becoming increasingly more popular, especially on the New England coastline where whaling was a major industry. These boats, however, are less regulated than their British counterparts. While modern rowing technology is considered inappropriate, there are no strict rules as to what can and cannot be raced. Boats are classed by number of rowers and their approximate age. The rules are also different during the race; generally "fisherman's rules" apply—meaning that there are no rules. World championships Since 1990, the World Pilot Gig Championships have been held annually on the Isles of Scilly. Held over the first May bank holiday weekend, they are attended by over 2000 rowers and spectators, and is widely believed to be the busiest weekend on the islands, with an approximate doubling of population. Pilot gig clubs Pilot gig clubs are mostly located by the sea although there some that have been established at riverside locations. Pilot gig clubs might also have other types of rowing and sailing vessels. The majority of clubs are in the Westcountry, however clubs exist in Suffolk, Sussex, Somerset, Devon, Dorset, Wales and London. Internationally, there are pilot gig clubs in France, the Netherlands, the Faroe Islands, Australia, Bermuda, and the United States. Many pilot gig clubs compete with each other through a series of events through the summer in the Westcountry, most notably at World Pilot Gig Championships. 78 pilot gig clubs are members of the Cornish Pilot Gig Association. See also References External links Muhabbet A model of a Cornish Pilot Gig Rowing racing boats Pilot gig Isles of Scilly ru:Гичка