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The NASCAR Yacht Club

• By Dudley Dawson
• Updated: October 4, 2007

Felix Sabates’ Trinity, /Big Easy/.

“At last, a yacht club for the rest of us,” I thought, “where boats are christened with longneck Buds and the chef can prepare a proper chitlin cocktail.” But my vision, it seems, was more than a bit awry. My every call, every inquiry, was greeted first by a chuckle, and then by a quieter and slightly worried, “Where’d you hear about the NASCAR Yacht Club?” Bit by bit, the pieces of the puzzle came together.

First the background. Last year, auto racing surpassed football to take first place as America’s favorite spectator sport. By far the most popular segment of that market is stock-car racing, the roots of which were planted decades ago in the transport of moonshine whiskey throughout Appalachia, often at high speed in souped-up sedans with the law in hot pursuit. The racing eventually moved off-highway to oval tracks, but modified family cars were still the vehicle of choice. Richard Petty, retired but still The King, recalls catching the bus back home with his parents and siblings after his father totaled their car at the track.

Stock-car racing, with NASCAR as its sanctioning body, is now big business with sophisticated professional management, yet its image as an excuse for country folk to get wild on a Sunday afternoon persists. Comedian Jeff Foxworthy has firmly reinforced the stereotype with his observation: “You might be a redneck if you think the last four words of the national anthem are ‘Gentlemen, start your engines!'”

Thus, it comes as something of a surprise to learn that, yes, there really is a NASCAR Yacht Club, and furthermore, it is arguably the world’s most exclusive. The club is quite small; its size kept in check by the requirements for consideration as a member: You must have a yacht, and you must be not only an active NASCAR driver or team owner, but one acceptable to the current members. Some rivalries, it seems, extend beyond the track.

Unlike other ultra-exclusive yacht clubs, such as the New York, St. Francis or Costa Smerelda clubs, the NASCAR Yacht Club has no clubhouse, no staff, not even a phone number or a fixed address. That made tracking down details a bit of a challenge, but my location in North Carolina proved an asset.

The heart of NASCAR country, North Carolina is home to many of the owners and drivers, including Felix Sabates. Sabates is a multi-team co-owner along with Chip Ganassi. He’s also an avid yachtsman and one of the owners of custom yacht builder Trinity Yachts in New Orleans. First came the laugh, then the amiable Sabates filled in a few of the key details, the most important being confirmation of the club’s shadowy existence.

With a keen interest in yachting and considerable involvement in NASCAR, Sabates co-founded the NASCAR Yacht Club in 1987 along with NASCAR’s patriarch, William “Bill Jr.” France, who shares Sabates’ interest in yachting from his home base in Daytona Beach, Fla. Sabates currently owns the 126-foot, Trinity-built Big Easy (Yachting, December 2001) and previously cruised on a series of larger yachts all named Victory Lane . The France family fleet-NASCAR is now headed by Bill Jr.’s son Brian-includes two custom superyachts, each named Hi Banx , and a number of lesser but not insignificant vessels.

After nearly two decades of existence, the club’s administration remains incredibly simple. There are no dues and democracy rules. In Sabates’ words, “If you have a boat, you get to vote.” One of the few items that come up for a decision each year is the location of the club’s annual rendezvous. Typically held around the Fourth of July-the week after the Pepsi 400, still referred to as the Firecracker 400 by many-the yachts travel from Daytona Beach to “somewhere in the islands.” This summer’s event reportedly was held at Marsh Harbor and included about 40 people, but the exact venue and activities vary from year to year and are closely guarded secrets.

Sabates did share a few stories with me, including one about the late great #3, “The Intimidator,” Dale Earnhardt Sr., and suggested, “Why don’t you call your old boss and get his side of it?” By “old boss,” he meant Alton Herndon, former president of Hatteras Yachts, who quickly responded to my questions with a query of his own: “Who’ve you been talking to? Felix?”

It seems the club wanted to do some fishing during its get-together but was short on fishing boats. Sabates had bought a couple of Hatteras yachts along the way, as had some other club members, so an invitation was issued to Herndon, conditional on his bringing Hatterascal , the company’s tournament convertible. Earnhardt, a yachting novice at that point, boarded the multi-million dollar Hatterascal as the fleet prepared to depart the marina and, according to Sabates, “intimidated” Herndon out of the helm seat. After ascertaining what each lever did, he shoved the throttles forward and, without hesitation, headed for the fishing grounds at top speed, as if the prize was to be awarded for arriving first, not for returning with the biggest fish.

Earnhardt drove all day and brought Hatterascal back for a flawless docking. Herndon confirms most of the story, but says Earnhardt was quite polite, his “Intimidator” persona on hold-mostly-and repeated the consensus on #3: “If it has a steering wheel, he can drive it.” Ron Locke, longtime Hatteras company captain, says it took Earnhardt some time under his tutelage to become really proficient-“about ten minutes, as I recall.”

A number of peripheral players-after being assured that their names would not be mentioned-divulged stories of their own. Like any good club, there are traditions to maintain, such as sending a rookie captain off each year in search of a Harbor Island pig for the greased pig chase to be held on the teak decks of his yacht. The horrified captain’s question is the same every year-“But who’s going to pay for the damage?”-and brings gales of laughter and a “welcome to the club” slap on the back from the veterans.

One captain happily recalled a series of personal watercraft races that were every bit as hotly contested as any duel on the track. When Roger Penske’s PWC sucked up a slug of sand and stalled, he quickly drafted a pit crew, personally tore the waterjet down and returned to the race. “Can you imagine,” asked the captain, “being Roger Penske’s tool man?”

In addition to votes on the club’s rendezvous plans, there are also votes on other matters of importance. One such decision was making Michael Waltrip an honorary member, not because he’s such a nice guy -which they all agree he is-but because his wife, Buffy, “is so good-looking.”

Yes, the scent of high-octane testosterone hangs as heavy over the yacht club as it does over any NASCAR track, but this is not Augusta National. The women can take care of themselves just fine, thank you very much. At one gathering, the men boarded a few of the boats for a day of competitive fishing, “no women allowed.” The ladies simply waited until the men were a mile out, commandeered the remaining boats and, at the end of the day, had boated more fish than the men. The tournament is now coed.

The summer rendezvous is usually a relaxing time of fun and games, but it has also served as the catalyst for critical business. Following the death of a pit-crew member at a race one year, members drafted new safety rules while at a gathering in Bimini. Another time, Tony George joined the group to meet with Bill France and others, discuss the formation of the Indy Racing League (IRL) and bring NASCAR racing to the Brickyard.

While the July gathering is the highlight of the club’s calendar, coming as it does in the middle of the racing season when tensions are high and a diversion is most welcome, it is by no means the only time the boys get together. Any NASCAR race held near water is reason enough for several of the yachts to show up-the Ford 400, for instance, in Homestead next month. Another best bet for fans is February’s season-opening Speedweeks in Daytona Beach.

I stopped off in Daytona twice last February, once en route to the Miami International Boat Show and once returning, to check out the scene before and during the Daytona 500 (yes, I love this job…). With a few hints from my sources on where to look, I found the mother lode, and the father lode, too.

Daytona Marina and Boat Works, on the south end of town, is a historic site with a race history of its own. The four engine TX-41, designed by Jack Hargrave, was built here in 1964 by Bob Sherbert and held the Miami-New York offshore speed record for ten years. Today the basin holds no fewer than six NASCAR superyachts-including Sabates’ 126-foot Big Easy and Jeff Gordon’s 106-foot 24 Karat -and one dedicated race fan in his 33-foot cruiser, living the dream of a lifetime. Transient slips are usually available to the general public, according to Harbormaster Gary Roberts, but you need to book early (386 252-6421). If you’re not coming to town afloat but still want to do a little NASCAR yacht spotting, reserve a waterside table at the adjoining Chart House Restaurant; again, book early (386 255-9022).

At the other end of town, in the shadow of the Seabreeze Boulevard Bridge, is Caribbean Jack’s Restaurant and Marina (386 523-3000, www.caribbeanjacks.com), recently rebuilt and with new face dockage for larger yachts. It was here I spotted Detroit Eagle , Roger Penske’s 153-foot, 13,000 hp Feadship. From the marina, I could also see Hi Banx secure in France’s private compound just to the north.

Midway between the two, on South Beach Street, is the restored heart of town that is home to numerous shopping and dining establishments, as well as the Halifax Historical Museum (386 255-6976, www.halifaxhistorical.org). The museum is small but interesting, with a fabulous collection of race memorabilia that will captivate fans.

If you decide to go on your own search for the elusive NASCAR Yacht Club, here are a few clues that may help. Yachts with checkered flags, whether as part of the boat’s name or logo, or flying from the mast, are good bets. So are race-related boat names, such as Sunday Money , Checkered Passion and Shifting Gears . And a sure sign that you’ve found the place is the the Sabates-designed club uniform-a T-shirt with a stylized boat sporting four wheels and a checkered flag.

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VICTORY LANE Hatteras | From US$ 50,000/wk

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DADDY'S DREAM | From EUR€ 50,000/wk

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VICTORY LANE Hatteras | From US$ 50,000 /wk

Measuring 30.48m (100’), luxury charter yacht VICTORY LANE (previously known as Centodue, Taima, Emily, was built in 2003 by Hatteras and refitted in 2021. Accommodation on board spreads over 4 cabins for up to 8 guests, while there are additional cabins for the crew of 3.

NOTABLE FEATURES OF VICTORY LANE: ~Refitted in 2021 ~Fresh and timeless interiors ~Flybridge wet bar ~Top notch entertainment systems ~Draft of just 2m/6.6ft to access shallow waterways ~Air conditioning ~Wi-Fi

Guests can dine alfresco on the main deck aft, which is laid out with a curving sofa, oval table and movable chairs to make a comfortable setting for all guests. Two stairways join to the lower deck swim platform, which has enough room for sunbathing and lounging beside the water. Side walkways along the main deck connect to the foredeck, where there is a loveseat for guests to unwind in the sunshine in peace.

A starboard stairway from the main deck aft goes to the flybridge, where sun loungers are placed along the stern and amidships in the sunshine is a sofa, two armchairs and side tables. The area can be covered with a canvas shade for all-day use. The semi-enclosed forward section is furnished with an L-shaped sofa and large table on both sides, with a widescreen TV to port. A wet bar is forward, separating the guest area from the helm controls.

The lower deck hosts the guest and crew accommodation, with the forward section of the main deck providing a spacious galley with an L-shaped forward sofa, dining table and widescreen TV. The formal dining area and main salon are combined into one large social space, the former seating up to eight guests around a circular table for intimate meals. The salon places a corner sofa, armchair and coffee table to starboard, with a widescreen TV to port.

VICTORY LANE Specifications

The raised pilothouse is above, through which guests have access to the flybridge.

A pair of MTU M91 engines of 1,800 HP grant a top speed of 23 knots, a cruising speed of 16 knots and a range of 820 nautical miles.

Yacht Charter Accommodation

The accommodation sleeps a maximum of 8 guests over 4 en-suite cabins: 1 Master suite, 1 VIP stateroom and 2 double cabins convertible to twins. ~ The Master suite is full beam and comes with a king-sized bed, widescreen TV, large wardrobe and his-and-hers entrances to the bathroom with both sides having a toilet and sink, sharing a spacious central shower with a bench. ~ The VIP stateroom is forward on the lower deck and is fitted with a queen-sized bed, widescreen TV, large wardrobe and an en-suite bathroom with a sink, toilet and shower. ~ The double cabins are convertible to twins, and both have two single beds that make a queen-sized bed when placed together, and a widescreen TV, ample storage and an en-suite bathroom with a sink, toilet and shower. ~ The expert crew of 3 will ensure that all guests onboard are well taken care of throughout their stay.

Charter Amenities and Extras

~ 25' Outrage Tender ~ 2 x Jet skis ~ Standup Paddleboard ~ Floating Mat ~ Snorkel Gear ~ Fishing Gear ~ Swim Plarform

Charter Yacht Disclaimer

This document is not contractual. The yacht charters and their particulars displayed in the results above are displayed in good faith and whilst believed to be correct are not guaranteed. CharterWorld Limited does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information and/or images displayed. All information is subject to change without notice and is without warrantee. A professional CharterWorld yacht charter consultant will discuss each charter during your charter selection process. Starting prices are shown in a range of currencies for a one-week charter, unless otherwise marked. Exact pricing and other details will be confirmed on the particular charter contract. Just follow the "reserve this yacht charter" link for your chosen yacht charter or contact us and someone from the CharterWorld team will be in touch shortly.

VICTORY LANE Enquiry

"A Hatteras Yacht does not aspire to offer a luxury. That is simply where we begin. It is beyond that point – and within the experience each voyage offers – that you begin to understand the true Hatteras difference. That difference, for over half a century, has allowed Hatteras to stand as the benchmark of quality and innovation to which all others aspire." - Hatteras Yachts

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Victory Lane

Motor Yacht

Victory Lane is a custom motor yacht launched in 1988 by Broward Marine, in the United States and most recently refitted in 2015.

Victory Lane measures 37.80 metres in length and has a beam of 6.40 feet.

Performance and Capabilities

Victory Lane has a top speed of 18.00 knots and a cruising speed of 13.00 knots. .

Accommodation

Victory Lane accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 cabins. She also houses room for up to 6 crew members.

Other Specifications

Victory Lane flies the flag of the USA.

• Yacht Builder Broward Marine No profile available

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VICTORY LANE, YACHT FOR CHARTER

INQUIRE ABOUT VICTORY LANE

‘Victory Lane’ is a 124.02ft  /37.8m  motor yacht, custom built in 1988 by Broward and last refitted in 2015. The vessel was previously named Victory Lane, and her interior and exterior have been designed by Broward.

Victory Lane’s spacious interior layout sleeps up to 8 guests in 4 rooms, including a master suite, 2 double cabins and 1 twin cabin. She is easily capable of carrying up to 6 crew members onboard to ensure you and your guests get the most out of your luxury charter vacation, making full use of all the amenities and leisure facilities onboard this vessel.

Her impressive leisure and entertainment facilities make her perfect for entertaining friends and family on your charter vacation. There’s space for enjoying lavish lunches, delicious dinners on deck, or simply lounging in the sunshine.

She is built with an aluminium hull and aluminium superstructure, and has a cruising speed of 13 knots, a maximum speed of 18 knots and a range of 1,500nm from 30,280litre fuel tanks.

This impressive yacht comes complete with a modern stabilization system to reduce roll motion even during rough seas, and the yacht also has ‘at anchor stabilizers’ to keep things smooth even at anchor/zero speed.

A gym onboard, equipped with the latest exercise equipment, means you’ll never miss a work out. Air conditioning keeps conditions comfortable throughout the cabins, even on the hottest of days or nights.

A portfolio of toys onboard include 2 x 3 seat Yamaha FX Waverunners, 4 x Paddleboards, Water-Skis, Wake Boards, Kneeboards, Inflatable Water Toys, Snorkelling Equipment, and Fishing Equipment, perfect for entertaining guests of all ages.

Victory Lane FEATURES & PRICING

• AIR CONDITIONING • FISHING • GYM • INFLATABLES • KNEEBOARD • PADDLEBOARD • SNORKELING • STABILIZERS • WAKEBOARD • WATER SKI • WAVERIDER • WI FI

CHARTER RATES

1 x 28.97ft /8.83m Intrepid Tender with 2 x Yamaha 250 HP engines 1 x 17.98ft /5.48m Novurania RIB Yamaha 90 HP engine

2 x 3 seat Yamaha FX Waverunners 4 x Paddleboards Water-Skis Wake Boards Kneeboards Inflatable water toys Snorkelling Equipment Fishing Equipment

Victory Lane Is Available at These Locations

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Victory Lane

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VICTORY LANE 100' | Hatteras | 2003

VICTORY LANE recently had over a $1M Refit in 2021 to include hull paint job, interior refit throughout, new furnishings, wood flooring & soft goods throughout, new teak on aft deck and swim platform, updated electronics & A/V package, plus more!   Accommodations for up to eight guests, she features four spacious staterooms to include a full beam King master and (3) Queen staterooms, all with private baths and entertainment centers. The vessel offers generous open main salon complete with a formal dining table and plenty of seating. Large windows fill all her main spaces with light. Outside areas include the vast aft deck which has a dining table for up to (10) guests.

The flybridge has a custom hardtop and has been tailored to social use with ample custom lighting, al fresco dining and seating areas, and wet bar. The forward deck incorporates a seating area that delivers a private space with unbeatable views.  An impressively big swim platform serves as the base for all water activities.

Powered by DDC/MTU 16V-2000 main engines, she cruises at 20 knots with top speeds of 23 knots.  She features twin Onan 45KW Generators, Naiad Stabilizers, bow thruster, twin Onan 45KW Generators, twin watermakers, etc!

• LENGTH 100'
• BUILDER Hatteras
• MODEL Raised Pilothouse
• YEAR BUILT 2003 / 2021 (Refit)
• HULL Fiberglass
• ENGINES Twin MTU 16V-2000's
• LOCATION Miami Beach, FL
• CENTRAL AGENT Bob Cury

About This Listing

Office: 954-525-7484 Cell: 954-980-3451 Email: [email protected]

Robert J Cury

Robert J. Cury opened the doors of RJC Yacht Sales and Charter in 1997 after a highly successful career at Broward Marine as Director of Sales and spent five years at Hatteras of Lauderdale as Sales Manager.

As principle of RJC Yacht Sales and Charter, Bob brings over 30 years of experience in the yachting business to his clients. His cumulative background in design, brokerage and new construction allows him to specialize in the sale of larger, late-model pedigree motor yachts and sport fishermen and provides you with a comprehensive knowledge of both the existing yacht market as well as new construction.

Whether marketing your yacht for sale or selecting a suitable yacht for purchase, Bob offers the highest level of knowledge, professionalism and honesty in an effort to initiate and maintain long-term relationships.

Office: 954-525-7484 Cell: 954-261-5250 Email: [email protected]

David Wiest

David Wiest has been an associate of RJC Yacht Sales and Charter since 1999, specializing in the sale of late model Motoryachts and Sportfisherman.

David began his career in yachting in the early 1990's as a Corporate Controller and CFO with The Allied Marine Group. In 1994, David joined Broward Marine as CFO where he met Robert Cury and together worked as the senior management team. In 1999, David joined Bob at RJC Yacht Sales as a broker primarilyrepresenting larger, late model Motoryachts and Tri-Deck Motoryachts.

During his successful career, David has been fortunate to sell many vessels including his first sale of the 1997 115' Broward MY, C-VENTURE, the 132' Amels TDMY, MONTE CARLO, the 130' Northern Marine TDMY, MAGIC, the 106' Lazzara MY, 24 KARAT, 122' Burger TDMY, LADY GAYLE MARINE, the 105' Azimut MY, LADY CAROLE, the 150' Richmond TDMY, STATUS QUO and recently, the 150' Richmond TDMY, EXCELLENCE.

Office: 954-525-7484 Cell: 954-658-2693 Email: [email protected]

Raymond Young

Raymond Young joined Hatteras of Lauderdale after graduating from University of Tampa, Florida. He has captained yachts extensively on the Pacific and Atlantic oceans including the Western Mediterranean. He currently holds a 1600 / 3000 Ton USCG Master License, as well as a MCA CLASS IV license.

Raymond has been involved with the construction of several large yachts including a custom 82' Hatteras, 112' Broward, 98' Westship, along with a 124', 141' and 157' Christensen. He managed each project from contract, to delivery, to captaining.

Over the past 20 years, Raymond has developed a wealth of knowledge from building, managing and running yachts. Raymond has established close relationships with shipyards, builders, designers, architects, yacht captains, and brokerage houses. As your yacht broker, Raymond can offer his experience and knowledge, assuring you a positive yachting experience.

Office: 954-525-7484 Cell: 954-214-1967 Email: [email protected]

Michael Strassel

Mike's 34 years of marine expertise has resulted in the sale and management of thousands of production Yachts from Hatteras, Viking, Bertram, Tiara, Princess, Azimut, Ferretti and Benetti. Utilizing this experience to begin the next phase of his yacht sales career by joining, RJC Yacht Sales, as a broker and member of their experienced yacht sales team. Mike is well qualified to assist with every phase of purchase and ownership for yachts of all sizes and pedigree. His experience in delivering and managing a wide variety of medium to large production, semi-custom yachts is an ideal collaboration with the experience team at RJC Yachts. Mike will assist in every aspect of purchase, sale and ownership for vessels of every size, make and pedigree.

Office: 954-525-3886 --> Email: [email protected]

Nicole Caulfield

Nicole Caulfield serves as the director of charter marketing & sales for RJC Yacht Sales and Charter overseeing sales, marketing, client relations, scheduling, and charter management.

Prior to joining RJC Yacht Sales and Charter, Nicole worked on board yachts as a crew member for nearly ten years. She travelled throughout the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Great Lakes, the US East Coast, Pacific Northwest, and Eastern and Western Canada.

Nicole still enjoys yachting and the ocean and spends much of her free time in the Bahamas with her husband who is a yacht captain and their two sons.

Office: 954-525-7484 --> Email: [email protected]

Kelli Field

Kelli Field has been in the yachting industry for twenty years and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to RJC Yacht Sales daily. Kelli and Bob began working together at Broward Yacht Sales where she was a yacht listing secretary.

In 1997, Kelli joined Bob when he started RJC Yacht Sales and Charter. Kelli has been an integral part of the RJC office and the face of the Ft. Lauderdale and Miami International Boat Shows.

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CLAIRE yacht NOT for charter*

30.48m  /  100' | hatteras | 2003 / 2023.

Owner & Guests

Cabin Configuration

• 2 Double/Twin
• Previous Yacht

Special Features:

• Full-beam master cabin with dressing room and his/her en suite
• Recent refit in 2023
• Interior design from Hargrave
• Sleeps 8 overnight
• 7.62m/25' Tender

The 30.48m/100' motor yacht 'Claire' (ex. Centodue) was built by Hatteras in the United States at their New Bern, NC shipyard. Her interior is styled by American designer design house Hargrave and she was completed in 2003. This luxury vessel's exterior design is the work of Hargrave and she was last refitted in 2023.

Guest Accommodation

Claire has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 8 guests in 4 suites comprising one VIP cabin and two cabins that can operate as twins or doubles. The supremely spacious full beam master suite features extensive storage space provided by the dressing room benefits from a his and her bathroom. She is also capable of carrying up to 4 crew onboard to ensure a relaxed luxury yacht experience.

Onboard Comfort & Entertainment

Her features include WiFi and air conditioning.

Range & Performance

Built with a GRP hull and GRP superstructure, with teak decks, she benefits from a semi-displacement hull to provide exceptional seakeeping and impressive speeds. Powered by twin diesel MTU (16V2000M91) 1,800hp engines, she comfortably cruises at 16 knots, reaches a maximum speed of 23 knots. Claire features at-anchor stabilizers providing exceptional comfort levels. Her water tanks store around 3,180 Litres of fresh water.

*Charter Claire Motor Yacht

Motor yacht Claire is currently not believed to be available for private Charter. To view similar yachts for charter , or contact your Yacht Charter Broker for information about renting a luxury charter yacht.

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'Yacht Charter Fleet' is a free information service, if your yacht is available for charter please contact us with details and photos and we will update our records.

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West Palm Beach, Florida

21st - 24th Mar 2024

Florida's East Coast beckons as the highly anticipated Palm Beach Boat Show returns for another glistening edition from 21-24 March at downtown West Palm Beach.

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Moscow's building boom leaves little room for history

MOSCOW -- Built in the late 1920s, the Narkomfin apartment building was designed as the perfect environment for new Soviet Man. A monument to the utopian communist ideals that spilled forth after the Bolshevik revolution , the six-story complex behind the US Embassy was a place where bourgeois decadence was expected to give way to collective existence. Today this decaying, forgotten masterpiece of modernist architecture faces two possible futures: collapse, or conversion into a hotel. As the construction industry in Russia's capital surfs a tide of petro-dollars, preservationists are warning the city's unique architectural heritage is under threat. Where the wrecking ball misses, neglect and botched restorations are doing equal damage. Since the breakup of the Soviet Union, an estimated 400 historic monuments, some dating to the 17th century, have been destroyed. The boom in construction is fueled by an increasingly muscular Russian economy. High oil prices mean cash is pouring in to state coffers and wages are rising, prompting demand for new stores and housing. Shopping malls are mushrooming across the city, while new skyscrapers cast shadows over entire neighborhoods. ''In every other Russian city, it's the absence of money that is destroying historic buildings," said Aleksei Komech, director of the State Arts Research Institute. ''In Moscow, it's the abundance of it." Critics say Moscow's city authorities are deeply enmeshed with building companies in a multibillion-dollar industry that has little regard for preservation. Since 1996, the area of new housing being constructed every year has increased by 60 percent, but a strong framework of laws to protect endangered monuments is frequently ignored because of corruption. Historical groups such as the Moscow Architecture Preservation Society and Moskva, Kotoroy Net (''The Moscow That Is No More") say the trail of destruction leads to Mayor Yuri Luzhkov, who has expressed disdain for ''idiots for whom the preservation of old bricks is an aim in itself" and whose wife owns a construction business valued at more than $1 billion. Earlier this month, architecture preservationists from across the world gathered in Moscow for the Heritage at Risk conference, calling on Luzhkov and President Vladimir Putin to stem the demolition. Most threatened are avant-garde works from the early 20th-century such as the Narkomfin complex, famed architect Konstantin Melnikov's house-studio, and a series of workers' clubs. These buildings came from a brief flowering of vernacular architecture after the Bolsheviks' victory in the revolution and the civil war in the early 1920s, part of a wider movement to synchronize art with life. ''It was a time of incredibly bold ideas that were unique to Russia," said John Stubbs of the New York-based World Monuments Fund, who attended the heritage conference. Architects were harnessed to create houses fit for a domestic utopia where families would live in harmony in communal dormitories, sharing all possessions. Nutritionists and child-care specialists would take care of chores while citizens were molded into a single, slick machine. Special rooms were even designated for sexual liaisons The Narkomfin building was designed with such a lifestyle in mind. A ''semi-collectivized housing complex," it was constructed between 1928 and 1930 by the architect Moisei Ginzburg as a ''transitional" living space for employees of the Soviet Ministry of Finance. Ginzburg stopped short of creating the full communal experience, but minimized kitchen areas and encouraged families to share facilities in a pavilion with a kindergarten (never finished), gymnasium, and canteen linked to the block of 56 apartments by a raised walkway. Split-level apartments provided one common sleeping space per family and stoves were designed to reheat food prepared by specialists. Its early occupants complained of damp conditions and quickly tired of the communal existence, making alterations to their apartments and pleading for larger kitchens. But the building was viewed as a masterpiece. Now, after years of neglect, Narkomfin's walls of compacted reed blocks are disintegrating, and the strips of horizontal windows on its once seamless facade are choked with weeds. Luzhkov announced this month that an investor had been found to restore the building, but doubts remain that a commercial deal will ensure its survival. On recent day, Valentin Survov ran a hand over the crumbling blocks that make up the walls of his home in the complex. ''Another few years and this place is going to fall apart," said Survov, 26, a disc jockey, who has lived in the building since childhood. ''Either that, or they'll tear it down." He added, ''It's such a valuable place historically, it should really be turned into a museum." The future of another avant-garde masterpiece also hangs in the balance. The Melnikov house-studio is a magical construction on a secluded lane in central Moscow. It was built by the celebrated architect Konstantin Melnikov in 1927 in the form of two interlocking cylinders studded with rhomboid windows. Melnikov lived in the house -- one of the few private abodes allowed during the Soviet era -- with his family, and after his death it was left in the hands of his son, Viktor, a painter who was its faithful guardian all his life. When Viktor Melnikov died in February at 91, his half-share in the house was donated to the state to create a museum. However, a private investor snapped up the other half from a relative, and what happens next is unclear. Despite the criticism, some say the rash of new construction is not all doom and gloom. Last week, British architect Norman Foster made a visit to promote the nearly 2,000-foot tower that his partnership will build as part of Moscow City -- a huge development on the banks of the Moscow river, 3 miles from the Kremlin. Lord Foster, a lifetime member of the House of Lords, was met with adulation by the art world glitterati as he opened an exhibition dedicated to his work at the Pushkin Fine Arts Museum. He said he was unaware of any specific cases of historic buildings in the city being neglected or knocked down, adding: ''It's in the nature of any city that when it regenerates itself, it destroys old buildings to create new ones." Asked whether he had qualms about being part of the construction boom, Lord Foster replied: ''If I look at the nature of the projects that we have here in Russia -- if that is fueled by the regeneration and the energy and the drive of Moscow and St. Petersburg, and you call that a boom and you ask me how I feel about being part of it, I'm really, really excited." By Tom Parfitt, Globe Correspondent

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1 Travel Tips The do's and don'ts 2 Travelling to Moscow Getting to your destination 3 Getting around Explore like a local 4 Money Matters You know it's important 5 Language Don't break your tongue 6 Info about Moscow & Russia History and geography

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VICTORY LANE

VICTORY LANE is a 31.42 m Motor Yacht, built in China by IAG Yachts and delivered in 2013. She is one of 2 IAG 100 models.

Her top speed is 25.0 kn and her cruising speed is 18.0 kn and her power comes from two MTU diesel engines. She can accommodate up to 8 guests in 4 staterooms, with 5 crew members waiting on their every need. She has a 6.8 m beam.

She was designed by YD&AS , who also completed the naval architecture and designed the interior. YD&AS has designed 4 yachts, created the naval architecture for 4 yachts, and designed the interior of 4 yachts for yachts above 24 metres.

VICTORY LANE is one of 2070 motor yachts in the 30-35m size range, and, compared to similarly sized motor yachts, her top speed is 1.22 kn above the average.

VICTORY LANE is currently sailing under the United States of America flag, the most popular flag state for superyachts with a total of 1615 yachts registered. She is known to be an active superyacht and has most recently been spotted cruising near Bahamas. For more information regarding VICTORY LANE's movements, find out more about BOAT Pro AIS .

Specifications

• Name: VICTORY LANE
• Previous Names: FREEDOM
• Yacht Type: Motor Yacht
• Model: IAG 100
• Builder: IAG Yachts
• Naval Architect: YD&AS
• Exterior Designer: YD&AS
• Interior Designer: YD&AS

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Man freed, another trapped under rocks after collapse at Ballarat goldmine in Victoria

25 more workers have been brought to the surface after being stranded in an underground safety pod after the rockfall at the mine in Indicator Lane in Mount Clear

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One man has been freed and another remains trapped after a mine collapse on the outskirts of Ballarat in Victoria’s goldfields.

The pair were pinned by fallen rocks at the Mount Clear mine on Wednesday afternoon.

A further 25 workers have been brought to the surface after being stranded underground in a safety pod.

Police and paramedics managed to stabilise and extract one of the men.

He was treated for lower body injuries and airlifted to hospital in a serious condition.

Emergency crews were working to free the second person, as dozens of other workers took refuge in a safety pod.

“Work is under way to bring the remaining 25 miners to the surface,” Victoria police said in a statement.

The incident occurred about 3km underground from the entrance to the mine.

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Workplace officers have been sent to investigate.

The Victorian Country Fire Authority and Victoria police responded to a call at 4.50pm on Wednesday afternoon with reports that a mine on Indicator Lane in Mount Clear, Ballarat, had collapsed, trapping two people underground.

At least eight emergency vehicles responded to the incident, and emergency services were at the scene.

The Victorian premier, Jacinta Allan, said in a statement on Wednesday night: “I’m thinking of every worker and every family who is impacted by this event. Tonight will be a long night for them and for the entire Ballarat community.”

The mine at Mount Clear is Ballarat Gold Mine, owned by Victory Minerals. Victory declined to comment on the matter when contacted by Guardian Australia.

Victory Minerals bought the mine network, including the mill and equipment, from Lihir Gold in March 2010.

In November 2007, three years prior to that sale, 27 miners were trapped when a cave-in occurred while they were working a kilometre underground.

The Ballarat goldmine network was foundational to the city’s establishment and the tunnel network runs under a large part of the city.

The network has been operational since the 1850s, with some of those original shafts still used.

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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