Friday, July 10, 2015

Evanston: bow wave; 2.5 alligators; safe race; Kill Devil explained; sea snake




        Many of us have observed bow waves, but not like this one.
        “Like a ship plowing through cosmic seas, runaway star Zeta Ophiuchi produces (an) arcing interstellar bow wave.”  Rather poetic and good for a science site.  It is theorized that Zeta Ophiuchi was flung on its solitary voyage when a companion star exploded into a super nova.

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        One of the most remarkable cruises presently underway is that of Dave Skaife along the Gulf Coast in his home built 14’ Paradox, starting in Texas to which he trailered his boat after shipping her from his home in Hawaii to San Diego, and heading for Florida.
        I have mentioned Dave before and may again.  I don’t think people who have not seen a Paradox understand just how small his boat is.  Dave is sailing and living aboard a hull only slightly more than half the size of GANNET.  I am interested and impressed.
        I wrote to Dave suggesting that he post scale photos, showing him on or in the boat or her moored near another boat 20’-25’ long.
        Dave emailed back:  “The Paradox is 2.5 alligators long at my current anchorage.  Not even going to try for that picture.  I get nervous just pulling up the anchor these days.”
        I wish him alligator free anchors and a fine cruise.

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        Tomorrow is the start of the Mackinac Race.  I know several participants.  I’ll be following online.
        I wish them fine and safe sailing.

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        From Jim, a permanent resident of the Outer Banks and small boat sailor, comes this clarification of town names and rum.
        I thank him.

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       I am molting.