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LASER/ILCA TIPS: How to Repair the 'Hull to Deck Joint’ on a Laser / ILCA

Any crack or damage in the hull of your boat is something that should not be ignored. And while not all damage is equal, the ‘hull to deck joint’ is one that should be addressed. If you find yourself in this situation, hopefully these repair tips will help.

What is the ‘Hull to Deck Joint’?

Simply stated, the hull to deck joint is exactly what it sounds like - where the hull of the boat (the bottom) is joined together with the deck (the top). Fiberglass boats are constructed as separate pieces and then those components are combined to make your boat.

To inspect your hull to deck joint on your ILCA/Laser, flip the boat upside down. On the edge of the boat you will see what looks like an Oreo cookie (the joint will be darker on both sides sandwiched around a white or yellow filling). Starting in the early 2010’s, manufacturers started ‘painting’ over this joint with gelcoat, so you couldn’t see this layered joint, which was a purely aesthetic decision.

The Problem:

Over time (especially in older and heavily used boats), things such as hitting the dock, hitting other boats, freezing temperatures, etc. can lead to this joint failing. Evidence of this will be seen in the form of cracks or lines in the middle (filling) material.

The issue here isn’t so much a hull integrity problem as this joint is one of the strongest on the boat, but it is more so an entry point for water to seep in. Water in the hull is not good.

A super temporary repair (only if you notice this right before launching to sail): Throw some clear packing tape over the damaged area. Then follow these steps for a permanent and proper solution for this problem:

Steps for Prepping the Boat:

• Flip the boat upside down
• Dremel out the damaged area (of the ‘Oreo cookie’). Go a bit further than the crack itself, and wider too. Make sure to get it all out
• Clean it with acetone, vacuum, or air compressor, and let dry

Steps for R epairing the Hull to Deck Joint:

• Put on some latex/nitrile gloves. If you’re working in an enclosed space, it’s best to wear an organic respirator. The chemicals you’ll be working with are all ‘off the shelf’ items but it’s better to err on the side of safety here.
• Mix up some West Systems Epoxy in a small container. The ratios are dependent on temperature, so be sure to check the label. Aim for a maple syrup consistency.
• With a brush, or tongue depressor ‘wet out’ the damaged area. Think like you are trying to cover the crevices of a delicious waffle, using as little maple syrup as possible. You want to let the boat ‘soak up’ some of the liquid epoxy. We are NOT filling the hole here, but rather coating the repair area.
• Next, thicken your epoxy with silica filler. Aim for a consistency of thick peanut butter.
• Use your finger or tongue depressor to push the epoxy in and fill the void, using a more than you think. More is better than not enough here. Smooth it out as best you can.
• Let the epoxy cure overnight.
• Lightly sand with 120 grit then 320 grit sandpaper. The goal is to make sure it’s not sharp, and looks decent.

Congratulations! You’ve just fixed the hull to deck joint on your boat. Celebrate and go for a sail!

This is not a particularly difficult repair but it is an important one. If you’ve never worked with epoxy before, don’t be intimidated, just go for it.

Taking care of your Laser / ILCA sometimes means getting your hands dirty. But it also means your boat will take care of you over time. We hope you never have to do this type of repair - but if you do, do it with confidence and get back out on the water!

Recommended Products:

West System - Epoxy Repair Pack (Click Here)

Other Tools: Dremel, respirator (if working inside), latex gloves, brush or tongue depressor, 120 & 320 grit sandpaper & acetone.

Additional Resources:

Click here for our Laser/ILCA Rigging Guide

Click here for our Laser/ILCA Rigging Videos

Click here for our Laser/ILCA Reference Photos

This article was written by George Yioulos at West Coast Sailing.

All rights are reserved - if you want to make a link, great!

If you want to copy the content in any of our articles, please make a request to [email protected]

• ##laser #ilca #repair

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How to Rig a Laser Sailboat

Last Updated: February 1, 2024

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 25 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 149,903 times. Learn more...

This is a step by step instruction on how to rig the original laser.

• The sail should now be flapping in the wind.

• If you have cleated the outhaul properly, the boom should now stay up on its own.

• Test it by pulling up on the rudder. Then put on the tiller by sliding it into the space on the top of the rudder. Once it's in, insert the pin to hold it there.
• Tie the dagger board with a long loop of elastic to the eye at the very front of the boat.
• Verify the elastic creates enough friction that the daggerboard will stay up or down (even when you invert the boat).

Community Q&A

• If this is a new boat, rig it entirely, on land, and test out all the parts. Pull on the mainsheet and such, in order to make sure nothing breaks. This way, you're not stuck on the water when a part of the boat fails. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Flake the main sheet twice, once on hull then lastly inside cockpit so the bitter end is on the bottom..also a weather cane clipped on mast directly across from boom is helpful as well as tell-tales (and a whistle in your life vest and a helmet on your head). Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• When rigging the boat, make sure it is pointed into the wind Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

• The boat itself (the hull)
• the dagger board and a piece of elastic
• the rudder and tiller
• your mainsheet
• both mast pieces
• one hull plug

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKlIYWfhx10
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3HsMXwGUNs
• ↑ https://lasersailingtips.com/rigging-and-launching/
• ↑ http://marinaaquaticcenter.org/sailing/PDFs/Laser%20Rigging.pdf

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Laser sailboat restoration - seeking help - brand-new to hobby

• Thread starter JBDO
• Start date Aug 9, 2018
• Aug 9, 2018

Good evening everyone. For some time I've been interested in getting into sailing however I am on a limited budget. I recently moved to Traverse City and came across an add from an elderly woman on the peninsula who was trying to get rid of her mid 1980s laser sailboat. I purchased the boat for $5 total. It came with an intact hull and deck with solid hardware (no boom, sail, rutter nor centerboard). There is however circumferential separation between the deck in the hull. The two are joined however by a strong seal around the centerboard hole (terminology?). I had the boat cleaned up nicely but I am trying to figure out the best way to create that joint. My other concern is some of the edge of the deck where it starts to wrap around the whole has chipped off about 1-2 cm in a couple areas. I have done some research and found that white elastomeric polyurethane sealant may be my best option. If this is a good option, what is the best way to go about joining the two. I was simply planning on putting the boat upside down and generously filling the cracks likely with the use of several vices. Any help or insight would be greatly appreciated thank you!  

• Aug 10, 2018

:welcome: After a few posts, you can post some pictures of the Laser using the 'paper clip' icon. Reduce the size of the pictures to 800 x 600 before uploading though . . . I would make sure the hull has no water in it before you 'glue' the halves back together. You could use 4200 or even 5200 adhesive sealant. Although the boat was only $5, I think the elderly woman got the better end of the deal, as buying the missing pieces for the boat will not be trivial $$$. Maybe you can do OK on eBay, but you will rival or exceed the cost of buying a complete used Laser when all is said and done. You said it was missing the boom, sail, rudder, and dagger board. Right? So is there a mast? the boom will be about $150 used the dagger board will be $250-300 used the rudder will be about $300 used the sail will be about $100 So, along with some running rigging and supplies, you will be into it for about $1,000. Lasers in great shape would sell for about $3-4K. Lasers in fair condition, but complete would be around $1k. Might even get a trailer to go along with it. So, if you have not done so, do some research into the cost of making this a complete boat and then decide if you want it as a project, or you want to sail.  

Scott Danforth

Grumpy vintage moderator still playing with boats.

Welcome aboard. those free or nearly free boats are the most expensive as Ted is pointing out. here is a few listings of lasers https://www.sailboatlistings.com/cg...turer=Laser&view_records=1&sb=date&so=descend http://www.laser.org/index.php?Itemid=194&id=297&option=com_content&view=article some in the $1000-$1500 range with trailer the second link also has a few masts, rudders, etc. for sale.  

Thanks for your thoughts. Any idea on my question though? Thanks!  

Woodonglass

Supreme mariner.

• Aug 11, 2018

It's very hard to give advice if we can't SEE the areas in question. As stated post a few more times then upload some pics.  

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37 Facts About Novosibirsk

Written by Adelice Lindemann

Modified & Updated: 05 Sep 2024

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

Novosibirsk, often referred to as the “Capital of Siberia,” is a vibrant and dynamic city located in southwestern Russia. With a population exceeding 1.5 million residents, it is the third most populous city in Russia and serves as the administrative center of the Novosibirsk Oblast.

Nestled along the banks of the Ob River, Novosibirsk is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, scientific advancements, and picturesque landscapes. As the largest city in Siberia, it offers a perfect blend of modern and traditional attractions, making it a fascinating destination for both locals and tourists.

In this article, we will delve into 37 interesting facts about Novosibirsk, shedding light on its history, architecture, natural wonders, and cultural significance. Whether you are planning a visit or simply curious about this intriguing city, these facts will give you a deeper understanding of what Novosibirsk has to offer.

Key Takeaways:

• Novosibirsk, the “Capital of Siberia,” is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, stunning natural landscapes, and a strong sense of community, offering a high quality of life for its residents.
• From being a major industrial and transportation hub to hosting world-class cultural institutions and scientific research centers, Novosibirsk is a dynamic city with a diverse culinary scene and a thriving IT and tech industry.

Novosibirsk is the third-largest city in Russia.

Situated in southwestern Siberia, Novosibirsk has a population of over 1.6 million people, making it one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the country.

The city was founded in 1893.

Novosibirsk was established as a railway junction on the Trans-Siberian Railway, playing a significant role in the development of Siberia.

It is known as the “Capital of Siberia”.

Due to its economic and cultural significance, Novosibirsk is often referred to as the capital of Siberia.

Novosibirsk is a major industrial center.

The city is home to a wide range of industries, including machinery manufacturing, chemical production, energy, and metallurgy .

It is famous for its scientific and research institutions.

Novosibirsk hosts several renowned scientific and research institutions, contributing to advancements in various fields including nuclear physics, chemistry, and biotechnology.

The Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre is one of the largest in Russia.

This iconic cultural institution showcases world-class ballet and opera performances and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts visiting the city .

The city has a vibrant theater scene.

Novosibirsk boasts numerous theaters, showcasing a wide variety of performances from traditional plays to experimental productions.

Novosibirsk is a major transportation hub.

Thanks to its strategic location on the Trans-Siberian Railway, the city serves as a crucial transportation hub connecting Siberia with other regions of Russia .

The Ob River flows through Novosibirsk.

The majestic Ob River adds to the city’s natural beauty and provides opportunities for recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Novosibirsk is known for its harsh winter climate.

With temperatures dropping well below freezing in winter, the city experiences a true Siberian winter with snowy landscapes.

The Novosibirsk Zoo is one of the largest and oldest in Russia.

Home to a wide variety of animal species, including rare and endangered ones, the Novosibirsk Zoo attracts visitors from near and far.

Novosibirsk is a center for academic excellence.

The city is home to Novosibirsk State University, one of the top universities in Russia, renowned for its research and education programs.

The Novosibirsk Metro is the newest metro system in Russia.

Opened in 1985, the Novosibirsk Metro provides efficient transportation for residents and visitors alike.

Novosibirsk is surrounded by picturesque nature.

Surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Altai Mountains and the Novosibirsk Reservoir, the city offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities.

The Novosibirsk State Circus is famous for its performances.

Showcasing talented acrobats , clowns, and animal acts, the Novosibirsk State Circus offers entertaining shows for all ages.

Novosibirsk is home to a thriving art scene.

The city is dotted with art galleries, showcasing the works of local and international artists .

Novosibirsk has a diverse culinary scene.

From traditional Russian cuisine to international flavors, the city offers a wide range of dining options to satisfy all taste buds.

The Novosibirsk State Museum of Local History is a treasure trove of historical artifacts.

Exploring the museum gives visitors an insight into the rich history and culture of the region.

Novosibirsk is known for its vibrant nightlife.

The city is home to numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, ensuring a lively atmosphere after dark.

Novosibirsk has a strong ice hockey tradition.

Ice hockey is a popular sport in the city, with local teams competing in national and international tournaments.

The Novosibirsk State Philharmonic Hall hosts world-class musical performances.

Music lovers can enjoy classical concerts and symphony orchestra performances in this renowned venue.

Novosibirsk is home to the Akademgorodok, a scientific research town.

Akademgorodok is a unique scientific community located near Novosibirsk, housing numerous research institutes and academic organizations.

Novosibirsk has a unique blend of architectural styles.

The city features a mix of Soviet-era buildings, modern skyscrapers, and historic structures, creating an eclectic cityscape.

Novosibirsk is an important center for ballet training and education.

The city’s ballet schools and academies attract aspiring dancers from across Russia and abroad.

Novosibirsk is a gateway to the stunning Altai Mountains.

Located nearby, the Altai Mountains offer breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Novosibirsk hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year.

From music and theater festivals to art exhibitions, the city’s cultural calendar is always packed with exciting events.

Novosibirsk is a green city with numerous parks and gardens.

Residents and visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature in the city’s well-maintained parks and botanical gardens.

Novosibirsk is a center for technology and innovation.

The city is home to several technology parks and innovation centers, fostering the development of cutting-edge technologies.

Novosibirsk has a strong sense of community.

The residents of Novosibirsk are known for their hospitality and friendly nature, making visitors feel welcome.

Novosibirsk is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts.

The city is dotted with shopping malls, boutiques, and markets, offering a wide range of shopping options.

Novosibirsk has a rich literary heritage.

The city has been home to many famous Russian writers and poets, and their works are celebrated in literary circles.

Novosibirsk is a popular destination for medical tourism.

The city is known for its advanced medical facilities and expertise, attracting patients from around the world.

Novosibirsk has a well-developed public transportation system.

With buses, trams, trolleybuses, and the metro, getting around the city is convenient and efficient.

Novosibirsk is a city of sport.

The city has a strong sports culture, with numerous sports facilities and opportunities for athletic activities .

Novosibirsk has a thriving IT and tech industry.

The city is home to numerous IT companies and startups, contributing to the development of the digital economy.

Novosibirsk celebrates its anniversary every year on July 12th.

The city comes alive with festivities, including concerts, fireworks, and cultural events, to commemorate its foundation.

Novosibirsk offers a high quality of life.

With its excellent educational and healthcare systems, cultural amenities, and vibrant community, Novosibirsk provides a great living environment for its residents.

Novosibirsk is a fascinating city filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. From its origins as a small village to becoming the third-largest city in Russia, Novosibirsk has emerged as a major economic and cultural hub in Siberia . With its world-class universities, theaters, museums, and natural attractions, Novosibirsk offers a myriad of experiences for visitors.

Whether you’re exploring the impressive Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theater, strolling along the picturesque banks of the Ob River, or immersing yourself in the city’s scientific and technological achievements at the Akademgorodok, Novosibirsk has something for everyone.

From its iconic landmarks such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to its vibrant festivals like the International Jazz Festival , Novosibirsk has a unique charm that will captivate any traveler. So, make sure to include Novosibirsk in your travel itinerary and discover the hidden gems of this remarkable city.

Q: What is the population of Novosibirsk?

A: As of 2021, the estimated population of Novosibirsk is around 1.6 million people.

Q: Is Novosibirsk a safe city to visit?

A: Novosibirsk is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, it is always recommended to take standard precautions such as avoiding unfamiliar areas at night and keeping your belongings secure.

Q: What is the best time to visit Novosibirsk?

A: The best time to visit Novosibirsk is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. However, if you enjoy the winter chill and snow, visiting during the winter season can also be a unique experience.

Q: Are there any interesting cultural events in Novosibirsk?

A: Yes, Novosibirsk is known for its vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the International Jazz Festival, Novosibirsk International Film Festival, and the Siberian Ice March Festival.

Q: Can I visit Novosibirsk without knowing Russian?

A: While knowing some basic Russian phrases can be helpful, many establishments in Novosibirsk, especially tourist areas, have English signage and staff who can communicate in English. However, learning a few essential Russian phrases can enhance your travel experience.

Novosibirsk's captivating history and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement to its current status as Russia's third-largest city, Novosibirsk has a story worth exploring. If you're a sports enthusiast, don't miss the opportunity to learn more about the city's beloved football club , FC Sibir Novosibirsk. With its rich heritage and passionate fan base, the club has become an integral part of Novosibirsk's identity.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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A traveler's guide to Novosibirsk, the unofficial capital of Siberia

Trans-Siberian heritage

Residents of Novosibirsk love trains and are proud of the fact that their city played a significant role in the history of the grand Trans-Siberian railway, which spans the breadth of Russia. The railway is such a part of Novosibirsk identity that it is even depicted on the city’s emblem, along with the bridge that crosses the Ob river and two Siberian sables standing on their hind legs.  

In the city, there are as many as five monuments to trains, and an open-air locomotive museum is located in the vicinity of the train station Seyatel’. The museum has more than 100 steam locomotives, diesel locomotives and carriages, reflecting the history of rail transportation in Russia from pre-revolutionary times to the present day. Wondering around the stationary trains and comparing your height with the diameter of the gigantic iron wheels of the first steam locomotives is all very well, but why not climb inside the carriages and see how the nobility once traveled across Russia in pre-revolutionary times? These tours will however need to be booked in advance. The museum opens from 11:00 until 17:00 every day except Mondays. 

Novosibirsk spans both sides of the river Ob. In the early twentieth century, the border of two different timezones passed right through the city which led to a strange situation- morning on the east bank started one hour earlier than on the west bank! The two-kilometer covered metro bridge that crosses the river is considered the longest in the world. Due to the fluctuations in temperature across the year (on average +30 °C to -30 °C), during the summer the metro bridge expands, and in the winter it contracts by half a meter. To counter these effects, the bridge’s supports are equipped with special rollers that allow it to move.   

The cultural center of Siberia

The repertoire of the theatre can be viewed on its official website . The theatre season runs from September to July, and comprises mainly classical performances, like the ballet “The Nutcracker” by Tchaikovsky, Borodin’s opera “Prince Igor” and Verdi’s “La Traviata”.  

The large Siberian sea and ligers

Weekends are best spent at the Novosibirsk zoo . The zoo is known for breeding big cats, although surrounded by controversy, hosts a successful crossing of a tiger and lion, which of course would not otherwise breed in wildlife. Ligers, or exotic cubs of an African lion and Bengal tigress, feel quite comfortable in the Siberian climate and even produce offspring. The zoo is open to visitors year-round, seven days a week, and even has its own free mobile app, Zoo Nsk .

Every year at the beginning of January, the festival of snow culture takes place bringing together artists from across Russia and around the world to participate in a snow sculpting competition. The tradition started in 2000 inspired by the snow festival in Sapporo, Novosibirsk’s twin-city.

Siberian Silicon Valley

Despite the fact that Akademgorodok was built half a century ago in the middle of the uninhabited Siberian taiga, architecturally it was ahead of its time. No trees were destroyed for its construction, and houses were built right in the middle of the forest. A man walking through the woods would seemingly stumble upon these structures. At that time, no one had built anything similar in the world and ecovillages only became fashionable much later.

For residents of the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok is a different world. When you step out the bus or car, you are immediately on one of the hiking paths through the forest, between the scientific buildings and clubs. On a walk through Akademgorodok, it is possible to unexpectedly encounter art-like objects handmade by residents of the city which have been erected as monuments and some monuments fixed up by city authorities. For example, the monument to the laboratory mice, which knits a strand of DNA on to some needles, can be found in the square alongside the Institute of Cytology and Genetics. In Akademgorodok there are many cafes and restaurants, in which it is possible to rest after a long walk. Grab a coffee and go to eat at Traveler’s Coffee , or eat lunch at the grille and bar People’s or Clover .

Winters in the Akademgorodok are slightly colder than in the city, so wrap up. Spring and summer are usually wetter, so waterproof boots are recommended. In the summer the Ob sea provides respite from the heat, so do not forget your swimsuit to go for a dip.

Memento Mori

Among the exhibits of the museum is one dedicated to world funeral culture — hearses, memorial jewellery from the hair of the deceased, samples from a specific photo-genre of  "post mortem", a collection of funeral wear from the Victorian era, deathmasks, statues and monuments. There’s also an impressive collection of coffins. One of them, resembling a fish, was manufactured on a special visit to Novosibirsk by a designer coffin-maker from Africa, Eric Adjetey Anang, who specializes in the production of unusual coffins.

Surprisingly, the crematorium itself does not look at all gloomy in appearance and definitely does not look like infernal scenes from movies, or like crematoriums of other cities that gravitate towards gloomy temple aesthetics. The Novosibirsk crematorium is decorated in “cheerful” orange tones and is surrounded by a park with a children’s playground nearby. A visit to the museum then leaves you with mixed feelings. 

Novosibirsk underground

Tourists from all over the world go down into the Moscow metro to take a ride and a few selfies in the most famous underground museum. The Novosibirsk metro is also quite a museum in itself — it has 13 stations, the most beautiful of which is Gagarinskaya, Sibirskaya and Rechnoy Vokzal.

The ultramodern Gagarinskaya station is like a real cosmos underground. Its technologically themed design includes marble walls with metallic elements, dark blue backlighting and portraits of Yuri Gagarin. The Sibirskaya station looks like an underground treasure trove, decorated by Altai masters craftsmen with mosaics of precious Siberian stones. The Rechnoy Vokzal station is framed with ten glowing stained glass windows depicting the largest cities of Siberia, including Novosibirsk itself, Omsk, Barnaul and others. The platform resembles a big ship sailing on the Ob, from which ancient Siberian cities are visible through its windows.  

How to get there

The easiest way to get to Novosibirsk is by plane with Aeroflot or Novosibirsk airline S7 with one-way tickets from Moscow costing from 200-250 USD. If you decide to take from the train from Moscow, you’ll have to travel approximately a third of the Trans-Siberian Railway. That’s 3,300 kilometers over almost a three-day journey. 

Where to stay

There are many great hotels in Novosibirsk. Amongst the best include a four-star Doubletree hotel by Hilton , which is located near Lenin Square (per room from $200). After renovations and repairs, the congress-hotel Novosibirsk has improved (per room from $100) and is located across from the train station. Less expensive but of a similar standard is the four-star River Park hotel near Rechnoy Vokzal metro station, which costs $80 per night.

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