The term Side Launch most prominently refers to a major Canadian craft brewery, though it originates from a spectacular maritime engineering method. Side Launch Brewing Company
Side Launch Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery based in Collingwood, Ontario. It was founded in 2014 and takes its name directly from the town’s deep historical roots in Great Lakes shipbuilding.
The Beer & Spirits: They are highly celebrated for their award-winning traditional German-style Side Launch Wheat Beer. Their broader lineup includes their popular Anyday Session IPA, a variety of seasonal ales, and a line of ready-to-drink sparkling vodka/gin cocktails.
Ownership: The brewery grew into a staple of Ontario’s craft beer scene before being acquired by Equals Brewing Company Inc.
The Experience: The Side Launch Brewery Taproom features a massive outdoor seasonal patio, regular rotations of local food trucks, and acts as a central community hub for live music and regional events. The Maritime Engineering Method
In naval architecture, a side launch (or transverse launch) is the dramatic process of sliding a newly constructed ship sideways into the water broadside-first, rather than stern- or bow-first.
Why it is used: It is primarily utilized by shipyards situated on narrow rivers, canals, or restricted waterways where a lengthwise launch would risk crashing the ship into the opposite bank.
How it works: The ship is built parallel to the shore. During the launch, its multi-thousand-ton weight is transferred to a temporary wooden frame called a cradle. Heavy grease is applied to the tracks below, the triggers are released, and gravity rapidly forces the ship into a controlled, spectacular “fall” into the water, creating a massive tidal splash.
You can see exactly how this spectacular engineering feat looks in action here: Sideways Ship Launch Engineering and architecture YouTube · 24 Feb 2022 Mobile Software Side Launchers Side Launch Brewing Company
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