Over the last week, there have been no shortage of theories and often contradictory claims about what caused the damage to the hull and deck house of the MOL tanker M. Star while transiting the Straits of Hormuz. The initial suggestion by a port official in the United Arab Emirates that the ship was hit by a freak wave has been largely discounted. Likewise the claim by an Iranian marine authority that the explosion was do “tank overheating”, does not appear consistent with the damage to the ship. Other theories have included a collision, possibly with a submarine, a grenade and sea mine. Recently there has been speculation that the damage was caused by a waterborne improvised explosive device.
Recently, Abdullah Azzam Brigades, a group associated with Al Qaeda, has claimed responsibility for an attack on the ship. Some analysts have expressed skepticism as the group has made questionable claims in the past. The investigation continues.
Happy birthday to the 
Utsch’s Marina in Cape May will be the port-of-call for New Jersey’s Tall Ship, the authentically restored 1928 oyster schooner A.J. Meerwald, from August 3 through Sept. 5, 2010. The Meerwald offers unique sailing experiences for visitors young, old and in-between. Join a pirate crew, sample some salty oysters, trawl for marine life, send the kids off for a day-camp on the high seas, or take an evening cruise after a day on the beach.
Just over a week after a 
It is that time of year again. For twenty three of its twenty five years, the 
Zheng He’s fleet of ships has been the subject of mystery and myth for centuries. Now a joint Chinese-Kenyan expedition to excavate where one of his fleet is thought to have been sunk in the 15th century may finally shed light on the amazing exploits of the legendary Chinese navigator. Thanks to 
Philadelphia’s tall ship, the barquentine 
In early July we celebrated the 
Last summer, the 
Two weeks ago the remains of an 
The teen-round-the-world-sailing-escapades may be starting all over again.