About our R2AK 2016 Attempt
Race to Alaska is 1200 km boat race from Port Townsend, Washington to Ketchikan, Alaska. It is comprised of two stages – Port Townsend to Victoria, BC, and then Victoria to Ketchikan. The rules of the race are very simple; no motorized propulsion, anything else goes. Anything from a one-man kayak, to a 60 person rowing/sailing Viking ship can be used. First to reach the finish line gets $10,000.
RowCruiser Build Workshop Sept. 19-25
For those interested in attending our RowCruiser Workshop on Sept. 19-25, 2015, you can find more information on www.rowcruiser.com. It will be held at the Northwest Maritime Center in Port Townsend - a fun place for the nautically inclined.
Everything You Need to Know About Installing a Sliding Seat Rowing System
Sliding seat rowing is an efficient way to propel a boat, while providing a fantastic full-body workout. To enjoy the advantages of sliding seat rowing, however, it is important to install a properly-designed rowing system in your boat. For those new to the sport it can be a confusing process with many options available.
About our Sailing RowCruiser
Part of the motivation behind our efforts to design the sailing version of the RowCruiser came from the Race to Alaska (R2AK). As competitors in the race, we wanted something that was fast by oar and sail and could be raced non-stop for more than one week by two people.
Why Build?
Building your own boat from a kit or plans is a satisfying and enjoyable process. You will have a clear understanding of how the boat is constructed, and easily be able to make repairs if needed.
Developing the RowCruiser Sailing Rig
Interest in our RowCruiser is quickly growing, and there are now a few dozen currently being built. We also completed our first RowCruiser build class last week, and it was a huge success. Our next RowCruiser build class, scheduled for next September in Port Townsend, is already two thirds full, so if you'r interested in attending be sure to sign up soon (www.rowcruiser.com).
R2AK - Race to Alaska: Who will win?
With the upcoming R2AK challenge, there has been a lot of speculation as to what types of boats will be entered, and potential speeds and finishing times. I’ve spent a bit of time contemplating these questions myself, and will share my thoughts on this blog. The race is open to all types of motor-less boats from SUPs to higher performance multi-hull boats. While all boats are welcome, it is obvious that the organizers have an emphasis on smaller and/or home built craft.
Rowing and Your Health
Currently the two main types of human-powered recreational craft in usage are canoes and sea kayaks. There is no reason, however, why rowing can’t be used for touring, and the sport offers several distinct advantages.
Racing to Alaska
Well, I've officially committed to the big race that everyone is talking about. The NW Maritime Center in Port Townsend is launching its inaugural race from Port Townsend to Ketchikan, Alaska. The rules are simple – no motor allowed, and there are two waypoints boaters have to pass through on their way north – Seymour Narrows and Bella Bella. And the winner gets $10,000.
Everything You Need to Know About Sculling Oars
There’s plenty of information outlining the benefits of a sliding seat rowing system for recreation, but there is very little information about the oars required. For newcomers to the sport, it can be confusing figuring out what is needed. We decided it was time to write a comprehensive page outlining everything you need to know about sculling oars.
Wooden Hollow Shaft Sculling Oar Plans Completed!
There have been a few delays, but we’ve finally completed our comprehensive manual and plans for building exquisite hollow-shaft sculling oars. The plans are full-sized, laser printed on a ten foot long sheet, and the illustrated manual is very comprehensive.
Wall Street Journal Gives "Olive Odyssey" Thumbs Up!
It was a little intimidating for us when we heard the Wall Street Journal was running a two-third page review in the weekend edition on Julie’s latest book, Olive Odyssey.
