Tidelines: Daldy cruises

The steam tug William C Daldy plans to run two New Zealand Herald Auckland Anniversary Regatta cruises on January 27. The plan is to allow close-up viewing of the replica 18s from Sydney and the M-Class fleet in action. There's a barbecue and cash bar on board. Tickets are $30. Call 0800 111 444 for details.

Standards action

The British Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA), which is conducting a review of the Large Yacht Code, has turned its attention to standards for masts and rigging. At present there are few British and no international standards that apply to big yachts. Claude Hamilton, who heads the Code Vessel Safety Branch at MCA, says the agency is aware of accidents attributed to masts and rigging. Because the design and construction of larger craft are evolving rapidly, and as racing boats especially are becoming bigger and faster, a new international standard is essential.

Caribbean bid

St Maarten, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, the Dominican Republic and Antigua are the latest Caribbean regions aiming to improve their profile as yachting destinations. St Maarten Transportation Commissioner Michael Ferrier says he expects the megayacht sector to be the next marine area to experience spectacular growth. Ferrier is quoted in Boating Industry International as saying completion of the Simpson Bay bridge extension this month will allow the island to accommodate the biggest superyachts.

Water-watch

The Safe Summer campaign teams are at the Okahu Bay boat ramp today with some special messages about lifejackets and skipper responsibility. Look for the MAI FM and WaterSafe Auckland people running competitions and giveaways between 10am and noon. Other activity:

Saturday: Rakino race (DYC); Roy McDell Memorial Gold Cup (RNZYS); Printing Express series (PCC).

Saturday and Sunday: OK dinghy nationals continue at Manly (MSC).

Sunday: International Youth Championship (RNZYS).

* Clubs and organisations planning events on or in the Waitemata or Manukau Harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on (09) 366 2070.