Southwindsnovember2004

SOUTHWINDS News & Views for Southern Sailors

Sailing in a Hurricane The Insurance Company and Your Sailboat Caliber 38 Boat Review

November 2004 For Sailors — Free…It’s Priceless

2

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

SINCE 1977

FLORIDA’S LARGEST HUNTER, CATALINA, MORGAN & CALIBER DEALERSHIP CATALINA • HUNTER • CALIBER • MORGAN

Call for 2005 Boat Show Special

2005 Catalina 42 MKII – Shoal draft performance cruiser, loaded with factory and Massey options, too many to list.

Ready to Sailaway. Call for Special Boat Show Deal – Reg Price $234,752

Custom Massey Outfitting Quote in less than one hour with Just pick your yacht and call with your options.

Catalina 310, 320, 34, 350, 36, 387, 400, 42, 470 Hunter 306, 33, 36, 38, 41, 42CC, 44, 44DS, 456CC, 46LE Caliber 35LRC, 40LRC, 47LCR Morgan 440

Call for Discounted New Yacht Prices and Delivery Information Call for ‘04 Model Year Clearance Price 2004 Hunter 41 New Model

hull #120 – Loaded with electronics, upgrade stereo, flatscreen TV/DVD, bimini, RF mainsail & jib, elec halyard winch, refrigeration/freezer, Force 10 stove, Harken hardware and much, much more.

Regular Sailaway only $214,045.

Trade – Priced to Sell

1991 Hunter 35.5 – Trade in-Well equipped, super clean and priced to sell. Must see to appreciate. Only $65,900.

Visit Massey at the Strictly Sail St. Pete Boat Show – November 4-7 and the Ft. Myers Boat Show – November 11-14. Purchase your Catalina, Hunter or Caliber and SAVE-SAVE-SAVE!

40 Island Packet ‘96 . . . $239,000 400 Catalina ‘01 . . . . . $189,900 54 Endeavour ‘90 . . . . . $395,000 40 Caliber ‘96. . . . . . . $244,500 52 Irwin ‘75. . . . . . . . $175,000 400 Beneteau ‘97. . . . . $124,900 35 ft. to 39 ft.

48 Tayana ‘00. . . . . . . $398,000 47 Catalina ‘00 . . . . . . $320,000 39 C & C ‘73 . . . . . . . $53,900 466 Hunter ‘04 (warranty). $225,000 38 Waquiez/Hood ‘79 . . . $89,700 466 Hunter ‘00 . . . . . . $244,900 38 Shannon Ketch ‘79 . . $114,900 45 Morgan ‘94 . .(2 from) $195,000 38 Morgan CC ‘97 . . . . $125,000 45 Morgan ‘91 . . . . . . $189,500 380 Island Packet ‘99 . . $245,000 45 Hunter CC ‘99 . . . . . $199,950 38 Hans Christian ‘83 . . $129,000 45 Gulfstar/Hirsh ‘85 . . . $119,000 380 Catalina ‘00 . . . . . $134,000 40 ft. to 44 ft.

380 Catalina ‘99 . . . . . $144,900 44 C & C ‘69 alum . . . . $69,900 380 Catalina ‘98 . . . . . $135,900 43 Roberts-Steel ‘91 . . . $175,000 376 Hunter ‘97 . . . . . . $121,000 43 Hunter ‘96. . . . . . . $164,500 37 Jeanneau ‘96 . . . . . . $67,500 42 Tayana ‘87. . . . . . . $164,500 37 Hunter ‘97 . . . . . . . $79,900 42 Pearson ‘81 . . . . . . . $94,500 365 Pearson ‘76 . . . . . . $55,000 42 Pearson ‘80 . . . . . . $105,000 362 Sabre ‘95. . . . . . . $149,500 42 Hunter CC ‘97 . . . . . $184,500 36 Pearson ‘87 CB . . . . . $82,900 42 Hunter CC ‘92 . . . . . $141,900 36 Jeanneau ‘97 . . . . . . $89,000 42 Catalina ‘03 . . . . . . $205,000 36 Catalina ‘94. . . . . . . $85,000 42 Catalina ‘01 . . . . . . $237,000 36 Catalina ‘90. . . . . . . $71,500 42 Catalina ‘96 . . . . . . $119,000 351 Beneteau ‘96 . . . . . $77,500 42 Catalina ‘90 . . . . . . $128,500 35.5 Hunter ‘91 Trade . . . $65,900 411 Beneteau ‘01. . . . . $174,000 350 Catalina ‘03 . . . . . $154,500 41 Morgan 1997/69 . . . . $87,900 35 Camper Nicholson ‘84. . $85,000 41 Bristol ‘84 . . . . . . . $169,000 35 Baba ‘84. . . . . . . . $120,000 40 Jeanneau ‘03 . . . . . $184,000 MONOHULLS 45 ft. to 65 ft.

30 ft. to 34 ft.

34 Catalina ‘98. . . .

34 Catalina ‘94. . . .

34 Catalina ‘93. . . .

34 Catalina ‘87. . . .

33 Freedom ‘81 . . .

32 Island Packet ‘90.

32 Freedom ‘82 . . .

30 Catalina ‘90. . . .

30 Catalina ‘87 Trade 30 Baba ‘82 . . . . .

290 Hunter ‘00. . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . .

$64,900 $69,000 $64,900 $44,900 $48,000 $94,500 $48,900 $35,800 $35,000 $59,900 $59,900

CATAMARANS

440 Voyage ‘01 . . . . . . $360,000 44 Dean Catamaran ‘99 . $285,000 37 Prout Snow Goose ‘84. . $89,500 36 PDQ ‘90 . . . . . . . . $125,000 TRAWLERS/POWER

47 36 34 34 31 29 28 27

Nordhavn ‘03 . . . . $1,350,000 Mainship MY ‘89 . . . . $69,500 Mainship Pilot ‘02. . . $176,900 Mainship Trawler ‘82 . . $79,900 Bertram ‘80 . . . . . . $149,000 SeaRay Sundancer ‘01 . $79,950 Carver Voyager ‘88 . . . $29,900 Regal ‘99 . . . . . . . . $49,900

3 Massey Florida Locations Ft. Myers, FL 239-334-3674 TOLL-FREE 800-763-3157

Palmetto, FL 941-723-1610 • TOLL-FREE 800-375-0130

St. Pete Palmetto Ft. Myers Brad Crabtree

Scott Pursell

Frank Hamilton

Dan Howland

Edward Massey

St. Pete, FL 727-824-7262 • TOLL-FREE 877-552-0525

Ben Fowke

Now Open – New Massey location at Centennial Harbour Marina, downtown Ft. Myers. Call 239-334-3674. Sales Positions Available

YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR MEASURE OF SUCCESS

www.masseyyacht.com Bill Wiard

Mary Beth Singh

Al Pollak

David Cole

E-mail: yachtsales@masseyyacht.com

1994 Morgan 45 • $195,000 47 Catalina 2000 . . . . . . . . . .$320,000 466 Hunter 2004 (warranty). .$225,000 466 Hunter 2000 . . . . . . . . .$244,900 45 Morgan 1994 (2 from) . . .$195,000 45 Morgan 1991 . . . . . . . . . .$189,500 45 Hunter CC 1997 . . . . . . .$209,000 45 Hunter CC 1999 . . . . . . .$199,500 43 Hunter 1996 . . . . . . . . . .$164,500 42 Hunter CC 1997 . . . . . . .$189,500 42 Hunter CC 1992 . . . . . . .$141,900 42 Catalina 2003 . . . . . . . . . .$205,000 42 Catalina 2001 . . . . . . . . . .$237,000 42 Catalina 1990 . . . . . . . . . .$128,500

2001 Beneteau 411 • $174,000 411 Beneteau 2001 . . . . . . . .$174,000 41 Morgan Centerboard ‘97/’69. .$87,900 400 Catalina 2001 . . . . . . . . . .$189,900 40 Hunter 1992 . . . .SOLD . . . . . .$115,000 40 Catalina 1996 . . . .SOLD . . . . . .$134,900 40 Beneteau 1997 . . . . . . . . .$124,900 38 Beneteau 2001 . . . . . . . . .$147,000 38 Catalina 2000 . . . . . . . . . .$134,000 38 Catalina 1999 . . . . . . . . . .$144,900 380 Catalina 1998 . . . . . . . . .$135,900 38 CC Morgan 1997 . . . . . . .$125,000 37 Jeanneau 1996 . . . . . . . . . .$67,500 37 Hunter 1997 . . . . . . . . . . .$79,900

2000 Catalina 470 • $320,000 37 Hunter 1982 . . . . . . . . . . .$44,900 36 Catalina 1990 . . . . . . . . . . .$71,500 36 Jeanneau 1997 . . . . . . . . . .$89,000 35.5 Hunter 1991 Trade . . . . .$65,900 35 Beneteau 1996 . . . . . . . . . .$77,500 34 Hunter 2001 . . . . . . . . . . .$97,500 34 Catalina 1994 . . . . . . . . . . .$69,000 34 Catalina 1993 . . . . . . . . . . .$65,900 310 Catalina 2003 . . . . SOLD . . . . . .$91,000 30 Catalina 1990 . . . . . . . . . . .$35,800 30 Catalina 1987 Trade . . . . . .$35,000

Trade In – Super Clean & Priced to Sell

Trade In – Super Clean & Priced to Sell

Trade In – Super Clean & Priced to Sell

1997/1969 Morgan 41 Centerboard • $87,900

1991 Hunter 35.5 Trade • $65,900

1987 Catalina 30 Trade • $35,000

Call for your FREE “How to Prepare your Yacht for Sale” package.

Visit Massey at the Strictly Sail St. Pete Boat Show, November 4-7 and the Ft. Myers Boat Show, November 11-14. Purchase your Catalina, Hunter or Caliber and SAVE-SAVE-SAVE!

Ft. Myers, FL 239-334-3674 TOLL-FREE 800-763-3157

SINCE 1977

St. Pete Palmetto Ft. Myers

Mary Beth Singh

Al Pollak

David Cole

www.masseyyacht.com Now Open – New Massey location at Centennial Harbour Marina, downtown Ft. Myers. Call 239-334-3674.

Sales Positions Available

Ben Fowke

St. Pete, FL 727-824-7262 • TOLL-FREE 877-552-0525

Bill Wiard

3 Massey Florida Locations

Palmetto, FL 941-723-1610 • TOLL-FREE 800-375-0130

Brad Crabtree

Scott Pursell

Frank Hamilton

Dan Howland

Edward Massey

4

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

5

ADVERTISER INDEX BY CATEGORY

(SEE

TELL THEM YOU SAW IT IN SOUTHWINDS! This list is provided as a courtesy and we ask our readers to support our advertisers. This list includes all display advertising.

SAILBOATS – NEW AND BROKERAGE Beneteau Sailboats Back Cover Boaters Exchange/Catalina Sailboats 53, 80 Cape Fear Yachts 23 Carson Yacht Sales/Beneteau Back Cover Eastern Yacht Sales/Beneteau Back Cover Flying Scot Sailboats 81 Gulf Coast Yacht Sales 8,79 Hanse Sailboats 81 JS9000 PHRF Racer 80 Massey Yacht Sales/Catalina/Jeanneau/Hunter/Mainship 3,11,31,37,43, IBC Masthead Yacht Sales/Catalina 29,67,84 Murray Yacht Sales/Beneteau Back Cover National Boat Owners Association/Hunter 75 Performance Sail and Sport 52 Raider Sailboats 81 Sailboats Florida, Inc. 81 Sailor’s Wharf Boatyard and Brokerage 68,71 Sarasota Youth Sailing Program donated boats 78 Seafarers International Yacht Brokerage 12,81 St. Barts/Beneteau Back Cover Suncoast Inflatables/ West Florida 69 Tackle Shack/Hobie/Sunfish, St. Petersburg 77 Tampa Sailing Squadron Youth Program 74 Windcraft, Trimarans and Catamarans, Sail or Power 66 GEAR, HARDWARE, ACCESSORIES, CLOTHING Air Duck Hatch Windscoop 32 Bluewater Sailing Supply 70 Boaters Exchange, boats, gear, etc. Rockledge FL 53,80 BoatUS 9 Bo’sun Supplies/Hrdwre/Rigging www.bosunsupplies.com 48 Coral Reef Apparel Company 63 Defender Industries, www.defender.com 83 E-Marine 82 Frigoboat 65 Garhauer Hardware 46 Gil 67 Glacier Bay Refrigeration 49 Hotwire/Fans & other products 16,82 Island Marine Products/Davits, motorlocks, etc.

30 JR Overseas/Moisture Meter 28 Leather Wheel 51 Martek Dinghy Davits 83 Masthead Enterprises 29,67,84 Nautical Trader/buy/sell/consign 74 Ronstan 18 Rparts Refrigeration, www.rparts.com 54 SSMR/Hood 73 Tackle Shack/Hobie/Sunfish, St. Petersburg 77 West Marine IFC Winch Buddy 10 SAILS (NEW & USED), RIGGING, SPARS, RIGGING SERVICES Altlantic Sails 25 Banks Sails/new, used, repair & canvas/West Florida 19,72 BoatUS 9 Charleston Spars 16 Cruising Direct/sails online by North 38 Doyle Sails 5 Dwyer Mast/spars, hardware, rigging 83 Masthead/Used Sails and Service 29,67,84 National Sail Supply, new & used online 22 North Sails 36 Nuclear Sails 17 Paradise Yacht Service 18 Porpoise Used Sails 84 Sail Exchange/www.sailexchange.com 50 Sailing Services, rigging supplies, etc.

57 Schurr Sails, Pensacola FL 61 SSMR 73 Ullman Sails 15 US Spars 15 West Marine IFC CANVAS Banks Sails/new, used, repair & canvas/ West Florida 19,72 Sailcovers and More 84 Shadetree 12 6

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

PAGE

84

FOR ALPHABETICAL LIST)

USED SAILING/BOATING SUPPLIES Don’s Salvage, Clearwater FL Nautical Trader/buy/sell/consign, West Florida Scurvy Dog Marine/Used, Consign, Pensacola FL SAILING SCHOOLS Sea School/Captain’s License St. Augustine Sailing School MARINE ENGINES AND ACCESSORIES America’s Generators Beta Marine Fleetside Marine Service RB Grove/Universal and Westerbeke Yanmar RESORTS, MARINAS, RESTAURANTS, BOAT YARDS Bob and Annie’s Boatyard Crow’s Nest Restaurant & Marina El Cid Caribe Marina, Mexico Sailor’s Wharf Boatyard and Brokerage CHARTER COMPANIES Sailtime, Shared ownership Yachting Vacations MARINE SERVICES, SURVEYORS, INSURANCE, TOWING, BOAT LETTERING, ETC. Aqua Graphics/Boat Names/Tampa Bay or buy online Beachmaster Photography Coast Weather Services Dockside Marine Services Manton Marine Surveying Mike Shea Maritime Legal Services MARINE ELECTRONICS Dockside Radio JR Overseas/Moisture Meter Memory Map Sea Tech/Navigation/Communication Weather Wave BOOKS Bubba Stories Book Great Outdoors Publishing Gunkholer’s Cruising Guide/West Florida Memory Map Pocket Navigator West Marine Books and Charts REGATTA ADVERTISEMENTS, BOAT SHOWS Charleston to Bermuda Race Davis Island YC Thanksgiving Regatta Regata Del Sol Al Sol Terra Nova Trading Key West Sailing Services Directory West Florida Regional Sailing Services Directory Subscription Information Alphabetical Advertisers’ List

76 74 60 30 51,83 83 20 82 65 82 26 40 55 68,71 4,35 17 72 79 84 72 72 27 22 28 83 25,82 24 39 76 76 83 41 14 71 21 13

72 51 This Page 84

Subscribe to

SOUTHWINDS $19.95/year $24/year

$37/2 Years $45/2 Years

3rd Class 1st Class

(941) 795-8704 • www.southwindssailing.com P.O. Box 1175, Holmes Beach, FL 34218-1175 Subscribe on line on our secure Web site with credit card www.southwindssailing.com Name ______________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________ City/St./ZIP _________________________________________ ENCLOSED $ ________ Check ___ Money Order ___ Visa/MC

#_________________________________________

Name on Card ______________________________________ Ex. Date _________ Signature _________________________ www.southwindssailing.com

SOUTHWINDS NEWS & VIEWS

FOR

SOUTHERN SAILORS

10

From the Helm

12

Letters

24

Surviving the Hurricanes: But Then Along Came Charley

By Capt. Kevin Hughes

28

The Sailboat Damaged by the Storm vs The Insurance Company

By Capt. J. Michael Shea, JD

32

Exploring the Laid-Back British Virgin Island of Jost Van Dyke

By Carol M. Bareuther

34

Bubba Whartz’s Offshore Folding School

By Morgan Stinemetz

36

Boat Review: Caliber 38

By Lorelei Johnson

38

What is the U.S. Power Squadron? An Educational Gold Mine

By Jib Davidson

42

Solar Cooker for Your Boat

By William Potts

47

Preview of the Strictly Sail St. Pete Boat Show

48

Southeast Coast Sailing: Carolinas and Georgia:

52

East Florida Sailing:

56

Southeast Florida Sailing:

60

Northern Gulf Coast Sailing:

64

Florida Keys Sailing:

68

West Florida Sailing:

79

Classifieds

86

First Sailboat Race – It Can Only Get Better From Here On

By Jim Burkett

51 72 84 6 6

Regional Sailing Services Directory West Florida Sailing Services Directory Alphabetical Index of Advertisers Advertisers’ List by Category Subscription Form

Sailing in a hurricane. Photo by Capt. Kevin Hughes.

Page 24.

November Sailing, Events and Race Calendar, Race Report, News

November Sailing, Events and Race Calendar, Race Report, News

November Sailing, Events and Race Calendar, Race Report, News

November Sailing, Events and Race Calendar, Race Report, News

November Sailing, Events and Race Calendar, Race Report, News

November Sailing, Events and Race Calendar, Race Report, News

Cover: Stars and Stripes sails in the Summerset Regatta.

Photo by Mary Naylor

Exploring Jost Van Dyke. Photo by Dean Barnes. Page 32.

From the Carolinas to Cuba…from Atlanta to the Abacos…SOUTHWINDS Covers Southern Sailing Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

7

SOUTHWINDS

News & Views For Southern Sailors SOUTHWINDS Media, Inc. P.O. Box 1175, Holmes Beach, Florida 34218-1175 (941) 795-8704 (877) 372-7245 (941) 795-8705 Fax www.southwindssailing.com e-mail: editor@southwindssailing.com Volume 12 Number 11 November 2004 Copyright 2004, Southwinds Media, Inc. Publisher/Editor Steve Morrell editor@southwindssailing.com Founder Doran Cushing Advertising & Editors Steve Morrell Gary Hufford National/West Florida Advertising National/West Florida Advertising West Florida Regional Editor gary@southwindssailing.com editor@southwindssailing.com (727) 585-2814 (941) 795-8704 The Southeast Coast: Carolinas and Georgia Florida Keys Rebecca Burg Steve Morrell Regional Editor/Advertising Regional Editor/Advertising angel@artoffshore.com editor@southwindssailing.com (305) 304-5118 (941) 795-8704 Southeast Florida Art Perez Regional Editor/Advertising miamiyachtracing@bellsouth.net (305) 380-0106

The Northern Gulf Coast: Florida Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas Kim Kaminski Regional Editor/Advertising Kaminski_K@msn.com (850) 384-8941

East Florida Roy Laughlin Regional Editor/Advertising mhw1@earthlink.net (321) 690-0137 Production Proofreading Heather Nicoll Kathy Elliott Contributing Writers Jody Alu Carol Bareuther Rebecca Burg Jim Burkett Jib Davidson Dave Ellis Keith Fletcher Capt. Kevin Hughes Lorelei Johnson Kim Kaminski John Kremski Roy Laughlin Walt McFarlane Ron Michellette Arturo Perez William Potts George Regenauer Steve Romaine Ellen Sanpere Capt. Michael J. Shea, JD Wayne Spivak Morgan Stinemetz Contributing Photographers Jody Alu Dean Barnes Lorelei Johnson Kim Kaminski Walt McFarlane Mary Naylor William Potts George Regenauer Laura Ritter National Park Service Bubba Thorsen Mark Williams

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS: ARTICLES & PHOTOGRAPHY:

SOUTHWINDS encourages readers, writers, photographers, cartoonists, jokers, magicians, philosophers and whoever else is out there, including sailors, to send in their material. Just make it about the water world and generally about sailing and about sailing in the South, the Bahamas or the Caribbean, or general sailing interest, or sailboats, or sailing in some faroff and far-out place.

SOUTHWINDS welcomes contributions in writing and photography, stories about sailing, racing, cruising, maintenance and other technical articles and other sailing-related topics. Please submit all articles electronically by e-mail (mailed-in discs also accepted), and with photographs, if possible. We also accept photographs alone, for cover shots, racing, cruising and just funny entertaining shots. Please take them at a high resolution if digital, or scan at 300 dpi if photos, or mail them to us for scanning.

Contact the editor with questions.

Subscriptions to SOUTHWINDS are available at $19.95/year, or $37/2 years for third class, and $24/year for first class. Checks and credit card numbers may be mailed with name and address to SOUTHWINDS Subscriptions, PO Box 1175, Holmes Beach FL, 34218-1175, or call (941) 795-8704.

Subscriptions are also available with a credit card through a secure server on our Web site, www.southwindssailing.com. SOUTHWINDS is distributed to over 500 locations throughout 10 Southern states. If you would like to distribute SOUTHWINDS at your location, please contact the editor.

Read SOUTHWINDS on our Web site, www.southwindssailing.com.

8

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

9

FROM THE HELM Florida Sailing and Boating is Alive and Well and Open for Business—Just a Little Injured

I

n our Florida Keys section, Rebecca Burg writes, “The true damages to the Keys are economical in the form of a loss of normal tourist activity.” Since none of the hurricanes directly hit the Keys, they suffered little damage. Boating, fishing, and sailing are all normal. The marinas are intact, the anchorages as beautiful as ever, businesses open as usual, and the lobster are still crawling along the bottom, yet there is a big perception out there that the whole state was badly damaged.

Chris Rogiers, who owns Yachting Vacations in Punta Gorda, says business was down 79 percent in September, yet his charter company suffered no damage, and the cruising grounds his charterers sail in are 90 percent intact. Some canceled, thinking all of Florida was wiped out. This is not the case.

Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte were surely devastated, but the rest of West Florida through Tampa Bay and farther north were unaffected, yet charter companies in the area are suffering from a lack of business only because people from other areas believe the whole state was hurt badly.

True, the central east coast of Florida and the northern Gulf Coast/Panhandle area were both hit hard. A lot of boats are gone, and there is a lot less dockage, but with less boats there won’t be the same need for that dockage, and rebuilding has already begun. Anchorages are still available, and businesses are reopening.

Southeast Florida and northeast Florida are pretty much the same as usual, with little damage.

There are also a lot of opportunities for sailors to pick up a boat cheap. Might require some work, but some have more time than money, and now is their opportunity to perhaps get a boat they want. It will be slow going, but eventually insurance will come through. The boat-buying industry will rebound stronger than ever as boaters replace their boats, repair others, which will help the marine business, and get back out on the water.

For those who really want to help the people who suffered the most, come spend your tourist dollars, your charter dollars, and bring your good will. Visit these businesses that are struggling to come back. They will definitely be glad to see you. One thing we can predict; It will still be warm and sunny here in the coming months.

SOUTHWINDS Reaches Another Milestone With the Largest Issue Ever

W

ith this issue at 88 pages, SOUTHWINDS has again set another record with this largest issue. Come see us at our booth at the St. Pete Strictly Sail Boat Show Nov. 4-7. We will be having a reader survey and raffle, giving away prizes at the end of the show.

WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS WANTED Stories and photographs wanted in the following areas: SAILING EXPERIENCES Stories and photos about experiences in places you’ve cruised, anchorages, marinas, or passages made throughout the Southern cruising waters, including the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

RACE REPORTING THE FLORIDA KEYS BAHAMAS HURRICANE STORIES Hurricanes are a part of owning a boat in the Southern waters, and we would like to hear how you and your boat might have been affected by a storm or how you prepare your boat for one. Send us letters or articles.

THE POLITICS OF SAILING “Politics begins when two or more people get together.” Politics affect us all and particularly in the general world of boating and our waters.

We have already heard about anchoring, liveaboards and other topics (like Cuba), but there is always more.

MAINTENANCE AND TECHNICAL ARTICLES INDIVIDUALS IN SAILING INDUSTRY THE CARIBBEAN Stories about the warm tropical waters farther south of us.

CHARTER STORIES Have an interesting charter story? In our Southern waters, or perhaps in the Bahamas, the Caribbean, or points beyond in some far-off and far-out exotic place?

CUBA MISCELLANEOUS PHOTOS Photographs are always enjoyable, whether for their beauty, their humor, or for many other reasons, and we take them alone.

COVER PHOTOS Southwinds is always looking for nice cover shots, which are always paid for.

They generally need to be a vertical shot, but we can sometimes crop horizontal photos for a nice cover picture. They need to be of a good resolution.

If digital, they need to be taken at a very high resolution LETTERS TO THE EDITOR For those of you who are not as ambitious to write stories, we always want to hear from you about your experiences and opinions.

Contact editor@southwindssailing.com for more information and questions.

10

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

SINCE 1977

Save Up To $25,000 On These New 2005 Hunter Yachts

2005 Hunter 41

2005 Hunter 456 CC

2005 Hunter 42 CC

2005 Hunter 46LE

2005 Hunter 44 AC

2005 Hunter 44 DS

Visit Massey at the Strictly Sail St. Pete Boat Show – November 4-7 and the Ft. Myers Boat Show – November 11-14.

Purchase your Catalina, Hunter or Caliber and SAVE-SAVE-SAVE!

DON’T LET THE BIG ONE GET AWAY Call Massey for details about this very special limited offer and SAVE-SAVE-SAVE! Choose from*: Up to $25,000 in rebates • Up to $25,000 in discounts • 10% Down Payments • Generous Trade-in Allowance *Some restrictions and term limits apply – Call for info

3 Massey Florida Locations Ft. Myers, FL 239-334-3674 TOLL-FREE 800-763-3157

Palmetto, FL 941-723-1610 • TOLL-FREE 800-375-0130

St. Pete Palmetto Ft. Myers Brad Crabtree

Scott Pursell

Frank Hamilton

Dan Howland

Edward Massey

St. Pete, FL 727-824-7262 • TOLL-FREE 877-552-0525

Ben Fowke

Now Open – New Massey location at Centennial Harbour Marina, downtown Ft. Myers. Call 239-334-3674. Sales Positions Available

YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR MEASURE OF SUCCESS

www.masseyyacht.com Bill Wiard

Mary Beth Singh

Al Pollak

David Cole

E-mail: yachtsales@masseyyacht.com

LETTERS “Freedom of the press is limited to those who own one.”

H.L. Mencken In its continuing endeavor to share its press, SOUTHWINDS invites readers to write in with experiences & opinions.

IS THE ICW BUILT FOR RECREATIONAL BOATERS?

I was recently visiting Largo in the Tampa Bay area and was talking to one of the locals who had lived there for some time (and on the water). We were standing near the ICW where it got fairly narrow, and I asked him if barges still went through there.

“That’s not for barges. That waterway is for privatelyowned boats to use,” he responded.

I was surprised that someone was of that opinion.

Al Robertson Seabrook, TX s/v Sea Level Al, Although I am not sure how many barges still go through that particular area, it is the Intracoastal Waterway, and commercial traffic can still use it and probably does. That surprises me, too— that someone would think it is for private boat use. I am sure, though, that some of these bridges are high because of privatelyowned sailboats.

I would like to hear from others out there who either thought otherwise or have heard of people who had a similar misconception about the purpose of the ICW. For those who are not sure, here is a little information on the history of the ICW: The first idea of an inland coastal waterway connecting Boston Harbor to Brownsville Harbor in Texas was introduced by the secretary of the treasury in 1808, although proposals and dreams of canals predate that by many years.

The use of the coast, and inland waters along the coast, were heavily used for commerce by early non-native settlers in America and thoughts of connecting these inland waterways were first discussed in the late 1700s. The first attempt to connect Albemarle Sound in the Carolinas and Chesapeake Bay occurred in 1793.

Another canal was begun by a private company in 1808 to connect Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay, but funds were depleted and construction was halted a year and a half later. After years of seeking funds from Congress, the canal was finally funded by the federal government, and the first canal opened connecting the bays in 1829. All this for the purposes of commerce and for the military. Of course, recreational vessels, the few that existed at the time, took advantage of the canal.

With further canals and government and private funding, by the late 1830s a vessel could travel from Connecticut to the sounds of North Carolina without going out to sea. During the next 100 years, miscellaneous canals were built connecting waterways heading south to the St. John’s River near Jacksonville, FL, and several other canals heading toward Key West were built south of there. In 1947, several of these various projects from Norfolk, VA, to the St. John’s River in Florida were put under the heading of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway as an official designation. Farther south to Miami, first begun in 1883, a waterway was completed by 1912 through various federal projects. It eventually became part of the Atlantic ICW. Other individual projects, both north of Norfolk, VA, and south to Key West were eventually made an official part over the years.

See LETTERS continued on page 14 12

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

31

4002 rebmevoN

SDNIWHTUOS

sroliaS nrehtuoS roF sweN lacoL

LETTERS

Continued from page 12

editor@southwindssailing.com Web site: southwindssailing.com PO Box 1175,Holmes Beach FL 34218 Fax: (941) 795-8705

Meanwhile, Gulf coast states, with some federal help, starting in the 1800s, worked on a canal connecting Texas and Florida.

This became known as the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. Federal funding was instrumental in moving these projects along to eventually connect, with some gaps (where the “waterway” is offshore) in west Florida, to the Atlantic ICW at Key West.

All of these were built for commercial and military purposes.

And again, recreational boaters, increasing in numbers as time went on, used the waterways. To this day, the amount of commercial traffic and other non-recreational uses is valued in the hundreds of billions of dollars each year. Much of this is barge traffic.

So there you have it—the ICW is not just a waterway built for sailboats and powerboats cruising around for fun and adventure.

Any others who want to contribute to this condensed history are welcome to do so.

Editor

CAN LOOKING AT THE GREEN FLASH HARM YOUR EYES?

We recently received a letter from a reader who did not want his letter published, but brought up an interesting point about whether looking at the green flash can harm your eyes. His letter was mainly in response to a previous writer who mentioned looking at the green flash through binoculars. This is a call to readers who might know something more on this subject.

I would like to learn more about this as in the middle of the day no one should ever look straight at the sun with the naked eye, but at sunset everyone and his brother look straight at it, especially as it descends below the horizon.

Most know that it would do damage when higher in the sky, but I have my entire life watched the sunset straight on as it disappears without ever thinking of damage—as do most.

With this in mind there is not much danger looking straight at it as it disappears (as all those who regularly watch the sunset would all have suffered severe damage by now), but I need more information before I would dismiss this so easily — and more information on what the binoculars would do.

If anyone out there has some technical information, I would like to hear it—especially why we can look straight at the sunset and not get real damage—or can we?

Editor

PFDS ON TV? BACKPACKS AND PFDS

I know every sailor has heard over and over again about the advantages of PFDs when on the water. The USCG, BoatUS and others have put a lot of effort and money into promoting PFDs (life jackets).

Well, Office Max has a great commercial on TV that infers PFDs are NOT important: Their “Rubberband Man” commercial has him removing PFDs from hooks at a waterfront site and casually throwing them on the ground. He then replaces them with school backpacks. And like the commercial song says, “The Rubberband Man knows what we really need.”

So tell all the kids to throw away all the PFDs on Dad’s boat and replace them with backpacks. (Put a brick in each backpack while you’re at it.)

Ron Seibel S/V Ghost 14

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

Ron That doesn’t sound like a very good promotion. Fortunately, the Coast Guard and others have given up (for now) on the requirement that everyone wear PFDs on boats of a certain size and smaller. Since the main safety problem is one of knowing when to wear a PFD when there is a real risk, educating boaters to use good judgment is what will save lives. How many times have we heard of boaters who get in trouble in rough seas only to be found, dead or alive, without PFDs on? In response to this and in an effort to help better educate the public, the BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety & Clean Water will give grants of up to $4,000 to local community organizations for projects that focus on increasing the voluntary use of life jackets by recreational boaters.

For more information on these boating safety grants, go to http://www.boatus.com/foundation.

Editor

CONCH REPUBLIC CUP RACE TO CUBA: DID THEY HAVE THE PROPER PERMITS?

With regard to the indictment of Michele Geslin and Peter Goldsmith for their activities in organizing the Conch Republic Cup race to Cuba: While I feel that the federal government’s policy regarding travel to Cuba by U.S. citizens, and the embargo of Cuba itself, is ill-advised, the fact of the matter is that the Cuban Assets Control Regulations, Title 31, Part 515 of the Code of Federal Regulations, which limits such travel to certain approved classes, were legally issued by the government on July 8, 1963 (pursuant to the Trading With The Enemy Act), nearly 40 years prior to the point at which Geslin and Goldsmith elected to undertake the organization of the proposed race. Given the amount of discourse on the matter in the media over the years, the generalities of such regulations are certainly known, or should be, by anyone capable of undertaking, or organizing, such travel, and the specifics are easily obtainable via any of the Internet search engines. The U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control has posted an easily understood brochure on the matter on its Web site (see http://www.treas.gov/offices/enforcement/ofacsanctions/t11cuba.pdf), and, in fact, on April 18, 2003, also posted a notice and warning concerning certain representations that had been made to prospective participants concerning the legality of the proposed race (see ttp://www.treas.gov/offices/enforcement/ofac/sanctions/cubamis.pdf). By their own admission Geslin and Goldsmith violated the regulations. Accordingly, it is difficult to sympathize with their distress at the prospect of suffering the consequences, even if others might have escaped penalties for similar activities in the past. (The “selective prosecution” argument holds no more water here than it does for speeders in traffic court.)

Since the mid-1960s the notion that disobedience is a permissible or even laudable means of changing or repealing an unpopular law seems to have gained widespread acceptance. While that may be true, it does not augur us well as, in the long run, such an approach in lieu of the legitimate alternatives we have at our disposal ultimately leads to anarchy. And, in the near term, such an approach necessarily requires the sacrifice of sufficient numbers of Geslins and Goldsmiths to engender enough popular outrage to force the repeal of such laws. If one chooses to marSee LETTERS continued on page 16 Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

15

LETTERS

Continued from page 15

editor@southwindssailing.com Web site: southwindssailing.com PO Box 1175,Holmes Beach FL 34218 Fax: (941) 795-8705

tyr oneself in pursuit of such a cause, presumably one should do so with a certain heroic stoicism, no?

Unfortunately, for the past 40 years succeeding administrations have continued policies toward Cuba that have served no useful purpose. By encouraging and accepting refugees, we have drained Cuba of the very people—the entrepreneurs and risk-takers—that might otherwise have disposed of Castro and freed Cuba by now, as did Lech Walesa and company in Poland. (It is a harsh but simple truth that those with nowhere to run fight hardest.)

Moreover, absent international participation, the U.S. embargo has proven little more than an exhibition of American hubris that has done little more than shield the Castro regime from public scrutiny and provided Castro with a scapegoat for the privations suffered by ordinary Cubans due to his own policies. Ending the embargo and opening the floodgates of United States travel to Cuba would undoubtedly do more to end Castro’s domination of that country than anything else, as illustrated by our experience with Red China. However, in my view the disregard and diminution of our own legal and political institutions is an unacceptable means to achieve that end.

Much better that the Bush administration, our senators and congressmen and Congresswomen hear that the few votes obtained by catering to a vocal expatriate Cuban minority in South Florida will be more than offset by the disapproval of the vast, less vociferous, majority.

Regards, R. Scott R. Scott, I agree with your political comments on opening up Cuba, although I have recently decided to limit purely political discussion of Cuba in this magazine unless it somehow relates to sailors and the basic right of sailors to travel freely without fear of prosecution from their own government. If you had not mentioned the problems faced with the Conch Republic Cup organizers, I would not have published this letter. Readers: Please take note.

As to your comments about their situation, there is much I do not know about the details, as I was under the impression that they thought they were acting legally—especially since they had put this regatta together in previous years without being charged with breaking the law. Maybe the enforcement changed with a new Bush administration looking at things differently, but laws are not clear-cut and are often open for interpretation—including in their enforcement.

I am also under the impression, and hopefully someone will correct me if I am wrong, that this law has never been taken to court and fully tested as to how it pertains to its application to the Cuba situation and the rights to travel there and spend money.

Perhaps it is an illegal law—that is, illegal in that it is illegal under the U.S. Constitution. Just because it passed Congress, doesn’t make it legal, thank God. Otherwise, the majority would be walking all over the minority, which does happen too often.

But I also believe that it is such a flagrant abuse of human rights to limit our travel to wherever we want to go (and the basic concept of travel includes spending money—or trading— no matter how you look at it) without fear of prosecution by our own government, that an individual has a right to intentionally challenge it by breaking it. Slavery was once legal. Does that 16

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

mean those who helped runaway slaves should not have because they were breaking the law? The Civil Rights movement and the American Revolution also used civil disobedience. Sometimes the law is so bad that it must be challenged, and that is my feeling here.

I do not advocate breaking laws as a matter of course, but sometimes that is what it takes for irresponsible governments to see the need for change because they are so blind to what they are doing.

This “law” in my opinion, in this case, is such a basic disregard of one of our most cherished human rights that it needs to end—and those who enforce it are breaking the real law of this land. Sometimes they use indictment and investigation as their punishment, and that has already happened here.

Now what was I saying about ending the purely political discussion? At least, this is about sailors. Hard to resist, though.

Editor BOAT DAMAGE FROM HURRICANE CHARLEY IN PUNTA GORDA, FL. With one direct hit by Charley, two nearby brushes by Francis and Jeanne, and a near miss by Ivan, Spiritress is still afloat and sailable. She is, however, scheduled to make a trip to Tampa the first part of November for fiberglass and teak repairs. Charley delivered as promised with sustained winds of 140 mph and measured gusts of 170 mph.

Spiritress' home is tied to a non-floating dock in the canal behind our house in Punta Gorda Isles, FL. I chose to have Spiritress ride out the tempest in her "pen," side-tied in her berth with portside lines tied to hurricane bollards and her starboard lines tied to an outside piling rather than move her mid canal and set anchors. The fourteen-foot width of her "pen" didn't give her twelve foot six inch beam much room to move around without hitting the pilings, but as long as she remained "penned," we expect any damage she'd suffer to be mostly cosmetic. We also knew that in her pen, she wouldn't get loose and sail through somebody's house (especially mine), if the projected fifteen-foot tidal surge materialized. As things turned out, we made the right call.

Charley inflicted not only the heavy damage to the trailer community shown on TV, it beat up the boating community. Route 66, a Manta 40 catamaran went airborne and landed on the top of a neighbor's powerboat nested on their boat lift. Later on, Charley blew Route 66 back into the canal where she sank in ten or twelve feet of water, a total loss. Several Hunters I saw lost their rigs, and even a neighbor's 36-foot Island Packet was dismasted by a 10- x 15-foot chunk of airborne trailer, an unwelcome visitor blown in from a trailer park almost a mile distant.

Spiritress was luckier. Being the stoutly built Hans Christian 38T that she is, none of her damage is structural; It's mostly teak and fiberglass repair. Both the port and starboard cap rails and genoa track need replacing, as do a couple of lifelines. There is also damage to the fiberglass cabin top from the missile attack launched when the neighbor's tile roof "unloaded," and ten-pound tiles went airborne at nearly 140 mph.

This and a missing wind direction sensor on a B&G masthead unit pretty well summarize the damage. All in all, not a whole lot worse than a raucous night on the town.

We were lucky.

Gary & Peggy Jensen s/v Spiritress DockSide Radio Local News For Southern Sailors

SAIL WITH THE BEST* * Rated # 1 in the World by the readers of Cruising World

Come Sail W ith Us. Char ters * ASA Sailing School Yacht Sales & Management Explore “Beautiful Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands” of Southwest Florida Dealer

Charter Dealer

ETAPs & Island Packets 32-48 ft Custom Catamarans 35-44 ft Daysails Also Available

Visit us at Strictly Sail® St. Petersburg & Miami Burnt Store Marina • Punta Gorda, Florida email: info@yachtingvacations.com • fax 941.637.5994

800.447.0080 • +1.941.637.6634

www.yachtingvacations.com SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

17

U.S. Power Squadrons Safety Videos Now Available At West Marine Stores for Boater Education. FREE!

West Marine announced that it will provide a new boating safety video on a loan basis to its customers at stores nationwide.

In partnership with the United States Power Squadrons, West Marine has distributed more than 2,000 boating safety videos to its 365 stores nationwide. Beginning today, the videos are available for loan to customers through West Marine’s new video-lending program. The video, titled Your Guide to Safety Equipment, was produced by the U.S. Power Squadrons and funded by a grant from the Aquatic Resources (Wallop-Breaux) Trust Fund, which is administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.

“We’re pleased to offer West Marine customers and boating enthusiasts the opportunity to view this important boating safety video now available through our video-loaner program. We hope boaters of all experience levels will utilize this free resource and brush up on boating safety by borrowing and viewing the video,” says John Edmondson, chief executive officer, West Marine.

The 45-minute video includes compelling visual demonstrations and comprehensive information on the Coast Guard-mandated equipment that boaters need to have onboard for compliance as well as other items that the U.S. Power Squadrons recommend for maximum safety. The video package also includes a $10 West Marine gift coupon for use toward purchases of $50 or more at any store location.

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

It was a clear, warm day in sunny Florida, just like any other day, except on this day, an emergency call will challenge several members of the Coast Guard, the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Palm Beach Police Department’s Marine Bureau.

At 1 p.m., Coast Guard Station Lake Worth Inlet received an emergency call from the Restless Spirit, a 50-foot live-aboard sailing vessel. The report, as taken by auxiliarist Tom Dubell, stated that the sloop Pentecost, another 50-foot sailboat, with no one aboard had dragged its anchor and collided with the Restless Spirit.

While the damage report was currently minor, the Restless Spirit was reporting that the bowspriit (the frontmost extension on a vessel) was caught in the rail of the Pentecost. The Restless Spirit also reported that two of the crew were attempting to hold-off the Pentecost from causing more damage.

Adding to the burden was the tide and condition of the Restless Spirit. The tide was at its low, and as is normal, the Restless Spirit was aground. Thus, moving or maneuvering the vessel was out of the question.

The Auxiliary vessel Rena Bug II was on a regularly scheduled patrol in the area of the collision. Crewing the vessel this day was Ed McClaran (the coxswain) and his crew Mirella Ayers, Rhonda Hebert and Hal Leahy.

Approximately 26 minutes after the initial call, the Rena

Restless Spirit Saves the Pentecost: America’s Volunteer Lifesavers Assist in Saving the Day

By Wayne Spivak National Press Corps, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary With Hal Leahy Flotilla 51, Riviera Beach, FL, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary The 15th of April was just another average, run-of-the-mill day. But for some Americans, each day brings new adventures and new opportunities. These Americans choose to volunteer their time to help both their community and their sport, as members of America’s volunteer lifesavers – the

18

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

Bug located the two vessels and arrived on scene just after a marine unit from the Palm Beach Police Department arrived.

Shortly thereafter, Sea Tow, a commercial salver, arrived. The skipper of the Sea Tow vessel, however, could not render assistance. Company policy requires that an owner be present when it is not a salvage event.

After discussing the situation with the station, the crew of Restless Spirit, the Palm Beach Police Department vessel and the Rena Bug decided to attempt to move the Pentecost away from the Restless Spirit. This normally would be somewhat complicated, but both the Palm Beach vessel (a rigid-hull inflatable boat – RHIB) and the Rena Bug were 21foot vessels.

As the RHIB tied off to the port side of Pentecost facing her stern, the Rena Bug tied up to the starboard side of the RHIB. The Rena Bug was also facing the stern of the Pentecost.

This was done to get maximum power from the engines.

Auxiliarists Ayers and Leahy boarded the Pentecost in order to slacken the anchor line to allow the PD and Auxiliary vessels to move the Pentecost away from the Restless Spirit. Having cleared the immediate distress, Ayers and Leahy reboarded the Rena Bug, and then both rescue boats disengaged from each other and the Pentecost.

The Rena Bug then towed the Pentecost farther away while dragging her anchor. It was hoped that the Pentecost’s anchor would set, something it failed to do. While the Rena

Local News For Southern Sailors

Bug theoretically could control the Pentecost, this day reality got in the way. Due to the wind and current, it was impossible for the Rena Bug to safely tow the Pentecost.

Shortly thereafter, a 41-foot Coast Guard patrol boat from Station Lake Worth Inlet arrived on scene with a spare anchor. With the assistance of the Coast Guard’s 41-foot boat, the spare anchor, and the Rena Bug, the Pentecost was successfully moved, reanchored and secured, with minimal damage, and no injuries.

From 1 p.m. till the scene was considered secured, some three-and-a-half hours later, both the crew of the Rena Bug, the Palm Beach Police Department, Sea Tow and the Restless Spirit were all coordinated and corresponded with Station Lake Worth Inlet. At the station, monitoring and controlling the actions and responses of the vessels involved in the incident was auxiliarist watchstander Tom DuBell.

Summing up the experience, Hal Leahy said, “An interesting case, where multiple services worked as a team to bring about a successful, safe conclusion. That’s what being a member of the Coast Guard team is all about.”

Offshore Sailing School Opens New Location

While South Seas Resort on Captiva Island undergoes total renovation of its property, Offshore Sailing School has moved its sailing fleet to a new location. Drawing visitors from around the world for more than half a century, the Pink

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

19

Shell Beach Resort & Spa in Fort Myers Beach, FL, offers hotel rooms, one- and two- bedroom suites in a brand-new tower and two-story units, all with brand-new nautical interior décor, kitchens or kitchenettes. Situated on the northern tip of Estero Island with breathtaking vistas and open-air beach dining, this 12-acre resort is a perfect year-round vacation destination where visitors can sail the Gulf of Mexico and explore 1,500 feet of sugary white-sand beaches.

Effective immediately, Offshore Sailing School is offering its signature courses and specialty programs at the Pink Shell Resort. The three-day Learn-to-Sail course, conducted on the spirited Colgate 26, gives beginners the confidence to take the helm and sail without their instructor aboard on graduation day. Racing sailors will love Performance Sailing, a fast-paced sailing experience concentrating on the nuances of maximizing a boat’s performance. Participants learn advanced sail trim, spinnaker techniques and become skilled at getting every ounce of speed from their boat. The Bareboat Cruising Preparation course, offered on a 38-foot Hunter yacht, teaches big-boat experience to sailors who want to qualify for bareboat chartering.

On December 4-5, top fundraisers in the Leukemia Cup Regatta will join America’s Cup winner and ESPN analyst Gary Jobson at the Leukemia-Lymphoma Society’s annual Fantasy Sail Weekend. The weekend includes a regatta on Offshore Sailing School’s Colgate 26 fleet and an awards ceremony at the Pink Shell Resort.

For more information, contact Offshore Sailing School at (800) 221-4326 or visit the school’s Web site at www.offshore-sailing.com.

Capt. Steve Sawyer, chief, USCG Office of Search and Rescue, said, “We’d like to express our grateful appreciation to BoatU.S. for its dedicated efforts in improving the safety and welfare of recreational boaters throughout the world. The Coast Guard Search and Rescue Program, in close coordination with the Boating Safety Program and the Coast Guard Auxiliary, continuously seeks improved methods to avert search and rescue cases through education and prevention. The BoatU.S. EPIRB Rental Program is one initiative that directly supports this goal.”

The BoatU.S. EPIRB program is funded by the voluntary contributions of 575,000 members of BoatU.S. Ruth Wood, president of the BoatU.S. Foundation, said, “When we started the pilot program six years ago with the U.S. Coast Guard, we knew of no other way for boaters to temporarily obtain an EPIRB for a short offshore passage. Since then, the program has rented hundreds of beacons through the generous support of BoatU.S. members who believe in the usefulness of these life-saving devices.”

For more information about renting an EPIRB, visit http://www.BoatUS.com/foundation/epirb or call the BoatU.S. Foundation at (888) 663-7472. Shipping is included.

Sailboaters Can Benefit From Anchor Monitoring System

U.S. Coast Guard Honors BoatU.S. Emergency Beacon Rental Program

With eleven persons successfully rescued since May 2003, the United States Coast Guard Office of Search and Rescue recently honored BoatU.S. for its Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) rental program. The program makes the $900 life-saving devices available at cost for $50 a week as a public service of the boating association’s Foundation for Boating Safety & Clean Water. A BoatU.S. EPIRB recently aided in the rescue of three persons 120 miles off Cape Hatteras, NC.

20

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

With all of the sails down and the sun slowly melting into the horizon, it is time to drop anchor and relax. Deep Blue Marine’s Anchor Alert, engineered by Ascend Marine, allows boaters to set it and forget it. If the anchor moves, an electronic device senses the movement and sends a signal to a display unit onboard the boat, triggering an alarm.

The heart of this revolutionary system is the accelerometer. Housed in a rugged bronze alloy casing and attached at the anchor, it measures the movement of the anchor. It calculates severity of motion on a scale of 1 to 8, and ultrasonically passes this information to a receiver on the boat.

The transducer, which can be hung over the side of the boat or thru-hull mounted, receives signals from the anchor unit and relays them through a cable to the display unit.

The display can be flush or bracket-mounted and shows the anchor movement data on a bar graph. From there, a movewww.southwindssailing.com

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

21

ment threshold can be set to sound an alarm when passed.

An optional remote alarm notifies those onboard in any part of the vessel.

Anchor Alert includes all necessary hardware and has models that can accommodate virtually any size boat. For pricing, call Ascend Marine at (865) 671-1000 or e-mail sales@ascendmarine.com.

New Book Out Helping Cruisers Who Need to Speak French: Is Your French Good Enough to Get Engine Repairs Done Quickly and Well in Guadeloupe?

By Ellen Sanpere, s/v Cayenne III French For Cruisers, by Kathy Parsons ©2004. Aventuras Publishing Co., Halletsville, TX. Soft cover, spiral bound,347 pages. ISBN 0-9675905-1-5. $29.95. Available from Seaworthy Publications (seaworthy.com), Port Washington, WI, and through West Marine, Blue Water Books, Budget Marine, Island Water World, Amazon.com.

Kathy Parsons, experienced cruiser, world traveler and teacher, has written the best book ever for anyone who boats in French waters. Early copies went with West Coast cruisers to French Polynesia, who send word the book works well. Having spent time with mechanics in Martinique and grocers in Guadeloupe, I can see how much better my experience would have been with this book in hand.

Boaters have a unique language that standard translation dictionaries and travel guides seldom include.

Parsons’ success with Spanish for Cruisers prompted the demand for a similar book of French terms. Her initial challenge was to help English speakers pronounce and use the French words well enough to be understood. Using a clever printing method, where silent letters are printed in gray, and a columnar layout that includes the correct article (le, la, l’ or les) that precedes masculine, feminine and plural nouns, one can easily communicate without knowing a word of French.

The wrap-around cover provides a quick reference to each section, with icons to help the non-English speaker. An extra summary and table of contents is written in French to

22

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

help a French speaker use the book.

Spiral binding allows the book to be opened flat for sharing across the hardware store counter. To assist the verbally challenged, hundreds of drawings, diagrams and illustrations are included. Twenty-eight topics and plenty of useful information cover every situation imaginable for the sailor, pleasure boater, and marine worker. One topic per page reduces shuffling around, and extensive indices get from French to English or English to French quickly and easily.

Parsons encourages hand-waving, finger-pointing, even cheating. Communication is the goal, laughter the byproduct, friendship the reward. Flawless accents and perfect grammar are less important than giving a dockmaster, sailmaker or rigger the correct hull dimensions. Of course, those who do speak French might not know the words unique to boating and will also find French for Cruisers invaluable in port, under way and ashore.

Once the urgent needs of vessel, crew, galley and engine are satisfied, the cruiser can use the helpful advice to simply talk with the locals. After all, a conversation often creates a great memory, the ultimate prize for those who venture into foreign waters.

As I contemplate a less active boating style, the Canal du Midi beckons. With a guide book in one hand and French For Cruisers in the other, no problem will slow me down for long.

www.southwindssailing.com

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

23

Surviving the Hurricanes But Then Along Came Charley: An Unexpected (right-hand) Turn Of Events Part I of II

By Capt. Kevin Hughes

Windigo long before the storm.

What The Doctor Ordered I work as a delivery and charter captain, and sailing instructor, so taking a cruising vacation to the Dry Tortugas might not seem the thing to do to “get away from work.” But it was what the doctor ordered.

In this case, the doctor was Sandy, former owner of my boat (Windigo III) and my original sailing mentor. His life has been so hectic this year that he has not been able to launch his MX20 in Green Bay for the short Wisconsin sailing season. I owe Sandy big-time for my current station in life, so a request to go sailing was well-met.

The Dry Tortugas seemed a perfect choice for a short vacation, as they are positioned exactly 200 miles south of my current home in Clearwater Beach, FL. They appear as a tiny speck on most charts, yet the photos I have seen make it appear to be an idyllic tropical setting. The reef-protected harbor provides a last stop for Mexico- and Central America- bound cruisers. To just sail there as a destination seemed frivolous enough for a vacation. We would Key-hop and check out a couple of ICW coves on the return trip.

We departed Clearwater on Monday, August 8, and the 48-hour voyage down was without incident. (As we approached the Dry Tortugas, Charley was just an unnamed tropical depression off the coast of South America.) The views were magnificent and the weather ideal. Everything was completely relaxing. We swam from the anchorage, as

24

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

we didn’t wish to be burdened with a dinghy on this cruise.

We had spent the first day at the Dry Tortugas National Park, snorkeling and exploring Fort Jefferson. Only two or three other boats shared the anchorage, and tourist ferries came from Key West spending a few hours during midday.

A most enjoyable day, topped off with a nice meal cooked aboard. I even hauled out the sewing machine to make minor repairs to our bimini and mainsail. But that evening an e-mail and weather fax revealed that a tropical storm was curving its way through the Caribbean toward the Gulf.

Charley Is Born The morning of our arrival, Tuesday, August 10, Charley had become a tropical storm. Its predicted path included the Dry Tortugas and the west coast of Florida. Plotting the coordinates, the prediction had it becoming hurricane strength at exactly our position! We had three days to get back to Tampa Bay where I was familiar with several effective hurricane holes. But another storm, Hurricane Bonnie, was spinning away in the northeastern Gulf.

After preparing Windigo for a lively dash home, we decided that we would start the journey very early the next morning, after a full night’s sleep, to face the challenges ahead. We left at sunrise the next morning, August 11, as the VHF buzzed of evacuation plans for the next two days. The research vessel Bellows left with us to return to its homeport

www.southwindssailing.com

of St. Petersburg via a direct north of us. They were route across the Gulf. We forcing me to return to decided to angle up to Tampa Bay out in the Gulf Charlotte Harbor and then without an engine, at the continue the trek to Tampa mercy of variable winds Bay in the protected waters present at the time, and I of the ICW, just in case told them so. As we made Charley sped up or changed our way out of Charlotte course. (That evening, as we Harbor, night fell as we were halfway to Charlotte pushed on with our plan to Harbor, Charley had head north. become a Category 1 hurriWe continued to tack cane as it approached out into the Gulf of Mexico Jamaica.) We sailed and engineless. But, upon motorsailed into Charlotte reaching the junction of the Harbor, anchoring just Results of the gale the night before Charley.

Gulf and entrance channel behind Gasparilla Island we found no wind and big north of the entrance a couseas, with huge breakers ple of hours past daybreak. across the transition beBut we had now sailed 72 tween deep and shallow of the past 96 hours, and water. thought it best to stay Inhospitable well-rested.

Environment The next day, Thursday, These conditions were not August 12, after a latewhat we needed to return morning nap, we weighed to Tampa Bay, 70 miles disanchor to finish our journey tant. We decided we did to Tampa Bay, but I noticed not want to be caught out an acrid odor as we headed in the Gulf away from a up the ICW. harbor of refuge, so we It seems a contaminatcrawled back into Charlotte ed electrical connector had Harbor and studied charts caused a current surge in to locate a place to weather the wiring harness and a storm. That evening, melted wires, connectors Charley became a Category and the voltage regulator.

2 hurricane as it approachAnother failed component Clearing the deck before Charley arrives. ed Cuba and was predicted turned out to be the starter to remain a Category 2 until it made landfall at Tampa Bay. motor for the inboard diesel engine. But an announcement It was very peaceful on the bay as we edged northward over the VHF got my attention. and inland 20 miles. The wind picked up as we sailed along The Coast Guard and the Department of Transportation nicely toward our new chosen hurricane hole in the mouth (now two separate entities) picked this moment to start of the Peace River at the northern end of Charlotte Harbor. “locking down” bridges across the ICW—over 24 hours We had 12 hours before the hurricane was predicted to pass before the storm was predicted to arrive—to facilitate land west of us, hitting land at Tampa Bay. Sandy and I discussed evacuation. The list of bridges included ALL bridges farther

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

25

how all the unusual circumstances had brought us to what seemed to be the safest place on the west coast of Florida.

Then the gale struck.

I’m sure it was associated with the Charley (or Bonnie) weather system, but these things may spring up in the harbors on the Florida coast almost any time of year. We reefed our foresail and maintained control with the main. But a few seams of UV worn threads of the mainsail (adjacent to the ones I replaced in the Dry Tortugas) let go and further reduced the power of that sail.

We made it around the point into the mouth of the Peace River just north of Punta Gorda and anchored – far inland and away from the predicted path of Charley. It was still dark, and the hurricane was 10 hours away, so we fell into our bunks, storm-weary, for a short nap. After a few hours’ rest, we moved Windigo to a precise location chosen on the chart for the storm. We affixed FOUR (4) 3/4-inch snubber lines to the 200 feet of 3/8-inch stainless steel chain. At the other end was a self-designed, handmade, 70pound stainless steel claw anchor that has never dragged in 7000 miles of cruising. Thirty feet from the big anchor was a 35-pound CQR plough anchor, which on its own held Windigo just fine for the 20 years previous. That’s over 400 pounds of ground tackle, dug in a muddy bottom with a scope of 14-to-1. I have always been VERY confident of my anchoring.

We stripped the deck of everything loose, and rigged the baby stay and running quarter stays. All halyards were attached out to strong points. We were all set by noon, and the winds were 8 knots with a light rain. At noon, Charley was still a Category 2 hurricane, as it made its way north just off the Florida west coast. But as the storm moved north, it encountered a frontal system left over from Hurricane Bonnie (remember her?) stretching across the Gulf.

26

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

The second anchor on the chain 30 feet from the end.

A Sharp Right-Hand Turn It was this stationary front that changed the northward journey of Charley and bumped it to the east. So now Charley, a Category 2 hurricane, was heading directly for us.

Interaction with this frontal system also increased Charley’s intensity from a Category 2 to a Category 4 hurricane and accelerated its march into land.

So it crashed into the idyllic barrier islands of Sanibel and Captiva, ripped up Charlotte Harbor and blew full force into Punta Gorda. As the top half of Charley moved into the neighborhood, winds increased in steps. The wind speed increased from 40 knots to 60 knots, and then to 85 knots. Now even this wind speed was comparable to what I have experienced in squalls and gales. Eighty-five knots (100 mph) could be described as REALLY, REALLY windy.

But the winds I experienced that day over 100 mph have a power that is indescribable, so I will tell of the effects.

While buildings and trees ashore were relocated to the west, Windigo was flailing in the wind at the end of its ground tackle, and the seas became completely airborne.

Seeing we were anchored in water only one foot deeper

www.southwindssailing.com

The four 3/4-inch snubber lines on the 3/8 chain.

The four snubber lines and one-inch anchor rode.

than our keel, the turbulent seas kicked up mud and grit from the bottom, and it too became airborne. Although Windigo has never had a leaking problem, she took on water during this stint like a submarine through every conceivable nook and cranny. Much of it through the cockpit lockers, as the cockpit remained flooded for the most intense portion of the storm. Seeing the electric bilge pump was not keeping up by working continuously, BOTH manual pumps (one in the cabin and one at the helm) were needed to keep her dry and afloat. But just opening the hatch for a moment to get to the pump at the helm allowed a deluge of seawater to enter the cabin.

On one of the two-minute pumping drills in the cockpit, I observed wind speed at a steady 131 knots. That was the way both the wind and seas were – steady. No big gusts, no real waves. I suppose the water just wasn’t deep enough for big swells, but it was fully airborne, whipping sideways as I never before had seen. The intensity of sand and saltwater blasting my back was painful enough to check for blood upon my return to the cabin.

During the next trip out to the helm to pump the bilge, I observed the strapped-down wind generator snapping its two-inch aluminum mast and knocking off one end of a pair of one-inch stainless steel braces, blowing west as if shot from a cannon. Then the shock of this shook solar panels loose, and they had to be cut free before they pummeled the davits and stern rail to pieces by whipping at the end of their electrical connections.

Although Sandy and I were secure below, the full energy of the storm was felt as Windigo was sent driving forward for approximately 375 yards. Then when the ground tackle reached its limit, Windigo’s 24,000 pounds whirled around to face the wind once again. But after a few minutes, there was a distinct difference in Windigo’s motion.

We were no longer submarining through water, with wind coming over our bow at 150 miles per hour. Visibility outside was only 50 feet, so a quick check of the GPS revealed we were moving farther than the anchors should have allowed. Emerging from the cabin into the surreal storm conditions, I noted that we were lying ahull – sideways to the wind – and drifting . . .

Come back next month for Part 2: Sailing In A Hurricane Kevin Hughes (Boat@Consultant.com) is a liveaboard on a 37foot Islander with his wife Karin. They subjected S/V Windigo III to an intensive two-year refit, completed in 2001. He has sailed for over 20 years, holds a USCG Master’s Document and is a certified sailing instructor. Windigo will stay in the Tampa Bay area while repairs are made after reluctantly sailing through the eye of Charley.

A Slight Reprieve Then the dark and violent water-laden air changed from dark gray to bright white and the wind dropped by half – the eye of the storm was overhead, and sunlight reflected down the empty cylinder of the center of the hurricane.

Having been in the eye of big storms on land, I expected a reprieve from the action. But the wind reduced only to around 40 knots, and only for a few minutes.

We emerged for a quick check of remaining deck gear and ground tackle. The four snubber lines and one-inch anchor rode were all intact as we had tied them to the chain.

The anti-chafe protection was still in place and there was no evidence of damage to the lines. It was a good thing the deck inspection was brief, for Charley was a compact monster, and the 180-degree direction reversal began with 130 knots of force.

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

27

The Sailboat Damaged by the Storm vs the Insurance Company Part I of II

By Capt. J. Michael Shea, JD

W

hat a year! As a born and raised Southerner, I have never seen such an active hurricane season. If you own a boat in the South, there is a good chance it was damaged to some degree by one of the storms. This is a review of the law in the area of vessel damage with a second part that explains how to present a claim. Many of you are in the process of working with your insurers for your boat claims, and hopefully working them out. It is for you that I cover the law. As to those for whom the process is not quite as quick, or where it is a drawn-out process, the second part of this article (next month) will be helpful for you in making your case to your carrier.

To begin with, there are two types of storm damage: total loss and partial loss. If the vessel is a total loss, the measure of damages is its fair market value at the time of its loss. We will get into how that is determined later. A total loss can also be a constructive total loss. A constructive total loss is where a vessel is damaged in a marine casualty (storm in this case), and the amount of recovery claimed is more than the value of the vessel, even if it is repairable. A vessel is considered a constructive total loss when the damage is repairable, but the cost of repairs is not

28

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

economically practicable. In this case, the market value of the vessel is the ceiling of recovery. So if you want your vessel repaired and it is possible to repair it, but the cost is higher than the value of the vessel before the storm, the carrier is generally not required to repair the vessel. He can pay you the value of the vessel before the storm instead. You, in turn, have the right to keep the vessel and repair it yourself. Some carriers may try to argue that they are entitled to the salvage value of the vessel as a credit reduction on your claim. The salvage value is the amount for which they could sell your vessel to a third party after they have paid your total loss.

Partial loss is the amount due to the owner of a vessel for the reasonable repairs that resulted from the vessel being partially damaged. Here again, the test is whether the cost of repair is less than the value of the vessel before the storm. Partial damage, as a general rule, is the actual cost of the repairs to the vessel.

One of the arguments raised by insurers is the lack of maintenance. They try to balance the damage that results from poor or lack of maintenance with the storm damage. They argue that they can subtract from a claim, or in some cases even deny a claim, by decreasing the value of the vessel that was poorly maintained. In these cases the insurance company may be entitled to a credit for the lack of maintenance.

Some cases have held that the owner cannot recover the full cost of repair if the vessel was not properly maintained.

However, most cases use the comparative negligence of the vessel’s owner due to his neglecting maintenance of the vessel. Under that rule, the percentages of blame are divided between the owner’s lack of maintenance and the storm’s damage. The owner’s claim is then deduced by the amount he ought to have spent on maintaining his vessel.

The owner of the vessel has a duty to mitigate damage to the vessel. This means that the owner must make a reasonable effort to mitigate potential damage. The insurer might reduce damages to the extent that the owner failed to mitigate the damage to his boat. Here we are talking about preparing the vessel as safely as possible before the storm, www.southwindssailing.com

securing the vessel so as to have its best chance of survival in the storm. It also covers taking care of the vessel after the storm to prevent additional damage. If it is banging against the sea wall down the street, make prompt arrangements to have it safely moored again.

So how do we set the value of the vessel? It is the burden of the vessel owner to establish the value of the vessel, and the measure is the fair market value, which is usually established by looking at comparable sales. If the vessel is an unusual or a special one, the owner may prove its value by other evidence such as the opinion of a marine surveyor, cost of reproduction reduced by depreciation, and taking into consideration the condition of the vessel. Yet another ruler is replacement cost. None of these are very favorable for compensating the boat owner for his loss. Discount for depreciation allows the insurance company to take off an amount as defined by the life of the vessel. Chances are that the vessel

Local News For Southern Sailors

has depreciated from the time of purchase and that the fair market value will be a figure you cannot replace the vessel with even if you didn’t want to sell it. You may be stuck with it. But there are arguments to increase the value of a vessel.

We will cover them in the second part of the article next month.

Just a few other things of interest. Damages for loss of use is not recoverable in a total loss. The general rule is that there is no loss of use if the vessel is a total loss. To recover for a pleasure vessel’s loss of use, there must be some economic loss proven. This is usually in the loss of a charter party (were the vessel in under a lease). The mere “loss of use” for the use of a pleasure vessel is not recoverable. There are cases that allow the chartering of a replacement vessel while the damaged vessel is being repaired where the owner lived aboard it before the marine casualty.

Incidental expenses incurred by the vessel owner may be

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

29

recovered. The owner’s surveyor expenses to survey the damage, and to obtain repair estimates are recoverable, even if the vessel is not repaired.

Wreck removal may be a problem. The state and federal governments will require the owners to remove a vessel from a navigable waterway, and usually very quickly. If the vessel is not in a navigable waterway, it could be some time before someone, usually the state, gets around to looking into the removal. An owner who removes his wreck may recover for the expenses of the removal and usually has the responsibility to do so. This is true of most policies, from true boat insurance policies to the add-on to your homeowner’s policy.

However, some policies only pay for the value of the vessel, and the boat owner is stuck with the removal cost. The Coast Guard does not have a vessel removal program. If the vessel is in a navigable waterway, the issue is referred to the Army Corps of Engineers, who contract for quick removal and then try to find the owner who is presented with the removal bill.

Most of our states have some kind of abandoned vessel removal program, but they will take time and have a lot of red tape, and they, too, try to find the owners to have them pay for the removal. Most insurance policies have a wreck removal clause that provides they are on the hook for the cost of the removal of the vessel. This also covers the removal of the vessel if it is on someone else’s property. The removal cost in those policies is not a factor in the “value of the vessel” settlement. Therefore, under those policies, if your vessel is on

30

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

the beach on someone else’s property, ask for a total loss (or repair) of the vessel and its removal cost.

Remember pollution liability is also the responsibility of the owner of a vessel. If the Coast Guard removes the pollutants, the process will be very expensive, and if the vessel has sunk, both the Coast Guard and the state will want all pollutants removed. In such a case the owner is responsible and has the right to direct the procedure and can contract for it.

Also, call your carrier. Most of the insurance policies cover this as well, and it can be quite expensive. I have seen the Coast Guard raise a sunken vessel to take the oil out of its tanks and then let the vessel sink again. These are usually “federalized” projects where the Coast Guard is paid up-front by the government, and the bill is sent to the owner later.

In the second part of this article, we will cover presenting a claim with your best foot forward.

The opinions in this article are those of the author and not those of the U.S. Coast Guard or any other entity.

If you have a boating legal (sailing) question please drop me a note care of SOUTHWINDS or e-mail me at mike@jmichaelshea.com, Capt. J. Michael Shea is a maritime attorney in Tampa, FL, and holds a Masters and Harbor Pilots license. He has co-authored law books in the maritime field and writes articles on maritime law from time to time. He has served as a marine investigator for the United States Coast Guard and teaches legal studies.

www.southwindssailing.com

TROPICAL PIPELINE

The Soggy Dollar bar in White Bay.

Foxy Callwood at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour.

Exploring the Laid-Back British Virgin Island of Jost Van Dyke

By Carol M. Bareuther Photos by Dean Barnes

O

ne long reach—after leaving Red Hook, St. Thomas and cutting through the offshore cays east of Lovango Cay—put us right into Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke in time for lunch. This eight-square-mile British Virgin Island boasts a population of less than 200 residents. Yet Jost’s laidback charm, killer white sand beaches and party-hearty beach bar culture entices yet a sizable number of cruising transients who, like us, come to party and play.

The friendliness found on Jost, believe it or not, starts at the customs and immigration office. When coming from the U.S. Virgin Islands, it’s ideal to clear in here rather than the more crowded entry at West End, Tortola. Just anchor in Great Harbor, dinghy into the main dock and walk directly to the two-story white government building. Customs and immigration are on the bottom floor, the police station on top and public restrooms behind.

The sandy stretch between the dock and the govern-

32

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

ment building might look like beach, but don’t let that fool you. This is “Main Street” or as much of a main drag as Jost offers. If you walk to the far west, you’ll find Rudy’s Mariners Inn. Rudy doesn’t rent rooms anymore, but he does have his indispensable grocery store and restaurant that specializes in fresh fish and barbecued chicken and ribs.

Corsair’s is the newest kid on this beach bar block. If you can’t spot it by its bright pink façade, you’ll recognize it by the vintage jeep that sits just outside. The menu here is advertised as Mexican, but it’s more Mexican-ItalianContinental-West Indian. How else would you describe a lunch that we and our friends ordered, which included seafood quesadillas, pasta primavera, homemade french fries and jerk chicken wings?

After lunch, we walked back Bun Road, the little dirt road that runs north and south past the customs and immigration building, to Christine’s Bakery. We certainly weren’t hungry, but we knew we would want those mouthwatering cinnamon buns and banana bread come morning. Nature’s Basket is located next to Christine’s and another great spot for groceries.

Great Harbour is growing up, and there’s a few new additions since the last time we visited. Wendell’s World Watersports offers Internet service as well as kayak and inflatable dinghy rentals. Next door, the Jost Van Dyke Ice Cream Parlor serves coconut ice cream and mango sherbet among its many flavors.

As always, Foxy’s Tamarind Bar anchors the east side of the bay. This is the celebrated place where the likes of Tom Cruise, Kelsey Grammer and Walter Cronkite hang out with owner Foxy Callwood, a seventh-generation Jost Van Dyker and clever calypsonian full of wild and wicked ditties.

Enterprising Foxy opened a new place in the summer of www.southwindssailing.com

The beach in Great Harbour in front of Foxy’s Tamarind Bar. Looking down from the mountain top on White Bay

2003 called Foxy’s Taboo Bar & Restaurant. It’s located on Diamond Cay, a small dot of land to the east of the island and swimming distance from Little Jost Van Dyke. I wouldn’t recommend scooting up there from Great Harbour by dinghy as it can be rough, though it does make a good first stop if you’re sailing over from Tortola’s north shore anchorages such as Cane Garden Bay. There are 10 mooring balls here that cost $25 if you overnight. Otherwise, you can tie up at the small marina that offers dockage, fuel, ice and water. Open for lunch and dinner, Foxy’s Taboo is a little ritzier than Foxy’s place in town. For example, the Taboo Burger is a hand-formed nearly half-pounder on ciabata bread garnished with mango chutney and pepper jack cheese. You’ll find a wine list, too, and prices to match the ambiance.

Even if you don’t want to sup at Taboo, do come out to this deserted end of the island. The Bubbly Pool is a real treat. It’s a natural rock outcropping where the Atlantic rushes in to form a natural Jacuzzi. You can reach the pool by hiking a quarter-mile trail that leads from the salt pond just north of Diamond Cay. Almost every beach bar on Jost boasts lobster. We think the best is found in Little Harbour, about a ten-minute dinghy ride east from Great Harbour, at Sydney’s Peace & Love. This comes from the fact that we met Sydney See EXPLORING continued on page 85 Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

33

34

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

35

BOAT REVIEW

The Caliber 38 is a Winner

By Lorelei Johnson

W

e love our boat! We were introduced to the Caliber 38 in 1994 by friends who were cruising on one. In 2002 we purchased our own 1990 Caliber 38.

Because of its beige hull, the Caliber is often mistaken for an Island Packet. The Caliber has the high quality construction of the Island Packet for less money.

Caliber Yachts is a small builder in Clearwater, FL. The company was started by the McCreary brothers, Michael and George. The brothers continue to be active in the business, Michael in designing and George in marketing

The Caliber 38 is a sloop which many owners have chosen to cutter-rig. After trying her without, we decided not to cutter-rig her. For safety and convenience all lines are led aft for sail-handling from the cockpit. The traveler is above the bimini at mid-cockpit. We have found this to be a good feature, which keeps the cockpit clear. The 57-foot mast is tall enough for sailing performance, but not so tall as to concern a sailor when going under bridges. The bow pulpit with the roller furling jib mounted at its base is great for getting in front of the sail or anchor-handling. The large anchor locker is the best I’ve ever seen. As cruisers, we were always looking for somewhere to stow things such as extra fuel, ground tackle and fenders. An excellent feature of the anchor locker is the drain. If we take on water from the waves, stow a wet rode or simply want to rinse the locker out, it drains handily.

Although we would prefer a boat with no exterior wood, the Caliber 38’s is minimal. There is wood for grab rails, for trim on the edge of the coach roof and along the gunwales. The largest piece of wood is on the cockpit coamings. We have to admit the wood gives the boat a classic look, but we dislike the work.

The Caliber 38 has an ample aft cockpit. One complaint we have is that the helm is in a cutout in the cockpit benches. This makes it necessary to maneuver between the wheel and the seat to get behind the helm. Although our first choice would have been a walk-through transom, the Caliber 38 has the next best thing. The center of the stern rail drops down to provide a sturdy boarding ladder. Two vented cockpit lockers aft serve well for propane storage in one 36

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

and as a spot for cleaning supplies or as a cooler in the other.

To round out the cockpit there is a huge lazarette on the port side. It is designed to allow a person to get into it for access to the rear of the engine, the batteries and storage. My husband, Radd, has spent a lot of time in there. There is even space to install a generator. Additionally, we have a separate storage area under the floor of the lazarette.

The Caliber 38 has a Yanmar 44 engine “under the companionway.” One of the few complaints that we have about the boat is the engine noise. It could be soundproofed with panels or a box built over the engine.

Specifications include: LOD 38 feet; LWL 32 feet; beam 12’8”; and draft 5 feet. Fuel and water tank capacities are 46 gallons and 156 gallons respectively. While cruising with just two of us, we are able to each take a daily shower and make the water last three weeks. This is without drinking the water out of the tanks.

Under sail we have been happy with the Caliber 38’s performance. Neither light winds nor heavy winds are a problem. Frankly, even though I am an experienced sailor, I don’t like the boat to “tip.” Thanks to a modified fin keel and a ballast displacement ratio of 44 percent, the Caliber 38 is a “stiff” boat.

Having cruised previously on a different boat, we had a few things in mind as far as accommodations on our second yacht. On a 38-foot boat, I don’t know what more we could have wanted. I have trouble determining the best feature. Although I always say we bought the boat because it has a spot for the trash basket under the bottom companionway step!

Starting forward, first is the head for the owner’s cabin.

The head has a separate shower stall with enough head room for most sailors! Next are the Pullman berth and a double cedar-lined hanging locker. The owner’s cabin also includes a vanity, which we use for our office.

The center of the boat has an L-shaped dinette with a bulkhead-mounted table. With the table up we have a “living room” and floor space for dancing! When in the up position the table covers a generous wine and magazine rack. Next on the port side is the galley. It features a huge icebox. Radd got in it one time! When converted to a refrigerator we question whether smaller might be better. There is also a pump to drain the icebox. A clever addition is storage under the galley sole. We call it the “wine locker.”

Aft of the galley is another reason to buy this boat — the chart table. It sits athwartships and is tucked under the Local News For Southern Sailors

cockpit bench. It even has its own opening port. To starboard is another head with two entrances. One entrance is to the main cabin and the other to the aft cabin. It’s a squeeze, but if you have modest guests (on a boat?), this is an ideal arrangement. Finally is the aft cabin with a hanging locker and a berth, which is very comfortable for two people.

Comfortable is the key word for the accommodations on the Caliber 38. The headroom is 6’5” and ventilation is great. There are 14 opening ports, seven hatches and two dorades. Add to that the extensive storage and I think anyone would agree a lot is packed into 38 feet.

The price for a used Caliber 38 is approximately $130,000 depending on age, condition and extras.

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

37

POWER SQUADRON

What is the U.S. Power Squadron?

An Educational Gold Mine

By Jib Davidson Once every six years, the Gainesville Sail and Power Squadron, along with the Ocala Power Squadron, hosts the North Florida U.S. Power Squadron’s District 23 Conference. This annual event consists of all the officers and interested members from 11 local squadrons located from Jacksonville to Cocoa Beach, west to Orlando, and north to Gainesville. Collectively, this group represents over 1,300 sailboat and motorboat owners.

This year it was Gainesville’s turn to chair the conference. My wife, Teresa, was the Gainesville Sail and Power Squadron’s commander so, by default, she became the conference committee chairperson. I was a past squadron sommander and married to her so, by default, I became Teresa’s assistant. Oh, the joys of marriage.

One of my assigned tasks was to rally a little support

38

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

from the sailing community. Southwinds has been sending their magazine to our squadron for many years so naturally I called Steve Morrell to see if he could send some extra past issues for the attendees. I explained what I needed, and Steve said he would be happy to help. At the end of our conversation Steve said “Now exactly what is the Power Squadron?” Hence this article.

Simply put, the U.S. Power Squadron (USPS) is the single best deal in boating education that I have ever found.

The USPS does many good things for boating, but by far their education program is second to none and, best of all, it is offered at a ridiculously low price. The cost for each class is the cost of the textbooks and whatever supplies might be required. The instructors are volunteers, and the classrooms are typically donated so no cost there.

The Power Squadron tends to attract people who have a real interest in learning about the marine environment, people who want an in-depth understanding of this world.

To fully master the material often means, for most people, to teach it. As a result, the instructors tend to be really into their subjects, and they bring lots of enthusiasm and practical experience into the classroom. Each squadron tries to have the best instructors and most succeed.

Basically the USPS offers three categories of courses: an introductory class in boating fundamentals, five core courses referred to as “advanced grades” and five “elective” courses. All have a written final exam. The courses are so complete and in depth that anyone who takes the first three advanced grade courses has all of the knowledge they need to pass the US Coast Guard captain’s exam.

The fundamental course is offered by all of the squadrons at lease once a year and is the foundation for most of the later courses. This introductory course is equally suited for both powerboaters and sailors. Different squadrons have different names for this course. America’s Boating Course, Safe Boating, Boat Smart and The Boating Course are used depending on which textbook the instructors like. They all give the basics in anchoring, docking, safety equipment, using the VHF radio, boat trailering, introduction to aids to navigation, marlinspike, rules of the road, basic boat-handling under certain conditions and basic navigation principles.

The first advanced grade course starts with Seamanship, an 11-week class that builds on the basics taught in the boating course and takes a more in-depth study of the topics. It also serves as an excellent review of those very important boating fundamentals. The class covers more on marlinspike, safety, skipper’s responsibilities, what to do before leaving the dock, weather and wave forms, nautical etiquette, hull design and care, navigation www.southwindssailing.com

rules, boat care, nautical customs, hull design and performance, docking and undocking, towing, trailering, anchoring, rafting dingies, USPS instructor Jib Davidson making a point cruising considerations and boating emergencies.

The next advanced grade course is the first of four navigation classes entitled Piloting. Piloting assumes a perfect world with no waves, currents, tides or wind. It lays down the basics of navigation principles with such topics as how to read a marine chart, the various types of charts and marine publications of interest to mariners, aids to navigation, use of the mariners compass and how to adjust it, determining deviation and variation, dead reckoning, how to take bearings, planning and plotting courses both on paper and with electronics, all with proper labeling. The new-and-very up to date textbook and student workbook do an outstanding job of integrating traditional navigation techniques with GPS and electronic navigation. If you really want to learn about your GPS and how to navigate, then this is the class for you. It is very well-done and very thorough.

Advanced Piloting brings in a serious discussion of waves, currents, tides and the wind. Topics such as set and drift, running fixes, more on determining speed, direction and time, advanced positioning techniques, the use of electronic navigation systems and predicting the speed and direction of the currents along with finding the height and times of tides at any location are covered. As with Piloting, there is a very heavy emphasis on GPS and electronic navigation.

For the ocean-going captain, the next two courses deal with off-shore navigation and crossing an ocean. They are titled Junior Navigation and Navigation. Junior Navigation looks at time zones, celestial coordinates and lines of positions, passage-planning using open ocean charts, ocean currents and how to find and identify all of the navigation stars.

The main instructional tool is the marine sextant, which is used to determine the boat’s position using the sun, moon, planets, and stars. Be prepared for an intense class as it can last up to six months.

Navigation follows Junior Navigation, and this very advanced class further develops celestial navigation theory and the related skills in sight-taking and reduction. Both courses require a written final exam, a lengthy take-home exam and a set of sextant sites that must be turned in for a grade. Admittedly using the sextant is a somewhat outdated tool, but it does teach how the celestial heavens work and Local News For Southern Sailors

how to navigate by celestial objects. It is also handy knowledge to have if there is a complete electrical failure out in the middle of the about rules of the road. ocean or if you end up in a life boat. Luckily you just happen to have your handy-dandy sextant with you, and you know how to use it!

The five elective courses are stand-alone, which means they do not need to be taken in any particular order. The five courses are Cruise Planning, Engine Maintenance, Marine Electronics, Sailing and Weather.

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

39

POWER SQUADRON Instructor Jib Davidson teaching a class about the proper use of a VHF radio.

Cruise Planning, as the name implies, is preparing for a cruise, whether for a day, a week or a month. Topics include planning for the voyage, financing the voyage, equipping the boat, selecting the crew, provisioning, voyage management, navigation planning, weather, communications, entering and clearing foreign and domestic ports, anchors and anchoring, emergencies afloat, medical emergencies and security.

Engine Maintenance covers the general construction, operating principles, maintenance and repair of marine gasoline and diesel engines, cooling, electrical, fuel, and lubricating systems and associated propulsion components—clutches, propellers and the shaft. One of the major

40

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

objectives of this course is to help the student become more self-reliant afloat so trouble diagnosing and temporary repair remedies are emphasized along with safety measures. The course is intended to make you a little more intelligent and a little more resourceful boat engine operator.

Marine Electronics provides essential knowledge about your boat’s electrical and electronic systems. Proper wiring and color coding, grounding, electrolysis control, and batteries along with battery maintenance are included. Depth finders, marine radio telephones, ham radio, SSB, radar, loran, GPS, and advanced systems for electronic navigation are also studied. Information is provided on FCC requirements for station licensing and operator permits for radio telephone.

Sail provides a thorough study of sailing terminology as well as information on sailboat rigs, sail plans, boat design and hull types, sails, standing rigging, running rigging, wind, preparing to sail, sailing upwind, sailing downwind, docking and anchoring, marlinspike seamanship, navigation rules, wind forces, stability, balance, sail shape, tuning the rig, steering and helmsmanship, spinnaker handling, heavy weather sailing, storm conditions, sailing safety, sailboat racing and race management. For sailors, this is an outstanding class.

Weather is a very intensive and worthwhile course as this topic is critically important to anyone who spends time on the water. Awareness of weather phenomena, how to read the weather map and the sky, how to make your own weather predictions and how to understand and anticipate weather developments are the objectives of this course.

Subjects studied include: characteristics and structure of the atmosphere, what weather is and its basic causes, normal development and movement of weather over the earth and weather forecasting factors. Observations that the skipper can make afloat include both instrumental and visual along with knowledge of cloud sequences and the weather they predict, air masses, fronts, storms, fog and the use of radio and television weather broadcasts. Throughout the course the student is encouraged to make observations and prediwww.southwindssailing.com

Exam time for Piloting students in Gainesville, FL.

cations in order to gain experience in applying the principles taught and develop greater insight into weather phenomena.

These courses are a gold mine not only because of the extra low cost and depth of coverage but also because of the very knowledgeable instructors. I know many seasoned boaters who have learned a tremendous amount from these courses, especially the advanced classes. I am one of those seasoned boaters who was surprised at how much I learned when I took the courses.

As always, there are a few hitches. Most of the local Power Squadrons wear uniforms and give themselves fancy titles. As with many organizations, new people can often be ignored. Many people find all this a little intimidating. My advice is to overlook the uniforms; dive on in and enjoy the knowledge.

Another hitch is that you, as a student, must be prepared to study. The courses will be a waste of time if you don’t do the reading assignments, or if you don’t do the homework. Schedule at least two to four hours per week for study time.

None of the USPS courses offer actual hands-on experience. The Power Squadron, like any college or university, lays an excellent foundation for serious boaters in the classroom. Don’t underestimate this classroom foundation.

There may not be any on-the-water experience, but almost everything you learn in the classroom can be applied on the water. There are lots of other organizations that give handson experience such as the American Sailing Association (ASA) or Colgate. My experience with the hands-on courses is that they don’t teach as much of the foundations and theory as they should. I know from practical experience as Teresa and I have both taken many of the ASA courses, and I have read the Colgate book. We learned a lot from the ASA courses and they were well worth the time, even though they are a bit pricy. For a total well-rounded education I recommend both the USPS courses and a hands-on course.

Your local Power Squadron can be found by going to http://www.usps.org/ and click the ‘Welcome Aboard’ Local News For Southern Sailors

button. On the left of the screen is a flyout menu. Click on the menu and select ‘Locate a Squadron.‘ Enter your ZIP code, call the local representative and go to a meeting.

Ignore the uniforms and ask for the education officer or the assistant education officer. That person will tell you what courses their Squadron has to offer and when they meet. Tell them Jib Davidson from the Gainesville Sail and Power Squadron sent you and enjoy your newfound knowledge.

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

41

Cooking Fish With a Solar Cooker On Board

By William Potts

Cooking with the solar oven. Photo by Willaim Potts.

A

s my nephew Ben said when we turned north to return to Dauphin Island after a near-perfect overnight Gulf Stream fishing trip, “Every trip from now on will be downhill, Uncle Billy. It can’t get better than this!”

Indeed, it had been a dream trip. With 1-2 foot seas, 510 mph winds and scattered, pop-up showers, the Gulf was typical for early July. We could have water-skied the entire trip, it was so calm. At day’s end, a breathtakingly beautiful sunset moved through reds, oranges and pinks to finish with brilliant, silver-edged clouds pointing the way for the full moon, which appeared shortly after nightfall.

We began fishing about an hour before dark, still in green water, with a plethora of 25-35 pound amberjacks in a feeding-frenzy. They exhausted the arms and wrists of even our young, athletic fishermen, and after about an hour we had caught our limit. By 11 p.m., we were 95 miles out in 6,000 feet of crystal-clear, blue-purple water. The full moon danced in and out from behind invisible clouds, and the yellow-fin tuna began with a WHAM! With the reel drag screaming, a 71-pound tuna took the bait and tried to rip the pole out of my nephew John’s grip. A classic, 45-minute struggle followed, ending with the exquisite creature on board, its body outlined by its neon yellow fins glowing in the moonlight as if lit from within. By the time the sky began to lighten, all six in our party had landed a 50-80 pound yellow-fin plus numerous smaller black-fin tunas, and everyone had pleasantly had enough fishing!

When the sun was up, we rigged for billfish trolling, and this easier fishing made it possible to think of other “yummy” things. Needless to say, during the 12 -14 hours we were catching fish, nobody stopped to prepare hot food!

So I fetched my SPORT solar oven from the cabin. We filleted an 8-pound black-fin into four, one-and-a-half inch thick, 1 pound fillets, placing two in each pot, topping each with butter, lemon juice, chopped flat parsley (curly is unacceptable!), and salt and pepper mixture. At 8:45 a.m., I put the fish in the oven , faced it toward the sun and relaxed. One hour later, the fish was perfectly done, pink-white in color and aromatically infused with hints of the parsley, lemon and butter. Typical of this oven, it was exceptionally moist and flaky. The SPORT solar oven cooks almost all foods, and an argument might be made that it may be a near per-

42

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

fect way to bake fish!

The Solar Oven Society offers its revolutionary SPORT solar oven for safe, fireless cooking of extraordinarily tasty and nutritious foods on boats of all types. The SPORT won’t rust. It is easy to stow and handle because it only weighs 11 pounds (with two pots), and most important, it does not have to be continually tended and refocused on the sun to cook. Just point it to the sun and in 2-4 hours almost any food is cooked! For boaters we recommend securing the oven with bungee cords in an out-of-the way spot when cooking while under way. The SPORT price is $98.97, including two pots and a thermometer. Shipping is approximately $24 in the continental United States. For more information and to order, contact us at www.solarovens.org or (612) 623-4700.

The Solar Oven Society is a non-profit organization and exists to promote solar cooking to the American public and to provide a way to partner with the over 2-billion people worldwide who lack adequate fuel for cooking their food.

Subscribe to

SOUTHWINDS $19.95/year $24/year

$37/2 Years $45/2 Years

3rd Class 1st Class

(941) 795-8704 • www.southwindssailing.com P.O. Box 1175, Holmes Beach, FL 34218-1175 Subscribe on line on our secure Web site with credit card www.southwindssailing.com Name ______________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________ City/St./ZIP _________________________________________ ENCLOSED $ ________ Check ___ Money Order ___ Visa/MC

#_________________________________________

Name on Card ______________________________________ Ex. Date _________ Signature _________________________ www.southwindssailing.com

New Model

Call for Boat Show Special Incentives

New 2005 HUNTER 38 Hull #108 in stock

Call for Boat Show Special Incentives

Call for Boat Show Special Incentives

Call for Boat Show Special Incentives

Call for Boat Show Special Incentives

New 4' 11" Wing Keel In Stock

New 2005 CATALINA 400 Hull #310 in stock

New 2005 HUNTER 44DS Hull #182 in stock

New 2005 CATALINA 42 Hull #897 in stock

New 2005 CATALINA 350 Hull #270 in stock

Buy now. Sail Tomorrow. Save Thousands. New is Better.

• • • • • • • •

New yacht discounts-all trades considered New design, construction and performance New electronics, A/C and gensets New flat screen TVs and DVDs New yacht financing at lowest rates New yacht custom outfitting Full factory/dealer warranties and on site service Free yacht systems and handling orientation

The best part of purchasing a new yacht is that it’s NEW and really costs about the same as buying a late model pre-owned yacht.

This is prime time for Florida yachting and your new Catalina or Hunter is ready to sail away, right now! Call or come by and discover the dollars and sense of owning a new yacht.

New is better.

New Location Now Open!

St. Pete, FL 727-824-7262 • TOLL-FREE 877-552-0525

Ft. Myers, FL 239-334-3674 TOLL-FREE 800-763-3157

SINCE 1977

www.masseyyacht.com Bill Wiard

Mary Beth Singh

Al Pollak

David Cole

Ben Fowke

Palmetto, FL 941-723-1610 • TOLL-FREE 800-375-0130

Brad Crabtree

Scott Pursell

Frank Hamilton

Dan Howland

Edward Massey

Visit Massey at the Strictly Sail St. Pete Boat Show – November 4-7 and the Ft. Myers Boat Show – November 11-14.

Purchase your Catalina, Hunter or Caliber and SAVE-SAVE-SAVE!

3 Massey Florida Locations

St. Pete Palmetto Ft. Myers

THREE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU ON FLORIDA’S WEST COAST – IN THE HEART OF AMERICA’S FINEST CRUISING AREA.

44

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

Introducing the World’s Most Spectacular NEW 38’ Cruiser With this unprecedented design, and our new optional Mariner Package, Hunter establishes the standards in the mid size cruising category.

We Go The Distance 386.462.3077 • Fax 386.462.4077 For Dealer/Product Information:

huntermarine.com -Building Daysailers through Passagemakers-

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

45

46

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

STRICTLY SAIL ST. PETERSBURG

November 4-7 Thursday-Saturday – 10am-6 pm Sunday – 10 am-5 pm Vinoy Park & Marina Downtown St. Petersburg FL on the water TICKETS:

$5 for kids 6-16 (ages 5 & under are free) 1-day adult Thurs/Fri – $10 1-day adult Sat/Sun – $12 2-day adult – $20 4-day adult – $36 Purchase tickets online at www.sailamerica.com DIRECTIONS: From Tampa Airport or I-275 south into St. Pete: Follow signs to Interstate 375 South exit to St. Petersburg (LEFT LANE exit). Follow exit until end, which merges into downtown St. Petersburg and becomes Fourth Ave N. Stay on Fourth St. N. in the LEFT LANE until the end. Turn left onto BEACH DRIVE. Take next RIGHT on FIFTH AVENUE

S

trictly Sail St. Pete, originally begun in 1992, has grown to be, not only one of the most popular boat shows in the country, but also the largest in-water sailboat show in the Southeast. Hundreds of sailboats will be on display in the water.

Its location in Vinoy Park, located on beautiful Tampa Bay in downtown St. Petersburg, is spectacular.

Besides a large array of exhibitors displaying almost every piece of boat hardware and equipment imaginable, there will also be in-water opportunities, through the Discover Sailing program, for visitors to easily experience their first sail.

A series of seminars and special events are scheduled on many varied subjects including chartering in the Bahamas, cruising the Caribbean, navigation, maintenance, catamaran cruising, to name just several of the dozens offered.

For more boat show information and updated schedules, log on to www.sailamerica.com

Local News For Southern Sailors

STRICTLY SAIL ST. PETERSBURG SEMINAR SCHEDULE Seminars on a variety of sailing topics are being held continuously during the show. For more information and updated schedules and titles of these seminars go to www.sailamerica.com

OTHER EVENTS Discover Sailing

When: All days of the show Where: To be Announced Discover Sailing, a national introduction-to-sailing program will be going on each day at STRICTLY SAIL to help non-sailors take their first sail. Show-goers can go on free, 30-minute sailing trips and collect free, learn-to-sail materials and names of sailing schools where they can further their education.

Free Seminars

When: All days of the show Where: To be Announced Extensive seminar program that is broken into levels geared for all types of sailors — from sailors just starting out to the more experienced, advanced sailor. Log on to www.sailamerica.com for the latest seminar schedule.

Author’s Corner

When: All days of the show Where: Author’s Corner Booth Come meet some of your favorite sailing authors and pick up all of the most current sailing books!

Kids Aboard

Future boatbuilders? This free boatbuilding workshop for children ages 4 and older, teaches them to design and build their vessels. To find out more about this program, visit www.sailamerica.com.

Latitudes & Attitudes Cruiser’s Bash - Saturday night 7PM

Everyone at the show Saturday evening is invited to this notorious party. Enter to win a free Sunsail week in the Caribbean and a Hunter Liberty sailing skiff.

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

47

SOUTHEAST COAST SAILING Carolinas & Georgia Racing News & Calendar News for Sailors

Upcoming Events

SE Coast November Weather WATER TEMPERATURE Cape Hatteras, NC - 58° Savannah, GA - 64° AVERAGE TEMPERATURES Cape Hatteras, NC 52° lo - 64° hi Savannah, GA 47° lo - 71° hi For Real Time Southeast Coast Weather go to: www.ndbc.noaa.gov/Maps/ Southeast.shtml

November 12, 26. Adult Learn to Sail programs. Instruction on a 30-foot sailboat. North Carolina Maritime Musuem.

Beaufort, NC. (252) 728-7317. www.ah.dcr.state.nc.us/sections/maritime/main/events.htm

13

December 4 - Holiday Boat Parade, Beaufort, SC

15

Holiday Boat Parade along the Beaufort River in beautiful Beaufort, SC. Early bird registration is Friday, Nov. 12. Final deadline is Thursday, December 2, 5:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Mary Ragsdale, committee member/boater participant, (843) 252-3384; Rick Griffin, committee member/marina operator, (843) 524-4422 or the staff at Main Street Beaufort, USA, events@downtownbeaufort.com, (843) 525-6644 or www.downtownbeaufort.com.

18 20 21

NORTH CAROLINA

Lake Lanier GEORGIA

SOUTH CAROLINA

iW lmington

Beaufort

Charleston

Savannah SOUTHEAST COAST

November Prevailing Winds See page 85 for Windrose legend

BFSC Autumn Breeze #4 Barefoot Sailing Club. www.barefootsailing.org Bill Sears #6 – SSC Southern Sailing Club. www.strictlysailing.com/ssc13 Oyster Roast/Whitecapper Open – www.llsc.com Big Boat Regatta. Charleston Yacht Club, SC.. www.chyc.org Double-handed Race. Charleston Ocean Racing Association (CORA). www.charlestonoceanracing.org Lanier Cup. Lake Lanier, SC. Interclub Regatta. www.uyc-atl.org Solo #4. SSC Southern Sailing Club. www.strictlysailing.com/ssc

Racing Calendar NOVEMBER 6 6 6-7

11-14

48

Bill Sears #5. Southern Sailing Club. www.strictlysailing.com/ssc Joint Fall/Winter #3 Joint Series. AISC, BFSC, LLSC, UYC J/22 and J/24 Miss Piggy. LLSC, SC. www.llsc.com 45th Annual Midlands Regatta. Columbia Sailing Club, SC, www.columbiasailingclub.org.

Bloody Mary Thistle Regatta. WCSC. Hartwell Lake, SC. www.wcsc-sailing.org.

Flying Scott. Fall 48. LNYC. Lake Norman, NC. www.lakenormanyachtclub.com 2004 Ultimate 20 Nationals. LNYC. www.lakenormanyachtclub.com

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

SOUTHEAST COAST SAILING DECEMBER 4 5 11

Joint fall/winter series #4. AISC, BFSC, LLSC & UYC Bill Sears Makeup Race. SSC. www.strictlysailing.com/ssc Joint fall/winter series #5. AISC, BFSC, LLSC & UYC

Race Report Tybee Island, GA, hosts the North American Catamaran National Championships Oct. 4-7

By Walt McFarlane

T

he North American Catamaran National Championships were held from Oct. 4-7 at Tybee Island, GA. A total of 40 boats from around the United States and Canada competed in the four classes of the North American Catamaran Racing Association (NACRA) catamarans (20s, F18s, 17s and 5.5s).

The first day of competition was very slow. The seas were so smooth, one could see the reflections of the boats on the dark green waters off Tybee beach. One race was completed, but due to the low wind velocity the second race was abandoned.

Nearly perfect racing conditions met the crews on the second day. The sky was mostly sunny with temperatures reaching the middle 80s. Seas were running 1-2 feet, and the wind averaged between 8 to 10 knots coming out of the northwest. Races 2 – 6 were ran. Even though the weather was great, the racers were glad when the long day came to an end.

Day three was an altogether different situation. Seas were running between 3 and 5 feet, with the wind still blowing out of the northwest, but at 15-plus knots. The temperature may have cooled down (middle to high 70s), but the competition really heated up. Races 7 – 9 were run, and it was a show of true skill and seamanship.

Bob Curry, running in the NACRA 17 class, had won every race to date, and on this day maneuvered his catamaran through the heavy weather with ease and grace. He would lengthen his lead to assure himself victory over the other 14 boats racing against him.

In the NACRA 5.5 class, Eric Kennedy was also pulling away from his fleet when in the last race of the day a hard collision with the committee boat caused his catamaran to capsize. We all held our breath as he pulled himself up and onto the port hull. He was not injured, and his craft had not sustained any major damage. Eric withdrew and beached his boat. He was still in the lead but now only by a few points.

His was not the only boat to go over. The sea was brutal, and many crews went for a dip in the Atlantic. One catamaran suffered a broken boom, yet its crew recovered and finished the race, while still another craft pitch-poled (end over end) as it was coming in for the finish.

At the end of this day only two points separated Skipper Nigel Pitt and his crewman Alex Shafer, sailing in the NACRA 20 class, from Skipper Steve Lohmayer and his crewman Kenny Pierce. While in the NACRA F18 class, a tie had developed between Skipper Marc Kennedy and crewman Frank

Local News For Southern Sailors

Greg Ferrara and Nora Zellmer from New England sail in the NACRA F18 class at the North American Catamaran National Championships in Tybee Island. Photo by Walt McFarlane.

Burns and Skipper Mike Krantz and crewman Kenny Pierce.

On the last day of the competition the winds had increased to between 18 and 20 knots. Seas were still about 3 to 5 feet, but there was concern that they could become higher. The last races got under way, and the crews performed as skillfully as the days before. As expected Bob Curry finished number one for the day, and took the North American Nationa Championship in the NACRA 17 class. Eric Kennedy returned from his near-disastrous accident the day before to maintain his lead to become the NACRA 5.5 class North American Champion.

The two most exciting and close races were those of the NACRA 20 and F18 classes. Both went down to the wire.

Skipper Nigel Pitt and his crewman Alex Shafer sailed very skillful and tactful races, thereby winning their last two and becoming the NACRA 20 class North American champions.

The NACRA F18 class was the closest, where Skipper Marc Kennedy and crewman Frank Burns edged out their nearest rival by only two points to capture their North American Championship.

REGIONAL EDITOR WANTED to report on sailing in the Carolinas and Georgia covering racing and other sailing news. Contact editor@southwindssailing.com

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

49

SOUTHEAST COAST SAILING So ended four days of world class competition and to all sailors, powerboat crews, committee members, and staff, very well done!

Results : NACRA 20 top 3 finishers: 1ST, Nigel Pitt and Alex Shafer, 2ND, Steve Lohmayer and Kenny Pierce, 3RD ,John Casey and Jim Novak. NACRA F18 top 3 finishers: 1ST, Marc Kennedy and Frank Burns, 2nd,,Mike Krantz and David Lennard, 3RD, Jake Kohl and Tony Vandenoever. NACRA 17 top 3 finishers: 1ST, Bob Curry, 2ND, Bill Gillespie, 3RD, Chris Sawyer. NACRA 5.5 top 3 finishers: 1ST Eric Kennedy, 2ND Rush Bird, 3RD Ryan Visser.

The Sea Dog Barefoot Open – The Best of the Best!

By Ron Michellete

T

he Barefoot Sailing Club’s (BFSC) 30th annual fall regatta began on Friday, Oct. 4, with record attendance, including the skippers and their crew, plus an impressive presence of the club’s cruiser fleet, whose members hosted their own Saturday morning breakfast for the racers.

The racing fleets were rewarded with moderate winds during the race on Saturday, which was followed by what can only be described as an exquisite evening party featuring a delicious array of Mexican food contributed by one of the clubs consistent sponsors, Jocks & Jills Sports Grill. another consistent sponsor, Barefoot Cellars of California supplied the wine. All the skippers and their crews gathered back at the clubhouse after the race on Sunday for an outdoor cookout and the awards ceremony.

Sea Dog Sailing Inc. (www.seadogsailing.com) was the regatta’s key sponsor. ASA sailing school and Caribbean charter service, Christensen Design, Aqualand Marina, Elvstrom Sobstad and Sunrise Cove Marina, whose club facilities are regularly used by BFSC for on-the-lake events, were other sponsors of the regatta..

This year’s regatta also included a vendor’s tent where vendor/sponsors could display their wares, including Snug Harbor Brokers and Sales Co.. A record 64 racers participated in two classes over the two-day event, which featured the new JS9000 as one of the big attractions.

Results (Top three. For complete results go to www.barefootsailing.org.):

Multi-Hull & Sport Boats; 1, Kessler, Doug, LIBERTY 3 Melges 24; 2, Vandall, Frank, BAD INFLUENCE, Melges 24; 3, Burgess, John, JS9000, JS9000: Sport Boats; 1, Bell, Greg, FUGAWEE, Elliot 770; 2, Weaver, Chuck, DREAM WEAVER, Elliot 770; 3, Leetzow, Joel, RACER X, Elliot 770; Low Spinnaker; 1, Holcomb, Dean, JUST FRIENDS, Lindenberg 28; 2, McCarthy, John, INIKI, Soverel 33; 3, Postell, Andrew, FLYING CIRCUS, Pearson Flyer;

Mid Spinnaker; 1, Davis, Ray, RAY-LIN, Hunter 2, 8.5; 2, Grande, Jerry, BA DA BING, J-24; 3, Reynolds, Mike, YEAH BABY!, Santana 525; High Spinnaker; 1, Terrel, Robin, MARMOTTA, Capri 22; 2, Collins, Edith, SWAMP FOX, Santana 20; 3, Webster, Linda, SUNDANCE, S2, 6.7; Low Non-Spinnaker, PHRF 0 - 186; 1, Freeman, Jeff, RENEGADE, Soverel 33;2, Lanier, Darryl, INSTIGATOR, Capri 25;3, Iuvone, Mike, STREGA, Hunter 30;High NonSpinnaker, PHRF 187 & Up;1, Schurenburg, Kurt, BEAU GUST, Catalina 27 TM;2, DeLorme, Dave, BANDIT, Catalina 22 ; 3, Godden, Consuelo, HOKEY SMOKE, San Juan 23 ; J-2, 2, Fleet, White;1, Meyhoefer, Doug, HIGHLANDER, J-22; 2, Munson, Mark, UPGRADE, J-22; 3, Palmer, Grant, WOO-HOO, J-22;Sea Scouts JY-1, 5 Fleet, Red ;1, Webber, Paul, , JY 15;2, Barker, Tim, , JY 15;3, Hinton, Tom, , JY 15; Portsmouth Fleet, Blue;1, Barrett, Caryl, HER FD, Flying Dutchman;2, Stage, David, Flying Dutchman; 3, Schonagen, Randy, Flying Dutchman.

5th Annual Special Olympics of Georgia Regatta, Sept. 10-12; Lake Sydney Lanier is Rocking!

By Ron Michellette

Renegade sails in the Special Olympics Regatta. Photo by Mark Williams.

T

he 5th annual Special Olympics of Georgia (SOGA) regatta was held on Lake Lanier during the weekend of Sept.

10-12. The good news is a record amount of money had been raised, just short of $50,000, combined with record regatta sponsors, participants and spectators. The event was hosted

by Emerson Network Power in conjunction with the event’s organizers, SOGA, who serve 22,406 Georgia athletes in 23 sports.

Five sailing clubs participated in the event. They include the Barefoot Sailing Club (BFSC), Southern Sailing Club (SSC), Lake Lanier Sailing Club (LLSC), University Yacht Club (UYC) and the Lanier Sailing Association (LSA).

The Southern Sailing Club introduced a welcomed new racing class for big cruisers. This class provided a competitive opportunity for big boats, which would not have participated in the traditional high and low spinnaker and non-spinnaker fleet events.

The weather certainly cooperated with moderate winds of 8-12 knots and clear skies. Steve O’Hagan and his team of five will enjoy a week’s vacation, provided by Conch Charters, aboard a Beneteau 405, for raising most of money, $2,304. Steve Sudderth won the winning skipper raffle and will be vacationing in Antigua, compliments of Sunsail’s Club Colonna. The Barefoot Sailing Club won the trophy for having raised the most money of any of the clubs that participated. And all the skippers, who qualified by raising and/or

See SOUTHEAST COAST SAILING continued on page 84 50

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

Regional Sailing Services Directory Sailing Services Directory starts as low as $8 a month.

Call (941) 795-8704 or e-mail editor@southwindssailing.com APPLIANCE REPAIR

Boat Appliance Repair Serving the Gulf Coast Specializing in Marine Appliances 90-day Warranty Ken Dunlap, Owner Cell: (228) 697-0991

CAPTAIN SERVICES CAPT. JIMMY HENDON (727) 459-0801 ASA Cert./BBC Instruction * USCG Lic. Master Deliveries • Gulf • Atlantic • Caribbean (866) 221-2841 captainjimmy@gosolo.com

FISHING GUIDES FL KEYS BACKCOUNTRY TRIPS With Pro Guide Capt. “BR” Exploring, Sportfishing, Birding (305) 304-2258 www.keywest-sportfish.com

MARINE DIESEL SERVICE INLAND MARINE DIESEL....................Atlanta Service/Parts for all makes of diesel auxiliary New Engine Sales–Universal, Vetus, Yanmar, and Westerbeke.......................(404) 513-4414

MARINE SURVEYORS

SAILMAKING, REPAIRING & CLEANING

John Kelly Serving the Carolinas CHARTERS DOYLE PLOCH SAILS (800) 717-1406 NAMS Certified Marine Surveyor. 100-ton New Sails, Service & Repairs - since 1978 ocean master & offshore catamaran owner ARRIVE JAX ALLTEL STADIUM IN STYLE 3000 Gandy Blvd. - St. Petersburg In a 40-ft cruising Catamaran w/licensed Capt. www.yachtsurveyor.com.........(910) 392-5054 Pick-up/return at your/my dock. Also available GESLIN SAILMAKERS (305) 294-5854 for concerts.............................(352) 475-1033 New Sails, Service & Repairs OUTBOARD MOTOR REPAIR 201 William St. – Key West

COMMUNICATIONS DockSide Radio www.docksideradio.com Pactor II/III Modem Sales & Support; FCC Marine Radio License filing; SailMail & WinLink Installation & Training.............(941) 661-4498 CUSTOM BOAT SERVICES

Boaters Exchange East Florida All brands, specializing in Honda, Suzuki, Tohatsu, and Nissan.

“The friendlist outboard repair on the East Coast!”

Rockledge...........................(321) 638-0090

RIGGING SERVICES

SUNRISE SAILS PLUS WEST FLORIDA Complete Yacht Outfitting Service Sails – New, Repair, Cleaning Complete rigging service, masts, cushions, canvas & more (941) 721-4471 sunrisesailsplus@msn.com

SUPER SAILMAKERS FORT LAUDERDALE Quality custom sails, repairs since 1973 East Florida (800) 541-7601................supersailmakers.com

Beach St.Canvas/Rigging Rigging, Canvas, Sails, Sail Repair Daytona Beach, Florida............(386) 253-6322 Wind Dancer Sailmakers NE Florida Sailmaking and repairs Jacksonville, FL........................(904) 384-3102

SAILING INSTRUCTION/SCHOOLS

Floridaze Sailing School Pensacola ASA * Basic Instructon through chartering www.floridazesailing.com .......(850) 934-7924

1" Tall AD - $20 a Month 2" Tall Ad - $34 a Month Call (941) 795-8704

Windward Sailling School NE Florida ASA Instructor of the year 2002-2003 Certifications from basic sailing through Bareboat Chartering, Keelboat, etc. www.windwardsailing.com Fernandina Beach, FL............(904) 261-9125

ADVERTISE FOR $8-$10 A MONTH Rent a three-line ad for $8 a month – a four-line ad for $10 a month Call (941) 795-8704

ADVERTISE YOUR SAILING SERVICES IN OUR NEW DIRECTORY. CONTACT: Steve Morrell editor@southwindssailing.com (941) 795-8704

See the sample ads in the directory above for prices. See page 79 for cost of 2" boxed-in ads and larger (display classifieds) Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

51

EASTERN FLORIDA COAST

Jacksonville

Daytona

Racing News & Calendar News for Sailors

Eastern Florida November Weather WATER TEMPERATURE Daytona Beach - 71° Jacksonville Beach - 67° GULFSTREAM CURRENT 1.8 knots AVERAGE TEMPERATURES Daytona Beach 50° lo - 77° hi Jacksonville Beach 56° lo - 72° hi For Real Time East Florida Coast Weather go to: www.ndbc.noaa.gov/Maps/ Florida.shtml

Upcoming Events NOVEMBER Area D South Alter Cup Trials, Melbourne, FL, Scott/Dior Hubel of Performance Sail and Sport.

Registration deadline is Oct 31. www.perfsail.com or (321) 253-3737.

6–7 Cruise to Fort Pierce City Marina.

Eau Gallie Yacht Club. Contact Capt. Chuck Kuhlman: bckuhl@earthlink.net.

Melbourne

November Prevailing Winds See page 85 for Windrose legend

River Challenge. East Coast Sailing Association http://www.sail-race.com/ecsa/ 7 Fall Women’s Race #1. East Coast Sailing Association. www.ecsasail.com/racing.php 7 Winter Rum Race Series begins. Melbourne Yacht Club. Series continues Sundays every other week. www.sail-race.com/ 6 River Challenge. East Coast Sailing Association. www.sail-race.com/ecsa/ 7 Mermaid Regatta (rescheduled).

Melbourne Yacht Club. www.sail-race.com/ 12-15 Lipton Cup. Offshore Racing. www.smyrnayachtclub.com.

21 – 21 Pinedaville Cruise, East Coast Sailing Association. (Overnight cruise in Indian River near Pineda Causeway) www.ecsasail.com/cruise_details.php?cruise name=pinedaville 6

DECEMBER Gator Bowl Regatta. Rudder Club, Jacksonville. www.rudderclub.com 5 Fall Women’s Race #2. East Coast Sailing Association. www.ecsasail.com/racing.php 31-Jan 2 New Year’s Cruise. East Coast Sailing Association. www.ecsasail.com/cruise.php 4–5

52

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

EASTERN FLORIDA COAST

Surviving the Hurricanes It’s been said we all get 15 minutes of fame

By Jody L. Alu

I

t’s been said we all get 15 minutes of fame. But not all of us really want it! Take Rick for example. Everybody has a story to tell and I’m including his…

My husband and I had been visiting my mom in Daytona Beach the weekend after Hurricane Jeanne. It had been hit first by Charley exiting from its entry point at Punta Gorda, then second and third by the “dirty” sides of both Frances and Jeanne. Daytona Marine and Boat Works on Beach Street took a bad hit from the storms, and several of the boats that were in storage were damaged. We encountered blown-out souvenir shops, condos, motels and other businesses up and down the strip on A1A. But no beach!

The world’s most famous beach was noted for its early days of auto racing, and now the opportunity for everyone to drive on it is no more. Will it ever come back? Only time will tell.

On our drive home to Fort Lauderdale we thought it would be interesting to take U.S. 1 from Melbourne south to see what devastation three hurricanes in six weeks had brought to Florida’s east coast. Crossing the bay on SR 518, we encountered what had once been a lovely powerboat crushed against the bridge. Speaking with the locals, we discovered the owner had taken it into the bay for Frances and survived quite nicely. Remember though, that Frances hit farther south in Lake Wales and West Palm Beach. So he attempted that tactic again with Jeanne but with drastically different results. This sweet recreational boat was now being salvaged, but with no word on what finally would happen to her. Just a few feet away we discovered a small sailboat sunken to her deck. Void of her masts, she sat solemn and desolate, waiting to be reclaimed.

Across the bridge we encountered two houseboats submerged at their moorings in their home marina. What an eerie feeling to see the lines and power cables still attached while these boats sat at the bottom of the canal. Speaking with the owner of the marina, he told us they were extremely lucky that these were the only casualties they experienced. However, we were told to continue heading south on U.S. 1 and to be prepared for what we were about to see. I want to thank Ed for that warning.

We live aboard our 45-foot Hardin ketch and had tied her off securely while we also rode out the poundings these three hurricanes and Ivan were giving our state. But we gained a newfound appreciation for the intensity and severity we could have encountered if any of them had headed just a few degrees south. We were spared the ferocity and destruction these acts of nature handed out in such a short period of time.

By the time we reached Palm Bay and Indian River, we were seeing mass chaos everywhere. Trees down, roofs ripped off, mobile homes splintered on the ground, the northbound lane of U.S. 1 closest to the Intracoastal closed off and slumping toward the water. And then we saw the boats…sitting on shore as if they had been lifted up by a crane and thrown down on the ground. One right after

Local News For Southern Sailors

The new Daytona Beach. Not much room for driving. Photo by Jody Alu. another, some sitting in tall weeds, some slammed up against trees, and of course…Rick’s…sitting on the southbound side of U.S. 1.

Rick’s boat was/is a custom-built catamaran, one of three he and two partners built. Just three months in the water and four hours on the engine, he had recently erected his jib and was looking forward to continuing his 16 years of liveaboard life, this time on the boat of his dreams.

Dreams that were crushed in mere minutes when Jeanne ripped this beautiful vessel out of the water and sent her careening across the highway, rolling her three times and

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

53

EASTERN FLORIDA COAST buckling her hull in the process. Her forespar mast snapped in four places and lay littered about the area with the other debris from the hurricane. With stanchions and railings bent and missing, holes in her hull, and a sick feeling still in his stomach, Rick told jokes and laughed with us as he talked about her, just to keep from crying. Some way to celebrate a birthday…Rick turns 69-years-young today as I write this, one day after meeting him.

As we talked, Rick gave my husband Joe and I strength in our conviction to live on the water. At times we have wondered if being back on land might be the more sensible thing to do, but listening to him and the stages he has been through in only one week – from his first thought of abandoning or selling his boat, to knowing now that he is going to rebuild her – made us realize that this is a life we have chosen because it is in our blood and in our hearts. Living on our boat, risking the perils that Mother Nature throws at us, and knowing that whatever the outcome, it is where we want to be. Rick promised to keep in touch. If he does, we’ll keep you updated on his progress and his goal to once again live the life he loves.

Heading south once more, our next encounter was at a roadside park where a small sailboat and a large houseboat had banged up on shore. Locals there told us the sailboat had been spotted drifting up north near Cocoa Beach during Charley, so I wasn’t sure how long she had been loose from her moorings, but her home port was Fort Pierce. I was able to lean over her and peek inside the open companionway. Everything still looked intact – from dishes in the open cupboards to clothes and cushions in the main salon. All her rigging still stood, and she didn’t appear to be heavily damaged. Someone had taped his business card to her with a note, “I buy boats.” Joe and I discussed that it was refreshing she hadn’t been cannibalized. We noted that in earlier eras the locals would have pirated any abandoned boat they found as a way to survive. It certainly is a different day and age.

We were told by Ed at our first marina to keep an eye out for this one—Mike’s Marine Repair and Ship Store in the Sebastian/Indian River area. Mike’s is destroyed. What a tragedy! Like the Riviera Beach Municipal Marina in Palm Beach County, which sustained heavy damage to its docks and roofs, folks with boats in many dry-storage buildings for safekeeping found that Jeanne didn’t have any sympathy for them, either.

All along U.S. 1 we saw docks destroyed and piers dangling precariously in and on the water. I’m sure many hulls lay at the bottom of these bays as well. Navigating haz-

54

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

Rick’s trimaran across the road. Photo by Jody Alu.

Along the Indian River. Photo by Jody Alu.

A sailboat in Melbourne. Photo by Jody Alu. ardous waters filled with debris, water-logged trees and shifting sandbars as well as destroyed or damaged channel markers will now be a challenge faced by Florida boaters on both the east and west coasts. Even Port Canaveral’s entrance was blocked by a shoal deposited in the aftermath of Hurricane Frances. Removal was nearly complete when Jeanne came along. The Canaveral Port Authority expects to have the Port cleared and opened again in early October.

Nobody should need to be told what all of this means, but many officials have already expressed concern that residents will not heed the warnings, and they remain on the alert to educate the population about the intensity and destruction category hurricanes can cause. People should not become lax in their preparations when tropical storms are predicted in their area. Those of us who love our boats, some of us who live on our boats, and anyone who simply enjoys the waterways has to be alert and vigilant to the fact that our location makes us susceptible to potentially devastating and deadly weather conditions any time of the year, but especially during hurricane season. www.southwindssailing.com

✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯

Floating concrete docks Locker boxes,Water, 30, 50 & 100 amp power 24 hour security Diesel & gasoline fuel dock Pump out station Mimi-market, laundromat, ice machines Full bathrooms Just 30 min. south of cancun & 30 min. north of Playa del Carmen Approach Bouy: 020º 48' 302" N 086º 52' 898" W

Info: www.elcid.com Email: elcidcaribe@prodigy.net.mx Url: marinas.elcid.com Phone: (998) 871-0184 Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

55

SOUTHEAST FLORIDA SAILING Racing News & Calendar News for Sailors Southeastern Florida November Weather WATER TEMPERATURE Miami - 76° GULFSTREAM CURRENT 1.9 knots AVERAGE TEMPERATURES Miami Beach 70° lo - 78° hi For Real Time East Florida Coast Weather go to: www.ndbc.noaa.gov/Maps/ Florida.shtml

Upcoming Events & Calendar To have your event, sailing news or business brief published in this section, contact editor@southwindssailing.com

Racing Calendar To have your race, regatta, or club races listed, please contact editor@southwindssailing.com by the 10th of the month. Races listed should be open to anyone.

NOVEMBER 6

Miami. BBYRA #10 (One Design). Host CRYC. Coral Reef Yacht Club’s annual regatta open to all one-design boats. Start time 11:30 a.m. Winter schedule. Part of the BBYRA Annual Regatta Series.

7 Miami. BBYRA #10 (PHRF). Host CRYC. Coral reef Yacht Club’s annual regatta open to all cruising and PHRF boats. Start time 11:30 a.m. Winter schedule. Part of the BBYRA Annual Regatta Series.

13 Miami. Nielsen Virgin & Hughes Cup Women’s Regatta. Host CRYC PHRF and one-design fleet racing open to all boats. Start time yet to be determined. For further details contact CRYC. 16 – 17 Miami. PHRF SE Florida Championship. Host CGSC. Third annual two-day event taking place in Biscayne Bay. Start time to be announced. For more information contact Southeast PHRF.

West Palm Beach

November Prevailing Winds See page 85 for Windrose legend

Fort Lauderdale Miami

Miami. Commodore’s Cup Star. The 24th annual Star Class Championship to be held in Biscayne Bay. Dates are tentative.

11 BBYRA One Design #11. KBYC. One-design class racing open to all registered fleets. Start time 11:30 a.m.

12 Miami. BBYRA PHRF#11. KBYC. PHRF/Cruising fleet racing open to registered boats. Start time 11:30 a.m.

18 Miami. BBYRA Makeup Date for Second Series.

PHRF/Cruising class makeup race. Start time 11:30 a.m.

27 – 30 Miami. Orange Bowl Regatta. CRYC & CGSC. The 25th event. CGSC hosts the Lightning, Adult Lasers and Radials. CRYC hosts the annual youth regatta (IODA) and International Youth Regatta (Laser, Laser Radial, Club 420 and 29ers.)

4–5

Legend – Yacht Clubs & Organizations BBYC Biscayne Bay Yacht Club. www.expage.com/BiscayneBay BBYRA Biscayne Bay Yacht Racing Association. www.bbyra.net CCA Cruising Club of America. www.cruisingclub.org CDRC Columbus Day Race Committee. www.columbusdayregatta.net CGSC Coconut Grove Sailing Club. www.cgsc.org CRYC Coral Reef Yacht Club. www.coralreefyachtclub.org MYC Miami Yacht Club. www.miamiyachtclub.net

DECEMBER 2

4–5

56

Ft Lauderdale. Wirth Monroe Palm Beach Race.

SCF/CCA (Cruising) The 48th annual ocean race will take place in Fort Lauderdale. Starting line will be off Fort Lauderdale with the finish set up off Palm Beach. The race is open to all cruising boats.

Miami. Piana Cup. BBYC. First Regatta of the Jaguar Cup Series for the Etchell Class. The eighth annual regatta by the Etchell fleet #20 is celebrating the lifetime achievement of our own Luis Piana of CYRC, elected to honors life membership of the international class association, an honor shared by only three others in the history of the class.

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

Race Report BBYRA One Design #8, Oct. 2, Miami

A

fter three long months of inactivity, the one-design fleet was the first to get a race off without the threat of a hurricane. Anxious sailors in the Flying Scot, Lightning and Snipe classes showed up ready to get back into racing. The www.southwindssailing.com

SOUTHEAST FLORIDA COAST long, summer layover, added to the constant threat of hurricanes during the month of August, caused the suspension of various planned sailing activities.

Under blue, sunny conditions typical of this time of year, the race committee was able to get three races off for the day. Missing in action were the Etchell and Westphal classes that opted to stay away. In the Lightning class the competition was fierce with three different boats winning races. By the end of the day, sailmaker Eamonn de Lissar aboard Main Squeeze beat out rival Frank Atkinson.

The Snipe class was a two-boat race between Ken Voss and veteran Augie Diaz, trading first-and second-place finishes all afternoon. Ken was able to hold off Augie in the last race to win the regatta.

Results: Flying Scot; 1, Enigma/Bud Price; 2, Margaritaville/Larry Whipple: Lightning; 1, Main Squeeze/Eamonn de Lisser; 2, Ant Farm/Frank Atkinson; 3, MachII/Bill Mauk: Snipe; 1, 16606/Ken Voss; 2, 30288/Augie Diaz; 3, Por Una Cabeza/Gonzo Diaz Sr.

2004 Florida State Junior Championship, Sept. 2-3, Miami

E

ight teams sailed for the 2004 Florida State Junior Championship held on Biscayne Bay. Enrique Quintero of Coral Reef Yacht Club won the event after six hardfought races during the two-day regatta, sailing the windward-leeward courses like a true veteran.

At the start of Saturday’s race the wind didn’t look promising with the race committee flags barely moving, but after an hour’s wait, the breeze filled in and four races were held in varying wind conditions.

On Sunday, despite the forecast and the lack of wind, the race committee insisted and, after a short delay, the starting signal was given. The winds fed by a small storm increased in strength to 10-12 knots by the start of the fifth race. By the conclusion of the event, everyone was relieved to be sailing once again without the threat of a hurricane looming out in the ocean.

New Sailing Program for People with Disabilities at Broward Community College

A

new sailing program has been formed for people with disabilities at Broward Community College Tigertail Center. The Tradewinds Foundation has partnered with Broward Community College to provide boating opportunities and marine-related education for individuals with special needs and children at risk. Ongoing programs will be provided with funding and consultation by the Tradewinds Foundation and operated by Broward Community College. For more information contact Debra Frenkel at (954) 561-7004 or dfrenkel@tradewindsfoundation.org or www.tradewindsfoundation.org.

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

57

SOUTHEAST FLORIDA COAST

Ocean Watch:

You Too Can Play a Vital Role in Saving Our Ocean and Beaches

By Keith Fletcher, keith@oceanwatch.org

O

ceanfront residents, beachfront property owners or even those living a few blocks off the beach and all beachgoers: Why do you live here? Seems like a very simple question and one that nearly all can agree on. Of course, the answer is, the OCEAN. Sure, there are some rough days with high winds, but to live so close is such a pleasure. It is a refreshing solace to see the sunrise over the water, to wake up to warm, fresh ocean breezes, and just to gaze at the beauty of such a simple picture—water and beach.

As simple as those two elements seem, the ocean ecosystem is not simple. It is vibrant with life and full of energy. It is a living entity that needs to be taken care of.

Sure, Mother Nature could do the job all by herself, if there were no human encroachment. But even with people contributing to its destruction and loss of beauty for future generations, we can also help take a little part in conserving our little oasis of the Southeast United States where millions flock to from all over the world.

All Floridians and tourists reap rewards from the ocean views, beaches, coral reefs, and recreational water sports.

This is just one reason why we need to preserve and protect it. Every day people go to the beach and ocean for its beauty, but each day it gets more and more polluted by people.

The beautiful coral reefs off our Florida shores are especially in danger.

Coral reefs are some of the most valuable places on earth, and they are in crisis. As one of the most spectacular and ancient forms of life in the world, coral reefs provide a home for over 4,000 species of fish, 700 species of coral, and thousands of other marine flora and fauna.

Too often, the beautiful, ecologically-sensitive reefs off South Florida’s east coast are the victims of careless boating and recreational use, as well as on-going pollution. These delicate reefs benefit from the cleanup efforts of the Annual Reef Sweep and Beach Clean-Up sponsored by Ocean Watch Foundation, which will be Saturday, June 12, of this year and many of its other programs. Ocean Watch Foundation is a leading Broward County marine environmental organization.

It is the efforts of Ocean Watch and many of its mem-

58

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

bers and volunteers who commit time to see that our beaches and reefs are still amazing to look at. You, too, can help in preserving the reason why we live so close to the water. It could be as simple as bringing an empty bag with you when you walk along the beach. Fill the bag with cigarette butts, cans, and the numerous other pieces of trash you see littering the beach. It not only provides you with some benefits of exercise, but it gives you a positive feeling that the efforts of just one person can help contribute to the beauty of the beach for future generations. It is not uncommon to see people picking up after others, and Ocean Watch personally applauds their efforts.

Since its first Annual Beach and Reef Sweep in 1989, Ocean Watch Foundation has hauled in more than 20-plus tons of harmful garbage, with more than 5,300 volunteers who have participated in the clean-up effort over the years.

Already a South Florida tradition, local charter boats, private boaters and beach walkers sweep our beaches and coral reefs clean from harmful garbage and debris.

There are many other programs Ocean Watch has, too.

Did you know Ocean Watch Foundation has programs such as fish identification classes for people who are interested in diving and taking part in research on our local fish populations? You need not be a diver, either. There have been many non-divers in the programs over the years who just want to learn what beauty lurks beneath the water out there. There are also other diving opportunities for scuba divers.

They also have a monofilament fishing line recycling program for fishermen to dispose of their used or broken line properly rather than letting it float in the ocean or come to our shores. Lost fishing line is a danger to marine life, divers and boat propellers. From 1996-2000, 163 turtles were found entangled, some 30-plus dolphins, hundreds of seabirds, and one in every five manatee rescues was a result of entanglement in monofilament.

Ocean Watch also was the organization that helped set up the mooring buoy system offshore to prevent anchor damage to our reefs. Now, boats can just tie up to the buoy rather than dropping anchors on living coral reefs. Ocean Watch continues to be actively involved in the mooring www.southwindssailing.com

SOUTHEAST FLORIDA COAST

buoy system by providing volunteers to perform inspections on them and alert the county of any needed maintenance.

There are many more programs that Ocean Watch has been involved in, and the best way to learn more about them is to visit www.oceanwatch.org, e-mail info@oceanwatch.org, or call (954) 467-1366. They have a New Member Orientation Social the second Tuesday of every month. You can become a member or urge your condo association to become involved. You can start your own Adopt-A-Shore program and organize with condo or community residents to help clean up certain areas of beach throughout the year.

All it takes is a few volunteers to get started and more will join. It is a great way to meet your neighbors, meet new friends, become a steward of the environment, and know you are doing good to help keep the beauty we have now always beautiful. Be proactive, get involved, and post a sign in your building for others to become involved or a note in your community newsletter. You can also sign up to receive Ocean Watch’s monthly e-mail newsletter, “FishTales and ReefSpeak,” free of charge by sending an email to keith@oceanwatch.org and mention you saw today’s story in SOUTHWINDS.

WHY ADVERTISE in

Coconut Grove Sailing Club Partners with Schools for Able and Disabled Students

T

he Coconut Grove Sailing Club is proud to announce a landmark partnership with Miami-Dade Public Schools.

The program, the Coconut Grove Sailing Club Marine Science Academy, will provide both able and disabled students from across Miami-Dade County schools with an opportunity to learn and experience water sports yeararound.

The program kicks off Monday, October 17, with students from North Miami Beach Senior High School.

Students will learn techniques on sailing, kayaking and snorkeling as well as environmental awareness, environmental laws, boat safety, marine robotics, marine archeology and possible careers in the marine industry.

The Coconut Grove Sailing Club Marine Science Academy will feature an excellent 5-to-1 student to-teacher ratio and will provide students attending city schools a “first right of refusal” for access to the program.

SOUTHWINDS ?

Advertise in SOUTHWINDS

■ To increase sales.

■ To reach every sailor in the Southern sailing community.

■ To take advantage of the most cost-effective advertising rates in the country.

SOUTHWINDS is delivered to over 500 locations in 8 Southern states: yacht clubs and sailing associations, marinas, marine suppliers, sail lofts, yacht brokers, and other sailing-related businesses.

An additional 10,000 readers view SOUTHWINDS on the Internet each month.

Every issue is available monthly on our Web site, www.southwindssailing.com.

This includes all editorial and advertising pages. Since making the magazine available on the internet in 2003, more than 10,000 readers have been downloading the magazine each month. Hyperlinks in all advertising take readers straight to your Web site or e-mail address.

Nationwide delivery

SOUTHWINDS is delivered to every state (and the Virgin Islands) through subscriptions. Some readers have kept every issue since SOUTHWINDS was first published in November of 1993. Our subscription base continues to grow every month.

Opportunities for Advertisers

We offer several options for Advertisers ■ Display ads throughout the magazine ■ Classified display ads in the classifieds section ■ Our new, developing regional service directory, for local services available to sailors.

Contact your sales representative today.

Gary Hufford gary@southwindssailing.com • (727) 585-2814 Local News For Southern Sailors

Steve Morrell editor@southwindssailing.com • (941) 795-8704 SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

59

NORTHERN GULF COAST SAILING Florida Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas Racing News & Calendar News for Sailors

After the Storm of Hurricane Ivan

By Kim Kaminski

T

he hurricane season has hit Florida pretty hard this year. Four hurricanes in six weeks affecting all 67 counties within the state. The northern Gulf Coast region had to deal with a monster, a large and destructive storm known as Ivan.

This storm was appropriately named “Ivan the Terrible,” and it definitely lived up to its name (just like my dad when he played professional football for the Baltimore Colts. He was known by the same nickname).

I don’t think our northern Gulf Coast area will recover anytime soon.

Some of the damage that I have seen is heartbreaking and depressing. But that is nothing compared to the relief and gratitude that many people felt after surviving a storm of this magnitude. The survival stories are slowly trickling in – some

60

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

LOUSIANA MISSISSIPPI

TEXAS

Gulfport New Orleans

ALABAMA Mobile Pensacola

FLORIDA

NORTHERN GULF

Northern Gulf November Weather WATER TEMPERATURE - 65° AVERAGE TEMPERATURES Pensacola, FL 51° lo - 70° hi Gulfport, MS 51° lo - 70° hi For Northern Gulf Weather go to: www.csc.noaa.gov/coos/

November Prevailing Winds See page 85 for Windrose legend

The 28 to 35 foot storm surge placed boats in various locations throughout the city’s shorelines. The Stratum X from Savannah, GA, lies on top of the concrete retainer wall of the Palafox Pier facility. Photo by Kim Kaminski people rode out the storm in their homes; others evacuated enduring their own survival adventures on the road while some staked out a spot in a hurricane shelter. Some homes survived; others did not. And the boating community ...well, that’s just another tremendous loss that was inflicted by the wrath of Ivan.

My family and I decided to evacuate our homes in the Navy Point and Perdido communities, which was definitely a good decision. (Especially after seeing the damage that the 28to-35-foot storm surge did to our neighborhoods along with the losses that many of our friends and neighbors had to tolerate). We were forced to evacuate to the north and then made our way slowly toward the west to get out of the path of the storm and ended up in Laurel, MS. The mass exodus of people from Apalachicola, FL, to New Orleans, LA, left no hotel room, r.v. park or campground vacant, making it very difficult for my family and me to find a lodging place for the storm. What we did find is good old-fashioned “Southern Hospitality.” My friend Paul Thrash and his fiancée Sylvia were bunkered down in Hattiesburg, MS. After a quick cell phone call to Paul and Sylvia (luckily, my cell phone worked the entire time) to get a suggestion of where to go for shelter in Mississippi, we were given directions and made a short journey to Sylvia’s brother and sister-in-law’s (Eddie and Lynda Loper) BBQ restaurant called Eddie O’Neal’s Southern BBQ in Laurel, MS. Eddie had just opened up this community restaurant about eight months earlier and had a separate building with a dining room area he used for his karaoke nights at the restaurant. We were offered the little building as our hurricane shelter – complete with TV, bathroom, air-conditioning, www.southwindssailing.com

NORTHERN GULF COAST SAILING a refrigerator plus plenty of food, drink and hospitality.

Believe me, these two people were definitely angels sent to guide us through my family’s first hurricane together. (I had been through Erin, Opal and Georges and knew what to expect, but it was a different story for my brother, who is a quadriplegic, my 15-year-old nephew and my mom.) We stayed in the quiet little building – safe and secure through the strong winds (90 mph) and rain that raged outside throughout the evening .

The following day, as the weather began to clear, we were able to drive to Pass Christian, MS, to stay with relatives, who had returned home following the storm. I would be very remiss if I did not send out a big thank you to Eddie and Lynda Loper for their generosity and kindness during the storm. If anyone ever gets to Laurel, MS, please be sure to check out their quaint BBQ restaurant with the tropical atmosphere (and where we survived Hurricane Ivan).

I left my family in Pass Christian, MS, and headed to Pensacola to assess the damages to our home. Luckily, our guardian angels were watching over us in Pensacola as well since both my home and my family’s home was spared any significant damage. However, Applejack, the 36-foot Hunter sailboat that I sailed and raced on for almost 10 years, did not fare as well. Many of the boats in the Pensacola area did not survive Hurricane Ivan.

Over the course of the next few days, I was able to survey the damages to several of the area’s boating locations.

One of the first locations I saw, the Bahia Mar Marina dry storage facility, was flattened by the storm. The Pensacola Yacht Club building was still standing, but many of the old oak trees that surround the structure were lying across the entrance road and across the grounds of the facility. The docks were ravaged, and there were boats scattered along the shore. (On a special side note: the Pensacola Yacht Club was grateful that their facility was spared and offers their clubhouse location to other area yacht club members as well as the Pensacola Country Club for the next six months.)

The Navy Yacht Club building, located on the Pensacola Naval Air Station, looked as if it was still standing as I gazed across the Bayou Grande waterway, but several of the boats that were secured in the marina were stacked up like playing cards along the concrete sea wall. There was even a sailboat propped up against some trees along the small island to the right of the entrance channel. Applejack had been moored in the waters off the Navy facility and ended up resting against several trees in the backyard of a home in an old residential neighborhood community known as Warrington. Applejack’s rudder had been ripped and torn – the prop and propeller twisted like a pretzel. Her mast was lying next to the boat in three pieces. It was quite a sad end to a great sailing vessel.

The Grand Lagoon Yacht Club was still standing, but the marina docks were mangled, and the boats were washed across the road into the Holy Spirit Catholic Church’s front yard. Rod and Reel Marina’s dry storage facility was nothing but a mass of ripped metal and multiple sections of boats.

From the pictures I could find of the Pensacola Beach Yacht Club, its building was still standing, but the marina was gone, along with any signs of any type of boat (just a lone building on stilts surrounded by flat sand).

I don’t know what the complete status of the Point Yacht Club in Josephine, AL, might be as the roads to the area were closed, but the quaint little yacht club that was located just to the north of Orange Beach, AL, was one of the hardest hit locaLocal News For Southern Sailors

tions. (Looking at the pictures that were posted on their yacht club Web site www.pointyachtclub.org. Ivan was not kind.)

Hurricane Ivan will be a storm that our area will remember for many years to come. But knowing how much we love our town and our neighbors, we will probably roll up our sleeves, remain in our homes and rebuild our community. My heart and prayers go out to all of those who lost so much during this horrendous act of nature. Stay safe, and I will look forward to the next time we can relax and enjoy our area’s sailor’s paradise.

Upcoming Events NOVEMBER 5–7

6-30

13

Florida Seafood Festival. Apalachicola, FL. The festival features delicious seafood and arts and crafts exhibits, oyster eating, oyster shucking, a parade, a 5k Redfish Run and a Blessing of the Fleet. (888) 6538011. www.floridaseafoodfestival.com Gulf States Model Boat Exhibit. Annual event featuring model-boat builders and various boat models with weekend demonstrations by model-boat builders. Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, 115 1st St, Biloxi, MS. (228) 435-6320.

Let’s Make Waves Party and Silent Auction. The 13th Annual Save our Lake, Lake Pontchartrain Foundation Party and Silent Auction. 7:00 p.m.10:00 p.m. Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum and Research Center, Madisonville, LA. (504) 836-2215.

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

61

NORTHERN GULF COAST SAILING

Racing Calendar 2004

Because of the hurricanes, please check with the clubs to confirm all races. Venues have changed on many, if not canceled or postponed.

NOVEMBER 6–7 LPRC (Lake Pontchartrain Racing Circuit). New Orleans, LA 6–7 PYC Championship 1 & 2. Pensacola Yacht Club, Pensacola, FL 6–7 Flying Scot Gulf Districts. Bay Waveland, Bay St. Louis, MS 13 – 14 Individual Flying Scot. Pensacola Yacht Club, Pensacola, FL 13 Double-handed Race. Fairhope Yacht Club, Fairhope, AL 20 – 21 PYC Championship 3 & 4. Pensacola Yacht Club, Pensacola, FL 20 Fall 1. Corinthian Sailing Association New Orleans, LA 20 Jfest. New Orleans Yacht Club, New Orleans, LA 26 – 27 Opti Midwinters. Southern Yacht Club, New Orleans, LA DECEMBER 4 GMAC Bowl Regatta. Fairhope Yacht Club, Fairhope, AL 5 Fall 2. Corinthian Sailing Association. New Orleans, LA 11 Santa Claus Regatta. Pensacola Yacht Club, Pensacola, FL. TBA 12 Fall 3. Corinthian Sailing Association, New Orleans, LA 11-12 Sugar Bowl Boardboats. Southern Yacht Club, New Orleans, LA 18-19 Sugar Bowl Regatta. Southern Yacht Club, New Orleans, LA For additional race schedules check the Gulf Yachting Association Web site at: www.gya.org

Race Report 85th Annual Sir Thomas Lipton Cup Regatta, Southern Yacht Club, New Orleans, LA, Sept. 4-6

By Kim Kaminski

T

he 85th Annual Sir Thomas Lipton Cup Regatta was held in New Orleans, LA, over the Labor Day weekend. Tweny-four yacht clubs out of the 33 member clubs in the Gulf Yachting Association (GYA) sent teams to compete in this prestigious sailing event.

62

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

During the three-day competition, activities were planned to accommodate the numerous participants and their families that gathered on the grounds of the Southern Yacht Club, the second oldest yacht club in the United States (founded in 1849) and the oldest yacht club located on the water.

Sailors competed in a total of four individual races. Race number one was held on Saturday afternoon following the official GYA flag-raising ceremony. Races two and three were sailed on Sunday with the final race being completed on Labor Day. Due to the presence of Hurricane Frances in South Florida, and the uncertainty of how the weather might affect the Lipton Cup Series, the race committee had their hands full. Not only did the committee need to complete at least two races to constitute a race series, but they also needed to get all of the racing action completed in a timely manner to allow the out-of-town crews enough time to get their boats out of the water and broken down for their return trip home—plus the added factor of being able to give the racers enough opportunity to be competitive (in other words make the races long enough for a fair competition.) Discussions were made to try to complete the series early (by having three races on Sunday), but after much deliberation the schedule remained unchanged. Thankfully the weather in New Orleans was not a factor. Warm, light breezes and sunny skies prevailed throughout the weekend.

Cal Jones, commodore of the GYA, stated, “This is by far the most prestigious and important sailing event held with the GYA each year, bringing together the best skippers and crews from each of our 33 member clubs for the best in interclub competition. This inter-club competition is, in my opinion, what sets the GYA apart from other regional sailing associations around the country....I certainly expect fierce competition between the clubs out on the race course.”

The battle for first place was indeed quite fierce, separated by only six points, and the even closer battle for second place ended in a tie with 13 points apiece. The sailing teams from Bay Waveland Yacht Club ended up being the triumphant winners and earned the rights to host next year’s 86th annual sailing event.

Results: 1. Bay-Waveland YC, 7 points; 2. Pontchartrain YC,13 points; 3. Pass Christian YC, 13 points; 4. Southern YC, 18 points; 5. Houston YC, 21 points; 6. New Orleans YC, 12 points; 7. Buccaneer YC, 28 points; 8. Gulfport YC, 32 points; 9. Jackson YC, 45 points; 10.Fairhope YC, 47 points; 11.Birmingham YC, 47 points; 12.Pensacola YC, 48 points;13. Lake Charles YC, 53 points; 14. Biloxi YC, 54 points; 15. St. Andrews Bay YC, 59 points; 16. Fort Walton YC, 60 points; 17. South Shore YC, 73 points; 18.

Pelican YC, 75 points; 19. Lake Arthur YC, 80 points; 20.

Point YC, 102 points; 21. Navy YC, 108 points; 22.

Mobile YC, 111 points; 23. Lake Forest YC, 113 points; 24. Long Beach YC, 121 points;

The Flying Scot sailing team (Tom Matthews, Sam Hopkins and AnaGayle Christian) from the Gulfport Yacht Club sailed into the harbor channel in front of the Southern Yacht Club after completing Race Number 2 in order to change out crews for Race Number 3 during this year’s Sir Thomas Lipton Cup Regatta.

Photo by Kim Kaminski. www.southwindssailing.com

NORTHERN GULF COAST SAILING

News One Boat’s Survival Story

By Kim Kaminski

H

urricane Ivan came to shore along the northern Florida/Alabama coast as a massive Category 3 storm (downgrading from a Category 4 storm just minutes before landfall). In its wake, the damages were outstanding; old trees lay broken, shattered, twisted, split and snapped in two in almost every direction that the eye could see. The 28-to-35-foot wall of water from the storm surge toppled and destroyed building after building lying too close to the shoreline. Along the way, boat owners tried various methods to keep their vessels safe from the raging storm. Even the favored hurricane holes that boat owners had used for years were not safe from “Ivan the Terrible’s” wrath.

One boat owner, William “Bubba” Thorsen, who owns the Chulamar ( a 65-foot fishing charter boat) had elected to pull the boat out the water for Hurricane Frances.

However, Frances never did enter the Pensacola area, and after spending $600 dollars to tow his boat in and out of the water, Bubba had decided to try a different method when Hurricane Ivan started to approach the region.

Brown’s Marine, located in Bayou Chico Inlet in Pensacola, FL, had set up a safe cove area for boaters to bring their boats to weather out the storm. Brown’s Marine had contracted barges to encircle the cove area, just as the covered wagons did during the Indian raids in the Old West. The intent was to have the barge operators ride out

Local News For Southern Sailors

Chulamar and others surrounded by barges.

Photo by Bubba Thorsen. the storm keeping their barges steady during the rough seas and keeping the boats within its circle safe from the storm. This game plan seemed to work well, as several boats survived the strong hurricane forces with only some cosmetic damage. Of course, the big problem came after the storm when no one could move his vessel due to the no-boating restrictions established by the Coast Guard (too much debris and water hazards for safe boating). For Bubba, that meant that his boat was secured (for a $50-aday fee) until approval from the Coast Guard came to move his boat back to its home dock or at least what was left of it. After a seven-day wait, the Chulamar is up and operational for deep sea fishing charters.

For more information on the Chulamar, please visit www.chulamar.com

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

63

F LORIDA KEYS SAILING Key Largo Cape Sable

The Keys Saiing Scene Weather Calendar of Events Hot Happenings

Marathon Dry Tortugas

Key West

Florida Keys November Weather AVERAGE TEMPERATURES Key West 72° lo - 81° hi GULF WATER TEMPERATURES Key West 76° For Real Time eastern Gulf weather, winds and marine forecasts, go to: http://comps.marine.usf.edu

November Sailing

By Rebecca Burg

T

he seasonal shift is unmistakable. Those electric subtropical sunsets happen much earlier, the air is less humid and pirates start appearing in the Keys. Last year at this time those salty desperados engaged the local tall ships in Key West. Booming cannons could be heard across the harbor. Arriving cruisers would notice a big, black Jolly Rogerflying schooner sniffing at their sterns. Of course, it’s all in good fun, and the cannons are blanks as the Historic Seaport hosts this year’s Pirates in Paradise event.

Longtime cruiser and racer Ed Gully cheerfully summed up this month’s sailing atmosphere. “...it’s marvelous. You get cooler nights and clear weather. Just watch out for those cold fronts from the north.” The winter season’s halyard-rattling cold fronts are easily tracked by marine weather forecasters and can be avoided. The strong, steady winds that result after a cold front will take the wrinkles out of anyone’s sails. After a light-wind, hurricane-harrassed summer, sailors are thrilled to finally vault over rolling seas, sails taut and heeling with purpose as cool spray flies over the bow.

On shore, the tropical landscape gears up for tourist season and offers some of the most unique activities around. Trade for a souvenir from a pirate on the seashore, swim with a porpoise in Islamorada, enjoy a classy art show in Islamorada or picnic on Historic Pigeon Key. Unforgettable memories are guaranteed.

Hurricane season officially ends later this month, and the start of the Keys’ dry season begins. Average rainfall is 2.64 inches. Wind speeds average 13 knots with a 9-20 knot range. Winds are predominantly from the east, and cold fronts will blast in from the north.

64

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

November Prevailing Winds See page 85 for Windrose legend

Keys Events Calendar Every Saturday – Open House at the Key West Sailing Club.

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

NOVEMBER Parrot Heads in Paradise Convention. Key West.

Buffett music, parties and a festival entertain Parrot Heads from around the world.

6 Blue Angels Air Show at Naval Air Station. Key West. Boca Chica. (305) 293-2425 5-Dec. 5 Pirates in Paradise 2004. Key West. Mock sea battles with tall ships, arts and crafts market and entertainment of the salty kind. (305) 296-9653 3-7

DECEMBER 11 18

Key Largo. Holiday boat parade in Blackwater Sound. A festive, beautiful display of decorated vessels. (305) 451-1592 Key West. Colorful lighted boat parade in Key West harbor with everything from schooners to fishing vessels. (305) 292-3773

Club Racing Key West Wednesday Night Racing at the Key West Sailing Club. Racing begins about 6:00 p.m. Bring your own boat or crew on a club boat, and join us in a series of social races around the buoys with beer, soda and food after racing.

Racing Calendar Nov. 14 Turkey Race in Key West Harbor. Key West Sailing Club. Skippers’ meeting at the club Friday evening before the race. Contact David (305) 296-7939.

Dec. 5 Key West Sailing Club Holiday Regatta near Key West. Skippers‘ meeting Friday evening before the race. (305) 296-7939 www.southwindssailing.com

Dry Tortugas Mugged

by Charley

By Morgan Stinemetz

B

efore Hurricane Charley decimated Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte and cut a new channel through North Captiva Island and made a genuine mess out of the cushy marina at South Seas Plantation, he beat up the Fort Jefferson during the eye of Hurricane Charley. Photo courtesy National Park Service.

Dry Tortugas. More specifidiving (snorkel or scuba), historical sightseeing, wreck divcally, Charley hit the Fort Jefferson National Monument, a ing and world class loafing. popular destination for Florida’s west coast sailors.

For sailors, who have the “legs” to make it down there, In normal times, people who visited the well-liked if not the speed to do so in a hurry, have the best of it. To be anchorage off Garden Key, whereupon lies the huge masonsure, fast ferries and amphibian airplanes from Key West ry fort that was at one time supposed to be the linchpin of bring day trippers by the score. The people come for a few the defense of the Gulf of Mexico, had a lot to look forward hours, kind of clutter up the place with their let’s-get-it-allto. The group of seven islands—only two of which see any done-in-a-day mental set, and then they are gone. human traffic to speak of—have fantastic fishing, terrific

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

65

FLORIDA KEYS SAILING

The peacefulness that sailors seek returns with an audible sigh.

Rick Cook of the Everglades National Park, which administers the Fort Jefferson National Monument, took a little time from his busy schedule earlier this week to talk with me about what Charley had done.

Thirteen people work and live at Fort Jefferson on a regular basis, and no one was injured during the storm, Cook said.

Willie Lopez, the site manager at the Fort Jefferson National Monument, called Charley a “high Category 2 or a low Category 3” storm when it hit. “We had winds from 110 to 120, with higher gusts,” Lopez said. “One of our employees and his wife were trapped inside his apartment, because he couldn’t open the door against the wind. We lost some markers. We lost the land bridge to Bush Key, but that has built back up. Down here, it sounded like a train for about five hours. Coconuts flying around inside the fort like missiles, exploding against the walls like cannon balls. We thought that a couple of the boats were going to end up in the moat.”

Cook let it be known that Charley was the only hurricane to get close enough to the Dry Tortugas to count.

Ivan went west. Frances tracked to the east. After Charley, though, the damage could have been worse. The park was

66

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

closed for a bit after Charley while the rangers assessed the damage and surveyed what needed to be fixed. The park is open now.

The main dock on the east side of Garden Key withstood the onslaught. However, the finger piers to the south of the main dock—where the park kept its boats— were destroyed. The boats were hauled out of the water and left on trailers near the beach. They survived. For the time being, until the finger piers are rebuilt, the park is keeping the boats on their trailers near the water and launching them when necessary.

“There was a significant storm surge there, something like 15 feet,” Cook said. “It went over the top of the moat wall and did a lot of damage to the moat itself. There is a lot of sand and debris in the moat now. The storm also took off parts of the seaward facing (the outside moat wall) of the moat, and there was wave action against the fort. We didn’t get any seawater inside, on the parade ground, but it was close.”

The north channel into the Garden Key anchorage, closed by shoaling several years ago, remains closed, though there is now shallow water where there was sand as recently as last April.

Some of the coping escarpment around the top of the fort itself was dislodged, Cook explained. Part of that is due to the age of the fort—construction started prior to the Civil War—but the winds from Charley definitely made the damage worse, Cook said. As a result, some parts of the top of the wall are now closed for safety reasons.

Inside the fort, on the parade ground, several venerable buttonwood trees that may have been a century old were knocked down. Some old sea grape trees also succumbed. The debris has been removed. Cook went on to say that the welcome shade that the buttonwoods offered inside the fort will be gone forever. Generally speaking, 80 percent of the trees were lost to Charley.

On Loggerhead Key, where stands the Loggerhead light, the landing dock’s decking was taken out. Charley caused structural damage to the antique light keeper’s quarters. The light, automated years ago, is not manned.

The light keeper’s quarters is used by volunteers who sometimes staff Loggerhead Key and stay over.

Masonry crews have already done some work on the fort, prior to Charley. They will shortly start to work on Fort Jefferson full time, but the work was already in the pipeline before the storm struck. The fort, which at one time was going to be let to fall into the sea under a stated government policy of “benign neglect,” has gotten some official attention in recent years. On one trip down to the Dry Tortugas three years back, a barge full of bricks on pallets was sitting at the main dock as a crew of volunteers driving natural gas-powered forklift trucks took the bricks off and stored them in the fort.

“The masonry guys will have to stay out at the fort full time when they start the repairs,” Cook stated, adding that doing masonry work on old structures is now a rather specialized endeavor.

The old masonry experts are not getting any younger either. www.southwindssailing.com

FLORIDA KEYS SAILING

Hurricanes Missed Florida Keys; Keys Still Open for Business

By Rebecca Burg

“Y

ou can see the surf pounding. The wind’s getting heavier and heavier!” said the excited reporter as wind roared past his mike on August 13. Hurricane Charley whirled south of Key West. My radio picked up various news feeds, and I listened to the dramatic reporters as they exposed themselves to storm force winds. “Key West is ready to get hit by another BIG feeder band now!” The day before, visitors had been evacuated. Cruising in the Gulf, I fled and nose-dived into a deep mangrove channel. Peak gusts of 53 knots were recorded at Sand Key. In the lower keys a sailboat broke free and hit a power line, causing a loss of power for some areas. Some trees were uprooted and minor flooding puddled on the streets.

By August 14, it was calm and sunny in the Keys, as it usually is. West of Key West, the Dry Tortugas was closed for three weeks (Editor’s note: See following article). Early September, Hurricane Frances tossed stormy rain bands our way. Under a tropical storm warning, the entire Keys bravely weathered the winds and suffered no significant damage.

Commercial and recreational boaters felt Frances aggressive weather the most. Anchored near fellow cruiser Defiant in the lower Keys, I heard her captain shout. “HEY! A waterspou-OH!” I looked outside in time to see a swirling tornado crash into Defiant, spinning her to port and knocking her down like a toy while sucking three fenders toward the sky.

Unhurt, the frazzled cruiser shook herself and bounced

upright again.

By September 7, the Keys were sunny and back to normal. A few days later, Hurricane Ivan was projected to track over the Keys. Evacuation was mandatory for lower Keys’ residents and visitors. Cruisers fled, hid in slips, hauled out or found mangrove holes. Geraldo Rivera’s TV crew visited Key West’s hurricane grotto at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea, where locals lit candles and prayed for protection from the storm. Ivan’s devastating strength oscillated between categories 4 and 5. Lower Keys gas stations ran out of fuel.

Businesses were boarded up and the streets were silent.

Everyone waited. By Sept. 13, Ivan swung away, brushing the Keys with squally feeder bands. Mariners again dealt with strong winds, waves and dragging anchors.

On Sept. 15, hull streaked with stains, baggy wrinkles plastered back and low on diesel, Angel and I wearily crawled into Key West’s harbor. I was surprised to see that the area was sunny, normal and waiting for visitors. Pinned away from dry land for almost two weeks, I was delighted to be a tourist. Empty restaurants were eager to serve, and businesses were waiting with open arms. Days later, Hurricane Jeanne’s rain bands brushed past. This time, mariners in the upper Keys experienced the roughest ride. Overall, the Key’s infrastructure has not been harmed. After hearing insights from a number of locals, the true damages to the Keys are economical in the form of a loss of normal tourist activity.

Give SOUTHWINDS T

his Holiday season give the gift of sailing! To your loved one, your friends and your family — or even those up North who are still freezing as we sail in the warm Southern winds all winter.

Their first issue comes with a card that says,

"Seasons Greetings. Enjoy your one-(or two)year gift subscription to SOUTHWINDS Magazine given to you by (your name.)"

ONE-YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Third class: $19.95, 2 years $37 First class: $24; 2 years $45 Go to our Web site & pay with Paypal or e-mail us the details at editor@southwindssailing.com You may also call us at (941) 795-8704 Give us your name and who the subscription goes to.

Credit Cards accepted.

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

67

WEST FLORIDA COAST Cedar Key

Cedar Key to Cape Sable Racing News & Calendar Cruising Upcoming Events Calendar West Florida News for Sailors Sailing Services Directory

West Florida November Weather AVERAGE TEMPERATURES St. Petersburg 63° lo - 77° hi Naples 62° lo - 82° hi GULF WATER TEMPERATURES St. Petersburg 70° Naples 73° For Real Time eastern Gulf weather, winds and marine forecasts, go to: http://comps.marine.usf.edu

Sailing in November

By Dave Ellis

F

inally we will get some of the fronts over the Florida peninsula. A strong breeze from the southwest fills into the front. Actually on the St. Petersburg side of Tampa Bay it is more likely to be from the southeast. Then when the front comes through, there will be a quite sudden change in direction to the northwest. Puffs will come from the right, and the wind will slowly veer as time goes by. By the day after the front the wind will be more from the northeast and light, only to be replaced in the four-or five-day cycle by another nice breeze filling into a new front. May your event not be in the light air, northeast breeze.

November boasts numerous sailing races and events.

The Strictly Sail Boat Show, Nov. 4-7, on the St. Petersburg waterfront will get your sea legs moving if anything will.

This show promises to be the best yet, with fresh ideas and much more promotion to bring in the crowd.

SOUTHWINDS calendar lists regattas for every kind of craft up and down the coast. The sailing season has begun!

St. Petersburg

November Prevailing Winds See page 85 for Windrose legend

Tampa

Fort Myers Naples Cape Sable Key West

Sailing program. The best venue of any boat show in the south and the best crowd. Held in downtown St. Petersburg on the waterfront at the Vinoy Resort. www.sailamerica.com Bayfield Boat Rendezvous, Dec. 3-4, Cortez A Bayfield Rendezvous for all Bayfield boatowners and other interested people will be held Dec. 3-4, at the Seafood Shack Marina on 127th Street in Cortez. All Bayfield boat models will be on display with the Bayfield Classic Regatta on Sat. ,Dec. 4. Everyone is invited to come out and look over all the classic Bayfield boats. Call George Carter at (941) 792-9100 for more info.

Events Calendar NOVEMBER 4–7 Strictly Sail Boat Show St. Pete. The largest sailboat show on the Gulf Coast. Many inwater sailboats, with smaller boats on land, numerous exhibitor booths, food, music, beer, seminars. Free introductory sailing with the Discover

68

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

WEST FLORIDA SAILING West Marine/BoatUS Free Seminars Of Interest to Sailors (Call the store—reservations sometimes needed) BoatUS Tarpon Springs, 41286 US HWY 19 North, Start time 7 PM 11/18 Maintaing your outboard and inboard engines, Mark Kipp.

West Marine Clearwater, 1231 Cleveland, (727) 443-2280, Start time 7PM 11/10 Trouble on the Water, Larry Tieman, TowboatUS Largo, 10289 Ulmerton, (727) 586-7040, Start time 7PM 11/17 EPIRBS, Kelton Kenner Madeira Beach, 203 150th Ave. (727) 392-4939, Start Time 6PM 11/4 Garmin Handheld, GPS Basics, Eric Lewis 11/18 Sailboat Rigging, Brad Kadau

Racing Calendar For the legend, addresses, and contacts for the sponsoring sailing association of the races listed below, go to the 20042005 West Florida Race Calendar and Yacht Club Directory at Southwinds’ Web site, www.southwindssailing.com. Contact editor@southwindssailing.com to receive a hard copy.

Changes in the 2004-5 Race Calendar & Yacht Club Directory (For changes contact editor@southwindssailing.com.

Changes will also be posted on the calendar on the Web site also. www.southwindssailing.com) Race Calendar Changes The Suncoast PHRF Boat of the Year (BOTY) Series as printed has been confirmed to be correct.

Crow’s Nest Regatta was canceled till 2005 because of hurricanes.

Florida State Sunfish Championships now held on Nov. 27-28 with DIYC Thanksgiving Regatta.

Yacht Club Directory Changes Contact phone number for Cortez Yacht Club: (941) 322-4551

Local News For Southern Sailors

FLORIDA WEST COAST & LAKE EUSTIS The races and regattas listed here are open to those who want to sail.

To have your race, regatta, or club races listed, please contact editor@southwindssailing.com by the 5th of the month (call if later).

Races listed should be open to anyone. Since races are sometimes canceled, postponed or locations changed, it is advisable to contact the organization beforehand.

NOVEMBER 1 CYC Single-hand/double-hand Clearwater to Egmont Key. PHRF, one or two people per boat 4–7 Strictly Sail Boat Show St. Petersburg, Vinoy Basin. www.sailamerica.com 4–7 SPYC America’s Disabled Open Regatta. Sonar, 2.4 Meter, Martin 16 5–6 SYC SYC Invitational Regatta. SBPHRF BOTY series. Reverse Handicap 6 SPSA Commodore’s Cup. PHRF, TBYRA BOTY. 6–7 DIYC Star Class Regatta 6–7 NSYC Commodore’s Cup. SWFPHRF, BOTY series 6–7 CMCS/SAMI Festival of the Islands Regatta 12 – 14 LESC Southeast MC Scow Championship. Clinic precedes the racing 13 – 14 CCSC Carlisle Classic. Dinghy Open Regatta 13 – 14 DIYC Egmont Key Race.

PHRF Tampa to Egmont and return 13 – 14 SSS Flying Scot Regatta 13 – 14 MIYC Fall Charity Regatta. SWFPHRF BOTY series 13 – 14 NSC Naples Cup. Junior Regatta, Opti, C-420, Laser, Radial 18 – 21 St. Petersburg Boat Show, Bayfront Marina.

Mostly powerboats 19 – 20 MIYC/NYC Hospice Regatta. SWFPHRF, BOTY series 20 SPYC Fall Bay Race. Suncoast WFPHRF BOTY 20 SSS Drumstick Regatta 20 CMCS No Boca Regatta 20 – 21 SPYC Snipe Florida State Championship 25 CortezYC Single/Double-Handed Green Water Race, PHRF

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

69

WEST FLORIDA SAILING 26 DIYC Old Shoe Race 27 – 28 DIYC Thanksgiving All Class Regatta.Dinghies, Cats, Windsurfers, PHRF DECEMBER 04 4 SSS Commodore’s Cup SBPHRF BOTY series 4 CMCS Sunfish Challenge Cup 4–5 SPYC J-24 SE Regional Championship. J/24 World’s qualifier 4–5 ESC Sunfish Challenge Cup Regatta 7 Cortez YC Single-handed race from Longboat Pass to Key West (Smith Shoal) 11 CMCS Commodore’s Cup 11 – 12 SPYC Laser District 13 Open Championship 11 – 12 TBCS Steeplechase Catamaran Distance Race 15 – 19 ECKERD COLLEGE/SAISA High School Team Racing 26 DIYC Couples Race, PHRF

Club Racing Open to Everyone Wanting to Race. The races listed here are open to those who want to sail. Please send us your race schedule for publishing to editor@southwindssailing.com.

Bradenton YC. Sunday afternoons. PHRF racing on Manatee River. For info call Larry Lecuyer, (941) 729-5401 Venice Sailing Squadron. Saturdays. First Saturday of each month, PHRF racing. Start at mouth of Venice Inlet. www.venice-sailing-squadron.org

Edison Sailing Center, Fort. Myers. Sunfish and dinghy racing once a month, year-round john@johnkremski.com Port Charlotte. Third Saturday of month, year-round. pbgvtrax@aol.com

Race Report Summerset Regatta a Big Hit in October

By Steve Romaine

S

outhwest Florida’s premier sailing event, the CMCS 39th Annual Summerset Regatta, was held October 2-3, after being postponed from Labor Day weekend because of Hurricane Frances.

Forty-eight racing yachts enjoyed moderate easterly winds both days for the 24 nm coastal race on Saturday from Fort Myers Beach to Naples and the two buoy races on Sunday in the Gulf.

Two hundred seventy-five sailors, hailing from Port Charlotte to Marco Island, enjoyed the cocktail party and hors d’ouevres outside under the stars at the Naples Comfort Inn party deck. Tales abounded of successful strategy for the distance race. Everyone expressed concern for Corey Cabral and his crew aboard his 27-foot Stiletto Adrenaline, which flipped and sank in over 20 feet of water in the Gulf. Everyone was fine, the boat was saved, and all were thankful for the racers and the race committee members who came to Corey’s aid.

Fantastic door prizes were drawn, and every boat won a prize, some of which were worth hundreds of dollars.

Highlights of the regatta include the following: • Course record set for the 24 nm coastal race. Stars and Stripes USA 1, the America’s Cup 76-foot catamaran, owned and skippered by Mark Reese of Naples, completed the course in 86 minutes. Slow down, Mark; we can’t drive down 41 to Naples that fast!

• Peter Sulick skippered his Hobie 25, Rocketboard, to the overall PHRF Spinnaker championship.

• Arnie Pfalz sailed his Pearson 35, Laura Li, to victory in the 12-boat true cruising fleet. This competition was his first as a member of the fast-growing true cruising fleet.

• Three skippers in the hotly contested 11-yacht PHRF NonSpinnaker fleet raced their yachts to first place individual race wins, yet didn’t place in the top two boats overall. Joel Martinez in Despedida, Steve Wallace in Won Ton Too, and Steve Romaine in Air Supply, each had wins. However, Paul McDill in Essence and Dick Hedderick in Sanderling placed first and second respectively for the overall regatta honors.

• Nine yachts raced in Summerset for the first time, several of which were making their debut to Gulf competition.

• There was a record of over 50 corporate sponsors and inkind gift donors in addition to 25 CMCS member sponsors.

Steve and Doris Colgate, of the Offshore Sailing School, donated a week performance-sailing course to be used as a raffle. The combined contributions enabled CMCS to make a financial gift to the Edison Sailing Center to assist youth sailing in southwest Florida.

• Lots of media coverage was given by Wink TV Sports, the News Press, the Naples Daily News, Fort Myers Beach Observer, the River Weekly, the Sanibel Sun, and Southwinds Magazine.

70

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

WEST FLORIDA SAILING

Jack Morgan Machine in the Summerset Regatta. Mary Naylor photo The weekend’s activities were brought to life, also, by photographs taken by CMCS’s Mary Naylor, some of which are shown here in Southwinds. Mary also honored the winners with her photos of their boats racing in Summerset, which were placed on the awards.

Summerset chairman, the Caloosahatchee Marching and Chowder Society’s (CMCS) vice commodore, Russell Vance, was very pleased and thanked his 22-member organizing committee, race committee members, and all those contributing to “Sail the Tradition Summerset ’04.”

Results: PHRF True Cruising Class: 12, Racing Yachts; 1, Laura Li – Arnie Pfalz – Fort Myers; 2, Island Time – Joe Barrett – Naples; 3, Endeavour – Paul Perisho – Cape Coral; Multi Hull

Obsession races in the Summerset Regatta. Mary Naylor photo.

Class: 7 Racing Yachts; 1, Passion III – Ned Christensen – Cape Coral; 2, Triumph – Doug French – Fort Myers; 3, Trifecta – Eric Frizzi – Bonita Springs; PHRF NonSpinnaker Class: 11, Racing Yachts; 1, Essence – Paul McDill – Fort Myers;2, Sanderling – Richard Hedderick – Naples; 3, Air Supply – Steve Romaine – Fort Myers; PHRF Spinnaker Class A – 4 Racing Yachts; 1, Southern Crescent – Dan Kerckhoff – Naples; 2, Maria – Joe Bonness – Naples; 3, Celebration – Mike Kayusa – Fort Myers; PHRF Spinnaker Class B – 5 Racing Yachts; 1, Children at Play – Jack Graefe/Brent Hamilton – Naples; 2, Midnite Rider – Forrest Banks – Fort Myers; 3, Tippecanoe – Dan Kendrick – Marco Island; Sportboat Class: 5 Racing Yachts; 1, Rocketboard – Peter Sulick – Naples; 2, Threesome – Tim Timmer – Naples; 3, Obsession – Gary Schwarting Naples Overall Spinnaker Class Winner (Includes Sportboats, Spinnaker Class A and Spinnaker Class B: (14 Racing Yachts) Rocketboard – Peter Sulick.

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

71

West Florida Sailing Services Directory From Cedar Key to Cape Sable

Sailing Services Directory starts as low as $8 a month.

Call (941) 795-8704 or e-mail editor@southwindssailing.com BOAT LETTERING – GRAPHICS

RIGGING SERVICES SSMR. Inc. 727-823-4800 Complete Rigging Services On-Site Swaging & Splicing Commisssioning Services At Harborage Hi & Dry Dock • Crane Service Fax 727-823-3270 St. Petersburg

Scuba Clean Yacht Service See ad in Underwater Services SARASOTA PORPOISE SAILING SERVICES • New and Used Sails • Buy • Sell • Trade • Furling Packages • Discount Sunbrella (941) 758-2822 www.porpoisesailing.com

SAILBOAT SERVICES AND REPAIRS ELLIE’S SAILING SHOP Clearwater Lifelines, rigging, hardware, repairs Serving small boat sailors Since 1958 Sunfish Boats and Parts...........(727) 442-3281

SAILING INSTRUCTION/SCHOOLS

THE SIGN FACTORY FLORIDA BOAT GRAPHICS Screen Printing • T-shirts • Hats (941) 792-4830......thesignfactory2@juno.com

Adventure Cruising & Sailing School A sailing school for Women and Couples • ASA • West Florida and Chesapeake www.acss.bz............................(727) 204-8850

CANVAS & CUSHION SERVICES

CAPT. JIMMY HENDON (727) 459-0801 ASA Cert./BBC Instruction * USCG Lic. Master Deliveries • Gulf • Atlantic • Caribbean (866) 221-2841......captainjimmy@gosolo.com

Banks Sails Tampa See ad in Sailmaking Scuba Clean Yacht Service See ad in Underwater Services

SAILMAKING, REPAIRING & CLEANING

CAPTAIN SERVICES

ADVANCED SAILS (727) 896-7245 CAPT. JIMMY HENDON (727) 459-0801 Quality Cruising Sails & Service ASA Cert./BBC Instruction * USCG Lic. Master Closest Sailmaker to St. Petersburg Marinas Deliveries • Gulf • Atlantic • Caribbean Keith Donaldson......................(727) 896-7245 (866) 221-2841......captainjimmy@gosolo.com

MARINE SURVEYING

SUNRISE SAILS PLUS WEST FLORIDA Complete Yacht Outfitting Service Sails – New, Repair, Cleaning Complete rigging service, masts, cushions, canvas & more (941) 721-4471 sunrisesailsplus@msn.com

FLAGSHIP SAILING/TAMPA BAY AREA ASA Sailing Instruction – Basic thru Advanced Instructor Certification • Sailing Club Bareboat & Captained Charters www.flagshipsailing.com.......(727) 942-8958 YACHTING VACATIONS SW FLORIDA Live-aboard/non-live-aboard ASA instruction www.yachtingvacations.com (800) 447-0080

UNDERWATER SERVICES Scuba Clean Yacht Service • Underwater Services • Canvas Shop • Sail Cleaning & Repair • Detailing • Mechanical • Electrical • Electronics Serving Pinellas, Hillsborough, Sarasota, Pasco & Manatee Counties.

(727) 327-2628 Advertise with a 1" tall ad for $20 a month. See page 79 for details or call (941) 795-8704 72

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

WEST FLORIDA SAILING

Bradenton Yacht Club Kickoff Regatta: Great Winds But Hurricane Jeanne Butts In

B

radenton Yacht Club held its traditional Kick-off Regatta on the weekend of Sept. 24-26. If the winds the club enjoyed on the one day of sailing are any indication of the conditions to be seen in the coming racing season, it will be a windy year. Let’s hope so.

Hurricane Jeanne both helped and interrupted the scheduled races. On Friday, Sept. 24, when many of the boats in the area arrived at the club’s docks for the Friday night party and preparations for the next day’s race, Jeanne was threatening to come ashore on the central eastern coast of Florida, pretty much where Frances had landed only weeks before. If Jeanne followed Frances’ path across the state to Tampa Bay, everyone knew the winds would probably pick up for great sailing on Saturday but create dangerous conditions for Sunday’s race. Already the Port of Tampa had officially closed even before the skippers’ briefing on Friday evening, and the boats that had traveled from as far away as Clearwater and Davis Island were planning to return to their home ports Saturday afternoon—after the regatta. No one wanted to face the possibility of tropical storm or hurricane force winds on their trips home if made any later.

Because of these conditions, only one of the two races originally scheduled for the different fleets was held on Saturday. The True Cruising fleet sailed its single race as originally planned.

Although Jeanne cut the regatta short, she brought winds in the 18-20 knot range and up, making it a great day for sailing. While one boat, Pocket Rocket, had two crew members go overboard (both were retrieved safely) when a lifeline failed, another, Marisol was dismasted and made the voyage to home port early. Another, Heartbeat, blew out a spinnaker in the high winds. Almost everyone enjoyed a great day of sailing—many in reefed conditions.

Since racing started around 10 a.m., most boats managed to head home early, and it was the True Cruising fleet that finished its day last, doing its one original long race. Those who returned to home port in Bradenton, or nearby, managed to make the after-race awards ceremony, dinner, and party, while some who returned to port in St. Petersburg drove back down later in the afternoon for the festivities—all amid the gathering clouds and high winds preceding Jeanne’s arrival the following day.

Results:

Boats head out to the racecourse on a windy Saturday morning for the 2004 BYC Kick-off Regatta. Photo courtesy Laura Ritter, Cortez Yacht Club.

SPIN A- 1; PIPPIN 2; BULL DURHAM 3; FIRE& ICE ;SPIN B- 1; SEMPER FI 2; DESPERADO 3; FAT BOTTOM GIR ;SPIN- LITE- 1; SWATCH 2; LUCKY PONY 3; DEAD- A- HEAD NON- SPIN 1- YEL 1; ESCAPADE 2; WIND CALLER, 3; OCEAN ANGEL NON- SPIN 2- 1; FLASH 2; EASY RIDE 3; GRAND ILLUSION MULTI- HULLS- 1; SIERRA HOTEL 2; STRIDER 3; SUNDANCE CRUISE 1- 1; GRRRRRR 2; MILLER TIME 3; SERAPHIM CRUISE 2- BLUE 1; SUNDANCE 2; ZIG ZAG 3; KITTEN.

19th Annual Morgan Invasion

By Dave Ellis

E

ach year for the past 19 years, sailboats designed by St. Petersburg’s Charley Morgan invade Treasure Island Tennis and Yacht Club. Saturday, Oct. 4, was a fine day for a sailing event. Organizers planned ahead by delaying the start to late morning this year to try to get more breeze. It helped, as the wind just filled in at start time for the 39 boats ranging Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

73

WEST FLORIDA SAILING from Morgan 22s to massive Out Island ketches.

Charley was there, of course. At the famous gathering after racing he held forth with stories of boats and people of days of yore. The gathering doubled as his 75th birthday party.

Showing that he still knows how to sail a boat, Morgan jumped on Pete Moller’s Morgan 38 Rolling Thunder, did a bit of the steering and tactics and won the class handily.

Long-time West Florida sailor Jim Pardee had the honor of winning the M-24 class and received the impressive Steve Pardee Trophy, honoring his late son.

Results: PHRF A: 1, Eclipse, Ron Kinney, Morgan 30; 2, Squirrel Chaser, Derek

Dudinsky, Chrysler 27; 3, Mystic, Jay Meyers, Morgan 27; PHRF B:1, Jackal,Allen Davidson, Morgan 30; 2, Carefree, Thomas Gross, Morgan 34; 3, Mexicana, Ben Skinner, Morgan 34; Morgan 38: 1, Rolling Thunder, Pete Moller, Morgan 38 (centerboard); 2, Flight, Greg Hoover, Morgan 38; 3, Free Spirit, Nancy Oakly, Morgan 38; Morgan 24 –25: 1, Blue Cloud, Jim Pardee, Morgan 24; 2, Odyssey, Grover Griffen, Morgan 25; 3, Makiara, John Linton, Morgan 24; Morgan 22: 1, Flash Robert Willard; 2, Dungle Jums, Cindy & Beau Hunt; 3, Naked Spirit, Ed Liebler: Charles M. Hunt Navigator Award - Robert Willard, Flash, M22: Steve Pardee Memorial Trophy - Jim Pardee, Blue Cloud, M24; LonVan Dorston Croisers Trophy – First OI Ketch to finish, Frank Wreath, Chemaea: Under 40ft Out Island Trophy - Pedro Penichet Paper Moon:Sally Morgan Perennial Participation Award - Rolling Thunder, M38, Pete and Cheryl Moller, 16 yrs of participation in Morgan Invasion Regattas: Most Pristine Boat Award - Buddy Black/Ron Bullock, Lady Catherine, M41.

morning hours, with an 8-10 knot sea breeze prevailing during the afternoon. All classes, with the exception of the Optis and Opti Green class, performed their course navigation skills in the Gulf of Mexico. The younger Opti class sailors remained in the protected, shallow waters of the bay.

Expertise in seamanship was evident by all participants throughout the day while utilizing an impressive venue of boat designs within the racing classes. The older, more experienced sailors were handling Lasers, 420s and Radials while the younger captains were in the Optimists. PHRF rules governed all race events.

Each year the Clearwater Yacht Club brings together the young sailors from around the state who demonstrate their sailing abilities and possess the desire to become better seamen. This year’s participants were from the Clearwater YC, St. Petersburg YC, Edison Sailing Center, Davis Island YC, Naples Community Sailing, Sarasota Sailing Squadron, Team FOR, Clearwater Community Sailing Center and Coral Reef YC. The interest in youth sailing programs throughout the state is growing at a rapid pace. More equipment, volunteers and certified instructors are needed to meet the demand. If anyone is interested in becoming actively involved with a youth

Clearwater Community Sailing Center Hosts the Annual Clearwater Yacht Club’s Clearwater Championships Regatta

By George Regenauer

C

learwater Yacht Club held its annual Youth Sailing Clearwater Championships Regatta The Annual Clearwater Yacht Club’s Clearwater Championships Regatta. Photo on October 2-3 at Clearwater Community Sailing by George Regenauer.

Center. CCSC’s Sand Key facility was filled to sailing program, contact any of the sailing organizations that capacity with the hundred-plus participants ages 8-18, who have youth sailing and let them know your area of interest represented their respective sailing organizations from the and expertise. You can become a valuable asset to an organiTampa Bay area and were accompanied by fleets from Naples zation by answering telephones, being a member of the racand Coral Reef. Parking was at a premium at CCSC due to ing committee, helping with launching and recovering boats, the extra cars and boat trailers that filled any and all flat spots performing facility and boat maintenance. Volunteers are big enough to hold the car/trailer combos. always welcome at any facility that sponsors youth sailing Just one week after Hurricane Jeanne, the weather and and they can definitely utilize your assistance. winds were perfect for the event. Light winds dominated the

74

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

75

WEST FLORIDA SAILING For more information concerning the Clearwater Championships event and to view the individual class race results, visit Clearwater Yacht Club’s Web site at: www.clwyc.org.

Cortez Yacht Club Seeks Boats for Cruise to Key West

C

ortez Yacht Club is planning a cruise to Key West from the Sarasota-Tampa Bay area and is seeking boaters interested in joining a group cruise departing Nov. 11. Allinclusive dockage available at Conch Harbor Marina in Key West Bight. Return date is open. Key West activities include: a dock social; marina pool party; and an unorganized Duval crawl. Marina slips limited. For details call Laura Ritter (941) 780-3547 or Bill Hoffman (941) 322-4551.

time to say goodbye in the coming days. While I am leaving CCSC, I plan on staying in the area and remaining active in the world of sailing. I will let everyone know what sailing projects I’m up to in the very near future just in case you want to participate.

For further information regarding ongoing programs or the future direction of CCSC, I suggest you send your questions to the board via e-mail at board@clearwatercommunitysailing.org.

In the meantime, smooth seas and fair winds.

Dan Roeder

Edison Sailing Center in Fort Myers Enjoys Saturday Sunfish Racing

By John Kremski

Dan Roeder Retires from Clearwater Community Sailing Center From Dan: It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that I have tendered my resignation as director of the Clearwater Community Sailing Center to the board of CCSA Inc. Over the past two years I have felt privileged to be able to serve the community in such a unique and meaningful way. Thank you to all who have contributed so much and been such a big part of what has been a very successful reinvigoration of sailing in our area and the positive impacts that have been made on so many individuals and families.

My last day at the center will be Friday September 24.

Ron Butler and Chris King are also leaving on the 24th. Ron is going cruising with his wonderful wife Carol aboard their boat Kismet, and Chris is off to a new life in Maui (poor guy).

I’m sure everyone will want to wish them well so please take

76

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

A

t the most recent Sunfish event at the Edison Sailing Center, with winds southeast at about 10-15 knots, smooth water, slack tide, and comfortable temperatures, eight Sunfish sailors enjoyed a beautiful afternoon of racing in the Caloosahatchee. The wind threw in a lot of challenges.

Although a comfortable and pretty steady strength, there were a lot of 20 degree or more shifts, and more than a few sailors found out that if they tacked too soon, by the time they settled in on the new tack, the wind had shifted again and they were immediately headed! We got six races in, sailing a modified “gold cup” course, before everyone got tired and headed in. Burgers on the grill and socializing for an hour or so completed a very enjoyable afternoon.

The next Sunday Sunfish Race will be on Nov. 7, Sunday, noon skipper meeting and 1:00 p.m. start. Hope to see you all there.

Bring your own boat or use one at the center. Contact John Kremski at john@johnkremski.com or call (239) 425-6017.

www.southwindssailing.com

WEST FLORIDA SAILING

37th Annual Running of the Regata Del Sol al Sol Announces Schedule

ed at the conclusion of the race.

Regata and Fiesta Del Sol al Sol is a world-class international event that delivers an unparalleled offshore racing experience. For additional information, race details and entry forms, go to www.regatadelsolalsol.org.

T

St. Pete Yacht Club Hosts J/24 Southeast Regionals

he exciting Gulf Stream crossing race from St. Petersburg, FL, to Isla Mujeres, Mexico, is scheduled for April 29, 2005. Racers will sail 456 nautical miles from St. Petersburg to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula in the Regata Del Sol al Sol and discover a new challenge in offshore racing. The race is part of nine days of festivities in Florida and Mexico called the Regata and Fiesta Del Sol al Sol from April 28 through May 6, 2005.

The race is open to any monohull or multihull boat 30 feet LOA or greater with a current West Florida PHRF rating.

The Regata Del Sol al Sol appeals to both the professional skippers on the big racing sleds as well as the skippers of the true cruising class. Skippers will use their navigation skills to develop a strategy for maneuvering across the challenging Gulf Stream currents. This unusual race provides the opportunity to sail to an exciting destination to experience the culture of Mexico and participate in nine days of festival activities, all while traveling with a large group of fellow cruising sailors.

One of the objectives of the yacht race is to assist the host communities in Mexico with educational, medical and humanitarian supplies. In 2003, the race donated a fire truck and an ambulance to the local host community. The 2004 race delivered equipment for the fire truck and ambulance and medical supplies. This year, additional medical supplies and equipment will be carried by race participants to be present-

Local News For Southern Sailors

T

he Saint Petersburg Yacht Club is excited to host this year’s J24 Southeast Regional Championships on December 4-5. Members expect an event highlighted by exceptional race management, excellent facilities and, of course, competitive racing.

This regatta is also an excellent opportunity to winter your J/24 in Florida. There are two other significant J/24 regattas coming up, including the St. Petersburg NOODS on Feb. 18 -20, 2005, and the J/24 Midwinters hosted by Davis Island Yacht Club in Tampa Feb. 24-27, 2005.

The SPYC has arranged boat/trailer storage for a nominal fee for the time between the Regionals and the NOODS, but spaces are limited. Make your arrangements as soon as possible by contacting Jim Lindsay, Fleet 169 captain at jimlindsay@tampabay.rr.com.

Check the SPYC Web site, www.spyc.org for the NOR and further details including accommodations discounts.

So spread the word, feel free to forward this email to any non-class J/24 sailors and see you in St. Petersburg.

Feel free to contact Jim Lindsay at the above e-mail with any questions.

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

77

WEST FLORIDA SAILING

Business Briefs Harborage Marina in St. Pete Names New General Manager

M

arinas International has named Eric Zahner as the new general manager of the Harborage Marina at Bayboro in St. Petersburg, FL. Zahner, who had been dockmaster at the marina for the past three years, was promoted to his new general manager position in early August. He oversees more than 300 wet slips and 400 high-and-dry slips for clients.

Yachting Vacations Survives in Great Condition from Charley

E

mployees of the charter company, Yachting Vacations, at Burnt Store Marina in Punta Gorda, spent days preparing their 15 boats for Hurricane Charley. After removing about everything they could from the boats and then securing them at their docks with preparations for a strong storm surge, owner Capt. Chris Rogiers wondered if he would have a business to come back to after Charley turned and gave them a direct hit with winds gusting near 170. Their preparations proved well worth it, though, as the boats suffered almost no damage—even with reports of the water dropping several feet below the docks and then minutes later rising several feet above them.

Yachting Vacations remains open for business. www.yachtingvacations.com. (800) 447-0080.

Banks Sails in Tampa Moves

B

anks Sails recently moved to a new location at 2815 E. Henry Ave., Bldg D-10 Tampa, FL 33610. Their e-mail, bankstpa@fdn.com and phone numbers, (813) 626-0420, fax (813) 626-1172 remain the same.

Sailors Wharf St. Petersburg Offers Hurricane Program

W

e are instituting a program which will help us to respond more quickly and efficiently to our customers’ needs upon the approach of a tropical storm or hurricane. The basis of the program is a priority list of prereserved haul-out and storage slots for the nominal fee of $100 (plus 7 percent sales tax). The fee is a non-refundable, one-time fee, which will revolve from season to season to keep you on the priority list. If and when a named storm is forecast for the Tampa Bay area, you will be contacted with a day and time to bring your boat to the yard for haul-out prior to the forecasted arrival of the storm. Our standard service contract must be signed prior to the haul-out, and the effective haul-out charges and daily storage charges for the time the boat is in the yard will apply.

We have a limited number of slots available, and the reservations are on a first come/first serve basis. For more information or to secure your reservation, please contact Sandy at shelsen@sailorswharf.com or call (727) 823-1155, ext. #203.

78

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

C L A S S I F I E D

A D S

“In August, you began running an advertisement to sell my diesel engine in your classifieds section. I am pleased to advise you that I have a buyer as a result of the advertisement. Please discontinue it. FYI, I have also had inquiries from West Africa and France Capt C.T., St. Petersburg, FL as a result of the Internet ad you made available. I’m MAJOR impressed!! Thank you very much.”

CLASSIFIED ADS — 3 MONTHS FOR $25 1. Classified ads for boats are $25 for a threemonth ad for up to 30 words. Check or Credit cards accepted.

2. Add $25 for a horizontal photo (vertical photos $5 a month more), ($50 for a three-month ad for boat with photo).

3. Free ads for boats under $500 (sail and dinghys only), all gear under $500, and windsurfing equipment. Add $10 a month for a horizontal photo.

4. Boats and gear must be for sale by the owner to qualify for the above. No businesses.(see #10) 5. E-mail ads to editor@southwindssailing.com

(including photos). Then mail a check or call with credit card. Add $5 typing charge for ads mailed in or faxed in (including free ads).

6. You can also go online and pay by Paypal and type the ad into the message area or e-mail it separately to editor. Photo must be sent separately.

7. Photos not accompanied by S.A.S.E. will not be returned. Photocopies of photos will not work. Email photoa as an attachment or send actual photo.

8. Ads (and renewing ads) must be received by the 10th of the month.

9. The last month your ad runs will be in parentheses, e.g., (10/04) is October, 2004.

10. All other ads are $20 a month for up to 20 words, add $5 a month for each additional 10 words. $10 a month for a horizontal photo.

Frequency discounts available. Contact editor.

11. No refunds.

Now pay on-line at our Web site www.southwindssailing.com editor@southwindssailing.com

SOUTHWINDS PO Box 1175, Holmes Beach, FL 34218-1175 (941)795-8704 • (941) 795-8705 fax

All ads go on the Internet, and your Web site or e-mail address in the ad will be linked by clicking on it.

SOUTHWINDS will only be responsible financially for mistakes for a one issue period. Please check your ad. Let us know any mistakes by the 10th of the month.

BOATS & DINGHIES Like new 2003 Club 420 w/Seitech dolly, 2 sets sails, 2 spins, trailer w/mast crutch & spare, all the trimmings. $5700 Contact (813) 286-0640 or evan123@tampabay.rr.com.

(12/04) SAILBOAT TRAILER Twin axle. Reconditioned, very good condition. Fits boat to 25', 5,000 lbs, up to 5' draft. $ 1,600. (954) 614-0874 (11/04) Sunfish for sale $499, located in Port Charlotte, good condition, no trailer. Call (941) 626-7160 (11/04)

1982 S2 7.9 OB Lifting keel, 4 sails, RF, self tailers, depth, compass, trailer. NEW: rigging, hatchboards, tiller, battery, bilge pump, nav lights, interior and mast paint. $12,900. OBO, (727)460-3544. (11/04)

DISPLAY CLASSIFIEDS

Advertise your business in a display ad in the classifieds section. Sold by the column inch. 2 inch minimum.

(3 column inches is 1/8 page) Monthly Cost Ads Per Inch

12 6 3 1

$17 $20 $23 $27

Minimum Inches

Total Cost

2" 2" 2" 2"

$34 $40 $46 $54

2000 West Marine/Avon 10.2-foot “RIB” Dinghy Sturdy fiberglass floor, storage compartment, oars, seat, extra goodies included. $1,250 (813) 925-0500, e-mail sailcompania@msn.com (11/04)

26.5' 1992 Beneteau First 265 Fully outfitted for cruising with dinghy, lots of equipment and spares. $32,000 John (941)518-9629.

Info at www.braveheart.findu.com (11/04)

1990 Hunter 27' walk-through transom, wheel, 10 hp diesel, autohelm, roller furling, drifter sail, new bimini & sail cover, solar generator, 3' 6" wing bulb keel, dinghy. $23,500 (352) 596-7192. labet@tampabay.rr.com (11/04) Local News For Southern Sailors

27 Stiletto Catamaran, Special Edition, fully battened main with lazy jacks, spinnaker, winches, running backstays, full bimini, toilet, VHF, Auto pilot, engine, swim ladder, deck cushions, delivery possible. $12,500 negotiable. (850) 457-8060. (11/04)

Clean 28 MacWester, strong English bluewater cruiser, Lloyds, 3' draft, Atlantic veteran, 27 Yanmar, 510 hrs, wheel, furler, windlass, NEW paint, interior & canvas, sleeps 5, a salty head-turner, will trade for real estate. 43K (850) 384-9020 (11/04) (FI) ’80. 28’ San Juan FWC Yanmar 700 hrs., 4’-6” draft, 4 sails. New full batten main w/150 genoa, 3 ground tackle, windlass, electronics, tiller autopilot, inflatable w/OB, no hurricane damage, sail away condition. $12,500. For fax info. Call (586) 468-7461.

DISPLAY CLASIFIED ADS STARTING AT $34/MONTH SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

79

C L A S S I F I E D

A D S

1989 O’Day 322, 4’2" draft, AC, roller furling, Yanmar, cruise spinnaker, wind gen, H20 maker, dinghy & OB, cruise ready, turn key, $48,900. (727) 514-5700. For complete info. www.captainbobdaly.com (1/05)

32.3’ Pearson 323 (1980), Coastal Cruising Sloop, Bill Shaw Design, Volvo MD11 diesel, fully battened main, high cut jib, extra sails and equipment, Navico autopilot, $27,000, famkopp@gulftel.com (12/04 FREE – New Hunter 33 or 36. SailTime will pay mortgage and all expenses for 5 years – you put 20% down and own 100% . Call 1866-Sailtime.

Ranger 28 Winning boat! sleeps 5, 12 sails, EVERYTHING for GO FAST, lots more, immaculate NEW diesel, Electronics, Surveyed @ $20K Protected Investment @ $10,500, See & Deal! (251) 342-3153, hickmanhouse@earthlink.net. (11/04)

30’ Cherubini Hunter, 1976. Complete refit.

New standing and running rigging, including chainplates. 3 cyl Universal diesel. 250 hours on rebuild. Propane Hillerange and Force 10 grill. Engel refrigeration and ice box. Hot and cold pressure water. Harken cabin top traveler system. Custom built nav station. Completely rewired with new AC and DC circuit panels.

Horizon DSC VF with Ram mic at helm.

Raytheon ST4000+ autopilot. Too much more to list. Turn key cruising/liveaboard. (239) 280-7434. zekeatthebeach@aol.com (12/04) 30' Northstar 1000. Bristol condition, 2 mains, 3 headsails, spinnaker, Autopilot, VHF, depthfinder, GPS and more. (843) 412-5740 (11/04) 1984 Aloha 32. Performance cruiser. 35 LOA, 32 LOD, 4’9” draft, 11 ft. Beam, 6’4” headroom, Westerbeke 21, AC, Autopilot, Canadian-built, In South Florida. Photos on request. Consider trades. RV, etc. $ 39,400.

(863) 612-4831. gaelicbreeze@yahoo.com (239) 218-8680. (12/04) 80

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

Peterson 34' Mark II Tall Version, 1982 by Island Yachts, One of the finest racer-cruiser designs ever produced. Wheel, cushions, roller-furling system, high/ low boom position and complete sail inventory (>10 bags) for cruising and club racing with this very fast, well-kept yacht. Electronics update 2003. Email biosyntpi@msn.com or phone (504) 734-7331, 35K (2/05)

1980 Union Cutter 36 World Cruiser just completed 3 yr. documented keel-up renovation and 1000 mile sea trial. The best material and craftsmanship throughout. All new stainless standing rigging, electronics, plumbing and custom everything. 45' LOA, 12 ton, full keel, double-ended cruiser equipped with all new toys. Beautiful inside and out. Brokers welcome. Laying Key West. Over $200K invested. Sacrifice at $129k. E-mail: mtnhackr@aol.com (702) 275-8752. (11/04)

1983 C & C 35 Mk III Great cruiser/racer, Yanmar, 11 sails, bunks for 7, stove with oven, A/C (’00), refrig (’00), feathering prop (’03), self-tailing winches, Harken roller furler, bimini, covers for everything, autopilot, new batteries, etc., etc. This boat needs nothing. $59,500 chriswilke@cox.net or (504) 3920840 (1/05)

SEE CLASSIFIED INFO ON PAGE 79 www.southwindssailing.com

C L A S S I F I E D

A D S

Yamaha $54,700 (337) 981-4873 or sabear1010@wmconnect.com (11/04)

1988 Brewer 44’ shoal-draft w/board.

Center-cockpit cutter, Perkins 85, sale by original owners, (941) 962-7100 or (813) 6710862 or paritytwo@yahoo.com. (1/04)

45’ 6” LOA Bayfield 40, Hull # 34 Full keel 5’ draft, cutter ketch designed by H.T.Gozzard built in 1984 Exceptional condition with lots of new gear. Harken Roller furling on all sails.

Marine Air, WS, WD, Depth,VHF w/remote, SSB, CD/Radio, Autopilot, Chartplotter, Radar, Dinghy, Life Raft $114,000 Call Major Carter or visit www.Cortezyachts.com (1/04) 1982 C&C 37 Loaded Cruiser Racer, Passion, asking 59K. Make offer. Located in Pass Christian, MS. (504) 858-4017 jwilsail@att.net (12/04) ’84 RACER CRUISER KIRIE’-ELITE 37. RON HOLLAND DESIGN. Also know as a Feeling 1100.

Since 1995 vessel has been totally refurbished and up-graded, both as a cruiser and racer. Nothing to add or buy, just add food, clothes, and crew if you want to race. Too many upgrades, equipment, and sails to list. $70,000.

CONTACT W.R. HARDEN (850) 897-3653 or wrharden@earthlink.net (12/04

Nautical 60' Ketch, 1982, Bristol condition maintained by professional skipper (refit yearly), 4 cabin layout plus crew, large family or charter, 125 hp desiel, A/C, Sat phone, $250,000 (1/04)

www.yachtsoutherncomfort.com scomfort@islands.vi Capt Mike (11/04)

BOOKS & CHARTS Ocean Routing – Jenifer Clark’s Gulf Stream Boat Routing/Ocean Charts by the “best in the business.” (301) 952-0930, fax (301) 574-0289 or www.erols.com/gulfstrm

BUSINESS/INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES Construction/Real Estate investment Highlyexperienced, honest, licensed, responsible and reliable contractor seeks investor/partner

41' Gulfstar Ketch 1974 in bristol condition.

Great cruiser, enclosed cockpit, custom teak interior, cedar lined lockers, 4-108 Perkins diesel, autopilot, inverter, Avon dinghy, 5 hp Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

81

C L A S S I F I E D in new construction/remodeling in west Florida. Perhaps a spec house or purchase to remodel. Contractor is experienced in custom homes of all sizes, including very high-end homes. Only interested in doing interesting and enjoyable projects. (941) 795-8711 FREE – New Hunter 33 or 36. SailTime will pay mortgage and all expenses for 5 years – you put 20% down and own 100% . Call 1866-Sailtime.

Sailtime.com is looking for base operators on the Florida coast. This may suit existing marine business owners who wish to add an additional income stream. Sailtime is a unique business model that requires minimal capital and no staff. Tel. (813) 817-0104 or jtwomey@sailtime.com

Advertising Sales Reps wanted in the South for SOUTHWINDS magazine. Must be a good communicator, have a computer, and some experience in selling to call on national advertisers and advertisers in your area. All areas of the South. Part time by commission. To call on national advertisers, you can live almost anywhere for this job. (941) 7958704 or editor@southwindssailing.com .

A D S

Garmin 175 Hand-Held GPS/Chartplotter Purchased new 1998; little used. Includes 2 Garmin G-Charts for the U.S. West Coast and Mexico, AC adapter, cigarette lighter adapter, manual, padded case. $275. (813) 925-0500, e-mail sailcompania@msn.com. (11/04)

MARINE ENGINES

CREW AVAILABLE/WANTED Visit SOUTHWINDS “NEW” boat and crew listing service at southwindssailing.com

ELECTRONICS SeaTech Systems – Computerized navigation & communication. Call for free Cruiser’s Guide to the Digital Nav Station and CAPN demo disk. (800) 444-2581 or (281) 3341174, navcom@sea-tech.com, www.sea-tech.com

HELP WANTED Yacht Salesperson Wanted. Massey Yacht Sales has sales positions available for professional, successful yacht salespersons for the new Fort Myers dealership location. Massey is one of Florida’s largest dealers for the sale and outfitting of Catalina, Hunter, Caliber and Mainship yachts plus sells a wide range of preowned sail and power yachts. Sales candidates need to be computer literate, self-motivated with a good knowledge of the sail and power industry. Massey offers the best marketing and sales support system with a large lead base for the right candidate. Call Edward Massey for interview appointment. (941) 7231610. (11/04)

MISCELLANEOUS BOAT GEAR NEW & USED Rigging Cable, New, 7 X 19, 7/16”, Stainless steel, non-magnetic, 600 feet. $2/foot. (904) 461-1253 (12/04) Pactor IIPro Modem Includes cables for Icom 710 SSB radio and remote computer control.

Do e-mail using your SSB! $600.

(813) 925-0500, e--mail sailcompania@msn.com. (11/04)

Regional editor wanted for the southeast coast here which includes the Carolinas and Georgia. Part time and spare time as an independent writer to write about sailing, racing and cruising, put together a calendar for the region, and other misc. sailing and related news and articles. Must be a good communicator and have a computer, some writing experience, e-mail, good with the internet, and a great personality, and, of course, be into sailing. This is a chance to mix business and pleasure. Not a lot of hours or money but great potential. (941) 795-8704 or editor@southwindssailing.com. (11/04)

DISPLAY CLASSIFIEDS STARTING AT $34/MONTH 82

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

www.southwindssailing.com

C L A S S I F I E D

A D S NAVIGATION SOFTWARE

REAL ESTATE

Single side-band transceiver (Yaesu), amateur/marine, antenna, antenna tuner, excellent, $475. (941) 235-1890. (11/04) Yanmar, YSE-12, marine engine, transmission, alternator, mounts, manual, extra injectors and many spare parts. $ 450 obo. e-mail captctc@yahoo.com, (727) 345-3212. (11/04) Wheels Custom Leathered – Satisfaction guaranteed, 1 year warranty. Free turks head. Over 100 satisfied customers last year. Contact Ray Glover at Sunrise Sails Plus (941) 721-4471 or sunrisesailsplus@msn.com

AC/DC Reefer, 22# Bruce Anchor, Anchor Ball, Sospenders, Magma Grills, Mariner 9.9 Mercury Long Shaft 7.5 HP, Folding Bikes, Windsurfers, Metzeler Sailing Rig, Windscoop, Drogues, Lifesling, Type I Life Jackets w/strobe. Nautical Trader. (941) 488-0766. www.nauticaltrader.net 2001 Mercury 6 HP, 4-stroke outboard $750 OBO. e-mail:sailcompania@msn.com. (11/04) Henri Lloyd TP 2000 Rapid foul weather gear. Great condition. Two sets, jackets plus bibs. Size large, red. Size medium, yellow. $150/set. (813) 925-0500, e-mail sailcompania@msn.com. (11/04)

Ft. Lauderdale Waterfront Home Ocean Access. No fixed bridges. Sale/Lease option.

Ft. Lauderdale. New River. Downtown. New pool, dock. 3/2 with den, 2 car garage, $449,900 or $2500 a month. (954) 7679877. horus8@bellsouth.net. (11/04) Miami Waterfront River House for Rent Deep dockage 60 Ft. No fixed bridges to bay.

3/2, New AC, New Kitchen, Garage, Florida Room, Utility room, wood and tile floors. $2000 Month w/dock, Without dock $1500.

Fenced yard. Near airport. (305) 799-9589.

(11/04)

SAILING INSTRUCTION

ACR “Rapid Ditch” ditch bag Bright yellow, roomy with pockets for GPS, handheld radio, EPIRB. Floatable. $50. (813) 925-0500, e-mail sailcompania@msn.com. (11/04)

LODGING FOR SAILORS

Tiralo floating deck chair - a beach chair that floats in water and rolls easily on the sand.

Looks great. Folds and fits on your boat or inside your car. More info: www.tiralousa.com or swti@oasisllc.com

Ponce de Leon Hotel Historic downtown hotel at the bay, across from St. Petersburg YC. 95 Central Ave. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 550-9300 FAX (727) 826-1774 www.poncedeleon hotel.com

SEE CLASSIFIED INFO ON PAGE 79 Local News For Southern Sailors

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

83

CLASSIFIED ADS SAILS & CANVAS

SERVICES FOR SAILORS

USED SAILS SAVE $$$ 1000s of headsails, mains & spinnakers. We ship everywhere, satisfaction guaranteed. We also buy sails. Sail Exchange. (800) 628-8152. 407 Fullerton Ave. Newport Beach CA 92663 www.sailexchange.com See Display ad in Index of advertisers.

WINDSURFING GEAR Wanted: Used Prodigy (standard or race), other boards, miscellaneous windsurfing equipment. Steve (941) 795-8704, editor@southwindssailing.com

SOUTHEAST COAST SAILING continued from page 50 donating the minimum of $250, as well as the 25 official sponsors, members and their guests, were rewarded by a super dinner party featuring food prepared and catered by Fuzzy’s Place. Music was provided by the Bad House Tears band, in addition to a very articulate Special Olympian guest speaker, Kelly Kettles, who captured the very souls of the group attending the après race party on Saturday night with her victory speech. Trophies were awarded Sunday after the second day of racing as the celebration continued with a cookout.

Results (first, second, third, PHRF): Low Non-Spinnaker;1, LLSC/Mike Iuvone (Strega-Hunter 30), 2, SSC/Dennis Edmiston (Impetuous-Pearson 31) 3, UYC/John Wirtz (Flash-J 27) and SSC/Ivars Blumenau (QMN-Beneteau 35) tied for third. Total participants 8; High NonSpinnaker; 1, SSC/Mark Adams (Little Red Boat-Cal 21), 2, BFSC/Consuelo Godden (Hokey Smoke-San Juan 23) & SSC/Scott Mcallister (Scott Free-O’day272) tied for second and BFSC/Steve O’ Hagan (The Alliance-Hunter 31) and SSC/Mark Lovstrom (Question Mark-Newport 27) tied for third. Total participants 6; : High Spinnaker; 1, SSC/Ray Davis (Ray-Lin-Hunter 28.5), LLSC/Steve Sudderth (Dixie Chic-J 24) & SSC/Mike Reynolds (Yeah Baby-Santana 525) tied for second and BFSC/Frank Atkinson (Shamless-Santana 20) third place. Total participants 11; Low Spinnaker; 1,LLSC/Randy Phillips (Dangerous Curves-Wavelength 24), SSC/Tom Sawchuk (Breakaway-C & C 99) & BFSC/Tom Roberts (Wind WizardExpress 27). Total participants 11;Cruiser Class; 1, Don Curt (Furcon II) 2, Fred Kempner (Dream’n), 3, Jim Eigel (Amazed, Catalina 35). Total Participants 8.

84

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

INDEX

OF

ADVERTISERS

TELL THEM YOU SAW IT IN SOUTHWINDS! . . . . . . . . .

THIS LIST IS PROVIDED AS A COURTESY AND WE ASK OUR READERS TO SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS. THIS LIST INCLUDES ALL DISPLAY ADVERTISING. ..............................................

AIR DUCK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 AMERICA S GENERATORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 AQUA GRAPHICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 ATLANTIC SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 BANKS SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19,72 BEACHMASTER PHOTOGRAPHY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 BENETEAU SAILBOATS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BC BETA MARINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 BLUEWATER SAILING SUPPLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 BOATERS EXCHANGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53, 80 BOATUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 BOB AND ANNIE S BOATYARD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 BO SUN SUPPLIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 BUBBA BOOK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 CAPE FEAR YACHTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 CARSON/BENETEAU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BC CHARLESTON SPARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 CHARLESTON TO BERMUDA RACE . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 COAST WEATHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 CORAL REEF APPAREL COMPANY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 CROW S NEST RESTAURANT/MARINA REGATTA . .40 CRUISING DIRECT SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 DAVIS ISLAND YC THANKSGIVING REGATTA . . . . .71 DEFEND CUBA SAILORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 DEFENDER INDUSTRIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 DOCKSIDE MARINE SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 DOCKSIDE RADIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 DON S SALVAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 DOYLE SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 DWYER MAST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 EASTERN/BENETEAU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BC EL CID CARIBE MARINA, MEXICO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 E-MARINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 FLEETSIDE MARINE SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 FLYING SCOT SAILBOATS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 FRIGOBOAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 GARHAUER HARDWARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 GIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 GLACIER BAY REFRIGERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 GREAT OUTDOORS PUBLISHING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 GULF COAST YACHT SALES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8,79 GUNKHOLER S CRUISING GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 HANSE SAILBOATS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 HOTWIRE/FANS AND OTHER PRODUCTS . . . . . .16,82 HUNTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44,45 ISLAND MARINE PRODUCTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 JR OVERSEAS/MOISTURE METER . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 JS9000 PHRF RACER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 LEATHER WHEEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 MANTON MARINE SURVEYING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 MARTEK DINGHY DAVITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 MASSEY YACHT SALES . . . . . . . . . .3,11,31,37,43, IBC MASTHEAD ENTERPRISES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29,67,84 MEMORY MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 MIKE SHEA MARITIME LEGAL SERVICES . . . . . . . . .27 MURRAY YACHT SALES/BENETEAU . . . . . . . . . . . .BC NATIONAL BOAT OWNERS ASSOCIATION . . . . . . . .75 NATIONAL SAIL SUPPLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 NAUTICAL TRADER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 NORTH SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 NUCLEAR SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 PARADISE YACHT SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 PERFORMANCE SAIL AND SPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 PORPOISE USED SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 RAIDER SAILBOATS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 RB GROVE/UNIVERSAL AND WESTERBEKE . . . . . .65 REGATA DEL SOL AL SOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 RONSTAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 RPARTS REFRIGERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 SAIL EXCHANGE/USED SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 SAILBOATS FLORIDA, INC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 SAILCOVERS AND MORE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 SAILING SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 SAILOR S WHARF BOATYARD& BROKERAGE . .68,71 SAILTIME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,35 SARASOTA YOUTH SAILING PROGRAM . . . . . . . . . .78 SCHURR SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 SCULLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 SCURVY DOG MARINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 SEA SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 SEA TECH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25,82 SEA, AIR, LAND TECHNOLGIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL BROKERAGE . . . .12,81 SHADETREE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 SSMR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 ST. AUGUSTINE SAILING SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . .51,83 ST. BARTS/BENETEAU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BC SUNCOAST INFLATABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 TACKLE SHACK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 TAMPA SAILING SQUADRON YOUTH PROGRAM . .74 TERRA NOVA TRADING KEY WEST . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 ULLMAN SAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 US SPARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 WEATHER WAVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 WEST MARINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IFC WEST MARINE BOOKS AND CHARTS . . . . . . . . . . . .41 WINCH BUDDY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 WINDCRAFT CATAMARANS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66 YACHTING VACATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 YANMAR DIESEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82

www.southwindssailing.com

FIRST SAILBOAT RACE continued from page 86 the spinnaker, and the jib was lowered to prepare for the last leg of the race. The wind was coming in directly behind us, the salt spray stinging my back where it found the cut from the car.

The captain asked me to move forward so the extra weight could be used to “push down the front.” I tucked away my camera, which had been caught by another crew person before going overboard, handed it down into the galley and stood to start my walk. Reaching the bow, I was told where to sit and settled in with hopes of completely staying out of the way. I had been bruised enough for one day and looked forward to simply getting back on land.

Knowing a strong drink was in my near future made the last of the ride more bearable.

“Open the clutch” was all I heard before a line caught the side of my arm and raced up across my neck. In a split second, I turned my head and flung my body downwards, the last of the line catching me across my right temple and outer eye socket. The rope burn would last for three weeks.

That was it! I pressed my body as close to the deck as I could get it and refused to move. The sound of the air horn as we crossed the finish line finally made me release my grip on the gunwale.

The sails were taken down, furled and stored. Trying to assist in any way I could, I picked up empty cans, lined up the winch handles and laid all of the ropes in a single pile next to the coverings. As I stepped off, one of the crew asked if I would be back out next week. With all the courage I could muster, I looked him square in the eye and said, “Hell, yeah. You guys better not leave without me!” I have been out every Thursday night since.

EXPLORING continued from page 33 Hendricks one morning as he was unloading his fresh catch at the dock. He showed us his bevy of big beauties and told us a few culinary secrets we promised not to tell. Later, his remarks proved true as we forked into a most succulent lobster dinner. Hendricks has just opened an enclosed airconditioned dining room, but we preferred to sit outside, barefoot and just steps from the beach to take in the full island experience.

Barefoot is the best way to enjoy White Bay, a fiveminute dinghy ride to the west from Great Harbour. The roly-poly swell makes this a day anchorage only. Ivan’s Stress Free Bar and Campground is at the far east side of the bay. Ivan Chinnery’s bar is truly stress-free; help yourself to a drink and leave the correct change on the counter.

Local and visiting musicians, collectively dubbed by Ivan as the “Ever Changing International All Star Band,” get together for jam sessions on sporadic weeknights and almost every weekend. Do come. This eclectic mix is better than any formal concert.

Down the beach is a string of beach bars that now almost rivals Great Harbour. There’s the Sandcastle, home of the quaint Sandcastle resort and its famous Soggy Dollar bar. A painkiller, a potent mix of coconut-flavored nutmegtopped rum, is the drink to order. Down the beach, at the One Love Bar, bushwhackers are the house drink. Ask owner Seddy Callwood, one of Foxy’s sons, to show you his sleight-of-hand card and coin tricks.

At the end of the beach, Frank Mahoney rents jet boats, Local News For Southern Sailors

paddleboats, kayaks, Sunfish and water bikes. He also rents all-terrain vehicles that are perfect for driving up the steep road behind White Bay. Up on Majohnny Hill, at an elevation of over 1,000 feet, we could see our boat and the anchorages we visited. Someday, this little island might be full of hotels, shopping complexes and traffic jams. But for now, it’s a slice of quintessential Caribbean that can only be visited by boat.

BUBBA continued from page 34 We have a lot of people who want to know how to flake the mainsail on the boom, so they can look like serious racing sailors, even if they never race. When it comes to Offshore Folding, we can teach them what they need to know,” Whartz concluded, finishing his beer and ordering another.

“What do you charge,” I asked.

“A case of beer,” answered Bubba.

“That’s all?”

“Imported beer, you know, something that comes from out of state,” explained Whartz. “I am not without my refinements.”

It was time to go. “Doobie,” I said, “what’s the damage?”

“Bubba’s three beers came to $4.50 and your coffee was $5,” she responded.

I came up with a $10 bill and added a buck for a gratuity. Doobie is a good lady to not get on the wrong side of, even if she charges a lot of money for coffee and, as she calls it, soda pop.

SOUTHWINDS

November 2004

85

First Sailboat Race — It Can Only Get Better From Here On

By Jim Burkett

B

y invitation, I arrived at the yacht club around 5:30 p.m., prepared to photograph my first sail race. Locking my car in the nonmembers parking lot, I proceeded through the gate, past the dry docks and headed toward the club. This was the fist time I had ever been this close to the “action,” and I walked as aggressively as I could, trying not to show any intimidation.

My head twisted in every direction as I took in the different size and design of each boat. Some of them were being dollied from their storage and maneuvered toward the lifts by women, doing it as easily and efficiently as any man. My perceptions of this being a “man’s sport” were quickly evaporating. I tried to logically define why some of the boats were named as they were but gave up before I finally reached the club.

Catching up with a couple of “old salts,” I slipped right in with the group and followed them through the door, waiting for my friend to arrive. After about 15 minutes, he strolled in only to let me know that the boat was full, and there was no room left for me to ride. I would need to either shoot from the shore or crew aboard another boat. Crew with a boat? I wasn”t ready for this, but what could go wrong, right? I jumped at the chance and was quickly assigned to a J/35. Finding out where she was docked, I ran out to meet up with “the guys” and introduce myself.

After explaining my purpose for being there, I was relieved to hear, “Welcome aboard.” Handing across my gear, I stepped from the dock and proceeded to lift my left foot over the railing, only to have the boat shift a little from its mooring. No dancer has ever done a more perfect split, and no prune juice would be required tonight. I grabbed hold of the nearest outstretched hand and pulled as hard as I could. The pop in my shoulder still echoes in my mind.

The captain showed me where to sit, introduced me to the crew, began to call his orders for them to get under way, which duties they would be responsible for and checked to make sure all equipment was properly laid out and within reach as needed. The main sail and jib were attached; then the spinnaker was laid out and readied. My job, when not shooting, would be to help “balance the weight,” keep my head down and move when instructed. This I could do when told, so I excused myself and crept down the ladder into the galley to load my camera. I sat for a while taking in the sight of the mahogany interior, the appliances that rotated to stay level and the sounds of the waves slapping up against the hull. It was all new to me. This was great.

Stepping on the last rung of the ladder on my exit, I heard the shout of “prepare to tack.” All right, I thought;

86

November 2004

SOUTHWINDS

nautical terms. This is cool. The boat broached, and I lost my balance just as the boom caught me in the left side of the head, knocking me back down into the galley. My fall was broken by the edge of a bunk, and I staggered to my knees. I remember shouting something myself, but I can’t recall what it was, something I’m sure my mother would never have approved of. Holding on with both hands, I stepped back up the ladder, both sets of eyes and ears alert to the captain’s movements, and nearly dove into the cockpit when I felt it was safe.

I had just fired off my first shot when I heard the call to move to port. Having never been on a sailboat before, it was the left side, right side, front and rear to me. With no sea legs yet and unsure of my balance, I was reduced to a crawl to get from one spot to another. My hesitation proved to be another learning lesson. As a crew member winched the jib line, it struck me in the kneecap, metal to cartilage, no contest. I sprawled across the deck and began to push myself one-legged to my destination. With one arm hanging over port, I pulled myself into a sitting position and lowered both legs over. Raising my camera, I again began to shoot each boat, trying to catch as much action as I could. The pain began to subside a little as I concentrated with each click of the shutter.

Once again I heard, “Prepare to tack,” and this time I was ready. The pain in my head, shoulder and knee was not going to stop me from showing anyone I could crew as good as the “next guy.” Waiting for just the right moment, I swung my legs up toward the starboard side and began a crab crawl, all four limbs going as fast as they could. No sooner had I reached mid-deck when I heard screaming in my ear, “Not feet first.” Too late. Gravity grabbed hold and I started my slide backwards toward the port railing. I let go of my camera and flailed away at anything that would stop me. A car dug into my back as I slid over it. Just as my face felt the first slap of saltwater, my fingers caught around a deck rope, and I gripped it as tight as I could. Again, hands were extended.

For the next 45 minutes I cowered in the back of the cockpit and watched as the crew went about their tasks, quickly moving ahead to lead. There was no doubt in my mind they had been together for a while as they worked in unison, each tuning done with precision. A simple hand movement or call was all that was needed. My body was starting to hurt, and my knee was stiffening from lack of movement. Rounding the final mark, the call went out for See FIRST SAILBOAT RACE continued on page 85 www.southwindssailing.com