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Morse Code

Morse Code

March 31, 2011

Morse code is an electrical coding system used to transmit textual messages as a sequence of “dots” and “dashes” expressed through on-off lights or tones.  The Morse code system was named after the American Samuel F.B. Morse who as a matter of fact was not a scientist. Indeed, Morse was a painter and the reason he focused on improving the means of long distance communication was a sad one.

6 Myths about Boat Insurance

6 Myths about Boat Insurance

December 7, 2010

Purchasing a boat and maintaining it is quite costly. The last thing you need is something to happen and you lose both your boat and/or all the money you invested in it.  If you own a boat or planning to buy one, then, for sure, you have come to know about the existence of boat insurance.  But what is boat insurance? Is it required? Is it worth? What is it for?

Boat insurance is not required

Indeed most states in US do not require that you insure your boat. You should check if the specific state where you keep your boat is not one of the states that actually do require boat insurance. In addition, there are other instances when insurance is not optional. Generally, if you took a boat loan your financial institution will ask you to insure the boat. Some marinas and dry storage facilities will also not accept your boat unless it is insured.

I only need boat insurance during the months I am using my boat

Whether your boat is on water or on a dry dock there are many risks that remain – flooding, vandalism, fire, and damage to equipment on board such as fishing or navigation gear.

How to Choose a Home Marina for Your Boat

How to Choose a Home Marina for Your Boat

December 2, 2010

Choosing a marina is not easy. Here are some tips how to choose a marina that best suits your needs:

Is if safe?

You spend a lot of money on your boat. Certainly, you want to anchor somewhere where she will be safe. Make sure that the marina is in a wind and wave protected area. Check out the actual slip you can rent and ask about tide variations. Water levels vary based on the time of the day and year. One thing you don’t want is your boat to get grounded.

Kiwis Victorious at Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai

Kiwis Victorious at Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai

November 27, 2010

Racing in its second home, Emirates Team New Zealand won the Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai today, defeating the USA’s BMW Oracle Racing in two straight races.

Today’s victory concluded an incredible performance by the team from Auckland, New Zealand, which over two years won four of five Louis Vuitton Trophy events and finished second in the other.

Adding extra luster to their performance, Dean Barker and his Kiwi team came from behind to win their last four races in Dubai, including the two today against BMW Oracle Racing, the outstanding performer during two weeks of match racing off the Dubai International Marine Club.

Today also saw the announcement that Louis Vuitton Malletier will continue its sponsorship of the America’s Cup and challengers for the Cup.

“We are thrilled to announce today the continuation of our 30-year partnership with the America’s Cup. Having met with the organizing team several times, we believe that the 34th edition will be the best America’s Cup yet,” said Yves Carcelle, Chairman and CEO of Louis Vuitton Malletier.

5 Largest Motor Yachts in the World

5 Largest Motor Yachts in the World

November 26, 2010

Luxury boats are traditionally the cherry on the top of the cake when it comes to demonstrating prosperity among the rich people around the world. There are thousands of big and luxurious yachts - all offering their owners ultimate comfort and exceptional joy at sea. Among motor yachts there five boats that stand out – their enormous length and luxury is unmatched – they are the longest yachts in the world.

Number one is reserved for Eclipse. This 560 ft (170 m) long mega yacht was completed in 2010 and her proud owner is Roman Abramovich. Needless to say, the yacht offers an exceptional comfort and luxury. Ecipse has two helicopter pads, two swimming pools and can easily host between 60 and 80 guests, not counting the 70-person crew. Something that you don’t normally see on a private yacht and makes Eclipse distinct is the submarine on board which can dive up to 160 ft depth. Another unique feature of Eclipse is the missile defense system that ensures the security of everyone on board. Eclipse maximum speed is 25 knots.

Italian Team Wins Fleet Racing at Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai

Italian Team Wins Fleet Racing at Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai

November 25, 2010

The six international crews at the Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai hosted local dhow skippers today in three fleet races when competition resumed off the Dubai International Marine Club.

Italy’s Mascalzone Latino Audi won the day handsomely with skipper Gavin Brady scoring two first places. The French/German team All4One and Sweden’s Artemis Racing were second equal, while Emirates Team New Zealand was third.

Saeed Hareb, CEO of the Dubai International Marine Club, presented the fleet race trophy to Gavin Brady and  presented commemorative medals to Brady and all his crew.  

Overall Provisional Points
  1.  Mascalzone Latino Audi, 1-1, 2 pt
=2.  Artemis Racing, 2-2, 4 pts
=2.  All4One, 3-1, 4 pts
  4.  Emirates Team New Zealand, 2-3, 5 pts
  5.  Synergy Russian Sailing Team, 4-3, 7 pts
  6.  BMW Oracle Racing Team, 4-4, 8 pts

The Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai is under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, the principal sponsor of the event.

BMW Oracle Racing Dominates Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai

BMW Oracle Racing Dominates Louis Vuitton Trophy Dubai

November 25, 2010

The American team BMW Oracle Racing sailed a near-flawless race today against Sweden's Artemis Racing to maintain their margin at the top of the leaderboard.

Everything didn't go their way. Earlier in the day James Spithill and his team were defeated by the French/German team All4One whose helmsman Sebastien Col won the start and staved off determined American attacks, especially on the first three legs. It was only the second loss in the series for the American team.

Except for BMWOR which holds a four and a half point lead on 13 points, the leaderboard at the Louis Vuitton Trophy remained tightly-packed after the second day of competition in the second round.

Results:
  • 1. BMW ORACLE Racing, 11-2, 13 pts
  • 2. Emirates Team New Zealand, 7-5, 8.5 pts
  • 3. All4One, 5-7, 6 pts
  • 4. Artemis Racing, 5-8, 5 pts
  • 5. Synergy Russian Sailing Team, 5-7, 4 pts *
  • 5. Mascalzone Latino Audi Team, 4-8, 4 pts *
* A scoring penalty has been assessed by the umpires

3 Important Tasks When Buying a Used Boat

3 Important Tasks When Buying a Used Boat

November 25, 2010

If you've always dreamed of sailing the seas on your own boat, feeling the wind in your hair and the ocean's spray on your skin, and if you've finally decided to make it a reality, read this guide first. Before you withdraw your life savings to pursue your passion, make sure you're making a smart investment.