When transiting the North Coast, it’s always wise to stay well offshore, especially when passing outside Half Moon Bay, where a reef contributes to the occasional formation of enormous waves. Today is one of those days, and today only top-ranked big-wave surfers from around the world are competing in the Titans of Mavericks surf competition. More »

Undeniably, the Bay Area has produced a boatload of world-class racing sailors, but one of the local marine community’s greatest treasures is the wealth of colorful waterfront characters who call these waters home. More »

This file shot of Jeff Hartjoy posing beside a phallic Mexican cactus reminds us of what a great sense of humor he has — no doubt an invaluable personality trait during his round-the-world endurance contest. More »

These young scholars from hillside communities took their first boat ride ever during SailFest. latitude/Andy
©Latitude 38 Media, LLC One of the most admirable aspects of the Mexico cruising community is that its members often combine fun-filled sailing events with heartfelt philanthropy. More »

As every Pacific Northwest sailor undoubtedly knows, the massive Seattle Boat Show begins this week and runs through February 6 at CenturyLink Field (plus in-the-water boat viewing at South Lake Union). More »

If you’re always looking for ‘silver linings’, you’ll be interested in recent discoveries made by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) scientists thanks to diminishing sea ice in the Arctic.  Although artfully drawn, this artist’s rendering of the abandonment scene can’t begin to convey the grim prospect of surviving outside in such conditions, even for a brief period. More »

Canadian cruisers George Juri and Grit Chiu had been battling strong winds and high seas for days when they chanced upon Thai barge worker Thar Hlaing, who’d been alone in the water for four days.  More »

In November, the introduction of preliminary plans to dramatically redevelop the Alameda Marina drew widespread concern and condemnation by many within the Oakland-Alameda sailing community. Early this month, developer Bill Poland, who has been part owner of the long-established, 43-acre waterfront property since 2006, attempted to clarify his position via op-ed pieces in two East Bay newspapers: "Mixed-use redevelopment of Alameda Marina… has been a public policy objective of city and regional planning agencies for years," he wrote. More »

About a year ago, when ex-America’s Cup employee Tom Ehman introduced his pipe dream of staging a 12-Meter racing renaissance on San Francisco Bay — in reaction to the astronomical costs of foiling-era A-Cup campaigning — the idea drew a mixed reaction. More »

This well-worn sign is often in place at the Santa Cruz Harbor launch ramp, but this week its warning is particularly serious, as the harbor mouth is effectively closed to all traffic. More »