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1. 

   Paddlemaker
   Member

   We might be getting to a point of micro managing individual decisions.   It is one thing to have a list of required equipment,  but it is another thing to say how it should be packed into the boat.   But then again,  this might solve some of my problems;  I have completed the challenge quite a number of times with my good friend and partner,  Mr. Savannah Dan.  We do argue a bit at times,  and sometimes it is how we pack the boat and how much stuff is on the deck,  etc, etc,  but with these new rules,  the chief will help moderate our discussions.  Chief,   we do have a center cockpit,   you are welcome to join us to be our offical moderator on each trip.   Maybe we could have drones do a fly over each day,  to ensure that the boat is packed properly.

   Two other thoughts:    the pygmy triple that I built and have completed quite a number of challenges,  only has one bulk head,  in the stern.    we do pack the boat in waterproof bags and tie them down so they act as air bags,  We did not put in the bow bulk head,  this allows easier packing and if necessary  or savannah dan wants to,  he could strech out and take a nap as I paddle.    With this rule no more naps for Dan.  (actually,  he is a great paddler and only takes a few breaks)  

   The watertribe is about is about pushing limits.   but now with these new proposed rules,  we can only push the limit to 80 percent.  

   Finally, equipment is only part of the issues,   ones mental state is key.   Maybe we could ask pelican to assess each participant to ensure that they are mentally ready.   Occassionally,  I have heard of water tribers who get tired,  even to a point that they start seeing things that are not there,  which could lead to impaired judgments.  Is the next rule,   manadatory rest stops?    

   I would encouage,   keep things simple.   We went from a "clan" that talked about taking dumps on movie producers lawns,  to telling people how to pack thier boats.   

   Posted 7 years ago #
2. 

   Chief
   Coastal Vagabond

   OK, a couple people mentioned that they don't have two or three bulkheads. Yes, I mentioned that in my post. As I said, you're the expert in your boat so figure something out.

   Take the Hobie AI or TI. They don't have bulkheads, but they do have three hulls. They accomplish more or less the same thing. Same with a Hobie Cat. Two hulls.

   Back to the AI. I still have to put everything in waterproof bags. I still have to make  sure the bow and stern are filled to prevent shifting, but I have to keep the weight in the bow and stern to virtually zero. I need to load my boat so that it is level with the heaviest items close to the center.

   Back to Hobie Cats and Beach Cats. I'm thinking a Hobie Bob on the mast is something to think about. Hmmmm, would that also work on a AI or TI? I have to think about that.

   Let's think about the Sea Pearl. If I remember correctly there are no bulkheads in a Sea Pearl at all. Most of the Sea Pearl captains I know are better sailors than me and I am sure they have figured out how to mitigate the  problem. Can they still turn turtle? Sure, but proper flotation and proper gear storage gives them a fighting chance. If they do go all the way over, I'd like to think they have Sea Tow insurance and it is tied into their SPOT's Help Message so they can get help without involving the Coast Guard.

   You call this micro managing??? I don't. It's practical, common sense seamanship.

   Posted 7 years ago #
3. 

   Chief
   Coastal Vagabond

   On more thing. Some people need to be told how to pack their boats. People who have successfully done a few challenges probably meet these guidelines already. Newbies might need a little help because the tendancy is to overpack

   But even so, there is plenty of latitude in the guidelines I am putting out there. What have I really said?

   • Don't overload your boat.
   • Make sure your boat is in proper trim.
   • Make sure your boat can survive a capsize and continue to finish the challenge.

    

   Each boat is different, so it is up to you as captain and crew to figure out how to accomplish those three points.

   Posted 7 years ago #
4. 

   Karank
   Member

   Wow! What a great thread! Best yet, ever.  The last four of my EC boats have had self bailing cockpits. Yes, two open holes in the bottom and they all could sail with holes in all of the sealed compartments.  Yeah. a lot of unicellular foam epoxied to the bottom and sides.   NOW, what has not been mentioned that is a real serious problem is when a boat turtles 180 deg.. A decked boat is almost as stable upside down as right side up.  My problem is not stability but too much stability.  Turning a decked boat back over is a rather difficult problem.  Example.... the PuddleDuck with side tanks is a bitch(dog) to right.... actually impossible without planning ahead.  It is just as stable if not more so than upright.  My point is that this question does not have a canned answer or formula.  The cat and trimaran are not rightable in most cases without special gear and much planning... including sinking a hull which is impossible without a very good plan and a lot of time in cold water.  Nothing is easy that is this much fun.  Another issue that I must mention.... is age, physical condition, strength, age.... Some of us are a bit "long in tooth", but wize.  (Spelling... I know but an s just is not rite. ha ha)

   Posted 7 years ago #
5. 

   SeaDawg
   Member

   Float / Stow Bags

   It might have been in this thread or a related one as to the Float Bags to keep everything in place and not sliding around the ends of the boat.  In addition to the Watershed Futa Stow Floats, which are dynamite, it appears that Salamander is carrying Wildwasser stateside.  

   http://salamanderpaddlegear.com/shop/new-items

   I've used the Ultranighter Large (43" long) and Small (32" long) in the past both for their intended purposes and also to provide floatation for a holed hull.  Good length inflation tubes on them prevents head in hatch contortions.

   See you at Camp Wright.

   SeaDawg

   Posted 7 years ago #
6. 

   ZeroTheHero
   Member

   given the diverse craft that show up on a beach for a WT event nothing that Chief comes up wil be a prefect fit for every boat.  However as people read this thread I think it should become obvious that no matter your chosen craft you should; seriously look at what modifications can be made to improve your craft's capsize recovery, be prepared to defend your decisions and reasoning to the inspector, and show expert ability in gear selection and packing skills.  When I really think about it this is the way I have always aproached a WT event.

   In my opinion this comes down to; know your craft and gear and be prepared to educate anyone who wants to know why you are an expert and your boat is sorted and ready to.

   Serious sailors/paddlers can spot B.S. a mile away on the beach.  Don't be that person.

   Posted 7 years ago #

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