>The old look wooden and the new metallic. Apart from durability, what are the functional diffs and would these have diff influences on the rise and fall of vessel between high and low tides?
In actuality, the TATTS does have I-beams but has done a better job at hiding them behind the traditional wooden moorings for a traditional, and much more aesthetic look. Although I haven’t been able to find actual pictures of the actual “beam trolley” mechanism employed, it would likely be comprised of a wheel-assembly attached to the I-beam in a similar manner as the beam trolley mechanism shown here. (See pics provided).
FYI, have been looking at pics of RS HISPANIOLA for days. As of yet, have not been able to find ANY pics of her at a higher tide (ie a pic showing her higher in relation to the mooring.