BEYOND THE HORIZON

1 December 2023

INLAND WATERWAYS

            Yet again, Congress, in the most recent budgetary Kick-the-can-down-the-road, set up a future battle on defining exactly what is the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) that neither party nor the Supreme Court has been able to explain in years. Nebulous words such as “by” or “near” hold a variety of meanings to sundry people. Words have connotations and denotations that seem to be beyond the great minds under the Great Dome.

            The Congressional fractures became apparent when a House Committee, on a bipartisan plan, agreed on a “minibus” bill for funding an Energy and Water Development bill; however, when the HR 4394 hit the floor, the GOP right-wing quietly added amendments to lower the funding for the Army Corps of Engineering and eliminate the concept of Waters of the United States, and thus forcing the Democrats to oppose the bill and the President to announce a potential veto. So much for across-the-aisle agreements.

            The Mississippi River set a record for being at its lowest in recorded history. Climate change or natural occurrence? Memphis recorded the lowest levels in its history that indicated severe economic problems up and downstream including reduced loads, backup of tows because of the limited main channels, lengthened transit time, and numerous groundings. Although the water levels were extremely low, the pollution rate remained the same; therefore, toxic chemicals per gallon reached highs. Dredge crews have worked 24-hour days trying to keep a minimal channel in both the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. An additional problem is that the docks and wharfs at ports tend to be much shallower than the mainstream. 

            River levels are recorded three ways and one often sees incredibly different readings at different but close locations. The first and foremost means of measurement is simply hanging a weight from a fixed object, such as a bridge, and measuring the distance to the river surface. A normal average is calculated and reported readings are issued daily or periodically. When a negative depth is noted, the meaning is that the river’s level is below normal. Memphis, TN was at -11 feet this summer. 

            A second, more technological, measurement is the radar gauge that shoots a beam across the surface, and computer algorithms offer the depth. The third indicator is the pressure transducer which has a tube beneath the riverbed in the deepest channel of the stream. The pressure required to release a bubble is calculated to show the thickness of the water because the density of the water is known.

BOATS

            My wife has opined that she is willing to move to a live-aboard, and she selected a boat that might fit her requisite demands. The Fountaine Paiot 80, at a mere 80-ft in length and 35-ft in width, has more square footage than our house, and proffers enough room for our grandchildren to visit, and for us to motor modestly from one anchorage to another without attracting attention.  With huge saloon windows and wings on both sides of the aft cockpit, vision is the sine que non of vessels. 7 double cabins provide ample accommodations for the crew, and the captain’s cabin is larger than my current living room.

            I wonder how you tow this boat?

            After some modest fiscal analysis of personal needs and purchasing power, I regret to mention that the current boat-of-choice remains GENNY SEA, a West Wight Potter 15, currently bundled for the winter at Lake McBride, a small enlargement of the Iowa River near Iowa City.

GRAY FLEET

            The Navy League of the United States (NLUS) is pushing for an expanded fleet, that, unto itself, is consistent over decades; however, now NLUS and other Navy supporters are deeply concerned about the explosive growth of China’s influence on trade and economics. Luke Lorenz, NLUS Washington director of Congressional Affairs, posits that America will be challenged at sea and will require more tankers, cargo vessels, and supply ships to support our Navy, Marines, and the Army. 

            He , noting the worldwide dependence on China’s shipbuilding industry, suggests that we need greater building and repair facilities within the US, an option to allow currently foreign-flagged but U.S.-owned tankers to re-flag under the Stars and Stripes,  and the need to increase our merchant fleet.

MERCHANT FLEET

China’s push to broaden its hegemony reached Western Europe recently as it purchased 24.5% of the Port of Hamburg in Germany. This acquisition is the 96^th Chinese port procurement around the world as an element of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).  Only Italy of the G-7 nations is a signatory of the BRI, an action that the current government rues. The ongoing question of whether the world can handle both the United States and China as superpowers remains. The U.S. Naval Institute’s PROCEEDINGS monthly discusses an inevitable war between China and America.

            TIDEWATER, a workboat builder that went bankrupt in 2017, is having a banner year, according to MARITIME EXECUTIVE, that posits the company’s CEO and Board President prognosticated the future needs of shipbuilding, off-shore development, and financial honeypots and quickly purchased GULFMARK OFFSHORE,  SWIRE PACIFIC, and SOLSTAD OFFSHORE in what many call a veritable heist. The stock of TIDEWATER rose from a paltry $11 to over $70 in two years. Where was my stock broker on that resurrection? 

            Most people pay little attention to the Merchant Fleet except when it is blamed for supply chain problems. The fleet’s crew suffers from lengthy months sailing around the globe, long hours on duty, and limited shore time for R and R. With no surprise, crew shortage is constant, and the number of qualified officers remains inadequate. With these burgeoning issues, awareness of the sundry academies has amplified. The Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY, remains readily recognizable; however, several other academies exist under the radar of many students and teachers.

            While the MMA is under the governmental aegis of the US Maritime Administration (MARAD) under the Department of Transportation, six other state universities operate schools as an element of the State Maritime Academies (SMA) that offer four-year undergraduate degrees necessary for licensing as a mariner and can be trained as military officers or commercial Merchant Marine Officers.

            The Great Lakes Maritime Academy, Traverse City, MI, is a typical SMA. Only 60 cadets annually enter for the Deck Program or the Engine Program. The former take courses in cargo, navigation, stability, loading, ballast, ship handling, and seamanship. The Engine cadets learn about electrical, steam, diesel engines, and other onboard systems, as well as, operating, maintaining, and repairing them. Upon graduation, they are qualified for US Coast Guard licensing as Third Mate Great Lakes and Ocean Unlimited Tonnage. GLMA is the only SMA on fresh water.

            Most of the GLMA students are atypically older. Only about 20% come straight from high school. Needless to say, students need a firm comprehension of science and math, a willingness to follow orders precisely, and a fondness for the lakes and oceans. Tuition and fees include seabag materials, uniforms, licensing fees, and cruise costs in the summer. It runs about $32,000 per year.

Readers of seafaring novels are often assaulted by the classification of sailing ships. The intricate details and diverse terminology can sometimes be overwhelming for those who are not familiar with nautical jargon. Understanding the different types of sailing ships can greatly enhance the reading experience and allow readers to fully immerse themselves in the maritime world depicted in these captivating stories.

One important categorization of sailing ships is based on the rigging system they employ. The rigging refers to the arrangement of masts, spars, and sails that enable the ship to harness the power of the wind. Various types of rigging have evolved over centuries of seafaring traditions, each with its unique characteristics and advantages.

Let’s delve into some of the most common rigging systems you may encounter in seafaring novels:

1. Square Rigged: This rigging system is characterized by square-shaped sails that are set perpendicular to the keel of the ship. These sails capture the wind when it blows from behind the ship, allowing it to move efficiently with the wind astern. The square rig is typically found on large, ocean-going vessels like the famous clipper ships, which were renowned for their speed and ability to traverse long distances.
2. Fore-and-Aft Rigged: Unlike square rigging, the fore-and-aft rig employs triangular-shaped sails that are set parallel to the keel, allowing the ship to sail closer to the wind. This rigging system is commonly used on smaller vessels, such as fishing boats, yachts, and coastal schooners. Fore-and-aft rigging provides maneuverability and versatility, making it suitable for navigating in shallow waters and changing wind conditions.
3. Lateen Rigged: The lateen rig is recognizable by its triangular-shaped sail set on a long yard that is inclined at an angle to the mast. This rigging system originated in the Mediterranean and was extensively used by Arab and Mediterranean sailors. The lateen rig allows ships to sail efficiently on a beam reach or even close-hauled, making it ideal for maneuvering in restricted waters or regions with variable winds.
4. Gaff Rigged: In this rigging system, a gaff—a spar located on the top of the mast—is used to support the upper edge of a four-sided sail. Gaff-rigged vessels are often characterized by their distinctive triangular-shaped mainsail and a smaller headsail. This rigging configuration provides balance and control, making it favored for traditional working boats and smaller coastal craft.
5. Junk Rigged: Originating in ancient China, the junk rig is unique in its use of bamboo battens and flexible joints. It features a series of sails mounted on multiple masts, providing a high degree of maneuverability, especially downwind. Junk-rigged ships have been utilized for centuries in Asian waters, and their distinct appearance and sailing characteristics have captured the interest of seafaring enthusiasts.

By familiarizing yourself with these different rigging systems, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies and historical accuracy present in seafaring novels. Whether it’s the majesty of a square-rigged ship conquering the high seas or the agility of a fore-and-aft rigged vessel skimming across coastal waters, understanding the classification of sailing ships enriches the reading experience and allows you to visualize the stunning maritime world vividly described by authors. Happy exploring, and may your seafaring adventures be filled with excitement and wonder!

            I, for one, thought the Jackass Brig was where US Navy sailors, who made stupid decisions, were housed. Worse, I believed a Navel Cutter was a sharp knife wielded by an angry cook. I refuse to apologize for the “dad jokes”.