April/May 2024, Issue No. 208 — Table of Contents
On the cover: The victorious challenger, Australia II, left, fitted with a controversial winged keel, is in close action with the U.S. defender, Liberty, during competition off Newport, Rhode Island, for the 1983 America’s Cup. Story on page 32. Photograph by Guy Gurney.
FEATURES
18 Balance of Power
by Nigel Calder
The development of complex hybrid marine propulsion systems is just one step on the path to full electrification envisaged by e-Motion founder Michele Maggi.
32 How Australia II Got Its Wings
Part 2: Finding Truth in the Tank
by Peter van Oossanen
A tank-testing lab in The Netherlands convinced Australian challengers to rely on performance-prediction data and analysis as they designed the 12-Meter that made America’s Cup history.
46 Ahead of the Curve
by Hans Buitelaar
A Dutch yard adopts composite panel molding technology to build boats from preshaped wooden hull sections.
58 Top Picks from the Trade Shows
by Nigel Calder and Steve D’Antonio
Some of our editors’ favorites from IBEX and METSTrade 2023.
DEPARTMENTS
4 Letters, Etc.
A reader comments on the need to moderate yacht size and speed to reduce environmental impact.
6 Rovings
compiled by Dieter Loibner
Candela’s bet on foiling ferries; SAFE Boats International adopts employee ownership; the return of the SNAME Powerboat Symposium; and eight bells Carl Chamberlin.
54 Task Sheet: Repacking Conventional Stuffing Boxes
by Steve D’Antonio
A guide to replacing material in prop shaft packing glands.
72 Parting Shot
by Chris Caswell
Advice from a boating writer to builders on good care and feeding of media contacts.
READER SERVICES
67 New Products and Processes
68 Connections
69 Classified Advertising