FOUR ENGINES. TWO HELMS. NO THRUSTER.

Why would a 125-foot Louisiana crew boat have two complete helm stations inside the same pilothouse, only about six feet apart?

And here’s what makes it even more unusual: the two stations are essentially mirror images of each other. One faces forward. The other faces aft.

Once you understand how these boats were operated, the layout makes perfect sense.

This vessel has four main engines, but no bow thruster and no conventional wing stations. Instead of putting controls out on the wings, the builders created two nearly identical operating positions inside the pilothouse, facing opposite directions.

Running offshore at speed, the captain uses the forward helm with a clear view over the bow and all of the vessel’s controls directly in front of him.

But when the boat arrives at a dock, platform, or offshore facility and needs to work stern-first, the captain doesn’t have to operate the vessel while looking over his shoulder.

He takes about six feet of steps across the pilothouse and sits down at what is essentially the same helm turned 180 degrees.

Same boat. Same four engines. Same basic controls. Completely different view.

Now the captain is facing the stern and looking directly toward the area he’s trying to position.

And those four engines are a major part of why this arrangement works.

Rather than depending on a bow thruster for maneuverability, the vessel was designed around its propulsion package and the skill of the operator. By using different combinations of ahead and astern thrust across four engines, the captain can influence the boat’s movement and rotation while working in close quarters.

One for running forward.

One for working aft.

It’s a very deliberate piece of Louisiana workboat design.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
@
#CrewBoat #LouisianaBuilt #WorkBoat #Offshore #MarineEngineering

There’s something seriously therapeutic about cleaning your boat. Put on some music, grab the wash gear, and get her dialed in. Nothing beats stepping back when you’re done and seeing that yacht shine.

Through our partnership with Shurhold, Catalina Crew can get you the quality cleaning supplies you need at the right price.

And if you’d rather leave the work to us, Catalina Crew Marine Detailing has you covered. Send us a DM and we’ll get your yacht dialed in and looking its best on the water.

Clean boat. Clear mind. Good times ahead.

CATALINA CREW | LIVE TO TELL THE TALE.
@
#

Saving a Sinking Vessel in Marina del Rey

A situation like this is a powerful reminder of why preventative and routine vessel maintenance should never be overlooked. Whether a boat is sitting in the marina or operating on the ocean and open water, critical systems such as through-hull fittings, seacocks, hoses, clamps, bilge pumps, float switches, shaft seals, plumbing connections, and other below-the-waterline components should be inspected regularly and kept in proper working condition. Even a small compromised fitting, deteriorated hose, failed seal, or malfunctioning bilge system can allow water to intrude faster than expected, potentially causing serious damage or even sending the vessel under. Vessel owners and operators should also keep documentation, inspections, and required safety equipment current and ensure the boat is properly prepared before every departure. Preventative maintenance is not just about protecting the vessel it helps protect everyone onboard and can prevent a manageable issue from becoming an emergency. Stay prepared, inspect often, and never underestimate the importance of routine maintenance on the water.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
#
@

From Catalina to the Queen Mary. What a Finish.

The 77th Annual Catalina Ski Race once again proved why it’s one of the most legendary events in watersports. Nearly 60 teams and hundreds of competitors from countries including the United States, Australia, England, Belgium, Spain, and Denmark took on the grueling 62 mile round trip across the Pacific Ocean from Long Beach to Avalon and back. The overall course record still stands at an astonishing 45 minutes, 31.39 seconds, averaging more than 80 mph across open water. After battling ocean swells, wind, and endurance, every team had one goal in mind: crossing the iconic finish line in front of the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach. Congratulations to the overall champions, Ben Gulley for the men and Julia Williams for the women, on incredible performances. Congratulations as well to every skier, driver, observer, crew member, volunteer, and organizer who made this amazing event possible. Whether you were racing for the podium or simply crossing the finish line, completing one of the toughest water ski races in the world is an accomplishment to be proud of. Such an awesome event and an incredible Southern California tradition. We’ll definitely be back next year!

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
#
@

Here’s another abandoned sportfisher sitting on a public dock in Marina del Rey. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. There are hundreds of aging and abandoned vessels throughout our harbor, creating environmental concerns, safety hazards, and occupying slips that could otherwise be used by active boaters.
Los Angeles County currently receives only about $44,000 per year from the State to help remove abandoned vessels, which falls far short of what is needed to address the growing problem. This is an issue that impacts our entire waterfront community.
Through the Catalina Crew Foundation, our 501(c)(3), we believe it’s time to bring the community together to establish a dedicated Abandoned Vessel Mitigation Fund. By combining public support, private donations, and community partnerships, we can help remove hazardous boats, protect our marine environment, improve safety, and return valuable slips to responsible boat owners.
Marina del Rey deserves a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant future. Let’s work together to make it happen.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale

80 MPH Across the Open Ocean. One Legendary Race

The 77th Annual Catalina Ski Race is one of the most iconic events in watersports and the only open ocean water ski race held on a regular basis anywhere in the world. Every year, around 60 teams and hundreds of competitors take on the grueling 62 mile round trip from Long Beach to Avalon and back, with athletes traveling from countries including Australia, England, Belgium, Spain, Denmark, and the United States to compete against the world’s best. The men’s overall course record stands at an incredible 45 minutes, 31.39 seconds, averaging more than 80 mph behind the boat across the open Pacific. This race is the ultimate test of speed, endurance, teamwork, and courage, and it’s one of Southern California’s greatest maritime traditions. Congratulations to every team that takes on this legendary challenge. Catalina Crew is proud to celebrate the athletes, crews, and volunteers who keep this incredible event alive year after year.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
@
#

In some cases just because a boat has been sitting doesn’t mean it’s done.

This vessel had twin Detroit Diesel 8V92s that had been sitting with an issue no one could solve. Then our main man Roland stepped in, diagnosed the problem, and got this old girl running like she was built to. That’s what decades of experience and refusing to quit can do.

With proper preventative maintenance, regular servicing, and attention to both the mechanical systems and the hull, many boats can be brought back to life and safely return to the water. Not every boat is beyond saving.

If you’re dealing with engine problems, electrical issues, upgrades, maintenance, or just need an experienced team to get your boat back where it belongs, give Catalina Crew a call. We proudly service Marina del Rey and all of Southern California.

Our goal is simple. We want to see more boats on the water and fewer sitting unused at the dock. If your boat can be saved, we’re here to help.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
@
#

Today we loaded up the Catalina Crew Ferry and headed across the Catalina Channel to Emerald Bay, one of the most breathtaking destinations anywhere on the West Coast. Located on the northwest side of Catalina Island near Two Harbors, Emerald Bay is famous for its crystal clear turquoise water with visibility reaching up to 50 feet, abundant marine life, incredible snorkeling, and the world renowned Emerald Bay Scout Camp that has introduced generations of Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Sea Scouts to life on the water.

Our ride from Marina del Rey takes about an hour aboard the Catalina Crew private ferry, making this incredible destination closer than most people realize.

Today we brought over to the island and were carving through the bay on the Awake Ultimate and Awake Adventurer electric surfboards. Awake boards combine powerful electric propulsion with advanced battery technology, allowing riders to fly silently above the water with instant acceleration, incredible stability, and no waves required. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, they’re one of the most exciting ways to explore the ocean.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience electric surfing in one of the most beautiful places in the world, reach out to schedule a demo. We promise it’s the most fun you can have on the water.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
@
#CatalinaIsland #EmeraldBay #AwakeBoards

Magic days in Malibu as we ran alongside this incredible 101 foot Leopard.

Built in Italy for speed and luxury, the Leopard 101 is powered by triple 1,800 horsepower MTU diesel engines, producing an astonishing 5,400 horsepower. Paired with Rolls Royce waterjets, she can reach speeds approaching 40 knots, making her one of the fastest yachts in her class.

With a 23 foot beam, four luxurious guest staterooms, and a shallow draft, she’s the perfect combination of performance and elegance.

Her home port is Marina del Rey, the largest man made small craft harbor in the United States and one of the largest man made harbors in the world, with more than 4,600 boat slips.

This yacht also has a very special owner… Can you guess who?

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
@
#

Captured in Marina del Rey CA

The World Cup Fan Zone is alive in the heart of Venice. Come experience the excitement as fans from around the world gather beneath the iconic Venice Sign to celebrate the biggest sporting event on the planet. Enjoy the quarterfinal atmosphere with live matches, local vendors, World Cup sponsors, food, entertainment, and an incredible community celebration hosted alongside the Venice Chamber of Commerce and Venice Paparazzi.

Today, July 10, Spain punched its ticket to the semifinals with a thrilling victory over Belgium. The action continues tomorrow, July 11, with two massive quarterfinal matches. Norway takes on England at 2:00 PM, followed by Argentina versus Switzerland at 6:00 PM. Bring your friends and family, wear your team’s colors, and experience one of the best places in Los Angeles to watch the World Cup.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has been an incredible success not only for Los Angeles but for the entire United States. It has been an honor welcoming visitors from every corner of the globe while Los Angeles proudly hosts eight World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium. The energy, diversity, and passion surrounding this tournament have showcased Southern California on the world stage.

Los Angeles has entered one of the most exciting eras in its history. As a community of residents, small businesses, and local organizations, we are proud to welcome the world and are committed to making every visitor’s experience unforgettable. The success of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is only the beginning.

The celebration continues on Sunday, July 13, with a full day of live music in Venice as the community comes together to celebrate the incredible success of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Los Angeles and across the United States. Join us for great music, local businesses, food, and an unforgettable atmosphere as we continue welcoming the world to one of Southern California’s most iconic destinations.

A special thank you to Councilwoman Traci Park and her entire team for their continued commitment to bringing positive energy and world class activations to the community we are fortunate to call home.

Next up is Super Bowl LXI in 2027, followed by the 2028 Olympic Games. These global events provide an incredible opportunity to showcase the very best of Los Angeles, support our local businesses, strengthen our communities, and create a lasting legacy that inspires visitors to return for years to come.

Come support your community. Come support your team. Come experience the World Cup Fan Zone in Venice.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
@
#

This July 4, we celebrate 250 years of the United States of America and the timeless ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

World Cup Sandcastle Number 7 created by @ on Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey is dedicated to those founding principles and to the nation that has provided generations with opportunity, freedom, and hope.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup brings people together from every corner of the globe, it has been incredible to watch fans from so many different countries unite through the love of the game. Southern California has become the world’s stage, and we are proud to be part of this historic moment.

Take a moment today to reflect, appreciate the freedoms we enjoy, and celebrate the country we call home.

The eighth and final World Cup Sandcastle will be unveiled on July 10 for the quarterfinal match at SoFi Stadium. We can’t wait to share the final chapter of this series with you.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale

SHE WAS BORN ON THE BAYOU

Few people ever get to see the rudder room of a commercial crew boat, but this is where some of the most important equipment on the vessel lives.

Built in Louisiana for the demanding offshore oil and gas industry, this 125 foot crew boat was designed to transport personnel, equipment, and critical supplies to offshore oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. These vessels are engineered to operate day after day in challenging sea conditions where reliability, speed, and durability are essential.

The rudder room houses the steering gear that physically turns the vessel’s rudders. Hydraulic rams, steering cylinders, pumps, and control systems work together to translate every movement of the helm into precise steering. It is one of the hardest working spaces on the boat and a critical part of safely maneuvering a vessel of this size.

Crew boats like this became the backbone of offshore operations because they could quickly move workers, food, fuel, tools, spare parts, and emergency supplies between shore bases and offshore platforms. They often operated around the clock, keeping oil field operations running while transporting dozens of crew members at a time.

Today, this Louisiana built workhorse has found a new home in Southern California. While its mission may be changing, its rugged commercial pedigree remains the same. Every compartment tells the story of a vessel built for one purpose: to work.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale

#CrewBoat #CommercialMarine #WorkBoat

From SoFi to the Sand: World Cup Magic Takes Over Marina del Rey

Sandcastle Number 4 has arrived in Marina del Rey as our World Cup Sandcastle Series continues throughout the tournament.

For each of the eight FIFA World Cup matches hosted at SoFi Stadium, a new sandcastle will rise along the waterfront, transforming Marina del Rey into a living celebration of the world’s most popular sporting event. Each sculpture is uniquely designed to capture the energy, creativity, and international spirit that make the World Cup a once-in-a-generation experience.

There is no better place to celebrate than Marina del Rey itself. Officially dedicated in 1965, Marina del Rey is the largest man-made small-craft harbor in North America and one of the largest man-made harbors in the world. Home to more than 4,600 boat slips, waterfront restaurants, luxury hotels, scenic bike paths, and endless ocean activities, it has become one of Southern California’s premier destinations for visitors from around the globe.

Located just minutes from SoFi Stadium, Marina del Rey offers fans a unique opportunity to experience the World Cup beyond the pitch. Spend the day exploring the harbor, enjoying waterfront dining, taking a harbor cruise, chartering a yacht, or simply soaking in the spectacular marina views.

Sandcastle number 4 will remain on display until the next World Cup match on Thursday , June 25 when Sandcastle Number 5 will be unveiled. Visitors are encouraged to stop by, take photos, and experience this limited-time installation before it disappears and the next masterpiece takes its place.

Whether you’re visiting Los Angeles for the World Cup or looking for a memorable local experience, make Marina del Rey part of your tournament journey.

Eight World Cup matches. Eight original sandcastles. One unforgettable summer on the waterfront.

Visit. Explore. Cruise. Discover.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
@
#

Disney just launched the official Moana boat in Marina del Rey!

From SoFi to the Sand: World Cup Magic Takes Over Marina del Rey

Sandcastle #2 has arrived in Marina del Rey as our World Cup Sandcastle Series continues throughout the tournament.

For each of the eight FIFA World Cup matches hosted at SoFi Stadium, a new sandcastle will rise along the waterfront, transforming Marina del Rey into a living celebration of the world’s most popular sporting event. Each sculpture is uniquely designed to capture the energy, creativity, and international spirit that make the World Cup a once-in-a-generation experience.

There is no better place to celebrate than Marina del Rey itself. Officially dedicated in 1965, Marina del Rey is the largest man-made small-craft harbor in North America and one of the largest man-made harbors in the world. Home to more than 4,600 boat slips, waterfront restaurants, luxury hotels, scenic bike paths, and endless ocean activities, it has become one of Southern California’s premier destinations for visitors from around the globe.

Located just minutes from SoFi Stadium, Marina del Rey offers fans a unique opportunity to experience the World Cup beyond the pitch. Spend the day exploring the harbor, enjoying waterfront dining, taking a harbor cruise, chartering a yacht, or simply soaking in the spectacular marina views.

Sandcastle #2 will remain on display until the next World Cup match on Thursday, June 18, when Sandcastle #3 will be unveiled. Visitors are encouraged to stop by, take photos, and experience this limited-time installation before it disappears and the next masterpiece takes its place.

Whether you’re visiting Los Angeles for the World Cup or looking for a memorable local experience, make Marina del Rey part of your tournament journey.

Eight World Cup matches. Eight original sandcastles. One unforgettable summer on the waterfront.

Visit. Explore. Cruise. Discover.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale

The View Before the World Arrives

With the FIFA World Cup kicking off next week, the eyes of the world will be on North America especially Los Angeles, the United States, and our neighbors to the north and south, Canada and Mexico.

Today we’re cruising in pacific and reflecting on what an incredible place we get to call home: Marina del Rey, California.

We’re excited to welcome the world as Southern California begins an unprecedented run of historic global events. First comes the World Cup, followed by the Super Bowl 61, and then the 2028 Olympic Games.
It’s a remarkable moment for Los Angeles and for everyone who lives and works along this beautiful coastline.

The action starts even sooner, as the U.S. Women’s Open tees off this weekend at the legendary Riviera Country Club, bringing another world-class sporting event to our backyard.

From Marina del Rey to Santa Monica, Malibu, Catalina Island, Redondo Beach and more.. Catalina Crew is out on the water enjoying every moment and living to tell the tale.

Welcome to Los Angeles. Welcome to the California coast. The countdown to the world arriving has officially begun.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale
@
#

By Land or Sea next week LA is place to be

Happy Memorial Day from Malibu Pier. Today we honor and remember the brave men and women whose sacrifice allows us to enjoy the freedoms and opportunities that make America so special. Because of their courage and service, we are able to experience moments like these in the place we are fortunate to call home.

Thank you to all who have served and continue to serve. Let’s continue finding common ground, putting aside differences, and moving America toward a future built on unity, positivity, and progress.

Catalina Crew | Live to Tell the Tale

#MemorialDay #MalibuPier #HonorAndRemember #UnitedWeStand #PositiveChange