Boating & Sailing

Feature Writer: Alan Sorum

Here we'll explore safe vessel use, procedures for boating emergencies, clean boating practices, and vessel maintenance - whether you own a yacht, a catamaran, a schooner, a cruiser, a trawler, or a wooden sailboat.

For recreational boaters we'll discuss seamanship, fishing, diving, navigation, ideal ports and marinas, rigging, racing, knots, signals, all while learning how to protect our natural environment. Kayaking, rafting and canoeing enjoyment and safety will also be covered.

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Alan Sorum

Jul 2, 2008

See My Sea Boat Exchange Program

In: Boating & Sailing (general)

A French company is providing boaters with the opportunity to share their boats and boating experiences with other vessel owners worldwide. more...

Jun 23, 2008

Lightning Safety Awareness Week

In: Boat Safety & Maintenance

Learn more about thunderstorms, lightning and lightning safety during Lightning Safety Awareness Week, hosted by the U.S. National Weather Service. more...

Jun 17, 2008

New Fisheries Conservation Journal

In: Boating & Sailing (general)

The Fish and Wildlife Service has released a new quarterly magazine centered on the Agency's fisheries program called Eddies: Reflections on Fisheries Conservation. more...

Jun 11, 2008

Outdoor Recreational Injuries

In: Boating & Sailing (general)

Nearly 213,000 people were treated in emergency rooms annually between 2004 and 2005 in the U.S . More than half of the injuries occurred among young people aged 10-24. more...

Jun 4, 2008

Recreational Water Illnesses Rise

In: Boating & Sailing (general)

Recreational Water Illnesses (RWI) can impact swimmers, boaters and other outdoor enthusiasts. The CDC expects the number of cases reported to climb and offers solutions. more...

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Alan Sorum

Jun 24, 2008

2008 Vic Maui Sail Race

The Vic-Maui yacht race sails every two years and it just got underway. Participants can race in two distinct classes and enjoy world-class water.

The 2008 edition of the Vic Maui (Victoria to Maui) International Yacht Race got underway on Sunday, 22 June. Beautiful clear skies and 15 knots of wind graced the starting sequence in Victoria. The nine participant yachts reported 30 knot winds by the afternoon and the race was well on its way to Maui.

Real Time Tracking - Starting with only four boats in 1965, the Vic Maui is sponsored by the Royal Vancouver and Lahaina Yacht Clubs and is held every two years. This year, those interested in following the race have technology on their side. Details can be found online at the event website and the progress of the fleet can be viewed in real time. Race yachts have been equipped with transponders provided by Flagship Tracking Services. The tracking system shows vessel position and displays current weather conditions.

Using the tracking system, racers could be seen positioned off the Oregon coast abeam Salem and Portland at 0829 Pacific Standard Time on 24 June. The yachts have traveled just over 200 nautical miles since the start on Sunday.

Participating Yachts - Nine vessels are racing in this year's Vic Maui. The Yacht's name and owner are listed below and a profile for each craft is being provided at the sponsor's website.