One of the tasks required in the early phases of this book that I am writing required developing a definition of the word "passagemaker." Given that the word trawler no longer has any definitive meeting thanks to long abuse by the Madison Avenue types, the term passagemaker is the most concise term left to us. Here's my definition: ---------- "A passagemaker is a safe and comfortable owner-operated long-distance capable cruising powerboat." By the term "safe" we mean that the vessel is sufficiently well designed and constructed not to endanger the lives of its occupants when prudently operated. By "comfortable" we refer to a vessel that provides an environment that is pleasant and agreeable. By "owner-operated" we mean specifically that the vessel is operated and largely maintained by the owner, the owner and his or her spouse and possibly also immediate family members and friends. "Long distance capable" refers to the vessel having a minimum of a 2500 nautical mile cruising range without refueling and on engine power alone. A "cruising powerboat" means an engine-driven vessel operated for pleasure. As a practical matter passagemakers could also be defined as being from 35' to 90' in size and as vessels that can also be operated by a maximum of three persons. A 35-footer is the smallest practical vessel size for transoceanic crossings and 90' is arguably the largest vessel practical for owner operation. -------------- Any thoughts or comments? Bruce -- ======================================================================= L. Bruce Jones U.S. SUBMARINES, INC. President POSEIDON UNDERSEA RESORTS LLC Tel: 208/687-9057 Fax: 208/441-7478 E-mail: bruce@ussubmarines.com http://ussubs.com http://poseidonresorts.com "Design, engineering and construction of submarines and submersibles" "Submarine related consulting, sales and operations." =======================================================================