Why Is a Yacht Called a "She"?

A ship is called a "she" because there is always a great deal of bustle around her; there is usually a gang of men about, she has a waist and stays; it takes a lot of paint to keep her good looking; it is not the initial expense that breaks you, it is the upkeep; she can be all decked out; it takes an experienced man (or a woman who understands her needs!!!) to handle her correctly; and without a man at the helm, she is absolutely uncontrollable. She shows her topsides, hides her bottom and when coming into port, always heads for the buoys!"

According to Yarns of the Sea, Legends, Myths, and Superstitions: Although women were considered to bring bad luck at sea, mariners always use the pronoun "she" when referring to their ships. Whether its proper name is masculine, or whether it is a man o'war, a battleship, or a nuclear submarine, a ship is always referred to as "she."

This old tradition is thought to stem from the fact that in the Romance languages, the word for "ship" is always in the feminine. For this reason, Mediterranean sailors always referred to their ship as "she", and the practice was adopted over the centuries by their English-speaking counterparts.

One source suggests that a ship "was nearer and dearer to the sailor than anyone except his mother." What better reason to call his ship "she"?

To be a success at sea, you must collaborate with your vessel. If you call her "it", how friendly a relationship are you going to have? "She" seems to acknowledge the intimate relationship you need in order to address the vulnerability you have to the mercy of the ocean and its tempers.

Learn more: threemoonsyacht.net

No One Hurt at Fire on Necker Island

While Three Moons yacht sat safely last night in the boat yard in Virgin Gorda, Hurricane Irene caused a major fire at Sir Richard Branson's beautiful Necker Island nearby. Winds up to 90mph howled during the storm. A big strike of lightening hit the main house around 4am on August 22nd. This "Great House" was built in 1982.

Richard's son Sam, 25, and nephew Jack rushed to the house and helped get everyone out. Locals have reported that Richard & wife Joan were on the island, but were staying in another house on the property when the fire broke out.

Several UK newspapers have reported: "It is understood that those in the 'Great House' may have included Richard & Joan's daughter Holly, 29, who is due to marry shipbroker Freddie Andrews on Necker Island in December.

Kate Winslet has received accolades for helping carry Richard's 90 year mother out of the main house to safety. Later Kate was quoted by Richard as saying, "she was wondering when a Director was going to shout CUT!". She and her children were staying on the island during the storm.

We certainly feel deep sadness that the Branson family lost "thousands of photographs and his ever famous notebooks" which were located in his office, based in the main house. But all his family, co-workers, friends & guests are well - "which in the end is all that really matters".  

Our thoughts and positive wishes are with them. We know the flag will proudly fly from the main house again as it does in our photo below made a couple of months ago.

We wish them well during this tough time.