Bananas + Suitcases + Crabs = Bad Luck

No denying that sailors are a superstitious lot.  But NEVER, EVER bring bananas or suitcases on a crab boat.

How Stuff Works – Why are fishermen superstitious of bananas?

Here’s Sig from the Deadliest Catch talking about his superstitions. (sorry about the Discover Channel autoplaying their video) Continue reading Bananas + Suitcases + Crabs = Bad Luck

Rogue Waves and Sea Stories

One of the most amazing things about the sea is that despite all the technology and science that we have at our disposal, it’s great at keeping secrets and perpetuating mysteries.

It often seems that when heavy weather is involved in an at sea casualty, it’s attributed to a rogue wave. However, as this Newsy report suggests, it’s not always clear sailing when it comes to the science of rogue waves.

However, whether you believe in “rogue waves” or not, here’s a scary video from the popular television show, Deadliest Catch.

Finally, just in case you missed it, here’s a CBS news report with video taken as a wave crashes through cabin windows of the cruise ship Louis Majesty, killing 2 and injuring another dozen passengers.

Good Read -> How Big Waves Go Rogue – Wired Science – March 5, 2010

Exciting Rogue Waves – Physics / American Physical Sociey – October 19, 2009

Rogue Wave (Wikipedia)

At Sea Reality TV

Sunday VOW’s (Videos of the Week)

There’s currently no shortage of good maritime shows on television. Here’s three that float my boat.

Deadliest Catch

Last year I posted about the Deadliest Catch here and here. This year they have added regular behind the scenes video-casts (thru iTunes) that are pretty interesting. The website is also worth a visit. Hey, these guys put their lives on the line so that you can eat fancy seafood; the least you can do is watch! (Frequently on the Discovery Channel)

And you think your work environment is challenging.

America’s Port

Finally, a show the tells the story about why America’s maritime industries remain so important today. “America’s Port provides an unblinking view of this vibrant and colorful nerve center for global trade — the Port of Los Angeles. Get an inside look at this massive complex and the intrepid individuals charged with keeping it running smoothly and securely 365 days a year. It’s a dynamic and dangerous 24/7 operation.” (Mondays at 10PM on National Geographic Channel)

CARRIER

Update: check the latest post about Episodes I and II

The PBS series CARRIER: Life aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz starts tonight and if these clips are any indication, it looks great! Make sure that you visit the website as well and take a tour the ship and check out the great “making of” diaries and videos. (Starting Sundays, April 28th and running consecutive nights through May 1st; 9 – 11 PM on PBS; find your local listing here)

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