Current News
When a Butterfly Flaps its Wings in China
In the 1990 film Havana, Robert Redford’s character says, “A butterfly can flutter its wings over a flower in China and cause a hurricane in the Caribbean . . .” While the sentiment is somewhat mythological, it’s not irrelevant to the upcoming 2019 hurricane season, or the arrival of tropical storm/hurricane Barry on the Louisiana coast. More »
The Plastic Plague, Part 1
In era of deeply polarized opinions over basic environmental truths, there’s one area of overwhelming consensus: People are unanimously appalled by plastic in the ocean. “In the last year, there’s been unprecedented media coverage and an increase in awareness in the challenge associated with plastic,” said a spokesperson for a major Bay Area recycling facility. More »
Stars + Stripes Still in It
Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron required Stars + Stripes Team USA and DutchSail to confirm their ongoing commitment to the 36th America’s Cup by July 1. The first announcement came from Long Beach Yacht Club on June 29.
Fourth of July Safety Zones
The US Coast Guard reminds mariners to stay clear of fireworks-display barges and shoreside facilities during the upcoming holiday. Temporary safety zones have been established surrounding fireworks displays.
Fishing Nets from the Pacific Gyre
The North Pacific Subtropical Convergence Zone, often referred to as the Pacific Gyre, consists of a sea of floating plastic material — various bottles, plastic chairs, packaging straps, buckets, rope and fishing nets. Several efforts have been undertaken recently to try and rid the Pacific Ocean of this debris.
Tickets for the 2020 Olympics
With just over a year left until the Opening Ceremony in Tokyo, tickets will go on sale July 9 for the 2020 Olympics.
Nominations Open for Sailors of the Year
World Sailing invites you to nominate individuals, teams and organizations for the 2019 World Sailing Awards. The awards celebrate outstanding achievement and exceptional contributions to the sport of sailing.
Coast Guard Cracks Down on Illegal Charterers
The Coast Guard said there is a “growing concern” about illegal charter boats in the Bay Area, and has recently boarded over 50 boats to verify captain’s licenses.
“Boaters should expect the Coast Guard to be actively engaging with operators to promote safe and legal passenger vessel operations as all boats carrying passengers for hire are required to hold a Coast Guard license and meet minimum safety standards,” a Coast Guard press release said. More »
TISC Receives 11th Hour Racing Grant
Treasure Island Sailing Center, which has worked with 11th Hour Racing since 2013, looks forward to expanding their STEM program with the funding.
Stanford Coach Gets One Day
Former Stanford head sailing coach John Vandemoer will not serve a prison sentence for his part in the college admissions scandal. Vandemoer was the first person to be sentenced as a result of the federal sting called Operation Varsity Blues.
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