Power & Motoryacht Editors

We've moved! Check us out at our new home.

2009-07-24T12:15:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

Blogger has been a great platform for helping us reach out to the boating world. Powerandmotoryacht.com has been updated and now allows us to blog directly from the site. So, check out our new community digs and follow our editorial crew.

A Mega-Island?

2009-01-23T10:29:00.006-05:00

According to a recent report on CNN.com, there's a brand new mega-model on the horizon. That's right, the floating island. Megayacht design company Wally has devised plans for a 100-meter vessel that will serve not just as a boat, but as a floating estate meant to accommodate those who want a year-round, liveaboard lifestyle but don't want to sacrifice luxury. The island-yacht, which can accommodate 24 guests and 40 crew, has what her designers refer to as a "commercial look." But that doesn't mean she can't be personalized. In fact, owners can incorporate just about any feature they want, from oversize helipads to Olympic size pools. The team at Wally drew up two possible options—the full tennis court and giant tropical garden (seen here). So what do you think? Will megayacht owners go for the year-round, floating-island lifestyle?

No Takers

2009-01-22T11:08:00.004-05:00

Late last fall Saddam Hussein's megayacht, Ocean Breeze, finally got a for-sale sign. Now, two months later, that for-sale sign is still swinging in, well, the breeze (pun intended). The former dictator's 270-foot vessel is now making its way back to Basra, Iraq, courtesy of the Iraqi government. It had been moored in France where it waited for a nearly yearlong ownership battle to play out in the courts (see "Winds of Change," in our February issue).

Built in 1981, the megayacht sports a mini-operating theater, a helicopter landing pad, bathrooms with gold-plated fixtures and a secret passageway. When it hit the market in November industry experts expected it to fetch approximately $30 million; however, as the global economic crisis rages most buyers are tightening their purse strings, sitting on the sidelines until the markets take a turn for the better.

According to a statement from Iraqi government spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh, the Iraqi finance ministry had been instructed to pay about two percent of Ocean Breeze's value to a lawyer handling the paperwork. In addition, it had to pay mooring fees and the charges of a Greek company that had been maintaining the megayacht. To avoid continued mooring fees—and possible lawsuits concerning them—the government decided to bring the Ocean Breeze home.

More on Ethanol

2009-01-21T14:27:00.003-05:00

In the January issue of Power & Motoryacht, Capt. Patrick Sciacca chronicled two boaters’ adventures with ethanol gasoline (Encounters With Ethanol). In 2003, several states switched from traditional methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) to a fuel blend containing 10 percent ethanol (E10)—with many arguing that the move will help reduce our dependency on foreign oil. However, Sciacca’s article detailed how E10 can also erode fiberglass fuel tanks and rubber hoses.

Now the Marine Retailers Association of America (MRAA) has taken a stand on the issue. Its board of directors recently approved a resolution supporting “all efforts to retain current federal ethanol gasoline additive standards of E10 and oppose any attempts to increase additive levels beyond that level due to the destructive nature of ethanol to marine engine systems and the resulting safety considerations to vessel passengers.”

The resolution was one of several given to the MRAA by the Advisory Council of Marine Associations at MRAA’s annual convention this past November.

Catch the Wave

2009-01-12T13:36:00.000-05:00

Kicking off a new year, CharterWave.com has kicked off a revamped Web site as well. The two-year-old site, which is an online source for crewed charter yachts, now features a new design and reader-friendly features. Looking for the latest information on the industry? Check out the CharterWave Digital Newsstand, which offers articles and informational brochures posted on the Web. Other new features include “Three Brokers Say”, a monthly editorial piece, and “Sponsored Blog News.”

“As our readership has grown and our readers have proved to be charter clients, more companies than we could previously accommodate have requested advertising space,” explained CharterWave founder and editor Kim Kavin. “ Demand has risen dramatically in the past six month as the economy has declined and good vale in advertising has become paramount.”

New York-based Media Buoy worked with CharterWave to make the redesign a reality.

China-Florida Connection

2009-01-08T10:20:00.003-05:00

Tricon Marine has put the finishing touches on its shipyard outside Zhuhai, China in a move that makes it the only wholly owned and operated North American shipyard in that country. The Palm Beach, Florida-based builder of FRP/Composite luxury yachts up to 180 feet has transferred yachts currently under construction to the new facility, including Tricon’s next launch—a 92-foot long-range offshore performance motoryacht. Both the newest launch and the shipyard will have their official coming out party in the spring.

Just a ferry ride away from Hong Kong and Macau, Tricon’s new shipyard measures 500,000 square feet. To focus on every detail of yacht building, Tricon plans to limit build-slots to a maximum of three yachts in simultaneous production for the next few years. At full capacity the yard will have production capability of 16 yachts indoors and in-water work on two more yachts up to 180 feet at its pier—making it the largest shipyard for composite yacht construction in China with a production capacity, according to a company release. Tricon can complete up to $60 million in work a year, depending on the size of the yachts under construction.

Lining Up for Dealer Certification

2008-12-17T10:43:00.001-05:00

Although social networking is a popular reason to log on to the Web, the Marine Dealership Certification Program—hoping the industry uses the Web to its advantage—is now offering a series of online Launch Workshops. The idea beyond the virtual workshops is to make it more convenient for dealerships to earn the Marine Industry Certified designation, at a reduced cost.

Signing on for a Launch Workshop is the first step in the certification process—which explains the program requirements and provides the tools need to complete the process. "The new Web-based workshops provide exactly what the dealers themselves told us they wanted: A quality program with an eye toward keeping the dealers' program costs as low as possible," explained Phil Keeter, president of the Marine Retailers Association of America and vice president of Marine Certification Inc.

With the new format, more dealership employees can participate without having to travel to attend classes because they can log on from their office computer. The workshops with take place over the course of two consecutive days. The Web-based Launch Workshops will be offered January 20-21, February 24-25, March 17-18, April 7-8, April 21-22, and May 12-13.

Rule Change

2008-12-16T13:35:00.004-05:00

Just in time for the winter boat show season, boatbuilders and dealers are getting some relief from the National Marine Manufacturers Association. NMMA's executive committee voted today to temporarily relax the non-current show policy for the 2009 winter boat show season. The association's show committee originally made the recommendation.

Under existing rules, exhibitors are only allowed to display 20 percent of their previous model year products at any 2009 NMMA winter boat show. However, in a move to help dealers sell their existing stock, that limit has been raised to 50 percent, according to a release from the NMMA.

"The NMMA show committee, executive committee and staff understand the economic realities currently facing the boating industry and believe this one-time policy change will give dealers a prime opportunity to sell more product at boat shows over the next few months," explains NMMA executive vice president Ben Wold.

Equity Boost

2008-12-12T10:20:00.001-05:00

Riviera, a luxury boatbuilder based in Australia, is taking steps to weather the global economic storm, and those steps include getting a financial shot in the arm.

After a strategic and operation review of the current economic climate, and its resulting slowdown in demand, the builder received an injection of new equity from its institutional investors which include Ironbridge and Greshman Private Equity, according to a Riviera statement. The financing arrangement, which includes a new three-year debt facility, provides the management team with greater flexibility as it responds to the challenges in today's global market, CEO John Anderson said. Riviera did not release the amount of the new equity.

Anderson noted Riviera's "encouraging" sales performance at international trade shows in the latter part of 2008; however, he expects the market in general to continue to slow as a result of the overall economic situation.

"We believe our new banking arrangements provide the business with greater operational flexibility and a more stable platform from which to build the business over the medium term and that the support of our bankers and institutional investors clearly reflects the underlying strength of the Riviera business," he added.

In addition, the builder is making changes to its executive team, appointing Ly-Eng to chief financial officer and Les Galbraith to managing director of the company's Australian retail organization R Marine. Former managing director Tim Sayer is moving up to new position of director of global sales and marketing. Also, Michael Burke climbs the ladder to director of operations.

Long-Range Goals

2008-12-11T09:39:00.005-05:00

Ocean Explorer 125

Platinum Marine Services is not just dipping its toe into the long-range exploration pool; it is jumping in feet first. The full-service shipyard in Vancouver, British Columbia is teaming up with Bray Yacht Design for the new 125-foot Ocean Explorer series.

Ocean Explorer 125 will be the workhorse of the two new designs, featuring a large open aft that has the ability to carry a helicopter, submarine, or large fishing tenders. The Explorer Yacht, the second in the series, favors a larger interior living space. Both vessels feature the master suite on the main deck and for guest staterooms on the lower level. Both can also accommodate up to six crewmembers.

According to Platinum Marine, the semi-displacement hull with a seven-foot draft was model-tested at the Ocean Engineering Centre in Vancouver for power selection and sea keeping. The bulbous bow and dynamic hull shape continues naval architect Patrick Bray's work with super fuel-efficient technology. Both the Ocean Explorer 125 and the Explorer Yacht have a range of 6,500 miles at a 12-knot cruise speed and a top speed of 20 knots.

Pat Logue takes WBS Grand Championship

2008-12-11T09:38:00.004-05:00

Pat Logue took the World Billfish Series Grand Championship last week, winning himself a bronze Grander Marlin trophy by marine artist Geoffrey Smith, a custom gold champion’s ring, the keys to a new 2009 Mercedes C-300 automobile, and the title of WBS World Champion of Billfishing.

Logue, from Cape Coral, Florida, was fishing out of Costa Rica aboard his 74-foot Viking Convertible First Strike. The top angler managed 1,000 points with two blue marlin and two sailfish releases.

In second place was Napa, California, angler Larry Drivon, fishing aboard the 42-foot Maverick, Dragin’ Fly. Drivon released six sailfish on the final day to score 600 points, taking home a custom crystal trophy and a custom Joseph Henry timepiece.

Finding third place was Costa Rica’s native son and the 2007 WBS World Champion, Mainor Oporto.

Tax Relief on the Horizon?

2008-12-11T09:31:00.005-05:00

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), which represents the United States' recreational boating industry, has announced its plans to lead a 71-member coalition in petitioning Congress for the extension of the net operating loss (NOL) carryback period from two to five years. The hope, the association argues, is that in doing so, Congress will "help businesses suffering from tough economic times."

An NOL is a period of time during which a company's expenses exceed its revenues, thus resulting in a negative taxable income. According to a press release from the NMMA, a company can currently opt to use its NOL to offset the taxes it owes on profits from the previous two years. It would like to see that period extended by three years. The rationale behind providing such a carryback period is simple: Businesses are required to pay taxes when they earn money, therefore, they are also are deserving of some form of tax relief if they begin to lose it.

"Congress has used NOL carryback relief in the past to help manufacturers, retailers, and companies across all sectors," NMMA president Thom Dammrich has explained. "We encourage legislators to use this tool again to enable these companies to retain jobs and avoid going out of business."

To that end, the association states that in the coming weeks, it (and its coalition partners) will meet with leaders in Congress and members of President-elect Obama's transition team to press for the extension. An extension aimed, as the NMMA puts it, at "ensur[ing] that the appropriate tax relief is enacted in a timely manner."

Newport Yachts 71

2008-12-10T09:54:00.007-05:00

Here is the Newport Yachts' 71SS4 going through sea trials this week in Taiwan. The planing-hull-designed 71 is equipped with Quad Volvo IPS engines/drives. According to the builder, the quad engines burned 40 gph at 31 knots (35.65 mph). At 20 knots (23 mph), the fuel burn was reported to be 17 gph. Top speed was just under 32 knots (36.8 mph) and there's still some prop tweaking to take place,which could add another knot or two to the top end of this big cruiser.

This solid-fiberglass-bottomed boat is built to meet ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) specifications and to ISO9001 standards to assure a consistent level of quality control.

EPIRB RECALL

2008-12-09T14:22:00.002-05:00

There’s been a limited recall on ACR GlobalFixlM iPRO EPIRBs. Here’s the notice:

Posted December 5, 2008

ACR has discovered that a small percentage of GlobalFix™ iPRO™ EPIRBs may not activate manually and has decided to issue a limited recall notice. The condition could exist in a maximum of 400 units built within serial number range of 1000 to 1688. If you own or have a GlobalFix™ iPRO™ that falls within this serial number range you should contact ACR's Customer Service department immediately at +1-854-862-2110 or at NBuckle@ACRelectronics.com.

ACR discovered that some of the witness seal tabs require the application of excessive force to put the switch into the correct position when manually activating the EPIRB. The water activation feature works separately and is not affected by the manual switch. The manual switch assembly needs to be reworked on a maximum of 400 units to insure that the switch and witness seal will activate as designed and intended. The 400 units potentially affected by this problem fall into the serial number range of 1000 -1688. If your GloblaFix™ iPRO™ serial number falls outside this range, then your GlobalFix™ iPRO™ is not affected by this notice. The 400 units could be of either the PIN 2846 Category I (automatic deploy) or PIN 2848 Category II (manual deploy) model.

This condition does not occur in any other ACR EPIRB model. This recall is limited to only the GlobalFix™ iPRO™ units falling within the serial number range of 1000 to 1688.

For more information or to obtain a Return Authorization contact:
ACR Customer Service
Telephone: +1-854-862-2110 (in the USA: 1-800-432-0227, ext. 2110)
E-Mail: NBuckle@ACRelectronics.com

Tragic Accident off Montauk

2008-12-09T13:06:00.006-05:00

An ordinary father-son fishing trip turned deadly last weekend 12 miles off Montauk Point, New York. The son, Cody McMillan watched helplessly as his father Marty was pulled into the cold water by the anchor line. Mr. McMillan was not wearing a life jacket when he tossed the anchor overboard. The line got tangled around his leg and he was dragged over.

The son fired a flare into the sky and called the Coast Guard. The Mayday call was heard by the USCG at about 9:30 a.m. Sunday morning. Fishing boat Capt. John DeMaio was about a hundred yards away when he heard the call. He rushed over and helped pull the father’s body from the choppy waters.

DeMaio had begun cardiopulmonary resuscitation when the Coast Guard arrived. Marty McMillan was taken back to shore, where he died at Southampton Hospital.

For more on the story click here.

Boat Blaze on the Hudson

2008-12-09T09:24:00.005-05:00

A vessel caught fire this morning Lincoln Harbor Marina in Weehawken, New Jersey, says news station NBC New York. Emergency crews arrived around 7:30 a.m., and although early reports noted one body aboard, subsequent interviews with deputy police chief Jeffrey Fulcher stated no one was injured (the latter is correct). Black smoke billowed over the Hudson River and could be seen for miles. Traffic slowed in the nearby Lincoln Tunnel as drivers watched the flames.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. More information to come.

Charity Cruise for the Holidays

2008-12-08T10:11:00.003-05:00

Yacht owners in Tacoma, Washington, got into the spirit of the holiday season with a Christmas Cruise for charity. According to an article in Tacoma’s News Tribune, dozens of boat owners from two local yacht clubs, as well as the U.S. Army, donated sea time to people with disabilities. Some 200 guests boarded the flotilla in Gig Harbor for a few hours of sightseeing. The largest vessel in the fleet was the Army’s 174-foot Malvern Hill, a landing ship.

The endeavor, which is in its 25th year, cost about $4000; the funds were pooled together by volunteers. For more on the story, click here.

Whale Collisions Mean Speed Restrictions

2008-12-03T10:37:00.006-05:00

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a new regulation to protect North Atlantic right whales. Starting December 9, 2008, all vessels 65 feet (19.8m) or greater (subject to the jurisdiction of the United States) will be subject to a 10-knot speed restriction during certain times and locations, also known as Seasonal Management Areas (SMAs).

Right whales can collide with vessels which potentially results in serious injuries or death. On average, two of these mammals per year suffer from collision-related injuries. The current right whale population only ranges from 300 to 400. Additionally, vessels can be damaged or passengers may lose their footing or even be thrown from a boat during a collision.

All instances of significant vessel damage were reported from vessels traveling faster than 10 knots. Studies suggest that severe injuries to a whale can be decreased when vessel speed is 10 knots or less.

If it is necessary to deviate from the 10-knot speed restriction, the reason, speed, latitude and longitude of the area, and time and duration of the deviation, must be entered into the vessel’s logbook, which must be signed and dated by the vessel’s master.

Nautical charts, a compliance guide, and additional information is available at http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/shipstrike

Splashdown!

2008-12-01T12:15:00.002-05:00

Nordhavn’s 56-foot Motorsailer (see “The Return of the Motorsailer?” July 2008) splashed this week at the company’s headquarters in Dana Point, California. The boat was unloaded in San Diego Harbor after being shipped from it’s construction in Taiwan. The sailing rig will be added later.

According to Jim Leashman, Pacific Asian Enterprise’s chief of design, ““She’s more slippery and sleeker than what we’re used to. With the sailboat underbody she effortlessly and quietly motors along at nine to ten knots.”

The vessel will be make it’s debut at the San Diego Boat Show in February. For more information, visit Nordhavn’s Web site here.

Mumbai Terrorist Attacks Claim Life of Yachting Mogel

2008-11-30T18:01:00.003-05:00

Andreas Liveras, owner of the Liveras Yachts and one of England's richest men, was a victim of the terrorist attacks that took place this past week in Mumbai, India. He was at the Taj Hotel for a meal, according to the BBC. The hotel was one of the primary targets of the terrorists.

Liveras Yachts owns the 280-foot Alysia and 295-foot Lauren L (see PMY's World's 100 Largest Yachts, numbers 27 and 22, respectively). They each charter for around €500,000 a week. More information on his boats is located at the company’s Web site. For more on the story, click here.

He is survived by his four children.

New On The Scene

2008-11-25T10:28:00.004-05:00

Cutting begins on the first steel sheet for the Bandido 148.

The steel megayacht market can now count one more among its members. To mark the event, the Horizon Group held a traditional Chinese ceremony for the start of the construction of the Bandido 148 Explorer Megayacht—a move that brings the boatbuilder into a new era by growing its model lines to include the steel luxury megayacht market. The steel hull and aluminum superstructure will be delivered in 2010.

The latest addition, under construction at Premier Shipyard, is a result of collaboration among the Horizon-Premier team, its dealer Drettman GmbH in German, and designer Juan Carlos Espinosa. Espinosa was tapped to design Horizon's first steel megayacht following the success of the Premier 130 and Bandido 75. The Bandido 148 will meet BV Classification, ICE Class, and MCA LY2 Compliance. The vessel will be powered by twin MTU 12V4000M60 1,800-hp engines, and reach a maximum speed of 15.6 knots, a cruising speed of 12 knots and a range of 4,500 nautical miles. The Bandido 148 will also will feature ABT’s TRAC stabilizers and four 22-square-foot fins driven by TRACSTAR technology will provide stability when at anchor or underway.

The first Bandido 148 Explorer Megayacht will have accommodations for eight guests in four staterooms on the lower deck amidships. Eight crewmembers will be situated in four cabins—with private bathrooms–forward, plus laundry facilities and a crew's lounge. The full-beam master suite with a king-size bed, office, and his and hers bath with a Jacuzzi can be found on the main deck forward. A large galley, full-beam dining saloon and main saloon are also located on the main deck.

Moving to the upper deck you will find the pilothouse and the captain’s stateroom, a large skylounge, an exercise room and a sauna, both which are designed with fold-down balconies. The Bandido 148 will accommodate an atrium staircase connecting all levels plus an expansive flying bridge with spa pool for ten, lounging areas, bar and dining amenities. In addition, the tender will be housed in a garage aft of the engine room and accessed via a hydraulic garage door off the transom.

Tis the Season

2008-11-21T15:53:00.008-05:00

The holidays are upon us, if you can believe it, which means that it's that time of year again. Time for family, time for food, and time for festivities. And for many of us, its also time to reach out and give something back.

Well, it seems that the pre-holiday spirit recently took hold at the Daiwa Corporation: The tackle-manufacturing giant announced it was donating $10,000 to the FishAmerica Foundation."We wish to make this donation in support of FishAmerica's invaluable work in habitat and sport fish restoration," said vp of sales Terry Pederson. "As we and others who have been in this industry for so long realize, our hobby and livelihood could not exist without strong stewardship of our sport fishery."

Now that's a gift that promises to keep on giving...

Change Is in the Air

2008-11-20T13:16:00.000-05:00

Brunswick Corporation is making some strategic organizational moves to strengthen its operations internationally and to ensure the continued integrity and quality of its Hatteras Collection.

William Naumann is taking the role of chairman of the Hatteras Collection, effective immediately. He will be charged with, among other things, leading the efforts to build upon relations with dealers, customers, and suppliers. Naumann retired from Hatteras in 2006. In addition, James Meyer is stepping up to president-Hatteras Collection, replacing Keri Theophilus. Meyer was formerly vice president-product development, supply chain and business integration for the Brunswick Boat Group. Both Naumann and Meyer will report to Dustan E. McCoy, Brunswick's chairman and chief executive officer.

In turn, Theophilus is taking a new assignment in Brunswick International; however, details were not released at this time. He will report to John Pfeifer, president-Brunswick Marine in Europe, Middle East and Asia.

“These actions are a testament to the managerial bench strength and resources we have at our disposal at Brunswick, both from within and outside the company,” McCoy said in a company release announcing the moves. Meyer joined Brunswick in 2006 from the Ford Motor Company. Theophilus, who joined Brunswick in 2007, had most recently worked for Samsung Petrochemicals, a joint venture between BP and Samsung based in Seoul. Naumann, who led Hatteras for nine years, recently had been heading up a number of civic and philanthropic activities in retirement.

Undercover Anglers Nab Non-Compliant Captains

2008-11-19T12:31:00.001-05:00

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has charged Viking Starship Inc. with illegal fishing.

State officers and federal agents posed as patrons aboard charter vessels operating in New Jersey and New York. During these undercover operations, two charter operators, Jerome E. Hurd of Avalon, New Jersey, and Steven N. Forsberg of Montauk, New York, caught striped bass in federal waters with patrons. Forsberg, the owner of the F/V Viking Starship, and Hurd were also charged with submitting false oral or written statements about the catch to authorized federal officers. Forsberg and Hurd were each issued potential fines, $30,000 and $25,000, respectively. For Forsberg, the NOAA mandated a 30-day permit suspension.

Possessing, fishing, and harvesting of Atlantic striped bass, a prized sport fish, is illegal in federal waters, which exist beyond a states’ three-mile offshore boundary. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission have been trying to manage the declining population of striped bass in state waters, and the government banned commercial fishing this valued fish species since 1990.

Sunken Pirates

2008-11-19T11:40:00.003-05:00

An Indian naval vessel, the INS Tabar, stopped a suspected pirate ship off the Coast of Oman. When the officers tried to search the vessel, pirates fired upon them. Guns and rocket-propelled grenade launchers were visible on the upper deck of the pirate’s ship. Once fired upon, the Tabar struck back, which set off explosions onboard, and consequently sank the pirate “mothership.” These motherships are often large vessels, used as bases to strike merchant vessels or to take smaller attack vessels and their pirate crews into deep water shipping lanes.

Following the firefight, the Tabar followed two suspect speedboats in that were originally being towed. One speedboat escaped while the other had been abandoned.

So far this year, 95 ships have been attacked in the Gulf of Aden. Thirty-nine of these have been hijacked. Attacks are spreading farther south off the Kenyan coast and farther north into the Gulf of Aden.

Noel Choong, the head of the Piracy Reporting Center in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia said, “The risks are low and returns are extremely high for these pirates.” Pirates receive millions of dollars in ransom for these acts without the consequences of prosecution. Seventeen of the reportedly hijacked vessels remain in the control of the pirates, along with 300 crew members.

Itchin' to go Fishin'?

2008-11-18T08:56:00.004-05:00

It may be getting cold in many parts of the country, but the Florida Keys is heating up on the fishing front. And to prove it, the 45th-Annual Islamorada Sailfish Tournament will take place next month. So before you pick up that snow shovel, maybe you should pick up a plane ticket and head to the sportfishing capital of the world for a little kite-flying, fish-flying action.

The 45th-Annual Islamorada Sailfish Tournament will kick-off on December 4. Fishing takes place December 5-7. The Islamorada Sailfish Tournament is a light-tackle tournament using 12-pound test line.

Entry fee for the first angler is $600.00 and $500.00 for each additional angler. Junior anglers under the age of 16 can enter for $200.00. All winning anglers and winning crews receive a trophy. The tournament also has trophies for Most Outstanding Catch other than a sailfish, largest tuna, king mackerel and dolphin.

The Whale Harbor Inn and Marina will host the event. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just wish to hook a billfish for thrill of a lifetime, the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament is a great way to do so. The gala awards dinner on Sunday night at Whale Harbor's new Braza Lena Brazilian Steak House culminates with trophies and prizes for the tournament winners.

The Islamorada Sailfish Tournament is the first leg of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship. The The Gold Cup series includes the Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament and the Islamorada Fishing Clubs Sailfish Tournament. The Gold Cup Series has a limited entry of 30 boats. Space is still available for the Gold Cup Series. Check out all the information under Florida Keys Gold Cup at www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com.

The Amazing Dolphin Trick

2008-11-10T10:38:00.003-05:00

We all knew dolphins are playful, but blowing bubbles? And then turning those bubbles into spinning rings? See the footage below:

And here's an explanation someone sent, "these silver rings...are 'air-core vortex rings'. Invisible, spinning vortices in the water are generated from the tip of a dolphin's dorsal fin when it is moving rapidly and turning. When dolphins break the line, the ends are drawn together into a closed ring. The higher velocity fluid around the core of the vortex is at a lower pressure than the fluid circulating farther away. Air is injected into the rings via bubbles released from the dolphin's blowhole. The energy of the water vortex is enough to keep the bubbles from rising for a reasonably few seconds of play time."

She's Baaack! (And Open.)

2008-11-07T12:07:00.004-05:00

For those of you who'll be in or around the Big Apple this weekend, here's something to consider: Tomorrow, after an extensive two-year renovation, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum will reopen its doors to visitors. According to the the museum's Web site, the new and improved facility will include interactive exhibits, restored aircraft, dry-docking, a paint job for the former USS Intrepid, and more. Plus, the first 1,000 visitors will get a coin commemorating the ship's return. The museum opens just in time for Veterans Day (Tuesday, November 11th) when it will host a ceremony that's slated to be attended by President George W. Bush, New York Governor David Paterson, and some 2,500 veterans.

Bid On A Boat

2008-11-07T11:23:00.004-05:00

For those boaters with some cash to spare and buying a boat on their mind, there may never be a better time to find the vessel of your dreams. And there are many ways to do so: brokers are offering great incentives to purchase late-model inventory and used boats are everywhere.

But there is another place to find great boat deals, too : www.yachtauctions.com. This Web site is dedicated to selling boats via bid. The vessels for sale are acquired through repossession, salvage, and some are brokerage product.

The inventory list is updated every week, with bidding ending every Monday. Just visit the site and you can bid on anything from the 23-foot Gray White and 39-foot Topaz pictured here to the 515-foot passenger ship as well. Happy boat shopping.

Allied Marine

2008-11-05T10:29:00.006-05:00

Ferretti Yachts recently procured an esteemed boat dealer, Allied Richard Bertram Marine Group, an acquisition which will enable the Italian yacht company to sell directly to U.S. buyers.

The recently established company, Allied Marine, intends to sell American-made Tiara yachts in addition to Ferretti's nine lines of luxury yachts.

Previously, MarineMax was Ferretti's sole U.S. dealer, and as the country's largest boat dealer, it provided stability in a declining economy. Ferretti's contract with MarineMax expired this year, they chose to not renew.

MarineMax's general manager, Bob Fritsky, stated that it will direct more focus towards selling luxury yachts from another reputable Italian builder, Azimut.

The new president of Allied Marine, Rob McDougal, recognizes that it is an arduous time to become a dealer, but is ultimately optimistic and enthused about "providing a higher level of service and being closer to the customer."

Hybrid Discount

2008-10-30T10:05:00.002-04:00

As boaters continue to search for ways to beat see sawing gas prices and, at the same time, become more eco-friendly, their efforts are now being met with at least one reward. Travelers offers the industry’s first hybrid boat insurance discount—up to 10% on hybrid boat and yacht insurance. “Hybrid vessels are using the latest, state-of-the-art technology in the marine industry,” says Chantal Cyr, vice president of the Boat and Yacht Division for Travelers.

The move comes as several versions of hybrid boats enter marinas around the world, including the Island Pilot DSe Hybrid, which is currently making its debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. “Travelers marine specialists thoroughly reviewed the functionality and operation of hybrid boats currently in the marketplace,” adds Cyr. “Our research suggests boat manufacturers will begin incorporating hybrid designs into different models to provide a hybrid option similar to what’s taking place in the automotive industry.”

Travelers defines hybrid boats as those with an integrated propulsion system that incorporates both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor in its original design. For more on hybrid boats, and an in-depth look at the Island Pilot DSe Hybrid, look for Power & Motoryacht’s special January Engines Issue.

It’s Officially for Megayachts

2008-10-29T10:17:00.006-04:00

Megayacht owners now have a new port of call on the West Coast with the Port of San Diego’s official launch of its megayacht mooring facility along San Diego's bayfront Embarcadero. Situated on more than 200,000 square feet of water between the Grape Street piers and the San Diego Maritime Museum, the facility offers up to eight spots for megayachts between 100 and 400 feet.

This past summer, the Port of San Diego’s board of commissioners awarded a two-year lease to San Diego Mooring Company to manage the facility. The deal runs through June 30, 2010 and during the two-year lease the Port will issue a Request for Proposals to secure a long-term operator.

The official launch comes six months after the formation of the San Diego Superyacht Association (SDSA), a coalition of maritime-related companies that serve the local large-yacht industry. Its mission: To spread the word that San Diego is a world-class megayacht destination and to act as a conduit to marine services and suppliers. Several factors lend to San Diego’s emergence as a megayacht destination, including its year-round temperate climate similar to the Mediterranean, its West Coast location, and the growth of local world-class yacht repair facilities and marine support firms.

Photo Courtesy Wikipedia: Port of San Diego Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal

Man Kills Boaters, Faces Death Penalty

2008-10-22T11:40:00.003-04:00

Former child actor, Skylar Deleon, was found guilty of killing Tom and Jackie Hawks for their life savings and $500,000 boat. Deleon faces the death penalty.

In the opening statements, defense lawyers stated that Deleon was guilty, a strategy to avoid the death penalty.

Deleon, who had a small, non-speaking role in one episode of “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers,” joined the Hawks’ aboard their boat for a “test run,” since he pretended to be a prospective buyer. He was joined by John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Alonso Machain – the three men overwhelmed the couple, forcing them into handcuffs and sealing their eyes and mouths with duct tape. Then, the couple was coerced to sign title transfer documents for the 55-foot yacht, named “Well Deserved.” Afterwards, the men tied the victims to an anchor, and dropped the anchor into the sea. The bodies were never recovered.

When initially pursued by the Newport Beach Police, Deleon stated that the Hawks sold him the yacht for $440,000. The truth of the homicides emerged once one of his accomplices confessed.

New Direction

2008-10-21T10:04:00.005-04:00

Admittedly, this video of the new SolarStar 21 isn’t the most heart-pounding footage you’ve seen, but it’s interesting for another reason. Solar Star International has teamed up with Kachina, who has been building high-octane racing boats for 45 years, to develop this fully-electric boat (i.e.: fossil-fuel free). The vessel is being built in Arizona, and should be available for purchase this upcoming January. No word yet on her top speed. For more information, visit Kachina’s Web site.

Batman Boat Stops Smugglers

2008-10-20T11:26:00.002-04:00

What does the Navy do with a $6-million boat? Well, according on article on Gizmodo.com, it petrifies drug runners with it. After a two-hour chase, part of which was over 5-foot-deep flats, the Navy apprehended the drug runners when they ran out of fuel. On their capture, the befuddled criminals said, “it was like being chased by a UFO.”
The futuristic design by builder M Ship Co. uses a proprietary method for reusing the bow wave to create an air cushion between the sponsons in order to achieve less drag while running, her Web site says. She measures 80-feet LOA, with a 40-foot beam with a draft on merely three feet. The carbon-fiber hull has a purported top speed of 60 knots.

QE2 Retires

2008-10-16T16:27:00.002-04:00

The New York Times reported today that the QE2 made her last visit to New York after nearly 40 years of transatlantic service. She reached her berth at pier 90 in Manhattan at 6:00 AM Thursday morning, initiating her 710th visit to the Big Apple. The Cunard line has sold the QE2 to investors from the United Arab Emirates, who will make a hotel out of her in Dubai. The four-year old Queen Mary 2, which is more than twice long as the QE2, was followed her predecessor into New York Harbor. For the full article, which has lots of information on the historic QE2, click here.

Luhrs 37

2008-10-15T10:24:00.004-04:00

The Luhrs 37 Open premieres at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, and can be seen there from October 30th to November 3rd. The builder claims the vessel has the industry's first full-size guest stateroom in an open sportfisherman under 40 feet.

Her design yields spaciousness - the 37 has an open cockpit, a bridge deck suitable for eight people, and a commodious galley and main saloon.

The Luhrs 37 comes in two power versions, the standard Volvo Penta IPS and the optional triple Yamaha F350 V-8 gasoline outboards. Both are practical for fuel and space-savings.

Flipper, the Heavyweight

2008-10-15T10:10:00.013-04:00

"Yeah, it was throwing some good punches. Mike Tyson couldn’t hit harder than that.”

Surprisingly, the above statement, which comes from 64-year old Norman Howard, is about a dolphin. Last Thursday, near New Smyrna Beach, Florida, a 400-pound dolphin plunged into an 18-foot boat, and landed on top of Howard and his wife's laps, injuring both with blows from his massive tail.

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued the bloodied passengers after witnesses called 911. Both Norman and his wife, Barbara, were treated for facial lacerations at Bert Fish Medical Center. Norman also suffered from abdominal injuries. The dolphin was eventually rolled back into the Intracoastal Waterway.

Between last week's shark brawl and this week's dolphin sucker punch, one can only hope that by next week, nobody ends up in a half nelson with a whale.

Deadliest Ale

2008-10-14T14:14:00.004-04:00

As I've mentioned before, I am an unabashed fan of a couple of boat-related reality shows. I loved America's Port, and I loooove the Discovery Channel's Deadliest Catch. Nothing helps me get through a gym visit like tuning in on my treadmill's TV and watching those fishermen hunt down crab in the Bering Sea. And, I'm not alone. The Deadliest Catch is so popular that it has spawned a whole lotta merchandise—video games, books, t-shirts, and more. Well, here's a new one: Captain Sig Hansen, one of the show's stars, has partnered with Rogue Ales to create his very own Deadliest Ale. Designed to complement the flavors of his Alaskan King and Opelia crab, the ale will come in 22 oz bottles and will be sold in Alaska, Texas, Florida, and more. A portion of the proceeds of the ale will be given to the Fisherman's fund, a non-profit foundation established by the Hansen family.

King of the...Water?

2008-10-14T09:14:00.009-04:00

Everyone knows that the lion is the king of the jungle. But does that mean the sea lion is the king of the, well, sea? Apparently the sea lions on the West Coast believe if the crown fits, wear it.

According to an Associated Press report in today’s The Tribune in San Luis Obispo, California, sea lions are taking over boat landings, swamping boats and even using the vessels as their own litter boxes at Port San Luis in the Avila Beach area. The creatures, which can weigh in at a hefty 550 pounds, are also the prime suspects in the sinking of three boats. Harbor manager Steve McGrath said that the sea lions are attracted to smaller boats moored in the harbor. It takes only a few of the creatures piling onto a sailboat to sink it.

But the Port San Luis area is not the only one under siege. National Marine Fisheries biologist Garth Griffin said sea lions are posing similar problems along the coast, from Baja California to British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

Picture Perfect

2008-10-10T14:23:00.007-04:00

Quantum Of Solace © 2008 Danjaq, United Artists, CPII. 007 TM and related James Bond Trademarks, TM Danjaq.

It may not be the red carpet, but the Sunseeker Superhawk 43 gets her shot at the bright lights when she appears in the new James Bond flick, Quantum of Solace. The movie hits the big screen on Oct. 31 in the United Kingdom.

The Sunseeker Superhawk 43 enters the spotlight in a lead role in a boat chase sequence, which was filmed on location in Panama in March. But she is not the only Sunseeker to have a role in Quantum of Solace. The Sunseeker Sovereign 17, one of the company’s first open-cockpit speedboats, is used to transport James Bond, played again by Daniel Craig. The Sunseeker 37 Metre Yacht M4 also makes an appearance in the film.

This is not the first time Sunseeker models have made it to Hollywood: five others have appeared in the previous three James Bond movies. Casino Royal (2006) featured the 108 Predator with appearances from the XS 2000 and Sportsfish 37; Halle Berry climbed aboard a Superhawk 48 in Die Another Day (2002); and a Superhawk 34 sped down the River Thames in The World is Not Enough (1999).

Not be outdone, Sunseeker International’s managing director Robert Braithwaite CBE appears as a speedboat captain onboard one of the models with 007 himself. In the scene, filmed on location in Italy in April, Braithwaite is on the Sunseeker Sovereign 17—the first boat he ever built.

“For everyone at Sunseeker, it’s very rewarding to be involved in Quantum of Solace and once again see our British-built motoryachts appear alongside Britain’s most famous secret agent,” Braithwaite said.

Fishing On Jupiter

2008-10-08T12:50:00.002-04:00

The Jupiter team premiered the first model of its new sportfishing line, the Jupiter 39 Express. With input from naval architect Donald Blount and Associates, the builder endowed their first express-style boat with a large bridge deck and a full cabin suitable for six people, which makes it particularly ideal for cruising excursions.

Solid teak-and-maple floors line the cabin’s interior, while stowage spaces and a bar unit grace the boat’s main deck.

Her cockpit bears a custom hardtop and marlin tower, extra rod holders, and a bait-prep center complete with a transom-mounted livewell, and freezer.

This 39-footer is also fuel efficient as she is expressly suitable for the new Yamaha 350-hp, V-8, four-stroke gasoline outboard engines in either Twin- or triple-engine applications.

The USS NY, a Symbol of Recovery

2008-10-08T10:53:00.002-04:00

In approximately one year, New York City will commission a transport ship built from steel remnants of the World Trade Center, the USS New York. This ceremony will officially proclaim this warship as a unit of the operating forces of the US Navy.

In 2002, New York Governor George Pataki requested a rare exception for the warship’s name, he sought to name a surface vessel after the attacked city, despite the upheld tradition of granting state names exclusively to submarines. The Secretary of the Navy Gordon England obliged the appeal. The USS New York bears its name in honor of the victims of 9/11.

The Navy and shipyard evaluated the recovered steel and determined that it was strong enough to be used in the design of the vessel. Twenty-four tons of steel was melted for her construction; seven tons were used for the bow stem, the foremost section of the ship, officially completed in August 2005.

The 684-foot-long USS New York is still under construction in New Orleans at the Northrop Grumman Ships Systems. This company is America’s exclusive builder and designer of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, and one of only two builders of nuclear-powered submarines.

The USS New York is the fifth amphibious transport ship in the LPD 17 San Antonio class. Like others within this class, she has a Colt-Pielstick PC2.5 STC engine, which facilitates high propulsion power. Despite her name, she’s planned to be based in Norfolk, VA.

The naming ceremony took place in Manhattan’s Intrepid, Sea Air & Space Museum, back in 2002. New York Veterans, representatives from New York’s police and fire departments, as well as victim’s families were invited. In late 2009, the vessel which honors the collective bravery of New Yorkers, loss of friends and family, and a nation’s fortitude will be admitted into the naval forces.

Father, son survivors off to Disney

2008-10-04T09:24:00.006-04:00

Last week, a father and son who survived 12 hours in the open ocean without life jackets went to DisneyWorld, the place they say is responsible for their incredible story.

When Walter Marino, 46, and his 12-year-old autistic son Christopher, were pulled out to sea by a riptide at Daytona Beach last month, the pair stayed in contact by yelling to each other lines from the Disney movie Toy Story.

“To infinity!” Walter would shout. “And beyond!” his son would reply.

The pair kept repeating the phrase as night fell and until they drifted so far apart they could no longer hear each other. When Walter Marino was rescued in the morning by fisherman, he believed his son was lost. But, incredibly, Coast Guard rescuers found the boy alive.

After the pair recovered, Disney officials invited them to Orlando, as special guests of Buzz Lightyear, the character whose catchphrase helped save their lives.

Homecoming Queen

2008-10-02T15:45:00.006-04:00

At 11 a.m. Thursday the USS Intrepid bid farewell to the Homeport on Staten Island and began her three-hour voyage home to Pier 86 in Manhattan.

The World War II aircraft carrier made her historic journey with the help of four tug boats. On her way she paused to salute the Statue of Liberty and Ground Zero, where crewmembers unfurled a 60-by-40-foot American flag from the starboard side.

The USS Intrepid left Pier 86, her home for 24 years, in 2006 for extensive repairs and improvements. The work totaled approximately $120 million. The Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum is slated to open its doors to visitors on November 8.

For the full story, see the Associated Press.

A Jab to Jaws

2008-10-01T11:10:00.005-04:00

Jake, a rat terrier, was attacked last Friday afternoon by a shark during his daily swim in the Worldwide Sportsman’s Bayside Marina pier in Islamorada, Florida. The five-foot shark surfaced and captured almost all 14 pounds of the terrier in its mouth. The dog’s owner, carpenter Greg Lenoir, witnessed this scene and immediately bolted into the water, and punched the shark, who then released the dog.

Despite punctured skin and muscle on his abdomen, chest, back, and legs, Jake is expected to make a full recovery.

More Monster Marinas

2008-09-30T13:41:00.009-04:00

Back in our May issue, we told you about a few of the new megayacht marinas that are currently cropping up (or are at least slated to crop up) around the world. Well, here's another one to add to your list. In late 2009, Island Global Yachting (IGY) will reportedly open a massive, dedicated megayacht marina in Dubai. And not just anywhere in the UAE, but on both the west and east sides of the Palm Jumeirah's trunk. (The Palm Jumeirah one of the government-owned, artificial islands that's shaped as a massive palm tree. It has 17 fronds.) When completed, IGY's Anchor Marina should feature some 700 berths, concrete pontoons to ensure stability (and thus guests' comfort), and a 24-hour concierge service.

Rising to the Occasion

2008-09-26T09:32:00.005-04:00

Here is a series of neat images capturing Vango rising in the Ballard locks transiting from Puget Sound to Lake Washington in Seattle. Thanks to Dave Genisman for the images. To find out more about Vango, check out America's 100 Largest Yachts in our November issue. She comes in at no. 81.

Making Her Debut

2008-09-25T09:43:00.006-04:00

The boating scene has a new member—a 101'6" enclosed bridge motoryacht custom built by Burger Boat Company. Fully ABS certified, the Tò-Kalòn sports strong, lightweight materials and carefully calculated design and engineering parameters. Her interior features Sapele paneling with accents of Sapele Pomele, which flows throughout the main deck saloon and guest accommodations. A hard-to-miss feature is the centrally located open spiral staircase. Suspended in front of three full-length windows, the staircase was built from select Sapele veneers and hardwoods accented by custom brass balustrade with antique bronze finish supporting the Sapele hardwood handrail.

Rivaling the spiral staircase, which ascends from the owner’s accommodations to the skylounge and pilothouse, Tò-Kalòn’s skylounge showcases leather Chesterfield sofas and a domed ceiling, which was painted by a New York artist win a motif embracing the yacht’s name.

And not to worry, this American beauty is staying true her roots—she was built for a U.S. yachting family.

Driver Survives Wicked Crash

2008-09-24T09:37:00.004-04:00

The Associated Press offered up this footage of a driver losing control of his boat last week in San Diego while preparing for a race in Mission Bay.

To the Rescue

2008-09-18T09:44:00.005-04:00

“Prepare for docking.” Those three words were music to my clogged ears. Because of a cold accompanied by flu-like symptoms I found myself on the 11:30 a.m. Sen. John J. Marchi ferry boat leaving Manhattan for Staten Island (and my bed) on Tuesday. With the dock in sight, I rose from my seat and joined my fellow midday riders at the front of the boat. Looking out the window with dreams of my cold-remedy-filled medicine cabinet dancing through my head I noticed something odd. Was the boat going in reverse or was my mind playing tricks on me? When the ferry started turning in a circle I knew it was no trick...at least not one I found amusing.

Within seconds a voice came over the public address system informing us that the ferry was being delayed. A mile from the dock...so close yet so far. Before long chatter arose about a woman in the water. Coast guard boats and an NYPD helicopter converged on the area. Did the woman jump from the ferry? Was she pushed? Is she OK? So many questions swirled among the passengers. Less than ten minutes later (eight, to be exact), the voice from above came over the public address system to let us know the ferry was involved in a successful rescue operation. Applause rose from the crowd and we continued on our way to the Staten Island ferry terminal in St. George.

Later that day the rescue mission was recounted on the five o’clock news. It goes like this: As the Sen. John J. Marchi ferry boat was a mile from the Staten Island terminal the captain, through his binoculars, spotted a woman in the water. He immediately alerted authorities and dispatched two deckhands in a ferry rescue craft. The two deckhands reached the woman, pulled her into their boat—as she gasped for air—and brought her to land. Emergency officials met the rescue craft at the ferry terminal and transported the woman to a local hospital. Surveillance cameras later revealed the woman jumped into the New York Harbor from a Staten Island pier as the ferry was closing in on shore. The eagle eyes of the captain and the quick response of the ferry employees saved this woman’s life.

According to the two deckhands, ferry employees practice rescue drills once a week. And practice makes perfect...eight minutes perfect.

Photo courtesy of New York City Department of Transportation Web site.

Newport: Vicem V52 Video

2008-09-17T12:26:00.008-04:00

The Turkish builder Vicem had its new V52 on display at Newport. This hull doesn’t have the flying bridge (see below) but it does come with the optional twin 800-hp Cummins diesel inboards (640-hp power plants are standard). The company states that her WOT speed is around 30 knots, while she should cruise at 25 knots.

As with the Sabre video I posted earlier, the camera work is rough, but it gives you a feel for the interior layout. For better videos, check out Vicem’s Web site.

The Passing of Olin Stephens

2008-09-17T09:57:00.006-04:00

The legendary naval architect, whose designs changed the face of yachting, passed away this past Saturday in Hanover, NH. Stephens celebrated his 100 birthday on April 13th, and was the senior member of the New York Yacht Club.

His work in the yachting community (both in sail and in power) was beyond exceptional; he designed eight America’s Cup winners including the famous Dorade, which lit off the success of the Sparkman & Stephens design firm (see our article “Engineering Tradition“). He retired from the firm in 1978 and moved to Hanover, NH, where he continued his studies of fluid dynamics, and occasional guest lectured in Dartmouth College’s engineering department.

He is survived by his sons, Olin Stephens III and Samuel R. Stephens; his sister, Marite Sheridan; and his grandson, Olin J. Stephens IV. He will be missed by the entire yachting community.

Newport: Sabre 38 Hardtop Express Video

2008-09-16T17:00:00.005-04:00

Here's a video of the Sabre 38 Hardtop Express that I shot it Newport. The camera work is shaky, but you should get a good feel for the boat—enjoy:

Newport: Sabre 38 Hardtop Express

2008-09-16T14:34:00.004-04:00

The 21,500-pound vessel was launched in Maine earlier this year, and made her public debut in Newport. She sports two standard 380-hp Yanmar 6LY3A-UTP diesels, a ZF 220-A transmission, and four-blade nibral wheels to help propel her through the water. Teleflex hydraulic steering and Bennett trim tabs comprise her steering and trim systems, respectively. A deep-V planning hull with shallow prop pockets combined with a 16-degree deadrise should help her performance, and her 38’6” LOA means you probably won’t have trouble finding room for her at your local marina. You can learn more at Sabre's Web site, and while you're there, check out the new 42 Express—another head-turning Downeast boat.

Newport: Hinckley 37T Picnic Boat

2008-09-16T14:03:00.013-04:00

The United States boat-show season is underway. Our first stop: Newport. Here are some first looks at some of the newest boats coming your way:

Hinckley 37T Picnic Boat
The Maine-based builder has updated its trademarked Picnic Boat with the new 37T, giving buyers another fine way to take wicker baskets and tables clothes to their favorite coastal islands. The vessel has a 38’7” LOA, 11’3” beam, and a 2’11” draft thanks to her twin HJ274 Hamilton jet drives. Hinckley estimates that she has a 32-knot top speed and cruises around 28 knots. She holds 220 gallons of fuel and 35 gallons of fresh water.

When Fish Fly

2008-09-15T15:59:00.009-04:00

"The fish are jumping, but not in a good way." So explains a fascinating—and frightening—article by Dan Barry in The New York Times. It seems that Asian carp—a highly invasive species of fish—are wreaking havoc on the Illinois River. The local carp population has grown exponentially, which is bad news for the area's native species and for commercial and recreational boaters. You see, the carp perceive boats as predators and respond by flinging their bodies into the air. The result is a terrifying popcorn-effect: scads of carp hurling themselves out of the water and regularly smacking boat operators in the torso and face.

Because the Illinois is part of a series of waterways that connect Lake Michigan to the Gulf of Mexico, there are serious concerns that these dangerous jumpers will invade the Great Lakes. So much so that according to The Times, the Army Corps of Engineers is expanding an underwater electrical barrier it previously built in Romeoville, Illinois. The barrier sends out currents intended to keep the carp (and other species) from making their way to Lake Michigan.

TWIC at FLIBS

2008-09-15T13:41:00.007-04:00

The Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) deadline is approaching (April 15th, 2009), and it’s time to get registered. If you’re attending this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, it should be easy.

The not-for-profit MIASF (Marine Industries Association of South Florida) is registering licensed captains for their TWIC cards at this year's show. The cost is $132.50 per person (same as the government price), and should only take a few minutes if you pre-register. You can do that here or by calling 1-866-347-TWIC (8942).

If you’ve got a license, you need to get a TWIC card. To make sure there is no confusion about what MIASF is offering, I’ve pasted their press release below.

Fort Lauderdale, FL (September 15, 2008) - During this year's 49th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) will host a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) Enrollment Center. The purpose of the Center is to facilitate registration of United States Coast Guard (USCG) licensed mariners and others who are required by recent changes in USCG regulations to have a TWIC and to also serve as a source of information and outreach for the program.

Marine Industries Association of South Florida, owners of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, recognized the important opportunity the world's largest boat show offers and is working in collaboration with the USCG to organize the enrollment center that will be located in the Marine Professionals, Inc. (MPI) headquarters in the South West corner of the Seabreeze building at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center. The EnrollmentCenter will open on Wednesday, October 29th through Sunday November 2nd from 10 am to 6 pm and on Monday November 3rd from 10 am to 4 pm.

TWIC is an identification credential for all personnel requiring unescorted access to secure areas of Maritime Transportation Security Administration (MTSA)-regulated facilities and vessels, and all United States mariners holding Coast Guard-issued credentials. "All U.S. Licensed merchant mariners need to get a TWIC regardless if they access a port or a secure facility," says Steve Krivdo, Port Security Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard. "Many licensed mariners don't realize they need to get the TWIC." The TWIC compliance date for mariners and facilities located within the U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port Zone of Miami, which encompasses the Northern Keys to Fort Pierce, is January 13, 2009.

The cost of the TWIC is $132.50 and is payable by Credit Card, Money Order or Certified Check. Pre-registration is encouraged as it will reduce the enrollment process to approximately 10 minutes when the applicant is prepared with approved identification.

Those mariners planning to utilize the FLIBS TWIC Enrollment Center are encouraged to visit
Transportation Worker Identification Credential or call 1-866-347-TWIC (8942) and take advantage of the pre-enrollment opportunity.

The MIASF is a not-for-profit marine trade organization created in 1961 to promote and protect the sound growth of the marine industry in South Florida for the benefit and education of its members, the community and the environment. The Association has 850 members in Broward, Dade and Palm Beach Counties and is the owner of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

Viking's Latest and Largest

2008-09-11T14:06:00.004-04:00

Viking Yachts has launched its largest sportfisherman to date, an 82-footer destined to prowl the deep.

This battlewagon sports more than 21 feet of beam and 235 square feet of cockpit space, which includes mezzanine seating. Her girth enables the builder to provide a wide-open saloon with teak joinery throughout the interior. There's an L-shape here with stowage below as well as a 52-inch plasma TV, which rises from cabinetry on the starboard side. In addition, galley countertops are all done in granite. The 82 features four staterooms, plus a private crew quarters.

Other features include cockpit misters, built-in under-mount freezers, tackle and gear stowage, insulated fiberglass livewells, fish wells, and stowage, all of which are equipped with stainless steel gas strut supports.

The flying bridge has a center helm console, which is outfitted with three Murray Products ladderback helm chairs. Steering is power-assisted hydraulic with electronic engine controls and trolling valves.

The Viking 82 Convertible is powered with MTU Series 2000 diesels and should cruise around 30 knots (34.5 mph) and a top end around the mid-30-knot range (40 mph).

Sunreef 70 Powercat

2008-09-10T14:47:00.009-04:00

Sunreef Yachts in Gdansk, Poland, recently launched its first powercat, a resin-infused 70-footer.

According to the builder, this catamaran can be powered by twin 870-hp diesels engines, which should help the vessel top out at 30 knots (34.5 mph). However, if you're into long-range cruising, the 70 can also be outfitted with smaller 370-hp diesels, which provide a cruise speed of 12 knots(13.8 mph). Her range at 15 knots is said to be 4,000 NM.

This cruiser sports more than 500 square feet of living space as well as a sizable flying bridge, which, in addition to an upper helm (there's a lower helm, too), offers areas for lounging and dining. The cockpit is the centerpiece of the 70's entertaining space with 320 square feet of party platform.

There's also a lounge with a bar, and a staircase leads to the galley and guest cabins within the hulls.

Shark Gives Surfer Free Ride

2008-09-09T10:46:00.006-04:00

An Australian surfer working the waves accidentally hitched a ride with a shark. Somehow, the ten-foot-long sharp-toothed sea creature (species unknown) got caught up in the line that attached the surfer's ankle to his board. As a result, the toothy critter, now turned tow boat, started dragging the surprised man out to sea, rapidly.

According to a report from the Associated Press, "John Morgan, a 51-year-old surf shop owner from the east coast tourist town of Byron Bay, compared his terrifying 170-foot ride off a local beach to being towed by a jet ski."

Shortly after the unexpected thrill ride started, the shark was freed from the line and disappeared into the depths, the report states.

Guilty (?!)

2008-09-04T11:48:00.007-04:00

There are many adjectives that can—and no doubt will—be used to describe Guilty, the 114-foot megayacht of Greek billionaire and art collector, Dakis Joannou. Inconspicuous is not one of them.

Jonnaou commissioned American artist Jeff Koons, he of the towering balloon animal sculptures and basketballs suspended in plexiglass, to design the exterior of his yacht. Though her name comes from a Sarah Morris text painting that hangs in one of her staterooms, Guilty's pattern is, according to Koons, inspired by WWI camouflage patterns. No matter what your opinion of her looks, I'm confident we can all agree that this take takes onboard art to a whole new level...

Gemini 52 SuperSport-Meilahn Custom Yachts

2008-08-29T10:33:00.008-04:00

There's a new (power)cat on the block.

Stuart, Florida-based Meilahn Custom Yachts will launch its Gemini SuperSport Powercat line at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, October 29-November 3.

The builder says, "The idea was to build an American-made shallow-draft vessel, customized to each buyer’s wishes, with a power-cat hull system offering zero interruption to the interior design with a wider than usual beam."

The 52-footer sports 52'0" LOA with a 19'3" beam. Her girth enables a two-stateroom, two-head layout with a full galley, and a saloon that seats up to eight guests. Topside there's a dinette area for six, dual helm hairs, expansive cockpit seating for many and a hot-tub.

Her propulsion system utilizes two Arneson Surface Drives (ASD 12), powered by two turbo-charged Yanmar 900-hp diesels. The builder reports that the Gemini 52 can reach cruising speeds between 27 and 45 mph at 1800 to 2200 rpm, with a top speed over 50 mph at 2400 rpm.

The 52's exterior and interior design comes courtesy of well-known designer Steve French and his company, Applied Concepts Unleashed. Her hull and superstructure is built of composite fiberglass, corecell, and carbon fiber.

The Gemini 52 SuperSport can be found in Slip # G-730 at the Lauderdale Show. The company says it plans to build its line of yachts up to 91 feet.

Save Our Reefs

2008-08-28T13:35:00.007-04:00

The Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL)—an international organization dedicated soley to saving the world's coral reefs—recently announced it will be partnering with Leisure Pro, an online purveyor of all things scuba and snorkeling related. Leisure Pro has agreed to help draw attention to the plight of coral reefs by agreeing to no longer sell fish food. You see, feeding fish can have decidedly deleterious effects on coral reefs. It alters predator-prey relationships, and thus (to put it crudely), mucks with delicate food chains and ecosystems. This can be particularly problematic when divers feed algae grazers, who in turn eat less algae, which can then smother a coral reef. To help draw attention to CORAL’s “Take a Bite out of Fish Feeding Campaign,” Leisure Pro has promised that any shoppers who donate at least $10 with their next online purchase will receive CORAL’s 2009 calendar.

Big Squall, Bigger Fish

2008-08-27T08:13:00.007-04:00

When the crew of MJ's headed out during the recent Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Tournament, these anglers went looking for that leaderboard-leading fish. Well, they did that: a 129-pound tuna to be exact,which secured the team first place in that division. But the catch wasn't without some challenges. You see, just as the fish hit the squall line you see here descended upon MJ's. The result was a fish battle during 60-mph winds and rain. In the end, the crew weathered the storm and nabbed the tuna, the crew's fourth first-place finish in seven years at this event.

Pirates Rob Yacht in the Med

2008-08-25T11:15:00.005-04:00

It’s not a powerboat, but it’s still worth mentioning. According to RTL, a French Web site, the 55-meter sailing yacht Tiara was robbed at gunpoint last night in Corsica. Reports say that four masked men sneaked aboard the vessel and got away with around €138,000 (roughly $203,600). Here’s the link to the translated story. More on the story can be found here at the Super Yacht Times.

Delivery Men Make Mistake

2008-08-25T09:23:00.004-04:00

Here’s an unfortunate accident that made for some dramatic pictures. A brand new Sealine 37 was on its way from Southampton, England to Ireland but never reached the Emerald Isle. Instead, the delivery crew of two hit a ledge at 16 knots, holing the hull. The crew was unhurt, and subsequently rescued, but the brand new 37 was not so lucky. The Falmouth Lifeboat Station attempted to tow the Sealine to a nearby beach, but the vessel sunk before it made it to the shore. The owner had yet to set foot on his American-made vessel.

As for the crew, an official from the Lifeboat Station had this to say, according to the Daily Mail paper, “They didn't hang around and they got the first bus to Southampton and looked very worried.” I bet. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.

Abandoned Ships

2008-08-24T11:14:00.004-04:00

Among all the damage it's caused, Tropical Storm Fay also took a toll on several long-forgotten boats.

Numerous reports have surfaced of abandoned boats breaking loose from their moorings and either floating away or sinking on the spot. These wrecks can pose an obvious threat to marine safety, as a TCPalm.com reporter put it: “With a storm surge and 50 knots of wind, a poorly moored sloop can quickly be converted into a waterborne bulldozer. In a few hours it can sweep through a waterway wiping out docks, seawalls, other vessels and in rare cases, bridges.”

But now the Florida Fish and Wildlife Service says it will “exhaust every attempt” to locate derelict boat owners and prosecute them to the fulllest extent. If you see an abandoned cruiser, you can report it anonymously at 888-404-3922.

Octopi

2008-08-21T13:58:00.006-04:00

We’ve all seen and heard a great deal about Paul Allen’s yacht Octopus over the years. But the other day I stumbled across this video of her on YouTube, and shockingly, it was one I hadn’t seen before. The video shows her passing through the Panama Canal. Note the ship that accompanies her in the lock for a size reference. Will she still be #2 on PMY’s America’s 100 Largest Yachts coming out this November? You’ll have to wait and see…

Here is are two other interesting videos of the 8,000-nm range vessel.

Solar-Powered Hybrid

2008-08-20T14:44:00.007-04:00

Island Pilot has announced its newest model, the DSe Hybrid 12m, will debut in October at this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

The plans have been on the books for years, and we wrote an article on her back in 2006, but now it appears that the electric-motor powered vessel finally exists. The solar array catches the majority of her power, but a diesel genset can give her additional electricity if the clouds have been out too long. You can't walk on the solar panels, but they do double as a bimini to protect your body from the sun's radiation.

Even the dingy’s outboard is electric, recharging from the solar panels of the DSe Hybrid. For more on the vessel, check the boat’s Web site here.

A Mother's Love

2008-08-18T12:27:00.009-04:00

We have all read stories about animals acting as surrogate mothers to other animals. Case in point, this past spring a mixed-breed farm dog pinch-hit for a missing mom to newborn tiger triplets in China. And it wasn’t her first foray into surrogacy. But now the search for a mother figure has reached a new level. In Sydney, Australia a baby humpback whale has mistaken a yacht for its mommy...even going as far as trying to suckle from the yacht! Rescuers are on the case, towing the yacht out to sea in the hopes that the humpback calf will follow and eventually find its real mommy. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Big Blue

2008-08-18T12:09:00.006-04:00

A pending North Carolina Atlantic Blue Marlin record was caught by angler Trey Irvine onboard the Mimi last week. Capt. Paul Spencer ( Spencer Yachts) was the helm.

The massive 1,228.50-pound Atlantic Blue Marlin was weighed in at Pirate's Cove Marina during its annual billfish tournament.

When certified, this catch will eclipse the 1,142 pounder caught by Jack Herrington in 1974. The world record Atlantic Blue Marlin weighing 1,402.20-pounder was caught in Brazil in 1992.

Best 4x4 By Far

2008-08-13T12:18:00.007-04:00

Need a new exploration toy to match your yacht? The car manufacturer Land Rover and Edmiston yacht brokerage have joined forces to make a special edition 4x4 SUV.

Seven top yacht designers competed in the contest: Martin Francis, Redman Whiteley Dixon, Terrence Disdale, Andrew Winch, Tim Heywood, Ken Freivokh, and Bannenberg. The winning car will be announced and displayed at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show. If a buyer wants one of the other designs, he or she can purchase them as well. Prices are predicted range from $300,000 to $1.2 million depending on the design and options. For more on the story, click here.

Pirates! (Of a Different Kind)

2008-08-13T09:42:00.007-04:00

If you're a movie buff in addition to being a boat buff, mark your 2009 calendar for The Boat That Rocked, a film about pirate radio in the 1960's.

Not familiar with pirate radio? Picture a boat or ship of any kind, anchored off the coast and broadcasting illegally to thousands, even millions, of people back on land. It's the ultimate thumbing of the nose to the establishment of corporate- or even government-run radio, and 40-odd years ago in England, plenty of pirate radio stations broadcast to a reported 25 million people. The Boat That Rocked follows Quentin, who operated Radio Rock in the middle of the North Sea and had quite the crazy mix of DJs.

The impressive cast includes Philip Seymour Hoffman, Emma Thompson, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy, and others. Filming wrapped up in June; no specific release date set, so keep checking the link above for updates.

Desert Sand on the Sea

2008-08-06T09:36:00.003-04:00

That's 157 feet of yacht sliding down the ways at International Shipyards Ancona (ISA). Alexandar V was launched under a hot morning sun, to great fanfare: After a shower of white confetti came down, hundreds of white and silver balloons were released into the sky.

And why not? Even the yacht's exterior color scheme celebrates being different: Her hull is painted desert sand, and her superstructure is a creamy oyster white. And inside ebony, maple, teak, and multiple marbles set a modern scene.

Powered by twin MTU 12V4000 M70s, the steel-hulled Alexandar V should achieve a 15.5-knot cruise speed and 16.7-knot top speed. After sea trials, she'll be delivered to her owner so that he and his family can enjoy the waning weeks of summer. Then she'll make her formal debut at the Monaco Yacht Show.

Expat...Fish?

2008-08-05T15:44:00.005-04:00

With summer in full swing, the waters in and around the Northeast are awash with recreational anglers in search of their next big catch. Well, according to an interesting article in The New York Times, said fishermen—particularly those who fish off the coast of Long Island—might come upon more unusual species than they'd anticipated. According to the article, small tropical fish are being carried by the Gulf Stream from the Florida Keys and the Bahamas and deposited in coves and eelgrass beds off the Northeast coast. Many of these so-called "expatriate" species—which are not well-suited to the area's cold winter temperatures—are being collected by local aquariums and used in exhibits. The reason for this recent surge in tropical fish is not known but, the article explains, scientists suspect it has something to do with the general increase in water temperatures.

Certainly Limitless

2008-08-04T15:01:00.004-04:00

Check out the above video for a glimpse of Lurssen's famous Limitless. Leslie Wexner's elegant yacht spans 315'8" and ranked #14 on PMY’s annual "World's 100 Largest Yachts" this year.

Wexner, CEO of Limited Brands, is no stranger to lists or rankings—he ranked 273rd in Forbes’ 2007 list of the "world’s richest people."

Limitless will once again be featured in PMY’s upcoming November issue, showcasing America’s 100 Largest Yachts. She continues to rank inside the Top Ten, but you’ll have to wait until November to find out exactly where she fits. Until then, you can enjoy watching her effortlessly glide along the ocean.

Billy Joel's Newest Boat

2008-07-30T11:23:00.008-04:00

Maybe the Piano Man should be renamed the Boat Man.

Billy Joel’s newest boat, a Patriot 36 he christened Argos, features many customized details, such as a center-mounted console with an electric lift for easy access to the engine, wrap-around seating, a raised deck for visibility, and a 670-hp Cummins diesel.

Joel was integral to the design of this yacht, envisioning an art deco-inspired vessel, a reminder of the streamlined beauty of 1950’s sportfishing boats. He worked closely with the president of Ellis Boat Company, Don Ellis, and Brian Walls, a design engineer to make his concept a reality.

This new Patriot 36 is the first of its kind to be delivered. Joel claimed Argos was “the quietest boat in my fleet” due to its standard sound-reduction floor and exhaust systems, and Evolution Quiet Drive shaft system.

Now that Joel’s tour has ended with a historic finish at Shea Stadium, perhaps he has time to revisit his River of Dreams on this sleek, new yacht.

Cutting the Cost of Fishing

2008-07-30T10:21:00.009-04:00

The Yamaha engine company is currently offering fuel-efficient fishing tips on its Web site. The tips are all pretty intuitive, but that doesn’t mean they’re not useful, and for some weekenders feeling the gas crunch, pretty essential.

Yamaha advocates things like fishing with buddies, finding the "sweetspot" on your engine, and researching your fishing grounds well ahead of time so you know exactly where to go. Another good idea is trolling, or drift fishing for certain types of fish.

One that is not on this particular list is reducing weight, and aligning weight properly onboard your boat to ensure that your running angles are optimal. Following as many of these tips as possible is a good way to get out there and enjoy the summertime.

Clean Boating Act Now Official

2008-07-30T10:02:00.009-04:00

You're looking at President George W. Bush signing the Clean Boating Act of 2008 yesterday. Joining him aboard Air Force One was Rep. Steven LaTourette (left) and Rep. Patrick Tiberi, both from Ohio. The bill, which was approved by Congress last week, protects more than 17 million American recreational boaters from confusing and in some cases unnecessary regulations that are more applicable to commercial vessels. (Visit BoatBlue as well as this post to get the full background details.)

White House photo: Chris Greenberg

Azimut's Getaway, Atlantic City

2008-07-29T11:24:00.011-04:00

Azimut Yachts recently held a getaway for its owners at Trump Marina. In total, about 30 boats and their owners and families showed up for a fun weekend of boat hopping, cocktail parties, dinners and dancing, and a little fun at the tables.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the introduction of the new Azimut 50, equipped with the Seakeeper Gyro, which is a device that reduces roll. I had a chance to take the 50 out and test the device. It works quite well, and it's a nice option for Azimut enthusiasts. Another highlight of the weekend was the 116-foot Vivere owned by Phil Rinaldi. Phil was nice enough to give PMY a tour of this outstanding vessel.

Room Service

2008-07-28T15:41:00.004-04:00

Lazzara Yachts has found a solution to one obstacle in buying a boat: geography. On the heels of announcing its new LSX 92, the Tampa, Florida-headquartered company launched a Web site allowing prospective buyers to experience the LSX 92 from the comfort of their living rooms...no matter how many miles stretch from those rooms to the Sunshine State.

By entering a security code, 0092, you gain access to the inside workings of the LSX 92—from video presentations to animations and brochures to comprehensive layouts and sketches. You can also download material for review later. Talk about room service!

To experience the new LSX 92 log on to its special Web site. Then sit back, relax and enjoy.

Clean Boating Act Approved

2008-07-25T09:32:00.007-04:00

Good news: Earlier this week both the House of Representatives and the Senate approved the Clean Boating Act, to prevent the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from instituting regulations that would result in hefty fines for recreational boaters of all kinds, even kayakers.

For 35 years recreational and commercial boats alike have been exempt from permits covering normal overboard water discharge—things like washdown and runoff water. But a few years ago, a few states sued to overturn the exemption because of ballast-water discharges releasing harmful species into local waters. They won in federal court, and as a result the EPA will be required to start enforcing permit regulations come September 30. (If you're interested in reading the permit proposals, click here.) Vessels less than 79 feet will be required to have one type of permit, while vessels 80 feet and larger will need a different permit. Unfortunately, those regulations don't distinguish recreational boats from commercial ones, even though ballast-tank-equipped vessels aren't the same as runabouts, sportfishermen, and yachts. (And yes, kayaks were included in the regulations—canoes and PWCs as well.)

Thankfully, several Congressmen and Congresswomen recognized this just didn't make sense and sponsored the Clean Boating Act bill. As Chuck Schumer, the senator from New York who cosponsored the bill, said to a group of boaters in the Finger Lakes, "It's time to toss this ill-advised regulation overboard."

Next step: getting President George Bush's signature. Considering he's an active boater, as is his father, here's hoping he picks up his pen soon.

To follow further developments and read more about how the bill and regulations came about, visit BoatBlue.

And...Action!

2008-07-24T11:48:00.011-04:00

Pat Ford is one of those action-sports photographers that not only catches great in-motion, in-the-moment images, but can really put you there through the lense. Here are some recent shots he sent PMY's way, while covering the tarpon season with Capt. Rick Murphy.

Bloom Over

2008-07-24T11:34:00.006-04:00

A massive algal bloom in Qingdao, China, that threatened the sailing events in the upcoming Beijing Olympics has been successfully cleaned up, reports The New York Times. According to a Chinese official, barriers were installed in order to keep additional algae from infiltrating the waters that are slated for competition. The algae first appeared in late June and quickly spread, at its peak covering one third of the waters in the area. But by Monday, volunteers and workers had cleared over 700,000 tons of algae from the water and surrounding seashore.

Harmful algal blooms (often referred to as red tides) can occur due to an excess of nutrients in an aquatic system, which often results in a significant reduction of oxygen. Other blooms are natural, seasonal occurrences. Still others can be attributed to factors such as influxes in iron-rich dust and climate changes. The cause of the Qingdao bloom has yet to be determined.

Electric Insurance

2008-07-22T12:53:00.002-04:00

Electric boats are gaining popularity, since they provide a reasonable solution to soaring fuel costs and an alternative for those who are environmentally conscious. Travelers, a leading insurance company, is now offering an insurance discount of up to ten percent for owners of electric boats—a first for the industry.

Travelers defines an electric boat as “a vessel 100 percent powered by a propeller-driven, electric inboard source where utility is stored onboard.” Besides fuel and environmental advantages, electric boats require less maintenance than a diesel- or gasoline-powered boat due to the simplicity of the motors. They are quieter, too, another reason some people are turning to them for a tranquil cruise.

However, the economic benefit is worth noting, too: Travelers says that an 18-hp diesel engines cost approximately $50 to run for ten hours, while an electric boat would require a mere $1 or $2.

To encourage further use, several states are following a European trend by stipulating that specific waterways are exclusively for electric vessels.

Fountain Powerboats Expanding

2008-07-22T10:58:00.003-04:00

With boat sales slowing down and some boatbuilders laying off staff, the news in the marine world has been pretty bleak as of late. So the announcement yesterday that Fountain Powerboats is about to undergo a multimillion-dollar expansion is welcome indeed.

Fountain received a Job Development Investment Grant from the state of North Carolina, which is intended to create 250 jobs over the next few years and invest $12 million in its operations over the same time period. Reggie Fountain, founder and CEO of Fountain, says the goal is to bring Baja Marine, which he recently acquired from Brunswick, into the same factory where the rest of his boats are built.

"In effect, we will be the largest sportboat builder in the world when we get things going with Baja," Fountain told the Washington Daily News. "Between Fountain and Baja, we will be producing more than $100 million per year when we get going. That is conservative. I expect we will do more."

Maybe he'll get former President George Bush to take a look at the new line—although considering Bush Sr. just took delivery of his third Fountain, a 38 Center Console named Fidelity IV, an extra spin around the harbor might be called for.

Final Fin

2008-07-17T11:34:00.002-04:00

Between restrictions on tuna fishing and now shark finning, Japanese cuisine must really be suffering.

The House of Representatives refined a prior bill which prohibits shark finning, when fishermen sever a shark’s fin and return the remainder of the shark to the sea. This improved bill bans "vessels from having custody, control, or possession of shark fins without the carcass." The bill clarifies that aboard fishing and other vessels at a U.S. port, shark fins must be naturally connected to the body.

Shark finning is driven by the profitability of shark fin soup, a delicacy in many Asian countries, yet it contributes to the massive decline in the shark population, a steep drop of approximately 80 percent since the 1970’s.

This bill will now go to the Senate.

What You Want, What You Get

2008-07-17T08:31:00.007-04:00

Oftentimes when shopping for a boat, the initial plan of what we want can morph into something a little larger and more intricate than we originally intended. And when building a boat, modifications made from the original plans are called change orders. Well, this boater seems to have taken the idea of stepping up from the plan to heart. As you can see by the names of his "big" boat (Change Order) and the "tender" (Original Contract). We at PMY like the way this boater is thinking.

Not Niagra, But Close

2008-07-15T12:17:00.003-04:00

Last December in our annual Destinations section, I wrote about how nothing compares to New York City. Well, if you need further proof, there are four manmade waterfalls around town that you really can't appreciate unless you get up close to them by boat.

That's what I did Sunday; I took the photo here of the waterfall beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. The other three are west of the Brooklyn Heights promenade in Brooklyn, just north of the Manhattan Bridge in Manhattan, and at Governor's Island (near the Statue of Liberty). They're actually an art exhibit, and the water is pumped straight from the East River, cascading 90 to 120 feet back down into the river.

To learn about the art project, which runs through October, click here. You can visit them day or night; I definitely plan to go back at night to take more pictures, since they're lit up. If you live and boat in this area, make The Waterfalls a must-see. If you'll be visiting The Big Apple but without your boat, never fear; you can charter a boat from Surfside 3 marina in the Chelsea neighborhood.

He Made It!

2008-07-14T12:27:00.006-04:00

After a three-month voyage, Kenichi Horie reached the shores of his native Japan aboard his wave-powered boat. He left Hawaii back in March aboard the Suntory Mermaid II and completed the 4,800 mile voyage at an average speed of 1.5-knots. "I've been thinking about riding a wave-powered boat for 30 years, and finally my dream came true. The journey was so fun, and it was easy," said Horie, according to the Associated Press.

The AP states that the boat was equipped with diesel and sails should the adventurer have run into any storms. But as fortune has it, he never had to use any alternative form of propulsion.

No news yet as to how many books he managed to read en route. For the full story, click here.

The Future of Engines

2008-07-14T08:59:00.010-04:00

When I was in Italy a few months ago, Norberto Ferretti—the head and co-founder of the Ferretti Group—let it "slip" that they had just launched the hull of a brand new hybrid vessel and that the engine tests had exceeded expectations. He didn't let on much more. When I asked anybody else at the Ferretti Group for further clarification they were equally tight lipped; I couldn’t even figure out if it was an electric or hydrogen based system.

Well the answer is out.

This past Friday, the Ferretti Group debuted its Mochi Craft 23. The builder claims that this is the first vessel over 75 feet to have a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system. Twin 70-kW electric motors, powered by Lithium ion batteries, are attached to the reduction gears to provide diesel-free cruising for several hours. The hull for the vessel has been designed from scratch to accommodate both the weight of the batteries and to improve cruising at mid-range speeds.

Ferretti has not yet released information on the actual speed or fuel savings of these engines, but when it does, we’ll keep you posted.

Big Blue

2008-07-10T09:53:00.004-04:00

Eugene Shvidler’s mammoth yacht, Le Grand Bleu, can be seen in the above video in the waters of Antigua. Roman Abramovich either sold or gave this yacht to Shvidler in 2006. This clip was not shot by just any megayacht admirer, but rather a 'superyacht chef," Niall Harbison.

Harbison no longer considers himself a part of the “yachting business,” and instead works full time on his online cooking show. Curious foodies should check out his site for video recipes. His blog shares some of his megayacht musings, such as his all-time favorite yacht.

Mad About Mariner's Docking Game

2008-07-10T09:30:00.002-04:00

Today is one of those days where I really need to walk away from my Mac and do something else. Because if I sit here any longer, I will become completely consumed by Mad Mariner's docking game.

Using your keyboard's arrow keys, you maneuver the boat of your choice to the docking area. Simple, right? Not if you novices forget to keep your eyes out for shallow water (marked by light-blue areas), buoys, and other boats. Thankfully the first times you play, winds and current are light, so you don't have too many curveballs thrown your way.

How'd I do? Let's just say my first try was a "close but no cigar" situation: I clipped a boat at the dock. But I chalk that up to not having had enough coffee, since it's still morning.

Behemoth Battlewagon!

2008-07-10T08:35:00.011-04:00

This massive 86-foot fish chaser, which was designed by Applied Concepts Unleashed and built in Stuart, Florida, has been three years in the making.

PMY has done a little investigating, and here's some of the juicy info about this vessel, which is called Double Down:

More than a dozen companies were used to construct sections of this jig-built boat.

She has triple 2,400-hp MTU diesels. There are two outside engines, which are V-drive fixed shaft with wheels. The center motor is linked to a massive water jet.

Double Down is reported to top out at 47 knots (54 mph)with full load and cruise at 37 knots (42.5 mph). Her displacement is 185,000 pounds.

Futuristic dash (Company Called Voyager Systems did the technology for the
boat). The pilot’s Italian leather helm chair has a lot of the electronics integrated in the arms.

There are five flat screens make up the dash across the bridge.

The radar array swings inside the mono tower wings you see here. The antennas are in 20-foot-long tubes that follow the contours of the tower, with little lightning caps on top. You can actually pop off the caps and pull antennas. Everything was laid inside the composite of the boat

Monolithic tower (mast-like structure) with buggy top. The owner has kids and he wanted kids to go up tower safely, so he had the team build a retracting ladder into the tower. Press a button, ladder lowers out of headliner and you can climb up.

There are six staterooms (talk about room for the family).

Stay tuned as we try and get you a full feature on this very-different boat in an upcoming issue of PMY.

Grounded!

2008-07-09T10:59:00.006-04:00

According to a report from the Associated Press, a 63-meter (approximately 205-foot) cruise ship ran aground in Tarr Inlet near Glacier Bay, Alaska on Monday. Fortunately, no injuries were reported nor did the ship's hull suffer any serious damage. The vessel, which is owned by Cruise West, was carrying 51 passengers when she ran aground. She was stuck for nearly nine hours before being successfully towed to safety. The Coast Guard has yet to determine whether the accident was caused by human error or because of an electronic/mechanical malfunction.

New Fees on the Horizon

2008-07-08T20:41:00.011-04:00

If you don't think recreational boaters should be required to buy a pricey water-discharge permit from the federal government, now is a good time to let Washington know.

The Clean Water Act of 2008—a bill aimed to reverse a recent ruling that would force pleasure boaters to buy the same costly permits required of commercial freighters and tankers—is now stalled in Congress by one vote. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) refused to pass the bill before the holiday weekend unless commerical fishing boats were also exempt.

If legislators fail to enact the measure before the summer recess in a few weeks, then starting on Oct. 1, you will have to buy a permit to discharge any kind of water—engine cooling water, even deck run-off—from your boat.

To let your voice be heard, send a message to Congress.

Mercury Rising

2008-07-08T14:46:00.006-04:00

Boaters may be crying over surging fuel prices, but if fish could smile, they certainly would.

In Tokyo, Japan, the tuna fishing cooperative union may decide to stop approximately eighty fishing boats from pursuing big eye and yellow fin tuna, two staples of sushi bars. The high fuel prices combined with the already-depleted population of tuna virtually eliminate any possibility of garnering a profit. The fishermen would be advised to cease their journey to the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

Shark Week Is Coming

2008-07-08T10:39:00.005-04:00

Ok all you fans of these sleek-swimming and sometimes snaggletoothed fishes, Shark Week is back at Discovery Channel this month. Everything you ever wanted to know (or didn't), about these phenoms of evolution will be covered during this annual homage.

Here are a few of the week's highlights:

MYTHBUSTERS: SHARK SPECIAL
Premieres Sunday, July 27, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Get a reminder.
Using their signature sci-tech style of explosive experimentation, the MythBusters hit the deep blue from California to the Bahamas to investigate myths about sharks. They are honing in on some doozies this year: Are sharks repelled by magnets? Do dogs attract sharks? Do the vibrations caused by a flapping injured fish attract sharks? Does chili powder repel sharks? And hosts Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman create the ultimate SHARK WEEK build—a 16-foot-long robo-shark!

SURVIVING SHARKS
Premieres Monday, July 28, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Survivorman's Les Stroud hosts this look at how best to play it safe in the water, while testing popular theories of how to survive shark encounters. Les travels to the Bahamas and South Africa to test whether the behavior of Caribbean reef sharks and great whites changes depending upon the time of day. While in South Africa, Les and marine biologist Jeremiah Sullivan conduct an analysis of the great white's bite, and test whether kicking and splashing attracts sharks, and if it's safer to stay in a group or tread water alone if stranded in the ocean.

DAY OF THE SHARK
Premieres Monday, July 28, at 10 p.m. ET/PT.
Do shark encounters happen more frequently in the morning or night? This special chronicles six recent shark attacks that took place at different times of day. Top shark experts weigh in on what time of day is better or worse for avoiding sharks.

DIRTY JOBS: SHARK SPECIAL
Premieres Tuesday, July 29, at 10 p.m. ET/PT.
With over 400 species of sharks, they don't all live in the warm waters of the tropics —some inhabit the freezing cold waters of the Arctic. And who better to introduce viewers to one our planet's most unsung sharks than DIRTY JOBS' Mike Rowe, who travels north to the edge of the Arctic Circle in search of the mysterious Greenland shark. These large sharks are slow-moving behemoths, and learning more about them will help scientists understand the rapid ecological changes affecting that part of the world, and how the Greenland shark impacts the food chain there.

Mike assists shark scientists with their research as they tag and release a large male Greenland shark. By the end of the trip, Mike gains a deep appreciation for the men and women who are studying this elusive shark in one of the most extreme climates known to humankind.

Make a List, Check It Twice

2008-07-07T08:26:00.008-04:00

Maybe I'm old-fashioned, but if something is yours, people shouldn't take it. Nevertheless, a boater in my area was recently fishing 100 miles plus offshore before he discovered his easily accessible five-man life raft was gone. Someone had broken into the boat and stole it earlier in the week. Putting aside the $5,000-plus replacement cost for a minute, this boater and his crew could have been at serious risk as a result of not having that life raft onboard, especially 100 miles from nowhere.

While this raft is likely gone forever (except for the million-to-one shot by checking for-sale items on Craigslist and Ebay), it's worth noting that before you leave the dock making a routine checklist of must-have onboard items, is a just a good idea.