I hear that local Captains are getting their lobster traps and vessels ready to start the coastal trapping season later this month or in early July. Here you see “Captain Morgan” with some of her scalloping gear that will have to be detached and a lot of paraphernalia on deck. “Judith Ann” apparently is all cleaned up and ready to go:
These images reflect two interesting aspects of coastal seafaring. First, note how tidy everything is on board “Morgan.” Some would call that being “ship-shape,” part of an old saying that reflects the nautical need to keep things in good order at sea for safety and economic reasons. In days of yore, it was a complement to people of any vocation to be told that their workplace was "ship-shape and Bristol fashion." (The English port of Bristol was famous for its very efficient shipbuilding and cargo handling.)
Second, notice how relatively small these vessels’ steering wheels are compared to those used many years ago or even today on large sailboats. Smaller wheels require less room at the helm and often provide more visibility and more reactive steering for quicker turns. Modern hydraulic and power steering systems reduce the need for muscular efforts to turn the wheel or keep it steady, making the physical leverage offered by a larger wheel less important. (Images taken in Brooklin, Maine, on June 8, 2025.)