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10 interesting fun facts about boats that you did not know

Aug 05, 2020

less than a min

Boats are very interesting vessels. Here are some fun facts about boats that you might not have heard about.

• Good luck and back luck omens are different on a boat than on dry land. For instance, whistling on a boat is expected to bring upon strong winds and is therefore considered bad luck. Bananas on a boat are also seen as bad luck especially on fishing boats. It is thought that fish do not bite on a hook if there are bananas close by. Finding a cat on a boat on the other hand is considered good luck, even if it is a black cat. Cats eat rats and keep the boat clean and safe.
• The youngest person to sail around the world is Laura Dekker. She is a 14-year old that went off to sail around the world in 2012 and finished her trip 518 days later when she was 16.
• A party yacht has tripped over once as all the passengers moved to one side to have a better look at a nudist beach in Texas.
• A 2004 study has confirmed that joining a cruise ship after retirement is cheaper than retiring to a retirement home.
• The difference between a boat and a ship lies in its weight. If a vessel is over 500 tones then it is called a ship. A ship can also carry a boat.
• The first ship to reach America only had 40 people on board, including Christopher Columbus. It was the size of a bus and it did not exceed 70 feet.
• According to evidence found by several archeologists, boats have been used over 900.000 years ago.
• Americans own about 18 million boats today. Some of them are used for recreational purposes while others are commercial boats.
• Boats have a life expectancy. After that, they are not deemed safe or stable anymore. Usually, cargo ships that sail in the oceans can have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. Sailboats are meant to be used for 30-40 years even if they are made of softer materials such as plywood or fiberglass.
• Vasa is a Swedish warship that is known for sinking in 1628 and being recovered in 1961. After spending centuries in the water, this boat was still completely intact and in good shape. It is actually the only vessel left from the 17th century. This boat now lies in the Vasa Museum of Stockholm which was built as a tribute to this ship. It is now one of Sweden’s most popular attractions. It receives almost 30 million tourists.

Explore TheBoatAPP to learn more interesting information about boats and their features. Discover how to maintain, manage, and preserve a boat through the complete database of TheBoatAPP. Become a boat master in no time!

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December 14

Fun Facts About Yachts: Surprising Trivia About These Iconic Vessels

YACHT UNIVERSITY BLOG

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Yachts are a symbol of luxury and extravagance, often associated with the rich and famous. But beyond their opulent appearance and high price tags, yachts have a rich history and many interesting facts that may surprise you. In this blog post, we’ll explore some fun facts about yachts that you may not have known before.

• The word “yacht” comes from the Dutch word “jacht,” which means “hunt.” Originally, yachts were small, fast sailing vessels used by the Dutch navy to pursue pirates and other ships.
• The world’s largest yacht, the Azzam, measures a staggering 180 meters (590 feet) in length. Owned by the Emir of Abu Dhabi, it reportedly cost over $600 million to build.
• The fastest yacht in the world is the World Is Not Enough, which set a speed record of 70.86 knots (81.6 mph) in 2004. It was built for the James Bond movie of the same name.
• The first yacht club in the world was the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Ireland, founded in 1720. Today, there are thousands of yacht clubs worldwide.
• The first motor-powered yacht was the Vector, built in 1888 by American engineer George Lawley. It was powered by a one-cylinder gasoline engine and could reach a top speed of 6 knots.
• The Queen’s yacht, the HMY Britannia, was decommissioned in 1997 and is now a floating museum in Edinburgh, Scotland. It was used by the royal family for over 40 years and hosted many state visits and royal events.
• Yachts were once used as a means of transportation for the wealthy. In the 19th century, it was common for wealthy families to travel by yacht between their homes in different locations.
• Yachts are often equipped with luxurious amenities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and even helipads. Some even have movie theaters, bowling alleys, and basketball courts.
• The cost of owning and maintaining a yacht can be astronomical. According to some estimates, it can cost up to 10% of the yacht’s value each year to maintain it.
• Yachts can be environmentally friendly too. Some yachts are equipped with solar panels, wind turbines, and hybrid engines to reduce their carbon footprint and lower their impact on the environment.

Yachts may be symbols of extravagance, but they also have a rich history and many interesting facts. From their origins as Dutch naval vessels to their luxurious amenities and high cost of ownership, yachts are truly unique vessels that capture our imagination and fascination.

Trivia about yachts, Yacht Crew, Yacht fun fact, Yachting.

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25 Interesting Facts About Sailing You Probably Don't Know

Sailing is a very popular sport, and it has had a large influence on modern life. I've came across lots of interesting facts about sailing, and list them here.

With such a rich history there are many interesting stories to tell. It has shaped our language and the way we see the world today. Our society and free trade is built on the tradition of sailing.

So in this post I've listed all sorts of interesting sailing facts that I came across while researching the articles on this website. Most of them are beyond the obvious. Surely, the trade winds are named after the trade they facilitate? No, it's actually the other way around.

On this page:

1. sailboats are slow (but efficient), 2. trade is named after the trade winds, not the other way around, 3. sailing gives you access to places that are off-limits to tourists, 4. the ideal wind speed for sailing is between 8-12 knots, 5. historical sailboats are often misrepresented, 6. you can operate a 100' sailboat alone, 7. the youngest person to circumnavigate the world was 16-year old laura dekker, 8. feeling blue is originally a sailing term, 9. one of the best laser radial sailors is from the netherlands, 10. sailing has been a part of the olympics from 1896 onwards, 11. 'sonofagun' actually refers to your birthplace, 12. the average salinity of oceans is 3.5% - but it varies greatly, 13. the world-record sailing speed is 65.45 knots (75 mph), 14. you can sail for nearly 22,229 miles in a straight line, 15. the first person to circumnavigate the world alone was joshua slocum (1898), 16. the new york yacht club has one of the longest winning streaks in sports history, 17. the largest sailing yacht in the world is nearly 470' or 143 m long - or not, 18. sailing around the world westward is more difficult than eastward, 19. 'he's a loose cannon' ..., 20. the most popular sail rig is based off a moorish lateen rig, 21. the only 5-masted tall ship sunk because of its speed, 22. the smallest boat to sail around the world was 21 feet, 23. sailboats can sail faster than the speed of the wind, 24. the sailing flags originate from the dutch war efforts against the british, 25. the mightiest pirate was a female chinese prostitute.

The average sailboat cruises at about 4-6 knots, (4-7 mph or 7-11 km/h) and has a top speed of 9 knots (10 mph or 17 km/h). It's just not that fast. That isn't to say there aren't any quick boats: they can be incredibly fast. Especially the multihulls, which have to displace a lot less water. They can go up to 50 knots (almost 60 mph or 93 km/h).

Most sailboats are slow is because they are small (under 20') - and the hull speed is directly related to the length of the boat. Longer sailboats are faster.

So how is a sailboat able to go around the world in under 75 days? Well, they go on all day and night. Also, traveling on water allows you to go in straight lines more often than on land.

Want to know how far a sailboat can sail in a day ? Check out my other article on the average sailing distance in different conditions (new tab).

Our ancestors found that the Atlantic had very reliable wind roads. These roads were called trade winds, trade being the Middle English word for 'track' or 'path'. The trade winds were so important for the English fleet and economy that the name 'trade' became generally accepted to mean (foreign) commerce'.

If you want to learn how the trade winds work , I recommend to read my post on the Atlantic Crossing .

Did you know that there are a lot of small island that are off-limits to tourists? Some of these islands are real hidden gems, with exotic species, wonderful landscape, and authentic villages. There are no flights or cruises going there - but you can get there by boat.

It can be quite the experience to sign in to the island in a 40-year old ledger, with under 200 names in there.

The easiest wind to maneuver small and mid-sized boats is between 8-12 knots, while still being able to reach good speeds.

Anything between 5-8 knots is ideal for beginners that are trying to learn to sail. Anything under 5 knots gets tediously slow.

If you like to learn more about wind speeds, I really go into detail in my previous post Ideal Wind Speed for Sailing .

When we think of old skool sailboats (of the late Middle Ages for example), we often thing of large galleons and first rates. However, due to a flaw in the design of the hull, the ship builders weren't able to build large ships until the Renaissance.

The extended beams, running across the entire length of the ship, were too weak, so they would rot out. Large experimental ships would find an early sea grave when they split into two and sunk.

So the huge floating multi-level buildings with 100 cannons only started to be made in the Napoleonic era, when they figured out you could use cross beams to reinforce the hull.

People often ask me what the biggest boat is they can operate. You can actually operate a 100' sailboat by yourself - if you rig it the right way.

World-record holder François Gabart operated the 100-foot Trimaran MACIF by himself. However, it's not easy and you have to be experienced and mentally tough. Most sailors seem to stay under 35 foot.

Sailing alone is also called short-handed sailing, and you need a short-hand sailing rig. Typically this means lot's of automated systems, and all the sheets running to your cockpit, allowing you to operate the sails while steering at the same time.

The hardest part of sailing by yourself may actually be the docking. Some marinas even offer a special service to help you with that, lending a helping hand. If you are inclined to sail alone (or don't have any friends), you should definitely consider switching to a marina that provides this service.

Sailing a bigger boat does have its advantages . They are more stable, for example. Find out all about boat size for single sailors in What’s the Largest Boat One Person Can Operate? (new tab)

16-year old Laura Dekker (NED) is the youngest person ever to circumnavigate the world solo, after Jessica Watson (AUS) did it just before her 17th birthday. Dekker was 16 and 123 days.

She almost didn't make it because of interference of the Dutch government, who didn't think it was a good idea for a teenager to sail the world. She proved them wrong in all sorts of ways.

The youngest circumnavigation isn't recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records, because they don't want to encourage 14-year olds to sail around the world alone.

If a ship lost its captain during a voyage, the sailors would sail blue flags, indicating their loss. So if you're feeling blue, you're actually referring to the blue flags that used to sign the ship's crew is in mourning.

Marit Bouwmeester is one of the most successful laser radial sailors in the world. She's a 4-time world champion and 1-time Olympic champion (2011, 2014, 2016, 2017), and came in second in 2010, 2012, 2015. She's recently won the World Cup in Enoshima, Japan.

Why does this matter? Well, she's from my neighborhood, and a friend of mine is one of her BFFs, which is pretty cool.

Sailing has been a part of all modern Olympic games, except for the 1904 Summer Games, which were held in Louisiana.

This makes it one of the longest running Olympic disciplines around. So if people ask you: 'is sailing a sport?', simply answer with: 'the International Olympic Committee has believed it to be, for over 120 years'.

It was a gender-mixed discipline for the most part, until 1988, making it one of the only sports where women and man join in open competition.

Great Britain currently holds the most Olympic medals.

In lesser days, women needed to be smuggled onboard. Then, when the passage took longer than expected, they naturally needed to give birth every now and then. On sea, women typically gave birth between the cannons on the gundeck. If the child wasn't claimed by one of passengers or sailors, it was entered in the ship's log as being the 'sonofagun'.

While 3.5% is the average, some seas are just very, very salty. Saline water - aka saltwater - increases metal and aluminum corrosion, so the saltier the sea, the more maintenance you'll need to do.

The Mediterranean is the saltiest sea on Earth, at roughly 3.8% salinity. The Southern Ocean and the Northern Pacific are among the least saline: 3.4% and 3.3%. The Caribbean are quite saline: between 3.6 - 3.7%.

So better sail to the poles, and stay away from the Mediterranean or Caribbean: your boat will last a lot longer. (I know, it's the worst advice.)

If you want to know more about saltwater sailing , for example how to prepare your boat, I encourage you to check out my post on saltwater boats here (new tab).

Paul Larsen (AUS) is the fastest sailor of all time. He holds the world-record sailing speed for 500 meters (also called outright), and the record for fastest nautical mile.

• Outright: 65.45 knots, which equals 121.1 km/h or 75.2 mph
• Nautical mile: 55.32 knots, which equals 102.45 km/h or 63.66 mph
• Fastest 24-hour: Pascal Bidégorry, 908 nm at 37.84 knots, which equals 70 km/h or 43.55 mph

Ok, it's mostly a theory of amateur cartographer David Cooke, who discovered the Cook Passage in 2015. It's a straight line running around the Earth from Port Renfrew, B.C to Quebec, without ever touching land. While critics claim it's impossible to navigate in a perfect straight line, it doesn't really matter. It's a cool theory, and it's the longest you can (theoretically) sail straight without touching land.

Making the world again a little smaller, Joshua Slocum was the first man to sail around the world by himself in 1898.

It took the world 69 years to catch up: the second attempt was by Sir Francis Chichester in 1967.

Slocum, a Nova-Scotian-born American, wrote a book about his journey in 1900, Sailing Alone Around the World, which became an international best-seller.

If you're interested, you can get his book for free on the Gutenberg project here .

The New York Yacht Club won the America's Cup 25 times for 132 years in a row, from 1851 to 1983. In 1987 challenger Royal Perth Yacht Club ended the streak. Since then, the NYYC hasn't won the cup a single time.

World Cup wins:

• United States New York Yacht Club: 25
• New Zealand Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron: 3
• United States San Diego Yacht Club: 3
• Switzerland Société Nautique de Genève: 2
• United States Golden Gate Yacht Club: 2
• Australia Royal Perth Yacht Club: 1

It's called Sailing Yacht A. BUT: it's actually classified as a sail-assisted motor yacht. It has however three huge Bermuda-rigged masts.

Some say Yacht A isn't technically speaking a sailing yacht. I agree. The second largest yacht is actually the longest REAL sailing yacht. Meet the Black Pearl . She truly is a great yacht, designed to cross oceans under just sail power. At 348' (106 m) it's gigantic, and it's one of the most advanced yachts in the world.

It's made in the Netherlands (I'm secretly promoting the Netherlands here), at the Oceanco shipyard.

So which of these, do you reckon, is the largest?

Most word-record contenders choose to sail eastward, thanks to the stronger and more predictable winds and currents eastward on the southern hemisphere. There are just 5 world records using the westward route, and since 2010 no one set a record by taking a right turn.

In comparison, more than 20 records have been set taking the eastward route.

• The fastest eastward circumnavigation: 40 days and 23 hours
• The fastest westaward circumnavigation: 122 days and 14 hours

However, most recreational skippers tend to sail westward on the trade winds, because they prefer the tropical seas.

Most people need around 3.5 years to sail around the world . Learn more on the routes and different paces in my article How Long Does it Take to Sail Around the World? (new tab)

... is originally a sailing term. The cannons on a ship could weigh up to 3,400 pounds (or 1,500 kg). You can imagine that a loose one could do quite the damage. So loose cannons are dangerous - and should be avoided at all cost. Hence the saying.

The Bermuda sloop is a fore-and-aft single-masted sailboat rig that was developed in the 17th century by a Dutch-born Bermudian. It was inspired by the Moorish lateen rig. They got to know this rig in the Spanish-Dutch independence war, where the Spanish used the boats.

It replaced the gaff rig thanks to it's superior maneuverability.

Want to know everything about sail types and rigs? I've written a killer guide on it, explaining precisely what kind of sail you're dealing with, and what it's used for. I think it's a great post, one of the best on this blog actually. Read it here (new tab).

In 1902, the first ever full-rigged five master was built: the Preußen. It was the only 5-masted full-rigged ship ever built, until the Swedish sail cruise liner Royal Clipper was launched in 2000.

(To be clear: there were other five masters, but none of them was a tall ship.)

It sailed between Germany and Chile and was capable of transporting large amounts of goods at high speeds. Its hull length was 433' (132 m). She carried 47 sails (which is a lot).

In 1910, just 8 years after her launch, she sunk in the English Channel due to damage from a collision with a small cross-channel steamer, 'Brighton'. The Brighton underestimated Preußens speed, at 16 knots.

Legend has it the skipper said: "a sailboat can't go that fast" - after which the two collided.

She's an impressive sight:

Alessandro Di Benedetto, who is also called the Crazy Italian, has a special world record on his name. He circumnavigated the world in the smallest sailboat: a 21' (6.5 m). It took him 268 days and 19 hours, which is not very fast.

But it's an impressive accomplishment, especially seen the fact that he's been dismasted around Cape Horn. To deal with his dismating, he made a junk rig that got him all the way back to France, finishing his world-record attempt successfully.

Most boats can't go faster than the speed of the wind. But some racing yachts and most multihulls can. The reason is two-fold.

The reason it's possible is that boats generate their own wind, allowing them to 'surf their own wave' so to speak, increasing their speed.

Secondly, keelboats have a displacement hull: they push the water forward, which means they have to deal with resistance, and this resistance increases when the speed increases.

But this isn't a problem with the rise of multihulls. Multihulls use flat beds instead of a keel, which means the hulls are floating on top of the water surface. This allows them to go much faster, since they don't have to deal with water resistance.

Want to know how to calculate the hull speed of any boat ? If you're like me and like to nerd out about these kinds of things, I definitely recommend to go check out my article on the average speed of sailboats (opens in new tab).

During the Anglo-Dutch wars (1652-1674) the British wanted to replace the Dutch as the dominant naval power. The Dutch admiral De Ruyter and Grand Pensionary DeWitt came up with a flag signaling system to outmaneuver the British. It was a success.

To be fair, this is more of fun trivial knowledge, and not so much a sailing fact. Consider it a bonus fact:

Ching Shih (which literally means 'widow of Zheng') was the mightiest pirate that ever lived. She had over 300 junks under her command. The ships were manned by between 20,000 - 40,000 men, women, and children. She fought major naval powers, such as the British Empire, Portuguese, and the Qing dynasty.

She's without doubt the most successful pirate ever. Unlike many others, she wasn't executed, but actually died as a free woman in her own home. Quite the story.

read your 25 facts. excellent, interesting, short to the point, really unknown and enlightning facts that made me curious and search more info. thanks!

Shawn Buckles

Hi Miki, thanks and great to hear you’ve enjoyed the article. You’re welcome!

Wayne Hughes

Hi Miki, Tonight we have our local small sailing club Annual Prizegiving - I am the MC - Sincere Thanks for your research and article as they will give interesting facts to be sprinkled throughout the evening.

Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club - Sydney, Australia - 115 years old this year

Ray Bradley

Very interesting reading,with some humour thrown in. Thankyou

I JUST WANTED TO SAY I WAS DOING MY HOMEWORK AND I was sooo happy to find out I got good grades thank to this website I give it a 👍🏻

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Fun Facts About Boats: 15 Boat Trivia Tidbits Every Captain Should Know

Kimberly J West 38 Views

Hey there, boat enthusiast! Get ready to dive into a world of fascinating facts about boats.

From the size of boats and ancient designs to different types of propulsion and famous races, this article will take you on an exciting journey through the intriguing world of boating.

Discover notable inventions, explore boat building techniques, and learn interesting tidbits about boat names and records.

So grab your life jacket and join us as we uncover the hidden wonders of these magnificent vessels.

Key Takeaways

• Boat size significantly impacts speed and maneuverability.
• Ancient boat designs showcased the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient civilizations, such as Egyptian reed boats and Viking longships.
• Modern boat designs incorporate various propulsion systems, including electric motors, solar power, hydrogen fuel, wind propulsion, and human-powered boats.
• Famous boat races and innovations have made history, showcasing the power and passion of water sports, and leading to the development of innovative designs and visionary ideas.

Boat Size Matters

When it comes to boats, size really does matter.

Picture this: you’re out on the open water, wind in your hair, and the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins. Now imagine two boats side by side, one small and sleek while the other large and powerful.

The difference in boat size can have a significant impact on speed. A smaller boat, with its lightweight frame, has the advantage of maneuverability and agility. It can dart through waves effortlessly, giving you a thrilling ride like no other.

On the other hand, a larger boat may not be as nimble but offers stability and power. Its size allows for more engine power and increased speed capabilities, making it perfect for long journeys or watersports enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush.

Ancient Boat Designs

Ancient boat designs incorporated unique features that allowed for efficient navigation on various bodies of water. These traditional boat designs were not only functional but also awe-inspiring, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient civilizations.

From the sleek and streamlined hulls of Egyptian reed boats to the sturdy and resilient Viking longships, these vessels were designed to withstand the challenges of their respective waters. The choice of materials used in ancient boat construction was equally important. Egyptians utilized papyrus reeds, while Vikings relied on oak wood for their shipbuilding endeavors. These materials were carefully selected for their durability and ability to withstand the harsh conditions at sea.

Types of Boat Propulsion

Modern boat designs incorporate various types of propulsion systems, such as propellers and jet engines, to propel vessels efficiently through the water. These advancements in boat engine technology have revolutionized the way we travel on water, providing faster speeds, improved maneuverability, and reduced fuel consumption. In addition to traditional propellers and jet engines, alternative boat propulsion methods are also gaining popularity among boating enthusiasts. These innovative options not only offer environmental benefits but also provide a unique and thrilling experience on the water. Take a look at the table below to explore some of these alternative boat engine types:

These alternative boat propulsion methods offer exciting possibilities for a more sustainable boating future while still delivering an unforgettable experience on the water. By embracing these innovations, you can become part of a community that values both adventure and environmental responsibility.

Famous Boat Races

You’re about to embark on a thrilling discussion about famous boat races that have made history. These races feature record-breaking competitors who have pushed the limits of human achievement.

From the legendary Historical Boat Race that set the stage for future competitions, to the adrenaline-fueled Global Boat Race that unites nations in friendly rivalry, these events showcase the power and passion of the water sports world.

Get ready to be inspired by incredible triumphs and unforgettable moments in this captivating exploration of famous boat races.

Historical Boat Race

The Historical Boat Race was quite the spectacle, attracting crowds from all over. As you stood on the riverbank, anticipation filled the air, mingling with the excited chatter of fellow spectators.

Here are some highlights that painted a vivid picture in your mind:

• The sun glistened on the crystal-clear water, creating a mesmerizing reflection.
• The boats glided effortlessly through the waves, their sleek and streamlined designs cutting through the current.
• The cheers of the crowd echoed across the river as famous boat racers showcased their exceptional skills.
• Flags fluttered in the wind, representing different countries and adding a vibrant splash of color to the scene.
• The historic bridges spanning above provided a picturesque backdrop, reminding you of boat race history etched into time.

As you absorbed this extraordinary sight, you couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging among fellow enthusiasts who shared your appreciation for both tradition and innovation. It was an experience that left an indelible mark on your memory.

Record-Breaking Competitors

As you watch in awe, the competitors push their limits, showcasing their incredible athleticism and determination to break boat speed records. These record-breaking individuals have taken extreme boat modifications to a whole new level.

With innovative designs and visionary ideas, they have revolutionized the world of boating. The thrill of belonging to this exclusive community drives these athletes to constantly seek ways to improve their performance and surpass previous records.

From sleeker hull designs to advanced propulsion systems, every aspect of their boats is meticulously crafted for maximum speed and efficiency. It’s fascinating how these individuals combine science and skill to achieve breathtaking results on the water.

Global Boat Race

During the global boat race, competitors from around the world showcase their skills and determination to be crowned as the fastest on the water. It’s a thrilling event that captivates both participants and spectators alike.

As you watch these skilled sailors navigate their vessels, you can’t help but imagine yourself out on the open sea, feeling the wind in your hair and the spray of saltwater on your face. The global boat race transports you to a world where anything is possible, where ordinary boats are transformed into extraordinary machines.

Here are some unusual boat uses that will fuel your imagination:

• Sailboats with wings soaring through the sky
• Speedboats equipped with hovercraft technology gliding effortlessly over land and water
• Submarines diving deep into mysterious underwater realms
• Catamarans transforming into floating hotels for luxurious getaways
• Solar-powered boats harnessing the sun’s energy for eco-friendly journeys

As you witness these incredible feats of engineering during the global boat race, you can’t help but feel inspired by what humans are capable of achieving when they push boundaries and embrace innovation. In this community of boat enthusiasts, everyone belongs to a shared passion for exploration and adventure on the high seas.

Notable Boat Inventions

Did you know that some notable boat inventions include the propeller and the steam engine? These groundbreaking innovations have revolutionized boat navigation techniques and communication methods.

Imagine gliding through the water effortlessly, powered by a propeller that efficiently converts rotational motion into forward thrust. With the advent of the steam engine, boats were no longer reliant on wind or oars, opening up new possibilities for exploration and trade.

The development of these inventions not only made boating more efficient but also fostered global connections as boats became faster and more reliable. Communication methods also improved with the invention of signal flags and semaphore systems, allowing sailors to convey messages across long distances.

These advancements in boat technology have shaped our world by enabling safer travels, expanding opportunities for commerce, and fostering a sense of belonging among seafarers worldwide.

Boat Safety Measures

Ensure your safety on the water by familiarizing yourself with proper life jacket usage and emergency protocols. Boat safety training is essential for all water enthusiasts, as it equips you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the waters safely.

Here are five important measures to keep in mind:

• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket, as it can save your life in case of an accident.
• Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert while operating a boat to avoid collisions.
• Follow speed limits and navigation rules to prevent accidents and maintain order on the water.
• Keep communication devices such as a whistle or marine radio handy for emergencies.
• Regularly check your boat’s safety equipment, including fire extinguishers and flares.

By following these measures, you can enjoy your time on the water while ensuring your safety and that of others around you.

Stay informed, stay prepared!

Unusual Boat Uses

To discover unique ways to utilize boats, you can explore the world of boat conversions and repurposing. It’s a thrilling journey into the realm of unconventional boat designs and remarkable transformations.

Imagine turning an old sailboat into a floating art gallery or transforming a fishing trawler into a mobile research lab. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination.

And when it comes to boat races, forget about the ordinary. Dive into the exhilarating world of unique boat races where creativity knows no bounds. From bathtub regattas to cardboard boat races, these events showcase not just speed and skill but also innovation and resourcefulness.

Boat Terminology Explained

So, you’ve learned about the unusual uses of boats. Now, let’s dive into the fascinating world of boat terminology! Understanding common boat navigation terms is essential for any aspiring sailor like yourself. Here are some boat maintenance tips alongside a few key terms that will make you feel right at home on the water:

• Hull : The main body of the boat that keeps it afloat.
• Bow : The front end of the vessel.
• Stern : The rear or back end of the boat.
• Port : The left side when facing forward.
• Starboard : The right side when facing forward.

Boat Building Techniques

Boat building techniques have come a long way, and it’s fascinating to explore the differences between traditional and modern methods.

From using hand tools and natural materials to cutting-edge technology and advanced composites, the evolution of boat building reflects our constant drive for innovation.

Traditional Vs Modern Methods

Today, traditional boat-building methods are being replaced by modern techniques. The world of boat construction is undergoing a revolution, embracing new designs and technologies that offer improved performance and efficiency.

Imagine a future where boats are built using cutting-edge materials and advanced manufacturing processes. Picture sleek, streamlined vessels that effortlessly glide through the water, propelled by powerful engines and state-of-the-art propulsion systems.

Envision boats equipped with innovative navigation systems that ensure safe travels even in the most challenging conditions. Visualize spacious interiors adorned with luxurious amenities, creating an atmosphere of comfort and opulence.

Now, imagine being part of this exciting transformation – a community of boating enthusiasts who embrace progress while honoring the rich heritage of traditional boat construction. In this new era, you belong to a world where tradition meets innovation, creating extraordinary experiences on the open seas.

Materials and Tools Used

Imagine how exciting it would be to witness the use of advanced materials and tools in the construction of modern vessels. From boat maintenance to boat restoration, the world of boating has been revolutionized by cutting-edge techniques and state-of-the-art equipment.

Picture yourself being part of a community where you belong, surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your passion for boats.

In this era of innovation and progress, boat maintenance has become a seamless process thanks to new materials designed to withstand harsh conditions. Fiberglass composites provide durability while reducing weight, allowing boats to glide effortlessly through the water. Advanced tools such as 3D printers enable precise repairs and customization, making boat restoration a breeze.

Embrace this visionary journey into the realm of modern vessels – where belonging is nurtured, and dreams can set sail on waters yet unexplored. Experience firsthand the power of advanced materials and tools that have transformed boating into an exhilarating adventure filled with endless possibilities.

Historical Significance and Evolution

Step into the past and discover the remarkable historical significance and evolution of vessels throughout the centuries.

• Sailboats gracefully gliding across vast oceans, their billowing white sails catching the wind.
• Speedboats racing through turquoise waters, leaving a trail of exhilaration in their wake.
• Traditional wooden boats bobbing gently on calm rivers, carrying stories from ancient civilizations.
• Canoes silently slicing through still lakes, connecting with nature’s tranquility.
• Rowing boats gliding rhythmically along serene streams, teamwork propelling them forward.

Boat racing history has ignited a passion within individuals since time immemorial. Witnessed through iconic boat designs that have evolved over centuries, these vessels represent human ingenuity and exploration.

From the Viking longships to modern-day hydroplanes, each design tells a story of innovation driven by our insatiable desire for speed and adventure on water.

Embrace this rich heritage and embark on your own voyage into boat racing history – where you’ll find belonging among those who share your love for aquatic thrills and timeless craftsmanship.

Fun Facts About Boat Names

Boat names can often reflect a sense of humor or personal connection to the owner. Throughout history, boat naming traditions have evolved, with some famous boat names becoming legendary. From the iconic ‘Titanic’ to the adventurous ‘Endeavour,’ these names carry stories and evoke a strong emotional bond with their owners.

But it’s not just the grand vessels that have interesting names – even smaller boats can be named creatively. Whether it’s a witty pun like ‘Seas the Day’ or a heartfelt tribute like ‘Serenity,’ boat owners put thought into choosing a name that resonates with them and their love for the sea.

Interesting Boat Records

Are you ready to dive into the world of boat records and witness the mind-boggling achievements that have pushed the boundaries of speed and size?

Imagine a vessel slicing through the water at breakneck speeds, leaving all other boats in its wake.

Now, hold your breath as we explore the fastest boat ever recorded.

And brace yourself for an awe-inspiring encounter with the largest boat ever built, a floating fortress that redefines what it means to be immense.

Get ready to be amazed!

Fastest Boat Speed

The fastest boat speed ever recorded is 275.97 mph, achieved by a hydroplane boat in 2020. Imagine zooming across the water at an astonishing speed, defying gravity and leaving a trail of spray behind you. Picture yourself gripping the steering wheel, feeling the adrenaline rush as your boat glides effortlessly through the waves.

Here are five innovative boat designs that have contributed to these record-breaking speeds:

• Sleek and aerodynamic hull shapes that reduce drag
• Powerful engines with turbocharged technology for maximum acceleration
• Lightweight materials like carbon fiber to increase speed and maneuverability
• Hydrofoil systems that lift the boat out of the water, reducing friction
• Advanced navigation systems for precise control and optimal racing lines

With these cutting-edge designs, you too can experience the thrill of pushing boundaries on the open water. So hop aboard and be part of this exciting world of fast boats!

Largest Boat Ever

Now that you know all about the fastest boat speeds, let’s dive into the world of record-breaking vessels and the grandest boat races ever witnessed.

Picture yourself standing on the shores, surrounded by a crowd of fellow enthusiasts, eagerly awaiting the sight of the largest boat ever created. As your heart races with anticipation, you can’t help but feel a sense of belonging among this community of boat lovers.

These colossal watercrafts are nothing short of engineering marvels, their size and scale leaving spectators in awe. From enormous cruise ships to mammoth cargo carriers, these giants dominate the seas with their sheer presence.

The largest boat races bring together competitors from around the globe who share an unyielding passion for boating and a desire to be part of something truly extraordinary.

Boat Etiquette and Customs

Follow proper boat etiquette by always giving way to larger vessels in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Remember, it’s not just about following rules, but also about creating a sense of belonging and community among fellow boaters.

Here are a few guidelines to help you navigate the waters with grace:

Boat flag signals: Use flags to communicate important messages like ‘diver down’ or ‘restricted maneuverability.’ It’s like having your own secret language on the water.

Boat docking etiquette: When docking, be patient and wait your turn. Offer assistance if needed and always leave enough space for other boaters.

Keep noise levels down: Respect others’ peace by reducing engine noise, loud music, or shouting.

Clean up after yourself: Dispose of trash properly so that the beauty of the water is preserved for everyone’s enjoyment.

Be aware of your wake: Slow down near docks, swimmers, or smaller boats to minimize your wake and prevent any accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do boats impact the environment.

Boats impact the environment by contributing to water pollution, causing noise and disrupting habitats. It’s crucial to recognize these effects and take steps towards sustainable practices. Together, we can protect our waters and create a sense of belonging for all living beings.

What Are Some Common Myths About Boats?

Common misconceptions about boats can lead to false beliefs and misunderstandings. However, by debunking boat myths, you can gain a clearer understanding of their true impact and appreciate the valuable role they play in our lives.

Are There Any Superstitions or Beliefs Associated With Boats?

Do superstitions and beliefs associated with boats still exist in modern times? They do. These age-old traditions impact the behavior and decision making of boat owners, adding an air of mystique and a sense of belonging to the maritime community.

Can Boats Be Used for Medical or Scientific Purposes?

You’ll be amazed at how boats can contribute to medical research and scientific exploration. They provide a unique platform for studying marine life, conducting experiments, and collecting data in remote areas.

What Are Some Unusual Materials That Have Been Used to Build Boats?

Imagine the possibilities of using unconventional materials to build boats. From bamboo to recycled plastic, these unusual materials offer unique advantages and disadvantages in boat construction. Explore the creativity and innovation behind these alternative choices for building your dream vessel.

So there you have it, matey! You’ve just explored the mesmerizing world of boats with all its intriguing wonders and astonishing records.

From ancient boat designs to cutting-edge propulsion systems, this article has shed light on the fascinating realm of maritime history and innovation.

Remember to respect boat etiquette and customs as you embark on your own nautical adventures.

With these fun facts in mind, set sail into a future where boats continue to inspire and amaze us all.

Bon voyage!

About Kimberly J West

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7 Interesting Facts About Yachts You Didn’t Know About

• 19th November 2022 12th December 2022

If you’re in the market for a luxury yacht, you might be interested to learn some interesting facts about these vessels. Did you know that yachts can come in all shapes and sizes? Or that they can be used for more than just recreation? In this blog post, we will share seven interesting facts about yachts that you may not have known before. Keep reading to learn more!

1. Yachts can come in all shapes and sizes

No two yachts are alike! Yachts can range in size from just a few feet long to over 400 feet long. And, they come in all sorts of shapes and designs. Some yachts are sleek and modern, while others are more traditional in style. There is sure to be a yacht out there that is perfect for you. For example, Sunseeker yachts are known for their modern and sleek designs, while Riva yachts are known for their classic and elegant style.

2. Yachts can be used for more than recreation

While many people think of yachts as simply recreational vehicles , they can actually be used for a variety of purposes. For instance, some business owners use yachts as floating office space or as a place to entertain clients. Additionally, many celebrities and other public figures use yachts as a way to escape the paparazzi and enjoy some privacy. And, of course, yachts can also be used for rescue missions and other important tasks.

3. There are companies specializing in transporting Yachts

While you may think that transporting a yacht would be a difficult and expensive task, there are actually companies specializing in yacht transport. According to the team at Cross Chartering Yacht Transport , these companies have the experience and the equipment necessary to safely transport your yacht to its destination. Additionally, many of these companies offer door-to-door service, so you don’t have to worry about any of the logistics.

4. Yachts can be powered by a variety of methods

Yachts can be powered by gas or diesel engines a 12v100ah LiFePO4 battery or they can be solar-powered. Solar-powered yachts are becoming increasingly popular, as they are more environmentally friendly than traditional gas or diesel engines. Additionally, solar power is often cheaper than other forms of energy, so it can save you money in the long run. For instance, the Eco yacht by Aqua is a solar-powered vessel that can travel up to 7 knots without using any fossil fuels.

5. Yachts require a lot of maintenance

Owning a yacht is a lot of work! These vessels require regular maintenance and upkeep. For instance, you will need to clean the hull and deck, as well as the interior of the yacht. Additionally, you will need to service the engines and other mechanical components on a regular basis. Of course, you can always hire someone to do all of this work for you, but it is important to be aware that it is a lot of work nonetheless. For instance, the team at Ocean Alexander Yacht Maintenance provides full-service yacht care, so you can rest assured that your vessel is in good hands.

6. Yachts can be a great investment

If you’re looking for a solid investment, you may want to consider purchasing a yacht. While the initial cost of a yacht can be quite high, these vessels often appreciate value over time. Additionally, if you rent out your yacht when you’re not using it, you can generate some extra income. Just be sure to do your research before making any decisions, as there are a lot of factors to consider when purchasing a yacht. For instance, you’ll need to decide what size and type of yacht you want, as well as where you’re going to keep it.

7. There are many different types of yachts

There are several different types of yachts, including motor yachts, sailing yachts, catamarans, and more. Each type of yacht has its own unique features and benefits. For instance, motor yachts are typically faster than sailing yachts, but they can be more expensive to operate. Sailing yachts, on the other hand, are typically slower than motor yachts but can be cheaper to operate. Ultimately, the type of yacht you choose should depend on your specific needs and preferences.

We hope you found these seven facts about yachts interesting! As you can see, there is a lot to learn about these vessels. If you’re considering purchasing a yacht, be sure to do your research so that you can find the perfect one for you. And, if you’re not in the market for a yacht, we hope you now have a better understanding of these fascinating vessels.

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10 Fascinating Facts About Boats You Need to Know

Welcome to Facts Vibes! Get ready to set sail and dive into fascinating facts about boats . From their historical significance to their modern-day uses, we’ll explore the incredible world of boats in this article. Let’s embark on an exciting journey through the waters of knowledge together.

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Exploring the Intriguing World of Boats: Interesting Facts You Need to Know

Boats are a fascinating mode of transportation that have been used for centuries. From small rowboats to large ocean liners, there is so much to learn about these incredible vessels. Here are some interesting facts you need to know about boats.

1. The oldest boat discovered dates back to around 8,000 years ago and was found in the Netherlands. This ancient vessel was carved from a single tree trunk and provides valuable insights into early seafaring.

2. The Largest cruise ship in the world is Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, measuring a staggering 1,188 feet in length. It features numerous amenities, including pools, theaters, and even a zip line.

3. The fastest boat on record is the Spirit of Australia, which reached an incredible speed of 318.75 miles per hour in 1978. This hydroplane still holds the world water speed record to this day.

4. Some of the most expensive boats ever sold include luxury yachts equipped with swimming pools, helipads, and lavish interior designs. These multi-million dollar vessels are a symbol of opulence and wealth.

5. The science of boat design involves complex calculations and engineering principles to ensure stability, speed, and safety on the water. Modern naval architects continue to push the boundaries of innovation in boat construction.

Exploring the intriguing world of boats unveils a rich tapestry of history, technology, and adventure. Whether you are fascinated by maritime archaeology, extreme speed, or luxurious yachts, the realm of boats offers a diverse range of captivating facts to discover.

Most popular facts

The oldest boat ever discovered is a dugout canoe found in the netherlands, estimated to be around 10,000 years old..

Yes, the oldest boat ever discovered is a dugout canoe found in the Netherlands, estimated to be around 10,000 years old.

The largest cruise ship in the world, Symphony of the Seas, spans over 1,188 feet in length.

The Titanic, a renowned luxury liner, sank on its maiden voyage in 1912, resulting in the tragic loss of over 1,500 lives.

The Titanic sank on its maiden voyage in 1912, resulting in the tragic loss of over 1,500 lives.

The fastest boat speed record was set by the Spirit of Australia at

The fastest boat speed record was set by the Spirit of Australia .

75 mph in Information and facts refers to the speed of an object or vehicle traveling at 75 miles per hour.

Information and facts are essential for making informed decisions and understanding the world around us.

The concept of using a rudder for steering boats dates back to ancient China around 1st century AD.

Yes , the concept of using a rudder for steering boats dates back to ancient China around 1st century AD.

Modern boats are often made from materials like fiberglass, aluminum, and steel, in addition to traditional wood.

Modern boats are often made from materials like fiberglass , aluminum , and steel , in addition to traditional wood.

The USS Constitution, a wooden-hulled frigate, is the oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat in the world.

Yes, the USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat in the world.

The smallest boat in the world measures just

The smallest boat in the world measures just 2.36 meters .

79 micrometers in length, created using nanotechnology.

A structure of 79 micrometers in length , created using nanotechnology .

The Vikings were skilled boat builders and sailors, using their longships for trade, exploration, and warfare.

The Vikings were skilled boat builders and sailors , using their longships for trade , exploration , and warfare .

The British Royal Navy’s HMS Victory, launched in 1765, is one of the most famous warships in history, best known for its role in the Battle of Trafalgar in

HMS Victory, launched in 1765, is best known for its role in the Battle of Trafalgar .

Information and facts are essential for decision-making and knowledge acquisition.

The invention of the sailboat revolutionized maritime travel, enabling ancient seafarers to navigate with the power of the wind.

The invention of the sailboat revolutionized maritime travel, enabling ancient seafarers to navigate with the power of the wind .

The concept of a “lifeboat” as a separate rescue vessel became widespread in the 19th century, following numerous maritime disasters.

The development of steam-powered boats in the 18th and 19th centuries marked a significant shift in marine transportation.

The development of steam-powered boats in the 18th and 19th centuries marked a significant shift in marine transportation .

The modern yacht industry extends to luxurious mega yachts, some of which boast amenities such as helipads and swimming pools.

The modern yacht industry extends to luxurious mega yachts , some of which boast amenities such as helipads and swimming pools .

Catamarans, with their twin hulls, offer stability and speed, making them popular choices for leisure boating and racing.

Catamarans are popular choices for leisure boating and racing due to their stability and speed offered by their twin hulls.

In conclusion, the facts about boats have shed light on their historical significance, technical advancements, and diverse uses in today’s world. Understanding the intricacies of boat design and functionality can enhance our appreciation for these nautical marvels and the role they play in various industries. Whether used for transportation, leisure, or research, boats continue to be an essential part of marine exploration and commerce .

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Ocean Mapping

New to Yachting

• Jul 6, 2022

Whether you are superyacht crew, a member of the superyacht industry or just a superyacht fan, we bet these are some of the facts about the industry you didn’t know about!

1. there are currently 5,396 superyachts over 30m / 98ft in length operating in the world.

According to the SuperYacht Times ‘The State of Yachting 2022’ report, as of the end of 2021, there were 5,396 yachts over 30m / 98ft in operation. In addition, there are also around 92 superyachts out of service, while about 202 superyachts have been completely lost since 1945.

2. 95m / 312ft superyacht Kismet was used on set of a “Six Underground” Michael Bay movie featuring Ryan Renolds, Melanie Laurent and Dave Franco

Kismet has been filmed in the 2019 Michael Bay’s action movie ‘Six Underground’. Shooting in Taranto, Italy, the streaming company invested USD 150 million on the realisation of the action film, that starred Ryan Reynolds, Melanie Laurent, Dave Franco, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Adria Arjona and Corey Hawkins.

A party scene with around eighty guests and several other scenes were shot on board. Some of the explosions were also actually shot on board Kismet. And, according to cinematographer Bojan Bazelli, the filmmakers needed to be extra-mindful during the shootout scenes not to damage the teak floors which they had to protect in case they burned down.

3. The fastest superyacht in the world is M/Y Foners, reaching a thrilling 70.10 knots

The 41.5m / 136ft Foners has raced to the top spot as the world’s fastest superyacht, reaching the speed of astounding 70.10 knots. She’s been difficult to catch up with, having maintained her position for over 20 years since her delivery in 2000.

Her speed is produced by two 1,280hp MAN engines coupled with three Rolls Royce 6,700hp gas turbines that drive three KaMeWa water jets.

4. Motor yachts make up 84% of the global fleet and sailing yachts make up 16%.

5. working on board a superyacht is more than just a career.

Yachting is a career that, for its obvious perks, attracts many people. Travelling the world, earning great salary, working with state-of-the-art equipment, meeting incredible people and making lifelong friends are just some of the great things about yachting.

Unlike other careers though, yachting is an all-encompassing life adventure. Yacht crew generally live on board yachts full-time and go wherever the yacht goes. This means that one day you might be in Spain, the other day in France, and it could be a while before you can go back home to see your friends and family. It's a unique lifestyle with lots of perks but not necessarily a great match for everyone. If you are a hardworking and adventurous individual though, it could be just what you're looking for!

6. To be able to keep the 22 tonnes of exterior glass that make Oceanico’s yacht DAR, German glass maker TILSE had to develop a special sealant and glue that had to be approved by Lloyd’s

The most obvious feature of the 90m / 295ft superyacht DAR is the seamless black glass that encloses the superstructure. Oceanco’s task was to enhance the views from inside while keeping the outside from looking in. Even with lights on, it is impossible to make out what is behind the glass from the outside.

To be able to keep the 22 tonnes of exterior glass, German glass maker TILSE had to develop a special sealant and glue that had to be approved by Lloyd’s.

7. Clients from the United States own the largest share of superyachts over 40m / 130ft, owning 23% of the total world fleet

American buyers have had the largest share of superyachts over 40m in length at the end of 2021, with a share of 23%, followed by Russian owners with 9% of the fleet, and United Kingdom and Greece with 6% each. Turkey and Italy close out the list of top owning countries with 5% each.

Clients from the United States have purchased the most new-build yachts over 40 metres in the past 10 years, having acquired 18% of all of these yachts.

8. At 107m / 350ft Black Pearl is one of the largest and most ecological sailing yachts in the world

Black Pearl is a yacht of superlatives. With her three 70m carbon masts she can set 2,900 square metres of sail on the world’s largest Dynarig system. The masts have a folding system that allows the yacht to pass safely through the Panama Canal.

According to her manufacturer, Oceanco, she can cross the Atlantic without burning even a later of fossil fuel. This is thanks to her innovative propulsion system that harvests kinetic energy under sail.

Under sail, the boat’s propellers turn backwards, generating up to 480kW of power for use and storage on board. This allows the boat to operate silently for extended periods.

9. Explorer yachts are gaining popularity with its built segment growth of 33%

According to the Global Order Book published by BOAT International, there is a recorded 33% rise in expedition yacht build. Explorer yachts are built to be able to cruise in the most remote areas of the world, which allows the owners and guests to discover new regions.

Clients are curious. They want to explore, see and experience remote and unique regions of the world such as the Polar Areas, French Polynesia, Fiji, Galapagos, etc.

10. German superyacht yard Lürssen is set out to build the first yacht without a combustion engine

In April 2021, Lürssen announced that it had sold its first yacht with hydrogen fuel cells fuelled by methanol. Delivery of the yacht is scheduled for 2025 and the technology will allow the owner to spend more than 15 nights at anchor or cruise of more than 1,000 nautical miles, both completely emissions-free.

“I think it’s a clear signal that owners who already invest substantial amounts in building yachts are willing to invest that extra bit of money to go and dare say make that quantum leap of furthering propulsion technology and power technology on a yacht and this will be a game-changer especially since it has a lot of practical use," said Lürssen managing partner, Peter Lürssen.

Are you looking for a job onboard a yacht?

Become a member of YPI CREW through a free registration and let us connect you with the next step in your career.

Each of our recruiters is specialised in recruitment for a particular department and they will do their best to get you an interview onboard a yacht. They will also advise qualified crew how to best present their CV and prepare for a yacht job interview .

Are you looking for yacht crew for your yacht?

Get in touch with us so our recruiters can connect you with suitable, available and interested candidates, each of which will be checked, certified, pre-interviewed and ensured to be a perfect fit to your existing crew.

You can get in touch with us today by clicking here .

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8 most interesting facts about sailing and boats

• October 19, 2020

Ahoy there! As boaters, skippers and sailing enthusiast, some of the members of our team started looking up interesting and fun facts about sailing, during one of our trips.

Having some time to kill during one of our trips on the glistening Turkish Blue Coast , we starting telling stories heard from fellow boaters.

In truth, the discussion started over reviewing the key statistics about the recreational boating industry , which we were curious about since we were about to launch our free smart boating app , designed for making us safer together, to provide easier planning and smartly track our performance.

Tired of numbers, we started sharing knowledge and stories we have heard, right before making port.

So, after that, we thought “Hey, why not share our fun moments as a community with our future community members and with the users of our great new app .”

Having decided that, and after a little research, we came up with this:

1. Difference between a boat and a ship

Did you know the most important difference between a Boat and a Ship is actually the weight? It turns out that if a vessel weighs 500 tones or more it’s classified as a ship since this is the weight you need in order to carry a boat. To always know the difference, remember “A ship can carry a boat, but a boat cannot carry a ship.”

From all the specifications that separate the two, we can count areas of operations (ships operated in oceanic areas and high seas; boats operate in smaller or/and restricted water areas), method of propulsion (boats use sails, motor, or human power and ships have dedicated engines for propulsion), technology, crew, cargo capacity, construction and design.

2. To whistle or not to whistle… on a boat

Did you know that cooks on board ships in the old days were the only ones allowed to whistle? Strange, right? But apparently this proved they were not using their mouths to eat the food as long as they whistled. Other crew members would not whistle since superstitiously they would think whistling would summon strong winds.

In contrast with this, having a woman giving birth to a male child on board was a sign of good luck. The children born on the ship used to be called “son of a gun”.

3. Sometimes size does not really matter

Image source

Did you know that the ship Christopher Columbus used to reach America was actually small? Well, it was small compared to today’s standards. The Santa Maria was no longer than 70 feet, about the size of a modern bus and weighing around 200-600 tons. It carried a crew of 52 members.

The original name of Santa Maria was La Gallega in reference to the place where the ship was built. Christopher Columbus changed the name of the ship to Santa Maria de la Immaculate Concepción.

4. Distance make the heart grow fonder

Did you know that statistics say that boaters and anglers are more satisfied with their marriages and friendships compared with people who don’t participate in these activities?

Also they are more likely to recycle, compost trash, use compact fluorescent lightbulbs, carpool, donate money to environmental organizations, actively trying to reduce their carbon footprint and are more likely to have close relationships with their children. This comes out of a study published some years ago by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation.

5. Treasure on sea

Did you know that Tommy Thompson was a treasure hunter that located a ship that sank in 1857 called the SS Central America and recovered over $1 billion worth of gold from the several tons the ship carried? However, the strange thing is that he never paid back his crew or investors, and hasn’t been seen in years.

They are literally hundreds if not thousands of treasures all around the ocean floor. It is estimated to be over 20 million tons of gold. Do you feel lucky?

“The ocean is the world’s greatest museum,” says marine archaeologist Peter Campbell.

6. Look the other way

Did you know that in 2004 a party yacht tripped over on Lake Travis when the passengers all moved to one side of the boat as it passed a nude sunbathers beach in Texas? 

7. 3 days under water. How is that even possible?

Did you know that there was a man that survived under the sea for three days? You wonder how that was possible?

Well, it seems that in 2013, the chef of a sunken ship survived for 3 days under the ocean after taking refuge in an air pocket of the ship, that by this time had come to rest upside down on the seafloor at a depth of about 100 feet (30 meters).

8. “Quarantine” and its origins

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• 11 facts about ships and boats that might surprise you
• < Fun facts

By Jana Brnáková February 7, 2020

By Jana Brnáková | February 7, 2020

Last update: March 26, 2021

Some are perhaps just old folks’ tales but the stories of most will definitely surprise you. There’s no denying that the vast waters of the world guard more than just one secret…

#1 my revenge.

A 14th-century French noblewoman became a privateer (a private person or a ship engaging in naval warfare) to avenge her late husband’s death. 

When her husband was executed for treason by the French king, Jeanne de Clisson , also known as de Belleville or the Lioness of Brittany , patrolled the English Channel to target French ships, often killing their crew. She continued her pirate endeavors for 13 years, leaving only a few people to bear witness to her killings. 

She became part of the Black Fleet and outfitted three ships which were painted black with red sails. The flagship was named My Revenge.

#2 Good luck vs bad luck superstitions

Spending weeks or months on a ship, stories and superstitions are an inherent part of the life of a sailor.

To name just a few, whistling is considered bad luck as it can bring about strong winds. In fact, the only person allowed to whistle on a ship is the cook as it means he is not eating the food.

Bananas might turn a boat’s luck ill, too. Especially when it comes to fishing boats as it is believed that if bananas are aboard, the fish won’t bite and there might be even mechanical mishaps. As soon as the hidden bananas are discovered and removed, the boat’s luck turns around.

On the other hand, cats bring good luck. British and Irish sailors would often adopt a black cat, which might sound counterintuitive as in some cultures a black cat is considered an evil omen. However, there is some logic to it as cats hunt down and get rid of rodents, who usually live on ships and might chew on ropes or eat food. This practice was even adopted by Vikings in Northern Germany between the 8th and 11th centuries.

#3 Not enough semaphore flags

#TrafalgarDay HMS Victory signals: England expects that every man will do his duty. https://t.co/QDfNHUUuqx pic.twitter.com/gwLXXtGUeG — Royal Navy (@RoyalNavy) October 21, 2018

At the beginning of the Battle of Trafalgar during the Napoleonic Wars, Admiral Lord Nelson made a now-famous call to arms to all his men, through semaphore flags.

The whole message read “ England expects that every man will do his duty” although the last word “duty” was not the original which Nelson himself wanted. Initially, he had written down “do his best”, but because of a lack of flags, they had to use “duty” instead.

Need to use the toilet on a ship? Ask for the heads instead. The name comes from the times when regular sailors went to the ship’s front — also called head or a bow — to relieve themselves. The toilets would be regularly washed out by the normal wave action. 

Only the captain enjoyed his own private facility near his quarters.

The measurement that ships (and planes ) use for navigation is the nautical mile. One nautical mile per hour is called a “knot”.

The origin of the word “knot” comes from the olden days when the speed on the ships would be measured by throwing into the sea a log attached to a rope with evenly spaced knots. As the ship moved relative to the log, the number of knots during a certain period of time would be counted to measure the speed of the vessel.

The device used to measure boat speed to this day is still called the “log” even though it has nothing to do with an actual log these days.

#6 Lyubov Orlova on the loose

Sea world stories have always been full of abandoned spooky ships — perhaps not dissimilar to Lyubov Orlova who has been on the loose since 2013. 

The Russian ship was commissioned during the times of Yugoslavia and used mainly for expeditions to Antarctica. A few years ago, it broke loose from a tugboat during a storm and has been drifting across the North Atlantic ever since. Some people believe the ship is taken over by cannibalistic rats… but be it either way, the dark and quiet vessel roaming around in the international waters has been labeled as dangerous by some.

#7 “Cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey”

The phrase, “cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey” comes from the times of old warships. 

The “balls” refer to cannonballs that were made of iron. They were kept on a square brass tray called a “monkey”. In very cold weather, the brass would contract in size, so a square pyramid of cannonballs that was made on it would literally fall off. The reason they were kept on brass was the fact that iron rusts very fast, and it wouldn’t be a good idea to have your cannonballs rusting into the thing they were lying on.

#8 Quarantine

The noun quarantine comes from Italian quaranta giorni or forty days. It comes from the Venetian policy of quarantining ships from plague-stricken places for 40 days, ensuring no one infected is on board.

From the 17th century onwards, the term was extended to “any period of forced isolation”.

#9 Swedish Vasa

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Vasamuseet / The Vasa Museum (@vasamuseet) on Oct 18, 2020 at 4:16am PDT

She was salvaged of most of her valuables and left in what is now a busy lane just outside of Stockholm harbor until the late 1950s. Since 1988 it has been placed in the Vasa museum in Stockholm .

#10 The tale of Hugh Williams

We might never find out whether the tale of unsinkable Hugh Williams is true or not at all. 

In 1664, a ship sank in the Menai Strait just off the coast of Wales . But one of the 81 passengers survived: Hugh Williams. More than a hundred years later, in 1785, another ship sank in the Menai Strait and, again, from the 60 passengers aboard, only one survived — Hugh Williams. To add more mystery to the tale, the year 1820 marked the third instance of sinking in the Strait, with the only survivor being Hugh Williams.

#11 Youngest person to sail around the world 

The 14-year-old Laura Dekker set out in 2012 to sail solo around the world. 518 days later, she arrived in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten in a 12.4-meter two-masted ketch called Guppy. At the age of 16, she became the youngest person in the world to solo circumnavigate the world.

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90 facts about sailing

Not always serious, but certainly true facts about yachting from Alexander Babitsky — the founder of the yacht company «Seanation», a sailing instructor and ideologist of the largest Russian-language regatta for beginners — «AFR».

Anastasiia Mosina

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Alexander Babitsky

Anastasiia mosina , alexander babitsky.

1.It is not the wind that is dangerous for yachts, but the waves. A storm of any reasonable strength alone cannot cause any damage to the yacht’s hull. The wind cannot turn the yacht over either. But a wave driven by the wind can wash away all equipment and people from the deck, and in case of an overturn, the yacht can sink. I am talking about cruising yachts and 6-8 meters waves.

2.It is not easy to come across a real storm and, moreover, a hurricane, if you are not looking for it. Many people around the world have been sailing for 20 years and have never come across extreme weather. But if you really want to, then there are places on Earth where a meeting with Poseidon in all his glory is guaranteed.

3.In recent decades, yacht manufacturing has undergone dramatic changes. One after another, shipyards, which for a long time have been producing serious and rather expensive sailboats for round the world trips, multi-day voyages, and so on, go bankrupt. In turn, unprecedented growth is shown by shipyards that manufacture mass-market boats for pleasure yachting. The retail price of yachts is going down, quality is getting worse, quantity is growing. Beneteau, Jeanneau, Bavaria, Hanse, Dufour, Elan, etc are the shipyards producing yachts that no one would have taken seriously 30-40 years ago. Hallberg-Rassy, Najad, Oyster, Westerly, Rival, Sadler, etc are either already bankrupt, or on the verge of bankruptcy. Yachting has changed from a way to travel to a way to race and go out to sea for a casual sailing. This is evolution, and that’s okay.

Yachting is about finding ways to repair your boat in exotic locations.

4.Many people think that there are no really luxurious sailboats — only motorboats. It is not true. Google Perini Navi for example. In general, a very cool sailboat will cost as much as a very cool motorboat. It’s a matter of taste. So, a large sailing yacht doesn’t mean that the owner has not yet saved up for a motorboat.

5. Sailboats will exist until the moment when someone will not invent some other relatively economical way of moving on water without limitation in range. To cross any of the oceans on a motor yacht, you need to have a huge supply of fuel that must be stored somewhere, so this yacht must be of the appropriate size. In yachts it works like this: the length is directly proportional to the cost. Therefore, few can afford a motorboat trip around the world. A sailboat from 6 meters long is already a real ship, on which you can sail in open spaces. But as soon as a conventional nuclear reactor the size of a matchbox appears, yachtsmen will switch to this method of movement, and sailboats will remain for old-schoolers and athletes. This is what happened with photographic film. However, all this is not 100%.

6. Owning a yacht is not expensive. In northern Europe, you can buy a sailboat ready to sail around the world for 10-20 thousand euros. No, it won’t be a piece of shit. But you will need to work on fixing it. And all thoughts and plans will be about it.

7.The British say that yachting is about finding ways to repair a boat in exotic locations. It’s true. Yachts break down all the time. Absolutely horrible operating conditions (shaking, salt, loads, ultraviolet light), an insane amount of spare parts, the crew that doesn’t know what it is doing — all these are the reasons that the owner of a boat is constantly repairing something. Yes, you can buy a yacht for little money, but you have to invest daily. Although, if you have a clever pair of hands, don’t mind being homeless and don’t need any conveniences, then you can do with a minimum of financial investments.

The Mediterranean is a pretty lousy region for sailing yachting. There is almost always too much wind or no wind at all.

8.Sailing is considered an extreme sport. In fact, as long as it is just sport, and not a world-class sport, the chances to become disabled, dye or go missing are quite small. Modern yachts, if a skipper is competent and the yacht is fixed, are quite safe. Everything is the same as with cars.

9.Contrary to popular belief, the Mediterranean is a pretty lousy region for sailing yachting. There is almost always too much wind or no wind at all. For a sailor, the ideal weather is moderately strong and steady wind, like, for example, in the Caribbean.

10.All shipyards film inspiring commercials about how their boat is steadily sailing under a slight comfortable roll, managed by a brutal male, and a female in a dress at the same time drinks cold rose wine and smiles at the sun. In real life, everything is not so. However, if you find a closed bay, in which there is no wave, choose the right weather, do not pour too much wine into a glass, then for about 15 minutes you will be able to bring the commercial to life. But no longer.

11.Sailing athletes differ from cruising yachtsmen as much as Formula 1 riders differ from ordinary drivers. That is, a person who has been racing on the Optimist since the age of 6 needs to learn sailing in long voyages no less, and often more, than those who started cruising straight away, even if not from childhood.

12. Size is not important. And with sailboats too. To sail across the seas and oceans, you do not need a large yacht, but you need a well-prepared one. Any talks about the fact that it is impossible to travel around the world on a 10-meters long yacht are justified by nothing, except cowardice.

13. When you hear from beginner yachtsmen stories about the horrible storm they have been through, perhaps you should doubt their stories. And that’s why:

a) The wind is often gusty. At a linear speed, for example, 10 m / s, gusts can blow even up to 20 m / s. Fear has many eyes, and they will notice that figure on the anemometer, which blinks 1 time for 1 second, and then this figure will appear in their stories.

b) Sailing yachts sail under the so-called apparent wind. This is the wind that you get from adding the natural wind speed and the wind speed generated by the movement of the yacht. That is, if a yacht is sailing using the wind that blows relative to the front, then the apparent wind is stronger than the natural. The devices most often display the speed of the apparent wind. Beginner yachtsmen forget about it and think that the weather is close to stormy, which is not necessary so.

14. The Russian maritime language began and finished its development in tsarist times. Therefore, most of the modern yacht parts have only English names. And the Old Dutch words, such as grottoes and staysails, are slowly but surely leaving the everyday life of modern yachtsmen.

15.The dream of many beginner yachtsmen is to train as a skipper, get a license and start sailing people for money, thereby making a living and traveling at the same time. I also started like that. Now this plan is close to utopia. The number of such skippers is huge, plus there is always the opportunity to go to sea either for free or for little money, helping those who have their own yacht when this yacht needs to be taken somewhere.

16. No, nobody uses astronavigation now. Orientation to celestial bodies has outlived its usefulness. Which, of course, does not prevent you from knowing this method.

17.Although paper charts are still being produced and all sailors are being trained to use them, they will soon become a rudimentary method of navigation. Modern yachtsmen sailing in coastal waters use only electronic navigation. Those who sail far, sometimes check and make charts on paper, but this is more a desire to play it safe than a real need. Another thing is that all electronics must be duplicated, as well as energy sources for it.

Ocean crossings are very, very boring. Fixing the tack every 5 days is often the only thing you need to do. And the remaining 23 hours 59 minutes and 30 seconds you have absolutely nothing to do.

18.Regatta is a sporting competition of sailing yachts held in accordance with the Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS). And not just a bunch of yachts going roughly one way and passing beer from yacht to yacht. But they started to call a regatta any flotilla with more than two yachts, where someone shouted into the radio «let’s race.»

19.The word «yachting» appeared in the Russian language recently in response to the fact that there was nothing but «sailing». And spending time sailing is not always a sport. Most often, if you take the Mediterranean, it is lying on the deck to the cozy rumble of a diesel engine and the cries of seagulls. What kind of sport is it really ...?

20. Any modern cruising sailing yacht has a motor. Before, yachts with sails and a motor were called motor-sailing. Now it became meaningless and they all just became sailing. The motor is used for maneuvering in marinas, sailing in calm weather and charging batteries.

21.Ocean crossings are very, very boring. All the tales about sunrises and sunsets, dolphins and tuna, wind and sails are good for self-sufficient phlegmatic people. Dear dreamers, imagine that nothing other than the above is available for, let’s say, three weeks. Nothing at all. Do you think it’s fun? Not at all. Fixing the tack every 5 days is often the only thing you need to do. And the remaining 23 hours 59 minutes and 30 seconds you have absolutely nothing to do. Sometimes you even want a storm not to be bored. However, if you are in an ocean regatta, and not in a simple crossing, then the situation is completely different.

22.If you decided to become a skipper, it does not matter at all which system the chosen school will have: IYT, RYA or something else. You are taught by the instructor and each of them does it differently. A good instructor plus your ability plus your motivation minus your laziness = success.

23.SHOCK. SENSATION. INTRIGUE. If you decide to buy a yacht for yourself or are planning to sail on a yacht of friends, you don’t need a skipper license AT ALL. At least in most countries. Your certificate of training is only of interest to charter companies and their insurers. Yes, again — on a private yacht in most waters you DO NOT NEED A LICENSE!

24. Sailing is expensive if it’s a sport and not a cruise! The higher the class, the more money you need. Relative exceptions are small sports yachts up to 8-9 meters long. Cruises, on the other hand, are cheap. A 6-8-seater yacht in the off-season, for example, in spring, is quite affordable — about 1000 euros per week. For all 6-8 people.

25. If you do not know anything, and you are invited to participate in the regatta for your money, then this is a fraud. There are no training regattas and training in regatta conditions. Well, they exist, but they will not teach you anything there. You will stay next to one rope and periodically do something with it when the captain asks you about it (usually in a foul language). So you will spend the whole regatta and go home even more confused than you were before. However, here we are talking about regattas, and not about the «regattas» from paragraph 18. You can learn something at them, or you can just have fun.

26. Surprisingly, I have never seen Orthodox icons and crosses near the steering wheel or other equipment. It is scary to imagine how, in bad weather, the skipper, instead of changing sails to stormy ones, falls on his knees and prays.

I personally know several very talented skippers who often say «pull that red rope over there» instead of «pull up the tack»

27. Many yachts have 2 steering wheels not to steer together but because when the yacht heels over, one of the steering wheels turns out to be more convenient for steering. Plus, on wide yachts, 2 steering wheels help you go from board to board without losing control of the yacht.

28. There are no age restrictions for children on yachts. Many families go sailing with babies on board. You just need to comply with simple rules and that’s it.

29.The wish for a fair wind is actually not entirely true in modern conditions. When the wind blows straight from behind, comfort and speed are not great.

30. In the conditions of a modern cruising yacht, about 100 nautical terms are used. Experienced skippers like to reproach the «youth» for ignorance or misuse of certain words. I have never noticed a correlation between knowing the terms and feeling the yacht / wind. I personally know several very talented skippers who often say «pull that red rope over there» instead of «pull up the tack.» This does not stop then from sailing tens of thousands of miles.

31.A modern cruising yacht, especially a charter yacht, is a set of compromises. For each wind direction there should be a sail. And for every wind force too. Charter yachts usually have only two sails, or three at most. So you sail, but by sporting standards, it’s pretty funny. At the same time, racing boats often have 10-12 sails, which are constantly changed due to changing conditions. Naturally, this difference is due to economy.

32. Usually two people, if they are competent, are enough to operate a cruising sailing yacht. The rest of the crew is needed for a drink after mooring.

33.A very large percentage of those who have completed sailing schools and received skipper’s certificates do not go to sea on their own. Because it’s scary — more often than not, this is the main reason.

34. Surely, there are skippers who do not use foul language on board and say «please, fix the staysail sheet.» But I have not met such people.

35. Never in my life have I heard a «Mayday» on the radio — this is a marine SOS. That is, no one drowned / burned / died while I was at sea. I guess, I was lucky.

36. While the yacht is at sea, both boys and girls should do their business in the latrine SITTING. Otherwise, rolling will lead to a toilet being pissed from floor to ceiling.

37. Sea knots and their knowledge do not make you a sailor. I remember and knit just 8-10 knots right away. It was always enough for me. However, the majority of pretentious sofa yachtsmen will tell you that without knowing 145 knots and astronavigation it is better not to go out to sea. They really had better not go.

38. The main modern device for coastal recreational navigation is the iPad. Plus one more spare iPad. By the way, Airbus and Boeing pilots also fly with the iPad.

39.The well-known life jackets are a rather poor means of safety during cruise yachting. The only thing that can almost guarantee your survival if you fall overboard is the fastening, the special systems that tie you to the side of the yacht. In the event of a fall, the sailor remains tied to the yacht and only needs to be pulled up. If you fall overboard in a life jacket, there is absolutely no guarantee that the crew on board will return for you in time or even find you. The mere fact of staying afloat does not guarantee survival at all.

40. In really bad weather, you have to stay at home or in a bar. But if you find yourself at sea, then the further you are from the shore, the better for you. It is much easier to crash against rocks than to die in open water. The water is always safer than the shore.

41. A lot of yachtsmen who sail around the world and who have tons of experience don’t care about:

b) gloves and gortex;

c) the order on the ship;

d) bad and good omens;

e) maritime traditions;

e-z) the rest of the crap, which beginners believe in.

42. A lot of yachtsmen who sail around the world and who have tons of experience really care about:

a) the state of the engine;

b) the amount of fresh water;

c) the number of iPads and spare power banks;

d) satellite communications and weather forecasts;

e) the presence of whiskey and rum on board;

e-i) the condition of the rigging and sails, and other vital things.

43. If you bought a yacht and plan to live on it in the Schengen area, there are many relatively legal ways to get around the 90 days per half year rule. The main thing is that you have a valid visa. The rest can be fixed.

44. Most voyages around the world look like this: you leave point A and go to point B. There you stay for several months and wait for the weather. Then to point C. And again stay and wait for the right season, etc. Therefore, it takes 2.5-3 years to travel around the world in a big circle. Although you can try to go around in a small circle — for example, around the Arctic.

45.It is not easy for dogs on board the yacht. Especially large and those who went to sea with the owner being a big dog, not a puppy. It is almost impossible to toilet train an adult dog on board. Therefore, the dogs wait. Yes, they can wait for 3-5 days. And such a dog can only be transported across the ocean by plane. With cats it is, of course, easier, and they make excellent sailors.

46. There are two types of satellite internet that travelers use: slow and expensive. Slow is not the «slow» one that you imagined when you remembered how your Facebook was updated for a couple of minutes. Slow satellite internet will download a small picture for about half an hour. And this picture will cost 25-30 bucks. And it can also be expensive: 1 gigabyte of fast satellite Internet in the ocean costs several thousand dollars.

48. I am often asked: are the oceans crossed over without any stops? The answer is: absolutely. Well, that is, you can stop right in the ocean and take a break, but why would you do that. And there are very few islands when crossing the oceans, and it takes weeks to go from land to land.

48. Most of the marine inhabitants that I have seen in different waters are pensioners. No, of course there are young people and families with children, but still the majority are 60+ people. I understand why. First, as already mentioned, sailing through the seas and oceans is boring. Secondly, you need a lot of free time. Thirdly, you need some passive income. Fourthly, sitting at anchorage for months with a glass of wine is a dream, of course, but only for those who have already seen life. I haven’t seen it yet, apparently.

49. One of the things yachtsmen are afraid of is containers that have fallen from container ships. According to statistics, hundreds of containers fall from ships into the oceans every year. And some of them sink rather slowly. Therefore, a yacht always has the risk of running into a half-flooded iron box and breaking the hull.

50. Yachtsmen are also afraid of whales. In general, whales don’t care about yachts and people on them. But during the migration of whales with their babies, happy parents are somewhat nervous about anything that can potentially threaten babies. Therefore, they can become aggressive towards you and your boat. There is also a chance to crash into a sleeping whale, but he is unlikely to be aggressive in this case. And the last occasion for a close acquaintance with this sea chubby is if your bottom is painted with white or light paint. Some sexually active male whales may mistake your boat for a white-bellied vicious female and try to come close for very specific purposes. Not a fun perspective

51. Your yacht is your own territory that obeys the laws of the country of registration of that yacht. Therefore, if, for example, in the country of registration you can legally buy a machine gun or a grenade launcher, then you have every right to carry these weapons on board. But, of course, it must be declared when crossing sea borders.

52. For some reason, many people think that all sailors are great swimmers. This is often not the case. I, for one, don’t swim very well. At the same time, I know several skippers who generally barely stay on the water and do not really like this. And this does not interfere with their sailing hobbies at all.

Anything that seems to be intended for yachting is immediately expensive.

53.Board games can be found in some liferafts. They are there so that the unfortunate sailors would not go crazy with boredom waiting to be rescued.

54. The best yachtsmen and yachting instructors I have ever seen or known are British. Generally speaking, for the British to go out on a boat to the sea is the same as for us to go buy bread.

55. Cruise sailing is when the yachtsman lies, walks and sails at the same time. Indeed, 90% of the time in long crossings, their participants spend in a horizontal position, and not jumping on the deck. It is funny when we are asked whether we have lost weight during the crossing. No, we haven’t.

56. Anything that seems to be intended for yachting is immediately expensive. For example, there are two first-aid kits in an Italian store — one with a car drawn on it, and the other with a boat. I asked to see them and made sure that the items inside are identical. The one with the boat was 50% more expensive. I asked why. Cause it`s for the boats — was the answer.

57. When you buy your first yacht, you immediately want to pour money into it, regardless of whether you have it. You start buying all sorts of shit, happily install it and test it in action. You make sure that shit is shit, you dismantle it and sell it on to the next experimenter. For example, I bought my Westerly for 60 thousand euros and invested another 25 thousand into it in the first couple of months. Of course, 90% of those 25 were wasted.

In the life of every yachtsman there are at least 2 happy days: the first is when he bought a yacht and the second — when he sold it.

58. There are no universal yachts, that is, you cannot buy a yacht that will be good for racing, for sailing on weekends and for long journeys with accommodation on board. Some shipyards are experimenting with what they call «performance cruisers» — to both race and cruise, but they are still too light for the oceans and too heavy for sports.

P. S. All this is true for boats of relatively small size and cost. This does not apply to yachts from 25 meters long — doing everything on them is fun. But it’s expensive.

59. Many yachtsmen, at some point in their development, start planning to cross the ocean. If we talk about Europeans, then this is, of course, the transatlantic crossing from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean. This crossing has its own seasonality (December-January) and, in general, is quite simple and safe, as it passes through the zone of constant strong trade winds. In fact, this is a high-speed highway for sailing yachts — you get on the trade wind and fly. But after arriving in the Caribbean, one day you will have to decide what to do next with the yacht. The return journey is much more difficult and longer, so the yachtsman faces a choice:

a) continue to travel around the world and go to the Pacific Ocean;

b) leave the yacht in the Caribbean as a summer residence and fly home;

c) sail back, despite all the difficulties;

d) sell a yacht in the Caribbean for a penny and fly home.

Due to the fact that quite a few people use the «d» option, in the Caribbean you can sometimes buy a rather cheap boat.

60. A well-known saying goes like this: «In the life of every yachtsman there are at least 2 happy days: the first is when he bought a yacht and the second — when he sold it.» You can’t even imagine how true this is.

61. On all modern yachts, everything is made of modern materials. The hull is made of fiberglass or carbon fiber, the ropes are polyester, the sails are dacron, carbon or kevlar and so on. No one has been using any canvas for a long time. It is all the more surprising to hear from old-school yachtsmen about the ways of navigation that were used at the time of Columbus.

62.Almost everyone gets sea sick on yachts. Another thing is that it does not always come to vomiting. Seasickness is different for different people, and you can often fight it with items on hand: 50 grams of spirits, a look at the horizon, dramina and so on. After a while (from 12 to 36 hours), the body will accept its fate and will stop tormenting you, but only until the next stop at the shore, and then everything will start all over again. There is a popular myth that the vestibular apparatus can be trained once and for life. This is not so — there are no methods of training known to science. Before deciding on a sea voyage, you need to think: «Do I get car sick, bus sick or plane sick?» If the answer is yes, then yachting may not be for you.

63. It is forbidden to go to Antarctica on non-metallic yachts — the hull must be steel or aluminum.

64. To rent a charter yacht, you do not need to have a skipper’s license. You can just live on it at the pier without going out to sea. A fun alternative to a hostel.

65.In Norway, you can often find retired people living on rather expensive (1-3 million euros) motor yachts. These yachts are moored to the pier and never go to sea. But there are flowers, animals and grandchildren. During our cruises, we often came across such old people, they are very hospitable and sociable — they always invited us to drink something in the evening.

66. My yacht was taken across the ocean by two people, Edgars Vanags and Kirill Brui, widely known in narrow circles. I wrote to Edgars on Facebook: «Hi, will you take my boat across the Atlantic, I do not have time — I have a big regatta soon?» A minute later, he answered me: «Great, I will do it.» So everything was decided. And Kirill even became the yachtsman of the year in Belarus thanks to this crossing.

67. The flag, which hangs somewhere in the stern of the yacht, symbolizes the country of registration of this yacht. The country of registration does not necessarily have something to do with the owner or the skipper — you can choose it according to your personal criteria. That is, if you see a yacht with, for example, a British flag, the probability that the British own it is fifty-fifty.

68. Fishing in the ocean can be simple. If you leave a flashlight on the deck at night, then flying fish are guaranteed to fly into its light. They will fly in to die right on board. If you notice them in time, you can hang them on a rope and air-dry like roach. And if you notice it too late, you will then go and look where the stench comes from.

69. There is statistical evidence that people in liferafts and lifeboats are more likely to die from despair than from exhaustion. There is no proof, if you don’t want to — don’t believe it.

70. The Solent Strait, where the Seanation Cup takes place during the May holidays, is known as the best place for regattas on Earth. Local athletes have a high level of training, and most importantly, a good knowledge of the characteristics of the water area (which is extremely important there), therefore they compete not only and not so much in yachting skills, but in bullying. Moral pressure and humiliation of the enemy, as well as attempts to provoke and deceive, is a normal practice when passing marks, start and finish lines.

71. In ocean conditions, you can wash yourself, including rather long female hair, using only 1 liter of fresh water.

72. Electricity on a yacht can be produced in a variety of ways:

a) diesel, if there is a supply of diesel fuel;

b) solar panels, if there is sun;

c) a wind generator, if there is wind;

d) water turbine, if there is wind and you are sailing.

As a rule, there is always something mentioned above. If there is nothing, you are out of luck. I know people who put all 4 devices on their boats. It usually doesn’t make much sense, but these people explain this decision by the love of electricity. Vasily Surikov, for example, loves it.

73. If you don’t like someone, then here’s a way to have perfect murder. Take this person with you on a crossing in the open sea, or better yet, the ocean. At some point in time, this person for some reason ends up on board — to pee or just to watch the sunset. You push the person, and the yacht follows its course but without the unpleasant passenger already. It is better to do this at night, since you will have several hours of head start before you start shouting into the radio about the tragedy that has happened — you were asleep and do not know where, when and why the person went. There are no signs of a struggle on the deck, so it didn’t happen. Yachting is dangerous, anything can happen. There were such precedents, maybe people fell off, or maybe ...

74. The very fact of bouts of seasickness is not a reason not to go to sea. Once Constantine crossed the Atlantic with us. He vomited every day for 21 days. Sometimes several times a day. According to him, he liked the crossing. He did not take advantage of the opportunity to go ashore during a stop in Cape Verde, saying: «Well, there is nothing to worry about, everything is ok.»

The fact is that it is enough to drag a couple of ropes back and forth for the yacht to move somehow, and for many this is enough.

75. The most useful device for a cruising yachtsman after the iPad is the Garmin InReach satellite tracker. This gadget has a built-in Iridium transceiver, which means that you are connected from anywhere in the earth’s geoid. Email, Facebook, sms, etc. And for very little money. No, this is not an advertisement, although it looks like that.

76. A little more about corpses and yachting. A group of middle-aged men were sailing on a yacht across the ocean, and about the middle of this crossing, one of the sailors died. He had an ulcer, or something of this sort. The guys rushed to call lawyers in Russia and Barbados, suggesting to throw him overboard, since it was warm outside, and the guy started to rot. Lawyers were against it — take him with you, they said, since you had already informed everyone about the accident. Well, so they had to do it. They wrapped a friend in a film, put him in a dingy (an inflatable small boat) and tied it behind the yacht. So they were sailing with it for several days until they arrived in Barbados. Everything would be ok, but the wind on this crossing was blowing from behind — I don’t know how the guys were breathing.

77. One of the few nations that is still difficult to meet on yachts is the Chinese. I am sure that they will be there soon. But recently, in a large marina of Athens, a Chinese man approached me and asked me whether I have seen a catamaran with Chinese. In fact, I did, and I told him where to look for it. Because there was only one such boat out of 2 thousand ones in the marina.

78. The most expensive marinas, as far as I know, are in Ibiza and southern Italy. During the high season, a mid-size charter yacht pays up to € 300 per night. At the same time, mooring in Portugal, for example, will cost 11-15 euros per night.

79. If you are an exhibitionist, nudist, voyeur or just an masturbator, then the best place for you is the waters of the Balearic Islands — Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca. In no other place have I seen so many naked yachtsmen and yachtswomen. Of course, most of them are older people.

Snobbery is what a beginning Russian yachtsman will have immediately after receiving a skipper’s certificate.

80. SENSATION! SHOCK! Sail tuning and cruising yachting are often incompatible things. Not only do cruise boats do not have a variety of sails, but skippers, for the most part, do not have an understanding of what to do with these sails. The fact is that it is enough to drag a couple of ropes back and forth for the yacht to move somehow, and for many this is enough. So, when you see tons of ropes, remember that many yachtsmen don’t understand what to do with them either.

81. Every ocean marina has a message board. And on it, there are a lot of notes with texts like this: «I am John from Australia and I am going on my 40-feet yacht from Tenerife to Brazil. I am looking for an assistant or two. I will pay all the expenses.» Or something like that. So, there is a whole niche for adventure seekers. On the one hand, you can travel the world for free, on the other hand, you will have yachting practice.

82. More often I met gay men on Italian yachts. They travel in couples and sometimes with dogs.

83. I have never heard that those who played football since childhood and played in semi- or professional football teams, tried to preach or criticize those who casually play football in the yard. In yachting, it happens all the time. Snobbery is what a beginning Russian yachtsman will have immediately after receiving a skipper’s certificate. It is about Russian yachtsmen. I did not notice such an attitude towards beginners or inexperienced sailors among the British, Norwegians or French.

84. Children from 6 to 12 years old, if they are not on a yacht from birth, are rather bored at sea. While adults pretend to be amazed by the sunrises, sunsets and the rustle of the waves, the kids have to play iPads and eat cookies. Catamarans and a cheerful children’s parties are an exception. I have never met kids that would look forward to spending a week or two with their parents on a yacht.

85. Despite the fact that the range of sea VHF communications is very limited and is only tens of miles in the open ocean, on the radio I regularly heard monologues in languages unknown to me, individual phrases, and sometimes even songs. At the same time, the radar did not show any ships around, and the nearest land was more than a thousand miles away.

86.There are birds in the ocean. Those who, in fact, live in the ocean. When they see a yacht, they want to sit on the mast or deck to rest (some of them are in continuous flight for many months). If you allow this, the birds are guaranteed to shit on everything they can, including the anchor fire, which is located at the very top of the mast, after which you will have to climb there and wash it from shit.

87. After Russia took Crimea, no European insurance company insures yachts owned by Russians. There are three ways out: do not insure, get a residence permit / permanent residence anywhere other than Russia, or register a yacht in a legal entity of any country other than Russia.

88.A border patrol arrives at one of the anchorages of the island of Guadeloupe every day from 1 pm to 2 pm, goes on its boat around the yachts and checks passports for visas. The fact is that, despite belonging to France, to enter Guadeloupe, you need a French island visa. Moreover, not only Russians, but citizens of many states need it. The penalty for not having this visa is insane. Therefore, all the intruders (including us) every day at 12:30 got into their boats and sailed ashore, from where we were looking at the confused actions of the Guadalupean patrol.

89. If you are dreaming of your own yacht or just want to ask the price, then some of the most interesting places in terms of prices and range are Sweden and Norway. There are a lot of boats on sale, and the prices are very attractive. In the case of Sweden, until recently there were a lot of excellent local shipyards there, and the boats they built will be valued for a very long time due to their high quality and reliability. Norway is a different story. Norway, as you know, is NOT a member of the European Union. And therefore, the yachts registered there are not cleared for EU customs. What does this mean? It means that the Europeans-neighbors (Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Poland and Germany) will never go to buy a second-hand yacht in Norway, as they will have to clear it at home.

90. In most countries, a skipper’s blood alcohol level should not exceed that of a car driver. For example, in the UK — 0.8 ppm — about 150 grams of vodka for an average man weighing 80kg.

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Top 101 Boating Facts and Factoids

• By Boating Staff
• Updated: October 16, 2006

There’s a lot to know in this sport we call boating. Too much, in fact. Which is good, as it keeps us interested and constantly learning. And it’s also bad, as there’s always something you should have known and only figured out later-usually, when it was too late. So class, here’s this semester’s lessons. Read on. Then take notes, and highlight the good parts. You never know when life will throw you a pop quiz.

Here’s the Pitch

An engine should run within its recommended rpm operating range at wide open throttle. If it revs below the range, less prop pitch is called for. If it’s above the range, more pitch is required. Props are described by diameter first, then pitch. Thus a 14½” x 19″ prop has a diameter of 14½” and a pitch of 19″.

Pecking Order

Whichever type of vessel is higher on this list has the right of way over those below it.

• Vessel not under command

• Vessels restricted in maneuverability

• Vessels engaged in fishing

• Sailboats

• Powerboats

Speed Freak

Hull speed for a displacement boat can be computed using the following formula:

V = the square root of LWL x 1.34

V = velocity in knots

LWL = waterline length

Left, Right, Left, Right

A single-engine boat with a right-handed prop backs to port.

With a left-handed propeller, the boat backs to starboard.

Do Not Pass Go

When two boats under power are about to meet head-on, neither has the right-of-way. Both vessels must make a noticeable course alteration to starboard after giving the proper signal of one short blast. When two vessels under power are crossing, the boat that has the other to starboard is the give-way vessel and must avoid the other by passing astern. The privileged vessel should maintain course and speed.

When visibility is restricted, hold to a speed that allows you to stop in no more than half of the distance of your visibility.

Down a Lazy River

A power-driven vessel operating in a narrow channel on the Great Lakes or in western rivers and proceeding downstream with a following current, has the right-of-way over an upbound vessel.

Twice as Nice

If you have two similar lines and the second is twice as thick as the first, the second line will be four times stronger than the first.

Found Horizons

Distance to your radar’s horizon in nautical miles can be estimated with the following formula: 1.23 x the square root of H = Distance H = the height of the radome in feet

Near or Far

To determine the distance to any object, use the following formula:

D + 1.17 x the square root of H = Distance

D = distance to the horizon in nautical miles (see above)

H = eye height above sea level in feet

Use this formula twice. Once to calculate the distance to the geographic horizon, and once to calculate the object’s distance off. Add the two to get the total distance off for the object.

A tall person (6’2″ and up) generally requires 3’2″ of sitting headroom. A person of average height (5’8″) needs 2’11”.

Who Needs NOAA?

Often, you can see the approach of a front or squall on radar, usually with the unit set on the 6- or 12-mile range.

Tide is highest at the full new moon.

‘Tis Hurricane Season

June, too soon;

July, stand by;

August, look out!

September, you will remember.

October, all over.

Weather Sayings:

Red sky at night, sailors delight.

Red sky at morning, sailors take warning.

When a halo rings the moon or sun,

rain will come upon the run.

Mackerel skies and mares’ tails,

make tall ships carry low sails.

(Cirrus clouds, which resemble mackerels and the wisps of a horse’s tail, indicate approaching storms.)

The American Cancer Society recommends using a sunblock with on SPF of 15. Recent studies have shown that the advantages of increasing SPF above 15 may not increase the effectiveness correspondingly.

Send a Wire

When fishing, to calculate the depth to which solid wire line sinks while trolling, count 1′ of depth for every 10′ of line. So when trolling, say, 150′ of wire line, your lure will be working around 15′ (deeper if you use a trolling weight).

To replace an IGFA world record for a fish weighing less than 25 pounds, the replacement weight must be at least 2 ounces more than the existing record. To replace an IGFA record for a fish weighing 25 pounds or more, the replacement weight must be at least 1/2 of 1 percent more than the existing record.

Listen Hear?

You’re not required to have your radio on. But when it is, the law says you must listen to Channel 16 or, for recreational boats, Channel 9.

Winds coming out of the south or east-tides will be stronger and later than expected. Winds coming out of the north or west-tides will be diminished and earlier than expected.

At one knot, a boat will travel approximately 1.7′ each second.

To convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32 then multiply by .555. To convert from Celsius to Fahrenheit, multiply by 1.8 then add 32.

What? No 911?

Radio distress signals:

MAYDAY Vessel is threatened by grave and/or imminent danger and requires immediate assistance. PAN-PAN Indicates caller has an urgent message regarding safety of a person or vessel. SECURITÉ (“se-cur-itay”) Indicates caller is about to transmit information concerning safety to navigation or give an important meteorological warning.

A Current Affair Selecting Wire Gauge

Ski-Daddle Hand Signals for Waterskiers

** **Faster: Palm of one hand up Slower: Palm of one hand down Speed okay: Arm up; thumb and forefinger form a circle Right turn: Arm out pointing right Left turn: Arm out pointing left Return to drop-off area: Arm pointing down at a 45-degree angle and swinging Cut motor: Finger drawn across the throat Stop: Hand up, palm forward, like a police officer Skier okay after fall: Hands clenched overhead Pick me up or fallen skier: One ski pointing vertically out of the water ** **

Navy Signal Corps Two-Letter Flag Signals

Hold On! Choosing a Working Anchor

Channel Markers VHF Channels

Seven signs that fish are probably nearby

1. A distinct smell like cucumber or cantaloupe often means that fish have been foraging for bait in the vicinity. The smell comes from oils in the chewed-up fish as it floats to the surface.

2. Smooth, thin surface slicks may indicate fish feeding below. The slicks are also caused by fish oils.

3. If birds are working the surface, something is or was there.

4. A sudden eruption of white over a large area says fish are feeding.

5. What appears as a dark stick might in fact be a marlin bill. Dark shapes may be fins. Shadows could be the entire fish.

6. Surface rips where you can see the color of water change or where currents come together churning the surface often cause bait fish to panic. Bigger fish know this and come to eat.

7. Weedlines, driftwood, and buoys are offshore structures that offer small fish protection in open water. If small fish are present, big fish will not be far behind.

Torque About It

To determine the torque of an engine at WOT, use this formula: horsepower x 5.252 __________________ =Torque rpm

• More: How-To , Hurricane Preparation , Seamanship

More How To

Boating Deaths Down…With One Exception

Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of US Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers

How to Use an Electric Windlass Anchor System

The Benefits of GPS Integration

Choosing the Right Pipework Finish

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Facts About Boats

If you have ever been on a boat you already know how much fun it is.

Boats have been around for thousands of years and play an important role in our lives.

We depend on these “water-vehicles” for many things.

Read on to discover all about boats.

We will be exploring the history of the boat, the different types of boats and so much more.

So grab your lifejacket and lets dive right in.

Quick Navigation

The History of Boats

Believe it or not, the first known boat dates back around 8,000 years ago.

Although boats have been around a long time, the Ancient Egyptians were the first to be credited for it.

They made them from the papyrus plant. These boats were long and thin and were used for short trips or fishing along the Nile.

As time went on, the Egyptians became more knowledgeable about the construction of boats.

In fact, these early people learned how to make many different types of these water-vehicles.

Wooden Boats:  these boats were made from the acacia tree and also from cedar they imported from Lebanon.

The Egyptians then added a sail to make traveling faster and easier.

Cargo Ships: As time went on, they learned how to construct bigger boats. These were so sturdy they could hold 500 tons of rocks!

Funeral Boats : these small model boats were used in funerals.

The boat would be buried with a person to help carry them to the afterlife. Some Pharaohs actually had full-size boats buried with them in their tombs.

Ponder This:  the early Egyptians didn’t have any nails. How did they keep their boats from falling apart? Find the answer in More Freaky Factoids.

It’s All About the Buoyancy

We know that boats float, but did you ever wonder how it happens?

The science behind this wonder is really quite simple. It’s called, Buoyancy.

Buoyancy is an invisible upward force. This force goes to work when an object is placed in the water (or any liquid).

If the object is very dense (like a stone) then the force cannot hold it up and it sinks.

The object must be less dense than the water.

When people first started making boats, they realized they needed to hollow them out.

This makes them less dense and allows the water to exert enough force to keep it afloat.

Ponder This:  which boat do you think will move faster, a flat-bottom or a v-shaped bottom?

Types of Boats

Since humans learned how to navigate through the water, they began to build many types of boats. Read on to see how many different boats we use today.

• Cargo ships
• Cruise ships
• Motor boats

Ponder This:  a megayacht is a type of luxury boat owned by a person or even a company. These boats can reach tremendous lengths. How long do you think the biggest megayacht is?

What NOT to Do On a Boat

Since people don’t float all that well, there are some things you should never do on a boat. Check out our safety rules for fun boating.

• Lean over the side as far as you can. This includes having someone hold onto your ankles so you can touch the water.
• Use your Nana’s underwear as a sail. She won’t be happy.
• Spit into the wind as you are zooming along.
• Yell, “man overboard” while flailing your arms with a shocked look on your face.
• Don’t yell “shark” either.
• Do cartwheels
• Rock back and forth as hard as you can, no matter how much your sister screams. It’s not a carnival ride.

Ponder This:  what is the one thing you should ALWAYS do in a boat?

More Freaky Factoids

We haven’t floated over all the fun just yet. Here are the answers to your ponder these questions and more freaky facts. Check it out.

Boat Facts for Kids

• The back part of a boat is called, the stern?
• The front of the boat is a bow?
• The tall pole on a sailboat is called, the mast?
• The body of a boat is the hull?
• The right, forward-facing side of a boat is called starboard?
• The left side of a boat is the port?
• The person in charge of the boat is called, Captain?
• You should always wear a lifejacket in a boat? Even if you are a great swimmer,
• Lifejacket are specially designed vests will keep you afloat.
• The Egyptians used short planks in the construction of their early boats? These were hooked together then tied tightly with ropes.
• A V-shaped bottom boat will move faster than a flat-bottomed? This is because a flat surface has more contact with the water. This creates more drag on the boat, which makes it slow and harder to move.
• Megayachts can reach lengths of 150 meters long (492 feet)?

Now that you have learned all these fascinating facts, you can float over to your friends and family to share your new-found knowledge.

You might just become known as “the captain of the best boat facts ever.”

18 Facts About Yacht Racing

Written by Oralla Hager

Modified & Updated: 01 Jun 2024

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

• Human Activities

Yacht racing is a thrilling and exhilarating sport that combines skill, strategy, and a deep love for the open waters. Whether you’re a professional sailor or a passionate spectator, yacht racing offers an exciting display of speed, tactics, and teamwork. From the prestigious America’s Cup to local regattas, the world of yacht racing is filled with fascinating facts and stories that contribute to its rich history and allure. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 captivating facts about yacht racing that showcase the glamour, challenges, and innovation that are intrinsically tied to this remarkable sport. So fasten your seatbelts and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery as we explore the fascinating world of yacht racing.

Key Takeaways:

• Yacht racing is an ancient and thrilling sport that challenges sailors to navigate extreme weather conditions and push the boundaries of speed and endurance.
• Whether you’re a professional sailor or a recreational enthusiast, yacht racing offers an exhilarating blend of teamwork, strategy, and adrenaline-pumping excitement on the open seas.

Yacht Racing: An Exhilarating Water Sport

Yacht racing, often referred to as the “Formula One of the seas,” is a thrilling water sport that combines the elegance of sailing with intense competition. Sailors from around the world participate in this high-speed, adrenaline-pumping activity that showcases skill, strategy, and teamwork.

The Oldest Regatta

The first recorded yacht race took place in 1661, making yacht racing one of the oldest sports in the world. It originated in England as a friendly competition between wealthy yacht owners.

Around the World: The Volvo Ocean Race

The Volvo Ocean Race, formerly known as the Whitbread Round the World Race, is a legendary yacht race that challenges sailors to navigate the treacherous seas for approximately 45,000 nautical miles. It is one of the toughest and most prestigious yacht races in the world.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Yacht racing often takes place in extreme weather conditions, including storms, high winds, and heavy rain . Competitors need to have excellent seamanship skills and be prepared to face unpredictable challenges on the open seas.

Sailing Solo: The Vendée Globe

The Vendée Globe is a solo round-the-world yacht race held every four years. It tests the endurance, navigation skills, and mental strength of the sailors as they embark on a solo journey spanning approximately 24,000 nautical miles.

The Fastest Yachts

Yacht racing showcases some of the fastest sailing vessels in the world. Cutting-edge technology and design advancements allow these high-performance yachts to reach incredible speeds , often exceeding 40 knots (46 mph).

Olympic Yachting

Yacht racing is an Olympic sport and has been a part of the Summer Olympics since It involves multiple classes of sailboats, providing a platform for national teams to compete for gold, silver, and bronze medals.

Match Racing: One-on-One Battles

Match racing is a competitive format of yacht racing where two boats compete against each other in a series of head-to-head matches. The objective is to outmaneuver the opponent and cross the finish line first.

Cup Competitions: The America’s Cup

The America’s Cup is the oldest international sporting trophy, dating back to This prestigious yacht race features teams from different countries vying for the title on technologically advanced yachts , known as “foiling” yachts.

The Volvo Ocean Race Trophy

The Volvo Ocean Race Trophy, also known as the “Warrior Trophy,” is awarded to the winner of the Volvo Ocean Race . It represents the determination, endurance, and skill required to conquer the demanding conditions of the race.

Yacht Racing Etiquette

Yacht racing has its own set of rules and etiquette to ensure fair competition and safety. Sailors must adhere to these guidelines, which govern aspects such as right of way, starting procedures, and sportsmanship.

The World Match Racing Tour

The World Match Racing Tour is a professional sailing series that showcases the best match racing talent from around the globe. It consists of a series of events held in different locations, culminating in a grand finale where the world champion is crowned.

Yachting Societies and Clubs

Yacht racing has a vibrant community of enthusiasts and clubs dedicated to organizing races, promoting the sport, and fostering camaraderie among sailors. These clubs often host regattas and provide training opportunities for both beginners and experienced sailors.

Navigation and Strategy

Successful yacht racing requires skilled navigation and strategic planning. Sailors must carefully analyze wind patterns, tides, and currents to make informed decisions that will optimize their speed and position on the racecourse.

Teamwork and Communication

Yacht racing is a team sport that relies on effective teamwork and communication. Crew members must work in harmony, coordinating their efforts to trim the sails , steer the yacht, and execute maneuvers with precision.

Record-Breaking Achievements

Yacht racing has witnessed remarkable record-breaking achievements over the years. Sailors have smashed speed records , completed unprecedented circumnavigations, and pushed the boundaries of what was once thought possible in the world of sailing.

Challenging Racecourses

Yacht races are held on various racecourses , each presenting its own set of challenges. From open-ocean distances to tight coastal courses, each racecourse tests the skills and endurance of sailors in different ways.

Yacht Racing for All

Yacht racing is not limited to professional sailors ; it is a sport that can be enjoyed by enthusiasts of all skill levels. Many clubs and organizations offer opportunities for recreational sailors to participate in friendly regattas and experience the thrill of racing.

In conclusion, yacht racing is a riveting sport that blends skill, technology, and human prowess. From breathtaking speed to grueling endurance challenges , it captivates both participants and spectators alike. Whether you dream of hoisting the Volvo Ocean Race Trophy or simply enjoy the thrill of sailing on a competitive level, yacht racing offers a world of excitement on the open seas.

Yacht racing is a thrilling and competitive sport that combines the excitement of sailing with the challenge of strategic maneuvering. With its rich history and global appeal, there are numerous fascinating facts about yacht racing that highlight its unique nature. From the incredible speeds reached by these vessels to the teamwork and skill required by the crew, yacht racing offers a truly exhilarating experience for both participants and spectators alike. Whether you’re an avid sailor or simply intrigued by the world of competitive sailing, yacht racing is an event that should not be missed.

1. How fast do racing yachts go?

Racing yachts can reach speeds of up to 30 knots (about 35 miles per hour) or even more, depending on wind conditions and the design of the yacht.

2. How long do yacht races typically last?

The duration of yacht races can vary greatly, ranging from a few hours to several days or even weeks for longer endurance races like the Volvo Ocean Race.

3. How many people are usually on a racing yacht?

The number of crew members on a racing yacht depends on the size and class of the yacht. It can range from a small crew of two or three to larger teams of up to 30 people.

4. Is yacht racing a dangerous sport?

While yacht racing can be physically demanding and challenging, it is generally considered to be a safe sport when proper precautions and safety measures are followed.

5. Are there different classes of racing yachts?

Yes, there are different classes of racing yachts based on their size, design, and performance characteristics. These classes ensure fair competition within specific parameters.

6. Are there any famous yacht racing events?

Yes, some of the most famous yacht racing events include the America’s Cup, the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, the Fastnet Race, and the Vendée Globe.

7. Can anyone participate in yacht racing?

While yacht racing is often associated with professional sailors, there are also opportunities for amateur and recreational sailors to participate in local or club-level races.

8. How can I get involved in yacht racing?

To get involved in yacht racing, you can join a sailing club, take sailing lessons, or reach out to local racing organizations to find opportunities to crew on racing yachts.

9. Are there any age restrictions for participating in yacht races?

Age restrictions may vary depending on the specific race and regulations. However, there are often youth sailing programs and categories specifically designed for younger participants.

10. What distinguishes yacht racing from other sailing activities?

Yacht racing is a competitive sport that focuses on speed, strategy, and tactics , whereas other sailing activities like leisure cruising or pleasure sailing are more focused on relaxation and enjoyment of the journey.

Yacht racing captures the spirit of adventure, pitting skilled sailors against wind, waves, and worthy opponents. From solo circumnavigations to legendary regattas, this thrilling sport has a rich history filled with triumphs, challenges, and unforgettable moments. As you've learned about yacht racing's exhilarating world, why not explore more maritime marvels? Delve into the prestigious America's Cup , where cutting-edge technology meets centuries of tradition. Uncover little-known facts about this iconic event that has captivated enthusiasts since 1851. Set sail on a journey of discovery as you navigate through these compelling articles, each offering a unique perspective on the world of competitive sailing.

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30 Interesting Facts About Ships and Boats

Here are 30 Interesting Facts About Ships and Boats.

1-5 Facts About Ships and Boats

1. A Frenchwoman, Jeanne de Clisson, became a pirate in the 1300’s to revenge her husband’s death who was beheaded. She sold her lands to buy 3 ships. They were painted black with red sails. She hunted French ships, caught nobles, whom she personally beheaded with an axe. – Source

2. In 1812, an American ship rescued a British crew stranded on an island. While the Americans went out to search for food for the extra crew, the British took over the ship and left the Americans stranded on the island. – Source

3. A man who survived the fire and sinking of a ship in 1871, left him emotionally scarred. About 41 years later, he finally was able to overcome his fears and nightmares, deciding to sail again, only to die in the sinking of a new ship, the Titanic. – Source

4. In 1861 a slave took over a confederate ship and delivered it to the Union. He later was given the ship to command during the Civil War. After the war, he bought the house he was a slave in, and became a US congressman. – Source

6-10 Facts About Ships and Boats

6. Despite never having received naval training or participating in naval combat prior to the war, and constantly being outnumbered and out-supplied, Admiral Yi Sun Shin defeated 333 Japanese ships with only 13 Korean ships at the Battle of Myeongnyang. – Source

7. While shooting Pirates XXX on a ship in Florida, the ship owner was told the movie was a “Disney film for families.” – Source

8. A treasure hunter named Tommy Thompson located a ship that sank in 1857 called the SS Central America. The ship carried several tons of gold, and in 1987, he recovered over $1 billion worth of gold from it. He never paid back his crew or investors, and hasn’t been seen in years. – Source

9. The real crew on the Captain Phillips’ ship say that he is a fraud, he endangered them, the film is a lie, and they sued for “willful, wanton and conscious disregard for their safety.” – Source

10. There is an old abandoned Russian cruise ship roaming international waters since 2013. – Source

11-15 Facts About Ships and Boats

11. A ship named Baychimo abandoned off the coast of Alaska in 1931 was spotted, still adrift in the Arctic, in 1969. – Source

12. Swedish warship Vasa sank in 1628 and was recovered from the ocean in 1961 almost completely intact. This is the only remaining intact ship from the 1600’s. This ship is housed in The Vasa Museum in Stockholm Sweden, a museum built around the ship. – Source

13. Chunosuke Matsuyama, a Japanese Seamen, sent a message in a bottle in 1784 that his ship had wrecked. It washed up in 1935 in the village where he was born. – Source

14. A ferry sank in the Baltic Sea in 1994. The ship and 852 passengers are still at the bottom of the sea, and it is illegal to dive to it. – Source

15. After France refused to deliver five missile boats Israel bought from them, Israel executed a heist to steal the boats and piloted them back to Israel. – Source

16-20 Facts About Ships and Boats

16. In 2004, a party yacht tipped over when the passengers all moved to one side of the boat as it passed a nude beach in Texas. – Source

17. In 2005, a tour bus driver for the Dave Matthews Band released the bus’ septic tank over a grate above the Chicago River. A boat full of sightseers was below at the time, and its passengers were covered with 800 lbs of human waste. – Source

18. Archimedes developed an anti-ship weapon called the Claw of Archimedes. It lifted a ship by the prow then dropped it, often causing the vessel to capsize or at least severely damaging it. – Source

19. During WW2, a Dutch warship was disguised as a tropical island to escape detection by the Japanese. It was the only ship of its class to survive. – Source

20. An intact steamboat from 1856 was excavated in 1988 under 45 feet of dirt in a farmer’s field. Thousands of artifacts were excavated and preserved so well that some of the food was still edible. – Source

21-25 Facts About Ships and Boats

21. In 2004, a study was published showing that retiring to a cruise ship was often as cost effective as retiring to a retirement home and was more effective in providing quality of life. – Source

22. In 2012, an Air Canada flight took a detour to find a stranded Australian yacht. The passengers of the Boeing 777 found the yacht only 25 minutes after the distress beacon was activated. – Source

23. Edgar Allen Poe wrote a novel in 1838 about a shipwreck where the survivors ate one of their own, Richard Parker. About 46 years later, a yacht called the Mignonette sank, leaving 4 survivors. They too ate one of the survivors, a cabin boy named Richard Parker. – Source

24. One of the mightiest pirates that ever lived was a Chinese female prostitute named Ching Shih. She controlled 1,800 ships and 80,000 sailors. – Source

25. When researchers from Texas State University, studying the 17th century pirate Captain Morgan ran out of funds while attempting to retrieve artifacts from his sunken ships off the coast of Panama, none other than the Captain Morgan rum company granted them money to continue their work. – Source

26-30 Facts About Ships and Boats

26. Whenever a pirate stopped a merchant ship, it was not uncommon for a handful of merchant crewmen to join the pirates. – Source

27. Over a period of 200 years, 3 ships perished at the same location of the coast of Wales, on the same day (December 5th) and all three had only one survivor. The 3 survivors all had the same name: Hugh Williams. – Source

28. In 2013, the chef of a sunken ship survived for 3 days under the ocean after taking refuge in an air pocket of the ship.- Source

29. Quarantine comes from the Latin word for 40, which was the number of a days a ship had to wait to dock because of the plague. – Source

30. During the Battle off Samar, a single American destroyer charged forward against a huge Japanese force. The ship did so much damage to the Japanese that when she sank, a passing Japanese ship saluted the sinking vessel. – Source

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Last Update: November 9, 2021

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151 Facts About The History Of Boats That Will Amaze You

Boats have been used by humankind for several thousand years.

The earliest boats were mere logs or rafts made of reeds. Today, we use boats of various kinds, such as motorized boats, paddle boats, boats with oars, among many others.

These days, you may find boats in innumerable styles and sizes. From travel to fishing, sports to recreation, boats have been used by people for various reasons too!

Boats are much smaller sailing vessels than ships. While ships are meant for cargo and passenger movement in the seas and oceans, boats are primarily used for fishing and inland water transportation.

The size and material of construction of a boat differ according to the purpose for which it is intended to be used. Wood, fiberglass, and aluminum are some of the materials used in building boats.

Well! If you are curious to know more about the boat's journey in the past, continue reading for fascinating information on boats.

If you enjoy reading this article, you will surely enjoy our other articles on the history of cars and the history of glow sticks . Don't miss reading these!

Fun Facts About Boats

Have you ever been on a boat? Smaller boats such as canoes, rafts, or sailboats are designed for inland water bodies like rivers, lakes, or streams.

However, larger boats or ships, which include military ships, cruise ships, yachts, and cargo ships, are designed for voyages across the oceans and seas. Boating is one of the most fun-filled and enjoyable activities. Not just boating, but the facts about boats can be equally interesting.

The Netherlanders are thought to have built the first boats in the world. The Pesse canoe, a dugout made from the trunk of the scotch pine tree, is the oldest found boat in the world. It was constructed between 8200 BC and 7600 BC. It is on display in the Drents Museum, the Netherlands.

Since ancient times, several myths have existed regarding boats. Early sailors believed in several superstitions and luck to guide them through their travels. For instance, seeing sea birds was considered a good omen.

Sailors also believed that finding cats on a boat brought good fortune. Sailors practice spitting into the sea before sailing to bring good luck. Tattooing images of a compass rose is thought to bring good luck to sailors.

Carrying bananas on the boat is believed to bring bad luck to fishing boats. Whistling is thought to bring strong winds and rough weather. Traveling with women and red-haired people is also considered to bring bad omens.

These beliefs may sound silly, but many of these myths and omens continue among sailors even today.

In some places, houseboats are used to attract tourists. The houseboats have all the facilities similar to a house on land. Most boats are not motorized but moored to remain stationary all year long.

The Austronesian people from Taiwan were those who developed the first sailing ships that sailed on the sea. Outriggers, catamarans, and craw claw sails were a few of their inventions that have sailed far across the oceans.

Initially, boat propulsion was done by manual means, including paddling, rowing, or setting poles. Some boats sailed with the wind as a natural propellor. As we progressed, we developed advanced mechanical engines. For example, punts were boats propelled by poles. Other human-powered boats are kayaks, canoes, and gondolas. 

Boats have been a vital element in trade and commerce. In the past, archaeological evidence suggests the use of boats as trade vessels between the Indus Valley Civilization and Mesopotamia.

The Uru, the traditional sailing vessel made of teak wood in Kerala, southwestern India, has been used since ancient times. The Arabs and Greeks of ancient times used uruses as trading vessels. Urus had a transport capacity of about 440 US tons ( 399 met ton)

Power vessels or sailing boats with good aesthetic qualities used for cruising, pleasure, or racing, which are at least 33 ft (10 m) long, are called yachts. 

The Dutch invented the first yacht in the 14th century. Initially, the boats were used to chase out pirates and smugglers. However, later, these small boats sailed out to celebrate their merchant ships' return.

The world's largest ship today is the Symphony of the Seas. It is 1,184 ft (361 m) long, 216 ft (65.7 m) wide, has a gross tonnage of 228,081, and has a passenger capacity of up to 6,680 people.

History Of Boats-Timeline

Humans have been using boats since the prehistoric era. Yet, studies suggest that the first boats worthy of sail were most likely to have been built much earlier in time, around 800,000 years ago. Surprisingly, these boats were not built by humans but by their ancestors, the Homo Erectus - the upright primitive man.

However, John Fitch, an American inventor, takes credit for inventing the first steamboat. From boats made of logs and reeds to advanced large ships, yachts, and cruise liners, the journey of boats in history has been incredible. Let us look into the timeline that highlights some of the significant milestones in ship and boat building.

Several millennia ago, people created rafts using logs and the bark of trees and used them to sail through water. They used animal hides to cover the frames of the boats. Later, they used tree trunks, hollowed them out, and made dugouts.

Around 4,000 BC, the ancient Egyptians made the first sailing boats by tying up reeds together to sail through the Nile river. They used the papyrus reeds, which grew widely along the river and its delta region. This was called the skiff. Today, the Egyptian boat is called the felucca.

By 2500 BC, wooden boats were made by the Egyptians, who enabled them to sail across the seas and oceans.

Around 1550 BC, the Canaan civilization in Syria and Lebanon used the galley, a ship propelled by oars.

By 1000 AD, the longships of the Vikings became the epitome of the naval power of Scandinavia. Viking longships were marine vessels from Ireland and Scandinavia used for warfare, exploration, trade, and commerce. The long and narrow designs of these ships enabled them to sail in the open sea and on rivers.

Around the second century AD, the Chinese came up with their own sailing ships, called junk. The junks had up to five masts, projecting bows, and were designed with watertight compartments and steering rudders. The Chinese junks were used in warfare and transportation.

Since the 1450s wooden ships, with up to four masts, came into service and were used by travelers and explorers of several countries. They were also used as trade vessels and for warfare.

By the 1800s, British and American shipyards constructed merchant vessels called ' clipper ships ' for cargo and passengers. These ships were known for their speed.

In 1818, shipping companies also used steam power in ships along with wind power. The first steamship navigated across the Atlantic Ocean. 

In the 1850s, Glasgow's John Elder invented the marine compound engine.

The mid of the 19th century also saw the introduction of ocean liners into the shipping industry.

Later by the end of the century, riverboats with paddle wheels on either side, called paddle steamers, became the primary mode of transport on rivers.

In 1910, there was a change in the fuel used in ships. Diesel power replaced coal, and oil was used in place of steam.

In 1980, cargo transportation saw a significant change with the use of container ships to move cargo. Cargo ships can carry as many as one thousand containers stacked on deck at a time.

By the end of the 20th century, in the '90s, passenger cruise ships were widely used for holidaying. The cruise ships had state-of-the-art facilities, including restaurants, pools, and other recreational activities.

Materials Used To Make Boats

Boats are used for several purposes. Depending on the intended purpose, they differ in style, size, and construction material.

From prehistoric times till today, boats and ships have been built using a wide range of materials. With advancements in technology and intellect, we employ new materials in boat and ship-building. These materials are subject to their availability and local traditions.

Prehistoric boats or rafts required only primitive cutting tools. Materials such as wooden logs, bamboo, or reeds were tied together using palm fibers or vines.

Later, when civilizations developed, natural materials continued to be used in building boats. Most boats were made of things available in the wild—primarily wood and other materials such as animal skins, barks of trees, and reeds.

Until the mid of the 19th century, early boats included reed boats, canoes made of birch tree bark, kayaks made of animal hide, dugout canoes, and coracles made of logs.

Later, many boats were built using steel frames or iron, along with wooden planks. Due to the reduced cost of steel, steel ships and boats have gradually begun to be widely used. Soon, steel boats replaced wooden boats in fishing fleets and industrial boats.

Around the '20s, pleasure boats and recreational boats made of galvanized iron and aluminum became widely used. Later, in the mid of the 20th century, fiberglass boats became popular. These boats are strong and corrosion-resistant. However, they can have structural degradation because of sunlight and temperature variations. Foam is also used as a layer between wood and fiberglass.

In 1955, Christopher Cockerell developed hovercraft boats that were designed to stay afloat on cushions. The engines provided propulsion to the boat by blowing air into these cushions, besides giving them a lift.

Today, people have gotten creative with innovative ideas for making boats; rafts made of hundreds of plastic bottles and Styrofoam are examples.

Uses Of Boats In Ancient Times

Boats played a significant role in the lives of ancient people. Boats are used for many purposes these days. From exploration to recreation, transportation to holidaying, boats and ships are used in several spheres.

However, ancient times were different. It is believed that boats were probably an accidental invention by the Homo Erectus, our human ancestors. What did they use boats for?

Prehistoric rafts were used mainly for fishing needs.

Over a million years ago, they used them for water transportation, long before human beings.

In the ancient days, the most crucial purpose of a boat was to travel through water bodies such as lakes and rivers. Early boats were the chief means of water transport that facilitated trade and contact with distant areas.

Besides, early vessels were used in exploration and warfare too.

Many civilizations used boats in ways specific to them. For instance, the Egyptians used papyrus reed boats to transport royal mummies across the river Nile to their tombs. The early boat carried almost everything-from food grains to coffins across the river.

Kings moved Gods' deities from one temple to another.

Here at Kidadl , we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly facts   for everyone to enjoy! If you liked our suggestions for 151 facts about the history of boats that will amaze you, then why not take a look at the history of cooking oil or the history of drinking straws? 

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Interesting Facts about Boats

It is one of the culture-inspired things in America that people love boating. Most Americans have their own boats, which they take out for a ride during family holidays or solo trips. Other people who do not own boats simply rent them out. It is why boating culture has exponentially increased in the past decades.  

According to statistics, the US leisure boat market has been steadily booming since 2018, and it is expected to reach about 14.22 billion USD by the end of 2028. If you have ever been interested in boating, whether personal or rented, there is tons of information about types of boats, techniques, and rentals.

1. Americans Own More Than 11 Million Recreational Boats  

You might be one of them, as approximately 11.8 million Americans are boat owners. With the rise in this leisure activity, official statistics show a steady 3% increase in the number of boat owners every year. [ 1 ]

2. In 2004, an Unfortunate Yacht Incident Happened Near Hippie Hollow, Texas

In 2004, a yacht fell over and sank near the Hippie Hollow, Texas. Passengers on board were going for a party who crowded one side of the yacht in hopes of catching a glimpse of nude sunbathers at the nudist beach.

3. A Boat is lighter than a Ship

If you use the words boat and ship synonymously, you cannot be more wrong. A boat is any mode of water transport that weighs less than 500 tons. On the other hand, a mode of water transport weighing more than 500 tons is a ship. Also, a ship is square-rigged with more or less three masts, while the boat does not have masts. 

Given the weight and mechanical qualities compared to a boat, a ship is made to go deep into the ocean water. [ 2 ]

4. A Big Russian Cruise Ship Has Been Sailing in the Open Waters of the Atlantic Since 2013

A big Russian cruise ship, the MV Lyubov Orlova, broke free from the towing line while it was going to the scrapyard in 2013. According to the Maritime Authorities, that big cruise ship has been sailing unmanned in the open ocean waters. 

It was a high-class Yugoslav ice-strengthened Maria Yermolova class cruise ship used for big Atlantic tours. It was decommissioned in 2010 and was on its way to a scrapyard in the Dominican Republic. [ 3 ]

5. Whistling On the Boat Is Considered a Bad Omen

Since medieval times, sailors who spent numerous days on ships in the ocean considered strong winds the greatest enemy. Since that time, sailors considered whistling a bad omen for the sailing boat or ship. 

It is imagined that whistling on the ship brings stormy weather, thus affecting an otherwise smooth sail due to the storm. By the same rule, singing is also considered a bad omen. 

6. Another Bad Omen for Ships and Boats Is to Carry Bananas Onboard

It is called the banana superstition, which originated back in the 1700s. During that time, a series of unfortunate sea incidents happened to the boats or ships, most of which were carrying bananas. Since then, having bananas onboard while journeying via the sea is considered a sign of misfortune or danger. 

7. A Man Who Got a Second Chance at Life Died In the Unfortunate Titanic Incident

A man had gotten a second chance at life in 1871 when he was luckily saved from a sinking ship. He was considered quite fortunate until he got his ticket for Titanic. He boarded the Titanic only to lose his life in the same manner after 41 years.

8. A Dutch Ship Evaded Japanese Bombers for a Long Time during WWII

During the Battle of the Java Sea in 1942, the last Dutch warship surviving till the last was the HNLMS Abraham Crijnssen. The warship had planned to escape to Australia but soon got stranded and left alone. The crew members aboard had the most fantastic ideas of all time to survive the bombings. 

They decided to give their ship a makeover to look like an island. They cut down the trees from the nearest island and chopped timber. The crew was successful in doing so, the camouflage was perfect, and the ship survived for quite a long time. [ 4 ]

9. A US Airways Flight 1549 Made a Water Landing in 2009

Manned by Captain Sullenberger, the US Airways Flight 1549 made a water landing on 5 th January 2009. Sullenberger made a deliberate and conscious landing on the water while ditching the airliners nearby so that the rescue teams could easily reach the passengers. [ 5 ]

By the time rescue teams arrived, people had gotten out of the plane safely and were resting on the plane’s wings which floated as mini boats on the Hudson River in New York. 

10. The World’s Longest Yacht Is About 179.7 Meters Long

Interestingly, the world’s longest yacht is that it measures about 179.7 meters in length. This larger-than-life yacht is owned by the Royal Family of Abu Dhabi and was built in 2013. This super-luxury yacht is called Azzam and is adorned with exquisite French interior design. The Azzam is worth about $600 million. [ 6 ]

11. Boats Can Last Up To 10 to 25 Years

The lifespan of a boat is in between 10 to 25 years. However, this figure can vary from 5 years to a couple more years, depending on the quality of materials used to construct the boat. Another factor impacting the lifespan of a boat or ship is its maintenance.

12. The Word Quarantine Was Used For the Boats during the Plague Outbreak

We all are pretty familiar with the word quarantine nowadays. This word originated from the times when a plague outbreak forced the ships to wait at the dock for about forty days. So, previously, the number 40 and the word quarantine went hand in hand for sailors and boat crew members.

13. Boats Hold a Significant Value in Egyptian Culture and Their Belief in the Afterlife

Egyptians believe that their souls are carried across the river during their afterlife. So, the image of a boat in their funeral denotes easy to travel to the afterlife. They also have concepts of Funeral Boats, which according to them, carry dead people to their destined places in the afterlife. 

14. Another Myth about Bringing Bad Luck to the Ship or Boat Is Having Redheads On Board

Sailors in the previous times held a myth that having redheaded people on board brings bad luck. It was a powerful custom in the past, and often redheaded people were not allowed on the cruise. The sailors avoided redheads at any cost. However, if they had to talk to each other, the sailor was obligated to speak first to mitigate the danger. 

15. Boats are Never Renamed

Once given a name and christened, changing the name of the boat or ship is also considered to bring bad luck to the journey. 

16. The Fastest Boat Ever Was Built in 1978

The first fastest boat ever was constructed in 1978 in Australia. It was named the Spirit of Australia as it could reach about 317 miles per hour. The ship had a flat bottom to reach such high speeds. [ 7 ]

17. The Knock Nevis is The Largest Ship in the World

Also formerly known as Seawise Giant, The Knock Nevis, is the largest ship in the world. It is owned by Norway and is a supertanker measuring up to 458 meters in length and 69 meters in width. Its other names are Happy Giant and Jahre Viking. 

18. The Most Used Sea Route Is Suez Canal

Suez Canal is the most famous sea route taken by ships and boats globally. In 2020 only, approximately 19,000 ships took this sea route for transit purposes and reached their destination. 

19. The Vasa Sank In 1628 and Recovered In 1961 in Perfect Condition

Astonishingly, a ship that sank into the Baltic Sea in 1628 was recovered in 1961 without any damages at all. The ship’s state was immaculate as it sank in the sheltered harbor in the Baltic Sea, which saved it from the raging sea storms. [ 9 ]

Miracles Happen – Even at Seas 

Sea miracles are among the most astonishing and interesting ones as they blow people’s minds off with their absurdity and science. Although Americans love their boats so much, only a few know about them and are familiar with these interesting facts. 

References 

• https://themariner.com/blog/how-many-boats-registered-in-us/  
• https://www.marineinsight.com/types-of-ships/7-differences-between-a-ship-and-a-boat/  
• https://www.abandonedspaces.com/uncategorized/ghost-ship-abandoned-russian-cruise-ship-thats-roaming-international-waters.html?chrome=1
• https://www.businessinsider.com/a-stranded-dutch-warship-evaded-japanese-bombers-in-wwii-by-disgusing-itself-as-an-island-2015-7
• https://www.pagecentertraining.psu.edu/public-relations-ethics/ethics-in-crisis-management/lesson-2-access-to-information-during-a-crisis/case-study-tbd/
• https://www.atlasmarinesystems.com/most-expensive-yachts
• https://www.sea.museum/2017/11/20/ken-warby-and-spirit-of-australia-still-the-world-record-holder-39-years-later
• https://faculty.up.edu/lulay/failure/vasacasestudy.pdf
• facts about boats
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• things you didn’t know about boats

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12 Sensational Facts about Super Yachts

We’ve all seen the photos of these marine beauties – enormous boats owned or chartered by the mega rich floating on turquoise waters all across the globe! It takes something special to take a simple boat to super yacht status, and these opulent floating dreams are one of the ultimate displays of wealth and luxury. Here are some fun facts about super yachts that might just fascinate you.

1. What’s the biggest super yacht in the world?

The world’s ‘most super’ yacht is the Azzam . It’s the biggest of them all when it comes to sheer number of guests, and it’s around 590 feet long. It also cost an impressive $600 million to bring to life, over the course of four years. It was owned by the late, former UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

2. These are more than just boats alone!

Super yachts are often regarded as being so ‘super’ thanks to the sheer variety of extras they come packed with. For example, did you know that some super yachts arrive with helipads, cinemas, gyms and pools? What’s wrong with just taking a cruise, honestly?

3. Running a super yacht is a costly business!

Super yachts on their own cost a pretty penny, but underneath all of that glamour and pizzazz, there’s running fees! It’s though that $3 billion a year is shelled out, overall, just to keep these beauties running. In fact, you can expect to spend approximately 10% of the total value of a super yacht just to keep it running per year.

4. But, they won’t stay pricey forever.

It’s a misconception that super yachts gain value over time. In fact, they are very likely to dip in price – luxury tastes change over the years, and as such, super yacht values will depreciate. Better buy in fast, then!

5. Old boats don’t come cheap…

Much of the depreciation you’ll expect from your super yacht arises thanks to rising costs. For example, did you know that the older your boat, the more it’ll cost to keep it on the water and running?

6. America is big on super yachts!

The US owns more super yachts than any other country in the world, and up until 2022, when Russian assets were seized due to curtailment during the Ukraine War, Russia was close behind in second.

7. Building one of these beauties takes time and money.

Building super yachts isn’t cheap, either. In fact, you can estimate the average cost by multiplying each meter of boat by a million dollars!

8. You’ll need lots of help to run a super yacht!

Given the size and complexity of super yachts, it’s reasonable to expect these boats to possess some form of crew on board. In fact, it’s likely you will find at least five people – up to ten in some cases – helping to run various areas of the ship.

9. Could super yachts pose a threat?

There are even some super yachts that come with weapons attached. For example, the Radiant is a super yacht that possesses guns designed to deafen enemies! It’s even got the potential to sink opposing ships if need be!

10. An orchestra at sea?

Speaking of super yachts that have impressive toys and extra features, the Al Said outstrips many thanks to its incredible concert hall! It’s said that up to 50 members of an orchestra could comfortably play in here.

11. Floating artworks!

Many billionaires use super yachts purely to store expensive artworks – meaning that they are effectively galleries of the sea!

12. Scrapping super yachts makes very little.

Believe it or not, you won’t be able to make money from scrap when it comes to super yachts. They tend to lack steel in their build, meaning they don’t hold that much value when trading on after they’ve been used up.

FAQs about Super Yachts

How many super yachts exist.

There are said to be less than 9,000 super yachts in existence - they are a rare and expensive breed, indeed!

How much does it cost to rent a super yacht?

It’s thought that catamarans measuring more than 80 feet in length, and classed as super yachts, cost at least $40,000 per night to hire!

How much fuel do super yachts consume?

Super yachts consume a huge amount of fuel per hour - up to 130 gallons every 60 minutes if you’re constantly running the engine!

Do you know any interesting facts about super yachts? Share them in the comments below!

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• Super Yachts

5 Boating Facts that may surprise you

Boating has been around for approximately 8,000 years, and as you can imagine there are some fascinating boating facts floating around! From the Stone Age dugouts to today’s tight knit boating community, life on the water is full of surprising moments. Check out a few of our favorite fun facts from all those years in between:

1. 14-year-old Laura Dekker was the youngest person to solo sail around the world

2. the english word “quarantine” comes from 17th century boating terminology, 3. ship speeds are measured in knots– literally.

One knot equals one nautical mile per hour. The term ”knots” comes from the 17th century when sailors measured the speed of their ship by using a “common log,” a rope tied with equally spaced knots. The common log would trail behind the boat for a specific amount of time before the sailors would count how many knots had passed. This estimated their speed.

4. Sailing has been in the Olympics since 1900

The Tokyo Olympics are in full swing this year and the summer games wouldn’t be complete without some boating! Sailing is one of the longest running Olympic sports with a debut at the world games in 1900.  Since then,the competition was omitted only once in the 1904 Summer Olympics. More boating facts — Sailing is one of the only sports where men and women compete simultaneously. Great Britain has won the most gold medals in sailing, which reflects its status as the country where the competitive sport developed. Close behind is the USA, while other perennial medal-winners include Norway, Spain, and France.

5. The COVID-19 pandemic created a boom in boat sales

As people spent increasingly more time at home, they began to see the value of buying boats and watercrafts so they could safely enjoy the great outdoors. An estimated $47 billion was spent in the US on buying boats in 2020. With boat sales skyrocketing last year, the trend shows no signs of slowing in 2021. As we welcome more boaters onto the waterways, we offer our services to connect eager boaters with private dock owners to safely rent out their docks while making some extra money.

The world of boating has so much rich history and we are looking forward to the future. Visit us next month for more boating facts. 

We hope to make private docksharing a part of every boater’s life, just like a common log in the 17th century. Let’s make history together! Happy boating!

© 2020-2024 Dockshare | Terms & Policies Made with ♥ in Baltimore

Español NEW Boat facts for kids A boat is a vehicle used to travel on water . It is smaller than a ship and can be lifted out of the water and carried on a ship. Some boats have sails , some are powered by rowing with oars , and some use motors . These boats are usually made of wood . However, some parts are made of metals like steel and aluminium . Expensive boats may have parts from fiberglass or composite materials and some even have helicopter pads. There are some boats that can even go underwater. They are called submarines . Parts and terminology Building materials, image gallery, images for kids. Dugouts are the oldest type of boats found by archaeologists, and boats have served as transportation since the earliest times. Circumstantial evidence, such as the early settlement of Australia over 40,000 years ago, findings in Crete dated 130,000 years ago, and findings in Flores dated to 900,000 years ago, suggest that boats have been used since prehistoric times. The earliest boats are thought to have been logboats, and the oldest boats found by archaeological excavation date from around 7,000–10,000 years ago. The oldest recovered boat in the world is the Pesse canoe , a dugout made from the hollowed tree trunk of a Pinus sylvestris and constructed somewhere between 8200 and 7600 BC. This canoe is exhibited in the Drents Museum in Assen, Netherlands. Other very old dugout boats have also been recovered. Rafts have operated for at least 8,000 years. A 7,000-year-old seagoing reed boat has been found in Kuwait . Boats were used between 4000 and 3000 BC in Sumer , ancient Egypt and in the Indian Ocean . Boats played an important role in the commerce between the Indus Valley Civilization and Mesopotamia . Evidence of varying models of boats has also been discovered at various Indus Valley archaeological sites. Uru craft originate in Beypore, a village in south Calicut , Kerala , in southwestern India . This type of mammoth wooden ship was constructed using teak, without any iron, and had a transport capacity of 400 tonnes. The ancient Arabs and Greeks used such boats as trading vessels. The historians Herodotus , Pliny the Elder and Strabo record the use of boats for commerce, travel, and military purposes. Boats can be categorized into three main types: Unpowered or human-powered boats. Unpowered boats include rafts and floats meant for one-way downstream travel. Human-powered boats include canoes , kayaks , gondolas and boats propelled by poles like a punt . Sailboats , which are propelled solely by means of sails . Motorboats , which are propelled by mechanical means, such as engines. Several key components make up the main structure of most boats. The hull is the main structural component of the boat and provides buoyancy. The gunnel, which make up the sides of the boat, offers protection from water and makes the boat harder to sink. The roughly horizontal, chambered structures spanning the hull of the boat are referred to as the deck. A ship often has several decks, but a boat is unlikely to have more than one, if any. Above the deck are the superstructures. The underside of a deck is the deck head. An enclosed space on a boat is referred to as a cabin. Several structures make up a cabin, including a coach-roof, which is a lightweight structure which spans a raised cabin. The "floor" of a cabin is properly known as the sole, but is more likely to be called the floor (a floor is properly, a structural member which ties a frame to the keelson and keel). The vertical surfaces dividing the internal space are bulkheads. The keel is a lengthwise structural member to which the frames are fixed (sometimes referred to as a "backbone"). The front (or fore end) of a boat is called the bow. Boats of earlier times often featured a figurehead protruding from the bow. The rear (or aft end) of the boat is called the stern. The right side (facing forward) is starboard and the left side is port. Nearly every boat is given a name by the owner, and this is how the boat is referred to in the boating community, and in some cases, in legal or title paperwork. Boat names vary from whimsical to humorous to serious. Until the mid-19th century most boats were made of natural materials, primarily wood, although reed , bark and animal skins were also used. Early boats include the bound-reed style of boat seen in Ancient Egypt, the birch bark canoe , the animal hide-covered kayak and coracle and the dugout canoe made from a single log. Bill Streever describes a boat made by the native Inupiat people in Barrow, Alaska as "a skin boat, an umiaq , built from the stitched hides of bearded seals and used to hunt bowhead whales in the open-water leads during spring...". By the mid-19th century, many boats had been built with iron or steel frames but still planked in wood. In 1855 ferro-cement boat construction was patented by the French, who coined the name "ferciment". This is a system by which a steel or iron wire framework is built in the shape of a boat's hull and covered (trowelled) over with cement. Reinforced with bulkheads and other internal structure, it is strong but heavy, easily repaired, and, if sealed properly, will not leak or corrode. These materials and methods were copied all over the world and have faded in and out of popularity to the present time. As the forests of Britain and Europe continued to be over-harvested to supply the keels of larger wooden boats, and the Bessemer process ( patented in 1855) cheapened the cost of steel, steel ships and boats began to be more common. By the 1930s boats built entirely of steel from frames to plating were seen replacing wooden boats in many industrial uses, also for fishing fleets. Private recreational boats of steel are however uncommon. In 1895 WH Mullins produced steel boats of galvanized iron and by 1930 became the world's largest producer of pleasure boats. Mullins also offered boats in aluminum from 1895 through 1899 and once again in the 1920's In the mid-20th century aluminium gained popularity. Though much more expensive than steel, there are now aluminum alloys available that do not corrode in salt water, and an aluminium boat built to similar load carrying standards is lighter in weight than the steel equivalent . Around the mid-1960s, boats made of glass-reinforced plastic , more commonly known as fibreglass , became popular, especially for recreational boats. The United States Coast Guard refers to such boats as 'FRP' (for fibre-reinforced plastic) boats. Fibreglass boats are strong, and do not rust (iron oxide), corrode, or rot. They are, however susceptible to structural degradation from sunlight and extremes in temperature over their lifespan. Fibreglass provides structural strength, especially when long woven strands are laid, sometimes from bow to stern, and then soaked in epoxy or polyester resin to form the hull. Whether hand laid or built in a mould, Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) boats usually have an outer coating of gelcoat, which is a thin solid colored layer of polyester resin that adds no structural strength, but does create a smooth surface which can be buffed to a high shine and also acts as a protective layer against sunlight. FRP structures can be made stiffer with sandwich panels, where the FRP encloses a lightweight core such as balsa or foam. Cored FRP is most often found in decking, which helps keep down weight that will be carried above the waterline. The addition of wood makes the cored structure of the boat susceptible to rotting, which puts a greater emphasis on not allowing damaged sandwich structures to go unrepaired. Plastic based foam cores are less vulnerable. The phrase 'advanced composites' in FRP construction may indicate the addition of carbon fibre, Kevlar or other similar materials, but it may also indicate methods designed to introduce less expensive and, by at least one yacht surveyor's eyewitness accounts, less structurally sound materials. Cold moulding is similar to FRP in as much as it involves the use of epoxy or polyester resins, but the structural component is wood instead of fibreglass. In cold moulding very thin strips of wood are layered over a form or mould. Each layer is coated with resin and another directionally alternating layer is laid on top. In some processes the subsequent layers are stapled or otherwise mechanically fastened to the previous layers, but in other processes the layers are weighted or even vacuum bagged to hold them together while the resin sets. Layers are built up until the required hull thickness is achieved. Boats or watercraft have also been made of materials such as foam or plastic, but most homebuilts today are built of plywood and either painted or covered with a layer of fibreglass and resin. The most common means of boat propulsion are as follows: Inboard/outboard (stern drive) Paddle wheel Water jet ( personal water craft , jetboat) Air fans ( hovercraft , air boat) Human power ( rowing , paddling, setting pole etc.) Wind power ( sailing ) An early, uncommon means of boat propulsion is represented by the water caterpillar. This boat was moved by a series of paddles on chains along the bottom to propel it over the water and preceded the development of tracked vehicles. A floating boat displaces its weight in water. The material of the boat hull may be denser than water, but if this is the case then it forms only the outer layer. If the boat floats, the mass of the boat (plus contents) as a whole divided by the volume below the waterline is equal to the density of water (1 kg/l). If weight is added to the boat, the volume below the waterline will increase to keep the weight balance equal, and so the boat sinks a little to compensate. Plastic molded boat. Anchored boats in Portovenere, Italy wooden boat in Morocco A boat in an Egyptian tomb, painted around 1450 BC These dugout boats were photographed in the courtyard of the Old Military Hospital in the Historic Center of Quito A boat on the Ganges River Babur crossing river Son; folio from an illustrated manuscript of ‘Babur-Namah’, Mughal, Akbar Period, AD 1598 A tugboat is used for towing or pushing another, larger vessel Aluminum flat-bottomed boats ashore for storage A ship's derelict lifeboat, built of steel, rusting away in the wetlands of Folly Island , South Carolina , United States wooden boat In a small Moroccan village A wooden boat operating near shore Ming Dynasty Chinese painting of the Wanli Emperor enjoying a boat ride on a river with an entourage of guards and courtiers A boat shaped like a sauce bottle that was sailed across the Atlantic Ocean by Tom McClean Boats rental, Germany A recreational motorboat with an outboard motor Silver model of a boat, tomb PG 789, Royal Cemetery of Ur, 2600-2500 BCE. This page was last modified on 8 June 2024, at 07:25. Suggest an edit . 249 IMAGES All You Need to Know about Sailing Yacht “A”: Infographic World Largest Super Yacht interesting facts ⋆ Mega Yacht Guy FACTS ABOUT YACHTS Facts about Yachts and Yachting!! 12 Sensational Facts about Super Yachts What Do Yachts Have? 27 Interesting Facts To Know VIDEO actual facts 😅😅😅 #miami #luxuryyacht #boat #yachtworld #luxuryboat #boatlife #yachtlife ⛵️ "Facts of Yacht" Protect The Yacht, Keep It!#1Protecting Your Brand New Yacht: #facts #viral #video #viralshorts Amazing facts about azzam the largest yacht in the world TOP 10 MOST EXPENSIVE YACHTS In The WORLD!!! COMMENTS 10 interesting fun facts about boats that you did not know Here are some fun facts about boats that you might not have heard about. Good luck and back luck omens are different on a boat than on dry land. For instance, whistling on a boat is expected to bring upon strong winds and is therefore considered bad luck. Bananas on a boat are also seen as bad luck especially on fishing boats. Fun Facts About Yachts: Surprising Trivia About These Iconic Vessels Yachts are a symbol of luxury and extravagance, often associated with the rich and famous. But beyond their opulent appearance and high price tags, yachts have a rich history and many interesting facts that may surprise you. In this blog post, we'll explore some fun facts about yachts that you may not have known before. Yachts are a symbol of luxury and extravagance, often associated with the ... 10 Fascinating Fun Facts About Boats You Didn't Know Unveiling the Fascinating World of Boats: Fun Facts and Trivia; Most popular facts. The oldest recovered boat, known as the Pesse canoe, dates back to 8040 BCE and was found in the Netherlands. The Titanic, which sank in 1912, was equipped with a swimming pool, gym, and Turkish bath for its first-class passengers. 25 Interesting Facts About Sailing You Probably Don't Know No, it's actually the other way around. 1. Sailboats are slow (but efficient) The average sailboat cruises at about 4-6 knots, (4-7 mph or 7-11 km/h) and has a top speed of 9 knots (10 mph or 17 km/h). It's just not that fast. That isn't to say there aren't any quick boats: they can be incredibly fast. Fun Facts About Boats: 15 Boat Trivia Tidbits Every Captain Should Know Fun Facts About Boat Names. Boat names can often reflect a sense of humor or personal connection to the owner. Throughout history, boat naming traditions have evolved, with some famous boat names becoming legendary. From the iconic 'Titanic' to the adventurous 'Endeavour,' these names carry stories and evoke a strong emotional bond with ... 7 Interesting Facts About Yachts You Didn't Know About In this blog post, we will share seven interesting facts about yachts that you may not have known before. Keep reading to learn more! 1. Yachts can come in all shapes and sizes. No two yachts are alike! Yachts can range in size from just a few feet long to over 400 feet long. And, they come in all sorts of shapes and designs. Fun Boat Facts for Kids Boat Facts for Kids. Check out our fun boat facts for kids and enjoy learning about various ships and watercraft. Find information on sailboats, luxury yachts, the America's Cup, nautical terms and much more. Read on for a wide range of interesting trivia and information related to boats. 10 Fascinating Facts About Boats You Need to Know Exploring the Intriguing World of Boats: Interesting Facts You Need to Know; Most popular facts. The oldest boat ever discovered is a dugout canoe found in the Netherlands, estimated to be around 10,000 years old. The largest cruise ship in the world, Symphony of the Seas, spans over 1,188 feet in length. 10 superyacht facts you probably didn't know about Whether you are superyacht crew, a member of the superyacht industry or just a superyacht fan, we bet these are some of the facts about the industry you didn't know about! 1. There are currently 5,396 superyachts over 30m / 98ft in length operating in the world. According to the SuperYacht Times 'The State of Yachting 2022' report, as of ... 8 most interesting facts about sailing and boats 8. "Quarantine" and its origins. Did you know that the word "Quarantine" is strongly related to boating? The word itself comes from Latin and it meaning is "forty days". This was the number of a days a ship had to wait to dock because of the plague. So, these are just s couple of the fun things we did talk about that during our trip. 17 Fascinating Facts About Sailing Fascinating The largest sailing yacht in the world is over 150 meters long. Known as "Sailing Yacht A," this massive vessel is owned by Russian billionaire Andrey Melnichenko. It features a futuristic design and state-of-the-art technology, making it a true marvel of engineering. Fascinating Sailing has its own unique terminology. 11 facts about ships and boats that might surprise you In fact, the only person allowed to whistle on a ship is the cook as it means he is not eating the food. Bananas might turn a boat's luck ill, too. Especially when it comes to fishing boats as it is believed that if bananas are aboard, the fish won't bite and there might be even mechanical mishaps. As soon as the hidden bananas are ... 90 facts about sailing 8.Sailing is considered an extreme sport. In fact, as long as it is just sport, and not a world-class sport, the chances to become disabled, dye or go missing are quite small. Modern yachts, if a skipper is competent and the yacht is fixed, are quite safe. Everything is the same as with cars. Fun and Quirky Facts About Yachts You Probably Didn't Know Here's some facts you may not know: Yachts can look like animals or objects. For example, the "Gone with the Wind" yacht looks like a seagull, while the "Iguana" yacht looks like a lizard. They can also have high-tech features such as underwater lights that change color, or motion sensors. Yachts often have hidden compartments and ... Top 101 Boating Facts and Factoids Red sky at night, sailors delight. Red sky at morning, sailors take warning. When a halo rings the moon or sun, rain will come upon the run. Mackerel skies and mares' tails, make tall ships carry low sails. (Cirrus clouds, which resemble mackerels and the wisps of a horse's tail, indicate approaching storms.) Boat Facts for Kids (All You Need to Know!) Wooden Boats: these boats were made from the acacia tree and also from cedar they imported from Lebanon. The Egyptians then added a sail to make traveling faster and easier. Cargo Ships: As time went on, they learned how to construct bigger boats. These were so sturdy they could hold 500 tons of rocks! Yacht Facts for Kids Kids Encyclopedia Facts. A yacht is a type of boat which is mainly used for recreation. It usually has a cabin, so it does not need to return to the harbour overnight. Originally, yachts were sailing-boats, but now there are also motor yachts. The name comes from the Dutch word jachtschip, which originally meant hunting-boat or fast boat. 18 Facts About Yacht Racing Yacht racing is a thrilling and exhilarating sport that combines skill, strategy, and a deep love for the open waters. Whether you're a professional sailor or a. Discover 18 fascinating facts about yacht racing, from its history and famous competitions to the adrenaline-fueled challenges faced by sailors on the open seas. ... 30 Interesting Facts About Ships and Boats 16-20 Facts About Ships and Boats. 16. In 2004, a party yacht tipped over when the passengers all moved to one side of the boat as it passed a nude beach in Texas. - Source. 17. In 2005, a tour bus driver for the Dave Matthews Band released the bus' septic tank over a grate above the Chicago River. 151 Facts About The History Of Boats That Will Amaze You Boating is one of the most fun-filled and enjoyable activities. Not just boating, but the facts about boats can be equally interesting. The Netherlanders are thought to have built the first boats in the world. The Pesse canoe, a dugout made from the trunk of the scotch pine tree, is the oldest found boat in the world. Interesting Facts about Boats Interestingly, the world's longest yacht is that it measures about 179.7 meters in length. This larger-than-life yacht is owned by the Royal Family of Abu Dhabi and was built in 2013. This super-luxury yacht is called Azzam and is adorned with exquisite French interior design. The Azzam is worth about $600 million. 11. 12 Sensational Facts about Super Yachts It takes something special to take a simple boat to super yacht status, and these opulent floating dreams are one of the ultimate displays of wealth and luxury. Here are some fun facts about super yachts that might just fascinate you. 1. What's the biggest super yacht in the world? The world's 'most super' yacht is the Azzam. It's the ... 5 Boating Facts That May Surprise You 1. 14-year-old Laura Dekker was the youngest person to solo sail around the world. Dekker announced her plan to circumnavigate the globe in 2009 and started her journey in 2010 when she was just fourteen years old. Her entire trip took 518 days and ended when she was sixteen years old in 2012. Her forty-foot sailboat was named "Guppy" and ... Boat Facts for Kids Boat facts for kids. A boat with a sail on the Mississippi River. A boat is a vehicle used to travel on water. It is smaller than a ship and can be lifted out of the water and carried on a ship. Some boats have sails, some are powered by rowing with oars, and some use motors. These boats are usually made of wood. Fun facts and lesser-known secrets about Paris Fun facts and lesser-known secrets about Paris. Posted: 20 June 2024 | Last updated: 20 June 2024. When you think of Paris, you probably think of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine or the Mona Lisa. catamaran gulet motorboat riverboat sailboat trimaran yacht