Author Archives: captnmike

Videos on Americas Cup Technology

Posted on September 29, 2013 by captnmike

Recently I was sent several videos of the amazing technology of the Americas Cup AC 72 boats. I have arranged the videos below with a short description of each video so you can watch the ones you want. I hope … Continue reading →

Posted in Racing, Sailing and Boating Skills | Leave a comment

A weather radio can save your life (even if it doesn’t float)

Posted on September 25, 2013 by captnmike

EAR TO THE GROUND WITH DNR Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed October as Washington State Disaster Preparedness Month and NOAA Weather Radio Awareness Month. Consider a weather radio as your “first-alert” to the many types of hazardous events for which we … Continue reading →

Posted in Boating Safety | Leave a comment

The Untold 9/11 Boat Lift Story

Posted on September 25, 2013 by captnmike

Following the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers in 2001, a problem faced by many New Yorkers was how to get home. I remember pictures of people walking across bridges and other images of mass migration as people tried to … Continue reading →

Posted in History | Leave a comment

Special Notice To Mariners

Posted on September 23, 2013 by captnmike

Need to know how to contact the Coast Guard, either by phone or VHF radio?  Or what to do in an emergency on the water? Never fear, there is a FREE guide from the District 13 Coast Guard, covering these … Continue reading →

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Three Stopper Knots

Posted on August 21, 2013 by captnmike

Here are three different stopper knots for use on your sailboat. The Figure Eight Stopper Knot is probably the most popular Stopper Knot in use, named as it looks like a Figure 8, it’s in every sailing book. The Figure … Continue reading →

Posted in Boating Safety, Sailing and Boating Skills | Tagged , , | 6 Comments

Alki Point Lighthouse History & Tours

Posted on July 22, 2013 by captnmike

Have you ever wondered what the inside of a Lighthouse looks like? The Alki Point Lighthouse in West Seattle is open for FREE tours most Weekends from the first weekend in June to the last weekend in August (Current Tour … Continue reading →

Posted in Boating Safety, History, seattle | Tagged , , , , | 9 Comments

Washing Your Sheets, Halyards and Lines

Posted on June 4, 2013 by captnmike

Washing the lines and halyard that have been exposed to the elements over the winter is one of my spring rites of getting the boat ready for another sailing season. Washing lines can make them easier to handle, extend their … Continue reading →

Posted in Boat Maintenance, Boating Safety | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Sailing in Seattle on the Schooner Adventuress

Posted on May 28, 2013 by captnmike

Last fall I had a chance to sail on the Schooner Adventuress when the Mountaineers Sailing Group chartered it for an evening sail and potluck in Elliot Bay. Here are some of my observations and a few pictures from that … Continue reading →

Posted in History, Mountaineers Sailing | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments