This article was published in Summer 2020 Nor’Easter for TONE (Tartan Owners Northeast; page 3). For the rest of the series go here. Editor’s Note: At the time of the composition of this article, the United States was in “Shelter in Place” mode due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Though some of the restrictions have eased, […]
Suddenly in Command: Spare Parts and Tools
This article was published in Winter 2020 Nor’Easter for TONE (Tartan Owners Northeast; page 3). For the rest of the series go here. It’s 4:00pm and the last tender from Grand Cayman Island left the dock an hour ago. Everyone’s safely on board and we’re heading for Cozumel. As I prepare to get ready for […]
Suddenly in Command ~ Check Your Emergency Equipme...
Woohoo! Boating season is here. That means it’s time to check your emergency (safety) equipment. There’s nothing worse than being out on the water when an emergency strikes. Your loved one or friend becomes suddenly-in-command. They can’t find your equipment. Or, worse yet, it is old, falling apart or missing. According to the Chapman’s Piloting […]
A Day in the Life of a Seafarer
Some will argue life at sea was easier back before regulations were established by the IMO, US Coast Guard and ABS. But was it really? Most of the ships were Foreign Flags. That meant long tours of duty and no union. Today you’ll find seafarers prefer American flagships; the pay is better, and they’re unionized. […]
Suddenly in Command ~ Preparation is Key!
“Thank you for the article – the message is fantastic – appropriate, timely and perfect. I love the photo, it speaks volumes…well done.” Sam Swoyer, TONE It’s funny how things happen. I struggled with this article’s topic until 2 weeks before it was due. I was waiting for a friend at the beach when I […]
Suddenly in Command ~ Murphy’s Law
This article was published in Summer 2017 Nor’Easter for TONE (Tartan Owners Northeast). for the rest of the series go here: by Robin G. Coles Suddenly-in-Command: Murphy’s Law! Don’t give up your compass, VHF radio or common sense just yet. Both brothers Murray and Murphy are coming for a visit. Murray’s the one that […]
Suddenly in Command ~ Know Your Crew; Keep Them Sa...
This article was published in Winter 2017 Nor’Easter for TONE (Tartan Owners Northeast). for the rest of the series go here: by Robin G. Coles They say the most successful businesses are those that work well with their employees. The same holds true with Captains of boats. The most successful trips are the ones who […]
Float Plans – Do You File One?
As the Miami Boat Show quickly approaches it reminds me of the many boaters who travel from all over the world to attend this show. And, I can’t help wondering if the guy I overheard on the bus trip from the parking lot to the Strictly Sail Show ever got his catamaran. If so, did […]
Boating Accidents in Florida – Press Conference
Since last June I’ve been writing and giving speeches for my Advanced Competent Communicator Award via Toastmasters. The project consists of 10 speeches. The last 5 of which are “Communicating on Video”. Project #4 is “The Press Conference”. The objectives are: — To understand the nature of a video broadcast press conference — To prepare for […]
Suddenly in Command ~ Engines
This article was published in Winter/Spring 2016 Nor’Easter for TONE (Tartan Owners Northeast). Inc. for previous articles go here: Ed.: This article is written for the “First Mate” – if you are frequently out on the water, it is important to know these basic procedures. Use this article to review with your Captain the location of the various buttons and levers […]