Yacht clubs in the New York area are organising a huge regatta to honour the victims of September 11. Manhattan Yacht Club commodore Michael Fortenbaugh says it will be one of the greatest gatherings of sailboats in any United States harbour. Six other yacht clubs have joined the organising committee
and the marine business sector has pledged support. The tentative name for the regatta on September 14 is Operation Sail America.
Rescue money
The Australian Waterways Authority has pledged $A622,000 ($771,000) in support of New South Wales volunteer marine rescue organisations. Since 1998 the NSW State Government has provided $A1.3 million ($1.6 million) for the state volunteer rescue groups that each year assist more than 15,000 people at risk.
Cup business
The America's Cup challengers mean big business for Glen Eden RIB builder Aquapro International. Oracle Racing has just taken delivery of its 14m towboat, the maximum length allowed on the Louis Vuitton challenger course. Powered by twin 230hp Volvo Penta diesels, it has a top speed of 33 knots. The Prada syndicate has four 10m Aquapros, Stars and Stripes has four 8m versions and Oracle has ordered four more up to 14m long.
Water watch
Organised activity on the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours moves into holiday mode from this weekend. That gives harbourmaster James McPetrie and his team at the Auckland Regional Council Maritime Operations Centre the opportunity for a series of timely reminders over the next three weeks for those planning holidays afloat or day trips in the Gulf.
First up, it's weather. If in doubt, don't go out. That's because 53 per cent of fatal boating accidents occur in bad weather. Weather conditions can make the difference between an enjoyable boating experience and a tragic one, so always check the marine weather forecast. National Radio and local stations give regular marine forecasts and MetPhone Coastal on 0900 999 99 has special recreational forecasts for the Auckland area. Boaters can also go direct to Met Service
* Clubs and organisations planning activities on the Waitemata or Manukau should register with the ARC Enviroline on 0800 80 60 40
