So far my first week at Mystic Seaport has been exciting. I started off the week interpreting around the Museum, and getting an introduction to Ships Plans in the Collections and Research Center. While working in Interpretation I have gotten the chance to help out at the Discovery Barn, the Children’s Museum, the Boathouse, and many other places.
While working on ships plans I have seen, and begun to learn about, the many designs also known as “lines” that are held at the Museum. In addition, I have seen many of the other key elements in yacht design such as the half hulls, and many different models based off influential ship designs.
My current project is to research the lines of some boats that I am interested in and possibly recreate them in my own sketch, adding elements that could make the boat faster, or more efficient. While doing this I will have to consider many different elements including but not limited to, the cost, efficiency of certain parts, and obviously shape of the hull.
Learning about ships plans has given me the chance to get an inside look on how some of my favorite boats are designed, and it has given me a further appreciation for the hard work and dedication that naval architects put into each one of their projects.
When I am not working I have spent most of my time enjoying the nearby ocean. On my time off I have gone surfing almost every day, and I have gone fishing in the nearby inlets. This weekend is The WoodenBoat Show, one of the busiest weekends at Mystic Seaport! After this I will be heading home for the Fourth, and returning on July 5 to resume my work.
Nice post Alby. In particular, I liked reading about how you are beginning to see trends in ship lines and how naval architects balance speed with stability, displacement, etc. Check out some Joel White designs (particularly during the WoodenBoat show) and let me know what you think of his balance of elegance and simplicity…