I had to chance to visit Jim Betts’ shop in Anacortes again yesterday. I thought I would see how Alex’s new mast is coming along.  He has a new CNC cutter! No need to get in line at Janicki any more. See http://www.jbeinc.com/

I expect there to be a number of sightings of Gecko out sailing in the coming couple of weeks. New owner will be playing in the local waters for a while.

I seem to have my head down this week submitting as many USCG heavier passenger documents as I can.  Pontoon boats are to blame for all this, but thats for a later time. So for now, a nice tease. Spirit of Lauderdale (formerly Yellowbird).  A KHSD 48.
http://www.tropicalsailing.com/gallery.php#video

And in the winter, they have the Moondance Cat (KHSD55) which normally resides in Buffalo in the summer.  And some other cat I don’t recognize (ya hear, Roger?)

I just added comprehensive and collision insurance to my liability policy with Progressive. This as the new owner wants to take a test drive of a week on the Geko. Added cost, $100, until end of November. That seems pretty damned great to me.

Another picture of Simmo scaring the natives again with his KHSD 24 tri. As noted earlier, Simmo seems to thrive on conditions that terrify many sailors. Lets do the new amas and give it an even bigger ride.

Very important topic. Especially we with several hulls. I understand that I can become an outlaw just scrubbing slime. I can see it now…, “what are you in for?” “Scrubbing slime.”
http://www.proboatradio.com/2011/07/13/copper-bottom-paint-regulations-and-alternatives/
and Simo’s new pictures tomorrow. I’m deep into the USCG updates today.

This may be one of the best examples of why a trimaran needs big amas way out there. http://www.cowesonline.com/d/Round%20the%20Island%20Race%20Lge.mov
It could happen to anyone, but a properly built KHSD tri could not push an ama under like that. Long ago when I used to sail the Shaman like a maniac I learned that first hand. We used to watch a foot or so of board sticking out the bottom of the main hull. Big amas way out there are a requirement.
I notice it is not very reefed. Another case of not playing “what-if?” I always tell people to play “what-if” on design features. Don’t accept a famous design because it is Travertine 33 or whatever. Ask “what -if” about all the features. Same thing with sailing.  What if we have to round up for some reason? How do we want to be configured when we turn the corner?

Unless its Simo, then all bets off.