eye on the bay

Spinnaker practice aboard 'Wanderlust'.

Spread, 'Toba Leah' slips past Pt. Blunt, perhaps to enjoy a leisurely brunch in the lee of Angel Island. 'Alma's guests learn the ropes.

The 'Glory Days' crew perfects their beauty queen waves.

'Yo-D-Yo' practicing their reaching.

Winter on San Francisco Bay is the perfect time to practice your light-air sailing techniques. Gentle winds and mild temps offer newbies and old salts alike plenty of opportunities to learn new skills or sharpen ones that may have developed a little rust over the years. The most obvious would be to grab a couple of friends, load up the cooler, and head out to practice your spinnaker handling skills. Or if your spouse is hesitant to take the helm, especially when docking or anchoring, a windless day is the perfect chance for her to get some experience under her belt. Or throw a hat off the side of the boat and practice your man-overboard drills. Or just enjoy a perfect lazy daysail and romantic evening aboard (some need to practice this more than others). So instead of letting your boat moulder away, make the commitment to work on some rusty skills this winter. And remember, practice makes perfect . . . the perfect excuse to get out on the water.