CRUISE IN COMPANY

The Cruising Association’s first cruise for the season was over to Port Vincent with a short-handed focus. Fifteen yachts set sail for Port Vincent in September for a destination cruising association BBQ with many sailing solo to test their skills. The focus of the event was to promote safe short-handed sailing by holding a pre-cruise briefing and from the security of following the fleet. Good breezes had the fleet sail into Port Vincent by the early afternoon with all enjoying the 18 knot south-westerly winds that dropped to 10 knots closer to Vincent to complete the crossing pleasantly. A few rested while others stretched their legs with a walk to town for coffees at the new corner cafe. Celebrations commenced at 6pm with the group filling the new BBQ facility. This area again proved to be a great gathering spot with the new amenities making such a gathering so much better than previous years. The Cruising Association’s tradition of a raffle was maintained with chocolate, nuts and a bottle of port drawn to the delight of the winners and the crowd. Best wishes were relayed to the cruisers attending the Saturday BBQ back at the Club. Sunday’s return was in light winds with most taking their time for a long slow run back to the CYCSA. It was a pleasure to sail with all and a special mention to a couple of boats from our fellow clubs who joined us as it was great to have them along. Well done to recent Marine Academy graduates making their first independent trip to Port Vincent. Thanks to Darren Harvey on Free Fallin for gathering the short-handers together for this most enjoyable and successful Cruising Association sailing weekend. Come along and enjoy the company of fellow Club members at our monthly BBQ held on the second Saturday evening of the month around 6pm in the members BBQ area. All are most welcome.

Rod Hunter