Thinking about Stabilizers?

Tossed around on your boat it’s not a big problem anymore. Nowadays there are more ways than ever to keep your boat from rocking.

Marine stabilization systems are a big business, and many manufacturers set the competence on to keep your boat stable and able. However, with a large number of options, all demonstrating different advantages, choosing the right one for your boat/yacht can be difficult.

To help you simplify the decision on how to select the best stabilizer option for your yacht, we’ve grouped stabilizers on two main types for a simple comparative analysis:

• Fin stabilizers: Fin or small wing mounted on a ship that emerge laterally in such a way as to oppose unwanted rolling motions and contribute to its stability.

• Gyroscopic stabilizers: It is a computer controlled gyroscope, which iscomprised of a flywheel that spins at speeds of up to 10,700 RPM and is tilted fore and aft in a range of up to 140 degrees to counteract the wave motion imposed on a yacht. 

Benefits of Gyro Stabilizers:

• Greatly reduces the rocking motion of the boat and it comes in applications from 30′ to over 100′.
•  Gyros supplies much greater stabilization per pound than inert counterweight. 
•  Gyros are always located inside the hull where there is no risk of damage.
•  Comes in many different sizes and will work in multiple configurations depending on a yacht’s layout.

Things to consider about Gyro Stabilizers:

•  They take time to speed up.
•   Pan and tilt speed is limited.
•   Due to size, it could take a considerable amount space in the yacht.
•   Its cost is high due to  its advanced system

Benefits of Fin Stabilizers:

• They take up minimal interior yacht space.
• They don’t need warm up time, they can be turned on and start working immediately.
• They don’t run out of energy, but once the rams involved have reached the full extent of their travel, they can’t extract any more energy until the boat starts to roll in the other direction. 

Things to consider about Fin Stabilizers:

•  Fins are submerged and this makes them a lot more difficult to repair, which generally means an increase repair costs.

Which stabilizer suits you?

• High speed sports yachts: Gyro systems are good because they don’t require mounting external fins and usually need only electrical power and room to mount.
• Trawler type boats: These will most likely suit active fin stabilizers as their first line of stabilization technology. 
•  Boats at anchor: Zero–speed stabilization could fit perfectly this kind of boat, because this system uses the paravane rigging to deploy a special piece of gear that will sink easily and without resistance. A gyro system, which can also be used at speed; might be adequate enough for smaller boats in quieter anchorages.

Advances mean that stabilizers are improving at all the time. With a little more exploration, you can find the perfect system for your boat that will keep her steady, ready, and raring to go. Depending on the type of yacht you own, its layout and its intended use, – fin and gyro –should come out as the better option.

If you would like to install a Gyro stabilizer on your boat, please feel free to contact Whiticar, we can find and install your boat stabilizer, ship stabilizer, motor catamaran stabilizer, planning hull stabilizer, and a sport fishing boat stabilizer that effectively eliminates roll, list, and pitch motions.

Whiticar offers you a guaranteed product and services, we’ve partnered with Seakeeper Stabilizers, -the world leader in active gyro stabilizer technology for the leisure yacht and commercial marine industry- With Seakeeper we ensure you a pleasant navigation without the worry of spills and splashes, and the risk of motion sickness by simply eliminating between the 70 and 90% of exhausting and dangerous boat roll.

If you want to learn more about Whiticar’s work, we invite you to check out the stabilizer work done on the Boomer at https://youtu.be/8RHy6YUyMbU. This was the first major sea trial of the Seakeeper Model 26 gyro stabilizer newly installed on the Whiticar 76' Sportfish "The Boomer".

For more information, feel free to contact Whiticar Boat yard at: (772) 287-2883 or visit our website http://whiticar.com/

HAULING OUT CATAMARANS IN SOUTH FLORIDA

By Capt. Jeff Werner



After spending almost a quarter century under sail, cruising catamarans are my favorite boats. As a professional captain, I have crossed oceans and seas on monohulls, catamarans and trimarans of all sizes, but it is always aboard a cat I am most happy to be at the helm. 

With the ownership of a cruising catamaran comes the responsibility of maintenance, and that responsibility includes annual haul outs. Finding a boatyard or marina with the capability to lift a wide beam vessel can be a daunting task. My unscientific survey of sailing catamarans 40- to 45-foot LOA revealed the average beam is 23 feet, with a loaded displacement of 17 tons. From 45- to 49-foot LOA, the numbers average 25 feet and 18 tons. And 50- to 54-foot LOA are 26 and a half feet and 25 tons in weight. You get the picture. Hauling out a sailing cat is not about weight; it's all about beam. 

Fortuitously, from Fort Pierce to Key West there is quite a election of full service locations to haul out a cat of at least a 23-foot beam for repair and maintenance. Owners of increasingly popular power catamarans, or sailing cats'with air drafts less than 54 feet, can take advantage of the boat yards tucked away behind low bridges.

Harbortown Marina in Ft. Pierce is located along the ICW just north of downtown. For sailing catamarans with masts taller than the ICW fixed bridged clearance of 65 feet, Harbor­town Marina has direct access to the Atlantic Ocean through Ft. Pierce Inlet, less than three miles away. Their 150-ton Trav­elift will haul out cats with a maximum beam of 26 feet. 772- 466-7300 harbortownmarina-fortpierce.com

Head south along the ICW to Manatee Pocket at Stuart to find the South Florida boat yard for Hinckley Yacht Services. It has easy access from the ocean via St. Lucie Inlet; just watch out for the strong currents and shifting sandbars at the junction of the inlet and the ICW. Although Hinckley's heritage embraces building fine monohull cruising sailboats, the Hinckley brand has grown in the past 20 years to include jet drive picnic boats and runabouts with classic lines and superior craftsmanship. The maximum beam Hinckley's 150-ton Travelift can accommo­date is 25 feet. 772-287-0923; hinckleyyachts.com

Cruise west from Manatee Pocket along the Okeechobee Waterway to American Custom Yachts. This boatyard is located at marker Red "46" just east of the St. Lucie Lock, and sits between two fixed bridges. There are several fixed bridg­es on the way from Manatee Pocket, with the lowest_ vertical clearance being 54 feet. If your mast is short enough to clear that Palm City Bridge, American Custom Yachts can use their 150-ton Travelift to put the straps around catamarans of up to 27-foot beam. 772-286-2835; americancustomyachts.com

The north end of the Gold Coast is the home of Rybovich. Their marine centers in West Palm Beach and Riviera Beach are located just south and north of Peanut Island along the ICW. Entering the ICW from Lake Worth Inlet avoids any bridge clearance problems. The newer Rybovich yard at Riviera Beach (561-863-4126) will accommodate cats up to a 26-foot beam on their 150-ton Travelift. The original West Palm Beach yard (561-844-1800) has a massive 660-ton Travelift, capable of handling cats up to 35-foot beam.

Heading up the New River past downtown Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of haul out possibilities. Before heading up river, however, one must remember the bascule drawbridges are locked down during morning and afternoon rush hours from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and 4:30 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Once through the William H. Marshall Memorial Bridge, just beyond the bend on the river that is home to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, continue on and choose the South Fork of the New River. 

Just before reaching the I-95 fixed bridge, note the Lauderdale Marine Center on the south bank. Lauderdale Marine Center is a combination full service and do-it-yourself boat yard encompassing 50 acres of land. It is a popular superyacht repair facility and its 300-ton Travelift can haul out catamarans up to 30-foot beam. 954-713-0333; lauderdalemarinecenter.com

To go upriver beyond the I-95 bridge, sailing catamarans must first negotiate the vertical clearance of 55 feet for that bridge. If your mast fits under that bridge, access to the boat yards along Marina Mile (State Road 84) is open.

Billfish Marina is the first haul out facility on State Road 84, and also has the smallest Travelift with catamaran capabilities. At 70 ton, it will lift a maximum of 23.5-foot beam, which is more than adequate for a 40-foot LOA cat. 954-587-6226; billfishmarina.com

Continuing west find Roscioli Yachting Center, a shipyard that has been in existence for 40 years and was completely renovated in 2008. It now has a 352-ton mobile lift capable of hauling out a catamaran with a maximum beam of 28 feet. 954-581-9200; rycshipyard.com

Source: Hauling Out Catamarans in South Florida, All At Sea - The Caribbean's Waterfront Magazine

Safety Equipment Required for Class “A” Recreational Vessels

 

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission communicates boating regulations in the state. This applies to vessels lesser than 16 ft. long, Canoes and Kayaks:

Carry personal flotation devices (PFDs):

The boat must have an approved Type I, II or III for each person on board or being towed on water skies etc. The flotation device Must be USCG-approved, in serviceable condition, and properly stored.

NOTE: A Type V hybrid may substitute for any Type I, II, or III device, but must be worn whenever the vessel is underway and the person is not in the cabin or other enclosed area.

When navigating in a vessel class A every person on board under the age of 6 must wear an approved Type I, II, or III while the vessel is underway.

If you have a personal watercraft (PWC) everyone on or operating it must wear an approved Type I, II, III or V PFD. The inflatable PFDs are prohibited.

Also, every person skiing or aquaplaning must wear an approved Type I, II or III PFD. Inflatable PFDs are prohibited.

 

Fire Extinguishers:

Make sure your fire extinguishers are USCG-approved - Must be in serviceable condition. An USCG-approved B-1 type fire extinguisher is required for all recreational motorboats except outboard-powered motorboats less than 26 feet long if constructed in a manner that will not allow gas fumes to accumulate.

If your boat has a built-in fuel tank, an inboard engine, compartments where portable fuel tanks may be stored, or open areas between the hull and deck where flammable or explosive gases could accumulate, you must carry a fire extinguisher. Non-motorized boats are exempt from the fire extinguisher requirements.

NOTE: When an approved fixed fire extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space(s), it may be counted in the place of one B-I type hand-held portable fire extinguisher. Some fire extinguishers require specific mounting brackets for approval. Read the label on your fire extinguisher for this information.

Visual Distress Signal:

It is required on the high sea and coastal waters only, and it has to be carried for nighttime use.

NOTE: Coastal waters means the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and all bays, sounds, harbors, rivers, inlets, etc. where any entrance is over 2 miles wide to the first point where the distance between shorelines narrows to 2 miles.

Sound-producing Device:

It could be a bell, horn, whistle etc. The regulation rule says that every vessel less than 12 meters (39.4 ft.) in length must carry an efficient sound-producing device. They don’t have any particular specifications; the vessel just needs to produce signals required by the navigational rules.

Backfire Flame Control:

There is a need to control backfire flame of all gasoline engines installed after April 25, 1940, except outboard motors. These backfire flame arrestors must be USCG approved.

Ventilation:

For boats built prior to Aug. 1, 1980 you must have at least two ventilator ducts fitted with cowls or their equivalent to ventilate the bilges of every closed engine and fuel-tank compartment on boats constructed or decked over after April 25, 1940, using gasoline as fuel or other fuels having a flash point of 110 degrees or less.

For boats built after Aug. 1, 1980 you must have at least two ventilator ducts for the purpose of efficiently ventilating every closed compartment that contains a gasoline engine and every closed compartment containing a gasoline tank, except for those having permanently installed tanks which vent outside the boat and contain no unprotected electrical devices. Also, engine compartments containing a gasoline engine having a cranking motor must contain power operated exhaust blowers which can be controlled from the instrument panel.

Vessel Lighting:

If you own a recreational vessel, remember that is required to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during periods of reduced visibility (fog, rain, haze, etc). The U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules specify lighting requirements for every description of watercraft.

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Boating Activities

Boating is a very rewarding pastime that everybody can enjoy. But, while out on the water, there are several things those boating can do. Everyone can find something they enjoy while boating. Here are some of our favorite boating activities:

• Relaxation: Being out on the open water, floating along, can be very relaxing. You’ll be surrounded by the sounds of the ocean: lapping waves, a breeze, some birds squawking overhead. These all make for a very peaceful time.

• Fishing: Everyone can enjoy fishing every now and then. You can even get yourself some nice dinner while fishing. Or, you can catch and release the fish. Either way, fishing is an activity that will for sure be an enjoyable experience

• Swimming: Of course, while boating, you can cool off by taking a dip in the water and swimming around. Whether you’re on a lake or in the ocean, a swim is sure to be very refreshing.

• Water Skiing: If you love to feel the spray of water and wind on your face, water skiing is an activity you’ll love. You can ski on the water and feel the exhilaration of zooming by wave after wave

• Tubing: Water skiing isn’t for everyone. But if you still want the experience of zooming through the water, tubing could be your solution. Children also will enjoy tubing if they are not able to water ski.

• Sightseeing: The Ocean is a beautiful place. No matter where you go, you’ll have a nice view of the water or the horizon or the land in the distance. You may even see some fantastic animals while out on the water, like dolphins or whales. 

• Bonding: The experience of boating is one you can share with friends and family. You’ll be sure to have a great time, made better by spending it with those you love. It can be a great bonding experience for all of you.

Next time you’re planning to go out boating, remember all these activities you can do. And always remember that for any boating concern you may have, Whiticar Boat Works will be there for you to help you in every way we can.

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works. We have two locations in the Treasure Coast for your convenience:

STUART, FL location:  3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996.

FT. PIERCE, FL location: 2010 Harbor Town Drive,Suite K,              Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com

Whiticar Boat Works of Stuart, Florida Named Boatyard of the Year by the American Boat Builders & Repairers Association

Four Other Industry Leaders in Florida, Rhode Island and North Carolina Receive ABBRAAwards of Excellence from the National Group

Fort Lauderdale, FL – January 26, 2015 – The 2015 Boatyard of the Year honor was presented to Whiticar Boat Works of Stuart, Florida at the American Boat Builders & Repairers Association (ABBRA) Boatyard Business Conference Awards Dinner held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida from January 21st –23rd. Given to a service or repair facility that demonstrates excellence in all facets of their company through commitment to customer service, quality management, stewardship in environmental and safety issues, and positive vendor and employee relations. This award is one of ABBRA’s most prestigious Awards of Excellence. Jim Dragseth, president of Whiticar Boat Works accepted the award.

Located on Willoughby Creek just two miles east of the St. Lucie Inlet on the east coast of Florida, Whiticar has been in continuous operation for the past 60 years. Ownership of the company has passed between fathers and sons, and so too has the dedication to superior workmanship, outstanding customer service and in-depth knowledge of the boating lifestyle. The company was founded by Curt Whitcar who was later joined by his brother-in-law John Dragseth to run the business. The facility is designated a Florida Clean Boatyard by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Jim Dragseth and John Whiticar are at the helm leading the company into the modern era. Their expansions have included the establishment of Shearwater Marine in 1996, Whiticar Custom Boats in 2000 (Building boats since the 1930’s), Whiticar Marine North in 2003, and Whiticar Yacht Sales in 2004. ABBRA president John Fitzgerald said, “Whiticar employs a wonderful array of talented professionals and the company relies on the old fashioned pride they take in a job well done. However, lest you think, they are a relic of past success, their web presence features two Facebook pages, a Twitter feed, Youtube videos and a blog! They are a wonderful example of the great tradition of ABBRA boatyards with a storied past and a determination to service their customers into a bright future.”

Dragseth said, “It is humbling and very rewarding to be recognized by ABBRA, Thank you very much for this honor.” Whiticar Boat Works joins a group of several other distinguished boatyards around the country to receive the Boat Yard of the Year award. These include facilities such as Thunderbolt Marine in Georgia, Front Street Shipyard in Maine, Jarrett Bay Boatyard in North Carolina, Newport Shipyard in Rhode Island, and Keefe Kaplan Maritime in California that are recipients of the ABBRA Boatyard of the Year honor.

About American Boat Builders & Repairers Association (ABBRA)

Founded in 1943, ABBRA is a national marine trade organization that represents, is dedicated to, and seeks to strengthen and encourage professionalism in the boat building, boat repair, and marine service industry.

For more news, visit our website: whiticar.com

Source: whiticar.com

Boating in Bad Weather

While out boating, weather changes can happen quickly around you. In the case that you are out on the water and it seems bad weather is rapidly approaching, you should try to get to shore if possible. However, it is not always possible to get to the shore in the case of bad weather. In that case, there are some things that you should remember if you are ever boating in bad weather. 

Preparedness: While heading out to see, you should check the weather forecasts for any chance of approaching bad weather. In the case of bad weather, it is best to not head out to sea at all. If forecasts show no or little chance of bad weather, it is still important to have all the supplies ready in case the weather quickly changes.

Body of Water: The body of water you are in will affect the waves around you. Deep waters will have slower, more rolling waves that should be easier to manage. However, in shallower water, the same wind can create bigger waves that become more dangerous.

Knowing boat: Be aware that no two boats will react in the same way to different weather conditions. Even two boats with the same design will react differently due to other factors besides the design, such as the load. Make sure you know how your boat reacts to bad weather.

Move at 45°angles: Moving at an angle of 45° will be much safer, whether you are moving parallel to the waves or away from the waves. This angle will allow you to lessen the strain put on the hull, avoid running in the trough of the waves (which can make your boat roll excessively), and avoid too high speeds when running ahead of the waves. If an angle of 45° will take you off course, then you can move in a zigzag pattern and will remain headed in the same direction.

Heaving to: Sometimes, conditions may be too severe to continue on course. In this case, you could heave to, a way of slowing the boat.

Boating is a fun activity for all to joy. However, one should always be mindful of the weather conditions. In the case that you are out boating, remember some of these facts. 

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works. We have two locations in the Treasure Coast for your convenience:

STUART, FL location:  3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996.

FT. PIERCE, FL location: 2010 Harbor Town Drive,Suite K,              Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com

whiticar.com 

Tips on Cleaning Your Boat

Boating is a fun activity that anyone can enjoy. But, to get the most out of the experience, you want to make sure that you have a clean environment to enjoy it in. Here are some great tips to remember about keeping your boat clean:

Exterior:

• Keep all materials handy, including a brush with a long handle and bristles that won’t scratch finish, large bucket, sponge or washcloth, towels, and chamois cloth to dry boat

• Only brush and scrub boat when wet

• Rinse boat with fresh water

• Lather areas with sponge and soapy water, starting high then gradually moving downward to avoid getting suds on already cleaned areas

• Avoid allowing suds to dry by only cleaning one area at a time

• Use brush to scrub away dirt and grime then rinse

• Use chamois cloth to dry the boat so the water won’t form spots when it dries 

• Wax fiberglass boat’s to protect the shine of its finish.

Interior:

• Vacuum carpets to remove loose dirt

• Use stain removers for any stains found on the carpet

• If possible, steam clean starting from one area and moving back to avoid stepping on cleaned areas before they dry 

Otherwise, clean with a brush and soap still avoiding stepping on cleaned areas Use vinyl cleaners with protectants for upholstery to clean and protect against sun exposure

• Remove mildew stains and use mildew preventative sprays

Hopefully, these tips will help you out next time you clean your boat. Remember, a clean boat is your best boat!

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works. We have two locations in the Treasure Coast for your convenience:

STUART, FL location:  3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996.

FT. PIERCE, FL location: 2010 Harbor Town Drive,Suite K,               Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com