Archive for 2017

Photo Speed Test #2

It is that time of year again. There is chaos in the parking lots, everybody seems to be fighting a cold, several major airports are snarled, and we are looking forward to seeing the family…..

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (December 19, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 70-1: Growing Big and Strong

You are standing on a rigid coaming of the FPB 70-1’s Matrix deck, looking toward the bow. Inside and out, she is coming together.  Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (December 12, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Photo Speed Test

You are looking at step one of the new and improved SetSail. This upgrade includes a much faster website connection. Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (December 11, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-3 Launches

Fpb783launch

FPB 78-3 launched, and Steve Parsons is well into Builders sea trials…  Read the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (December 5, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

SetSail Undergoing A Bit of Surgery

Howdy SetSailors,

SetSail is in the midst of re-vamping and switching servers, so as to speed up performance and generally anchor firmly in the harbor of modern-day internet technology. While this is happening, there is a delay on new content. The transition should be complete next week, with faster load times and lots of new posts.


Posted by admin  (December 1, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Cochise Goes to Washington

A9 8193

For some reason this summer, numerous friends asked us if we’d visit Washington, DC with Cochise. Go 170 miles out of our way to see a city that epitomizes waste and inefficiency? Then we thought, why not. We have lots of friends in the area, it would give us a chance to visit some of the buildings that were constructed with our concrete forming equipment (a very long time ago), and we could catch a few museums. And if we were really lucky, maybe the leaves would turn and we could finally snap a photo that has eluded us over many years. To see how this all turned out (and there is even a free lunch!), read on.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (November 13, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-1 Video: Windage Versus Stability – Now We Know

_DSC9952

The recent storm that did so much damage along the east coast of the U.S. made for an interesting evening at anchor aboard FPB 78-1 Cochise. With sustained gusts above 75 knots/88mph… Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (November 6, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Plans Are Made To Be Changed

DSC6557

We are supposed to be in downtown Annapolis, on the dock for a few days, doing chores and having a few technicians visit. But then we were uncomfortable after a phone dialogue with the marina dock master – he was a shade too casual about handling our lines in a very tight space with a building breeze – and we decided to anchor.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (October 30, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

The Cruising Mindset

Dashew Offshore 8689

We are beginning to get into the cruising mindset, at least as far as this concept applies to the two of us. This typically means sitting more and moving less. But Cochise makes this hard.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (October 22, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

So Ends This Voyage

ICochise-surfing-Jose_-18 (1)_comprsd

The Nespresso coffee machine hisses in the background as Linda makes a change-of-watch latte. The faint glow under the eastern clouds heralds another beautiful morning at sea. Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (September 29, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Red Sky At Night – Headed to Maine While We Can

_DSC5661

September 22: Red sky at night, sailor’s delight…That is probably as accurate a forecast tool right now as the supercomputers crunching away. Between Jose and Maria, the present risk factors are high.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (September 25, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-1 Video: Exploring With Simrad Forward Looking Sonar

Cochise_maskillharbor

We have been critical of the Simrad radar and chart plotting systems. But there is good news as well. The AP 70/80 autopilots are excellent, easy to program and very smart. But that was expected.  Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (September 19, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Turning Point

Cochise-at speed 11

We are at the top of Cape Breton Island. Plan is–or was–to head to Newfoundland at first light. However, hurricane Jose is giving us second thoughts.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (September 15, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-1: Time Traveler

DSC6976

Having barely completed sea trials a year ago in New Zealand, FPB 78-1 Cochise has just surpassed the 14,000NM mark.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (September 12, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Time To Travel

A9 4296 Edit copy 4

From the glorious J-class sloops, we move on to the even more compelling fishing schooners, such as Columbia (above). This Sterling Burgess design (he is the creator of Ranger, the fastest of the Js) represents a combination of speed, beauty, and purpose matched in our minds only by Donald McKay’s extreme clippers.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (September 5, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

J Boats – An Awesome Sight To See

DSC6361
It is blowing a steady 20, gusting higher. There is a sea state commensurate with the breeze, and the boats within the Newport anchorage are tugging at their moorings. The yachts offshore, following the J class racers, are plunging through the waves trying to keep up on the wind. And on the race committee boat…

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (August 24, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

J-Class Practice Race

A9 1744

A spectacle for sure, watching these Js being handled like dinghies is a real treat.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (August 22, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Maretron N2K Data System – Starting to Make Sense

DSC6138

Extensive N2K data systems, like we use in the FPBs, are costly, and take a substantial programming effort on our part. Yes, they provide a lot of information (and you need to guard against info overload), but is the cost and complexity worth it?

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (August 18, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Going…Going…

Time to go 109 of 21

We are now in full-time cruising mode…

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (August 9, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 70 Update: Interior Intentions – Expectant Owner Valerie Creighton Weighs In

Saloon Plan View_comprsd

We have recently been sent some final interior renderings for the FPB 70s. As owners of FPB 64-7 who are awaiting 70-1, we can offer a few comparisons between the two designs. Read the rest »


Posted by admin  (August 4, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Heavy Weather Tactics For Power Boats: Big Waves and Small Details

Iceberg-running-55-knts 2

FPB 97-1 Iceberg running before a stiff breeze during sea trials.

The post that follows this introduction is a chapter excerpted from the FPB 70 and 78 Owner’s Manual. Everyone who goes to sea thinks and/or worries (or should) about heavy weather, and how their vessel will handle different conditions. It doesn’t matter whether you’re on a 25,000 ton container ship, a moderate-sized sailing yacht, or one of our FPBs. We think it is better to discuss these issues openly, rather than ignore them and hope you never get caught. Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (July 12, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Born To Run: FPB 78-1 in Boat International

BI_july_feature

The July 2017 issue of Boat International magazine features a nine page article on FPB 78-1 CochiseRead the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (June 27, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 70 and 78: A Much “Kneeded” Perspective On The Next Generation Of FPBs

fpb782_matrix_conFPB 78-2 Matrix deck helm

The current America’s Cup spectacle has us entranced: unbelievable speed, maneuverability, and difficult sailing, the likes of which has never been seen before. The design and engineering required to achieve this level of performance is nothing short of astonishing.

The time to study what’s happening in Bermuda in detail is the result of this correspondent’s photography accident (night sky shooting on a dark dock), which resulted in a shattered kneecap and a forced hiatus from summer cruising… Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (June 16, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78: Dream Machine Page Updated

FPB78-Cochise-Matrix-Sunset100-2

The FPB 78 Dream Machine page is recently updated, and features multiple detailed interior and exterior photos of both FPB 78-1 and 78-2.  Read the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (June 6, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 70 Update: Expectant Owners Weigh In

FPB 70-1 with House Top On_comprsd

Proud owners of FPB 70-1, Stan and Val Creighton, have kindly agreed to periodically share their thoughts with us during the FPB 70 build process. Read on to find out what it’s like to be expecting… Read the rest »


Posted by admin  (May 26, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78 The Dream Machine: Reality – Updated May 24, 2017

FPB78-Cochise-Matrix-Sunset100-2

The Next Generation of FPBs is here, cruising even farther, faster, more comfortably and efficiently than their predecessors. With the first two FPB 78s rapidly racking up sea miles, read on to find out how, in a world full of empty claims, FPBs do what they are supposed to do.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (May 24, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB in the Press: “The Big Picture”

mby_june2017

The June issue of Motorboat & Yachting features FPB owner Peter Watson sharing his reasoning behind “Why FPB”…  Read the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (May 23, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 70: New Build Updates

news-from-the-fpb-programme-the-fpb-70-1-main

Berthon now has a fortnightly update on their website for all things FPB construction… Read the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (May 16, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Why We Cruise: Stanley Creighton’s Photography – Posted by Sarah

stan_photos_1

We spend a lot of time focusing on the importance of “where” when it comes to cruising. But we often forget to recognize perhaps the most important aspect of why we cruise — “who”. Read the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (May 10, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Spring Is Here And Flying Fast – Update On All Things FPB

flyingbird

Spring is here and with it the promise of things to be discovered, adventures to be enjoyed, and new lands to visit. Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (May 2, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB Video: FPB 78-1 Cochise Experiments With Heaving-To in the Gulf Stream

cochise_screenshot

FPB 78-1 Cochise is currently headed up to North Carolina for some boat projects. A few days ago, Steve and Linda sent in the following video… Read the rest »


Posted by admin  (April 25, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-2 Video: Come Aboard Grey Wolf II For Sea Trials

greywolf2_seatrials

We’ve just received some video of FPB 78-2 running through her paces during sea trials down in New Zealand. The owners and Circa team members aboard were lucky enough to find some light weather to enjoy: 35-45 knots of breeze and 16-18 ft (5-5.5m) waves on the bow… Read the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (April 19, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Key West – Where It Happens

DSC4793 Edit

We normally avoid tourist destinations, dislike docks, and prefer the quiet of isolated anchorages.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (April 16, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-1 Cochise: Our Dream Machine and the Conundrum of Where-To

IMG 3502

FPB 78-1 Cochise presents us with a conundrum to which there is no easy answer.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (April 4, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Ultimate Rechargeable LED Flashlight

APC 0209 2

You are looking at the current champion in the ongoing best yachting flashlight contest.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (April 3, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-1 Cochise: How The Window Film Is Working

DSC0992

We have finally installed sun-blocking window film on FPB 78-1 Cochise, and the results are excellent.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (March 29, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78: Nordhavn Owners Take a Ride and Report

MVDirona_blog_cochise

James and Jennifer Hamilton, who have circumnavigated in their Nordhavn 52 Dirona, recently took a ride aboard Cochise and wrote a fascinating report for their blog.  Read the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (March 22, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-1 Solar Energy Update

IMG 2230

FPB 78-1 Cochise has been anchored to the dock in Fort Lauderdale the past five days; we have yet to connect the shore power cord, the genset has not been used, and the batteries remain full.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (March 20, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Use Your Senses To Avoid Trouble

IMG 2269

Returning from Biscayne Bay, Florida a few days ago we were reminded that in this age of electronic navigation, command, control, and monitoring, you still need to maintain a traditional situational awareness.

The sink full of marine weeds is a classic example of why this approach is still beneficial. Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (March 18, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Samsung Galaxy 18.5″ Tablet – A Game Changer

DSC1525

You are looking at a pair of 18.5” Samsung Galaxy tablets, which we think are real game changers on the electronic front.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (March 17, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Messing About In Boats

6516295

We’ve been doing a local mini-cruise, occasioned by Spring break for our Granddaughter Emma and her friend from college Julia Stevens. It brought back just how much fun it is messing about in boats.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (March 15, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Interior Design and FPB: Thoughts From Designer Denise LaVey

FPB 781greatroom1_comprsd

We’ve worked with many interior designers over the years, but Denise is the first who truly understands what the FPB concept is all about. We think her work for us aboard FPB 78-1 Cochise speaks for itself…
Read the rest »


Posted by admin  (March 13, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB Video: Deerfoot 62 Owners Share Ride Aboard Cochise

cochise_musket

John and Deb Rogers, who own Deerfoot 2-62 Moonshadow, recently published a video of their day aboard FPB 78-1 Cochise when they were in Fiji…

Read the rest »


Posted by admin  (March 13, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 97 and FPB 64 Drone Video

Great aerial drone footage of FPB 97 and FPB 64 anchored together in New Zealand.


Posted by admin  (March 9, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Simrad Marine Electronics: The Correct Choice – Or Did We Make A Mistake? Updated 3/8/17

DSC8073

*Since we posted this article, we have had several comments from readers. Of particular interest was an email from blogger Peter Hayden (MVTanglewood.com). Scroll down to read Peter’s comments on his Simrad experience. We are curious to know your thoughts if you use Simrad, in particular their radar…Please comment and let us know.*

We’ve now had 11,000 nautical miles of concentrated experience with the Simrad Marine electronics suite aboard FPB 78-1 Cochise, and the time has come for an evaluation.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (March 8, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Jeff Merrill Joins The FPB Team – Posted by Sarah

Jeff-Steve-and-Linda

Berthon has just announced the appointment of Jeff Merrill as Ambassador for the FPB Brand on the West Coast of the USA with immediate effect. Read the rest »


Posted by Sarah.Dashew  (March 1, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 78-2 Is Heading For Water

IMG 7138

FPB 78-2 has emerged from the berthing shed at Circa.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (February 28, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

Simrad Marine Electronics: The Correct Choice – Or Did We Make A Mistake?

DSC8073

We’ve now had 11,000 nautical miles of concentrated experience with the Simrad Marine electronics suite aboard FPB 78-1 Cochise, and the time has come for an evaluation.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (February 24, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB in the Press: Soundings Feature Now Live Online

soundings_screenshot

There is a double feature now live in print and online at Soundings MagazineRead the rest »


Posted by admin  (February 16, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 70 Construction Update: A “Stan”dard Sense of Scale

stan1

This just in from Circa Marine in Whangarei–Stan Creighton, who with wife Valerie has laid claim to FPB 70-1, is down in New Zealand for various projects and to check on build progress. Read the rest »


Posted by admin  (February 14, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB in the Press: Soundings Magazine

soundings

Soundings Magazine has an extensive feature on FPB in their March 2017 issue. They’ve also put together a nice video on the FPB designs for their website… Read the rest »


Posted by admin  (February 9, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 97 Video: Running Off Before A Gale

The following video shows FPB 97 Iceberg running off before a gale off the coast in New Zealand.


Posted by admin  (February 9, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 97 Video: Sea Trials

The following is a sampling of FPB 97’s sea trialling.


Posted by admin  (February 9, 2017)    |    Comments (0)

FPB 70 Bow – Taking Metal To New Levels Of Shaping Sophistication

FPB-70-Bow-shape-1-of-31_comprsd

The FPB 70 brings together the very best of everything we’ve learned in the last 40 years, not the least of which is a very sophisticated bow shape – perhaps the most difficult plating job ever.

Read the rest »


Posted by Steve Dashew  (January 24, 2017)    |    Comments (0)