navigation, and seamanship experience, according to information from the academy's website."

As far as the robust design ideas, they're aimed at the nonsailer. Interesting article.

"The expectation is that the boats are going to be beaten up a bit, run aground and driven into concrete docks and piers," he said, referring to their roles as training vessels.

"It's the result of having young men and women from Utah sailing," said Hallock, laughing. "No offense to Utah. I was just telling [Mullane] this morning, 'You know, I'm not kidding when we talk about the engine and the propeller. Reverse is far more important than forward.'"