Tidelines: Perini launches big three-master

The Italian superyacht builder Perini Navi has launched the world's biggest private sailing yacht. Maltese Falcon, built in Turkey by subcontractors Perini Istanbul-Yildiz Gemi, is an 88m (289ft) three-masted clipper. The carbon-fibre masts are free-standing and rotating and each carries five separate square sails. The builders say the yacht will have unrivalled performance and sailing agility through the advanced sail-handling systems, which allow the yacht to be handled at sea by just one person. After sea trials next month Maltese Falcon will be delivered to its new owner mid-year.

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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission says 80 people died in 69 boating accidents in the state last year, the highest toll in more than 10 years. Commission safety spokesman Richard Moore says none of those who drowned had been wearing a lifejacket, which he called the best form of insurance on the water.

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The 2006 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will be the biggest in the event's 18-year history. Manager Barry Jenkins says 416 exhibitors have signed up for the May 18-21 exhibition, beating the previous record of 403 set in 2004. More than 350 boats are booked for the on-the-water segment with hundreds more on hardstand areas. Four pavilions will house marine products, accessories and services.

Water-watch

Royal Akarana Yacht Club is in for a busy weekend. The club is hosting the Pied Piper Nationals and the Farr 727 Nationals which will be sailed today and tomorrow. Other action:

Today: Hauraki Trifecta teams race (Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron); Cruising to Man O'War Bay (RAYC).

Organisations planning events on or in the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register in advance with the Auckland Regional Council on (09) 366 2000. The 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.