lessen the negative effects of a storm on your vessel and marina.

BoatU.S. has established the Hurricane Resource Center, a website that offers a rich resource base for boaters and marina operators looking for useful information about these storms. Informational topics include:

• Hurricane preparation worksheets
• An in-depth guide for preparing boats and marinas for a hurricane
• Checklists for actions to take before and after a storm strikes
• Storm tracking tools with live satellite imagery
• NOAA weather forecasts, wind band and advisories
• Model hurricane action plans
• Tips on mooring, damage avoidance, and hurricane holes
• Hurricane photos and links to other on-line resources

Be sure to properly prepare for your craft for this hurricane season and review plans in place with managers of your local marina.

Posted by Alan Sorum

GWN (Great White North) Dragon Boat is a full-service dragon boat racing company based in Toronto, Canada. GWN sponsors a number of dragon boat events each year designed to provide team-building experiences, charity fund raising, and social interaction. Dragon boats originated in China and depend on excellent teamwork for their operation. Boats are crewed by up to twenty people, and are guided by a drummer and steering person.

Every year, GWN Dragon Boat organizes a premier dragon boat race event at Toronto's Western Beaches Watercourse at Marilyn Bell Park called the GWN Challenge. The 13th running of the race will be held on September 8th and 9th with an estimated 5,000 paddlers in participation and 20,000 spectators present for the event. Each boat crew will race twice a day, enjoying the benefit of full electronic timing and video replay equipment.

Currently 175 teams are registered to race in the GWN Challenge to raise funds and compete for many prizes. Charitable groups benefiting from the race include the Children's Wish Foundation, Canadian Living Foundation, Breakfast for Learning, Canadian Spinal Research Organization, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Variety Club, the Children's Charity and Big Brothers and Big Sisters. The GWN Challenge has raised nearly 990,000 dollars in its twelve year history for charity.

Event highlights include the Athlete's Village, live musical entertainment, Exhibitor's Village, a Beer Garden, food concessions, the kids zone, tiered spectator seating and volleyball courts. Visit the GWN Challenge website for more details on the upcoming event.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Canadian Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, the Honorable Lawrence Cannon announced on 14 August 2007 proposed new regulations to establish industry wide standards for commercial river rafting operations on Canadian rivers.

Minister Cannon says, "These proposed regulations are an important step forward to help ensure that a set of comprehensive and consistent standards protect participants in commercial river rafting excursions across the country. They also demonstrate Canada's New Government's commitment to ensuring the safety of all Canadians on our waterways."

The proposed new regulations for rafts are known as Special-Purpose Vessels by the government. These new rules will establish uniform standards that apply to all the waters of Canada. Currently commercial rafting is regulated in a river-by-river regime found in the Canadian Boating Restriction Regulations. These proposed standards for commercial rafting companies will include provisions requiring the use of life jackets, record keeping for three years, establishment of a formal rescue plans and development of passenger safety briefings.

These new regulations are meant to better ensure rafting industry compliance with the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 (CSA 2001) that governs marine safety in commercial and recreational boating activities, and protection of the marine environment. Proposed regulations were printed in the Canada Gazette, Part I on Saturday, August 11, 2007. A 60-day response period follows for interested boaters that wish to comment on the regulations. Visit the Canadian Marine Advisory Council website for more information on CSA 2001 and future regulation of commercial rafting.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety offers some boating safety suggestions for Canadian boaters this summer. They are of value to boaters in other regions.

Make sure the boat you use is in good working order. Be sure it is properly equipped. Using a Pre-Departure Checklist will ensure this happens.

Lifejackets - Each person onboard needs to be wearing a Canadian approved lifejacket that is in good condition, clean and fits well. Check the function of buckles, zippers and fasteners. An approved lifejacket will bear a tag or label in French and English showing certification by Transport Canada - Department of Fisheries and Oceans or the Canadian Coast Guard. Around 90% of the victims involved in water related fatalities were not wearing a lifejacket. Both swimmers and non-swimmers alike should wear a lifejacket.

Boating Gear - Depending on the size of your vessel, you will need at least this minimum level of equipment onboard:

• Floating Heaving Line - A throw rope is a good choice
• Flares and/or Flashlight - Carry approved signaling devices
• Manual Bilge Pump and/or Bailer
• Navigation Lights
• Paddles and/or Anchor
• Fire Extinguisher(s) - Carry the correct number and sized extinguishers for the size of your boat
• Pea-less Whistle and/or Horn - Good tools for signaling other boats. Consider attaching whistles to your lifejackets
• Life Jackets / PFDs - Have one for each person on board and be sure they fit

Pleasure Craft Operator Card - Proof of Competency Cards are required if you were born after 1 April 1983 or operating a vessel less than 4 meters (13.2 feet) in length. All powerboat operators will need proof of competency by 15 September 2009.

More boating safety information can be found at the Canadian Office of Boating Safety.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) released landing totals for the top commercial fishing ports in the United States for the 2006 season. Dutch Harbor-Unalaska, Alaska claimed the top spot for total tonnage with 911.3 million pounds of fish and shellfish delivered across its docks. New Bedford, Massachusetts brought in the most value for landings with $281.2 million for 2006. Overall domestic landings totaled 4.3 billion kilograms (9.5 billion pounds) and were valued at $4 billion.

This is the 18th consecutive year for Dutch Harbor-Unalaska to land on the top port list and Intracoastal City, Louisiana ranked number two for the year with 181.4 million kilograms (400.7 million pounds) of seafood. While New Bedford ranked first in value, it was followed by Dutch Harbor-Unalaska having landings valued at $165.2 million.

Top Ten Commercial Fishery Landing Ports for 2005-2006 in millions of pounds:

1. Dutch Harbor-Unalaska, AK: 911.3
2. Intracoastal City, LA: 400.7
3. Reedville, VA: 372.5
4. Kodiak, AK: 332.8
5. Empire-Venice, LA: 285.7
6. Pascagoula-Moss Point, MS: 212.1
7. New Bedford, MA: 169.9
8. Los Angeles, CA: 164.5
9. Astoria, OR: 164.1
10. Gloucester, MA: 148.4

Top Ten Commercial Fishery Value Ports for 2005-2006 in millions of dollars:

1. New Bedford, MA: 281.2
2. Dutch Harbor-Unalaska, AK: 165.2
3. Kodiak, AK: 101.4
4. Honolulu, HI: 54.6
5. Key West, FL: 54.4
6. Sitka, AK: 53.2
7. Brownsville-Port Isabela, TX: 52.0
8. Naknek-King Salmon, AK: 51.4
9. Hampton Roads Area, VA: 51.0
10. Seward, AK: 51.0

Posted by Alan Sorum

Recreational boating has a significant impact on the economy and marinas can greatly effect local water quality. Protecting the environment through sound operating practices and proper waste disposal will go a long way towards cleaner waterways. The Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is onboard to support the Clean Marina Program and its goals.

NOAA administrator, retired Navy Vice Admiral Conrad Lautenbacher, Ph.D. states, "Small steps that individuals can take will make a huge difference in the long run, and will create a safer, cleaner and more enjoyable setting for everyone. With nearly 95 thousand miles of ocean and Great Lakes coastline contributing tens of billions of dollars to the economy, we can all do our share to ensure the vitality of recreational and commercial boating.”

Marinas that participate in the Clean Marinas Program must address operational and administrative steps required to reduce pollution. These issues include the disposal of used oil, recycling plastics, operation of vessel pumpouts, treating process water at haulouts, vessel maintenance practices, fish waste and marina design. Many issues are handled through the adoption and use of Best Management Practices (BMP). Once the mooring facility completes a comprehensive checklist documenting compliance, the marina is inspected and granted certification if it passes.

TheClean Marinas Programis a excellent example of a public private partnership that brings private, local, state and federal entities together in a collaborative manner. The boating industry has a chance to self-regulate its activities, preventing a bureaucratic approach to regulatory requirements. Go to the NOAA Coastal Management webpage to see which marinas are certified in your region.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Recreational boat owners may need to be permitted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) if a recent decision from the United States District Court of Northern California is upheld. Under terms of the Clean Water Act, the EPA administers what is called the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). NPDES is a program familiar to many industrial and municipal organizations, but not to the average boater. Historically the EPA has excluded routine discharges incidental to the normal use of a vessel for the last 34 years. These discharges are things like cooling water, gray water, deck runoff, and water used in hull cleaning. In Northwest Environmental Advocates versus EPA, the District Court found that vessels previously exempted from NPDES regulation for incidental discharges will be required to hold an EPA issued permit.

Initial goals of the environmental lawsuit were to force regulation of ballast water discharges by commercial vessels. Concerns have circulated for years that improperly handled ballast water could spread invasive aquatic species. Unfortunately the Court's decision was not limited to vessels that have a ballast water tank, potentially implicating 18 million of recreational boats, 81,000 commercial fishing boats and 53,000 cargo vessels in the United States.

Not only will this new ruling create a bureaucratic structure to issue and enforce terms of the permits, some industry analysts believe they could cost up to $800 each. The boating industry rightly worries this scheme could pose a mortal danger to the future of their trade.

The EPA is seeking public comment to help the Agency design incidental boat discharge permits in a timely manner. Comments must be made by 6 August 2007. If the current EPA appeal of the decision being made to the U.S. Court of Appeals is unsuccessful, new permits must be in place by September of 2008.

US Representative Candice Miller (R-MI) and Gene Taylor (D-MS) have introduced the Recreational Boating Act of 2007 to continue the exemption of recreational boats from Clean Water Act. Boaters concerned with this issue need to contact their legislators in Washington.

Sent comments to the EPA by e-mail to ow-docket@epa.gov - Attention Docket ID No. OW-2007-0483 or send an original letter and two copies via the postal service to:

Environmental Protection Agency - Mailcode: 2822T

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20460

Attention Docket ID No. OW-2007-0483

Posted by Alan Sorum

Thirteen grassroots organizations were awarded grants by the BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water to support clean water projects. The foundation is national non-profit sponsored by the Boat Owners Association to the United States (BoatU.S.). A total of $25,000 was awarded with groups receiving up to $4,000 each. Projects are meant to reduce marine debris or improve clean boating practices. More than 100 organizations competed for grant funding from the foundation.

Susan Shingledecker, Director of Environmental Programs for the BoatU.S. Foundation says of the program, “By working with these on-the-ground partners we are able to influence boaters with information that has a distinct local point of view. It’s exciting to see the interest in environmentally sound boating from groups all over the country."

Along with the award of 13 clean water grants, the foundation announced that the Oyster Bay Power Squadron of Oyster Bay, New York had received the group's Clean Water Grants Excellence Award recognizing the organization that realizes the best success in finishing their BoatU.S. sponsored project. The Oyster Bay Power Squadron received an additional $1,000 for their efforts. The group's clean water project involved development of informational signs and brochures pointing out the location of pumpout stations and guidelines for boat fueling practices.

Groups receiving clean water grants from BoatU.S. Foundation this year include:

• Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County in Centerport, New York
• Friends of Jackson County Conservation in Maquoketa, Iowa
• Lake Lanier Association from Gainesville, Georgia
• Lakes Restoration Committee of the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber Foundation in Albert Lea, Minnesota
• Little Miami River Partnership from Owensville, Ohio
• Monroe Boat Club and Lake Erie Environmental Outreach Program of the Monroe Public Schools in Novi, Michigan
• Patchogue Bay Power Squadron of East Islip, New York
• USCGA 9-4 of Mohave Valley, Arizona
• USCGA 17-2-1 of Homer, Alaska
• USCGA 54-20-06 of Washington, North Carolina
• USCGA 5S-3-10 from Tappahannock, Virginia
• USCGA 8CR-1-9 from Panama City Beach, Florida
• USCGA 9-3-2 from Lancaster, New York

Posted by Alan Sorum

The most popular article to date in the Boating and Sailing Section of Suite101 has been one of the first presented discussing Successfully Launching Your Boat. BoatU.S. is a boating advocacy group that is focused on promotion and preservation of recreational boating. As an organization, they have a number of interesting resources related trailering and launching boats.

Ramp Locator – The online Boat Launch Ramp Locator is an easy way to identify a new place to launch your boat. It lists municipal, state, marina, boat club and privately owned ramps available for use searchable by zip code. Plugging in the zip code for my home of Skagway , Alaska 99840 returned information on the ramp at our community small boat harbor. Descriptions include details about the ramp, size restrictions, fees, available parking, local services and contact details for the facility. If your favorite site is not listed, there is an easy to add it to the database.

Off the Ramp – This page at BoatU.S. details the disasters that befall boaters at the launch ramp. It falls under a similar vein of stories told in Stupid Boater Tricks. It is definitely better to learn from others misfortunes at the ramp.

Boat Trailer Towing Laws - A state-by-state summary of laws related to towing a boat. Once you locate a new boating site, learning local laws can reduce unexpected headaches and costs.

Trailer Assist - BoatU.S. offers a unique service for boaters towing trailers called Trailer Assist that provides on-the-road assistance for towing emergencies the United States, Canada and Mexico.

• Roadside assistance for fuel delivery, flat tires, jumpstarts, and lockout service
• Towing assistance for trailer and tow vehicle
• Launch ramp fee rebates
• Subscription to BoatU.S. Trailering Magazine

Posted by Alan Sorum

Cold water efficiently transports heat away from a body in the water, some 25 times faster than air. Many boaters only think of hypothermia as a winter season issue and this can be a dangerous mindset. Many cold-water injuries occur in the spring and fall. Going further a field to the north will make it a summer time worry as well. While out on the water, place a bare hand in water for half a minute. If it comes back numb or tingling after withdrawal, you need to be concerned with cold-water injuries. Boating in water less than 10°C (50°F) should always be treated as operating in a cold-water environment. Safe boating depends on good planning and preparation.

Dress Appropriately – Wear a dry or wetsuit in cold-water conditions. Using layers will allow easy adjustment to prevailing conditions. Avoid cotton clothing at all costs, it easily adsorbs and holds water. Cold Water Boating Safety depends on good preparation and education.

Wear a Personal Flotation Device – In most cases, boaters never have a chance to die from hypothermia. By not wearing a lifejacket, drowning occurs long before a cold injury can be a problem.

Avoid Alcohol – Use of alcohol effects the body's ability to retain heat, impacts its ability to generate heat and reduces good judgment making abilities. A change in just one of these factors can hurt safety.

Learn to Recognize and Treat Hypothermia – A reduction of the core body temperature to less than 35°C (95°F) is considered hypothermia. Knowing the causes and first signs of this problem is key to treating hypothermia.

Outdoor Survival depends on preparedness. Enjoyment of waterborne sports carries a responsibility and concern for safety. Safety doesn't take away from the boating experience, it ensures that you can enjoy it another day. Remember to boat with a friend.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Prudent mariners take care with the maintenance and care of the lines used on their vessels. There are many knots and hitches that are useful to a boater and knowing them will make the vessel operations much easier and safer for everyone onboard. Here are a few knots and hitches that I think every mariner should know to use. Each knot description is linked to the Animated Knots by Grog website that has excellent, step by step instructions on how to tie them properly.

Round Turn and Two Half Hitches - This is a useful knot and recommended by many for mooring a boat to piling or bullrail. It is reliable and can be quickly tied, but my personal experience shows a clove hitch as being a better choice in some situations. Using the two half hitches allows the length of a line to be easily adjusted making this a good choice for tying fenders to a vessel's rail. If you look closely, the two half hitches is really a clove hitch tied to the standing part of a line.

Bowline - This is best known nautical knot. When tied properly, it does not jam or slip and can be untied after being loaded with weight. It can be used to tie a line to a ring, a piling or to another line. Some care must be taken because the knot can come undone when not under a load. One solution is to tie a figure eight knot in the bitter end of the line to keep it from passing through the bowline knot.

Figure Eight - The figure eight is a stopper knot. It is meant to keep the bitter end of a line from passing through a block or another knot like the bowline. The figure eight is easy to untie after being loaded and is the basis for many knots that have gone on to replace the bowline.

Cleat Hitch - This is a figure eight hitch wrapped around a cleat used to secure a line. A turn is made around the cleat with the line, several figure eight turns are made between the horns of the cleat and it is finished with a half hitch for securely. This is hitch that every sailor needs to know and learn to tie quickly.

Anchor Bend – As the name implies, this is the preferred knot for attaching a line to an anchor. It is also useful for tying lines to crab or shrimp pots. The knot is closely related to the round turn and two half hitches. It holds well with wet, slippery line.

Clove Hitch - This hitch is well suited for securing mooring lines to wooden bullrails. When finished with the bitter end put into a half hitch, this hitch makes a very secure connection to the dock. The knot can be formed in hand or by passing the ends around the anchoring object.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Check for Safety Recalls Concerning Your Boat

The U.S. Coast Guard has a safety program that requires boat manufacturers to immediately begin a recall if a safety defect is identified for one of their vessels. Between sales of used boats and movement of boat owners to other regions, boat builders do not know where all their vessel owners are located. The U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety keeps a recall website with a complete database of manufacturer's safety recalls. Searches can be made by hull identification number, type of defect, manufacturer name, make or model year.

Safer Boating Standards Set by Canada's New Government

Canada's Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities announced changes to the regulations concerning operators of pleasure craft on 27 June 2007. Changes were made to set higher standards for administering and accountability for the nationally required boat operator safety test. Candidates that successfully complete the test are issued a Pleasure Craft Operator card. The government of Canada sets certification standards, but tests are given by private organizations.

"Canada's New Government is committed to protecting the health and safety of Canadians and these amendments will improve the quality of the boating safety test," said Minister Cannon. "Education is key to preventing injury and death related to pleasure craft operations."

U.S. Coast Guard Celebrates 68th Anniversary

On 23 June 2007, the Coast Guard Auxiliary celebrates its 68th year of service to the people of the United States. The Auxiliary is uniformed civilian component of the U.S. Coast created by an act of Congress in 1939 that is focused on boating safety education. Auxiliarists now support all Coast Guard mission that are not related to military and law enforcement actions.

Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, Admiral Thad Allen states, "The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary provides an invaluable service to our Nation. We rely on their generosity and patriotism to help keep Americans safe and secure all around the country. The Auxiliary is an integral part of the Coast Guard and they assist with virtually every Coast Guard mission. We couldn't do what we do without them."

Posted by Alan Sorum

Taking a boating safety class pays rich rewards according the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). NASBLA has just released a study they sponsored on the benefits of best practices in boating safety education. The study points to a strong relationship between states with long histories of boating education and reduced numbers of boating fatalities. Study results show that the longer safety education program has been in place, the better the associated state boating safety record.

NASBLA Education Committee member Emily King says that, "Those of us who have worked in the boating education field for years have known the intuitively that there is a correlation between education and lower fatalities, but now we have the data to prove it."

In the United States, 44 of the 50 states require some form of boating safety education to operate a boat on their state waters. The requirements vary wildly from minimal class contact time to full blown licensure programs. Supported by the research findings, NASBLA continues to push states without boating education requirements to join their neighbors to improve safety. NASBLA has a model act available for state review that provides guidance in development of a new program to reduce boating fatalities.

There are many choices available for boaters in finding NASBLA approved boating safety courses. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has a program called America's Boating Course that can be taken on-line, in a traditional classroom or off the provided CD. The course is recognized nationally as an approved course and takes just a little personal time to complete.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The 2007 ISAF Sailing World Championships begin 28 June and will run until 13 July 2007. 1,564 sailors from 76 nations will be competing in 1,037 vessels in Cascais, Portugal. Long range weather forecasts predict northerlies blowing from 16 to 20 knots marking the potential for a lot of speed and excitement in the races.

Race sponsors have identified four special locations for spectators in Cascais from which they can view the sailing competitions. Starts are scheduled for 1300 each day.

Farol da GuiaM – A recently restored historic fort and lighthouse in Cascais dating from the 15th century. A small chapel was built next to the lighthouse to serve seafarers in 1610.

The Citadel of Nossa Senhora da Luz – A Portuguese coastal fort and tower dating from 1492. Social activities for the championships are being held here.

Praia do Tamariz – Viewing from the House of Tamariz built on the remains of the Fort São Roque at Estoril-Cascais and the namesake of the beach below.

Ponta do Sal – São Pedro do Estoril - A prehistoric habitation on the Portuguese coast, now the home of the Centre for Environmental Interpretation.

This will be the first time the ISAF has held the world championships in one location. The competition will determine placement of at least 75% of the sailors competing in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Sailing Games. Five regatta courses are distributed along the beaches of Cascais at which 306 regattas will take place.

• Conceiçaõ - Tornado
• Pescadores - 49er
• Cais dos Pescadores - Neil Pryde RS:X
• Cascais Naval Club – 470
• Marina - Laser and Laser Radial, Finn, Star and Yngling

Posted by Alan Sorum

Designed by Farr Yacht Design, the first Farr 40 one-design sailboat came out of the Carroll Marine yard in Newport, Rhode Island ten years ago. Farr and his design team are internationally renowned in the world of yacht racing. Quickly following the introduction of the Farr 40, the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) recognized its one-design class status in 1998. Participation in the class is high and continues to grow. Currently 156 boats have been built, with owners located in 19 countries.

Stagg Yachts teams with U.S. Watercraft to build new Farr 40s and is responsible for its class management. Geoff Stagg, President of Stagg Yachts, says, “Outside of the America’s Cup, without a doubt, the Farr 40 Class is the most successful big boat racing today. The caliber of amateur owners driving their own boats never ceases to amaze me. They are captains of industry, royalty and regular people. The friendships that are made are amazing. This is to me the neatest part of the Class, along with the remarkable development of driving skills. The passion the owners have for their class is its strength and success today.” One-design rules are responsive to owner input and suggestions. One example is the Farr 40 rule requiring the owner to serve as helmsman of the vessel during a race.

Rolex provides extensive support for the Farr 40 one-design class with sponsorship of events like the Rolex Baltic Week, Rolex Capri Sailing Week and the Farr 40 World Championship. Showing the international flavor of the class, Rolex Farr 40 World Championship will be held this year in Copenhagen, Denmark on August 29 to September 1.

A new Farr 40 will cost you about $347,492 without sails and electronics. One-design class rules insure the vessel's resale value and continued demand in the resale market. Masts and rigging components are built of carbon fiber. Deck layout represents significant planning and performs well. Hull and deck are built of PVC/Balas core laminated with a pre-impregnated E-Glass matrix using a vacuum bag process. A post-cure is made in an oven to maximize hull strength. Ample space is available for chart work, storage and galley requirements.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Marina managers, Coast Guard Auxiliary members and many boaters are familiar with the BoatU.S. Foundation and its work to promote clean boating. Last year the Foundation instituted a national Environmental Leadership Award to recognize outstanding efforts made by individuals and groups that are concerned with clean boating.

The winner of the first BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water Environmental Leadership Award goes to H.P. Sandy Purdon of California. Purdon is the founder and driving force of the Clean Marinas California Program. The special award was presented at a meeting of the California Boating and Waterways Commission. BoatU.S. conveyed a $1,000 gift as part of the award to encourage continued effort in this project.

Faced with increasing regulatory pressure, Purdon started working with boating clubs and marinas in southern California to create a voluntary program for marinas that based on self-regulation and monitoring. Industry self-regulation was seen as a better alternative to top down governmental rulemaking. Susan Shingledecker of the BoatU.S. Foundation adds, “What makes California’s program unique is that it is not run by the government. Instead, it is industry led. California’s program is currently one of the fastest growing programs in the country, and in just three years it has certified over 50 marinas."

More information on the California effort can be seen at the Clean Marinas California website.

Others honored with Environmental Leadership Commendations by BoatU.S. Foundation include:

• Jim Brown and the Lake County Airboat Association, Lake County, Florida
• Michael Danko, New Jersey Sea Grant
• Friends of the Rappahonock, Virginia
• Grand Lake Sail and Power Squadron, Oklahoma
• Will Keene, Edson Corporation, Massachusetts
• Dewayne Hollin, Texas Sea Grant
• Donna Morrow, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
• OCSC (Olympic Circle Sailing Club), Berkeley, California
• Gregory Reynolds, Palm Beach County, Florida
• Doug Truston, Wormley Creek Marina, Virginia

Posted by Alan Sorum

Philippe Duron, President of the Regional Council of Lower Normandy and Yvan Griboval, General Manager of SailingOne have signed an agreement to organize the SolOceans global yacht race in the Lower Normandy Region. The partnership will promote the region as a legitimate maritime sailing industry center with the start and finish of SolOceans to occur in Lower Normandy.

SolOceans represents itself as the first equal opportunity, single-handed global yacht race. Participants will use a one-design monohull called Veolia Oceans®. The SolOceans race is being developed by a company named SailingOne of La Trinité-sur-Mer, France. The Oceanic one-design monohulls are named after the prime event sponsor Veolia Environmental Services. The race will run every two years, with one leg starting in the fall and the finishing leg being completed at the beginning of the next year. The first 26,000 nautical mile SolOceans race is scheduled to depart in October of 2009.

President Philippe Duron says, “The SolOceans will participate in our efforts to provide Lower Normandy with a new ambition. Lower Normandy is an international gateway and this race, which will tour the world, will be its ambassador, since the challenges of tomorrow are world challenges. To be able to have a means of communicating with the whole world by welcoming sailors of several nationalities is of great importance. The human values conveyed by this oceanic race in which all the sportsmen and women will be on an equal footing is unifying for our territory and will send a strong message out to the world”.

A number of Lower Normandy equipment suppliers are providing equipment for the Veolia Oceans® one-design craft. Karver Demolin, Eric Semaine, Nanni Diesel, and North Sails France are represented in the region. Normandy is close to major population centers, has a large sailing event audience, is proximate to major international airports and harbors.

Jean-Pierre Champion, President of the FFVoile - French Sailing Federation stated, “We are highly satisfied to see the SolOceans enter the Ligue de Voile de Basse-Normandie programme. There is real legitimacy in this. The large harbours of the region, in particular Caen and Cherbourg, are reputed for their vitality and their skills in organising large sailing meetings. The solid support of the elected representatives of this region is an additional guarantee of quality. This announcement happens at a good time, since thanks to the work of the voluntary workers of the Ligue de Voile de Basse-Normandie we are witnessing a boost in the activities of our clubs and our sailing schools. There is a lot of human and technical potential in Lower-Normandy. It is a traditional sailing region undergoing complete renewal. The SolOceans will therefore be an additional development factor."

Posted by Alan Sorum

In a recent article about the Dockwise Yacht Transport (DYT) entering into a ocean monitoring pact with the International SeaKeepers Society, I mentioned a new vessel being built by DYT called the Yacht Express. The new yacht carrying ship was just christened on 24 May 2007 at the Yantai Raffles Shipyard located in the Province of Shandong, China. Based on Chinese tradition, the christening date was an auspicious or Huang Dao Ji Ri date.

Yacht Express is the newest and largest member of the DYT fleet of five yacht carrying ships. Dockwise Yacht Transport is the only service of its kind using semi-submersible ships to transport yachts by floating them on and off the larger vessel for shipping. Since 1987, the company has successfully transported more than 8,000 motor and sailing yachts around the world. DYT is renowned for its ability to transport extremely heavy and large marine cargoes.

André Goedée, CEO of Dockwise Transport N.V. states that, "Following the growth of the yachting industry and the still rising demand of intercontinental transportation of yachts, Dockwise has decided to invest in this type of vessel to further enhance the growing business of Dockwise Yacht Transport."

Construction of the Yacht Express begin in the Yantai Raffles Shipyard during 2005 and the vessel is some 130 feet longer than the next largest vessel in the DYT fleet. The new yacht carrier has a service speed of 18 knots and can make the Atlantic crossing in only eight days. Onboard amenities include complimentary cabins for ride along crews, a swimming pool, restaurant, movie theater, and conference center.

Principal characteristics of Yacht Express

• Length overall: 209.00 m / 685.7 ft
• Width overall: 32.20 m / 105.64 ft
• Depth: 8.50 m / 27.89 ft
• Draft: 5.80 m / 19.03 ft
• Draft submerged: 14.00 m / 72.18 ft
• Deck length: 165.00 m / 541.34 ft
• Deck width: 31.00 m / 101.71 ft
• Weight: 15,000 t
• Service speed: 18 knots

Following sea trials, DYT's new ship will visit Australia, New Zealand and Florida, as well as making an appearance at the Monaco Yacht Show in September. The show will be used by DYT as the principal, initial introduction of the Yacht Express to the yachting community.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Carp fishing isn't an Alaskan activity, but it appears to be very well-liked in Europe. I had no idea of its prevalence and popularity until I read about upcoming events surrounding the activity. Expo Event Management Ltd. is organizing the World Carp Fishing Show to be held at the Paris Le Bourget Exhibition Centre on November 10 and 11, 2007. The exhibition center is just north of Paris on the A1 motorway making the venue is easily accessible for most European countries. This event will bring together carp fishing anglers and support companies from throughout the continent.

Accommodations – Le Bourget is supported by a hotel capacity of 9,000 rooms within five minutes of the convention center. Special events prices for exhibitors are in the works for the show. Exhibitors and show participants will enjoy the services of numerous clubs, pubs and restaurants in and around the conference center. Access to the Paris nightlife at the likes of the Moulin Rouge on the Paris Strip are minutes away on the TVR transit system.

Exhibition Events – Show organizers are arranging educational presentations from well renowned carp fishermen, equipment demonstrations by leading gear companies, and numerous door prizes. Exhibitors will display new rods and reels, fishing holiday packages, and related fishing gear.

Carp fishermen interested in attending the event can track updates by visiting the World Carp Show website. Multiple opportunities are available for potential exhibitors.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking comments from the maritime community on the need for continued high frequency (HF) radio broadcasts of marine weather forecasts and warnings through radiofacsimile (radiofax), voice, and simplex teletype over radio (SITOR) formats. Coast Guard communication stations in seven locations throughout the United States and Guam broadcast NOAA weather information on frequencies between 3 and 30 MHZ.

Transmitting equipment is old and spare parts are becoming difficult to find. Continued investment in a replacement system depends on the agency's ability to document a public need for this service. Comments from users can also help the Coast Guard craft any new offerings to better service maritime users.

The Coast Guard is asking users of the HF marine weather forecasts system the following questions:

1. What is your position in the maritime community?
2. What are your primary sources for obtaining marine weather forecasts?
3. Do you use Coast Guard HF radio voice broadcasts to receive marine weather forecasts?
4. Do you use Coast Guard HF radiofax broadcasts to receive marine weather forecasts?
5. Do you use Coast Guard HF SITOR to receive marine weather forecasts?
6. What alternative source(s) for obtaining marine weather forecasts would you pursue if Coast Guard HF broadcasts were no longer available?
7. Would the loss of Coast Guard HF marine weather broadcasts affect you?
8. How far seaward does your vessel primarily operate?

Comments can be made online at the Docket Management Facility of the U.S. Department of Transportation or by writing the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC or by faxing comments to 202–493–2251. Include the Coast Guard docket number USCG–2007–27656 on documents to properly identify comments. The deadline for all comments is 24 August 2007.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Soundings is boating magazine founded in Essex, Connecticut that covers issues of interest to pleasure boaters. The magazine has a strong online presence that includes breaking news of yachting trails, regional events, and an extensive database listing boats for sale. A new feature of the online magazine is called the Rescue Channel.

The Rescue Channel will present boating survival and safety stories through the use of multimedia audio, video, photographic and web story files. Stories surrounding the challenges of the ocean and waterfront are always of interest to sailors, and the lessons learned through review of these incidents is invaluable.

A recent story covered on the Rescue Channel has been related to the severe weather experienced off the North Carolina coast in the last couple of days. With seas of forty feet and winds reaching 60 knots, the US Coast Guard launched HH-60 Jayhawk helicopters and C-130 aircraft from Air Station Elizabeth City to assist a number of sailboats in distress, homing in on signals emitted from EPIRBs. These included sailboats Lou Pantai, the 37-foot Seaker, the 54-foot Flying Colours, and the 67-foot Illusion, with some 13 souls onboard. The full-scale search and rescue operation is detailed as it unfolded. Video commentaries are posted for the rescues of the S/V Seaker and S/V Lou Pantai.

Following an intense weeklong search effort that covered 282,000 square nautical miles, the Coast Guard announced on May 14th that they would suspend the search for the Flying Colours. In the news release, Coast Guard Rear Admiral Larry Hereth said, "Suspending a search is always a difficult step for the Coast Guard because we understand the impact that it has on the families involved. In the last six days, Coast Guard cutters and aircraft, along with numerous aircraft searched all of the likely and unlikely areas where the crew could be. Sadly, the threshold of survival seems negligible."

Soundings Magazine has developed an interesting resource for boaters that are interested in learning more about marine safety and boating survival.

Posted by Alan Sorum

BoatU.S. in cooperation with the Marine Industries Associations of Florida and South Florida held a conference focused on preparing marinas for hurricanes. Industry leaders, hurricane experts and marina operators exchanged ideas on how to best weather hurricane and tropical storm events. BoatU.S. offers these suggestions in preparation of the upcoming hurricane season.

Written Plan - Good storm preparation depends on developing a plan of action that spells out actions to be taken prior to, during and following a storm. The experts recommend that your plan be committed to writing and discussed with everyone involved in it. A Hurricane Worksheet is available from BoatU.S. in PDF format.

Insurance – Removing your boat from the water is the best way to protect it from a storm. Check with your marine insurance professional and ask about a hurricane haul out rider.

Securing the Vessel – If your vessel is placed in the yard, check to see if it can be tied down. Add extra lines, fenders and strip the boat of loose gear if it is remaining in the water. Protect lines at point where they can chaff. Don't count on your marine to provide this service at the last minute.

Windage – Remove everything that can catch the wind. Tarps, covers, top, antennas, outriggers and the like. Unstep sailboat masts.

BoatU.S. has an excellent online Hurricane Resource Center that allows boaters to monitor storm progress and learn more about preparing boats and marinas from hurricanes.

Posted by Alan Sorum

This week Discover Boating launched a national contest seeking to find the most original boat name in the United States. The launch of the National Marine Manufacturers Association's (NMMA) new Discover Boating program and the release of the BoatU.S. Top Ten Boat Names List for 2006 were recently discussed here at Boating and Sailing. Several readers of this blog have submitted their favorites boat names to me and now you can enter them to Discover Boating for the chance of fame and fortune.

Discover Boating will be accepting entries online from its readers for their most unique boat names from April 23 through May 23. Visitors to the Discover Boating website will then be able to vote for their favorite name among the submissions accepted between May 24 through June 15. Additional joint sponsors of the contest include BoatRenting.com and Forever Resorts.

Speaking for Grow Boating Incorporated, Vice President Carl Blackwell says, "DiscoverBoating.com is becoming more and more of an interactive space, not only for the potential boat buyer, but for the boater looking to learn more about what he or she can experience on the water. We're excited to launch the boat name contest because it's a way we can engage visitors to DiscoverBoating.com and provide a forum for them to share their personal passions for one of boating's great pastimes—a boat's name."

The grand prize for the contest is a three day and three night houseboat getaway for up to six guests provided by BoatRenting.com and Forever Resorts. Airfare to one of the 10 Forever Resorts locations, boat fuel, and a boat operator are included in the prize package. So…Vote Early and Vote Often!

Posted by Alan Sorum

If you have following the build up to the final four of the Louis Vuitton Cup with its slow days, revised schedules and dramatic technical challenges, you know things are heating up in advance of the America's Cup competition.

There are many venues and outlets on the web that are highlighting these race events. Boating and Sailing at Suite101 is pleased to suggest a few of them to you. If you cross another interesting site concerning the America's Cup or any other boating related site for that matter, pass your recommendations on to us!

32nd America's Cup Official Website - This is the primary and official resource for information concerning the Louis Vuitton Cup and the upcoming America's Cup race.

Live Sail Die - A website for those that live for sailing need to Live, Sail and Die. This sailing site is based out of Australia and features articles on the America's Cup. Known as LSD to its fans, the site provides a number of interesting features for sailors, and those that closely follow the sport.

Sailing Anarchy - SA is an edgy website tailored to the sailing enthusiasts looking an unexpected slant on news related to the sport. The motto of the page is "Where the Status Quo Blows." Features some unvarnished commentary of the America's Cup events.

Wikipedia - 2007 America's Cup - An in-depth resource, Wikipedia details the 2007 races and much of the history, background and traditions surrounding the Cup races. Active and knowledgeable fans of the event can contribute to the content of Wikipedia's site. They are especially looking for relevant citations for references and sources of information concerning the America's Cup.

Google Calendar - Valencia Sailing has a very detailed calendar of America's Cup racing events posted to Google Calendars. A great resource listing daily flights of the round robin Louis Vuiiton Cup matches.

Sail World - This site offers daily reports and updates of Louis Vuitton round robin action and America's Cup news. At this point there are some 87 pages of historic information listed on the race.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced proposed rulemaking that will tighten emission standards for recreational watercraft engines on 17 April 2007. These regulations were a result of wide-ranging consultation with stakeholders and completion of in-depth research on the subject. Regulations could start to take force by 2009.

According to the EPA, a recreational boat can emit as much pollution as that generated by 348 cars. Regulation goals are to reduce carbon monoxide by 20 percent, hydrocarbons and nitrous oxides by 70 percent, and lower particulates by 6,300 ton per year by 2030. Benefits related to these stringent controls include reductions in premature death, hospitalization, and lost workdays. The agency estimates the regulations will increase the cost of an outboard motor by $280 and $360 for a personal watercraft. The overall cost of the new regulations will partially be offset set by anticipated fuel savings of $360 million a year by 2037.

EPA staff attorney Janea Scotts states that, "While small in size, these engines are big polluters, more than half of the people in our country are living in areas that don't meet basic public health criteria for ozone-smog. The summer-time ozone season looming right around the corner highlights how important it is to clean up these engines as quickly as possible."

The proposed rule includes for the first time items like:

• Establishment of fuel evaporative standards for watercraft
• National emission standards for boats powered by sterndrive or inboard engines
• Carbon monoxide standards for gasoline powered engines used on recreation vessel

One immediate technical solution available to engine manufacturers are catalytic converters. Reducing emissions from recreational boats is one way we can make boating more ecologicaly friendly.

Boaters can view the proposed regulations at the EPA webpage for gasoline powered boats and personal watercraft. A fact sheet describing the regulations is available on-line. The public can comment on the proposed rules up until 3 August 2007. Comments should be identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2004-0008 and can be submitted on-line or by e-mail

Posted by Alan Sorum

The America's Cup race committee has just released information on the first round robin races of the Louis Vuitton Cup starting on 16 April 2007. Many readers at Boating & Sailing may not be familiar with the ins and outs of America's Cup Match racing. Now is your chance to change this potential problem.

During 1851, the yacht America representing the New York Yacht Club defeated the British defender of the Royal Yacht Club's 100 Guinea Cup. The cup was renamed after the yacht America and offered as a perpetual challenge for yacht racing teams of all nations. Upstart sailors from the United States would go on to dominate the race for the next 132 years. Since the defending club sets to rule races, challengers face an uphill battle to gain the prize.

Challenger and defender teams participate in a series of competitive matches that build towards the final America's Cup event. The Louis Vuitton Cup race represents the final Act leading to the America's Cup match. Only the challengers participate in the final Act that occurs this April, with the winner moving on to race against the defending team in the 32nd America’s Cup Match.

The current defender holding the America's Cup is the Swiss Société Nautique de Genève (SNG), and its team, Alinghi. Team Alinghi has dominated the field of 11 challengers and is the clear favorite of the match. Port America's Cup is the host marina and the Spanish venue for the great race.

We will forward more news of the America's Cup as events unfold in the competition.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The Rolex Women's Match is yet another sailing event found in the World of Rolex Racing. Hosted by the St. Petersburg, Florida Yacht Club, this event is unique. Racers participate in a match racing clinic, complete in the race and the first two finalists are allowed to advance to the Rolex Osprey Cup, a Grade 1 event held later in St. Petersburg during October. This year's race date is scheduled for April 5th through April 8th.

Five-time Rolex Yachtswomen of the Year, Betsy Alison will instruct the sailing clinic before the race. Participants will receive lessons in skills and rules, with round robin races using Sonar keelboats. "In addition to being one of the world’s most recognized competitive sailors and a past world match racing champion, Betsy is an equally accomplished and sought-after coach. We are thrilled to have her return and share her knowledge," says Tom Farquhar representing the Rolex Women's Match event.

Rossana Ramos of Brazil and Verian Aguilar of St. Thomas, USVI are making their Rolex Women's Match racing debut at St. Petersburg. Skippers and crewmember participating in this year's race include the following teams:

1. Verian Aguilar, St. Thomas, USVI, with Kelly O'Brien, Christine Thompson, Jessica Rosenberg
2. Liz Baylis, San Rafael, CA, with Lee Icyda, Karina Shelton, Suzy Leech
3. Rossana Ramos, Brasil, with Raquel Aimone, Mariana Lacerda, Sandra Branchine
4. Meagan Ruhlman, Charleston, SC, with Martha Fisher, Amy Linton, Ashley Jerman
5. Sandy Hayes, Scituate, MA, with Nancy Haberland, Cindy Olsen, Kiki Zainea
6. Rachel Silverstein, St. Petersburg, FL, with Jee Lee, Kristen Herman, Becca Thomas
7. JoAnn Fisher, Annapolis, MD, with Linda Hiller, Emma Jones, Lindsay Bartel
8. Karen Park, St. Petersburg, FL, with Trisha Birkenstock, Liz Laborde, Merrill Varn
9. Arabella Denvir, Irvington, VA, with Jessamine Lewis, Lisa Denvir, Saskia Van Rijt
10. Louise M. Bienvenu, New Orleans, LA, with Sarah Paisley, Jenn Millar and one additional crew to be announced

Results of this year's event can be reviewed on-line at the Rolex Women's Match and St. Petersburg Yacht Club websites.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The United States Department of Environmental Protection (EPA) has issued updated regulations for the use of low sulfur diesel by boaters and the marinas that distribute diesel fuel. Starting on 1 October 2007, marinas must sell diesel does not exceed 500 parts per million (ppm) of sulfur. Marine fuel currently available at most marinas can run up to 5,000 ppm of sulfur. There are two forms of the new low sulfur diesel available to marinas. They are low sulfur diesel (LSD) that does not exceed 500 ppm of sulfur and ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) that can not exceed 15 ppm of sulfur.

These new EPA regulations do not apply to marinas in California. California adopted a more stringent standard that required the use of only ULSD starting 1 January 2007. There is no doubt that the new sulfur standards will protect the public. They however will pose some problems for marinas and boaters. The biggest issue facing marinas is their ability to turn over existing inventories of diesel in time to meet the new requirements. Marinas should move now to plan for this change. Boaters may have issues with effect of this low sulfur on fuel systems and engines.

As we noted with the increased use Ethanol blends to meet new air quality standards, low sulfur fuel will likely affect the lives of some boaters. Potential problems in older systems could include leaking seals, leaking fuel lines, lower lubricity of the fuel and plugged fuel filters. Reducing the sulfur content of diesel also lowers its lubricating qualities and the resulting protection of engine components like injectors. Refining low sulfur diesel changes its physical properties and could reduce engine performance. Boaters may see a slight reduction in fuel economy and peak engine output.

Diesel users should consult with their marina mechanic and engine manufacturer on strategies for coping with the new fuel. ASTM International established a standard for diesel lubricity and performance labeled ASTM D975 in January of 2005. Diesel engines designed to this standard can safely use ULSD fuels.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Team l’Hydroptère (hydrofoil) announced its intention to break the current category D 500-meter speed record and the absolute speed record for one nautical mile on 14 March 2007. Sponsors are working with the World Sailing Council to certify the data collection process and equipment to be used on the craft. A World Sailing Council representative will be on hand to certify the record attempts and measurements taken by the installed Trimble GPS system.

l’Hydroptère is more aircraft than sailboat. The vessel is designed to literally fly just at the surface of the water. With a length of 18 meters and 165 square meters of sail, the l’Hydroptère begins lifting off from the water at 12 knots. Project directors anticipate an ultimate top speed approaching 50 knots.

Looking for favorable weather, Alain Thébault and his crew will sail hard for seven days in La Trinité-sur-mer. Sailings will increase through the week as crew experience builds with use of l’Hydroptère. Ideal conditions will see winds of 25 to 30 knots from the south-southwest. Practice sessions are taking place in front of Port Haliguen to mimic these conditions.

You can view the latest pictures of the l’Hydroptère effort at their organization website. News of daily record attempts will be posted at hydroptere.com.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The Houston Yacht Club announced their Notice of Race for the 12th edition of the (Rolex IWKC) taking place in LaPorte, Texas this fall. This race is one of the many competitions comprising the World of Rolex Yacht Racing.

Renowned international women keelboat competitors from 60 countries will participate in 11 races during this four-day event held from November 12th to the17th. "The racing at this world-renowned event promises to be as challenging and fulfilling as any you could find given the skill level of the entrants and the experience of the all-volunteer Organizing Committee and Race Committee," says Houston Yacht Club's Regatta Chair Ginny Garrett. Planned social events include a visit to the NASA Space Center in Houston and the traditional Rolex awards presentation gala. Rolex awards a timepiece to the regatta champions.

US Sailing established the event in 1985 and it quickly became a foremost event for top national and international women sailors. The boat of choice is the J22. The race is held biennially and the winning team receives the Bengt Julin Trophy. Sailors can participate in a Road to Rolex clinic held before the event in a number of cities.

Posted by Alan Sorum

BoatU.S. is a well known recreational boating association providing a wide variety of services nationally. A few examples include providing boat liability insurance, conducting boating safety research, sponsoring clean water project grants and they have one business unit that makes custom graphics and letters for boats. Tracking of the most popular names from a database of 7,400 entries started in 1991.

A number of the names have made it to the list in multiple years. BoatU.S. shows Aquaholic and Happy Hours as enduring favorites. Newcomers to the list include Knot Working, Life is Good, Plan B, and Second Chance.

Top Ten Most Popular Boat Names for 2006:

1. Aquaholic
2. Second Wind
3. Reel Time
4. Hakuna Matata
5. Happy Hours
6. Knot Working
7. Life is Good
8. Plan B
9. Second Chance
10. Pura Vida

I've seen some "interesting" boat names over the years. Some that quite clever, some that are naughty, and more than a few that I just didn't get. If you have a favorite, email me at boating and sailing. I'll put a list together if there are enough responses.

Posted by Alan Sorum

I was driving into Skagway, Alaska from Whitehorse, Yukon Territory on the Klondike Highway a couple of days ago. Winter travel between the two communities involves driving under often poor conditions and crossing the snow covered White Pass through the coastal mountains.

Turns out there were a couple of avalanches waiting ahead of me and I had to spend the night in the village of Carcross until they were cleared away in the morning. Whitehorse is hosting the Canadian winter games, so driving back there for evening wasn't an option. There isn't a hotel room to be found I was told. True to the spirit of northerners, a RCMP officer and his family put me up at their home for the evening. It was a truly unexpected surprise.

We travel to work and to play in the winter months. Cold weather doesn't stop many of us from visiting the harbor or getting a little skiing done. I thought it would be useful to pass along some winter safety tips for visitors of Boating and Sailing at Suite101.

• Be an informed traveler. Many states have interactive road travel websites that can provide accurate highway information. 511.alaska.gov is an excellent example. The site provides road condition, closure reports, remote weather observations, and video from highway webcam sites.
• Operate a properly equipped vehicle. Ensure it is well maintained and serviced. Use studded tires if allowed by your regional law.
• Practice defensive driving. Reduce speeds, leave room to stop, avoid alcohol use, and watch for ice on bridges.
• Carry safety equipment and a survival kit in your trunk. I carry winter clothing, a sleeping bag, a backpacking stove, and freeze dried food. In the event of a mishap, be prepared spend a few days camped out with your vehicle. Your safest action will be to stay with the car.
• Carry a cellular phone, but remember coverage can be sporadic. Those that spend a great amount of time in remote areas may consider earning an amateur radio license or securing the use of a satphone.

Posted by Alan Sorum

EPIRBs or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons are electronic safety devices that can greatly assist rescuers in locating a vessel in distress. Further information on EPIRBs can be found in the article Eliminate the Search in SAR. A drawback of EPIRB use for the occasional boater is the cost. The BoatU.S. Foundation started an EPIRB rental program that provides boaters with access to a beacon at a reasonable cost of $40 per week and shipping.

Motor Boating Magazine announced that the BoatU.S. Foundation's EPIRB Rental Program was their pick for the magazine's "Best of the Year" award. Editorial Director Peter Janssen states, “Motor Boating magazine editors select the absolute best, the top, the true innovations of the year. The awards celebrate all of the elements of the boating life, and it’s my pleasure to congratulate the BoatUS Foundation.” A copy of the press release detailing the award can be seen at the BoatU.S. website.

BoatU.S. claims that their EPIRB rental program helped save the lives of 49 people during 21 incidents since 1997 where the beacons were activated by their customers. Beacons can be reserved online at the BoatU.S. website or by calling 1-888-66-EPIRB between noon and 5 PM EST. Beacons are shipped directly to any renter located within the Continental United States. BoatU.S. recommends making advance reservations during the peak summer boating season when supplies can be limited.

Posted by Alan Sorum

A high point in the Caribbean racing season is the International Rolex Regatta sponsored by the St. Thomas Yacht Club. This event will celebrate its 34th year in 2007. The three-day affair includes both one-design and handicap racing under the Caribbean Sailing Association rules. Race dates are set from Friday, March 23 through Sunday, March 25, 2007. The International Rolex Regatta is part of the World of Rolex Yacht Racing reminding us the name Rolex is synonymous with yacht racing.

Yachts will race from Cowpet Bay to Charlotte Amalie Harbour and back. The International Rolex Regatta enjoys the benefits of excellent race management, striking tropical scenery, remarkably blue water, reliable trade winds, intense competition, and great hospitality. Social events are planned throughout the three days of competition. “All sailors can count on cool breeze, warm water and a splash of rum,” said Regatta Co-Director John Sweeney. Winners in each class receive a prestigious Rolex timepiece.

There are currently twenty vessels registered for the race and the deadline for all entries is Monday, 19 March 2007. Contact Bill Canfield or visit the official Rolex Cup Regatta website for more information on the race.

Posted by Alan Sorum

A solar powered catamaran just completed the first crossing of the Atlantic Ocean using only energy from the sun to power its engines. The vessel sun21 arrived in Le Marin, Martinique on February 2, 2007 at 1500 local time. Sun21 left Chipiona, Spain on October 16, 2006 traveling some 3,500 nautical miles, retracing the route of Columbus, to Martinique with stops in Casablanca and the Canary Islands. During optimal weather conditions, the solar driven boat could travel 107 nautical miles a day. Travel plans for the vessel include planned visits to the islands of Dominica, Marie-Galante, Guadeloupe and St. Martin, and Miami, Florida.

sun21 is a MW-LINE C60 catamaran that is 14 meters long, 6.6 meters wide, and draws a draft of one meter. A large deck was installed between the two hulls that is covered in photovoltaic cells. By banking daylight energy into storage batteries, the sun21 can travel at average of 5 knots around the clock. This effort to demonstrate the merits of solar powered boating is sponsored by a non-profit group called transatlantic21. A blog of the sun21's journey is available at the group's webpage. The group intends to continue its promotion of sustainable energy use and solar powered boats.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Sailors from 49 countries competed in the finals of US Sailing's 2007 Rolex Miami OCR. Following the new race format that will debut in Qingdao, China, the top ten overall finishers in each Olympic class advanced to a single medal race.

Sailors from the United States took three medals in the Olympic and Paralyampic classes. The gold medals went to Morgan Larson and Pete Spaulding in the 49er class, Sally Barkow and and Carrie Howe in the Yngling class, and Scott Whitman and Julia Dorsett in the SKUD-18 class.

Day 6 -- Final Series Results (Top-Three)

(Final Medal Race Counts Double)

Finn (49 boats) -- 13 races

1. Peer Moberg (NOR), 7-8-2-6-1-5-3-4-7-[11]-4-2-2, 51

2. Jonas Hoegh-Christensen (DEN), 9-2-4-5-10-3-1-9-1-4-[11]-1-6, 55

3. Daniel Birgmark (SWE), 5-1-5-4-8-4-10-10-[18]-5-7-4-4, 67

49er (47 boats) -- 15 races

1. Morgan Larson/ Pete Spaulding (Capitola, Calif./Lafayette, Ind., USA), 4-7-[25/DNF]-2-1-4-1-11-3-10-8-2-4-18-6, 81

2. Stevie Morrison/Ben Rhodes (GBR), 1-6-3-1-1-7-[25/BFD]-1-9-8-17-7-6-12-8, 87

3. Morgan Lagraviere/Stephane Christidis (FRA), 2-7-2-9-3-9-4-[25/OCS]-10-4-1-21-5-1-10, 88

470 Men's (31 boats) -- 13 races

1. Nick Rogers/Joe Glanfield (GBR), 2-1-4-[11]-6-2-1-2-7-[20]-7-4, 47

2. Mathew Belcher/Nick Behrens (AUS), 6-[13]-8-7-5-10-6-4-2-4-10-6, 68

3. Gustavo Martinez/ Dimas Wood (ESP), 4-3-13-3-10-1-14-11-[18]-5-9-2, 75

470 Women's (18 boats) -- 13 races

1. Marcelien de Koning/Lobke Berkhout (NED), 1-1-1-8-5-2-[13]-3-2-4-1-8-4, 40

2. Ingrid Petitjean/Nadege Douroux (FRA), 4-2-8-6-1-[9]-4-1-1-8-3-[14]-12, 59

3. Amanda Clark/Sarah Mergenthaler (Shelter Island, N.Y./Aberdeen, N.J., USA), 2-5-6-9-3-1-[15]-4-4-2-13-6-18, 73

Laser (69 boats) - 13 races

1. Gustavo Lima (POR), 1-2-13-[21]-12-8-2-12-12-1-3-2-12, 80

2. Tom Slingsby (AUS), 2-1-7-8-1-13-1-1-3-23-7-[58/DNC]-14, 81

2. Michael Blackburn (AUS), 2-6-1-3-5-2-6-[35]-21-5-19-4-2, 86

Laser Radial (69 boats) -- 13 races

1. Sari Multala (FIN), 1-1-[27]-15-3-1-5-2-1-4-2-1-10, 46

2. Gintare Volungeviciute (LTU), 3-2-5-6-2-5-2-7-12-6-7-[36/OCS]-2, 59

3. Evi Van Acker (BEL), [35/OCS], 3-7-3-7-3-16-12-8-2-5-4-12, 82

RS:X Men (44 boats) -- 12 races

1. Przeymslaw Miarczynski (POL), 1-5-[15]-10-3-2-1-1-3-9-3-10, 48

2. Joao Rodriques (POR), [18]-3-6-6-9-74-4-2-10-10-2, 63

3. Samual Launay (FRA), [45/DNF]-9-2-7-13-5-8-6-15-9-12, 77

RS:X Women (28 boats) -- 12 races

1. Marina Alabau (ESP), [10]-2-9-2-1-10-10-2-5-3-2, 45

2. Flavia Tartaglini (ITA), [29/DNS]-13-2-6-5-2-8-5-3-1-6, 51

2. Bryony Shaw (GBR), 4-5-4-3-[7]-6-6-6-1-4-16, 55

SKUD-18 (10 boats) - 13 races

1. Scott Whitman/Julia Dorsett (Brick, N.J./Boca Raton, Fla., USA), 4-[6]-4-4-1-1-1-1-2-5-3-2-2, 30

2. David Cook/Brenda Hopkin (CAN), 2-4-3-1-5-2-[11/DNF]-3-3-2-4-4-4, 37

3. Karen Mitchell/JP Creignou (Deerfield Beach, Fla./St. Petersburg, Fla., USA), 6-2-1-2-[11/RAF]-4-3-2-5-11/DSQ-5-3-1, 45

Sonar (14 boats) -- 13 races

1. Dan Parsons/Tom Pygall/Guy Draper (GBR), 3-3-2-[15/OCS]-1-2-3-8-9-5-2-4-10, 52

2. Rick Doerr/Tim Angle/Bill Donohue, (Clifton, N.J./ Marblehead, Mass./ Brick, N.J., USA), 6-1-9-2-8-[13]-8-2-7-7-1-1-1, 53

3. John Robertson/Hannah Stodel/Stephen Thomas (GBR), 2-4-1-3-7-1-4-6-4-3-3-[15RAF]-[15RAF], 53

Star (67 boats) - 9 races

1. Fredrik Loof/Anders Ekstrom (SWE), 3-2-2-1-2-4-[17]-2-16, 32

2. Hamish Pepper/Dave Giles (NZL), 4-1-[27]-2-13-14-11-3-2, 50

3. Afonso Domingos/ Bernardo Santos (POR), 1-11-1-[17]-2-1-7-9-20, 52

Tornado (43 boats) - 11 races

1. Darren Bundock/Glenn Ashby (AUS), 3-3-6-5-1-[44/OCS]-1-6-11-3-4, 43

1. Leigh McMillan/William Howden (GBR), 4-4-1-[11]-3-2-11-3-2-2-20, 52

3. Fernando Echavarri/Anton Paz (ESP) 6-2-[10]-2-10-5-8-4-9-6-12, 64

2.4 mR (25 boats) -- 13 races

1. Stellan Berlin (SWE), 1-5-[9]-7-7-1-1-2-5-2-2-2-4, 39

2. Megan Pascoe (GBR), 3-1-2-8-2-6-8-6-1-5-[13]-4-5, 51

3. Helena Lucas (GBR), 5-[7]-5-3-1-7-6-7-2-7-5-[10]-6, 61

Yngling (18 boats) -- 13 races

1. Sally Barkow/Carrie Howe/Debbie Capozzi (Nashotah, Wis./Grosse Pointe, Mich./Bayport, N.Y., USA) 3-1-4-6-4-2-[7]-6-1-2-1-2, 32

2. Sarah Ayton/Sarah Webb/Pippa Wilson (GBR) 1-3-[6]-5-6-6-3-1-2-4-2-1, 34

3. Silja Lehtinen/ Maria Klemetz/Livia Varesmaa, (FIN), 2-2-2-1-[12]-7-9-3-3-3-6-6, 44

Posted by Alan Sorum

The United States developed the Loran-C radio navigation system as a service intended for its coastal waters. Coverage expanded to cover all of the contiguous states and Alaska. Current receivers are capable of better than 0.25 nautical mile accuracy in covered areas. GPS navigation has overshadowed the older Loran-C system in popular use.

The U.S. Coast Guard maintains and operates Loran transmitting stations. Loran is a reliable navigation system and the Coast Guard has spent millions to update equipment and centralized operations. GPS can be unreliable in some areas covered by Loran and the older system is a viable backup to GPS navigation.

There was a move afoot to eliminate funding for Loran in FY 2007. Congress intervened and extended the funding for an additional year. The Coast Guard is now seeking comments from the public on whether funding should continue for operation of these stations. Comments can be made at the Department of Transportation Docket Management System by February 7, 2007. Click on the Comments/Suggestions button and enter docket number USCG-2006-24685. You don't need to register to post a one time comment.

Boaters should support the continuation of Loran-C. This a modern system that has had substantial resources devoted to its modernization. Loran is an excellent backup system for GPS and receiving equipment is readily available for users. Post a comment in support of Loran before February 7th.

Posted by Alan Sorum

After a week of heavy snow, it's definitely time to think about getting ready for spring and back in the water. I will be posting a series of articles that can help you get back in business this year. Links to additional information are also being provided. I need some help shoveling the snow off my boat before I can get started. Feel free to stop by and enjoy the experience.

Spring boat preparation involves several areas of interest. Areas covered here at Boating and Sailing include:

• Vessel Exterior
• Hull Condition
• Vessel Interior
• Emergency Equipment
• Electrical Systems
• Outboard Engines and Outdrives
• Inboard Engines
• Boat Trailers
• Galley
• Head and Waste Treatment Systems
• Water Systems
• Sails and Rigging

Enjoy the new boating season!

Posted by Alan Sorum

The Chesapeake Sailing Yacht Symposium (CSYS) is a leading source for information on sailing yacht technology. Participants come to the event from around the world. This symposium is conducted every two years and the 18th edition will be held on March 2nd and 3rd, 2007 at St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland.

Examples of this year's topics include:

• A Combined Ship Science-Behavioral Science Approach to Create a Winning Yacht-Sailor Combination
• Enhanced Wind Tunnel and Full-Scale Sail Force Comparison
• Further Analysis of the Forces on Keel and Rudder of a Sailing Yacht
• Increasing Performance of IACC Sailing Yachts Through Seakeeping Study
• Slamming of Composite Yacht Hull Panels: Principles for Design of Hulls for Dynamic Loading
• ARPRO: A New Structural Core Material for the Yacht Industry
• Analysis of Wavemaking Resistance and Optimization of Canting Keel Bulbs

To learn more about the symposium and registration, visit the Chesapeake Sailing Yacht Symposium website.

Posted by Alan Sorum

505's are fast, double-handed sailing dinghies. The 52nd 505 Worlds or officially known as the SAP 2007 International 505 World & Australian Championships are being held in Adelaide, Australia. Events will occur from 22 January 2007 to 2 February 2007.

There are currently 93 entries from 13 countries registered for the sailing event in South Australia. The host club for the 505 Worlds is the Brighton & Seacliff Yacht Club (B&SYC). Northwest 505 has a blog post up how to get around in Adelaide.

If this quote from the International 505 Worlds site is a clue: "International 505 is the best two-person racing dinghy in the world and its supporters are renowned for their fun loving spirit.", this will prove to an exciting sail racing venue.

Posted by Alan Sorum

70 yachts are ready to race 167 miles from Buenos Aires to Punta del Este, Uruguay in the Circuito Atlantico Sur Rolex Cup 2007 on January 14, 2007. Race organizers include the Yacht Club Argentino, Yacht Club Olivos, Yacht Club Punta del Este and the Yacht Club Uruguayo.

The Frers designed Fortuna III from the Armada Argentina, skipped by Alberto von Wernich is the race favorite. Current forecasts predict an upwind battle that will favor the larger yachts in the race and delayed the start of the race this morning. This is another event in the World of Rolex Yacht Racing.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Mount Gay Rum and US Sailing are sponsoring a series of sailing seminars across the United States. There are 16 sessions scheduled to start in late January and running into April.

Speakers include sailing commentator Gary Jobson, America’s Cup Race Official Peter Reggio, racing rules expert Dave Perry, and Olympic contenders Sally Barkow, Carrie Howe, and Debbie Capozzi. This is the speaking series third season and the events should be of interest to both cruisers and racers.

Updates to the schedule can be seen at US Sailing website.

Scheduled US SAILING Mount Gay Rum Speaker Series events:

• 27 January 2007 - Lake Lanier Sailing Club, Flowery Branch, Georgia. Contact: Michael Lenkeit
• 2 February 2007 - SAYRA, The Fire House, The Fire House, Charleston, South Carolina. Contact: Sara Ashton
• 9 February 2007 - Inland Yachting Association, Olympia Resort, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Contact: Suzi Reese
• 13 February 2007 - Arizona Yacht Club, Pete's 19th Tee, Tempe, Arizona. Contact: Lisa Heisler
• 1 March 2007 - Indian Harbor Yacht Club, Greenwich, Connecticut. Contact: Jonathan Nye
• 3 March 2007 - Cedar Point Yacht Club, Westport, Connecticut. Contact: Ann Wilbanks
• 10 March 2007 - Hyannis Yacht Club, Hyannis, Massachusetts. Contact: Wes Richardson
• 31 March 2007 - Mallets Bay Boat Club, The Rusty Nail, Stowe, Vermont. Contact: Alan Ouellette
• 4 April 2007 - Encinal Yacht Club, San Francisco, California. Contact: Joe Melino
• 6 April 2007 - Austin Yacht Club, Austin, Texas. Contact: Steve Vaughn
• 7 April 2007 - Dallas Corinthian Yacht Club, Dallas, Texas. Contact: David Butler

Posted by Alan Sorum

Seaworthy Magazine, a publication focused on the BoatU.S. marine insurance program, marine causalities, and damage avoidance has studied insurance claims to identify the causes of sinking among inboard/outboard (I/O) powerboats.

I/O powered boats use flexible rubber coverings to seal off the penetration of the out drive and various cables through the transom. These rubber coverings, called boots or bellows, are relatively fragile. Editors at Seaworthy Magazine warn boaters to beware of boots that are over five years of age.

The number one cause of sinking at the dock is a failure of an outdrive boot. Striking an object in the water was identified as the primary cause of sinking for boats underway.

Visit the BoatU.S. webpage for more safety information about your vessel.

Posted by Alan Sorum

Rolex Miami OCR organizers have announced a record setting field for the event to be held in Biscayne Bay from January 21 to 27, 2007. As of January 3, there are 556 world class sailor's from 43 different countries registered to complete.

Miami's Rolex OCR is the only approved International Sailing Federation (ISAF) Grade-One event held in the United States. All event craft selected for the next Olympic and Paralympic Games will race.

One new development is the participation of the City of Miami. Miami is helping expand the available sailing venues and will provide City staff and departmental support for the event.

More information on event will be posted at the Rolex Miami OCR website.

Posted by Alan Sorum

The off-season is the perfect time to contemplate a fishing, rafting, kayaking or sightseeing trip to Alaska. A trip can be very affordable, especially if you use some of your down time to plan for it.

I have written several articles that can help you get started on planning and taking a trip to the Great Land this summer:

Remote Cabins in Southeast Alaska - Tongass NF cabins are a great way to explore the region and enjoy its outdoor activities. Access is by boat or plane making the cabins an easy way to visit the wilderness

Waterfall Resort, Alaska - There are many high quality fishing lodges to be found in Alaska. One of the industry leaders is Waterfall Resort located near Ketchikan, Alaska.

Alaska Sea Grant College Program - Take some time to browse through the Alaska Sea Grant Bookstore. There are many titles of interest for boaters and maritime enthusiasts.

The Alaska Marine Highway System - Use the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS)to access the many boating and recreational opportunities found in Alaska.

Alaska InterIsland Ferry Authority - Travel on the Alaska Inter-Island Ferry Authority to access the recreational opportunities found on Prince of Wales Island and surrounding communities.

Boating in Glacier Bay NP - Plan a boating trip to Glacier Bay, part of the UNESCO World Heritage system. Hundreds of boaters cruise Glacier Bay each year. You could be one of them!

Port of Call – Ketchikan, Alaska - Visit Alaska's "First City", starting point for boating through the Inside Passage to Glacier Bay.

Posted by Alan Sorum

North U has announced its North American Race Tour seminar schedule for 2007, which will focus on sailboat trim and tactics. Seminars are held back-to-back, trim and speed on one day and tactics, rules, and strategy the next. Readers of Boating and Sailing at 101 may be interested in taking one of these race seminars this year.

Bill Gladstone, North U. Director says, "You can spend a lifetime learning to be a better sailor. North U is here to accelerate the process with seminars, books, CDs, and a full range of on the water programs. Please do not hesitate to contact us for guidance in choosing the product or service that suits your needs and interests."

The published schedule follows:

• San Francisco - Point Richmond, CA USA January 27 & 28, 2007
• Santa Monica - Marina del Rey, CA USA January 27 & 28, 2007
• Boston, MA USA February 10 & 11, 2007
• Toronto - Mississauga, ON CAN February 10 & 11, 2007
• Ft. Worth, TX USA February 17 & 18, 2007
• Victoria, BC CAN February 17 & 18, 2007
• Lancaster, VA USA February 24 & March 31, 2007
• Toms River, NJ USA February 24 and March 24, 2007
• Portland, OR USA March 3 & 4, 2007
• Stamford, CT USA Mar 3 & 4, 2007
• Chicago, IL USA March 10 & 11, 2007
• Erie, PA USA March 10 & 11, 2007
• Long Island - Woodbury, NY USA Mar 10 & 11, 2007
• Annapolis - Arnold, MD USA Mar 17 & 18, 2007
• Bristol, RI USA Mar 24 & 25, 2007
• Montreal - Dorval, QC CAN Mar 24 & 25, 2007
• Seattle, WA USA March 31 & April 1, 2007
• Detroit, MI USA April 21 & 22, 2007
• Long Beach, CA USA April 21 & 22, 2007