AFTERMARKET 700% stronger bearings 03/07/2023 Save article Harken’s new Zircon blocks are the company’s most efficient small boat blocks. SHOW FULLSCREEN Harken’s Zircon block has low-friction ceramic ball bearings Features of the blocks include industrial ceramic ball bearings mounted inside caged races. The cages have been developed to keep the bearings apart, so they don’t bunch up, touch and stop each other making it a free-running, low-friction block. “Give an unloaded Zircon block a strong spin, and it spins an incredibly long time,” explained a Harken spokesperson. “Ceramic is a more familiar name for the metallic oxide Zirconia. Zircon bearings are more than 700% stronger in compression than stainless bearings of the same size so, they will not deform if used within the recommended load limits.” The bearings will also absorb less energy before starting to roll, making the blocks more responsive, especially in light airs. “Zircon feels like you can push the line out,” added the spokesperson. “At top wind range, you can rig more mainsheet purchase so you can physically trim harder—but still ease through those additional sheaves when the wind lightens up. “In the lightest air, trimmers feel they can actually push the sheet out.” The blocks are available in single and double blocks, with or without beckets, and in 40mm and 57mm sheaves. Topics Blockdinghy sailingMasts, spars, sails & riggingPerformance sailingsail trimming

Source: 700% stronger bearings | News | Boating Business

AFTERMARKET New multi-sheave configurations 03/07/2023 Save article Ronstan has added to its 20mm single sheave ball bearing and HHL Orbit lashing block range with multi-sheave configurations as well as a lightweight cheek block. SHOW FULLSCREEN Ronstan’s RF25209 double lashing block The company’s double and triple lashing blocks, including a double HHL version for higher load applications, have been developed to offer sailors stronger and lighter options for multi-purchase control systems on modern high performance and foiling sailboats. The 20mm sheave diameter will accommodate up to 6mm lines, with a 4mm lashing line passing through the central hub to ensure the blocks meet published loads. The RF25209 double lashing block is a lightweight 14g block with a maximum working load (MWL) of 300kg and a breaking load (BL) of 800kg. T he RF25309 triple lashing block features the same maximum working load and breaking load and weighs just 21g. Both the double and triple blocks use Ronstan’s two-stage bearing system for high efficiency under both dynamic and static loads. For higher load applications, the RF25209HL double block features stainless steel HHL sheaves with stainless steel ball races and bearings, providing a higher 450kg MWL (900kg BL). The block weighs 26g. Topics blocksfoiling sailboatMasts, spars, sails & riggingPerformance sailingsailing block

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AFTERMARKET Larger blocks requested 03/07/2023 Save article Seldén Mast has expanded its range of Roller Bearing Blocks. SHOW FULLSCREEN Selden’s 130mm Roller Bearing Block The low resistance, high dynamic load block range now includes larger single and single/stand ups in 100mm and 130mm blocks. The new blocks are suitable for backstays, main sheet arrangements and sheets for downwind sails on yachts of various sizes. “The boat builders we work with have been requesting larger blocks in our Roller Bearing Block range for spinnaker sheets, backstays and German sheeting, so we’ve extended the range to fulfil this need,” says Steve Norbury, Seldén Mast’s UK subsidiary MD. “The new blocks’ low resistance at high, dynamic loads will make it easier for sailors to release a highly tensioned backstay, main sheet, spinnaker halyard or kicker, and as the blocks respond instantly to maintain delicate trimming and sail handling, sailors can just focus on what really matters – performance and boat speed.” The RBB range features machined, black anodised aluminium cheeks and sheave, Torlon roller bearings for radial loads and thrust bearings for resisting side loads. The additional blocks mean the range is is now available in sizes from 60mm to 130 mm. Topics BoatbuilderMasts, spars, sails & riggingsailing blockyachtyacht sailing

Source: Larger blocks requested | News | Boating Business

A historic sailing club said it was being threatened with closure due to lease changes by Anglian Water. Northampton Sailing Club, based at Pitsford Reservoir, said the water company wanted to take back about a third of the shore it uses. Commodore Sarah Carswell said the change could lead to the “dissolution” of the club. Anglian Water said it was “working with the club to come to an agreement where we can both use the area”. The club was started in 1956 when the reservoir was approved for sailing use. Among its former members is Dylan Fletcher-Scott, gold medallist in the 49er sailing class at the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics. The area of shore affected has been developed over the last 20 years as a safe landing and recovery zone for windsurfers, the club said.

Source: Northampton Sailing Club fears for future due to lease change – BBC News

INDUSTRY NEWS RYA works harder to open up boating to everyone 28/06/2023 Save article The RYA has launched its ‘Together on Water’ strategy which encompasses a bold new vision to open up boating to new audiences. SHOW FULLSCREEN Source: RYA The RYA has launched its ‘Together on Water’ strategy zoom inzoom out With a refreshed new brand identity, the new strategy sets out how the association will work in partnership to get more people on the water and inspire them to discover and safely develop their sailing skills. “We firmly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity and encouragement, to enjoy being on the water and to do so in a safe environment,” said Sara Sutcliffe MBE, CEO, RYA. “It’s not a quick fix, but we are determined to break down barriers and open up our world to everyone with an interest in the blue spaces, sports and pastimes we’re so passionate about.” Renewed purpose ‘Together on Water’ was developed following extensive consultation across the sailing and boating sector. The new strategic vision comes off the back of learnings during the Covid pandemic, which saw millions of people from across the UK trying out new water-based activities. But, this has not yet led to a sustained increase in participation and, beyond those enjoying initial taster experiences, more regular boaters display relatively low demographic diversity. Dinghy racing has allso declined over time and club numbers remain static. The RYA said it is determined to address these trends and to evolve against the backdrop of an increasingly fast-paced, choice-rich, time-poor society. It also wants to showcase the positive impact watersports can have on health, well-being and in protecting a connection with nature.     Topics BoatingclubIndustry NewsmembershipRYASailingwater sports

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AFTERMARKET New block range from Allen 26/06/2023 Save article Allen has launched a new 40mm dynamic block range. SHOW FULLSCREEN Allen’s 40mm dynamic block range is available in 29 variations The blocks are available in 29 variations, manufactured from high-strength, lightweight glass-loaded nylon incorporating Allen’s dynamic bearing technology. Development has taken place over the last two years with a focus on the high-performance keelboat and dinghy market with new variations for different systems. The blocks have stainless-steel ball bearings which Allen says roll more quickly and last longer when subjected to high working loads compared to plastic alternatives. The blocks also have a stainless-steel rail for the balls to roll on for further friction reduction and improved reliability and performance over a longer period. “To further reduce friction, we have encapsulated the ball bearings in a cage, this stops each of the bearings from rubbing against each other,” said an Allen spokesperson. “The reduced friction in caged ball bearings leads to improved performance. “With less friction, the bearings can operate more efficiently, requiring less energy to rotate. This results in smoother operation, reduced wear, and improved overall performance of the block.” Other features include a lockable swivel shackle attachment which can be locked in 90-degree orientations. Alternatively, the shackle lock can be removed for the block to rotate freely. Single, double and triple sheave options are available with aluminium ball-bearing cam cleats mounted via an adjustable arm which can be adjusted to suit different sheeting angles. Topics BlockDinghyKeelboatMasts, spars, sails & riggingSailing boat

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AFTERMARKETLloyd’s Register certification for rigging company26/06/2023Save articleRondal has been awarded certification as a Lloyd’s Register Approved Service Supplier for the survey of masts and rigging on Bermuda (fore and aft-rigged) vessels.SHOW FULLSCREENRondal has achieved Lloyd’s Register certification for Bermuda rigged vesselsLloyd’s Register approves safety standards on superyachts as well as on commercial ships.Sailing vessels seeking to obtain or renew Lloyd’s Register Certification must be able to document that services such as measurements, test, periodic surveys or maintenance of safety systems or equipment have been provided by the organisation’s Approved Service Suppliers.To achieve the approval, auditors examined Rondal’s methods, documentation processes and training to make sure they meet its necessary quality standards.“We have worked with Lloyd’s for a long time on certification of many of the products we manufacture such as spars, winches and hatches,” said Harry Mijnsbergen, Rondal’s manager of service and aftersales.“They are well aware of our work and this audit was largely about fine tuning the specifics and procedures from our service. We have already been training all members of our survey and service team in this methodology.”Rondal primarily performs mast and rigging survey work on superyachts over 40m in length.TopicsMasts, spars, sails & rigging

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AFTERMARKET First ever winches from Ronstan 02/06/2023 Save article Ronstan has introduced its first-ever range of winches. SHOW FULLSCREEN Ronstan’s first winch range includes the 20ST, 30QT, and 40QT The Orbit Winches have been manufactured from lightweight aluminium and designed to be performance based. The winches are easy to service, with no tools required for disassembly and maintenance. “Our long experience manufacturing Andersen Stainless Steel Winches defines our non-negotiable standards for reliability, mechanical efficiency, and unparalleled user experience,” said a company spokesperson. “For everything else, the new winches were developed from the deck up with a different set of priorities and an eye for innovation.” Design features such as the drum’s smooth surface finish and power ribs from Andersen winches are incorporated for line grip and control with minimal rope wear. The winches are available in sizes 20ST, 30QT, and 40QT with the two larger sizes incorporating Ronstan’s patented QuickTrim self-tailer which allows sailors to ease line tension to make minor sail trim adjustments without removing the winch handle or taking the line out of the self-tailer. A small anti-clockwise rotation of the self-tailing cover allows the self-tailer to turn beneath it like a sheave as the rope is eased, with grip and control maintained with the drum’s power ribs. The self-tailer is locked for normal use to resume once the top cover springs back into place. “Racing sailors can react and respond instantly to minor course corrections or changes in wind pressure and direction, providing an unmatched advantage when frequent sail trim adjustments are required,” added the spokesperson. “Cruising sailors will also appreciate the simple convenience when adjusting sail trim.” Topics Cruising sailorDeck Hardwareracing sailorself-tailing winchWinchwinch handle

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INDUSTRY NEWSWatersports participation rises in the UK30/05/2023Save articleAround 13.2 million UK adults tried a boating activity in 2022, up 3% from 12.8 million in 2021.SHOW FULLSCREENUK watersports participation risesThe figures are from the Watersports Participation Survey 2022 which shows that more than 10 million people took part in one or more boating activities once or twice in 2022, whilst the number of people taking part more frequently in on water activities remained similar to the previous year (3.2 million).“It is encouraging to see that watersports participation has continued to prove popular with the UK population post the pandemic boom,” said Lesley Robinson, CEO, British Marine.“Paddle sport activities, particularly stand up paddleboarding, which are easily accessible both on the coast and inland waterways, have remained extremely popular with participation figures continuing to rise, however it does appear that the trend is still for more infrequent, experiential participation rather than regular participation.”With the popularity of paddleboarding continuing to increase, British Canoeing has been formally recognised as a National Governing Body for the sport by Sport England and has appointed a new stand up paddleboarding lead for the organisation.“The ongoing growth of stand up paddleboarding has been unprecedented,” said Ashley Metcalfe, CEO British Canoeing, who also warned that more safety measures should be put in place.“Our new status as a recognised body presents us with a great opportunity to develop the discipline further and ensure safety guidance is enhanced for new and experienced paddlers,” he said.The Watersports Participation Survey covers participation from October 2021 to September 2022.The survey is conducted annually by a consortium of marine bodies including British Marine, Royal Yachting Association, Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Royal National Lifeboat Institution, British Canoeing, Canal and River Trust and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science.The core boating activities include small sailboat racing, other small sailboat activities, yacht racing, yacht cruising, power boating, general motor boating/cruising, canal boating, canoeing, rowing/sculling, windsurfing, water skiing and wakeboarding and using personal watercraft.TopicscanoeingIndustry NewspaddleboardingSUPsurveywatersportswatersports participation

Source: Watersports participation rises in the UK | News | Boating Business

EVENTS & SHOWS Anchor drag risk is minimised 25/05/2023 Save article AnchorGuardian uses new patented technology to minimise the risk of anchor drag. Sensors are used to provide intelligent data throughout the anchoring procedure, providing a continuous stream of information to a captain and crew. “The technology is entirely new and provides a smarter way, a safer way we can anchor,” explained Suzy Chisholm, head of company communications and co-founder. “We’re providing a wealth of information to a captain and crew, intelligence they didn’t have before; laying the anchor, at anchor and lifting. “We’re able to give all the information, what sediment there is, how far the anchor is from the seabed, when the anchor has hit the seabed, how its lying on the seabed. “Our ultimate goal is to bring safety to anchoring.” And if the anchor does start to drag, information is provided on how fast it’s moving, with data visible on an electronic chart, providing predictions and triggering alarms, minimising the risk of groundings, collisions and environmental damage with the anchor ripping up the seabed. The technology operates independently of a GPS and any movement of a ship. “How to reduce the impact of an anchor on the seabed is a huge issue,” added Suzy. “Anchors do get dragged, and we want to minimise that as much as possible. “It’s another tool in the crew’s arsenal.” AnchorGuardian has been certified by the leading class societies including Lloyds and RINA. The product will be in the Innovation showcase at Seawork and available to see with UK distributor, Atlantis Marine Power on stand P12. Topics AnchorAnchor dragCertificationenvironmentEnvironment & Sustainabilityintelligent datapatents

Source: Anchor drag risk is minimised | News | Boating Business