yes, I noticed the boat one was a bit blurry. And to tell you the truth, that was one of the better one's I got even when resting it on a surface. It seemed as though even if it was on a tripod and I didn't have a shutter release remote it would have done the same. I'm wondering whether it had something to do with being an old lens without the new vr technology.
I was planning on picking up a manfrotto before my trip (I knew prior to taking these that a tripod is essential). However, I think my long exposure of traffic came out well considering I didn't use a tripod.
nope, vibration reduction has nothing to do with taking sharp night shots. if using a tripod, make sure it's steady, use a remote shutter or the shutter timer button(doesn't work with bulb mode, you need to hold the shutter button down).