Tidelines: Florida afloat

Figures released by the National Marine Manufacturers' Association show Florida has kept its place as America's top boating state. Florida recorded US$1.51 billion ($2.7 billion) in combined boat, motor, trailer and accessory sales. California took second spot with US$1.45 billion ($2.6 billion), a huge jump on the 2001 sales total of US$1.09 billion ($1.97 billion).

Sailing for starters

The Royal Akarana Yacht Club's sailing academy continues its successful programme this weekend with learn-to-sail sessions from 9am to noon today and level 3 from 1pm to 4pm. Tomorrow the academy will run two level 2 sessions, from 9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm. Because the programme has been expanded, some spots are still available. Call the academy on 524 9945.

Top tow vehicle

American Trailerboat magazine's 21st annual Tow Vehicle of the Year award has gone to Ford. The F-350 Super Duty dual-rear-wheel 4x4 pick-up powered by the Powerstroke 6-litre turbodiesel V8 beat Dodge and GMC for the title.

Water-watch

The last stanza of the America's Cup is scheduled to begin this weekend with the showdown between Team New Zealand and Alinghi - and to reward trailerboat spectators who are properly prepared, the Safe Summer teams will be at the Westhaven boat ramp today.

Tomorrow the WaterSafe Auckland, ACC and MaiFM people are at Takapuna Beach.

Harbourmaster James McPetrie has this message for weekend cup-watchers: "Slow down and stay tuned to VHF Channel 18".

You will get race and course information and notice of speed restrictions - and there's a chance to win spot prizes for playing it safe.

It's the ARC harbour patrol's thank-you to safe boaters.

Other activity:

Saturday: Cruise to Motuihe (Weiti BC); Awaaroa Bay Race (DYC).

Saturday and Sunday: America's Cup Races 1 and 2 (RNZYS); 470, Mistral, Tornado and 49er regatta continues (GHYC); Laser Radial and masters championships (MSC); NZ Powerboat class series championships, Mangere Bridge (free admission) (MASC).

* 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.