This past week we had the opportunity to visit the workshop of Hawkes Ocean Technology. They are the builders of "winged submersibles" that dive using short wings and forward momentum rather than the traditional variable ballast submarines rely on. The most apt comparison is that a normal sub is like a hot air balloon, where as Hawkes Ocean Technology makes underwater planes. Not using variable ballast lets them build subs that maintain positive buoyancy (a useful safety factor), in a compact and (relatively) cheap package.



It was inspiring to tour their workshop, including getting to view Deep Flight Challenger (below), a sub being built to dive to full ocean depth (36,000 feet). This sub was funded by Steve Fossett, for a planned record attempt for the world's deepest solo manned submersible dive. Unfortunately, the fate of this project is in limbo now that Fossett has been declared dead after his small plane disappeared over Nevada. Anyone interested in joining a consortium to realize this exploration?

A few weekends ago we were out for a relaxing day sail, just puttering around the central/south bay. We had a lovely (and un-blogworthy) afternoon and were headed back to our new slip at Brisbane Marina when we spotted a power boat chugging slowly southward. It slowly became apparent that we were on a close to (if not actual) collision course with the boat. We were not overly concerned because as a sailboat under full sail, we clearly had rights over the powerboat. However as we got closer, it became apparent that something was not right. I first heard the man on board shouting at the women who was steering, telling her in no uncertain terms not to change her course to avoid us in any way.
As we continued to get closer, the man became more and more belligerent toward us; shouting obscenities over to us for as long as we were within shouting distance. He was furious at us "stupid sailboaters" for getting in his way. Obviously, we had to shout back which only fueled his rage. It was unbelievable how stupid and irresponsible this guy was.

Whatever bad taste that experience left in my mouth was washed away by our overnighter in Richardson Bay this weekend. It was perfect early spring weather, and we headed up towards the Central bay and crossed the slot with jib, staysail and full main. It was so beautiful we decided to spend the night at anchor in Richardson Bay. Once at anchor, I rowed the dinghy in to Sausalito for fish and chips and brought them back for a most satisfying meal on board. Jacob kept a close eye on our position during the night, and we didn't drag. We got up right as the sun was rising and motored across the Bay surrounded by all sorts of birds and sea lions.
This is possibly the best way I can think of to spend a weekend.