Intrepid RNZYS Cruising Division Cape Horn Rally 2023

Don’t fight the elements … but sometimes you have to when caught in bad weather. For our annual ‘Cape Horn’ cruising day out as close to the shortest day as possible, the weather continued to be “changeable” so therefore even more akin to that highly respected maritime landmark.

Several Squadron boats fully dressed with burgees (and where appropriate, ensigns) gave their engines a warm up in the stiff easterly to Islington Bay, where, after a short squall, we were rewarded with moments of sunshine.

Dinghies transferred eager boaties to the wharf where helping hands assisted a safe transfer ashore in wobbly seas up a Jacob’s ladder.

After an enjoyable downwind sail from Pine Harbour, senior members Jim (50+ yrs) and Karen Lott of Mokoia, who have actually sailed around Cape Horn, were able to verify that the ever-changing conditions we were having provided a realistic taste of the real thing.

Other attendees included Don (40+ yrs) and Liz Uljee of Morning Tide, and Rod (40+ yrs) and Karin Klarwill of Pacific Sunset based in Gulf Harbour. These people have a lifetime of boating through the Pacific and beyond, always with an interesting story to share.

We were pleased to welcome Commodore Andrew Aitken (Favourite) and crew members who hiked to the summit of Rangitoto for a gasp of even fresher air! Other well-known cruisers joined Marguerite Delbet (Nomos), along with a younger set aboard with Rick Menalda and Mark Roberts (Enjoy the Silence) – rather a misnomer as the stereo entertained on arrival.

Mike Malcom (MV Affinity) had expertly transported a further group of us to complete the set and, after a short convivial gathering, there was opportunity to stretch our legs with a short walk.

Steve Callagher shared his family legacy of supporting the Girl’s Brigade Bach at Gardner’s Gap, where he enjoyed many childhood adventures including carrying a water tank across the rocks with his mum and more recently replacing the roofing.

However, nobody was keen to take up the opportunity for a midwinter dip, so all too soon the time came to leave. A fab day out with friends old and new at a destination enjoyed by many.

Keep your eyes on Mainsheet for the upcoming Cruising Dinner in September and our new season cruising dates.