Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Friday, July 31, 2009
The Rest of the Story
I'll Be Back...
Look for "The Rest of the Story," later today.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Blue Peter
"Blue Peter" in Roche Harbor this week
The Blue Peter.
In harbour: All persons should report on board as the vessel is about to proceed to sea.
"Blue Peter" is a classic NW yacht. Here's a little more on her.
Blue Peter 96' x 18.3' 1928 Lake Union Drydock
Ted Geary design
The 96 -foot ocean diesel yacht Blue Peter, built at Seattle in 1928 for John Graham of that city, was sold by him to George L. Machris of Los Angeles, head of the Economy Oil Co., the sale being made and the vessel delivered to the new owner at Los Angeles by L. E. Geary. [Gordon Newell, Maritime Events of 1934, H. W. McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest. Seattle Superior Publishing Company, 1966., p. 430.]
Original engines: Twin 175hp Hall-Scott gasoline
Geary-96 Sisters | Another view & lines
(Ed. note: The above info is via Classic Yacht Association and was written by former student, and Naval Architect, Capt. Rick Etsell. The full link is here.)Thursday, July 30, 2009
Patience is a Virtue
By the end of July / beginning of August there's usually light at the end of the (seasonal) tunnel. Today was one of those days.
It was mid afternoon and I'd returned from Anacortes on the tow of the 33' Nauticat. Vessel Assist Center called about a 19' Bayliner off Friday Harbor in need of assistance.
The boat in questioned had joined VA yesterday, knowing that their vessel was problematic. They had come some 60 miles in support of a kayaking group.
The 30 minutes it was going take for me to arrive on scene was too long, and they sought the help of a Good Sam to get them into the port. We exchange a mess of calls, please come now, please stand down, etc.. To make matters more complicated the Nextel System our work phones are on roll calls to Voice Mail automatically when the system is taxed, and we've had lots of that the last few days.
The last call I received, asked how close I was, "10 minutes," was the response. Seems as though they now wanted a jump start. "OK, I'm on may way - where are you?"
"We're in Friday Harbor between a large power boat and a large sail boat." While difficult, I held my composure and said that they would need to be a little more specific. "We'll call you back."
They ended up being inside the breakwater. The jump start didn't do the trick, and they asked me to fix the boat. When I indicated that I could tow the boat, there was some indignation about the value of Vessel Assist.
The unusual hot weather here has made temperaments a little more interesting.
I offered the usual list of marine repair facilities, and they said, "Just take us to the closest one."
And so it goes....
Oops, wrong way
Too funny. This sounds like something that would happen locally.
Lots of place names are duplicated here and in Canada; ice. Prevost, Cattle Pt. et. al..
It pays to do so pre planning on paper.
Via Gizmodo: http://m.gizmodo.com/site?t=OtfOXYCI-bPjN-xe76w5yw&sid=gizmodo
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Water in the oil pan
We towed this vessel last season when the engine overheated.
Should be a great day on the water as another scorcher is forecasted for the NW.
(Ed. note: The 33' Nautical is one of my favorite designs.)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Fishing Vessels burns as a result of propane fire
East Jefferson Fire-Rescue firefighters attempt to fight a fire aboard the Kemo Sabay on Wednesday. -- Photo by East Jefferson Fire-Rescue
The Peninsula Daily News is reporting:
PROTECTION ISLAND -- Three men were rescued by passing fishermen from a boat out of Port Townsend that was still burning in the Strait of Juan de Fuca on Wednesday night and was expected to sink.
Rob Sutherland said the three men on the bow of a burning and listing 65-foot shrimping vessel were ready to jump into the water to escape the blaze when he pulled his 17-foot fishing vessel up to the bow and plucked them to safety Wednesday afternoon.
The complete Peninsula Daily News post by Erik Hidle is here.
(Ed. note: I listened to this incident unfold while on the tow to Cornet Bay yesterday.)
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
A failed cooling hose...
Fortunately he's a VA member for this 7-8 hour round trip run to Cornet Bay on Whidbey Island.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Power Management
An expensive lesson for this non member. We had 2.75 hrs in the job.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Canoe Journeys 2009
Over 150 Native Canoes are expected to converge at the Suquamish Nation (Port Madison, WA) on August 3 - 8, 2009.
Cedar canoes are the traditional mode of transportation for coastal Native American people of this region. For thousands of years several different types of canoes have played a key role in our survival. There were canoes for times of war, for fishing, for whaling, and even heavy cargo transportation. Today, the Suquamish Tribe travels the waters of our ancestors with members of many tribes in celebration and connection to our past.
Native peoples of the Salish Sea in the US and Canada have been conducting this event for 20 years.
My friends at the Tulalip Nations (Winter 2009 Zenith Maritime Master's Course) will support this event with their new Patrol Boat. Related BitterEnd Tulalip posts HERE.
Suquamish Chief Seattle (Sealth)
Chief Seattle was an ancestral leader of the Suquamish Tribe born in 1786 at the Old-Man-House village in Suquamish. His father was Schweabe, a Suquamish Chief, and his was mother Scholitza, a Duwamish from a village near present Kent. Seattle was a six years old when Captain George Vancouver anchored in Suquamish waters off Bainbridge Island in 1792.
Sealth's famous 1954 Treaty Speech can be found HERE. The opening reads,
"Yonder sky that has wept tears of compassion upon my people for centuries untold, and which to us appears changeless and eternal, may change. Today is fair. Tomorrow it may be overcast with clouds. My words are like the stars that never change.
Washington State Ferry Sealth is named for the famous chief.
Official Site: Tribal Journeys 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Tug and Barge (of cars)
Click on pics to enlarge.
Most tugs and tows in the islands consist of log bundles. We do get the occasional barge traffic. Tonight this barge of demolished cars was making it's way South in San Juan Channel at 20:00.
Typically tugs transit via Rosario or Haro Straits
PhotoShoped version by BE reader Charlie M (OMG - what's that on top)
Nice evening for a boat ride...
We're enroute to Islands Marine Center on Lopez.
Record heat, 85¤ on the water here today (snickers at my friends elsewhere.)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
New Whale Watching Rules Proposed
The San Juan Journal is reporting:
National Marine Fisheries Service proposes wider berth, safety zone for orcas.
The proposed rules would prohibit vessels from approaching any killer whale closer than 200 yards and forbid vessels from intercepting or parking in the path of a whale. In addition, the proposed regulations would set up a half-mile-wide no-go zone along the west side of San Juan Island from May 1 through the end of September where generally no vessels would be allowed.
The compete San Juan Journal post it here.
Monday, July 27, 2009
On to Blaine
Deja Vous: Back on 6/16 I also ran on this vessel: Fuel in the Water
Lady Washington
BitterEndBlog:
captrichardrodriguez.blogspot.com/
sorry for the short response - this message via my cell
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Lost
Six adults and four children left La Conner this morning for day run to Sucia Island. The left without charts, although they had a road map and GPS indicating Lat/Long.
As they got ready to depart Sucia, they got turned around and confused. They ended up hitting a rock of Morseby Is in Canada, before they call Capt. John Aydelotte on Whidbey Island.
John's wife Trisha in turn called me about 19:30 with the info about a lost boat in Canadian waters, (they could see the BC Ferries.) They ended up 20 miles West of Sucia and had wanted to go 30 miles SSE of Sucia.
I got them to reboot the GPS and read me their position, about 90 minutes from Friday Harbor. A bevy of phone calls ensued to US and Canadian Customs, in that all members of the party did not have proper ID. The Customs folks in Canada allowed for me to pick them up without clearing because of the nature of the distress. We were able to make arrangements on the US side for an officer to meet us a Roche Harbor to file lots of paperwork.
I got back to Diligence at 00:25.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
A tripping condition
Be sure to turn down the sound if you are offended by profanity. The story here is seen in the first 30 seconds of the video.
These videos are classic examples of a tug being tripped. Tripping occurs when while turning a substantially heavier towed object. The tug is pulled laterally during the turn and and can not recover. In situations such as this, the righting moment of the tug has been compromised.
Even small assistance vessels like Remedy are susceptible to tripping. I've felt her start to heal over on a few occasions. The best strategy is to bleed off the power, without being overrun, and turn the tow boat slowly but deliberately back to center. Pouring on the coals will hasten the trip.
There are bound to be questions and comments here. Let's see how our group a boaters and pros respond.
(Ed. note: Thanks to former student, Capt. Randy Johnson for the link.)
Saturday, July 25, 2009
A bad impeller...
...rendered this 28' Islander disabled in Cattle Pass late this afternoon. Although he had a spare, it was difficult to install with the conditions and gnarly current.
We were making 11.1 knots in the flood (and saw a burst of 12.1 kts) under tow at 1600 rpms on Remedy. Normal towing speed for this type of vessel would have been about 6 kts.
The Whale Watch Debate Continues
Via BlueWhale.info
Do whale-watching tours help whale conservation?
It may seem odd when you first hear about it, but there is a lot of controversy these days about weather or not whale watching should be legal at all. Whale-watching tours are popular with many people. Tours take groups of people out into the ocean to see whales close-up. A variety of boats are used, from small rubber life boats to large boats carrying 200 people or more. People taking,the tours are thrilled and awed by their experience. However, some people complain that whale watchers harass the whales. They think that the tours should be stopped or kept from coming too near the whales.
Pros for whale-watching tours:
1. People who see whales up close come away with a new respect and appreciation for whales. These people will want to help save whales from extinction.
2. Whale-watching provides income for people and communities. It shows those who used to depend on whaling that whales are worth more alive than dead.
3. Many whales seem to enjoy contact with whale watchers. They approach the boats and seem very curious. They may even present their heads or flippers for people to touch.
Cons against whale-watching tours:
1. You can appreciate whales from a distance. When you get too close, you may disturb them or even draw the attention of predators like killer whales to them.
2. The more thrilling the experience, the more money the tour operator makes. Some operators may be tempted to approach whales too closely and take risks in order to increase their profits.
3. Whale watchers may affect whale behavior and migrations in ways we do not yet understand.
As you can see, there are great reasons both for and against whale watching tours. For now it's completely legal in all countries, but if the population keeps dwindling, one day we may be forced to stop these otherwise helpful excursions. Perhaps you'd better charter your trip sooner rather than later, and bring a videocam so that your grandchildren may know what it's like.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Pole Pass on a Short String
What you can't see is the sailboat under power that wants to meet us in Pole Pass as I give five short blasts to, repeatedly. I refrained from giving him the International Salute, although I wanted to.
We're enroute from Deer Harbor to West Sound.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Don't Shoot the Messenger
Another towing blogger and BE commenter sent along this photo as a possible generic pic of a BL. I can see the sights of the BL guys now. (That's not a BL, how can you be so insensitive, unprofessional, conduct unbecoming ......blah blah blah.) Yes, my first boat was a 1973, 21' BL Buccaneer.
After all it's mid season, and a little levity helps.
A reminder to all....be humble.....it will come up and bite you when you least expect it. The Sea takes no prisoners.
A reminder to all....be humble.....it will come up and bite you when you least expect it. The Sea takes no prisoners.
(Ed. note: Thanks Charlie.)
Parts Delivery
Generic 28' Bayliner
This morning I'm off to find a cap and rotor for a 28' Bayliner. The owner called from Fossil Bay on Sucia last night. They had a fire onboard that fried the old one. If the replacement works, he'll be good to go. If not, it's a tow to Bellingham.
The are three places here in Friday Harbor to check, and then over on Lopez if there's no luck here.
Update, found the part at CarQuest for 25% of what the strand thought it would cost.
Update #2
Related posts at IBoatNW.com, HERE.
What's Up with calls at 01:00
OMG - a second call at 01:00 in as many nights.
This 35' Erickson had lost power off Turn Island. They'd been anchored in Griffin Bay when the wind came up and they decided to get out of Dodge.
For a short while they wanted to shoot the messenger as their VM membership had lappsed in May. A speaker phone call to our Center in Virginia confirmed that their Boat US hull insurance would cover part of the call.
At night we have a two hour minimum plus a call out fee.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Basic Skills
49' Ponderosa in Parks Bay
First, it's important to note that I'm no mechanic. With tasks more involved than an oil change, I'm usually looking for help and guidance.
This afternoon's run called for an engine needing to be bled. While close to my level of incompetence, it was fairly easy to accomplish the task.
Like most things nautical, we turned the event into a small learning experience. I asked the strand to drag out the manual, with his wife giggling in the background. From there the process got easier.
Just nice folks out with grown kids and the dogs.
Basic stuff; changing filters, belts, impellers etc are the things you really should be able to accomplish on your own, as help isn't always close.
Adventures in Babysitting
GPS tracks, Fossil Bay Sucia Island, in the wee hours of 7/23/09
The cell rang at 00:45 this morning. it was Capt. Fritz saying that she hadn't got to the phone fast enough and the Coast Guard had left a message about a member wanted to be ungrounded at Fossil Bay, Sucia Island.
I called the CG and suited up for a night run, (full exposure suit) and arrived on scene at 02:10, it took a little longer than normal with a 2-3' sea running. Being woken from a deep sleep usually takes me 10 minutes or so to gain some situational awareness.
Upon arriving, the strand had freed himself, and told me he no longer needed my services. (He had $50 in Vessel Assist coverage.) I informed him that he was still responsible for the run.
The 35' C&C sailboat had all of its rode out from two anchors. I requested that he don his PFD and he did.
I side tied to him and helped with the lines. Then I suggested he might be more comfortable further back in the anchorage. He didn't want to go because of the -2.5 tide at 13:05. He wanted to re-anchor close to the entrance of Fossil Bay. Once again he was too close to the wall and decided to move. He dropped his hook and caught the mooring buoy of a 45' sailing vessel and then played bumper boats for 30 minutes.
I suggested he cut the rode, buoy the line and deal with the situation in the morning. After exchanging insurance info with the 45'er he wanted me to lead him to an suitable place to drop the hook. I informed him that I'd give him a general idea where most folks anchor, but would not make a specific recommendation, as any further foibles would end up being my responsibility.
He did agree to let me take the time to see if there were moorings available Echo Bay, which I did. I came back and reported that the Linear Moorage had space. He was concerned he'd not be able to maneuver his vessel.
He ultimately decided at about 03:45 to motor around for several hours until daylight.
He ended up paying for all but $50 of the 4.5 hour call.
Don't Go There
MV Malibu aground on Shirt Tail Reef 7/10/02
(Vessel Assist Friday Harbor did the salvage)
Related article Seattle Times article HERE
Sometime ago Mark Bunzel over at Northwest Yachting did a great article "The top 10 places in the San Juan and Gulf Islands you don't want to visit.
The article is HERE.
(Ed. note: Thanks to BE reader Lee Goodwin for the link.)
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Hard Ungrounding at Jones Island
Position:
N 48*36.690
W123*02.523
This 29' Cal anchored up last night at the South Cove of Jones Island when the tide was +8'. She happened to be anchored in the intertidal zone and over rocks. The Cal draws about five feet. Our response time took a little longer than normal this morning due to fog in Friday Harbor.
A fast falling tide had her aground at 09:00. The tide was dropping rapidly to a -2.9 feet at 11:29. When I arrived on scene she was heeled over.
Explaining to the strand that this was an in insurance claim, and not a soft ungrounded took some doing. After I got him on the speaker phone with Vessel Assist and Boat US Insurance, calmer heads prevailed.
He was headed to Friday Harbor to inspect for further damage.
(Ed. note: Always be aware of the state of the tide, required scope and what's coming next. I recall pulling a another sailboat off that same rock a few seasons back.)
Otopodes
OCTOPUS 1758, genus name of a type of eight-armed cephalopod mollusks, from Greek oktopous "eight-footed," from okto "eight" (see eight) + pous "foot." Proper plural is octopodes, though octopuses probably works better in English. Octopi is from mistaken assumption that -us is the Latin noun ending that takes -i in plural. - source, The Online Entomology Dictionary.
(Ed. note: Thanks to BE reader Mike Fisher for the above lead, via The Stranger.)
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
60' Ferro Cement Ketch
This 60' Ferro Cement Ketch suffered a transmission failure NE of Active Pass in British Columbia. The owner is a knowledgeable local with a Master's License.
Our colleague Nick from Vessel Assist South Gulf Islands handed off the tow at the US/Canadian Boarder. Our portion was a little over 4 hours.
Two evenings in a row we've experienced great service at US Customs from Officer Barnes - thanks.
Got back to Shipyard Cove around 22:30.
(Ed. note: There was an earlier short job today - moving a boat from one side of a dock to another.)
Home Bulit Boat Show in Seattle This Weekend
The Center for Wooden Boats in Seattle is hosting:
For people who have built small craft, and for those who want to.
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 25
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, July 26
More info, here.
(Ed. note: Thanks for the heads up from BE reader Tim Yeardon.)
Monday, July 20, 2009
Just returned from Canada at 23:00
A former student and friend had called our Canadian colleague for a tow because of an overheating issue and no wind. The tower was tied up for hours.
Capt. Deb Fritz and I got underway for Swanson Channel (after checking with US and Canadian Customs) to tow the 35' C&C to Canoe Cove in Sidney, BC.
7.75 hours in this run.
(Ed. note: Sorry no pics on this one.)
Friday Harbor Captain's Course
ONE SPACE LEFT for he September - October 100 ton Master's Course.
First come first served. Others will be wait listed should there be any cancellations.
If you're interested, contact me HERE.
Off to America today by truck
(You can find the position of WSF vessels via Vessel Watch, here.)
On a mission of mercy, I'm off to the mainland (America as we say here) to pick up supplies for A1 Marine Services. With truck and trailer I'll make several stops before returning on the 15:10 ferry.
Look for any boat related pics throughout the day.
Unfortunately BE reader Sandy Konigmacher from Portland ME and Castco Bay Boaters will not be able to follow me on Spot.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
An overheating engine and no wind...
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Incredible orca footage shot by Center for Whale Research
Video via OrcaGirl over at Orcinus Orca Collective
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Rub a dub dub
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Oh No - Not Capt. Fritz!
BTW, Deb's an Unlimited Gold member of Vessel Assist.
And I have permission to ridicule her and her 21' Shamrock "High Pressure"
Here's a shout out to Deb's Mum, a BE reader from Kremling, CO
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Hey Good Buddy
As heard on the VHF @ 06:54
Caller: Breaker one six, breaker one six; Radio Check
Response: Loud and Clear
Caller: ten four / thanks
Friday, July 17, 2009
Small Salvage
By the time the folks aboard this 18' runabout reached the beach on the NE side of James Island State Park she was full of water. Indeed the owner had done the correct thing by beaching the boat. He'd just placed new engines on the boat yesterday. Additionally a seam had opened on this aluminum boat last season and had been repaired.
When Capt. Deb Fritz and I arrived there were a group of folks gathered around the boat. We quickly secured the stern as high as possible with our "Raider." The used several lookie lools on the beach to sit on the bow, raising the stern just enough to bring the stern out of the water.
We then placed two 4k gph electric pumps aboard the boat, and dewatered her. We then secured the boat on the hip of 'Raider" and towed her four miles to the ramp at Washington Park in Anacortes with the pumps running.
20' Larson to Sandy Pt.
They think they got bad fuel.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Watch workboats churn up and down Guemes Channel
photo by Joan Pringle
GoSkagit.com is reporting:
What Crookes likes best about his job these days is “the view from my office window — and the people of course.”
Crookes’ office window is high atop the wheelhouse of the 98-foot cargo landing craft he operates for his San Juan Marine Freight Company.
The complete GoSkagit.com post by Joan Pringle is here.
Our previous San Juan Enterprise post is here.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Surprise, Surprise, Surprise
Related audio clip HERE.
The phone rang at 05:45 this morning. It was Vessel Assist Dispatch. A member had allowed some guests to row his dingy ashore last night (100 yards from his boat.) He needed it towed back to the his boat, as it was at a private dock.
I asked him if he was willing to wait an hour as I would be passing his way enroute to the fuel dock. He made the situation seem urgent. I got dressed and went all of a mile. In the 25 minutes that had elapsed since the call, he was able to maneuver his highly complex trawler to the dock and retrieve the dink.
At this point he said, "Looks like I don't need you now." At least he could have called. Then he asked if I could provide a jump start and make the call "Legitimate." I informed him that the call was legitimate in that we had been dispatched.
Then I dug through the box o stuff and set up the cables, and Surprise, Surprise, Surprise, his dink started without me needing to provide the jump. He seemed indignant that there was paper work to fill out.
His closing comment, "At least you made some money today."
Thanks for the hospitality John
Yesterday's tow of the 28' Bayliner ended at Cornet Bay, just inside Deception Pass where Vessel Assist Operator Capt. John Aydelotte operates the turf adjacent to ours. He has been in the biz for ever.
We visited for a while, cussed and discussed towing issues, and he provided the refreshments.
You can find his Marine Services & Assist NW page here.
Thanks John
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
In the soup
The strand has changed his destination to Cornet Bay.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Morning @ Roche Harbor
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Long Haul Today
This morning (06:00) there's fog for the first time this season.
Late yesterday afternoon a call came in from our Vessel Assist colleague in the Canadian Gulf Islands asking if we could pick up a 28' Bayliner on the boarder. I took her to Roche Harbor.
Around 09:00 I'll head back to Roche Harbor and take the BL to Langley WA, a round trip of 120 miles.
Look for a few pics via the cell.
Historic Navy Hydrofoil in Need of a Final Home
photo credit Larry Steagall, Kitsap Sun (purchase photo info)
The Kitsap Sun is reporting:
The hydrofoil’s heyday was short but captivating. On July 18, 1963, a Pratt and Whitney jet engine rocketed the 59-foot, 17-ton catamaran to 96.7 mph on Puget Sound, a hydrofoil record. But it could be hard to jockey. On July 18, 1963, it rolled during a trial run off Vashon Island, at 80 mph.
The complete post by Ed Friedrich is here.
(Ed. note: Thanks to BE reader Mike Fisher for the link.)
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Friend's Boat on a Short Leash
They are Unlimited Gold members which means this tow is covered "Dock to Dock.
"
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Whale Wars - San Juan Style
Orcas - the ubiquitous symbol of the San Juan islands are once again center stage. A local group Orca Relief, has begun protests against local commercial Whale Watching companies. This past weekend, the protest efforts picked up speed with the placement of stickers around town and in the harbor and confrontations with operators and customers. An article from the San Juan Islander is here.
At the heart of the matter is the charge that whale watching constitutes harassment and pursuit of an endangered species.
Orca Relief website is here.
The whale watching owners organization, Pacific Whale Watch Association subscribes to the following set of guidelines.
Wikipedia info on Orcas is here.
7/15/09 update: Additional Island Guardian post is here.
(Ed. note: For some perspective it should be noted that I know a number of Captains, Naturalists, and Owners in the Whale Watching fleet.)
Capt. Deb Fritz
100 Ton Master, Capt. Deb Fritz at the helm of "Vessel Assist Salvation."
Capt. Deb Fritz is our back up driver and a great operator. The last two days we worked several cases together. She's a great wingman...........except she smiles too much.
BTW, a year ago Deb was in my Zenith Maritime Course here in Friday Harbor.
Oh, btw, before you start asking the PFD questions, we were at the dock.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Shirt Tail Reef Strikes Again
Western Entrance to Wasp Passage
Capt. Deb. Fritz works the BitterEnd aboard Remedy as we back her off the reef.
Damage to the undercarriage. The strut was leaking as well.
This older 26' Tollycraft found Shirt Tail Reef around noon today. We made it on scene in 12 minutes. It was a short tow back to Friday Harbor for the haul out at Jensen's.
The admonition continues: "Always know where your are."
Beating against a lee shore at night in a gale.
Red dot indicates the Bayliner's location.
GPS tracks from last night
The 4788 Bayliner at Shipyard Cove this morning
Earning our keep:
Just returned from a five hour run to Snoring Bay at Sucia Island (about 50 yards wide.) A 48' Bayliner thought it was too rough to stay on a mooring when he decided to move. At that point things went south in this very small anchorage.
With two hours of daylight left, he decided to run for cover in the lee of Orcas Island, then his boat got sideways in the anchorage. Panic set in and he maneuvered the controls in the wrong direction, then the engines stopped. At that point he was backed into the corner of the anchorage, grounded and in trouble.
Capt. Deb Fritz, (former Zenith student of mine) in "Salvation" and I responded made the push through 3' seas in 45 minutes. The anchorage is so small and the conditions were so rough (35-40kts) that turning the rescue boat was a chore.
We quickly surmised that we'd put Deb's boat on a buoy, and have her work as my deck hand. She did a masterful job in securing the tow line and calming the owner. Once we had the boat off the wall, Deb took his dingy back to "Salvation" and follow us to Friday Harbor with the dink in tow.
We repeated the process when we arrived back in Friday Harbor at 01:20. She docked "Salvation," and brought the dink back to the Bayliner to assist with lines and help guide me in to the dock. Her partner Andrew met us and handled lines on the dock.
While he is a Vessel Assist Member, this case is an insurance claim.
Once again we could have claimed salvage for saving the boat, but did not. We did charge fees for working at night, against a rocky lee shore in gale force winds with a large vessel.
And so it goes.
(Ed. note: More comments on this post than any in the history of BE.)
Sunday, July 12, 2009
BitterEnd Traffic
Click on image to enlarge
Dot sizes: 
= 1,000+ 
= 100 - 999 
= 10 - 99 
= 1 - 9 visits
| 15 Jan 2009 to 12 Jul 2009: 61,793 visits shown above |
Total since 14 Jan 2008: 186,141
Kinda Snotty
We're make way (slowly) to Friday Harbor in a 3' chop.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Saturday, July 11, 2009
USCGC Terrapin (87')
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
30' Islander Disabled & Sound Watch Experience
This afternoon I had an issue with the good folks at Sound Watch (a group of mostly volunteers) who sometimes get a little over zealous in protecting and educating people about Orcas.
Sound Watch called me on the vhf and Vessel Assist Center, from California, answered up. SW then proceeded to tell Center that I'd just run over a pod of whales (not so.) In fact I was running off shore 90 degrees from the whales.
I called Sound Watch on the radio to get their cell. They agreed that I'd not erred. To set the record straight I asked that they call Center back tell them what occurred. They asked for the phone # and I requested they make the call via radio so all who had been listening would know the scoop.
Thanks Sound Watch for making the correction.
Mistakes in any business or organization will happen. How folks respond is the test of character.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Another 28' Bayliner
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Meanwhile down the coast in San Diego
Our friends at Vessel Assist San Diego sent along the following:
Vessel Assist raises 56′ yacht after it was dropped off of a delivery ship
What should have been a basic delivery of a brand new yacht on Saturday turned into a wild experience and a wreck removal from the depths of San Diego Bay. Around 10:30 am on June 27, 2009 the “Vessel Assist Shelter Island” was on its way to the 10th Ave Terminal to pick up a crew from the pier and deliver them to a new yacht that was just shipped in. Robert Butler, President of Vessel Assist San Diego, received a call from the delivery crew saying that the yacht was adrift and that they needed to be brought directly to it. Robert immediately called Captain Eric Lamb and informed him that the boat was let loose before the delivery crew could get on board. The yacht, valued in excess of 1.5 million dollars, was adrift as the incoming tide was pushing it toward the Coronado Bridge.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Polar Endeavour
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Good Sam underway this afternoon off Upright Head
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Water in the Engine
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Doing the right thing
Sometimes you've just got to bite your lip. This morning a call came in from Dispatch on the East Coast - a member with a fouled prop at Neah Bay (80 miles from here) called for a diver.
While Vessel Assist approved the run and a diver (probably 11-12 hours round trip,) I suggested a local diver could get the job done in a more timely basis.
Twenty four years of work with the Boy Scouts of America inculcated a standard of ethics that is important.
Even with the number of call being down a bit, due to the economy, I know that folks remember us for making the right call.
Email: Are Bayliners Bad?
Hi Richard;
I met you briefly last year at Rocky Bay Cafe and got my prized BE cap. This year I am in the market for a boat suitable for my family (wife and three young kids) that would sleep all of us for a night or two. This would be our first boat.
From your blog I am leery of Bayliners, but then again I know several owners that sing their praises. Since there are SO many Bayliners out there, I wonder if it is a matter of numbers - i.e., there is a large population of Bayliners and therefore owners and a wide spectrum of experience and/or abilities.
I would appreciate your thoughts on this at your convenience.
Best regards,
Travis A
------------------------
Hi Travis,
Indeed it is sheer volume. There are also a number of new owners with Bayliners.
I believe there are several decisions you should make.
How much $ you want to spend. Don't forget maintenance, insurance, moorage, fuel, and additional equipment.
Decide how you will use the boat and the speed you are comfortable with.
By all means take a boating safety course. The Power Squadron here does an excellent job.
Some folks will charter a boat for several days to see if it's what they want.
Then go shopping for a boat.
Give me a call, I'd be happy to share a cup of coffee with you.
Indeed it is sheer volume. There are also a number of new owners with Bayliners.
I believe there are several decisions you should make.
How much $ you want to spend. Don't forget maintenance, insurance, moorage, fuel, and additional equipment.
Decide how you will use the boat and the speed you are comfortable with.
By all means take a boating safety course. The Power Squadron here does an excellent job.
Some folks will charter a boat for several days to see if it's what they want.
Then go shopping for a boat.
Give me a call, I'd be happy to share a cup of coffee with you.
-Richard
Thursday, July 9, 2009
More fuel issues
This 20' Rinell had fuel issues in President's Channel last evening. The case was complicated by the boater reading the position of his cursor and not the position of the boat. That error cost .4 hours of time ($90.)
We ended up pulling him to the ditch on Orcas. A total of 3.25 hours in the job for this non member.
I took the gang back to Beach Haven where they were staying after we secured the boat.
Ran into old buds at the ditch, Capt. (Dr. ) Lew Thomas, and former student Capt. Robin Watson.
Nautical Chart Reprints
From Today's Notice to Mariners
Mariners will have the latest information under a new initiative in navigation chart reprinting. Beginning immediately, NOAA will provide revised
reprints to distribute up-to-date critical information on nautical charts.
A revised reprint nautical chart incorporates all U.S. Coast Guard Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) and all National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
(NGA) Notice to Mariners (NM) issued since the current edition date. A revised reprint will be published when printed stock of the current edition
is low. In the past, when a chart was running out of stock, NOAA would print more copies of the same chart without applying updates. The
revised reprint will contain all critical corrections applied before the chart is printed. They are similar to the NOAA’s Print on Demand (POD)
charts, but are lithographically printed according to traditional paper chart standards.
Revised reprints offer the convenience and added measure of safety of a chart that is updated at time of purchase. The lower left corner of a
revised reprint nautical chart will contain the edition number of the chart with the edition date, the words “Revised reprint,” along with the dates
of the NGA Notice to Mariners and the U.S. Coast Guard's Local Notice to Mariners available at time of printing.
As with all nautical charts, revised reprints should be updated with all critical corrections issued after the “corrected through” dates.
A listing of upcoming new edition and revised reprint charts published by NOAA is available at nauticalcharts.noaa.gov.
NOAA info is HERE.
Bayliner out of fuel, twice today.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
BOATERS URGED TO SPEAK UP ON ETHANOL INCREASE
MESSAGE RELAY FROM THE RECREATIONAL BOATING ASSOCIATION OF WASHINGTON-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contacts:
Scott Croft, BoatU.S. 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com
Christine Pomorski, NMMA, 312-737-9774, CPomorski@NMMA.org
Boaters Urged to Speak Up on Ethanol Increase Before July 20 Deadline
EPA Comment Period on Proposal for E15 Gasoline Closes in Two Weeks
ALEXANDRIA, Va. July 7, 2009 - The idea of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allowing the introduction of a fuel that has never been independently tested for use with marine engines has Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatU.S. and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (www.BoatUS.com/news/reports urging every boater in America to speak out on the issue before the July 20 federal comment period closes.
In March, Growth Energy, a pro-ethanol lobbying organization, and 54 ethanol producers petitioned the EPA to allow an increase in the amount of ethanol in gasoline from 10 percent (E10) to 15 percent (E15). After an initial comment period that drew nearly 30,000 comments from concerned boaters, the marine industry, marina operators and many other boating groups, the agency extended the comment deadline to July 20.
BoatU.S. and the NMMA are concerned because boat engines are not designed, calibrated or certified for use with gasoline containing more than 10 percent ethanol. Recreational boat warranty documents and manufacturers owner's manuals currently advise boaters not to use gasoline containing more than 10 percent ethanol, and therefore, the use of E15 in marine engines could void engine warranties and damage motors and fuel systems.
"This is not about growing renewable energy," says BoatU.S. Vice President of Government Affairs Margaret Podlich. "This is really about a group of investors attempting to profit at the expense of 13 million recreational boat owners. We had significant problems with the nationwide roll-out of E10 a few years ago, and without further independent testing of E15 with marine engines we are very likely to see similar issues." Podlich is referring to the widely known problems with ethanol's ability to attract water into gasoline or "phase separate" which has led to boat engine failures and major repair or replacement costs for boaters. It also degrades fiberglass boat gas tank walls.
If the ethanol lobby's petition is approved it would also affect other gasoline powered products. "There are an estimated 500 million gasoline powered engines in the U.S., from boats and autos to chainsaws, lawn mowers and ATVs, so this issue not only severely impacts the recreational boating industry but many others as well," said NMMA Legislative Director Mathew Dunn. "We have a very simple position on this matter. Science -- not politics -- should ultimately determine EPA's decision on whether to allow the sale of any increased ethanol blend that's more than 10 percent. At present, it is clear there is insufficient scientific and technical data to justify granting the increase, and EPA should therefore deny it outright," he added.
Boaters can go to http://www.BoatUS.com/gov or http://capwiz.com/nmma/home/ before the federally mandated comment period ends on July 20 to learn more and send EPA an email asking them to deny the petition for a waiver for the use of E15 fuel until more testing is done on marine engines and fuel systems.
###
Links to Additional Resources:
1. NMMA Government Affairs Ethanol Information
2. New York Times, May 8, 2009: Ethanol Industry's 15% Solution Raises Concerns
3. New York Times, May 8, 2009: Laboratory Will Not Certify Pumps for Gas with 15% Ethanol
4. Wall Street Journal, April 17, 2009: EPA Considers Higher Ethanol Mix
5. New York Times, March 6, 2009: A Slugfest Over Higher Ethanol Blends
About BoatU.S.:
BoatU.S. - Boat Owners Association of The United States - is the nation's leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 600,000 members with government representation, programs and money saving services. For membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.
About NMMA:
NMMA is the leading association representing the recreational boating industry. NMMA member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, accessories and gear used by boaters in North America. The association is dedicated to industry growth through programs in public policy advocacy, market statistics and research, product quality assurance and promotion of the boating lifestyle. Visit www.NMMA.org for more information.
Meanwhile, across the pond
MailOnline is reporting:
As he began his daring overtaking manoeuvre, Arthur Manning wondered if he was sailing a little close to the wind.
In fact, he was too close to the rocks. His yacht, the Jersey-registered Knight Star, ended up grounded and then wobbling in mid-air on its 6ft keel as the tide went out near Saint-Quay-Portrieux, north-west France.The complete MailOnline post by Peter Allen is here.
(Ed. note: Thanks to BE reader Don for the above link.)
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Rigs of Rods
What is it?
Rigs of Rods (also known as RoR), is an Open Source truck, car, airplane and boat simulator. You can drive, fly or sail in total freedom in an open environment. What makes RoR different to most simulators is its unique soft-body physics: vehicles chassis and wheels are simulated in real-time as flexible objects, giving the simulation an extremely accurate behavior, while allowing the vehicles to be simply specified by their structural composition, as a network of interconnected nodes (forming the chassis and the wheels). Crashing into walls or terrain can permanently deform a vehicle in a realistic manner. In addition to its unique soft-body physics, RoR also features an advanced flight model based on blade element theory, allowing the accurate simulation of any airplane, base on their physical dimensions and wing airfoils. It also features an accurate buoyancy model based on elemental pressure gradients, enabling boats with complex hulls to move realistically in the swell.Rigs of Rods is an amateur game developed by Pierre-Michel Ricordel, aka Pricorde, and is a one man hobby development, with a $0 budget, that has started more than two years ago and is still continuing. Recently a second developer, Thomas, has joined the "team". He is also the donator and caretaker of the web sites. A growing community has build up since some time and has contributed many vehicles to the game.
Rigs of Rods page
Adventuress in San Juan Channel
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Lady Washington
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Not Remedy
This Vessel Assist 26' Shamrock is based at Shilshole Marina in Seattle where last night's tow ended. Former Assistance Towing student and current Zenith Maritime Instructor Capt. Wendell Brunk is her master.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Off Point No Point
The good news is that I'll stay at Amanda's (my way cool step child) apartment on Lower Queen Ann Hill in Seattle tonight. Guess who's buying breakfast.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Email from Vessel Adrift Strand
Thank you again for catching my runaway boat, I see the comments on your blog and it's true a "stupid charge" could have been assessed as well. When I went back to the boat I could not find a receipt, the wind probably took it, would it be possible to get a copy? Thanks again.
G.D.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
The long haul
Follow us on SPOT: http://tiny.cc/KbxLq
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Lost Dingy
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
OK ESN:0-7385592
SPOT Check OK.
ESN:0-7385592
Latitude:48.5399
Longitude:-123.0099
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:07/07/2009 14:00:25 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=48.5399,-123.0099&ll=48.5399,-123.0099&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
A Little Help from my Friends
Things are not always as they appear. While it looks like Remedy has Island Transporter on the hip, it just isn't so.
Former students, Capt. Terry Merritt (owner) and Capt. Steve Partridge, will occasionally let me raft to Transporter, when I end up in Anacortes after a long tow.
Thanks guys.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Short Tow
A membership that would have taken him to his vehicle some 30 miles from here would have cost less, some $175.50 less than his tow bill. We had 1.5 hrs in this run.
In addition he has now has to deal with taxis, and ferry schedules.
It really pays to belong.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Merchant Mariner Credential Posting Requirements
For professional mariners.
Even if you have the new MMC (passport style) license, you are still required to post it.
The CG National Maritime Center announcement is HERE.
Puget Sound from Space
via the International Space Station on 5/29/09
Puget Sound (Seattle) lies some 60 miles south of Friday Harbor. Some folks mistakenly call local waters Puget Sound, however we are more appropriately at part of the Salish Sea.
Original content here.
(Ed. note: Thanks to BE reader and FaceBook bud Sandy Konigmacher for the link.)
Caught in the act
BE reader, FaceBook bud, and fellow Anacortesite, Steve Monard found me working yesterday. I'd wondered if I'd have a chance to see "The World." Here's proof.
For those of you who may be wondering, I was beyond the Security Clearance Zone.
Thanks Steve.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Say it ain't so. Aground twice in 5 minutes.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
More Fish Bay Action
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Jump Starts Galore
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Whiskey Tango Foxtrox: More bad fuel.
Several folks were upset that I was speeding to prevent the strand from ending up on the rocks in a strong rip.
The good folks at Sound Watch came to my defense and cooler heads prevailed.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
The World
A crazy busy day here. More this evening and or tomorrow.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
No spare fuel filters...
We're enroute to Friday Harbor from Griffin Bay.
That's "The World" off our port quarter.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Friday Harbor Merchants Rejoice
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Comedy or Tragedy - You be the Judge
This 36' C&C was following the surveyor's instructions to run the old fuel out of the tank. I found them off Waldron Is.
In the half hour it took to try and bleed the engine they burned up the starter. The simple fuel delivery then turned into a tow.
But wait, there's more.
Twenty minutes into the tow their anchor deployed. It took 90 minutes to weigh it. Seems as though the anchor was not secured on the roller and MY towline caused the anchor to deploy. (That's never happened in 1,000 plus tows.). After reminding the strand that I'd passed HIM the bridle, there was no more discussion.
The good news was that we ended up in Anacortes and Trish returned to Friday Harbor in time for the annual fireworks show. We anchored out in Hick's Bay with the A-1 gang and watch both shows on San Juan and Lopez. Once again, Lopez kicked San Juan's butt.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Friday, July 3, 2009
Called Mayday...
The are lots-o-peeps out today.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Lummi Nation helps celebrate FH's Centennial and July 4
Lummi Nation Canoe off Shipyard Cove
from the Lummi Nation site:
We are Lummi. We are Coast Salish people with a rich history, culture and traditions. We are fishers, hunters, gatherers, and harvesters of nature's abundance. We envision our homeland as a place where we enjoy an abundant, safe, and healthy life in mind, body, society, environment, space, time and spirituality; where all are encouraged to succeed and none are left behind.
Related Journal of the San Juan's post by Richard Walker is HERE.
from the above article:
Canoes regularly plied the marine highway between the San Juan Islands and what is now Canada and mainland Washington state. Communities on the islands had different names then — p’kweekh-EEL-wuhlh, WH’LEHL-kluh, EH-leh-luhng, SMUH-yuh.
Adrift 2.0
A quick set and drift took me almost directly to the Trophy.
This case could have been salvage. We charged for the three hours invested plus a $100 call out (get out of bed) fee.
The owner wanted to know why so much. If he only knew cheap he got off.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Anacortes Ferry Traffic Backed up to Safeway
Adrift
At 19:40 we got a call from the Port of Friday Harbor Security about a vessel adrift off the Port's breakwater, near Beaverton Cove.
Upon arriving, the Port's skiff was preventing this vessel from playing bumper boats with the other vessels at anchor. I put her on Remedy's hip and headed for our dock. On the way I called the San Juan County Sheriff, and the Coast Guard with the vessel's information and the fact that we had her.
The owner is most probably in town; shopping, at dinner, or ......well at 21:30 with no call yet, your guess is probably as good as mine.
He'll be in for a surprise with no boat, an hour's worth of our time and and his vessel chained to a dock. Oh yea, we could have claimed Salvage on this one, but will not because of the circumstances.
And so begins the holiday weekend.
Water in the fuel & on the beach
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
OK ESN:0-7385592
SPOT Check OK.
ESN:0-7385592
Latitude:48.5338
Longitude:-122.9977
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:07/02/2009 09:47:28 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=48.5338,-122.9977&ll=48.5338,-122.9977&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Ripple Rock
The primary route north on the famed Inside Passage is via Seymour Narrows. Until 1958, that passage was obstructed by Ripple Rock. Numerous wrecks made that stretch of the passage north of Campbell River BC, daunting. In an amazing controlled explosion (largest non-nuclear explosion ever) Ripple Rock was pulverized.
You can read the entire account at Vancouver Island Bound, here.
(Ed. note: Thanks to BE reader Rod Pugh for the link.)
Update from Norton Rider: Here's a video of the Ripple Rock explosion:
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
The End is Near - Massive Ship to call on FH
MV The World will make a call here in Friday Harbor on Monday and Tuesday next week.
Info via Wikipedia:
The World flies a Bahamas flag and has a gross tonnage of 43,524 tons. The vessel is 644 feet (196 m) long, 98 feet (30 m) wide, and has a 22-foot (6.7 m) draft, 12 decks, and a maximum speed of 18.5 knots (34.3 km/h). The crew numbers 250.
The ship has 165 residential units (106 apartments, 19 studio apartments, and 40 studios), all owned by the ship's residents. The ship carries between 100 and 300 residents and their guests.
MV World Website
(Ed. note: I've never seen a vessel this large in our local waters. She will anchor out and tender folks in. For comparison, the WSF Super Class vessels are 2,813 gross tons. They are typically the largest vessels regularly plying local waters.)
The Looong Weekend Has Arrived
Just heard the Canadian Coast Guard asking for information on a lost 18' Bayliner off East Point, Saturna Island in the Strait of Georgia.
Note: There are six people aboard this open boat and the wind is blowing 15-25 kts.
Today is Canada Day and the Fourth of July is Saturday. The forecast is for warm weather.
Stay Tuned.
It's about time
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
| Office of Public Affairs
| ||||
| Coast Guard announces interim rule increasing limits of liability under Oil Pollution Act of 1990 | ||||
| WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard announced Wednesday the publication of an interim rule that adjusts limits of liability for vessels and deepwater ports under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. The interim rule, effective July 31, 2009, increases the current OPA 90 limits of liability for vessels and deepwater ports to reflect significant increases in the Consumer Price Index since the limits were amended by the Delaware River Protection Act of 2006. The interim rule also increases the current OPA 90 limit of liability for the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port to reflect Consumer Price Index increases since the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port limit was established by regulation in 1995. The interim rule amends Title 33, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 138, Subpart B. The proposal for this rulemaking (73 FR 54997) was published Sept. 24, 2008. A final rule will be published following the close of the public comment period Aug. 31, 2009. The public may view the interim rule in the Federal Register online at www.gpoaccess.gov/fr. The amendments also establish the methodology for appropriate future increases to liability limits to reflect significant increases in the Consumer Price Index. Such increases prevent the real value of limits of liability from depreciating over time from inflation, preserving the polluter pays principle embodied by OPA 90. The interim rule clarifies that OPA 90, single-hull, tank vessel limits of liability apply only to single-hull tank vessels tha carry, or are constructed or adapted to carry, oil in bulk as cargo or cargo residue. The clarification was not discussed in the proposal for the rulemaking and is needed to ensure that the rule is consistent with the OPA 90 statutory scheme. The Coast Guard encourages the public to participate in this rulemaking by submitting comments and related materials concerning the single-hull tank vessel limit of liability clarification to the docket by Aug. 31, 2009, at www.regulations.gov, docket number: USCG-2008-0007. All comments received will be posted without change. |
Western Explorer (new RIB)
Capt. Ivan Reiff orients passengers. Naturalist Monika Wieland (port quarter) listens intently.
From OrcaWhaleWatch.com:
The Western Explorer (15 passengers) is the only boat of its kind in Washington State, offering "expedition style" tours with the sun on your face and wind in your hair.
Dedicated and Responsible. As an active member of the Pacific Whale Watch Association, we’re dedicated to research, education and responsible wildlife and whale watching.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
