What and Why: Alberg 30 Rebuild and Redesign

The Alberg 30 is a famous sailboat for being extremely easy to sail and extremely capable at sailing. These little 30 foot sailboats can be seen all over the world, with their stout full keel and simple rig. They have few amenities which means they have less to break and as a result are able to keep sailing when other, more sophisticated sailboats, breakdown.

Alberg 30

These boats have a simple and stout rig which is very versatile and easy to use. There is a mainsail and a headsail, normally set on a roller furler. Depending on the winds you will normally be seeing, you can carry your favorite headsail on the furler and deploy it as needed. This is great for short handed sailing in protected areas where you can simply furl the sail away when you get to your destination and focus on relaxing with a sundowner instead of bagging sails.

The shallow draft is also really useful as this lets you get into excellent anchorages where you can duck out of the weather as needed. If you bump the bottom, the full keel will hold you up until the tide rises or you jump in the water and push the boat off the shoal with your shoulder, as a 4.5 foot draft makes this boat very manageable in sticky situation.

Docking is also easy to carry out as the boat is rather light, normally around 9,000 pounds when sitting on her designed waterline. This means that pushing off the pier or pulling in on the dock lines is doable with simple arm or leg strength. This boat is an awesome little cruiser which is why they have an intense following.

Alberg 30’s have a rather high concentration in the Chesapeake Bay, where more than half of the known Alberg’s are moored. Such a concentration of this good little boat means that if you really want one, you only need to search in one area to find one that is for sale and in an agreeable condition for your plans.

My plans for my next project are to build something which I consider the ultimate ocean cruising boat for short handed sailing. The Alberg 30 is the ultimate platform to build on as it starts off as such a good little boat.

The end result will be a 40 foot sailboat which is notably bigger than the original 30 foot design, but most of the extension will simply be the bowsprit jutting forward. To reduce marina fees, this bow sprit will be retractable!

On the stern, a robust stern anchor roller will be mounted in a fiberglass extension on the stern which will also wrap around the Monitor Windvane and provide more space for solar panels. The stern extension will only be 4 feet long to keep the forces low on it. As I am not a naval architect, neither do I imagine myself to be one, I am building this structure to be as minimal as possible. The pontoons of the extension are small so that their volume doesn’t affect the boats center of buoyancy much when they are immersed. For the most part, this extension will be above the waterline so that it has no effect on the boats sailing characteristics at all.

The rig will be changed from a simple sloop to a more complicated cutter rig with three headsails. Instead of roller furling, each dedicated sail will be hank on and have reef points in them to provide more versatility to the sailplan without the added storage space requirements for additional sails. The plan is to have a Staysail, Genoa, and Yankee, and if the winds are light, fly a Drifter on the furthest forward headstay.

The plans are constantly in flux as we go working on one aspect which then narrows down exactly how we will do the next aspect of the build. Having a general guideline but not strict figures makes the project more fluid in the execution. We know what we want to have and figure out the details along the way.

To make this project possible, we have partnered with TotalBoat who is our sole supplier for all our fiberglass needs. We are getting all of our CSM, 1708, Gelcoat, and Polyester resin from them.

We are using Polyester instead of Epoxy purely for cost reasons. This project does not need to be done in Epoxy, and the price difference adds up. Epoxy costs roughly $100 per gallon, while Polyester costs $67 per gallon.

The goal is to build a very capable sailboat where everything is robust and easy to control for a small crew or single hander and make this classic sailboat look timeless.

Celebrate 50,000 Subscribers by Cleaning the Ocean

Every subscriber milestone, we organize a fundraiser for an organization that is doing something to help the oceans. For 50,000 subscribers, the organization we chose is The Ocean Cleanup.

They are doing a wonderful job at removing tons of plastic from the ocean to give marine life a break!

Your tax deductible donation will help fund their operation!

Click here to visit the donation page where you can donate directly to The Ocean Cleanup and make a difference in the world!

Tips to Go for a day Long Fishing Trip With Friends

Fishing is a fantastic way to escape the routine of daily life and a great way to spend time with friends and the natural world. Imagine spending the dayamidst the tranquil beauty of the sea and the excitement of the catch. 

However, if you don't plan, a day of fishing could end in disaster. We are here to ensure you make the most of your fishing endeavors.

We will lead you on a quest to learn everything you need to make your day of fishing with friends unforgettable, from food to equipment. Prepare to cast your line, sit back, and enjoy nature's splendor.

1. Plan Ahead

When it comes to fishing with friends, preparation is key. Planning will help you find the greatest fishing areas, have the necessary tools and supplies, stay safe, avoid surprises, and make the most of your time on the water. 

You can learn about the rules and licenses needed for fishing by researching the area. You'll be prepared for the trip if you have the equipment, such as fishing rods, bait, and life jackets. Making the most of the day and finding the best fishing places requires getting to the fishing location early.

By checking the weather forecast, having a first aid kit on hand, and donning a life jacket while fishing from a boat, planning can also help you be ready for safety concerns. In general, careful planning is necessary for a fruitful and pleasurable day of fishing with friends.

Before you explore inshore fishing spots, check out this New Orleans fishing charters guide suitable for anglers of all skill levels of fishing. 

1. Pack Food and Drinks

Packing ample food and drinks is essential when fishing. Think about it, you'll be out in the sun for a whole day and need to keep your energy levels up. Plus, fishing can be a relaxing and slow-paced activity, so you'll want something to munch on between catching fish.

Regarding food, it's a good idea to bring both perishable and non-perishable items. For example, you could pack sandwiches, fruit, and snacks for lunch, and trail mix or energy bars for a quick pick-me-up. Remember to bring plenty of water, too, as staying hydrated is important for a successful and safe fishing trip.

1. Arrive Early

Arriving early at your fishing location is a smart move, my friend. Not only does it give you a chance to secure the best fishing spots before they get taken, but it also allows you to make the most of your day and have more time to catch fish. 

The earlier you start fishing, the calmer the waters tend to be, which can result in a better fishing experience. Trust us; you'll appreciate the peace if you arrive early, as it can help you avoid crowds and busy fishing spots. And let's remember the lighting - early morning light can be ideal for fishing, as fish are more active during this time. 

1. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions

Planning a fishing excursion with friends requires careful consideration of the weather. The water temperature, clarity, and fish activity are all significantly influenced by the weather, which can also provide safety issues during extreme weather events like thunderstorms, strong winds, or stormy waves. 

As spending the entire day in the sun or the rain can significantly reduce your enjoyment of the trip, comfort is another crucial factor. It is crucial to check the weather prediction and make plans and preparations following it, whether it means packing extra clothing, sunscreen, or rain gear. 

You can ensure that everyone fishing has a secure, comfortable, and pleasurable experience.

1. Respect the Environment 

It's crucial to respect the environment when fishing, and we should make an effort to have as little influence as possible. 

This entails abiding by local fishing laws, using environmentally friendly equipment, engaging in catch and release, leaving no trace, and causing as little disruption to ecosystems and wildlife as possible.

These actions will ensure our favorite fishing places and the delicate ecosystems they support are preserved for future generations to enjoy. To enjoy the beautiful outdoors and the sport of fishing, let's all strive together to be responsible and respectful of the environment!

1. Safety First

When fishing with friends, safety is of the utmost importance. It's crucial to be aware of the risks and take precautions to keep safe. Sun exposure, water safety, equipment safety, and wildlife encounters are typical safety concerns.

It is advised to wear protective clothing and sunscreen, attend safety training, follow the rules while fishing from a boat, inspect your fishing gear frequently, store food and gear securely to deter wildlife, and never fish alone to reduce these dangers. Always let someone know your plans and when you anticipate returning.

You can guarantee that your fishing excursion with friends will be enjoyable, safe, and memorable. Always err on caution when fishing, and avoid taking unwarranted chances.

1. Clean Your Catch

Fish cleaning is an essential element of fishing since it preserves the health of fish populations and minimizes waste. A cutting board or table, a sharp fillet knife, and a trash bag are necessary tools. 

It's crucial to kill the fish gently by either striking it in the head and rendering it unconscious or pinching its gills to lessen its suffering. 

Once the fish has been gutted, the entrails are removed and placed in a trash bag after being cut behind the gills and down the length of the belly.

Conclusion

To sum up, going on a day-long fishing excursion with friends can be enjoyable and memorable. Still, it's crucial to prepare in advance, bring the essentials, and take precautions to protect your safety. 

You may make sure that your fishing trip with friends is successful, and that you can take in the tranquility and beauty of nature while catching some fish by being prepared and by heeding this advice. 

To have a fun-filled day filled with adventure and wonderful memories, collect your pals, pack your gear, and travel to your preferred fishing location.

Combat Ocean Pollution By Quitting Cigarettes

From global warming to overfishing, human activity continues to threaten ocean health. As a necessary planetary resource and home to many marine ecosystems, it's vital that we actively do what we can to save the ocean. A feature from WEF discusses the 16 principles establishing global cooperation between coastal states worldwide. The third of these principles states: Reduce marine pollution, as human health is closely linked to the ocean's health. The Earth's water sources underpin global systems that make our planet habitable. In today's article, we'll discuss how to protect our oceans from pollution by quitting cigarettes.

How cigarettes pollute the ocean

While cigarette smoke contributes to air pollution, cigarette butts are considered harmful to our oceans. According to a WHO report on the tobacco industry, an estimated 4.5 trillion cigarette butts end up in our oceans, rivers, sidewalks, and beaches every year. Cigarette butts, while lined with paper, contain filters made of single-use plastics that break off into smaller pieces in our oceans, becoming microplastics. Cigarette butts are also home to different chemicals, 50 of which are cancer-causing. Some countries that have established smoking bans in their public spaces also do so for their beaches — such as Spain — to combat the littering problem that comes hand in hand with smoking cigarettes.

Here at Rigging Doctor, we are dedicated to living the cruising life by promoting sustainable sailing using an electric motor and synthetic rigging. To help prevent even more damage to our oceans, reducing and quitting cigarettes is a crucial direct action people can take to combat ocean pollution.

How to quit cigarettes for good

We realize it's challenging to quit smoking, especially if you're out boating and find yourself getting bored or scared of experiencing withdrawal symptoms on your voyage. Over the years, many cigarette and nicotine alternatives have emerged, offering smokers a way out of the harmful habit. From nicotine patches to hypnotherapy, the various methods for smokers to ease out of the habit may even help fight the littering problem that damages our oceans. It's important to note that while some nicotine alternatives will help you be smoke-free, they may still cause littering and be harmful to the environment.

It's essential to find alternatives that will contribute least to waste. Notably, the nicotine pouches on Prilla come in reusable cans so that you can store away pouches easily until you can dispose of them. These pouches are tobacco-free and come in different types, flavors, and nicotine strengths. They come in cans for easy storage, and you use them by placing one between your gum and your lip. Nicotine pouches vary in flavors, from minty to fruity, depending on your preference, and are readily available in convenience stores or online.

Another cigarette alternative that can help reduce littering and pollution comes in the form of e-cigarettes, as they aren't single-use. A feature from the New York Times says that even occasional use of e-cigs such as Juul can offer benefits, such as reducing one's smoking frequency by half within 24 weeks. A study found that those who used nicotine e-cigarettes were likelier to stop smoking traditional cigarettes for at least six months.

There's no doubt that quitting cigarettes is beneficial to your physical health, but focusing on the environmental benefits that come with it can also motivate your quitting journey. After all, sailing sustainably can only truly work for the environment and our oceans if we also actively distance ourselves from activities that contribute to littering and pollution.

The Best Advice from a Boat Surveyor

10 years ago, when I bought Wisdom, there were a bunch of issues that I felt strongly, that needed to be corrected immediately to make the boat liveable. Naturally, as I was a new boat owner and fresh to sailboats at the time; my concerns were far from applicable as to what actually needed to be addressed!

The boat had a little bit of water damage on the interior which had discolored the veneer. Nothing structural, only cosmetic. I mentioned to the surveyor how I planned to replace those panels with new wood and to “fix the problem”. He told me:

“Live with the problem as it is for a few months and see if it still bothers you”

This helpful piece of advice was taken to heart and I lived with the discolored veneer for a few months to see if it still bothered me. Needless to say, 10 years later my parrots found the weakened veneer and started to peel it off the bulkhead. Suddenly, the problem became very ugly and needed to be addressed!

Had I started working on the veneer all those years ago, I would have been wasting my time and resources on unnecessary aspects of the boat which offer nothing to the actual integrity to the hull and her ability to sail! Every time I see something that screams “Urgent Need To Be Fixed”, I stop and think about his wise words.

Is this something structural or cosmetic? If it’s structural, is it important? If it’s cosmetic, will it bother me in a month?

Structural issues that are part of a seldom used system are of lower priority than a structural issue that is integral to the soundness of your hull. Picture this: the car on the mast that holds the spinnaker pole broke. You no longer have a secure way to mount the spinnaker to your mast and can’t use your spinnaker pole. This sounds really bad but you are on a beam reach from one island to another and will be anchored in two days, where you can then carry out repairs.

There is no reason to repair the car while underway, and when you get to your anchorage, ask yourself “How much did I actually use the pole?” Some people use the pole every time the sail off the wind, while others only have the pole on their deck to bang their shins on when they walk by. If you are the former, replacing the broken car becomes a top priority, but if you are the latter, maybe clear off the deck a little by selling or giving away your spinnaker pole and removing the broken car.

Compare this to noticing a crack in your stem. This is a structural issue and cannot be ignored! There is no waiting or contemplating about this issue as it is critical to the structural integrity of the hull and the safety of the ship!

With cosmetic issues, imagine that your fender popped, and the topsides got scratched. For a few thousand dollars, you can get the scratched fixed and make it look like it never happened! Before you go spend thousands of dollars, maybe wait on it and see if it still bothers you in a month. If after a month, you realize that you don’t even notice the scrape, let it be and use that money on something more important to you on the boat. Likewise, if after a month, you can’t stop looking at the scrape and thinking about how horrible it looks, then get it fixed and that will be money well spent.

There is no shortage of boat projects, but there is a shortage of time and resources. Managing time, money, and parts is critical to making sure that the important projects get done in a timely manner and the less critical projects get done when you get around to it (or never).

This little bit of advice has been instrumental in the way I approach boat repairs as well as other facets of my life and I hope that it can help you too.