Stunning Views!

Largest slip in Santa Barbara Harbor is offered for the first time

Where are the Stunning Vista properties in Santa Barbara County? If we could go back in time, clearly the man whom knew… was George Owen Knapp. It seemed he had a pennant for perches of unique quality. Ever heard of Knapp’s Castle? Nestled on the backside of the Santa Ynez Mountain range. Knapp picked a key ridge that extended North, away from the East-West Mountain. It was this ONE SPOT that overviewed all of Santa Ynez Valley.

Knapp Also formulated the trails that reached the home of a future President Ronald Reagan, later to be known as the Western White House. Yes, Knapp had an appreciation for geographical beauty. Knapps first home is at the top of a panorama knoll, known as the Arcady Estate in Montecito. In 1914, Sunset Magazine ‘s stated Arcady was one of two top estates in the area. Knapp also acquired Sandyland Cove, El Capitan Ranch. Another incredible spot is Laurel Springs Ranch (Painted Cave), later owned by Jane Fonda.

Yes Knapp had an astute pennant for spectacular locations. If Knapp were alive today, he would certainly want the best Yacht slip in Santa Barbara Harbor, too. Which brings us to a discussion about the longest, most spectacular slip in Santa Barbara. To describe this spot: Clear harbor waters meeting the sands of West Beach, skirted by Stearn’s Wharf. A red-tiled city view framed by the Riviera and capped by La Cumbre peak. But did I mention longest slip? Yes by 20 feet longer than the 93foot number two spot, home of the yacht, Torqua.

Being the only slip over 100 feet (privately assigned) it has NEVER BEFORE been offered on the market and it may not be again available for some 30 years…. But it is offered today. Imagine owning the only SB homeport yacht over 100 feet. So as I author this piece, I’m reminded of the beautiful Johnson 105 foot motor yacht that visited Santa Barbara in 2013. She sat so proud, as I sailed by her on my charter boat the Sunset Kidd. I marveled at her curvaceous command center. Explaining to my crew that the lower rounded windows held the master stateroom, where there was a pedestal, throne like bed, which overlooked a 180-degree panorama window. I also like the Hargrave Yachts. All said and done, the whole package (new yacht and slip) can be consummated in the price tag of about five to seven million depending whether the yacht is new or pre owned.

Inquiries can be directed to Captain Dennis Longaberger, Sunset Kidd’s Santa Barbara Yacht Sales (805) 689-6293. For more information on Hargrave Yachts visit: www. hargravecustomyachts.com For Johnson Yachts visit: www.johnsonyachts.org

Artful presentation

The Umbria collection of fine pottery serving platters is from a family owned factory in a small hill town near Assisi, Italy. The colors of each piece are vivid and each piece is high-fired three times to add extra strength and durability for years of enjoyment. This piece, called Umbria Frutta Mista Rectangle, adds to the decorative design and color of any kitchen as well as a functional serving platter for special occasions.

A large selection of fine serving plates and platters are available from Italian Pottery Outlet, 929 State Street downtown. 805-564-7655. italianpottery.com

Lighten Up!

This spring, Reed floors & Interiors will debut several new premier product lines as part of their recent Carpinteria showroom expansion, complementing their existing high quality style and design aesthetic. These latest indoor and outdoor lighting designs are exclusively available at Reed (sold nowhere else in California, in fact), and are as stylish as they are illuminating. one of the lines, hind Rabii from Belgum, features a contemporary suspension lighting system. The sleek glass bulb design offers a fresh and modern take on the exposed bulb lighting trend. This light installation brings elegant lines and warmth to any indoor space. Another new exclusive to Reed is BLoom, a fun and whimsical brand from the Netherlands. This cute and clever portable allweather lamp comes in solar and battery powered, suitable for both indoor and outdoor, and is the perfect lighting accessory to give a modern ambiance to your terrace, garden or living room.

For more information visit reedfloors.com or call (805) 684-7583.