Lake Washington CruiZe

One of Beth colleagues, Anne and her husband John, invited us out for a winter cruise on Lake Washington to follow the Christmas ships as they "charoled" on Montlake and Lake Union. It was sort of "perfect" since we bailed out on the ships when they were passing Juanita Beach just on Friday night (after an hour Beth was too cold to stand out and wait for them). Many times I've planned to put the boat in the water just for this (wintry) event, but sort of glad I haven't.

John has a huge Viking 40 SportFisher, and even onboard this one, with hot chocolate, food, and dessert, some were still a tad chilly.

Apart from the amazing charoling from the "Peace" ship (Argosy Cruises), the decorated vessels are truly awesome. Taking photos in the dark night, from a moving vessel, of other moving vessels, is no child's play so you just have to imagine what it really looked like. Beautiful is probably the best word in any case! My guess is that there were some 100+ boats/yachts/ships/kayaks (yes, even kayaks) out on this white and wintry evening. An evening with the lake flat like a mirror!


This one followed us in from Lake Washington, other decortated ships behind.


View of Montlake with the amrada in the background.


Two frozen babes onboard Viking...


Maybe the BEST Christmas sign I ever seen: "NO L"! - Awesome!

Ford Zucks

I've never liked Ford, maybe with the exception of the pretty "sturdy" ones we could find in Europe back in the late 70ies (Granada, Orion, etc) - before they all rusted away...

Once on U.S. soil, I've kept the Fords at bay. Hundred of times I've rented from Hertz (then owned by Ford) for the sole reason they also provided Toyotas, Mazdas, Subarus, Volvos, and in rare cases Hondas. When renting a car, you really do not have to worry about the quality of the vehicle, but you do have to worry about driving it. Most Fords were more like "riding", while all the other cars allowed themselves to be "driven".

One trip from Lynchburg, VA, down to RTP was the nail in the coffin for Fords in my life. A brand new Taurus (or maybe it was a Taurus under the Mercury moniker, the Sable) was to be driven down the parkway down to the RTP airport. Never has a drive been so scary since not even this BRAND new car could provide illumination of the road, less any other form of "control" normally associated with "driving" a car.

So, when I stumbled over this story on Consumerist.com today, it sort of just reminded me how bad Fords are in my mind, and how crooked many car dealerships are (not only Fords, but it does not help if the dealership has to make up for poor product design). I've had Nissans, Audis, Toyotas, Hondas, even Saabs, and not one can even come close to what this poor fellow experiences with his Ford truck. On the contrary, these "import" vehicles run perfectly fine even when they pass the 100K mile marker. We should ask that from any car these days!

Some people are MooronZ - at moorings

Kirkland has a great little marina downtown. It is always packed in the summer, many times by moorons with more money than brains, and their boats sort of show it. But, with big boats come babes, and with babes also boobs. So, I'd guess it is not all bad...

New rules were implemented this year, so in the off-season, you can actually moor your boat there for longer periods than the usual "no more than 5 days in any 7 day period". Since moorage in Lake Washington is both expensive and hard to come by, people tend to jump at "deals", dropping of the boats that they maybe never should have bought otherwise.

The drawback with the marina is that is exposed, EXPOSED! Westerly or southwesterly winds have free range across the lake. The docks are also of a bit weird design with cleats in not the smartest positions, and some pilings are "flexible". Hence, this is not the best place for when the winds kick up.

Forecast calls for stronger winds today with at least a storm arriving both Thursday and Friday. So wind is expected.
Dad and I took the dog for a walk this afternoon. We neded up at the marina. What I saw was sort of appauling:
A couple of perfectly nice boats, tied up so poorly that the boats are likely not going to make it in the little wind we have this afternoon. One boat was already cracked open, and with one stern cleat precariously positioned, I'd say that this boat will be grounded in the next few hours. Too bad, because this was a neat 22' cuddy cabin just a few hours ago, and it would have been fine with the bow into the wind tied up in the empty spot next door... Not even with a need for any crappy fender.
The other boat was a 42', a nice one, but tied up by someone that really has no idea of the forces wind and wave can exert on a hull and the dock. Apart from already having pnctured a few fenders, it was also starting pulling the dock apart.
Yet another small bow-runner was hitting the dock from UNDENEATH at every wave. What a beating, and it has not even started blowing yet...

The best moored boat today, was a small 18" that was tied up in all four corners and with enough slack in the lines so it could move freely, w/o tugging at the cleats and eventually pulling them out of the deck.

So, at moorings, people are moorons!

Another great example of Customer Zervice!

About two weeks ago, I dented my propeller badly while manouvering very gently down in the bay. BIG BUMMER!

Before heading up to the wedding in Winthrop, I sent an e-mail to the PropShop up in Mukilteo (where I incidentally bought my now broken propeller just two years ago) to inquire as to weather they had any rebuilds, used ones, or just a new propeller of the right size. Just wasn't that eager to shell out $$$ for a propeller - again!

Rick Sandstrom e-mailed me back a few days later, telling me that they had my size, on the shelf, ready for pick up, but no used ones in that size.

Given that I had some time today, I packed the dog in the car and moosied us all the way up to Mukilteo. Ended up in the Friday rush hour but still made it there in about 30 minutes. Could have been much worse...

First good news is that Rick determined he could easily repair my damaged propeller.
Second good news was that the propeller I needed was waiting for me, just to be picked up.

Before doing that, I asked him if I should go up in pitch (from my current 14x19 RH to a 14x21 RH) for my new propeller. I could then have one with a little bit more of torque (14x19), and one that would allow for a little bit better fuel economy and also higher speed (14x21). Of course he did not have that one in, so we decided to order one from Volvo. While filling out the papers, his colleague Rod emerges from the shop with an "almost" new propller with the exact dimensions we were looking for.

So, for less than the price of a brand new propeller, I am getting my old one (14x19) repaired, and an "almost" new one (14x21) as a second set up. Sweet package deal, and it should also push the top speed closer to 50 knots, while still - and much more important - allowing for better fuel economy while just "puttering around" the lake and the Sound.

I could have saved a few bucks and ordered a propeller on-line, but these guys are skilled local craftsmen and should be supported! On top of that, today they not only delivered great customer service, but also a great deal!

PropellerZ and RockZ = Bad Thing...

Well, while VERY SLOWLY looking for a spot to drop anchor last night, I went a tad too far into the bay (sandy/muddy bottom) and therefore dediced to back out a boat lenght or so.
Put the engine in reverse, and on idle start to go back - to suddenly hear "something" and the engine quickly stalling. Darn, a rock! And not only "a" rcok, the ONLY rock in that entire part of the bay.
One blade sheared off, about 1 inch or so, the other baldes essentially untouched.

I guess the lesson's learned. Even when in familiar waters, there's always unknown "stuff" lurking underneath.

Oh well, the joy of boating...

Seattle Boat Zhow

Today I did something I hadn't done in many years, I went to an indoor boat show.

When we were teenagers, Anders, Jan, Jonas, and myself, we used to go to the Gothenburg BoatShow every February. It was almost religion, a highlight in the dull and wet WestCoast winter. Since we were all sailors, we were checking out all the new gear - and there was lots - for our adventures on the race course in the spring. Jonas by the way was the one who most often used to win. I did beat him a few times, but he always had the upper hand when the season ended.

But, back to the Seattle Boat Show. A few reflections;

This is almost focused on power boats. Where are all the sailors?

Most (boat) sales guys are overweight smokers in their 50ies. Does not seem very eager to sell or even demo a boat. Sort of just want to "hang out" and look at the crowds (hopefully) that passes through their "objects". A few exceptions in the highest (most expensive boats) categories where staff was both professional, impeccably attired, and nice.
When visiting the "floating" part of the show down on Lake Union, the sales guys seemed more interested in getting out of the cold and into the bar at nearby Hooters - while there was still a crowd on the docks!

I've worked so many trade shows (telecom equipment/services) and you simply cannot afford NOT to be attentive to the people who actually have taken time out of their busy days (and paying for the privilidge) to visit and look at your products. Out of the most innocent trade show contacts, big business can spur. I can vouche for that!

Back to the boats;
The majority of boats at this show lacked "style", at least "Style" in a traditional sense. There was everything in any shape, as long as it lends itself to be classified as "party boat". Far too many bow riders in all sizes. A few of them actually looked more like landing crafts. Nothing that you'd take out in rough weather, or for a longer trip. I guess people are so tight on time they like hanging around in front of their houses, partying, burning gas - instead of experiencing the wonderful boating waters we are so lucky to have in the Pacific NorthWest.

And, the American boat manufacturers still have not figured out that a carpeted interior ON PLYWOOD is a bad thing in a boat, especially in an open boat. The plywood will eventually get wet, rot, and water will long before that have affected the (wooden) stringers. Why can't you build boats with a fiberglass interior and a snap-in carpet? Or better, fiberglass interior with nice teak trim, even on daily cruisers?

Now to the nice liners at this show;
The new Chris Crafts are a rare exception to the rule of general ugliness. Truly classic "road runners" with soft and gracious lines, new (and odd) colors, and they dare to actually use teak both for trim and utility. OK, these are not the lowest priced boats around, but they are among the few that actually deserve the term "boat". They even manage to stay away from the cheesy fake wood others have on their dashboards, and go for something more neutral instead. Way to go CC. To end it, a focus on Volvo drive packages proves that Chris Craft really are a quality builder. Clearly the best drive package out there today.















Chris Craft aside, most others were "crafts" as in pleasure crafts (or landing crafts), though even the venerable Chris Craft had a line of bow riders (aptly called "Launch"). Hopefully, they will not be too long lived.















Apart from the Mega yachts, some looking unfortunately like floating fridges (just like the Bayliners in the 35-40 foot range), a few of the more utilitarian (=pricey) aluminum boats, and some really nice "Lobster style" boats (VERY pricey), the only thing that grabbed my attention was an offering from a local company in Kent, WA. Their C-Ranger R-25 seem to be a really nice cruiser. Small enough to be fairly economical (Yanmar diesel), but still with seagoing capabilities of a larger vessel, something that could easily be taken all the way up to Alaska and back. Sort of an SUV for the islands. Perfect home for two adults and a couple of dogs. The R-25 looked like it was a solidly built boat with a nice quality of workmanship and more than average use of teak. A minor, but needed, design change, is to lift the helm higher up. As it was now, it was for too deep down into the (very deep) cabin to be practical and even to "feel" good. From the outside, port side had a large window in the cabin, giving it a bit too much look like a house boat. The starboard side was much better with a split window. Should be an easy fix to mimic the nice design from "starboard" even to "port".
Loaded with two mountainbikes and a kayak at an overhead "roof rack", this vessel actually even looked like an SUV. Cool!



And, should not forget to mention the display of some classic James Bond Boats. Fun to see these props IRL. And they actually seem to work. Just too sad this part was sort of stuck in a corner of the show, or more correctly the parking garage. It certainly deserved a better spot and also some more glamour. Now it was just these 4 vessels, and a bucket to drop entry forms in.

KirklandBoat on the Zea

With a day that can only be described as PERFECT, we pulled in to the marina late last night. Friends in town from out of state, first time I've seen them in years. What could be better than "taking on water" and showing them Seattle from the "other side"?

Some minor issues with carburators delays departure, but once out on the lake, engine is running better than ever. Smooth "sailing" along the shores. Does a run past Bill Gates' house (Annie desperately wanted to see it) and then over towards MontLake. No wake, no wind, and the lake is as smooth as a mirror.

Checking out the house boats along Lake Union before heading for the locks. Only two boats ahead of us and less than a 5 minute wait. Wonder what the sound will look like?
Out there, it is just as nice as the lake. No winds, no wake, and just some smooth and tall waves from a passing ship. Fun roller coaster ride!

We hit Bell Harbor Marina and find a guest spot on the "reservation". $10 for 4 hours is not that bad. Meet up with friends and family at Marriott (within a stone's throw) for a sunny and lazy happy hour with snacks and beer.

Before departing, and picking up another crew member, a pass by Marriott's "lounge" to get some freshly baked cookies and fruit. Fear the time is a tad late for a safe passage back, but turns out it could not be better. Wind has picked up a tiny bit, but just to provide more of a salty breeze (so different compared to boating on fresh water) and also to give us a clear view of Mt. Rainier. No wait at the locks and the ride back home across the lake is as good as the ride out. Back "home" around 10PM and it is still HOT, with really no relief stepping in to the water. Can a Kirkland evening really be any better than this?

MarineShop cloZed on a weekend?

Saturday is wife's birthday. Apart from all the "regular" stuff, we also plan for a run into Seattle for some birthday feeding.
On the way to "downtown" I manage to convince the driver to pass by Newport Shores and Mercer Marine. I am in dire need for some gaskets and seals for my newly cleaned carburetors.

Hitting the marina, just to find Mercer Marine CLOSED!
If you are in the recreation/leisure business, boating is still recreation for me, how come you actually dare to have a place closed on weekend day, a day when most boaters are looking for "stuff".
And, Mercer Marine being the only Volvo Penta dealer around, I really have no other choices than to return on Monday.
But, this still bugs me. I guess a call to Volvo Penta of North America is in place. I'd be happy to represent them, but these days, most of the stuff can be found on the internet from more or less scrupulous e-tailers in Florida.

However, I think Volvo Penta could be much better represented in the Seattle area than by these guys. Closed on a Saturday? They must be kidding!

(Note added on Monday 07/10/06:
Biked to Mercer Marine. With only one customer ahead of me, there is still a bit of a wait. The guy who eventually comes to help me out is friendly, but I can almost tell I know as much or more about boat engines and drives as he does. After scanning through their inventory, I leave with only about 10% of what I came for. The most important I got though; the gaskets for the high-pressure fuel line. All the other gaskets are in good shape, and can be replaced when the season's over and boat is undergoing winter maintenance.
Note to self: Next time in need of boat parts, don't even bother to bike/drive to MercerMarine. Better getting on the phone and order stuff from elsewhere. Likely faster, but MUCH cheaper. Sad, since I really like to support the local merchants, but I hope that someone reading this is nice enough to pass the message to Mercer Marine.)

TulipFeZtival

Just got back from the TulipFestival outside La Conner. Sunny but windy day, skies clear and not a cloud, a bit on the cold side. Perfect day, since the crowds is likely otherwise unmanageable (traffic was bad in spots regardless).

Parents had planned to go to Amsterdam, but that fell through, so they crossed the polar ice cap for their third visit to Washington State - and the tulips here. Not a bad choice, heh?

Colors seem to be predominantly red and yellow, and they make for impressive scenery with the snow capped Mount Baker in the background, all under the watchful eyes of the neverending blue sky. Pretty, and we get a lot of good pictures taken. My guess is that some will show up on a Christmas card...

After flowers it is time for the obligatory visit to "downtown" La Conner. We're all hungry, so how come most (food) places in La Conner closes at 6 PM - on a Saturday - in the middle of their peak tourist season? An architect we know has designed one of the new places, nice deck towards the water, and even a little "doggie watering station" next to the entrance. It looks great, but when we try to pull the door, it is locked. At 6.05 PM? See people inside cleaning up, pay no attention to the "stupid" tourists at the door.
Lesson learned. If you are going to La Conner, eat first, bring a picnic, or realize that they really don't want you to visit at all. After some strolling, we eventually find a little neat wine store where we sample some wine and some cheese. Parents not too eager on the wine thing, we walk down the street to a local diner. It is "regular" American style food. Setting is maybe not the prettiest, but the wait staff is friendly, the prices are really reasonable and the portions huge. I think there will even be enough left over to feed dogs hiding in the car. And, most importantly, I get my micro brew - finally!

La Conner (apart from closing early...) has changed a bit since our last visit. Many buildings seem to have vanished and there is now a nice Lodge straddling the waterfront. I really like its design, and take tons of pictures, hoping to be able to incorporate some of that (design) at home.
In front of said Lodge, an old wooden yacht that has seen better days is moored. Looking closer, I see it has a Swedish flag at the mast. Walk down, but find no one home, apart from a sign telling us the 65' "ship" is for sale. I hope it goes to someone with both funds and a good heart, since it'd be waste to see such a beautiful vessel end up rotting away in the hands of a well meaning owner w/o money for its upkeep.

It's Znowing

Yesterday we actually saw the first snow of the season. It was not what we really would like to call snow, too warm for that, but it did for a while actually cast a shade of white on the green lawns and bushes. The weatherman tells us we might still see more of it over the weekend, so maybe, maybe...
And, of course the wet snow (it was really wet, walked the dog while it was coming down, got soaked) prevented ANY efforts in putting up those darn lights. Wife also wanted a "special" design, something along these lines - see here. Not sure if I'd survive that design for more than a few minutes. A bit too loud for my taste - albeit pretty lively - and Christmas is still far away...

Have also now formally after a wonderful hiatus and vacation gotten into the serious job searching mode. Polished resume, talked to head-hunters, and the like. Will soon start pester my local contacts once I've scanned the open postings and determined which ones are worth while pursuing. Should be good get back into "it" again.

If all bodes well, we will also take the boat out once more this season. A trip around Lake Washington to check out the Christmas decorations is always a worth while effort this time of the year. Even though it can be COLD out there. But, seeing everything from the sea(lake) side gives it a different flair. Argosy Cruises are also in December running “cruises” around the lake and they come around a few times singing Christmas carols. It is quite pretty seeing these decorated and lit ships, blasting traditional Christmas carols ashore. If you want to know more when and where these ships are to be found, check here.