SpinSheet Magazine April 2024

2008 41’ Hunter - $142,000 Curtis Stokes - 954.684.0218

1982 37’ Hunter - $22,000 Dennis Mancinelli - 404.395.6688

1986 37’ Dickerson - $40,000 Lars Bergstrom - 910.899.7941

1986 38’ Irwin - $69,000 Brian Mouldey - 941.374.1697

2014 37’ Custom - $225,000 Lars Bergstrom - 910.899.7941

1994 40’ Hunter Legend - $80,000 Chris Rodriguez - 786.897.4415

1985 40’ Tartan - $85,000 Lars Bergstrom - 910.899.7941

2002 48’ Hazns Christian - $400,000 Jim Edwards - 252.474.6000

2004 42’ Beneteau - $139,500 Curtis Stokes - 954.684.0218

1977 41’ Morgan - $45,000 Lars Bergstrom - 910.899.7941

2014 48’ Beneteau Oceanus - $249,000 Curtis Stokes - 954.684.0218

1991 35’ Hunter - $67,500 Jim Edwards - 252.474.6000

Breakdowns are unpredictable but with an Unlimited Towing Membership, we promise to have your back should the unexpected happen. Sit back, relax and enjoy your time on the water worry-free.

JOIN THE CELEBRATION

For 50 years, Sunsail has set the standard for sailing vacations in the world’s greatest yachting destinations. With a global team of passionate, experienced sailors, we are proud to share this one-of-a-kind vacation experience with the world - from newbies to old salts, and everyone in between.

Join us as we celebrate our golden anniversary, and help us usher in the next 50 years of exploration, adventure, thrilling sailing and unlimited fun. It wouldn’t be the same without you!

“...the best charter experience I’ve had in 20 years of bareboating and flotilla holidays.”

“The Boat and staff were exceptional... doing whatever they could to make our sail perfect. And it WAS!”

Bareboat | Flotilla | Skippered | Schools

sunsail.com | 800.437.7880

Hanse 460

Hanse 348

43 on the cover

# Photo courtesy of Craig Ligibel

# Photo by Mark Hergan/ Deadrise Marine Photography

59

56

Features

43

Virginia’s Northern Neck Is for Lovers

The state slogan stands the test of time on and near the Northern Neck along the Rappahannock.

By Craig Ligibel presented by Argo

46

What’s New at Sailing Schools?

News from Chesapeake sailing schools plus a true story about how to go from sailing a Snark to becoming a licensed captain.

By Staff and Captain Cheryl Duvall

56

Preparation for Offshore: Skipper Tips Beyond the Race Requirements

Some “street smarts” of experienced, winning offshore racers based here on the Chesapeake.

By Captain Steven Toole

59

Bluewater Dreaming: Safety and Security Onboard

With security on the front page and on cruisers’ minds, here are tips to avoid trouble and deter unwanted visitors. By Cindy Wallach presented by M yAcht services

# Photo by Cindy Wallach

74

Spring Racing Fun!

Spring tune-up regattas, Charleston Race Week, Bacardi Cup, and more racing news for Chesapeake sailors. presented by Mount gAy ruM

99

Sail Baltimore: Welcoming Tall Ships

From Around the World Since 1975

When international tall ships sail up the Chesapeake, Sail Baltimore rolls out the red carpet to make them feel at home.

In March, Mark Hergan of Deadrise Marine Photography took this month’s cover shot of two crew members of the Peruvian naval training barque Unión in Baltimore. Learn more on page 99.

•Unmatched reliability and performance

•Friendly and knowledgeable technical support

•U.S. family owned and operated

•More than 40 years direct industry experience

•Built to handle rigourous U.S. military demands

•AGM sealed maintenance free technology

• Charges 20% faster than flooded ba�eries

•Five year pro-rated warranty

612 Third Street, Suite 3C, Annapolis, MD 21403 (410) 216-9309 spinsheet.com

PUBLISHER

Mary Iliff Ewenson, mary@spinsheet.com

A SSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Chris Charbonneau, chris@spinsheet.com

EDITOR

Molly Winans, molly@spinsheet.com

SENIOR EDITORS

Beth Crabtree, beth@spinsheet.com

Kaylie Jasinski, kaylie@spinsheet.com

COPY EDITOR

Lucy Iliff, lucy@spinsheet.com

FOUNDING EDITOR

Dave Gendell

ADVERTISING SALES

Eric Richardson, eric@spinsheet.com

Katie Lange, katie@spinsheet.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER

Brooke King, brooke@spinsheet.com

DISTRIBUTION / BROkERAGE / CLASSIFIEDS MANAGER

Beatrice M. Roderick , beatrice@spinsheet.com

ART DIRECTOR / PRODUCTION MANAGER

Zach Ditmars, zach@spinsheet.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER / PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Royal Snyder, royal@spinsheet.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kim Couranz, Chelsea Co, John Herlig, Eva Hill, Pamela Tenner Kellett, Craig Ligibel, Gwen Mayes, Lin McCarthy, Steven Toole, Cindy Wallach, Ed Weglein (Historian )

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Walter Cooper, Ben Cushwa, Mark Hergan, Will Keyworth, Ted Morgan, Al Schreitmueller, Cindy Wallach

DISTRIBUTION

Martin and Betty Casey, Gregory and Dorothy Greenwell, Dave Harlock, Ron and Colleen Ogden, John and Chrissy Wathen

SpinSheet is a monthly magazine for and about Chesapeake Bay sailors. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited without prior consent of the officers of SpinSheet Publishing Company. SpinSheet Publishing Company accepts no responsibility for discrepancies in advertisements.

SpinSheet is available by first class subscription for $45 per year, and back issues are available for $4 each. Mail payment to SpinSheet Subscriptions, 612 Third Street, Suite 3C Annapolis, MD, 21403.

SpinSheet is distributed free of charge at more than 800 establishments along the shores Chesapeake Bay. Businesses or organizations wishing to distribute SpinSheet should contact the SpinSheet office at (410) 216-9309 or beatrice@spinsheet.com.

Member Of:

© 2024 SpinSheet Publishing Company

Why Smart Sailors Attend Safety at Sea

Many thanks for contacting me and including a great feature on the Safety at Sea events (March issue, page 41)! From the photos to the design of the feature I couldn’t be more happy with the way you really put a focus on what we produce with Navy Sailing each year. Keep up the good work!

John Stefancik Executive Director Marine Trades Association of Maryland

You are most welcome. Safety at Sea provides a gold mine of information for offshore sailors, and we highly recommend it. For anyone who does not yet know about the upcoming Annapolis event April 6-7, visit mtam.org/safety-at-sea and read more at spinsheet.com

~M.W.

A Heartfelt Thank You and Shared Love of the Chesapeake

When we read this note in Lin McCarthy’s Southern Bay News You Can Use, we were blown away. Lin has been a SpinSheet contributor since the beginning and acts as our Southern Bay informant, reporter, and loyal friend:

Here is a very biased and heartfelt thank you from the Southern Chesapeake Bay to SpinSheet Magazine!

Spring is almost upon us, and it’s time to let everyone know how much we all appreciate the relationship our racing and cruising communities enjoy with SpinSheet, the Chesapeake’s own sailing magazine! Starting with the March issue and its commissioning checklists, advice on pets aboard, thoughts on marina selection, and more, SpinSheet has given every sailor a perfect “start of the season” reference source.

Over the years have come the Crew Parties, Century Club, and Racing Team, all guides for sailors pursuing the passion of their sport. Every SpinSheet is loaded with schedules of sailing events, outcomes of racing competitions, sailing schools, and special programs information, crew parties, and awards listings.

The SpinSheet team is present at and sometimes participates in our regattas and is always ready to lend a helping hand on spreading the word. What makes SpinSheet special is their people, most of whom we know by their first names. We share with them, and they share with us, our love of the Chesapeake Bay. Thank you, SpinSheet!

Lin McCarthy Hampton, VA

We love you, too, Lin! We are grateful to have you on our team. ~M.W.

# First opsrey sighting Gilbert Run, Charlotte Hall, MD, on March 12. Photo by Toni Knisley

# Purdy Point, Gibson Island. Photo by Bob Kadel

# A sock burning at Horn Point Harbor Marina in Annapolis on the spring equinox. Photo by Jessica Pachler/Facebook.

Abuzz in April

You may be torching a pair of old winter socks as we send this issue of SpinSheet to print. However much I enjoy the sailor’s tradition of toasting the equinoctial gods around a bonfire come spring, I rarely participate as it’s usually a crazy busy—or I think of it as a “buzzy”—time of year around here… Crew parties! Boat shows! Regatta schedules!

Although frantically planning ahead as I write, I’m still reeling from excitement following Cole Brauer’s success in the Global Solo Challenge last month. She broke the world record as the first American woman to race around the world solo and unassisted and finished in second place in a grueling race during which more than half of her 15 (all male) competitors dropped out.

More than this spectacular accomplishment—which to be clear would have been spectacular for a five-foot, two-inch, 29-year-old male sailor, too—the buzz she created through her social media account riveted me. Her genuine smile, her upbeat and friendly tone, her showing the world through Instagram videos her onboard daily life from how she washed her hair and undies to waiting for

weather windows to raise sails, was refreshingly honest, fun, and different from what we’ve seen in the past. Forget the glass ceiling; she just blasted the fiberglass decks off a “serious adventurer” style of onboard communication for ocean racers. We loved it. So did 500,000 of her Insta friends and the mainstream press.

I have much more to say on the subject of how this accomplished young skipper and athlete could positively impact the sailing world than I have room to write, so stand by as I gather my thoughts. For now, know that I am among her biggest fans and find her achievements and attitude heartening. I bow to you, Cole. Bravo!

In the heartbreak department, sailors mourn the loss of Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel, cruisers (and former Virginians) who went missing in St. Vincent and are presumed dead after what appears to have been a violent struggle on their catamaran Simplicity We at SpinSheet send love and light to their families as they grieve this devastating loss.

As Caribbean cruiser and SpinSheet columnist Cindy Wallach points out in her “Bluewater Dreaming” column, “Safety and Security Onboard,” the couple were in the wrong place at the wrong time. There’s no way to know whether a run-in with escaped prisoners could have been avoided. What Wallach does offer are helpful resources for arming cruising sailors with knowledge about a place, such as the Caribbean Safety and Security Net (an excellent and new-to-me resource), and ways to outfit your sailboat to deter unwanted visitors abroad or at home on the Chesapeake (see page 59).

Moving forward, we’re abuzz at the SpinSheet World Headquarters about the Bay Bridge Boat Show, April 12-14, and the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show, April 26-28. Our team will be at both events meeting SpinSheet, PropTalk, and FishTalk readers and talking boats and future article ideas (find details and events on page 24).

All sailors of all levels are welcome at our free SpinSheet Crew Parties: Saturday, April 6 from 6-8 p.m. at Marker 20 in Hampton, VA, and Sunday, April 28 from 4-6 p.m. at the Eastport Yacht Club in Annapolis. The latter will be held outdoors rain or shine. Bring friends and come make some new ones. We’ll see you there!

# Photos by @colebrauerracing/ Instagram

✓ Items not available anywhere else.

✓ One-stop resource with deep inventory.

✓ Easy-to-reach technical sales staff.

✓ Extensive free how-to content.

✓ Competitive pricing.

✓ Quick shipping.

✓ FREE shipping over $199*.

Youth Sailing Virginia Celebrates its 10-Year Anniversary

The “little community sailing program that could” turns 10 years old this year! Youth Sailing Virginia (YSV), which sits on Mill Creek off Fort Monroe in Hampton has been growing strong for years. Captain Kevin Ely’s determination was instrumental in birthing YSV, as he sought a venue for his sons’ sailing team at Fort Monroe’s Mill Creek. With unwavering enthusiasm, he secured the site and constructed a pier with countless volunteers and Hampton’s support.

YSV thrived into a hub for high school racing teams and became an accredited US Sailing Community Sailing Center, offering diverse programs benefiting countless youth. Kevin’s unexpected passing last year left the organization looking to the future and committed to keeping his legacy alive, which is evident in the jam-packed calendar for the 2024 season.

“We’re rocking and rolling,” says executive director Jacob Raymond. “High school sailing has kicked off, and Christopher Newport University’s team practices here.”

Prior to joining YSV six months ago, Raymond was the director of Community Sailing New Orleans, programs manager at Sail Nauticus, and the director of

education at the College of Charleston Sailing Program. He is no stranger to competitive sailing or community sailing.

“The thing I get most excited about is exposing those who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to go sailing, eliminating that socio-economic barrier to the sport of sailing.”

YSV is one of 43 accredited US Sailing Community Sailing Centers in the United States, serves as a hub for high school racing, hosting regattas for the Virginia Interscholastic Sailing Association (VISA) and the Mid-Atlantic Interscholastic Sailing Association, and being a REACH US Sailing STEM Education Center.

Raymond says, “We’re rolling out a handful of new opportunities this season.”

A grant from the Virginia Outdoor Foundation enabled YSV to obtain a fleet of rotomolded prams for younger summer camp students. Also new this season are YSV’s adult learn-to-sail and membership programs (available on a sliding scale starting at $1 to make them affordable to all). For families who’d like to learn to sail along with their children, a family option will be available.

Board President Alan Bomar says, “We have strong high school sailing in the spring and fall. We have solid feet underneath ourselves with learn-to-sail programs and great partnerships with those in our community not necessarily exposed to sailing—we’re growing that. In 2024, we started building a fleet of Typhoons; we expect to have three on the water for our adult learn-to-sail program.”

He adds, “Mill Creek is a perfect small-boat sailing venue and a great place to be able to watch regattas. We also started a radio-controlled sailing program in 2022 and had a national event in 2023 and plan to have more this year.”

YSV’s team is running a thriving sailing program for all to enjoy and is committed to providing access to all waterfront activities starting with teaching youth water safety. Its program provides sailing instruction by US Sailing Certified Instructors to youth in beginner, intermediate, introduction to racing, water safety and survival, and family learn-to-sail (all ages).

YSV is so grateful for all of the support from years past and today, from volunteers, to donors, to its community leaders and officials, there’s just too many to name! Learn more at youthsailingva.org

# Young sailors on FJs out of Youth Sailing Virginia. Photo by David Stalfort

navigating peace of mind

THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE

Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, lled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, safeguarding your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.

Unpredictable waters

The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you nancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.

Damage and injury

Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to speci ed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.

Theft and vandalism

Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.

Incurred medical payments

Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.

Peace of mind for nancing

If you nanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only ful lls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your nancial interests are safeguarded.

Navigational exibility

Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the exibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.

Emergency towing and assistance

Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.

Wreckage removal

If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).

Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with con dence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.

Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes

Go to progressive.com to learn more.

DockTalk

# On select weekends this summer, CBMM is offering private charters aboard its historic floating fleet vessels to watch log canoe races on the Miles River. Photo by Sharon Thorpe

When you think of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) in St. Michaels, MD, you’re probably familiar with the museum aspect of the facility. But there’s so much more to CBMM, including ample opportunities to get out on the water. We’ve rounded up a few.

Providing on-the-water experiences is central to CBMM’s mission, and the addition of the cruise boat Patriot to the fleet last summer has expanded the offerings available for guests this year.

A St. Michaels tradition dating back to 1969, Patriot is a 65-foot, two-level vessel modeled to resemble a Chesapeake Bay steamboat with a capacity to provide tours for up to 149 passengers. Patriot Cruises begins its season on the weekend of April

20-21 in conjunction with the Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival at CBMM and continues through the end of October.

Guests can make reservations now and save at patriotcruises. com on cruises throughout the season. Combo tickets, good for a narrated historical cruise and CBMM general admission, are also now available through the Patriot Cruises website and will be sold at the ticket booth during the season.

On select weekends this summer, CBMM is also offering private river cruises aboard its historic floating fleet vessels to watch log canoe races on the Miles River. These two-hour charters, scheduled for June 29 and 30, July 27 and 28, and Sept. 7, 8, 14, and 15, offer a chance for up to six passengers to get an up-close view at a unique Eastern Shore tradition. The cost is $375 per charter, with a 20 percent discount for CBMM members.

Registration for these cruises is open now at bit.ly/ LogCanoeCruises2024, with a three-week sign-up period exclusively for CBMM members before open registration begins April 1. There are a limited number of charters available, and all cruises are dependent on marine conditions.

To become a CBMM member and access early registration as well as the charter discount, Patriot discount, and all the other exclusive programming and benefits of membership, visit cbmm.org/memberships

New for this year, Patriot Cruises will be offering morning log canoe spectator cruises on days there is racing in the Miles River, as well. Stay tuned to cbmm.org/cruises for the latest information.

Four Critical Paperwork Tasks When Selling a Boat

Spring is often prime boat-buying season, but before you sell a boat, you must know that you are not in the free and clear until critical paperwork is done right. BoatUS has a helpful seller’s paperwork to-do list to make sure there are no surprises.

1. Cancel the boat insurance policy. This is the first thing most boat sellers do right. It’s super important to cancel a vessel’s insurance policy once the sale goes through. Not doing so potentially adds unnecessary risk and potential liability to the seller. Also don’t forget to cancel any automatic bank payments that were set up to pay policy premiums.

2. Release the DSC-VHF radio’s Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number. If you’re selling your boat, remember a key fact about MMSIs: Once issued, the MMSI number stays assigned to the boat (installed VHF radios). The emergency contact information,

among other data, requires updating. If a seller forgets to release the MMSI number to the buyer, a future mayday distress aboard the vessel could delay first responders. BoatUS members can release or update an MMSI for no cost at BoatUS.com/MMSI

3. A seller will need to ensure an Emergency Position-Indicating Rescue Beacon (EPIRB) attached to the boat is updated with new owner contact information. To update an EPIRB go to NOAA’s Beacon Registration site and change the status to “Sold/Transferred.” Once this happens, the new owner can register the beacon in their name with their own emergency contact information.

4. Contact the state boat registration agency to advise them that the boat was sold. Sending a letter by mail or email to your state’s boat registration agency acknowledging the boat has a new owner may help prevent future misdirected registration renewal

notices. In some states it is a legal requirement to report any change in vessel ownership status within a certain number of days with the name of the purchaser, purchase price, and date of sale.

For more tips, check out the BoatUS free Boat Buying and Selling Guide at boatus.com

# If you have an EPIRB attached to the boat, make sure it is updated with new owner contact information.

Photo courtesy of BoatUS

Frogman Swim Fundraiser

The Annapolis Frogman Swim fundraiser will make its splash on April 28 at the Bay Ridge Community Beach. Now in its second year, the 5K (3.2-mile) open water swim raises funds for the Navy SEAL Foundation in honor of fallen Naval Academy graduates who served as SEALs or special warfare combatants. Each swimmer is expected to raise $2000. The inaugural event (called the Annapolis Trident Swim) raised more than $46,000. Registration for this year’s swim closed on March 31, with 50 registrants.

On-water volunteers are needed! Each swimmer is required to have a kayaker escort, who will guide the swimmer, provide needed assistance, and communicate with safety boats. The swimmer and kayaker work as a team on the water. It is preferred that kayakers bring their own equipment, but Capital SUP of Annapolis will provide kayaks (including delivery to the site),

paddles, and PFDs for participants at a cost of $50 per kayaker when needed. Volunteers with jet skis are also needed to augment the official safety patrol boats. Interested volunteers who are experienced open water kayakers and jet ski operators, please inquire with event organizers Chris Swenson or David Priddy, whose contact information is available at annapolisfrogman.com. A variety of volunteer roles at the start, finish, and pre/post event are also available. All volunteers will receive a shirt and admission to the post-race party. Past volunteers say this is one of the most impactful and meaningful volunteer opportunities they’ve experienced.

The Frogman Swim Series traces its roots to swims across Tampa Bay in the late 1990s. Today it has grown into a national series of events, currently in Tampa, Boston, and Annapolis and has raised millions of dollars for the Navy SEAL Foundation. Local organizer David Priddy and his wife have participated in the Tampa event for the past six years and say the event’s mission inspired them to bring it to Annapolis.

“This isn’t a race,” says Priddy. “It’s a fundraising event. We do keep times, but the point is to raise awareness and funds for the mission of the Navy SEAL Foundation.”

Learn more or make a donation at annapolisfrogman.com

# Swimmers at the 2023 fundraising swim for the Navy SEAL Founation. Photo by Mark Goldberg/ courtesy of Annapolis Frogman Swim

Gary Jobson’s Documentary Film To Be Screened at Annapolis Film Festival

If seeing film producer Gary Jobson’s latest documentary project, “Unfurling the World,” about Irving and Electra Johnson’s exotic sailing voyages isn’t enough to draw you to the Annapolis Film Festival on April 6, you should know that Gary will be there, too, for a Q&A afterward!

“It was quite a complicated project, as all the footage was sitting at the Mystic Seaport Museum for ages… It took a year

to digitize all this old 8-mm and 16-mm footage and still images.”

Between 1933 and 1956, the Johnsons sailed with young, inexperienced sailors aboard two schooners, both named Yankee Each time they set sail, they witnessed new and remote places that few people had visited. Jobson narrates the original footage shot by Captain Johnson and the Yankee crew, which is archived at Mystic Seaport.

DOES YOUR BOAT NEED A REFIT?

We’ll take care of your boat’s every need and have her ready for the 2024 season.

Our schedule is filling up, so call us at 410-228-8878 discuss and schedule your project.

In exclusive interviews crew members share their memories of the voyages around the world. The travels took the Johnsons and crew to Easter Island and Bali where they met intriguing inhabitants and experienced true maritime history when they raised the anchor of the HMS Bounty on the Pitcairn Islands.

Jobson says, “Electra had these wonderful logs, but in this unique script, I had to learn how to read it! There were seven voyages. (In the film) I spend about seven or eight minutes on each voyage and interview some of the kids who were on the trips—who are now in their 70s and 80s.”

“It was so much fun,” he says. “All of these people going back in time. One woman named Julia Nichols (who was in her 80s when interviewed) had done the fifth voyage. When I asked her which was the most interesting place, she said ‘Bali. I fell in love with the lead dancer in the temple.’”

Two years later, the dancer showed up in Boston. Admitting that the romance was not as beautiful in Boston as it had been in Bali, she asked, “You’re not going to put this in the film, are you?” Jobson told her he would, and she laughed.

Jobson says, “The footage that was shot on these trips is remarkable. Irving and Electra had some sort of agreement with National Geographic, and they would go around the country to do lectures and recruit kids ages 16-24 to do another trip. Through all of their research and notes, I couldn’t find how much they’d charge these kids for a year and a half of voyages. It had to have been very expensive.”

After the “Unfurling the World” (77 minutes) screening on April 6 at noon, film goers may stay for a 20-minute Q&A with Jobson. Among the many ways he gives back to our community, he chairs the board of the Annapolis Film Festival. Learn more and buy tickets at annapolisfilmfestival.com

Call for Classic Vessels To Join the Schooner Race.

The Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race (GCBSR), known for its classic “Race to Market” from Baltimore to Norfolk in early October, has opened up a non-schooner class and is looking for participants in this year’s race. With fewer and fewer schooners and their captains available, the decision has been made to establish a non-schooner class which will include boats and rigs that might have been contemporaries of schooners during the 19th and 20th centuries. Whether ketches, yawls, bugeyes, skipjacks, sandbaggers or any other classic design, the call is out.

Beginning just south of the Bay Bridge, off Annapolis, the GCBSR is a 127-mile overnight race straight down the Bay. The race is challenging, and festivities abound at both ends of the Bay. Boats and crews participate in educational open houses, a parade of sail in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, and a Wednesday night crew party. At 12 o’clock noon on Thursday the gun goes off, and these beautiful boats pile on sail, bound for Norfolk.

After an evening negotiating currents, ships, and each other, dawn breaks as the schooners bear down on Thimble Shoal Light, the end of the course off Hampton Roads. Once across and tucked in at Freemason Harbor in Norfolk, crews dress ship and get ready for Saturday’s awards ceremony and oyster roast, deemed “the best party on the Bay.”

If you’ve been looking for a place to “strut your stuff” with your classic vessel, consider joining us. It’s a big race, a big deal, rewarding, chock full of stories for years to come, and great fun with welcoming and interesting people.

This year’s race is scheduled for October 2-6. Check your calendars. There’s a place on the line waiting for you. Go to GCBSR.org and choose “Bay Race” or email race@SchoonerRace.org.

# Schooners at the start line. Photo courtesy of GCBSR

Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show!

Who’s ready to get out on the water? Everyone, correct? April is the time to get excited about sailing and powerboating season, splash the boat, and set some goals for the season.

Don’t miss the Bay Bridge Boat Show and the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show, where you will find all kinds of boats, boaters, and boating gear to get you psyched and prepared for the season. Check back in the next issue of SpinSheet for full coverage of the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show. The May edition will be on the docks April 25, just in time for the show, and a show map will be in the center of the issue. Team SpinSheet staff will be at the show gates to offer you a copy.

Date: April 26-28

Location: City Dock, Annapolis

Hours: Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Show Highlights:

In addition to the many catamarans, monohulls, and racing boats, the show will feature dozens of landbased exhibitors with sailing gear and accessories. The Pride of Baltimore II tall ship will be open for deck tours. Representatives from charter companies will be onsite to provide guidance about planning your next liquid getaway. The No Wake Zone lounge will have live music by Shawn Owen and a tasting area to explore Maryland-made spirits and wines (guests age 21 and older only).

Educational Opportunities:

• Free Daily Seminars covering a wide range of topics from cruising destinations to radio etiquette to a women’s roundtable on racing.

• Family-friendly boating class Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. will introduce boating basics and safety on the water. Adult ticket for $23 includes Saturday show entry; children aged 12 and under are free.

• First Sail Workshop allows firsttime sailors the joy of 90 minutes on the water with an instructor and 45 minutes of classroom instruction. $65 fee includes show entry.

• Offshore Emergency Medicine, three-day class. Registration required. Certification may be earned upon completion of the full course.

• Cruisers University Diesel Maintenance & Advanced Diagnostics course is sold out. Contact Annapolis Boat Shows to add your name to the waitlist.

VIP Experience: VIP ticket includes show admission and entry into the VIP lounge located inside of Latitude 38 Waterfront Restaurant. The lounge includes a full bar starting at noon, continental breakfast, buffet lunch, and afternoon appetizers. Valid for one day only. $85

Tickets: $18 in advance at annapolisboatshows. com, $20 at the gate. Ages 12 and younger are free. Military personnel discount at the gate on Sunday only with ID.

Date: April 12-14

Location: Bay Bridge Marina, Stevensville, MD

Hours: Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets: $18 in advance at annapolisboatshows.com, $20 at the gate. Ages 12 and younger are free. Military personnel discount at the gate on Sunday only with ID.

PropTalk Demo Dock: Nothing beats going for a test ride. Visit the demo dock early in the day and reserve your ride. You won’t believe how many boats will be offering sea trails!

More Show Highlights: All three days the show will offer dozens of land exhibitors with boating gear, fabulous food vendors, a poolside bar, and music. In addition to the boats, the show features free daily

seminars covering a wide range of topics from cruising destinations to radio etiquette to fishing tips. BoatUS

and the Coast Guard Auxiliary will also offer boating classes; prior registration required.

# Photo courtesy of Annapolis Boat Shows

Chesapeake Calendar presented by

For more details and links to event websites, visit spinsheet.com/calendar

4-7 annapolis Film Festival 70+ films in four days in Annapolis, MD.

5-6 chronic Sailing ribbon cutting and open house

Chronic Sailing-charter, lessons, and captain services. Ribbon Cutting April 5 at 4 p.m. and Open House April 6 from noon to 5 p.m. Light refreshments and snacks served at both events. Open to all. 7082 Bembe Beach Road #204, Annapolis.

6-7 US Sailing Safety at Sea

Hosted by the Marine Trades Association of Maryland and U.S. Navy Sailing at The United States Naval Academy (Nathan Hall) in Annapolis. Register: mtam.org/safety-at-sea

6 capca leadership for captains

This program will be conducted by Arlene Karpas, a professional leadership, team building, and executive coaching consultant. Cost: $155, CAPCA/SBYC: $140. Register: capca.net

6 eastern Shore Sailing association tangier Fleet Skipper meeting

Eastern Shore Sailing Association (ESSA) plans to hold a winter meeting for skippers in the Tangier Fleet on Saturday, April 6.

April

6 eca appraisal road Show community Fundraiser

Doors open 11:30 a.m. for food truck and cash bar (come early to register your items and mingle over drinks and food). Appraisal Show 1 to 3 p.m. at the Eastport Democratic Club in Annapolis, MD. The appraisal cost is $10 per item, and you can bring as many as you want. The Eastport Civic Association will donate funds to youth programs.

6 SpinSheet hampton crew party

6 to 8 p.m. at Marker 20 (21 E Queens Way, Hampton, VA 23669). Conect with other Chesapeake Bay sailors and sail more often. Free and open to all experience levels. Register today by signing up for the SpinSheet Crew Finder or by updating your existing profile.

12-14 Bay Bridge Boat Show

Situated on the banks of the Chesapeake Bay with the beautiful Bay Bridge as its backdrop, this spring powerboat show marks the beginning of the boating season. At Bay Bridge Boat Marina in Stevensville, MD. Tickets: annapolisboatshows.com

13 Boats and Brews

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 231 Farm and Outdoor Sports (171 Skipjack RD, Prince Frederick, MD). Spring open house with local Mully’s beer, face painting, food vendors, raffles, and huge savings.

13 chesapeake Bay Week Film

Festival: “racing rivals: log canoes of chesapeake Bay”

2 p.m. in the Van Lennep Auditorium at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. Discover the beauty and elegance of Maryland’s iconic sailing log canoes in MPT’s newest documentary and the cornerstone film for the 20th anniversary of Chesapeake Bay Week. Tickets: $10.

13 introduction to Sea Kayaking

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cult Classic Brewery on Kent Island, MD. Join the all-volunteer Chesapeake Paddlers Association for a day of exploring sea kayaking in the classroom with local paddlers and instructors, no boat needed! Cost: $40, lunch, snacks, and beverages provided.

13 York county history Day

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Historic Main Street in Yorktown, VA. Free! This event highlights the American Revolution and Civil War. Enjoy music, military demonstrations, crafts, food, and much more around Historic Yorktown. The free, accessible Yorktown Trolley will be running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

15 capca monthly meeting

6:45 to 8:30 p.m. Speaker: Captain Rob Chischester. Topic: Experiences Aboard a Lightship. Free, online via Zoom. Learn more at capca.net

April

15-19

Fawcett manufacturers’ rep

Week Meet manufacturers’ reps from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fawcett Boat Supplies in Annapolis. April 15: C. Sherman Johnson, Vetus/Maxwell, Wichard, and Edson. April 16: ACR Electronics, Mustang Survival, Fortress, and Sika. April 17: Smoove. April 18: Plastimo, Bainbridge, and Ronstan. April 19: Pettit, Dometic, and Starbrite.

18 chesapeake Bay Week Film Festival: “Water’s edge: Black Watermen of the chesapeake”

5:30 p.m. in the Van Lennep Auditorium at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. The film highlights unsung Marylanders who revolutionized an industry, dreamed beyond their circumstance, and are still keeping this tradition alive today. Tickets: $10.

20 east of maui Spring Waterman’s Swap and Suptastic Sale

Hosted by East of Maui Board Shop (2444 Solomons Island Road in Annapolis) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring in used standup, surf, kitesurf, foil, and windsurf gear in to buy and sell to others. Free to the public.

20 exchange: a regional planning Forum

8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland SMART Building (#3): 44219 Airport Rd. California, MD. Exchange ideas, explore opportunities, engage in planning for Southern Maryland’s Future.

20 Sail and Sell: a maritime market collective Day

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Spring Sale at Bacon Sails and Marine Supplies; East of Maui Spring Waterman’s Swap & Suptastic Sale; Fawcett Boat Supply’s Tent Sale and Manufacturer’s Rep Week; Chesapeake Light Craft Maritime Flea Market; and Forward Brewing food specials and microbrew beer (11 a.m. to 10 p.m.).

20-21

eastern Shore Sea Glass and coastal arts Festival

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD.

26-28 annapolis Spring Sailboat Show

The Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show returns to the historic seaport town of Annapolis every April to showcase new and brokerage boats including catamarans, monohulls, family cruisers, daysailers, and inflatables. At City Dock, Annapolis, MD. Tickets: annapolisboatshows.com

27 Bonfire and Sailing trivia night

Set sail for an evening of beach fun and brain-teasing trivia at Annapolis Sailing School for a S’mores Bonfire and Sailing Trivia Night! 6 p.m. bonfire, followed by trivia at 7 p.m. The event is free but requires an RSVP at rb.gy/7i2y4t

27-28

maryland Boating Safety course

8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Sunday at Parish Creek Landing Marina (4819 Woods Wharf Rd.) in Shady Side, MD. $20 per person (free attendance for any family members). Presented by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary; students will be awarded the Maryland Boating Safety Certificate. RSVP by 04/19:  kacie@parishcreeklanding.com or (410) 867-4800.

27-28 pirates invade Yorktown Weekend

Take a step back into the Golden Age of piracy as Riverwalk Landing and the Watermen’s Museum are invaded by seafaring marauders! 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Yorktown, VA. Free. Enjoy live blacksmith demonstrations, explore a pirate encampment, sing along to sea shanties, take part in a town-wide treasure hunt, and witness exciting cannon demonstrations. The free, accessible Yorktown Trolley will be running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

28 annapolis Frogman Swim

At the Bay Ridge Community Pool Association beach (2 Herndon Avenue, Annapolis). Fundraising swim to benefit the Navy SEAL Foundation. This event is more than just a swim. It is not a race. Each swimmer is requested to raise around $2000 in donations. There will be 50 swimmers each with their own kayak escort.

28 SpinSheet annapolis crew party

4 to 6 p.m. (following the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show) at Eastport Yacht Club (317 First Street, Annapolis, MD 21403). Outdoor party held rain or shine, featuring live music by The Geckos. Free and open to all sailing experience levels. Register by signing up for the SpinSheet Crew Finder or by updating your existing profile.

April Racing

3 BBSa little creek Sa Wednesday night racing

Begins Wednesdays out of Broad Bay/Little Creek Sailing Association, Norfolk, VA.

3 hYc Wednesday night racing Begins Wednesdays out of Hampton Yacht Club, Hampton, VA.

4 BBSa Willoughby thursday night racing Begins Broad Bay/Willoughby Racers, Norfolk, VA.

6 hYc april Fools one Design regatta

Hosted by Hampton YC, Hampton, VA.

8 opcYc Yankee Station Series 2

Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.

14 ccVr Spring Series 1

Hosted by CCV Racing, Southern Chesapeake, Hosted by CCV Racing, Southern Chesapeake.

14 SmSa Spring invitational

Hosted by Southern Maryland Sailing Association, Solomons, MD.

Hosted

aYc Wednesday night racing Series 1

Hosted by Annapolis

27

May

4 Blues, Brews, & BBQ Festival

12 to 6 p.m. at Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown, VA. Sample more than 30 different craft beers, dig into amazing BBQ, and listen as some of the best blues musicians in Hampton Roads and beyond take the stage. Tickets $35 in advance, $40 after 4/15 and at the door.

4-18 Boater certification course

Wilmington Sail and Power Squadron will offer three sessions of the Boater Certification course in cooperation with the New Castle Sailing Club. Sessions two and three will be on May 11 and 18; 1 to 4 pm. Registration and $25 fee collected at first session. Reserve a space or for more information call Mark Atkinson at (302) 722-5201 or matkinsonseo@gmail.com. Classes will be held at the New Castle Sailing Club Classroom, 614 South Street, New Castle, DE.

7-11 event management Bootcamp

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Oakcliff Sailing Center in Oyster Bay, NY. Explore the ins, outs, and best practices of race administration in this intensive jampacked five-day mini bootcamp.

7-11 match 40 tune Up Week

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Oakcliff Sailing Center in Oyster Bay, NY. Designed for teams and individuals to spring ahead of the competition and launch into the match racing circuit. This program is packed with intense daily coaching culminating with a Grade 4 match race.

11 Yorktown market Days

8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown, VA. Vintage market and car show on Main Street.

12 mother’s Day

Take your mom out on a boat to celebrate!

May Racing

through May 29

aYc Wednesday night racing Series 1

Hosted by Annapolis Yacht Club.

3-5 helly hansen Sailing World regatta Series annapolis

Presented by Helly Hansen and Sailing World, Hosted at Annapolis Yacht Club.

11 aYc Spring race to oxford

Hosted by Annapolis Yacht Club, Annapolis, MD.

17 - Aug 23

eYc Beer can races

Hosted by Eastport Yacht Club, Annapolis, MD.

18 eWe Spirit cup

Hosted by Sailing Club of the Chesapeake and the EWE Spirit Foundation.

18 hampton roads hospice regatta and cape henry race

Hosted by Hampton Yacht Club and Broad Bay Sailing Association, Southern Chesapeake.

18-19 FBYc offshore Spring open

Hosted by Fishing Bay Yacht Club, Deltaville, VA.

19 opcYc Yankee Station Series 1

Hosted by Old Point Comfort Yacht Club, Hampton, VA.

24-25 74th Down the Bay race

For the Virginia Cruising Cup. A 120 nautical mile distance race from Annapolis, MD, to Hampton, VA. Hampton YC and Storm Trysail Club-Chesapeake Station.

25 annapolis to miles river race

Hosted by the Miles River Yacht Club, St. Michaels, MD, with assistance from Eastport Yacht Club.

31 - Jun 2

Southern Bay race Week

Hampton Yacht Club, Cruising Club of Virginia, and Old Point Comfort Yacht Club.

Where Are They Now?

As told to Beth Crabtree

Since 2014 we’ve been chronicling the stories of sailors who took up the sport (or got into it in a big way) as adults. We’re going to keep bringing you such stories, but we also want to bring you updates on some of the sailors we interviewed years ago. We start this month with Shawn Owen and Jeff and Cameron Bach. If you’ve shared your story on this page and would like to update us on your sailing adventures, email beth@spinsheet.com.

Sometimes great opportunities shower down upon us all at once, and it seems it’s been that way for Annapolis sailor and musician Shawn Owen.

We first interviewed Shawn back in February 2018, when he was in the process of applying for his captain’s license. Today Capt. Shawn is the owner of Chronic Sailing based out of Port Annapolis. Chronic Sailing offers ASA 101-106 and catamaran certification, bareboat and captained charters, private instruction, delivery service, and guidance to new boat owners who need to get up to speed on their vessels. The Chronic Sailing fleet currently consists of four catamarans and one monohull, but Shawn plans to add three more boats this season.

This summer Shawn will participate in the Clipper Round the World Race. He had signed up before the Covid pandemic, but of course his trip was postponed. In June he’ll finally get his chance. Clipper Race

participants sail aboard 70-foot ocean racing yachts for a circumnavigation or just one of its eight legs. Shawn will be on the final leg, sailing from Washington, DC, to England.

Still making music with the Shawn Owen Band, Shawn plays about three to four gigs a week in the DC-Annapolis-Baltimore area. And if music, a trans-Atlantic sail, and owning a business weren’t enough, Shawn and his wife are proud parents of a one and half year-old daughter.

Jeff and Cameron Bach: Cruising the Bahamas

We introduced you to Jeff and Cameron Bach in April of 2020. Regular readers may remember that the couple was inspired by cruising videos on YouTube. Back then we referred to such content creators as vloggers. At the time the Bachs had connected with a few of the vloggers and even enjoyed some sailing adventures with them.

Flash forward to 2024. Jeff and Cameron’s sailboat, the 36-foot Catalina MKll Westwind (which they purchased in 2017) is slipped in the Bahamas, and the couple is splitting their time between Annapolis and exploring the islands and beautiful blue water.

Jeff explains, “In November we took Westwind as far south as Fort Lauderdale, came back to Annapolis for a week or so at Christmastime and returned to the boat.

Shawn Owen: opened a sailing business; planning a trans-Atlantic passage.

On New Year’s Eve our friends Matt and Jessica from MJ Sailing hopped aboard. The next day we slipped the lines bound for the Berry Islands.

“Now we keep Westwind at a marina in a hurricane hole in Palm Key, not far from Nassau, and we travel back and forth from Annapolis. Cameron still has her pottery studio in Eastport, and I’m working full time, but Starlink and direct flights from Nassau to the BWI airport make it all possible.”

FAnd the vloggers they befriended? If you’ve recently attended the Annapolis Sailboat Show you’ve probably seen the wildly popular Cruisers Creating Content Booth—it’s the brainchild of Jeff, who realized early on how much cruising content creators inspire and entertain others. Cruisers Creating Content brings together the creative genius behind video channels, social media posts, and podcasts that celebrate and chronicle the cruising lifestyle. During

the sailboat show the line to meet these very popular stars often wraps up one aisle and down another.

What’s next? Jeff says, “We’ve always wanted to explore this part of the world. It’s absolutely beautiful here, and we have friends on boats in the area that we sometimes run into, which is great fun. At some point in the future, we hope to sail Westwind to the BVI. Eventually we’ll bring her back to the Chesapeake; she belongs there.”

Meet the Sailors of Start Sailing Now

or 10 years on this Start Sailing Now page we have been celebrating sailors who took up the sport (or got serious about it) as adults. Now, we want to gather as many Start Sailing Now “Alumni” as we can for a fun meet-up. Grab a friend who’s interested in learning to sail and join us to celebrate your successes, share stories, encourage others, and chat about all things sailing.

We will host a Start Sailing Now Alumni Meet-up (coffee and donuts will be served) on Sunday, April 28 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show. Start Sailing Now Alumni will receive an invitation by email. Those who respond that they will attend will receive free entry to the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show for all three days and a complimentary ticket for a friend to come on Sunday. If you are an alum who has not received a Save the Date email, please email beth@spinsheet.com or call (410) 216-9309, so we can update your contact information.

Boat show attendees are invited to meet the alumni when the show opens to the public at 10 a.m. Finally, don’t miss SpinSheet’s Annapolis Crew Party later that day at Eastport Yacht Club at 4 p.m. It’s free and all are welcome.

Find a Sailing School

New sailors or those returning to sailing may want to seek instruction or coaching at a sailing school or club.

Many such organizations exist on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. They offer certifications for beginners, returning sailors hoping to brush up on seamanship skills, cruisers seeking bareboat chartering or navigation experience, and racers wanting to hone their skills. The following is a sampling of schools and clubs that offer sailing instruction on the Chesapeake. For a more complete list of schools offering certifications outside this region, visit US Sailing or American Sailing.

Chesapeake Bay Sailing Schools

• Annapolis Sailing School annapolissailing.com

• Annapolis Naval Sailing Association ansa.org

• Blue Water Sailing School bwss.com

• Captain In You Sailing Schools, Inc. captaininyou.com

• DC Sail dcsail.org

• J/World Annapolis jworldannapolis.com

• SailTime sailtime.com/annapolis

• Sail Solomons sailsi.com

• West River Sailing Club learn2sailwrsc.com

# Photo courtesy of J/World Annapolis

Celebrating Underwater Grasses

By Thomas Guay

Now that we’ve celebrated the spring equinox and burned our socks (you did, didn’t you?), April is the time when the gods tease sailors with warm breezes, tempting us to venture out over the still-cold waters of the Chesapeake.

But those cold waters are far from dormant, just the opposite. Poseidon’s wearing his farming hat and he’s very, very busy!

The mid-Chesapeake Bay region is teeming with an underwater grass called horned pondweed. (In saltier, southern waters, eel grasses should be exploding, too). You can find horned pondweed in deep and shallow waters of our creeks and rivers. It is far more abundant now than summertime grasses (redhead, widgeon, sago and others) will be when they foul a prop and cause some skippers to disparage these valuable grasses as seaweed.

There are plenty of reasons to celebrate the arrival of horned pondweed. For starters, its arrival coincides with the return of the iconic osprey, spring flowers, and Wednesday Night Races.

Why get excited about underwater grasses? Lots of reasons, and they all lead to a healthier Chesapeake Bay and cleaner, clearer water for our sailing adventures. Underwater grasses play a crucial role in restoring our waterways. They’re so important that the scientists call them a keystone species because grasses:

• Provide food for migratory waterfowl, ducks, geese, otters, muskrats;

• Offer habitat to shelter young crabs, forage fish, rockfish, perch, and other aquatic critters to protect them from larger predators;

• Clean the water by capturing and filtering sediment;

• Add oxygen to the water to protect nearby oyster reefs from dead zone incursions;

• Sequester carbon to help combat climate change;

• And protect shorelines from erosion by absorbing the wave energy caused by storms and powerboat wakes.

I’m aware of the proliferation of horned pondweed in spring thanks to my day job managing the water-quality monitoring program for the Severn River Association. Our teams of volunteers shove off every April 1, and we’re out there three to five days a week. And, yes, it is cold out there, downright frigid at times, so we’re often in parkas, hats, hoods, and watermen’s gloves.

It’s the cold that led to our discovery of the wide-

spread abundance of horned pondweed because we have to be out there when we’d rather not be, and we’re out on the water, a lot. But the benefit is that we have many opportunities to observe what’s going on. Horned pondweed is easy to spot in the shallows.

It’s called horned pondweed because its seeds form a two-pronged horn pattern.

#

Anna Grace inspects horned pondweed in Cove of Cork off the Severn River. Photos by Tom Guay

Discover it all at Herringtonharbour.com

In deepwater, too!

We’ve discovered freshly blooming horned pondweed in six to seven meters of depth! Even at that depth, thanks to the cold water that keeps algae dormant, enough sunlight filters to the bottom to fuel the grasses.

While using our downscan sonar inside the Cove of Cork on the Severn River, the fish finder screen was suddenly full of wavy shadows of tall, thick strands of horned pondweed— and this was at a depth of six meters.

You can see that these strands don’t reach the surface, so a casual observer would not notice them. But up with the anchor comes a thick patch of horned pondweed. There won’t be any grass here once pondweed completes

its lifecycle and floats away. It’s too deep and murky for summer grasses to take hold.

Sailors can enjoy horned pondweed best in their home ports and creeks when they join their salty crews at private and community piers. Before it floats away, look for horned pondweed along sunny shallow shorelines. It’s not so prevalent inside city marinas and harbors. If you do find pondweed in an urban setting, let me know!

When you do spot the grasses, take a moment to appreciate them. Breathe and welcome them back to your creek. They are laying the groundwork for a cleaner Chesapeake Bay.

Once horned pondweed’s growing season ends in early

About the Author: Annapolis sailor Tom Guay runs the water-quality monitoring, floating classroom, and Operation Osprey programs for the Severn River Association. When not on the water, Tom is a musicianer with The Eastport Oyster Boys and author of the historical novel, “Chesapeake Bound,” due out with McBooks Press soon.

June, they’ll be replaced in some shallow areas by the summertime grasses, which is a different tale to tell. Summer grasses are what most of us encounter. You may think they’re icky when you swim through them or find them really annoying when you have to pull them out of your prop, but don’t curse them. They are crucial, too.

The habitat they create harbors young crabs and fish that will one day grace your dinner table, and they’re helping revitalize your waterway.

#

# SRA volunteers Judy and Rusty spot horned pondweed.

# Sago pondweed, a summer SAV, off Sherwood Pier.

A thick patch of horned pondweed from Cove of Cork.

After years of mastering different artist talents, Lisa Krentel’s fusion of traditional mediums brings a unique and lasting impression to familiar Chesapeake scenes.

What about life near the Chesapeake Bay enables you to see what others may not?

For years, the Chesapeake inspired me because it was such an influential part of my sailing life growing up. My family spent every weekend, every holiday, on a boat from April through Thanksgiving, and every winter stripping, sanding, and varnishing blocks and spars in the basement. These memories have instilled in me a desire to capture its beauty and majesty in my art.

Your series of skipjacks brings the working boat back to life. How did that come about?

Growing up, my family would always attend the Chesapeake Appreciation Day event at Sandy Point Light, a yearly skipjack race hosting skipjacks as far

Interview by Gwen Mayes

as you could see. Seems like there were hundreds on the water when I was a little girl. For a budding photographer in the late 1960s, I would shoot them in black and white and develop the prints myself. Years later I came across the negatives, converted them to a digital format, and touched up the black and white ones with acrylic paints. The result is my tinted vintage skipjack series. Their importance to the Bay has never faded for me, and this is one way to keep their story alive.

How does using mixed mediums add to your style?

I’ve had a love affair with color, light, and water for as long as I can remember. As a painter and a photographer, I weave my materials to create visuals that surprise and delight. For example, in the “Blue Crab Series” each tile starts with a drawing I make of a blue crab which is digitally combined with a photograph of water, printed on canvas, stretched, and coated with a gloss polymer. The result is a surprisingly fun illusion of crabs underwater.

How has your practice changed over time?

I’ve always been drawn to visual imagery, but after receiving my first SLR camera, photography became my love. I took jobs from the dugout at Dodger Stadium to Tahiti and New Zealand. With the shift from the darkroom to the computer, I found my interest waned and started painting. I have two recent paintings, “Such a Pleasant Run” and “Lady Chesapeake,” that have everything to do with skipjacks and oystering on the Chesapeake. Lately, because my partner and I love traveling the country in a camper van that has limited space for art supplies, drawing on the iPad has become a new medium for me. The new show at Main Street Gallery in Cambridge, MD, showcases that effort.

What memorable responses have you had to your work?

The first time I won an art award made a huge impression on me. Prior to entering the Sedona Art Center’s Member’s Show with the very first painting of my Water Series and winning an Emerging Artist award, I never thought of myself as an official “artist.” Winning gave me the impetus to complete other paintings in that underwater series and keep going.

What’s next?

Although I did not make my living in fine arts, I was always involved in the visual arts and hoped to continue. It’s a fascinating journey to take years of experience and blend them together with new formats, mediums, and techniques. There’s always another way to convey a visual scene. Having lived in so many places during my life I have now retired to Cambridge, MD, with my partner Paul and our cat Flash. We have a land-cruising camper van that we use to explore all corners of the country.

How does someone learn more about your work?

I am a member of Main Street Gallery at 518 Poplar Street in Cambridge, the only cooperative member artist gallery on the Eastern Shore. Every two months a new show of member work is hung, and (you may find) my work there with that of other local artists. Check us out on Facebook or mainstgallery.net.

About the interviewer: Gwen Mayes is a writer, life coach, workshop host, and docent for the Annapolis Maritime Museum and Park. Find more about her work at anchortoself.com.

# Multimedia images by Lisa Krentel

A Long Voyage on a Home-Built Boat

A veteran ocean cruiser sets sail on a solo Atlantic crossing in a garage-built 21-foot sailboat.

By Craig Ligibel

The last time Canadian Alan Mulholland attempted a longdistance voyage, he ended up upside down in his 26-foot Contessa in howling seas 600 miles from land.

“I was below. All of a sudden, a rogue wave picked up the boat and slammed it down. Me with it! We rolled over. Got her back upright. It wasn’t until a day later that I discovered I had cracked two ribs. The boat needed some repairs, so I headed to the Caribbean. This was just when Covid was running rampant. I spent three months refitting and contemplating my next move.”

The sailor eventually made a non-stop voyage of 1600 miles from the Caribbean to his home port of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (PEI).

“I learned a lot from that experience,” the 59-year-old native of PEI said. “I spent a lot of time as I returned to port figuring out what had gone wrong and what I could do better the next time.”

The “next time” has come as Mulholland is just a few months away from the second leg of his attempt to sail a small boat he designed and built himself across the open ocean.

After a 100-day voyage from Charlottetown, PEI, last fall, the sailor battled wind and weather for the first two months of his trip as he tried to outrun a series of Atlantic lows that brought unprecedented wind and rain to the East Coast.

Presently Mulholland’s new home-built craft, Wave Rover 650, is in a boatyard in Maryland awaiting a weather window for the crossing from the East Coast to the Azores. Mullholland will sail down the Bay to Norfolk in April.

“My plan is to head across at the midend of May,” Mullholland told SpinSheet. “After the Azores, I’ll set sail for Ireland in late July. I’ll cruise around Ireland until the fall. I am sure Wave Rover is up to the challenge. I know I am.”

A bucket-list trip

Mulholland’s dream of a long-distance voyage in a boat of his own design and construction is not a unique one. Many a sailor has dreamed of fulfilling a bucket-list trip like his.

But few could imagine going across the Atlantic in a tiny 21-foot-long, 3000-pound, twin-keel, home-built sailboat powered by a 230-square foot junk-rig sail with a whopping 6-hp auxiliary motor for back-up propulsion.

“Heck,” the self-effacing carpenterturned-boatbuilder said, “the boat is solid, but we shaved costs wherever we could… like building the mast out of regular lumberyard two-by-fours.”

Such are the circumstances of Mulholland as he attempts to complete the voyage he first began three years ago, hopefully being able to turn his first nightmarish voyage into the fulfillment of a dream of a lifetime.

Mulholland is no stranger to longdistance cruising. In 1995, he sailed a 26-foot steel-hulled sloop he built

himself from the Canadian West Coast to Brisbane, Australia. The voyage took four months with long distance hops to Hawaii, the Gilbert Islands, and finally to Brisbane.

“Lots of open ocean. Lots of time to think about life,” he said.

Even though the trip is touted as a “solo” voyage, thanks to a robust YouTube audience of more than 40,000 followers, Mulholland will hardly be alone. He plans to upload a number of videos chronicling his voyage.

Mulholland has already produced more than 100 episodes for the social network channel detailing the design and build of his unique craft.

“The Wave Rover 650 is a fast, safe, self-righting, easy-to-build, easy-to-sail boat that went from concept to reality over a period of 24 months,” he says.

A partner in design

Mulholland hooked up via email and countless phone calls with Baltimore-based naval architect Andy Dize, recently retired from the Coast Guard, who has spent a

# Wave Rover under sail.

Photo by Alan Mulholland

lifetime on the water, sailing, designing, and building pleasure and commercial vessels of all shapes and sizes.

Dize, a graduate of New York Maritime College, has been a naval architect for 45 years. He’s raced sailboats around the buoys and offshore for 55 years, currently racing a Soling out of Severn Sailing Association. Some of his more notable designs include the twomasted gaff-rigged schooner Liberté currently sailing out of Annapolis and the Georgetown Canal Boat based in Washington, DC.

“Mulholland got in touch with me via a friend,” Dize says. “He explained his concept and his dream. We outlined the parameters of the boat, and we got to work collaborating on a boat that would fulfill his desires within the context of a structurally sound boat capable of going anywhere the wind blows.”

The first time the two met was when Mulholland sailed into Baltimore in late October.

“We had a great longdistance relationship. We worked the design out over the phone and with lots of emails,” Dize says. “When I first saw her approaching my dock, I had to pinch myself. She looked great. It’s fun to see your ideas come to life.”

Mulholland’s solo adventure was originally intended to be a multi-year, multi-stop solo circumnavigation.

plywood coated with fiberglass cloth and resin. The two 600-pound twin keels are set at a 15-degree angle, which makes the keel perpendicular to the water when the boat is heeled over at its ideal 10-15 percent; this increases speed with minimum drag. There is plenty of floatation fore and aft. Two quarter berths and sufficient storage under the cabin sole complete the package.

Wave Rover 650 in about seven to eight months. He has about $10,000 invested in materials. He was fortunate to receive funding from 120 contributors whose names are on the Benefactors Bulkhead in the boat. Mulholland’s wife of 25 years, Glenda, aka Mrs. Rover to the You Tube community, has painstakingly inscribed the names of all contributors on the forward bulkhead. Some portion of the materials was donated to keep expenses down.

Mulholland and Dize are currently selling study plans and construction plans for the Wave Rover 650. At press time the duo has sold about two dozen construction plans to potential boat builders all over the world. Study plans cost $40. A full set of construction plans costs $450.

For Mulholland, the most important part of his upcoming sailing adventure is not the journey itself, what he may accomplish at sea, or even if he accomplishes his goal. Instead, it’s about reaching his potential and pushing himself.

“Reality sunk in as I was finishing the build. I really don’t have anything to prove. One thousand miles offshore is the same as 10,000 miles offshore. Besides, the thought of 50-60 days at sea was a little too daunting given my circumstances of a wife who I would have missed very much.”

The new pocket cruiser

The Wave Rover 650 is a hard-chined Sharpie-design built on a wooden frame overlaid with nine-millimeter marine

Mulholland has installed a 300-watt solar charging system which keeps his 200-amp-hour LiFePro batteries charged. Wave Rover II has a water capacity of 170 liters.

Mulholland figures someone with moderate carpentry skills could build the

“For me, to do the same job day after day would not be going anywhere near what I consider my potential,” he said. “Potential comes out of challenges that are just out of reach, and you can almost touch them. That’s what the sailing is for me, that’s what the building of the boat has been.”

The Wave Rover 650 was purpose-built to carry a solo sailor across the Atlantic and back.

“The boat had to be strong enough to cross the Atlantic. She needed to have sufficient capacity to carry 60 days of supplies yet be light enough to be propelled by a three to four horsepower motor. Most of all, she had to be comfortable at sea with a rig that was easy to control and repair.”

# Photo courtesy of Alan Mulholland

# Andy Dize, naval architect, and Alan Mulholland. Photo by Craig Ligibel

Wave Rover 650 was also built to optimize the use of a Mulholland-designed self-steering rig.

Mulholland and Dize selected the “junk” rig because it was simple and easy to build and reef. In tests, the rig performs well off the wind, although Mulholland and Dize figure she can go 45-55 degrees to windward which, they say, is a reasonable amount for a small, light boat.

The mast, which projects 21 feet from the deck, is unstayed, “but strong enough to withstand excessive loads.’” Her 230-square-foot junk rig can be depowered in seconds all from the safety of the cockpit. When reefed, the center of effort of the sail stays the same as panels of sail are folded on top of one another.

Just like the boat itself, communications and navigation are simple: Mulholland relies on two “cheap” tablets and a newish cell phone to run his Navionics navigation program. He sends and receives text messages underway via a Garmin In-Reach communicator; he keeps aware of other boats with an active AIS system “that drives me crazy when we are in a busy shipping lane.”

The little junk rig can skip along over the waves at around five to six knots “given

decent wind” he says. Auxiliary power is provided by a six-horsepower Tohatsu outboard.

The advantage of twin bilge keels, Mulholland says, is that they reduce roll and serve as a handy cradle if the boat is beached for repairs.

Forging your own adventure

While the first couple of months at sea provided a test of men and machine, Mulholland anticipates the rest of his voyage to be “lots of fun with new experiences around every wave.”

Mulholland says, “A funny thing happened to me as I worked my way down the East Coast. I always thought of myself as a long-distance cruiser, but I have really enjoyed taking my time coming down here. I look forward to gunkholing around the Chesapeake en route to Ireland. This little boat is ideal for short jaunts in skinny water as well as handling big waves out on the ocean.”

The motto of Wave Rover II is: “Forge your own adventure.”

“I’m not into records,” says Mulholland. “I want to enjoy the experience, share my adventures with my YouTubers, meet some interesting people, and live to tell about it.”

Follow Mulholland by searching for Wave Rover on YouTube. Plans can be purchased at: ETSY under Wave Rover 650. Stay tuned.

RaCinG Results

Explore the Bay with Argo

Download the FREE Argo Boating app and connect with other boaters!

CHARTS

Upg RADE to pRE mi U m t o DAy!

Get all FREE features, plus Argo Web App, 7-day wind/weather/tides, offline charts, depth shading, import/export GPX, log reports & more!

Virginia’s Northern Neck Is for Lovers

By Craig Ligibel

Fifty years ago, the state of Virginia introduced what is considered today one of the best tourism campaigns ever created: “Virginia is for lovers.”

After making numerous trips to Virginia’s Northern Neck, both by boat and land yacht, I can attest to the fact that the slogan has stood the test of time.

Fall in love with the location. Originally inhabited by eight Virginia Indigenous tribes who established villages along its shores, Virginia’s Northern Neck is one of the most historic regions in Virginia. In 1608, our first tourist, Captain John Smith, referred to it “as a place heaven and earth never agreed better to frame man’s habitation.”

Nestled between the Potomac and the Rappahannock Rivers and spilling into the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia’s Northern Neck enjoys more than 1000 miles of shoreline. With so much territory to cover, this article

will concentrate on that portion of the Neck easily accessed from the waters of the Rappahannock. For more information on Potomac River water approaches, go to: northernneck.org/the-northern-neck-2

Fall in love with peaceful anchorages and first-class marinas.

More than two dozen creeks feed into the Rapp. Many creeks boast outstanding anchorages with plenty of holding ground and good protection from the wind.

One of my favorite creeks is Carter’s Creek, located one mile above the Rappahannock River Bridge. It flows peacefully nine nautical miles into the town of Irvington. Yopps Cove immediately on your right as you enter the creek welcomes the cruising sailor with the feel of nature all around, yet only a few minutes’ dinghy ride from some truly amazing amenities in the picturesque town of Irvington.

The venerable Tides Inn rises majestically from the banks of Carter’s Creek. Located 11 nautical miles from Windmill Point, the Tide’s floating dock marina accommodates up to 20 vessels ranging from small weekend cruisers to 150-foot yachts. Rates range from $3.75-5 per foot. Adjacent to the main marina, an allnew day-use dock accommodates up to 12 additional vessels. The marina features electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and pump-out services.

A short stroll up the street sits the majestic Hope and Glory Inn, one of the most honored small inns in America. More about the Hope and Glory later! Also located on Carter’s Creek are Rappahannock Yachts and the Rappahannock River Yacht Club.

Back on the Rapp, head up the Corrotoman River and make your way to Yankee Point Marina. There you’ll find a 100-slip marina owned since May of

# Oyster harvest on the Rapp. Photo courtesy of the Rappahannock Oyster Co.

See the Bay presented by

NEW Argo Web/Desktop App Just Released!

2022 by Kara and Todd Patterson, who have spent the last two years upgrading and improving the marina in many ways. Yankee Point offers transients all the amenities cruisers might want, including dockside dining and a swimming pool with plenty of room to hang out.

For an insider’s take on all the Rapp has to offer, see the sidebar that accompanies this article penned by Chris Johnson, former Regent Point Yacht Club cruising commodore.

Fall in love with local yacht clubs and sailing associations. Throughout the summer, a number of local yacht clubs and sailing associations offer a season-long menu of regattas and cookouts that can be accessed by visiting sailors.

Not to be missed is the Hospice Turkey Shoot Regatta for classic sailboats, one of the largest regattas on the Chesapeake, held at the end of the season to benefit Riverside Hospices and staged jointly by the City of Irvington, Rappahannock River Yacht Club, Yankee Point Yacht Club, and the Northern Neck Sailing Association. This year’s regatta unfolds October 4.

Fall in love with oysters and local cuisine.

Local oysters and mouth-watering cuisine are hallmarks of Northern Neck exploration. A not-to-be-missed stop on the Deltaville side of the river is the Rappahannock Oyster Company’s trendy Merroir tasting room, located in Topping just down Locklies Creek. The approach to the restaurant is straightforward. A set of floating docks makes sail-up dining an experience well worth the voyage.

Irvington innkeeper Dudley Patterson is the self-proclaimed “father of the Virginia oyster trail,” a carefully curated set of restaurants and seafood establishments where one can revel in all things oyster. “From a marketing standpoint, Maryland owns the blue crab,” says Patterson. “I wanted Virginia to own the oyster. It’s a sexier food with a rich history going back thousands of years. How many poems have been written about the

crab? Come on. Oysters are where it’s at.” Several points along the Oyster Trail can be accessed via water.

Patterson’s Dog and Oyster MicroVineyard and Oyster Bar, situated on the grounds of the Hope and Glory Inn, serves a beautiful spread of fresh and

baked oysters accompanied by awardwinning wines from the adjacent vineyard. A new addition to the menu is a dessert oyster… a buttery bivalve topped with a lime sorbet and a sprig of mint. “It’s a flavor explosion in your mouth,” guarantees Patterson.

More To Love About the Rapp

Insider tips from Chris Johnson, former cruising commodore of the Regent Point Yacht Club:

< On the south side of the Rappahannock River, east of Whitestone Bridge, is Regent Point Marina, an accommodating “destination” marina. It has a park-like setting, is very well kept, and the slip holders have a very nice, active community of well-travelled sailors. If you’re looking for a nice quiet place to rest for a few days, this is the place. There is no anchorage in Locklies Creek, but across from Regent Point Marina there’s Merroir Tasting Room with a dock for customers.

< As for Deltaville, Broad Creek: is a very busy area with many marinas and docks close to the town of Deltaville. Note: it’s very easy to run aground and there is no anchorage.

< On the south side of Deltaville is Jackson Creek, where there are anchorages and the City Dock. There’s also Fishing Bay for good anchorages. Fishing Bay Marina has temporary dockage and a nice swimming pool. There’s also Fishing Bay Yacht Club which I believe has some temporary slips for guests. I’ve docked there for regattas in the past. Mind the shoal that juts out from Fishing Bay. There is a red marker there; watch for it!

< At the mouth of the Rappahannock River, on the north side of Windmill Point you will find Fleet’s Bay. You can get way up in there for a hurricane hole. If you’re heading down the Bay and you run out of daylight and want to pull over for the night, there’s a flashing red that you can go to, and anchor behind it, outside of the channel.

< North of Windmill Point and Fleets Bay is Indian Creek Yacht and Country Club.

< It’s upscale with a good restaurant and golf course. (The marina staff will plug into your shore power connection and test for any polarity faults before they allow you to plug into shore power, as they have a newly rewired dock and are sensitive about what they allow to plug into their system.)

< Farther up Indian Creek, the Chesapeake Boat Basin is very accommodating for cruisers. In the past they have made a vehicle available to drive into Whitestone to dine, shop, and visit the town, which is tourist centered.

Note: Chris tells SpinSheet that he’s had a boat in the waters in and around the Chesapeake most of his 64 years. He is partial to the folks at Regent Point Marina. He cautions boaters to watch the markers like a roadmap when entering and navigating the creeks. “It’s a great river with lots of friendly folks who will welcome you.”

Fall in love with local history.

If you are exploring the area by sailboat or land yacht, be sure to check out the Irvington Steamboat Museum, Morattico Waterfront Museum, and Deltaville Maritime Museum. Be sure to see the replica of John Smith’s shallop Explorer at the Deltaville Maritime Museum as well as take a peek into the fully restored 63-foot-long oyster buyboat, the F.D. Crockett.

Fall in love with nature.

The Rapp’s northern reaches are characterized by sweeping pastoral views bookended by two sets of 100- to 150-foot-tall sandstone cliffs that serve as habitat for the river’s bald eagle population. It is a fisherman’s and paddler’s paradise. In fact, portions of the river are designated a National Wildlife Refuge.

The 50-foot clearance fixed bridge at Route 360 in Tappahannock limits large sailboats cruising above that point. That’s a pity because even though facilities are limited, this part of the river offers gunkholing opportunities galore. Many boaters eager

to explore this stretch of the river explore the Rappahannock River Water Trail by kayak, canoe, or small boat.

Fall in love with luxury.

Dudley and Peggy Patterson’s nationally recognized Hope and Glory Inn and the recently refurbished Tides Inn offer the cruising yachtsman a pampered break from a night on the hook. Both establishments offer haute cuisine, amazing amenities, and welcoming hosts. Splurge on a night or two. Life on the Rapp will never be the same!

Fall in love with your significant other.

I have had the privilege of celebrating significant wedding anniversaries and birthdays in the confines of the Northern Neck. Last year, my wife and I stayed at the Hope and Glory Inn, cruised Carter’s Creek with Dudley, enjoyed a delicious al fresco breakfast on the patio, and drove to the Little Wicamico Oyster Company for a dockside tour of this fourth-generation

oyster farm. After sampling a dozen or so Peach Tree oysters right out of the river, my wife turned to me and said, “Dear, nothing says Happy Birthday like the smell of an oyster processing plant.”

Who knew that the way to a woman’s heart is with a plateful of buttery oysters? The dozen red roses I sent ahead to greet her at the inn didn’t hurt things either! #

# The author and his wife Colleen toast her birthday aboard True Love.

What’s New at Chesapeake Sailing Schools?

Springtime marks “back-to-school time” on the Chesapeake and the beginning of a six-month season of opportunities for adults to learn to sail or hone their sailing skills. Here are three common questions about choosing the right sailing school for you, followed by news from regional schools.

How do I choose between different programs?

We hear this question from new sailors a lot, and there’s no right or wrong answer. We recommend first taking a look at the schools that advertise in SpinSheet. If they are investing their ad dollars in these pages, they support their local sailing magazine and are committed to the Chesapeake sailing community. They want your business!

Next, you need to ask yourself why you want to learn to sail. Is it to experience the wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and waves gently rocking the boat? Or is it because you’re an outdoorsy type who likes water and trying new sports? Have you always dreamed about learning to sail and chartering a sailboat in the islands? Do you have a long-term vision that includes owning a boat?

These are all legitimate reasons to get started. If sailing is an experience you’d like to try, you may do that at any sailing school, big or small, or club or community sailing program. If you find a school that feels right, sign up. If you have big dreams and long-term goals, consider a school that offers American Sailing Association or US Sailing certifications and more advanced programs and a progression of learning opportunities as you advance your skills.

How can I keep practicing my sailing skills after my class? Sailing is an experiential sport, so it’s important to take a lesson, practice what you learned, and do it again. That’s why

#

it’s important to have future access to boats, whether that’s a club, a rental boat option, or a boat to borrow, or even a friend with a boat. Some schools, such as Annapolis Sailing School, J/World Annapolis, or Sail Solomons have a club membership option with boat access.

Others, such as the Annapolis Naval Sailing Association, offer learn-to-sail programs and group or club sails on their boats. SailTime offers sailing classes as well as part-ownership of boats and a welcoming community of sailors. These are all great ways to get on the water without owning your own boat (yet).

What if I’d rather take a brush-up course than a learn-to-sail course? Any good sailing school will talk to you about where you are in your sailing journey and what their recommendations are for starting up again. Most good sailing schools have a private instruction option, so you could spend a day or two with an instructor on their boat (or your own) without starting at ground zero. For more ideas on learning to sail, visit startsailingnow.com.

SailTime Annapolis members Misti and Mike successfully completed their SailTime training last spring. Photo courtesy of SailTme Annapolis/ Facebook

# FJs racing out of DC Sail.

New in 2024! DC Sail’s Thursday Evening Racing

DC Sail will offer additional racing opportunities for its members in the 2024 season. The popular Thursday evening race series will expand from 16 weeks to 20 weeks.

The Adult Racing Series will start up on Thursday, April 18 and will continue through September 12, which is the week of the Cantina Cup Regatta (Saturday, September 14). Registration for the Adult Racing Series will cost $320 for the entire season, with a breakdown price of just $16 per evening. There will be an option to purchase the entire season or exclusively the first or second half of the series for $160 each. Registration will open in early April.

Note that with the racing season starting earlier, there is a chance for colder weather mandating drysuits/wetsuits while on the water. Hopefully the spring will bring reliable warm weather, sunny skies, and solid wind on these April and May weeknights. Find more at dcsail.org/racing.

Not an experienced FJ sailor? DC Sail hosts an Intro to FJs Course once a month in June, July, and August. Find more at dcsail.org/lessons-introtofjs

to make it truly special. The staff invites you to reconnect and share your stories. Whether you were office staff, a dock hand, a sailing instructor, or learned as a student yourself, your stories hold the key to Annapolis Sailing School history.

Hunter Sugg writes, “We’d love to know when you sailed with us, if you made any friends, and if you still sail! If you have a tale to tell, please share your stories on land or sea, photos, and memories by emailing hunter@annapolissailing.com Let’s come together to celebrate 65 years of the Annapolis Sailing School.”

# Annapolis Sailing School celebrates its 65th anniversary this year.

New Instructors, Catamaran, and Courses in Solomons

Sail Solomons recently welcomed three new instructors to their staff: live-aboard cruiser Captains Tom and Beth Ackerman and Captain Mark Gyorgy.

Tom and Beth have been living full time aboard their Irwin 43 Ancora Qui currently in Solomons Island, instructing and captaining with Sail Solomons. Both are USCG captains, and ASA certified instructors. Tom is a lifelong sailor, and Beth started sailing when they met. After a career as physical therapists, they began the cruising lifestyle in the summer of 2022. They plan to spend summers on the Chesapeake and winters someplace warm.

Mark Gyorgy has enjoyed 20 successful years racing locally aboard his Tartan Pride P270 Wicked Good and with the local Buccaneer fleet. Learning to sail in his home state of Maine at the age of nine, Mark was a career Navy helicopter pilot and defense worker. He is also a USCG captain and ASA instructor.

New to the Sail Solomons fleet starting April 1 is the 2023 Seawind 1260, Second Sight. She will be available for instruction, Bareboat Cruising (ASA 104), Catamaran Endorsement (ASA 114), and Advanced Coastal Cruising (ASA 106) as well as being available for charter. Her first event with Sail Solomons will be a passage from Key West to Solomons the first week of April.

New class offerings for Sail Solomons include: Basic Keelboat II (ASA 102), Dinghy Endorsement (ASA 116), and Catamaran Endorsement (ASA 114). Learn more at sailsi.com

Escape the Conference Room and Embark on a Sailing Adventure!

Experience an unforgettable team bonding activity with J/World Annapolis and Chesapeake Boating Club’s Corporate Team Building Program. They provide venue space for different occasions like parties and meetings. Additionally, check out the newly opened retail store Tomorrow’s Dawn for beautifully handcrafted jewelry. Learn more at jworldannapolis.com/team-building.

•

•

# Tom and Beth Ackerman of Sail Solomons.

From 50-Pound Snark to 100-Ton Captain

Humble Beginnings

I’ve been enamored with sailing since the age of eight when my non-sailing dad bought an eleven-foot Snark from Sears Roebuck, made of unsinkable ABS polymer. I enthusiastically learned to sail that 50-pound daggerboard vessel in waters near our Baltimore County home. On vacations to Ocean City, we would carry that Snark on the roof of our Subaru station wagon to sail in Assawoman Bay. We often capsized when my 220-pound dad would tack or gybe and my sister and I couldn’t shift our bodies quickly enough. I discovered years later that the maximum capacity was 310 pounds and our combined weight easily exceeded that!

Three decades later I learned that Snarks were still in production, so I nostalgically bought one for my two young sons to learn to sail near our Hoopers Island vacation home. I kept that boat for 21 years and recently gave it away after a final swan song sail near Oxford. I often advise people not to get snarky or sniff their noses at Snarks. Those boats can create a passion for sailing!

By Captain Cheryl Duvall

keelboat Sailing

As a young adult, I took a smattering of weekend sailing classes but lacked time to sail on a consistent basis until I joined the Downtown Sailing Center (DSC) in Baltimore. I worked nearby at the time, so found it convenient to attend open sails on Wednesday evenings and fun races on Friday evenings. I took Basic Keelboat lessons at the DSC and learned to sail their fleet of J/22s, Impulses, and Sonars. When my oldest son turned eight, he started five consecutive summers of weeklong DSC sailing camps while honing his skills on our Snark. Our family also began attending the Annapolis Sailboat Show where I dreamed that someday I would own and operate a larger sailboat.

#

When my sons entered high school and college, I finally made time to expand my sailing horizons. I took additional keelboat classes at J/World Annapolis and became a skipper at the DSC, which meant I could take out keelboats on my own. I made several lifelong friends at the DSC including my husband, Dudley Whitney, when we were set up on a blind date by two DSC sailors. At the time, Dudley co-chaired the DSC cruising program, overseeing a fleet of eight cruising boats. Six months later, he and I chartered a monohull in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), and I was hooked on larger boat sailing.

Cruising

After our first charter, we began to seriously consider cruising as a lifestyle goal. We joined the Seven Seas Cruising Association (SSCA), attended SSCA gams, took classes at Cruisers University, and chartered a four-cabin catamaran in the BVI for a family adventure. In 2010 we bought our first boat together, a Hunter 420 Passage. We named her Blind Date and were married on her by a DSC captain friend

with family and matchmakers in attendance. We spent weekends that summer sailing to various Chesapeake towns, inviting friends to join us at 20 different ports of call. I also continued my education by taking US Sailing Bareboat and Basic Cruising courses with the Colgate Offshore Sailing School.

After sailing the Chesapeake for four years and redefining our cruising goals, we bought a 1997 Gozzard 44 and renamed her Belle Bateau. Following a refit at her birthplace in Goderich, Canada, we paused our careers for seven months and sailed to Fort Pierce, FL, and back, totaling more than 2000 miles along the Intracoastal Waterway and offshore. That cruising experience opened my eyes to what I did not know and what I wanted to learn. My husband had become a licensed captain before our “sailbatical,” after taking courses at the Annapolis School of Seamanship, and I was motivated to become his equal (or more).

# Capt. Cheryl at the helm of her Gozzard 44 Belle Bateau on a cool day.

The author’s oldest son Philippe sailing their Snark in Tar Bay with two younger kids.

Becoming a Licensed Captain

When we returned in the spring of 2016, I seriously committed to becoming a more knowledgeable sailor and a licensed captain. Lacking confidence with docking our 17-ton boat, I hired Captain Steve Maddox of SeaAffinity to instruct me on Belle Bateau, even though my patient husband and I could have practiced

together. We agreed that Captain Steve would offer valuable insights, and we both trusted him. Thirty instructional hours later, after numerous ins and outs at our Baltimore marina slip in varying winds, I was proficient. Since then, I’ve been at the helm of Belle Bateau for every launching and docking, with Dudley or others handling the lines.

Concurrent with private instruction that summer, I completed several classes at Annapolis School of Seamanship including Marine Diesel Basics Levels I and II, Basic Navigation and Piloting, Navigation II, and Docking and Maneuvering. I also crewed offshore to Block Island with friends on their 44foot Morgan, crossing busy New York shipping lanes at midnight.

One year later, with those experiences and another season of Chesapeake sailing behind me, I stumbled upon the Mariners Learning System (MLS) booth at the fall Annapolis Sailboat Show. Knowing that my learning style prefers slow and steady rather than a fire hose, I used the show discount and invested in MLS. I waited until New Year’s Day to pull the trigger on the online courses and successfully passed the captain’s exam on April 7. I was the only female in a room of 10 wanna-be captains. It took an additional five months to assemble all parts of the USCG license application, including 360 days of documented sea time, 90 of which had to be within the previous three years. By November 2018, I was a USCG Licensed Master, Inland 50 GRT.

Continuing To Build Experience

I continued to build my sailing experience with offshore passages, including sailing from Bermuda to Newport in 2019 with Captain Tania Aebi on a Swan 48. Other bluewater sails included the Exumas and an overnight passage from St. Maarten to the US Virgin Islands. In 2021 after enjoying a few charters in French canals, I took a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training course, passed the CEVNI exam, and obtained my RYA International Certificate (ICC) for Inland Waterways, allowing me to drive pleasure barges up to 65 feet in most of Europe.

One of my most thrilling sailing adventures occurred last year when my husband and I completed 101 days at sea, from Annapolis to Maine and back. Before we departed, I submitted my captain’s license renewal application, including sea time as well as a renewal course certificate. The USCG increased

my tonnage to less than 100 GRT on Inland Waters.

I continue to seek educational opportunities. Two years ago, I joined the Chesapeake Area Professional Captains Association (CAPCA) after reading about their monthly programs in SpinSheet. I was recently elected to a

two-year term as CAPCA program director, responsible for creating monthly programs to benefit CAPCA members as well as the public. No matter one’s prior experience, we can all improve our seamanship and learn from others who spend time on the water.

About the author: Captain Cheryl Duvall is a USCG Licensed Master, Inland 100 GRT and the program director for the Chesapeake Area Professional Captains Association (CAPCA). She lives in Annapolis and recently returned from 101 days at sea, to Maine and back on her Gozzard 44 Belle Bateau: sailingbelle.net

202.547.1250

# Captain Tania Aebi (second from left), the author (third from left), and crew on a 48-foot Swan after their Gulf Stream crossing from Bermuda to Newport, RI, in 2019.

Seadog School

By Craig Moodie

The nautical extended its tentacles into most facets of this dad’s life, including his family.

Iwas to the marina born, thanks to my dad. Now, as a graybeard sailor, I can’t recall the first time I sailed, but I found this passage in a memoir he wrote: “We chartered a dreadful clunker of a ketch from an Eastern Shore farmer… I recall what a perfect playpen the cockpit made for three-year-old Craig. Installed there with his Matchbox toy cars, he happily whiled away the days.”

Dad’s own life on the water began in New England, notably as a teen sailing in a friend’s Duxbury Duck in Duxbury Bay. World War II took him to the Pacific as an ensign in the Navy, where terrors (kamikazes, Okinawa) coexisted with wonders (submarine volcanoes erupting out of the blackness of a night sea).

Saltwater infected his blood. After returning stateside and settling with his growing family in Pennsylvania in the 1950s, he went from sailing with friends in the nearby Chesapeake to chartering sailboats there with the family. These cruises were the foundation of my own enchantment with

sailing, even aboard vessels of dubious seaworthiness such as Stormy Weather, Mais Oui, and Me Mousie Too, three boats from Dad’s early days chartering in the Chesapeake.

Then came longer cruises in Long Island Sound and New England waters. To this day I only need to recall names including Plum Gut, the Race, Hadley Harbor, Cuttyhunk, Block Island, and Nantucket Shoals to conjure a frisson of mystery, danger, and allure.

Chartering lost its luster for Dad even after he ventured to the Caribbean with my mother and friends. Being the skipper of his own sailboat became his Salty Grail, and he and the boat of his dreams found each other at last in the mid-1960s: She was a 35foot Ohlson yawl, a lithe, teak-decked beauty. He christened her Carousel.

Thus began a merry-go-round of years during which he took Carousel from her slip in Annapolis to crisscross the Bay on weekends and longer cruises. My mom, my sister Alison, and I crewed for him (by then my

#

sister Leslie had set her own course to college and beyond) to Wharton Creek, St. Michaels, Gibson Island, Back Creek, Whitehall, Tangier.

Cruising over the years, we experienced every aspect of the sailing life, the marvels and the mishaps: bowling along wing-on-wing, anchoring in a marshgirt cove far from our home port to wait out a nor’wester, running aground in the thin waters of some sinuous creek bristling with crab trap buoys, ghosting by moonlight, shouldering through a chop in a biting fall blow, trolling under sail and crabbing from the deck by flashlight, dragging anchor in a squall, fricasseeing under a molten sun in a stark calm.

We also experienced Dad’s seadog character in all its guises, which ranged from peppery Popeye temper to jaunty Monty Pythonesque silliness.

“You’re light!” was an often-repeated phrase of his that echoes down the decades to me whenever I look up to see that our 12-foot catboat’s sail is luffing.

“Stop jocking around!” was his patented order, usually leveled at Ali and me for engaging in too much horseplay while we were becalmed. (We never fell overboard. Honest.)

# Carousel in lighter air.

He showed restraint, too, and could tolerate even landlubber-like mistakes. Once after coming about in a fresh breeze, I lost my grip on the winch handle and it knifed into the rushing foam beyond the rail. Mortified, I flicked my eyes to Dad at the helm.

“Oops,” he said, flashing a grin as Carousel surged ahead. “Don’t worry about it.” True, he might

The seadog himself no doubt showing his son the ropes.

have been boiling over inside, but he proved to his young seadog-intraining that even those with a fiery temperament can tamp down their ire.

The sheer exuberance of sailing sometimes overcame him, perhaps on a bright warm day with a fair breeze, sails thrumming and Carousel bounding through sunshot seas.

I see him breaking into a spontaneous jig, dancing as if at some marine ceilidh, his calloused bare feet husking against the cockpit planks, his toothy grin and sparkling raptor-sharp hazel eyes infusing me with giddiness. The same exuberance might prompt him to bark at a passing gull as he channeled his inner Labrador, his beloved breed.

Below in the cabin at night, he told stories, or made them up: How did he happen to know the legend of the White Horse of Nantucket galloping over the frozen sea to rescue a maiden on Monomoy when we lay fogbound in Nantucket Harbor?

If he felt frisky (rum can do that to a seadog), he might produce his ukulele and regale us with “My Evaline” and “The Trail of the Lonesome Pine,” which Dad twisted into “The Trail of the Broken Spine.”

He schooled me in the way of the sailor. He knew the moon and stars and constellations (he liked quizzing me on the stars of Orion): I picture us standing on the foredeck as Carousel nods on her anchor and he points to the sky and names the swarms of light. He taught me to splice and use a fid and tie the necessary knots (two half hitches became my favorite) and relish the arcana of the sailing life from gear like a boom vang to a jaunty phrase like the boat bucking along “with a bone in her teeth.”

I grew to find the mustiness of a forepeak jammed with sail bags the headiest perfume in existence. I even became smitten with a particular sail: the mizzen stays’l, perhaps because it evoked the moonrakers and studding sails of the clipper ships or the topsails of the schooners I fantasized sailing on. “Men, Ships, and the Sea” became my bible. His boat and sail handling will forever overshadow mine, but whatever skills I do possess came from him.

The nautical extended its tentacles into most facets of his life, from the half-hulls and ship models and the wallpaper of a yacht’s waterlines in the den to his habit of calling me home to dinner by blowing on a conch shell, the plummy blasts lending my excursions in our dinghy on the muddy creek behind our house a Polynesian air.

His seadog schooling reached across the generations. Our son became an able sailor at an early age, though now his career as a veterinarian and his flyfishing mania claim most of his time.

I never got Dad aboard our catboat Finn, but sometimes I muse about the trip we’d take. He sits with his back against the forward coaming, maybe strumming on his ukulele as we set a

course for Seal Rocks. He wears one of his sailing “lids,” the front brim flipped up Gilligan-style, lit cigarette drooping from his lips. I feel the familiar butterflies that used to swoop through my gut when I had the helm under his gaze but they flutter away once we come about with ease and reach back toward Megansett Harbor.

“Want to take her?” I say.

“I thought you’d never ask.”

He passes me the ukulele and settles in at the tiller. I pluck out “My dog has fleas” on the uke. He eases the sheet, his grin growing. I eyeball the sail, then look at him.

“Dad,” I say. “You’re light.”

The summer following Dad’s death, my stepmother chartered a schooner out of Annapolis. My sisters, cousins, my wife Ellen, our daughter Mary Rose, and our son joined her along with a bagpiper. We sailed out to Whitehall to scatter Dad’s ashes as the piper played “Scotland Forever.” Moments after the last particles of Dad had settled into the wake, another sailboat, a ketch, crossed behind us, showing us her transom.

“Look,” said Leslie, pointing. All (tear-blurred) eyes turned aft. The boat’s name was Papa.

# Carousel was a 35-foot Ohlson yawl, a lithe, teak-decked beauty.

DIY: Better Fruit and Vegetable Storage

By John Herlig

So much of the boating world is rife with lore from which you try to learn what there is to learn. For me this lore lived among the stories told in books about ocean-crossing vessels, books that sat stacked up on my nightstand, dog-eared and well annotated. The best of these had photos. The photos fascinated me like a portal to a magical world I couldn’t rightfully picture. I would pore over the pictures, envisioning myself out at sea in my small boat, battling the elements and sipping coffee as I watched the sunrise. In my head, I could see belowdecks where an oil lamp radiated light onto a teak bulkhead, steam rose form the kettle in the galley, and a bounty of fresh tropical fruits swung to and fro in a small macrame hammock.

I’m not here to burst any bubbles, but I would like to explain why the fruit-hammock part of my vision was slightly faulty. Oh, fruit hammocks do exist. I have one on my boat that an Instagram follower knit for me as a gift. I use it all the time. What I have learned is that these hammocks have a few drawbacks that include motion (ripe fruit’s enemy) and pressure (ripe fruit’s other enemy). There is a great alternative that is not only cheap but also easy as pie to DIY—a perforated plastic bin.

Picture

helps if you’ve gotten a rotting apple or a squished tomato. The last thing you need is for rotting fruit to cascade down like nasty fruit-lava, ruining innocent stores below.

When talking storage, rectangular or square is always better on a boat as it allows you to use all of any given space. On Ave del Mar I found a section of countertop in what I call “my office” that served little purpose. I measured it and went

hunting, eventually finding the perfect containers at a local dollar store. Three of them would fit perfectly side-by-side next to a small rectangular canvas bin. I set them out and marked where the cut-out handles hit the wall and installed two cup hooks per bin, ensuring that the fruits and vegetables couldn’t go anywhere without my permission while I could still easily pop the tubs out for a cleaning.

The hammock I mentioned exists in that same office space in addition to the new bins. I have a small shock cord that I use to clip it to the bulkhead when I am underway, preventing it from hitting the portlight as the boat rolls. Another drawback of hammocks is that the weight of the contents causes the strands of yarn or string to press into the fruit, causing bruising and loss. Because of this, Ave’s holds only the newest, greenest (and hardest) fruits and vegetables, and as they ripen, I move them down into the bins where they are more protected. If you plan to deploy a hammock of any sort, try for one

a plastic tub perhaps the size of a shoebox with a solid bottom and perforated sides. The sides allow air to flow through, helping to keep the contents fresh, and the solid bottom

# The storage baskets aboard Ave del Mar are held in place with hooks.

that has thicker strands that are gentler on its contents.

My friend Carolyn Shearlock of The Boat Galley took a different path towards a similar solution. While she lacked counter space, she had a wet locker that was being loosely used as a pantry, and in that locker she made a series of hanging baskets. She bought Sterilite bins thinking that she could run a section of quarter-inch line through the holes to support them but soon realized that the plastic was pliable enough that any knot would eventually slip through. Additionally, trying to tie four knots per bin at the exact same height would be a challenge to even the most capable of sailors. She solved this problem with cord locks, those springy two-piece plastic gizmos often found on drawstrings of backpacks and laundry bags. These made the spacing of the baskets imminently adjustable. They were wide enough to not pop through the hole when the baskets were fully loaded.

Odds are that if I’ve learned these three tricks, there are probably plenty more than I haven’t ever heard about—but these three work, and they work well. Look at your space and think about how a series of plastic bins might help you lengthen the life of your produce. Then get crafty, get them installed, and get sailing.

And think of me when you munch on that perfect apple offshore.

What I learned:

• Storage hammocks with thicker yarns are easier on fruits and vegetables.

• Plastic bins that have perforated sides and solid bottoms work best.

• Make sure your storage containers are well secured for rougher conditions.

• Check all contents frequently to catch the bad apple before it spoils the bunch.

• Square corners mean more efficient use of available space.

# The cord locks make the lines easily adjustable. Photo courtesy of The Boat Galley

PREPARATION FOR O FFS h ORE R ACING Skipper Tips Beyond the Race Requirements

By Captain Steven Toole

As Chesapeake sailors, we’re fortunate to have multiple offshore racing options at home or on the East Coast. This June, the Eastport Yacht Club hosts its bi-annual Mustang Survival Annapolis Bermuda Ocean Race (June 7). Many Chesapeake racers deliver their boats to Newport, RI, to compete in the larger Newport Bermuda Race (June 21). In June 2025 Annapolis Yacht Club and Newport Yachting Center will host their bi-annual Annapolis to Newport Race (A2N).

Preparing for such endeavors takes months of planning and preparation, if not more than a year. Having done just one offshore race in my 35-plus years of racing, I’m certainly no expert on the subject. Professional sailing coach Jahn Tihansky gives an entire hour-long-ish presentation covering 11 different subject areas of offshore racing. So, one of the benefits of writing for SpinSheet is that I get to learn about a variety of topics by interviewing others like Tihansky, with far more experience and expertise and convey this knowledge to you.

Each offshore race has its own specific requirements for each boat, including safety training and certification such as CPR and Safety at Sea, as well as navigation and location equipment such as AIS, having a life raft onboard, and numerous other necessities. If you’re considering an offshore race as crew or

skipper, reference the race requirements as early as possible to allow ample time to plan and prepare.

This article is not intended to rehash these requirements, nor serve as a comprehensive preparation guide. The insights and tips contained here serve more as some street smarts of experienced offshore racers based here on the Bay.

Crew Prep

As skipper of my J/120 Hot Pepper, I don’t take lightly the burden I assume for the safety and wellbeing of my crew. In speaking with several experienced offshore racers, I was humbled, impressed, and inspired to learn about the measures they’ve taken to prepare their crew for the high seas.

Todd Berget skippered his J/120 Skadi to win the A2N Race in 2023. He’s currently preparing to race in this year’s Newport to Bermuda Race. His advice

was to get all of the crew certifications completed over the winter prior to the offshore race. He held multiple Zoom calls with his crew this past winter to plan crew positions, race requirements and other logistics so that the spring warming could allow focus on boat prep.

“Once the boat is ready to go in the water, we put together a practice schedule for the whole spring,” Berget noted. “We typically practice once or twice a week in April and May.”

The crew runs through all maneuvers repeatedly, with coaches onboard such as Jason Currie from Quantum Sails and Tihansky. “Having a coach onboard forces us to do the things we don’t want to do, like practicing crew overboard drills 10-15 times at night with the kite up using a cushion with a glowstick,” Berget noted.

Steve Hale captained Cookie Monster in its third offshore race with A2N in

# Steven Hale’s Cookie Monster at the start of the 2023 A2N. Photo by Mark Hergan

2023 which followed Newport to Bermuda in 2022 and A2N in 2021. “We did a lot of practice last year for the A2N,” said Hale.

To gain the most realistic experience, he scheduled onboard training sessions starting as early as March to repeatedly execute a cadre of exercises such as using storm sails and crew overboard drills at night under spinnaker. Hale recommends practicing in early spring high winds and rain to get the crew comfortable with takedowns and sail changes before the summer lulls set in.

“Getting the spinnaker down in high winds is an important element of practice. It’s definitely top of the list of items to practice for when the wind is blowing and it’s raining,” Hale said. He also notes the benefit of identifying any crew that’s better suited on dry land or buoy racing long before the boat leaves the Bay.

On that note, seasickness is a very real concern, even among the most experienced sailors. Typical Bay conditions pale in comparison to the 10-foot rollers offshore

races may present. Sick crew compromise the safety and effectiveness of the entire boat. To prepare for this, Hale requires all crew to use the Scopolamine patch starting the day before the race start. He prefers the Stugeron patch which has fewer side effects but is harder to obtain.

Safety Measures

Stressing again to refer to the specific safety requirements for each individual offshore race, several best practices emerged from the skippers I interviewed. Doug Ellmore owns the Canadian Sailcraft 30 Revolution which he’s currently prepping for the A2B this June.

“For regular weekly races, people come after work, getting familiar with the boat but not really practicing offshore sailing. Our intent is to do an overnight destination with continuous sailing, sleeping overnight, and practicing COB multiple times,” said Ellmore.

He has obtained a refurbished AED for his boat this year. Some of his crew

will use personal AIS devices as well. He has replaced the lifelines on deck, refitted his jacklines to be centerline, and added more jacklines in the cockpit to keep crew onboard. His crew will wear PFDs at all times, including while sleeping. Ellmore has added reflective tape to anything that can go overboard and will have more throw gear in the cockpit than what the race requirements specify.

Boat Prep

The more offshore races a boat has done, the less prep it likely needs for each race. Some boat maintenance may be due anyway, so it’s difficult to say just how much work a boat may need. Ellmore replaced his standing rigging on Revolution this past winter. He also overhauled his head system and freshwater plumbing, serviced his seacocks, and converted his alternator to an external regulator so that he’d have a spare alternator.

Hale installed Li-Ion batteries and a large alternator to reduce engine run time

to align with crew shift schedules. He replaced his halyards with contrasting black and white colors for better identification at night, since colored flecks all seem to look the same under red light. He built and installed pipe berths so more crew could sleep in the middle of the boat for better weight distribution. He also rebuilt and installed an old watermaker to reduce water weight.

Provisions

To reduce dependency on refrigeration, Hale packs one disposable Styrofoam cooler for each day with deep frozen meals in casserole pans that can be placed right into the oven to reheat and serve. He points out that freeze dried meals don’t save space or weight since water needs to be added anyway.

Testing Navigation and Electronics

It’s important to test equipment in all conditions well before race day. According to Hale, offshore data was a challenge on Cookie Monster. The Iridium satellite setup wasn’t reliable offshore, despite performing initial tests in the Bay. Ellmore is adding two 75W solar panels to the bimini of Revolution to supplement his 100-Amphour Battleborn for the house plus two additional 100-Amp lithium batteries onboard. He installed circuit breakers so that they can be isolated in a storm to avoid a total loss of electronics in the event of a lightning strike.

Learn More

Be sure to study your race’s individual requirements carefully. Sign up for the Safety at Sea Seminar at the US Naval

Academy April 6-7 (mtam.org/safetyat-sea). US Sailing also has resources available. Find an archive of offshore and safety articles at spinsheet.com

Professional coaches such as Currie or Tihansky are excellent resources as well. Be safe, and good sailing.

About the Author:

Capt. Steven Toole races and cruises on his J/120 Hot Pepper and is also active on the boards of the Chesapeake Racer Cruiser Association and Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association.

This is the first of our three-part offshore series. Find the next two installments in our May and June issues.

Photo by David Sites

Safety and Security Onboard

With safety and security on the front page and on cruisers’ minds, here are tips on avoiding trouble spots and deterring unwanted visitors.

News of the horrific crimes committed against the crew of Simplicity in Grenada shocked and saddened every corner of the cruising community. Sailors started questioning what they can do to feel safer, where to go and not to go, and how they might handle a similar situation.

What happened to Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel on their catamaran Simplicity was a random act of violence and a tragic case of wrong place, wrong time. Escaped prisoners in Grenada boarded their boat on a mooring ball in a busy, safe harbor. While the investigation is ongoing, evidence points to the three men attacking the couple, throwing them overboard, and leaving the country on their boat. The men were caught, but

the bodies of the couple have not been found. Sadly, this case is no different than a drunk driver running a red light and taking your life while you drive to the store for groceries. To be clear, there was nothing Simplicity could have done differently to change what happened.

Now that safety and security are on the front page and on sailors’ minds, it’s a good time to look at what we can and can’t do to feel safer at sea.

The More You Know

Avoiding trouble spots is your best weapon. How can you know which places are the ones to avoid? Arm yourself with information. There are some fabulous

# Learn how to use your VHF radio properly by taking a course through Cruisers University in person or online through BoatUS or The Boat Galley.

online tools that sailors can and should check regularly as they travel around. The Caribbean Safety and Security Net (CSSN) (safetyandsecuritynet.org) is top of the list. CSSN’s mission is to collect and share accurate data about crimes against yachts in the Caribbean. Jamie and Behan Gifford of Cruising Totem point their coaching clients to CSSN all the time.

“We are so lucky to have such a thoughtfully managed resource with so much context, and no hyperbole,” says Behan from their boat in Mexico.

CSSN doesn’t tell you where to go and where not to go. They simply report crime statistics to promote awareness and help crews better prepare and make independent

# Don’t keep an air horn buried in your locker. Consider keeping one on deck and where you sleep.

Cindy Wallach

decisions. They also collaborate with Noonsite (noonsite.com) and No Foreign Land (NFL, noforeignland.com) to reach cruisers on multiple platforms.

“Noonsite and NFL do a good job. And don’t forget local Facebook groups,” suggests Jamie. “You can find one for just about every cruising area. You can ask questions there or just keyword search things like theft or crime.” Caribbean Navigator is another solid Facebook group with helpful information. Remember to look for facts, not opinions.

Deterrence

You are no more or less at risk of being a victim of crime while sailing around than you are while living on land. That said, there are some steps you can take to make your boat less likely to be boarded. It has nothing to do with what kind of boat you sail. Criminals are not known to be deep thinkers. They are opportunists; they’re looking for the easiest boat. Focus on scaring off criminals rather than confronting intruders which can quickly escalate to violence.

A universally simple addition is a set of motion sensor lights. They’re affordable and easy to install. Many run

on small solar cells. They can be moved and positioned as needed around your cockpit or aft deck. If a thief notices that your boat lights up when movement is detected, hopefully they will skip your boat.

Another cheap and easy tool is an air horn. Many sailors have one buried deep in a locker, but consider keeping one where you sleep. It’s a quick and easy way to make the boats around you take notice.

It’s also important to know how to use your VHF radio and actually use it. Do you know how to use the DSC button? Do you know what channel the harbor you’re anchored in monitors? Dinghy around to your neighbors, introduce yourself, and ask. And yes, keep the VHF on at night. Even when you have the volume down, you will still hear a DSC distress call loud and clear. If you’re new to cruising and need a primer on VHF radios, check out the course offered by The Boat Galley (products.theboatgalley. com/products/vhf-course) or All About Marine Radio by BoatUS (boatus.org/ marine-radio).

Finally, there’s the age-old deterrence of a loud dog. Dogs are a huge commitment when cruising and not one

About the Author: Longtime SpinSheet columnist Cindy Wallach is cruising the Caribbean with her family and two dogs aboard their St. Francis 44 catamaran Majestic, which is for sale. Learn more at majesticstfrancis44forsale.com

to take lightly or just for security, but a toothy noise-maker would certainly make an opportunistic criminal think twice about climbing aboard your boat. If you have a friendly Golden Retriever who wags his tail at everyone, well then you may be out of luck.

Defense

If deterrence doesn’t work and you find someone on your boat who should not be there, then what? There is the neverending American debate about guns, which we won’t attempt to solve here. But know that you can easily have your own gun turned against you, changing a bad situation into a deadly one. Also, most countries require you to declare and often hand over weapons when you arrive. They keep them until you clear out.

Pepper spray is legal, and it works. There is a lot of talk about using insect repellents to spray an attacker, but field tests show that these are not effective. Pepper spray works and gives you the time you need to get away and/or get help.

Sounding an alarm, lighting up your boat, or getting away have proven to keep sailors safer than confrontation. Statistically, trying in any capacity to fight an intruder almost always ends badly for the sailor.

“Don’t turn petty theft into a loss of life,” Jamie warns.

Good People

If we all believed the click-bait cycle of bad news, we might never leave our beds. The truth is that the world is full of good people, and hopefully you can surround yourself with them wherever you go.

“Don’t think of people you meet as ‘other.’ They are your fellow humans. Connecting with them will build comfort and enrich your life,” Behan tells me between coaching calls with cruisers all around the world. “Make friends where you are. Get to know your anchor neighbors, and get to know people on shore. Invite people over, and take the time to talk with them. If you invest in connecting with people, they will invest in your safety and security.”

The world is full of good people and bad people, no matter where you go, so sail on and sail safe.

# Even smaller dogs have migthy barks that deter intruders.

Paros and Antiparos Getting Hooked on Two Greek Isles

By Zuzana Prochazka

Ihave chartered in Greece four times and I’ve barely scratched the surface.

There are so many island groups, each with a distinct personality, that you could keep busy for a lifetime of boating. The Cyclades to the south of the mainland are spectacular. Two of those, Paros and Antiparos, should be on your list if you find yourself setting sail in this part of the world.

Situated at the heart of the Cyclades group, Paros and Antiparos could alone commandeer three days of your charter. We arrived at the Parikia Harbor early and had to wait for boats checking out. Nobody moves here before 10 a.m. Although I could have sworn no cat would fit, we wiggled our Lagoon 42 chartered from Navigare Yachting into a space that we weren’t going to leave easily.

Careful lining up, serious engine power, and sheer determination squeezed us in as Greek men on the dock shouted directions I couldn’t understand anyway. No meltemi wind was going to mess with us here.

Our dockmaster rode his tiny bicycle over to collect cash, turn on the water, and tell us which rental car agency to use. The weather was sketchy. I was glad we were parked up and spending the day wandering the tiny alleys of the chora or old town. The passages here are paved from wall to wall, and when a downpour hit the steep “streets,” we were knee deep in rushing water that ran past the cafes and craft shops. Wet flipflops aside, we were hunting for a dinner spot,

but truth be told, you can’t swing a cat without hitting one remarkable eatery after another here. And the wine…

The next morning, we rented a vehicle and drove down to Pounta to take the 30-minute car ferry to neighboring Antiparos. The smaller island is a getaway of sorts for both Athenians as well as full-time residents of Paros and Naxos. Our goal was to visit the famous cave. Reaching down nearly 300 feet, this cave was first explored in the 15th century, but it had served as a site of refuge and worship for millenia. The oldest stalagmite at the cave’s entrance is 45 million years old and the 411 steps down into the cave’s belly will give you a workout on the way back up.

After a fairly tiring climb, we needed to rejuvenate, so we headed to the west coast of the island and the Rooster Wellness Center for lunch. This is the kind of spa where the staff wear silk pajamas and everyone speaks in hushed tones. It was hard to decide which was the best part— the designer grounds, the organic cuisine, the spectacular cocktails, or the view of the ocean. I could have lived here a while.

You could easily spend two days on tiny Antiparos, hiking around Kouros Village or visiting Despotiko Island next door, which is a combination of beaches and ancient Greek ruins. But when in Greece, there’s a spectacular island right around the corner, so we returned to Parikia, handed off the car, and wiggled our way out of

# Cocktails at the Rooster after a strenuous hike.

# Lunch at the Rooster Antiparos Lifestyle and Wellness Center. Photos by Zuzana Prochazka

Charter Notes

our “slip” the next morning to set sail like Odysseus.

The Cyclades are a sprawling group, and I’ve still not visited all of the islands. The sail down from Athens is usually a fun and fast ride, but the return against prevailing winds can be a tricky bash. If the dreaded dry northern meltemi is blowing, you’ll have to wait for a weather window which is tough to do on charter; so plan ahead.

The Navigare base is at Agios Kosmas Marina south of Athens. You can drop anchor at Sounion on the way down and at the island of Kea when heading back up. Sounion has a stunning hilltop temple to visit, and Kea is a gorgeous island terraced with olive groves and quite different from the rest of the dry Cyclades. This will make two long days at sea to reach Paros, but you’ll sail at least one of them. Two weeks is always better for a charter in

Tthe Cyclades and worth it after you fly all that way. If you book during the shoulder season of May, you’ll have a better pick of boats and few crowds to contend with.

I can hardly wait to revisit Greek waters. It’s some of the most scenic, friendly, and fabulous chartering anywhere. Once you go, you’ll be hooked, too. #

Directory

hese sailboat charter companies specialize in sailing destinations such as the Chesapeake Bay, Northeast United States, Northwest United States, South America, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and South Pacific. Contact them and book your charter dream vacation today!

Attention Chesapeake Bay sailing clubs: share your club news and events in SpinSheet’s Club Notes section by sending a 350-word write-up and one or more clear photos of smiling faces or pretty boats to beth@spinsheet.com

We’d love to hear about your cruises, educational programs, and outstanding club members. Let other sailors know about all the benefits your club has to offer! Thanks to Club Notes section sponsor, YaZu Yachting! Find them at yazuyachting.com and on Facebook.

Planning a Terrific Sailing Season

Hunter Sailing Association Station-1 (HSA-1) members held our annual Winter Lunch on February 24 at Pirates Cove Restaurant and Dock Bar in Galesville, MD. We had a delicious buffet arranged by our vice commodore Pete Harsh (Treasure Hunter) and had 15 sailboats represented. We socialized discussing recent and planned vacations and upcoming spring boat maintenance, as we caught up with our friends.

After lunch commodore Celeste Streger (Bay Dream) reviewed the current plans for the HSA-1 calendar year. At the time, our next in-person get-together was our club’s annual March sock burning. Plans are in the works for a short shake-out sail in April and dinner during the Spring Sailboat Show in Annapolis.

If you have a Hunter in the mid-Chesapeake Bay and are not a member, please check out our club at

hsa1.org or email commodore@hsa1. org to learn more about the benefits of membership, which includes access to all club cruises and events and a direct connection to a network of Chesapeake Bay Hunter owners.

Visit the special Sailing Clubs Booth at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show to meet us in person and to learn more about membership and the details of our plans for the year.

Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake

By Susan Theuns

Things are shaping up for the upcoming sailing season! Our first official event is a Potluck Meet & Greet on Sunday, April 7 in Easton, MD. Current members have been notified via the club FaceBook page and by email. If you are a member and have not received your invite, please check your junk folder and/or reach out

to us via email. We will have upcoming event fliers available at the potluck.

The “Get R Done” raft up is scheduled for Saturday, May 4 for those who may or may not have everything ship-shape for the season— no worries if your sails are not on yet—just motor over and join us for an overnight raft, anchor, or day sail.

Give Sailing a Try!

By Ray Enger

You don’t need a boat or experience to join the Philadelphia Sailing Club (PSC)!

Our club has just announced its 2024 Sail Program schedule. Our sold-out trips have a wait list, so put your name on it and don’t give up if an event is full. All Chesapeake Bay trips board from Rock Hall, MD. You must be a member to join us on a trip. Join and start receiving our monthly newsletter.

PSC will offer a full day of classroom education courses on April 6 at the Tredyffrin Library in Strafford, PA, with courses on Sailing Theory, Rules of the Road, Navigating, Anchoring, Heavy Weather, and more. At our website, philadelphiasailingclub.org, click on Activities and then Education on our homepage to learn more and download the registration form. There you may also watch our videos about our trip to Maine last year.

Details are featured online where you can also indicate you are a go, no-go, or maybe. This is a great opportunity to get advice, lend a hand or gain some insight on that pressing boating issue.

The inaugural CBCC Spring Cruise is in the works with a fun itinerary in the Mid-Bay region. Please pencil-in June 2 through 8 for this event. Note that Saturday, June 1 is available as a travel day for those whose homeports may not be close. Stay tuned for details in the near future.

If you are interested in joining a boating club that is tailored to you, please send a brief description of your experience, contact information and expectations to

CompassBoatingClub@yahoo.com

We look forward to hearing from you! You can also visit our FaceBook page, Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake.

This season’s Sail Program schedule is as follows:

Two-day Weekends on the Chesapeake Bay: May 11-12 (soldout); Sept 21-22 (sold-out); October 5- 6.

Three-day Weekends on the Chesapeake Bay: Memorial Day, May 25-27; Labor Day, August 31 to September 2.

Five-day Monday to Friday on the Chesapeake Bay: June 3-7; prerequisite is two weekend trips with PSC (sold out).

Week in the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest: July 13-19; prerequisite is two weekend trips with PSC (sold out).

In addition to our regular sail program, in 2025 we will offer a seven-day trip in the British Virgin Islands, April 12 to 19.  The prerequisite is two weekend trips with PSC.

PSC meets every third Wednesday at the Radnor Valley Country Club in Villanova, except in December. Stop by for Happy Hour on the first Wednesday of the month. Visit our website for location and details.

# You don’t need a boat or experience to join the Philadelphia Sailing Club!

# Rich Tull gets Patriot Dream ready for the season.

Strong Leadership Celebrated

On the first day of daylight savings time, Sunday, March 10, members of America’s Boating Club Wilmington (ABCW) thoroughly enjoyed a delicious brunch provided by Schaefer’s Canal House on the C&D Canal.

The club membership was celebrating the 84th Change of Watch on the 86th year of the club’s distinguished history. As is typical of every ABC club throughout the U.S, at a Change of Watch we install a new commander, bridge officers and executive committee for the year. During the formal program, commander Richard Butler dismissed the past year’s leadership. The assistant education officer from the mid-Atlantic region of ABC installed the new commander, John Bailey, bridge officers, and executive committee members.

The club continues to grow, with 13 new members within the past year. More than 101 boaters aboard more than 40 sailboats and powerboats within the club enjoy the educational and monthly social activities, including summer weekend raftups and a well-planned weeklong summer cruise on the Chesapeake Bay.

We sincerely appreciate the devoted service provided by our dedicated leadership and look forward to more camaraderie during the interesting and fun activities in the coming months. To learn more about the educational and social opportunities provided by ABCW, visit us at abc-wilmington.com or contact us at wspsboaters@gmail.com

# Richard Butler recognizes past commader Mark and former secretary Chris for their 23 years of dedicated service.

A hands-On, DIY Attitude

The days are getting longer and the weather more conducive to pleasurable sailing on the Bay. Boats are launching like penguins off an iceberg. Whether you’ve ducked the winter doldrums by heading south or found a few winter projects to keep you busy, the Chesapeake Bay boating season is upon us. A sampling of what “floats” Chesapeake Bay Tartan Club members is highlighted below and typifies our hands-on DIY attitude. We are a club that enjoys helping fellow sailors with old or new boat issues.

One of the season’s best attended events is the Spring Symposium. On April 6 we will gather at the Eastport Yacht Club and hear from a variety of speakers regarding boat surveys, the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, and, biologically, what’s going on in the Bay.

After a six-month winter cruise to St. Augustine, FL, Brunswick, GA, Savannah, GA, and Charleston, SC, club members Stuart and Jeanie Smith, owners of the Tartan Eagle, have her ready to launch after hauling for bottom maintenance. They’ll be returning to the Bay mid-April just in time for the start of the 2024 season.

Over the winter member Robert Turk from Ontario, Canada, took on the task of refinishing the floorboards on his Tartan 4600. Now he’s just waiting for some warmer weather to apply the final finish.

Our next event is May 25-27 in the Wye River. It is a multi-club event which has been very popular in years past. CBTSC members can sign up by visiting cbtsc.org. Let’s go sailing!

# Refinished floorboards for

Racing for Cruisers on the Magothy

From the last Friday in May (May 31) through the last Friday in September (September 27), Yacht Club Cape St Claire (YCCSC) organizes friendly Friday Night Races on the Magothy River.

These races are geared to cruisers, that is, we want to keep a laid-back attitude. They are tailored to the beginning or casual racer. We also want to keep it easy, so headsail changes are not allowed (in particular, no spinnaker or “code”

sails). There is no need to know about racing rules (we just want to have fun; low-key is the word!), and we do not entertain protests. Couples and parents with children, friends, and the like come out to try their hands at rounding the buoys in some semblance of order. It is a wonderful way to get out on your boat, enjoy a sunset, shake the workweek out of your system, and maybe earn some bragging rights on the way.

Every boat is different (so we use handicaps based on the PHRF system to make it more equal), from an 18-foot pocket cruiser to a 40-plus foot cruising yacht. We even entered an occasional Hobie 16 or other type of dinghy. The goal is not so much to win, as it is to have another reason to sail with our friends from the club. There is no cost to YCCSC members (including Magothy River Sailing Association and Gibson Island Yacht Squadron). Non-members may join YCCSC with membership dues of $45 (application is on the website). Directions are included in the Committee Boat Information document on the Friday Night Racing page of sites.google.com/site/ capeyachtclub/home

Races start at 7 p.m. (6:30 p.m. in September) between Deep Creek and Dobbins Island and typically last one hour. Join us on Friday nights! Just show up and find the race committee boat (flying a “RC” flag); check-in with the committee, find out about the course, and get ready for the start. The results are published weekly on our website.

Robert Turk’s Tartan 4600.

ESSA Is Turning 50 This Year!

The Eastern Shore Sailing Association (ESSA) is celebrating 50 years of sailing this year!

ESSA was founded in 1974, when 76 sailors got together to form the association. Sailing was centered on the Nanticoke and Choptank Rivers. Each division ran its own schedules under common rules. The founding leadership consisted of Dr. Donald McShane, James Hillman, and Dr. Stedman Smith. ESSA offered a schedule of weekly racing and weekend cruising from April through November.

By 1975, the membership had grown to 137 with more than 100 boats. Wednesday evening races on the Choptank and Nanticoke became a regular part of the schedule and continue to this day. A variety of social gatherings or meetings over the non-sailing months kept the group linked together. During the 1970s

a monthly newsletter was started. Growth continued through the 1980s, and the Wednesday evening races divided into Spin and Non-Spin classes in the Choptank Fleet.

The Tangier Fleet started and is still predominantly a one-design fleet of Tanzer 22s. In 1982 an Ocean City Fleet was added. Through the 1980s there were many successful cruises. Seminars helped to increase sailing skills, and the association put out a yearbook. All fleets grew their schedule of events through the early part of the 90s, a highlight being the return of the Choptank Cup to its historical place at the end of the season.

2024 is the first year that the Choptank Cup is a CBYRA sanctioned race and is open to all sailors. ESSA is working to rekindle the joy of sailing on the Choptank and Nanticoke Rivers. The Choptank Fleet enjoys organized racing on Wednesdays, and the Tangier fleet on Thursdays. A big change this year will be the switch to the ORR-EZ handicap

rating and scoring system for the Choptank Fleet. We promote small boat sailing with Cambridge Yacht Club racing on Thursday evenings on the Choptank. Organizers are planning events and cruises to celebrate this special anniversary. ESSA has been the driving force for sailing on the Eastern Shore for the past 50 years, and we look forward to building our presence over the next 50. For more information visit essasailing.org

# Tanzer 22s on the Nanticoke (Tangier fleet).

# CCA commodore Jay Gowell (L) presents Ralph Naranjo (R) the Cruising Club of America Richard S. Nye Award for service to the CCA and the sailing community.

Photo by Dan Nerney

# Eastern Shore Sailing Association cruisers’ social at the Cambridge Marina.

# Eagle, a Tartan 4100 owned by Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club members Stuart and Jeanie Smith, is ready to launch after a six-month winter cruise and haul out for bottom maintenance.

# The Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club 2024 planning meeting was held at Selby Bay Yacht Club and via Zoom.

# America’s Boating Club-Wilmington members who attended the March 10 Change of Watch Ceremony.

Sailing Schedule Is Set!

By Mary Ann Gordon

The Sailing Club began with the idea that sailing to various places was more fun when there were more people to share the work and the fun. The concept has served the club well for over 40 years. This year’s schedule of trips has something for everyone, providing both weekend and weeklong trips.

As usual, our sailing calendar starts with an On-Water Training weekend May 18-19, out of Rock Hall, MD. Navigation, sailing basics, and even some knot tying will be reviewed. Participants will get hands-on practice at the wheel reversing and docking. This weekend is a must-do for our club first mates and skippers every two years, but all are welcome once those necessary places have been filled.

The weekend of June 21-23, there’s a trip from Rock Hall to St. Michaels, MD, and the Eastern Bay. With the longer

summer days, there will be an equal amount of time sailing, as well as the many on-land activities provided by charming St. Michaels.

August 16 will have crews boarding in Rock Hall for a three-day weekend heading north and returning to the docks Monday, August 19. The Bay offers both its bounty of crabs and some great sailing this time of year.

September is a weeklong trip in Penobscot Bay, ME, utilizing a charter company in Rockport. The planned stops include Bar Harbor, and we have lots of time scheduled for enjoying lobster and chowder! The club has two monohulls reserved for September 14-20, a period known for less fog and tourists.

October’s highlight is a week sailing out of Solomons Island on the southern Chesapeake Bay on October 13-20, with

# Club members sailing with jib only off the coast of southern France. Cherie at the helm.

early boarding on October 12. The plan is for great sailing and exploring the small bays and towns of the area.

A winter escape sailing trip to the Caribbean to Costa Rica is in the planning stage for late January into February. More to come on this later.

The sign-up information for the upcoming season is on the club website, thesailingclub.org

CIntroduction to Sea Kayaking

hesapeake Paddlers Association, an all-volunteer nonprofit organization, is bringing its annual SK101-Introduction to Sea Kayaking to Kent Island on Saturday, April 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cult Classic Brewery. This always popular event highlights kayaking safety as it guides participants through everything from the purchase of their first true sea kayak to participation in kayak adventures throughout the Chesapeake Bay region. This is the perfect opportunity for a beginner kayaker to launch a voyage toward more advanced skills and equipment and a lifetime of enjoyment of the sport.

Join us for a day of exploring sea kayaking in the classroom with local paddlers and instructors, no boat needed! Learn how to get comfortable with a little more distance and a little more bounce to open up a world of new kayaking and social opportunities. Enthusiastic paddlers will share their experiences and expertise on a wide variety of topics. Lunch, snacks, and beverages are provided for a registration fee of $40. Tickets and additional details can be found at sk101_2024.eventbee.com.

Topics include: your first boat—styles, shapes, and sizes; picking the perfect paddle; where to paddle; history of kayaking; car top or trailer; safety; the three Ps (pump, paddle float, and PFD); and a fashion show of paddling garb and gear. Learn more about CPA at cpakayaker.com

Can You log 100 Days on The Water?

# Photo courtesy of Chesapeake Paddlers Association Facebook page

Orange Bowl

By Storrie Kulynych-Irvin

As frostbite racing season began in Annapolis this winter, several area youth sailors traveled south to warmer waters to race in the Orange Bowl International Youth Regatta in Miami at the end of December. Sixhundred-forty sailors from around the country and world competed across the divisions of the 2023 Orange Bowl, one of the biggest annual junior sailing events. In return for giving up holiday leisure time, these sailors got to try themselves against top competition.

Eleven Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC) sailors competed in Opti Red White & Blue, the biggest class of the competition with 224 boats. Among them was Gracie Crespin, who finished 40th. Crespin, who joined the AYC Opti Race Team in fall 2022, was competing in her second Orange Bowl. Her prior experience helped her relax more during this year’s competition and spend some time with friends on and off the water. She “enjoyed sailing in a lot of different conditions over the regatta.”

Orange Bowl sailors range from Green Fleet sailors under 10 years old to ILCA, 420, and 29er class

sailors of high school age. Sailors often travel with their families to Miami before the holidays for pre-regatta clinics and stay on for the week of competition.

Chris Draper, sailing in ILCA 6, usually competes for Severn Sailing Association (SSA). But since SSA did not send a Laser team to Orange Bowl this year, Draper competed under Key Biscayne Yacht Club, praising the guidance of KBYC coach Agustín Vidal.

Annapolis sailors had perhaps their best showing in the ILCA 6 class, with Draper placing 24th, Sam de los Reyes taking 17th, and Alders Kulynych-Irvin (my sister) placing 18th as the top female finisher. Draper previously competed for two years in the Orange

Bowl Red, White, and Blue class. This year, he stacked up a series of finishes between 12th and 22nd over eight races. Draper was happy with his consistency this year, though he felt that he “left a little bit out on the race course” and would’ve benefited from more races. He said the conditions, though tougher on some days, were fairly consistent and similar to his experiences in St. Petersburg and in Annapolis, where he’s practiced racing in the SSA Frostbite Series.

Sailing out of SSA, Nat Bonham took 17th in the smaller 21-boat ILCA 7 fleet. His sibling, Molly Bonham, crewed for skipper Annie Sitzmann in the 29er competition at the companion “Open Orange Bowl” event.

# AYC teammates at the Orange Bowl. Photos courtesy of Gracie Crespin

# Day one at the Orange Bowl Regatta at Coral Reef YC. Photo by @tuuciorangebowlregatta/ Instagram

More Youth Sailing in SpinSheet

If you know of a successful junior, high school, or college sailor from the Chesapeake whom you think we should interview, send a note to beth@spinsheet.com . We plan to increase our youth coverage over the summer and fall seasons and welcome reader feedback.

The Open Orange Bowl also attracts an international crowd of youth sailors from over 25 countries as well as adult sailors. The fleets are large and competitive, and results are a good benchmark for a sailor’s skill and performance level. Bonham and Sitzmann, who have been training together, placed third out of 16 boats in the 29er category.

AYC was also well-represented in the 420 competition. Alex and Lilly Baker took 26th, Mason Cook and James Ronayne finished 38th, with Halsey Carter and Draper’s sibling Daniel Draper just behind them in 39th. Bailey Kreszswick and Mollie Wood placed 79th.

This year’s Orange Bowl motivated sailors to continue testing themselves against international competition and across different boat classes. Draper plans to compete in the U.S. Sailing Youth Championship this June and is considering moving up to the ILCA 7 class in next year’s Orange Bowl, which will be his last. Crespin, who began sailing in Optis after moving to Annapolis in the summer of 2020, will represent USODA’s Team USA at the Lake Garda meeting this spring. She looks forward to returning to Orange Bowl next year and racing in new classes in the future.  #

# Optis on the water.

# Grace at the Orange Bowl.

the

• Fun pursuit-style race with the option of sailing clockwise or counter-clockwise.

• Pursuit race awards for PHRF Spin & Non-Spin & any one-design class with 5 or more entries by May 13

• Award for top boat with junior sailors onboard

• River course for Harbor 20s & Snipes vans & Stepping Out Shirts Party at horn Point

• Cake & beer!

• Awards for the best stepping out shirts

Fundraising to help an excellent Cause

• Award for top fundraising team/boat

• Red Vans for top fundraising individual

• New this year! Award for top junior fundraiser

The EWE Spirit Foundation’s mission is to honor the legacy of Geoff Ewenson by helping those facing immediate hardship bridge financial and social support gaps through mentorship, outreach and financial assistance, thus creating a kind world where everyone has the resources and opportunity to live with dignity, hope and joy.

It’s Spring Tune-Up Time!

Equinox, sock burning, sanding, scrubbing, painting, deck check, rig tune… splash! May it all go swiftly and smoothly for sailors as we ready our race boats for April early season competition. Before the first big regatta of the

season, the Helly Hanson Sailing World Regatta Series Annapolis May 3-5, there will be plenty of opportunities to warm up on the racecourse and get the kinks out.

Southern Bay sailors tend to start early—not only is it warmer down there, but it’s hard to keep the sailing-crazy Norfolk and Hampton racers inside when the Bay awaits. Hampton Yacht Club (HYC) and Broad Bay Sailing Association’s Little Creek and Willoughby Racers’ weeknight

races start the first week in April, two weeks before the Baltimore City Yacht Association launches its Tuesday Night Series and three weeks before Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC) Wednesday Night racers get to the start line.

On weekends, a number of spring tune-up regattas will take place this month. Starting with the Southern Bay, HYC will host an April Fools One Design Regatta (April 6). Old Point Comfort Yacht Club will start its long Yankee Point Series (April 8), and CCV Racing will begin its spring series (April 14).

At print time, the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association (CBYRA) had not yet finalized its Green Book schedule, so consider the following dates “tentative,” and confirm with the club websites on the following: Southern Maryland Sailing Association Spring Invitational (April 14), Magothy River Sailing Association Spring Fling (April 27), AYC Spring One Design Regatta (April 27), and the Navy Sailing Race to the Lighthouses (April 27).

Severn Sailing Association starts its busy season with the Solings Spring Series (April 13) and ILCA Sunshine Open (April 20) and hosts regattas like mad every weekend through fall.

Once CBYRA finalizes the big-boat schedule, we will add the remainder of the regattas to the SpinSheet Calendar (page 26 and at spinsheet.com). If you’d like to see your club’s regattas mentioned in SpinSheet or in our racing results email (starting in May), email molly@ spinsheet.com. Sail fast and have fun!

# A Navy team at the Navy Sailing Race to the Lighthouses 2023. Photo by Will Keyworth

Chairman: Jack Pope • Principal Race Officer: John McCarthy

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

Chesapeake Sailors Flock to Charleston

Dozens of Chesapeake sailors will flock to South Carolina for Charleston Race Week at Patriots Point April 18-21 in Charleston, SC. At print time, a month before the event, 170 teams had registered. Among the onedesign fleets there were 41 J/70s, 24 VX:Ones, and 16 Melges 24s.

Building upon 2023 and the regatta’s first event aboard the Yorktown at Patriots Point, this year Charleston Race Week (CRW) is excited to have use of the entire ship for its post-race events. Competitors and attendees will receive wristbands granting unlimited access to the Yorktown, including the flight deck which will be open each night.

The regatta has worked hard this past year to ensure that its famed post-race events will be at their usual high standard with great food and beverages and live music every night. Continuing in the tradition of CRW, post-racing debriefs will be held daily in the Yorktown’s 280-seat movie theater.

A Pro/Am event is scheduled for Saturday evening (conditions permitting) in which local high school sailors will get to race with the best in J/22s.

With some 1200 people visiting the Yorktown daily, the ship offers the sailing community a great opportunity to share the sport with a new audience. All of the organizations in Charleston involved with access to the sport will have booths to share information about sailing, including

STEM stations set up throughout the ship to promote sailing related activities.

Among the Chesapeake-based boats on the racecourse will be: Rob Marsh on the J/105 Blow Boat!, Ben Capuco on the RS21 Boat2, and US Patriot Sailing on the Farr 40 Patriot

The large J/70 fleet will include: Jason and Donna Aulds’ Celerity, Allan Terhune’s Casting Couch, Isaac and Nic Breen-Franklin’s Foreign Affairs, Rick Pfarr’s Little Rascal, Pete Firey’s Phoenix, Paul Green’s Progress, Jib Edwards’s Wicked, and Spencer Wait’s WooHoo!.

Edwards says, “Charleston is like a magnet for me. There’s good food, a large fleet, great competition. It’s relatively easy for me to get to… and I love the venue.”

# The new party venue on the Yorktown is a hit.

Southern Bay competitors in the Melges 32 class include David and Jacki Meiser on One Trick Pony, Ian Hill on Sitella, and Clarke McKinney and Hawk Caldwell on Wild Horses

It will be the Solomons-based One Trick Pony team’s first CRW. David Meiser

# There are 41(!) J/70s registered for CRW 2024. Photo by Priscilla Parker/ Charleston Race Week

Photo by Joy Dunigan/ Charleston Race Week

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

Racing in the J/88 fleet will be Ben and Briana Jatlow on Wild Thing and Chris and Liz Chadwick on Church Key; and in the Melges 24 fleet Chris Helmkamp of US Patriot Sailing on Patriot IV, Sandra Askew on Flying Jenny, and Max Plarr on Wild Thing. Plarr says, “I have found myself in the fortunate position to not be coach-

ing sailing on a weekend in April, so I am very excited to compete in my first official CRW. I have sailed and coached in these waters, and the sailing is epic, even when you are going sideways with the current.”

Henry Filter, a CRW regular, says, “This year I will be crewing on a J/88 (Church Key), calling tactics and trimming main with my good friend Chris

Chadwick. We are looking forward to warm weather, good breeze, and lots of current to spice up the tactical side… Oh yeah, we might enjoy a cocktail or two as well!”

It’s not too late to sign up for CRW 2024! See the “regatta registration” link for details and the crew board at charlestonraceweek.com.

# Melges 24s in action in Charleston.

Photo by Priscilla Parker/ Charleston Race Week

# Photo by Priscilla Parker/ Charleston Race Week

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

Champagne Sailing at the Bacardi Cup

The 97th Bacardi Cup and Bacardi Invitational Regatta March 3-10 brought together more than 200 teams, setting a new record for the event. More than 600 sailors from 25 nations, spanning North and South America, Europe, and Asia competed for some of sailing’s most coveted titles. Of course, Chesapeake sailors love this spectacular event and the chance to sail in Miami at the end of winter.

On the final day, all eyes were riveted on the three-way tie-break to determine the winners of the 97th Bacardi Cup. Biscayne Bay set the stage for a spectacular finale, kicking off with a building 12-knot breeze and waves.

With unwavering focus, Mateusz Kusznierewicz/Bruno Prada controlled the Star fleet from start to finish, clinching an unprecedented fifth consecutive victory and once again forced the chasing fleet to walk in their shadow. Among the 66-boat Star class fleet were Chesapeake sailors Matthew Rajacich, James Golden, and Bobby Lippincott.

In the Melges 24, Snipe, and VX One Classes, Bora Gulari, Ernesto Rodriguez, and Christopher Alexander emerged triumphant, with back-to-back race wins.

Dark Energy consolidated its position in the J/70, while Marek Zaleski advanced from third to first in the Viper 640.

“It was so close going into the final race,” says Mary Ewenson who placed second in the Viper Evil Hiss Ewenson’s shoulder injury prevented her from steering the boat, so regular crew member Rob Gorman drove for the entire regatta, while Jahn Tihansky called tactics and Ewenson and Jane Moore worked the front of the boat.

“Rob is an excellent driver—calm and composed. We hadn’t all four of us sailed together, but everyone had sailed with me before.”

For the entire event, she says, “It was terrific, champagne sailing, with eight to 10 knots on the first day and breezier the

second and third days: planing conditions. On the last day, Jimmy Praley (on the Viper Robot Flamingo from Annapolis) was winning going into it. We had a fantastic last day and won the last race.”

Marek Zaleski, who sails with his dad, Chris, and Jake Bradt on Team Z, ultimately pulled out the win with Praley and Ewenson tying for second place. Evil Hiss won the tiebreaker for second; Praley and team finished in third.

Chesapeake sailors in the Viper fleet included Vir Menon (who also sailed with his dad, Aditya Menon, and Chris Pfrang), Peter Ill, and Dailey Tipton Ewenson had arrived early in the week to attend the Star Class party. “The Star Class has been super great to the EWE Spirit Foundation,” the three-year-old non-profit started in honor of her late husband Geoff Ewenson.

She says, “It’s really nice that Bacardi has helped us find great organizations to donate to and gives us the time on the microphone. Geoff loved sailing in this event.”

The EWE Spirit Foundation made three grants at the event to Voices for Children, Shake-a-Leg Miami, and People in Crisis United.

Save the date for next year’s Bacardi Cup March 2-8, 2025: bacardiinvitational.com

# Mary Ewenson made three grants at the event from the EWE Spirit Foundation. Photos by Martina Orsini/ Bacardi Invitational Regatta

# Mary Ewenson’s Viper Evil Hiss placed second.

WhAT The ViPeR fleeT offeRS:

• A group of dedicated sailors that enjoy having fun, sharing their knowledge, and good camaraderie.

• Excellent events in great locations.

• A boat that is easy to trailer behind just about any car.

• Fast enough for a thrill seeker, stable enough for family sailing.

• Fleets in Annapolis and Hampton.

• Local sailmaker and professional sailor support.

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

The Second Annual Rescue Regatta

Join Deltaville racers on July 12-13 in “a race to the rescue” as Middlesex County Volunteer Rescue Squad’s Rescue Regatta returns with racing, exhibits two evenings of good food, and good music hosted at the Deltaville Maritime Museum. Organizers expect to surpass the 2023 success in funds raised and in fun had. Find registration details in the coming weeks at rescueregatta.life.

The Deltaville Maritime Museum, well known by all in Middlesex and surrounding communities as a wonderful venue for nature walks, music in the park, and celebration of the area’s maritime culture and history, has graciously become a foundational sponsor of the Rescue Regatta.

On July 12 doors open at 5 p.m. Registered Regatta captains can learn of any final race details, and other guests may wish to discover the beautiful museum grounds, from a stroll through the Holly Point Nature Park, to the F.D. Crocket or the many other exterior exhibits.

At 6 p.m. delicious fare lovingly prepared by the MCVRS Ladies Auxiliary will be served at the pavilion. Beer and wine will be offered along with our signature “Rescue Me” and Dark n’ Stormy mixed drinks. At 6:30 p.m. The Michael Clark Band, featuring Tracy Clark on vocals, will take the stage. They have the tunes and the chops to move you to and on the dance floor all night!

On July 13 at 9 a.m. the Rescue Regatta skippers and crew will take to the water to race. Fishing Bay Yacht Club, another of our foundational sponsors, designed the racecourse and will officiate the race. The notice of race and registration will be posted in coming weeks at rescueregatta.life and fbyc.net. Doors open at 6 p.m. on Saturday. At 6:30 p.m. Smokin’ Joe Davenport will be at the pit in the Pavilion serving up barbequed pork with all the right sides to start the celebration. Beer and wine will be offered along with our signature mixed drinks.

YAt 7 p.m. Ray Pitman with core members of The Revival will carry the evening. The band, known for their “old school rock and soul,” will absolutely raise the roof until closing time.

During the evening events, sailors may place bids on offerings from the Rescue Regatta 2024 silent auction (to be posted online in the coming weeks at rescueregatta.life). For more information, contact Tina Mennet, committee co-chair at connect@rescueregatta.life or (804) 313-9412.

Get Ready To Show Off Your Mount Gay Red hats!

ou may remember our SpinSheet Racing Results Presented by Mount Gay Rum from last season. Starting in May, every Monday we email results from the previous week’s races up and down the Chesapeake and also significant out-of-town regattas Bay sailors love, such as Charleston Race Week or the Newport Bermuda Race.

This year, we start once again in May, so if you do not already receive these weekly emails, update your preferences at spinsheet.com/emailsignup and check “racing.”

Once the season gets started, we encourage racing sailors to send us their best Mount Gay Red Hat photo of the week to win weekly prizes. We will feature the top eight photos of the year in our October issue. Get ready to sport your red hats on deck and take some fun pics!

# Bob Fleck’s Deltaville-based Mad Hatter at the inaugural Rescue Regatta. Photo by Paul Almany

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

Terrific Race and Incredible Party at the Cock Island Race

By Gary Bahena

As the official history of the famed Southern Bay Cock Island Race relates: The Race to Cock Island was created [in] … 1987 to bring big boat racing back to Portsmouth and to showcase and promote the hospitality and history of Olde Towne Portsmouth. From its beginning, the race and events were designed by sailors. Founding chairman, Mo Whitlow, met with all the [Cruising Club of Virginia] class champions and notable competitors asking them “What would it take for you to come to Portsmouth for a weekend event and a race starting in the Portsmouth-Norfolk harbor?” The answer was “free rum, free music, and free dockage.” The race was on! Thirty-seven years later the Cock Island Race still offers a terrific race and an incredible party. The 2024 Cock Island Race will kick off in Historic Olde Towne, Portsmouth, VA, with the pre-race check-in and skippers’ brief and party on Friday, June 14. The mandatory skipper’s briefing starts at 6:30 p.m.

A free continental breakfast is provided on race morning, June 15, starting at 7:30 a.m. The first warning signal is at 9 a.m. at the northern end of the Portsmouth Seawall. Find the notice of race and sailing instructions at cockislandrace.com or use the QR Code.

The Cock Island Race always has been, and still is, about Southern Bay hospitality. Y’all come down to Portsmouth, and we’ll show you a good time.

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

Something New, Something Old

By Tom Price

Just North of the Bay Bridge, at the entrance to the Magothy, is Gibson Island. For the past century, a succession of one-design racing boats have sailed there, beginning and continuing with the beautiful Star boats, perfectly suited to the Chesapeake with large rigs and slim hulls. After Stars came the lithe and powerful 8-meter yachts, eclipsed by their little sister 6-meters. A succession of keelboats followed post war, with Ensigns, J/22s, the sleek double-ended International 210s, and currently the utilitarian, well matched fleet of Sonars. The everlasting Stars still hang tough there with a small fleet.

But something new, yet old with classic 1936 lines now swings on Gibson Island moorings. First one, then another, and soon a third, International One Design

sloops have appeared and have begun racing on the Magothy.

The Internationals or IODs as they are known are attractive 33-foot sloops with a beautiful sheer line, dainty drawn-out stern, and tall rigs. Their short waterline grows deceptively when heeled, and they settle down into the wave train created by their passage through the water.

And heel they do, with a very narrow beam. At about 30 degrees the magic happens when the heavy (3700-pound) keel takes charge, and unlike modern yachts, the helm pressure stays fingertip light even in the heaviest of winds—when the sail trim is right… and when it’s not, she whispers in your ear with the subtle touch of weather helm. Steering an IOD especially when

sitting to leeward in the slot is as close to sailing heaven as you get. They are boats you are enveloped in, and are not ones you perch on top of. As it pitches or heels, you are at the axis, in control and part of the boat, like few others. The main is trimmed tighter, jib wound in a few clicks more, backstay pulled on, and although there is a strong sense of power, the feeling of lightness in the helm remains.

This lovely class begun in 1936 has remained strong with 13 fleets around the world. Racing is uniquely even, as the class is grounded on the idea that the boats should be as evenly matched as possible. Fleet owners don’t buy sails; they pick one from an identical batch ordered in a prescribed sail purchase program: new jibs for all every three

# Photo by John Navas/ photos.navas.us

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

years, mains every five, and so on. The brilliant notion that racing should be between skippers and crews and not a bought advantage is fundamental. It’s done that way because the boats are shared.

Trailering a 33-foot-long, 7300-pound boat around with its 50foot stick isn’t feasible, so the fleets host regattas. A most unique feature of the class is that beyond fleet racing, events are held in some of the most excellent racing venues in the world (Nantucket, the lovely Oslo Fiord, Sweden, Marblehead, San Francisco, Northeast Harbor Maine, Fishers Island, Larchmont, or the idyllic Great Sound in Bermuda) on an invitational or qualifying basis. All you do is buy a plane ticket! A boat is provided for you to race with boat rotations each day.

On the social side, regattas become “old home week” as members who have raced each other for years appear at these moveable feasts.

This nascent fleet of Internationals at Gibson Island is still unofficial as a sanctioned fleet; yet several of its members have long experience in the

class. Several syndicates have formed with owners sharing the costs and crewing duties. It is hoped that the small fleet that has so much to offer beyond the boat itself will grow as an adjunct to Gibson Island’s active and multi-purpose Sonar fleet. They intend to offer invitations to teams interested in racing

these unique classics that have more in common with 12-meters than with most modern boats.

So, if you’re up sailing on the Magothy River, keep your eyes peeled for a tall rigged set of boats, heeled more than most, charging along like a vision from the past.

Tom Price won the IOD North American Invitational in 2023 at the Corinthian Yacht Club in Marblehead, MA.

# Photos courtesy of Tom Price

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

Three Ways SpinSheet helps Racers Race More

If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you’re a racing sailor or hope to be one in the near future. Here are three ways SpinSheet helps racers get on the racecourse more often:

1. We will host two in-person SpinSheet Crew Parties this month. Both parties are free, open to the public, and held rain or shine. On Saturday, April 6, sailors will gather at Marker 20 in Hampton, VA, from 6-8 p.m., and

on Sunday, April 28, we host our Annapolis party at Eastport Yacht Club from 4-6 p.m. (outdoors, so dress for the weather). Although these parties are open to all types and skill levels of sailor, the majority of

#

attendees will likely be racers with boats looking for crew or sailors who crew on other people’s boats or hope to do so soon. We only host these in-person parties in spring, so it’s important to be there to take advantage of all the sailing opportunities that will be there for you in 2024! If you’re shy, bring a friend. All party goers will wear name tags, and all are there to meet new people, so join the fun. Bring your smartphone to keep track of new contacts and some cash for the bar.

2. Even if you can’t make the Crew Parties, make sure to sign up for or update your current SpinSheet Crew Finder listing (spinsheet.com/crewfinder). We have been helping sailors find crew and/or boats to sail on since 1995. The service is free and open to all sailors of all levels. Make sure to be honest about your sailing experience— and know that not having any is not a barrier for many boat owners. They need crew and are happy to train new people. Don’t just sign up and walk away! Sailors who sign up for this service and spend time reaching out to potential boat owners or crew members have the most success making strong, lasting sailing connections.

3. Join the SpinSheet Racing Team, a virtual “club” of sorts to encourage sailors to race more often, regardless of how well they score in regattas. See spinsheet.com/racing-team to learn about our points system and sign up. All who reach their goals by the end of the racing season will earn a high-tech SpinSheet Racing Team shirt from our longtime sponsor Team One Newport.

At SpinSheet Crew Parties, you will meet boat owners looking for crew and sailors looking for boats to sail on this season.

Photo by Will Keyworth

Small Boat Scene Practice Like You Play

By Kim Couranz

Practice, practice, practice. Success in small-boat racing demands practice. While it would be great if we could just show up at regattas and be ready to compete, that’s just not the way it is. Lucky for us, sailing is fun, so practice is, too.

I’m an advocate for focused practice sessions. Yes, there are benefits to going out and sailing around for four hours, but hitting the water with an agenda and list of skills you want to refine that you tackle over, say, an hour and a half will likely bring more tangible rewards.

It’s also important to “practice like you play.” That means your practice time reflects how you race—both in your intensity and in the sailing skills you focus on.

Intensity is a big reason why you should keep your practice sessions tight. “Practice like you play” means sailing at 100 percent for close to 100 percent of the time you are on the water. On regatta days, from the time you leave

the dock until when you’re almost back on shore, you need to be tuned in and observant. Honestly, that can be pretty tiring, especially mentally. If you practice being that focused for extended periods on training days, you’ll build your mental endurance.

Even on practice days, you can practice your regatta process, building a routine for checking weather forecasts and tide and current predictions. Training days are great opportunities to lock in your nutrition and hydration, too.

“Practice like you play” also means that the skills you practice should be the skills you use while racing. “Muscle memory” helps you build a suite of capabilities that you use without conscious thought. Not only does it let you perfect your boathandling, but it also helps to root deeply in your brain how you move and what your reactions are to certain situations.

It makes sense to most of us that, to improve our roll tacks so that we don’t

have to think (much) about them while we’re racing, we go out and do roll tack after roll tack. In practice, we can break tacks down into steps to help us identify the areas we need to work on. We work on them until we can do them without thinking about the no-longer-problematic parts. That means that while we’re racing, we can just decide—“tack!”—not “tack, but remember to rotate your knees forward as you cross the boat!” (or whatever particular quirk you’re working on).

As important as it is to positively practice good things that we must incorporate into our racing, it’s also key not to practice the things we need to keep out of our racing. A big example here is kinetics. While it may be fun and speedy to do a little outside-the-rules pumping and rocking downwind, if you do that during practice races (or even low-key regattas you may consider “practice” for bigger events), you’re just training your body and mind to do that anytime (not to mention that, well, it’s cheating).

# View from the coach boat on practice day of the Melges 15 Winter Series #2 in Jensen Beach, FL. Photos by Ashley Love

Small Boat Scene

And unfortunately for you, your body and mind may forget to not do those motions at a bigger regatta when an umpire is watching for those actions.

So, yes, definitely practice how to maximize your speed, but save the illegal

kinetics for getting back to the dock after practice if the wind dies!

Another “muscle memory” to keep out of your practices is thinking negatively. As you practice—whether it’s boatspeed, boathandling, figuring out rig tune, or

Oakcliff Grads GO EvErywhErE

is 17 year old lena kurbiel the toughest person to train at oakcliff?

Maybe! This June she rows 2,800 miles alongside round the world sailing legend Liz Wardley in the Worlds

Toughest Row

Raised by an international family of sailors, Lena became the 2021 ILCA 4 French National Champion.

She came to Oakcliff in 2022 to level up her tactical skills at our World Match Racing Tour Academy.

“Main trim became my favorite position, it allowed me to seamlessly transition from physical exertion to strategic thinking, advising the skipper on the next move. It perfectly combines the skipper’s intellect with trimmers’ physical strength.”

other aspects of your sailing—it’s pretty easy to focus on the areas that are not your strengths. From there, it’s easy to turn that into “I’m always so slow” or “My gybes stink.” None of that is fast, not in practice, and definitely not at regattas. How you frame your self-talk matters.

Turn that frown upside down! Reframe your statements: “I’m improving my speed, especially upwind in chop, by practicing today,” or “Gybes are challenging, and I’m doing better at transferring my tiller from hand to hand.” Training your brain to focus on the positive will help you when the going gets rough when you’re racing.

It’s that time of year: Get out on the water for some training. Practice like you play… and then you’ll play like you practice!

About the Author: SpinSheet Small Boat columnist for more than a dozen years, Kim Couranz has earned several national and world titles in Laser Radials (ILCA 6), Snipes, and Lightnings. She has also raced J/22s, J/24s, and Ynglings on an international level.

# Coach Marek Valasek giving tips to Mike Mann and Maddie Schroeheron on practice day.

BRO k ERAGE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS

S&J Yachts, Brokers for Fine Yachts With 10 locations from Maine to Florida, S&J Yachts is one of the largest full-service yacht brokerages on the East Coast. Our extensive reach & marketing helps find top buyers quickly. S&J Yachts has established an outstanding reputation for integrity and service! Our experienced team of brokers is committed to serving both buyers and sellers, ensuring fair practices and complete satisfaction with every deal. Whether sail or power, we’ll help you find the perfect fit! 410.639.2777 info@sjyachts.com www.sjyachts.com

Yacht Brokers of Annapolis Deanna Sansbury developed her love of the water when she and her husband lived aboard their 40’ catamaran, eventually taking a sabbatical to cruise the Islands. Upon returning, she began selling sailboats for a large brokerage in Annapolis, winning the Beneteau Top Gun award for most new sailboats sold in North America. By focusing on providing exceptional customer service and listening closely to her clients’ needs, Deanna is a top pick for buyers and sellers looking for outstanding results. Phone: 410.629.9186, Email: Deanna@YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com

To advertise in the Brokerage and Classified sections, contact beatrice@spinsheet.com

Yacht Brokers of Annapolis An avid boater his whole life, Caleb McCutcheon always knew he wanted a career in the marine industry. He began at Harbor East Marina as a dockhand and crew on charter boats in the Chesapeake Bay. Caleb then took an opportunity to become a deckhand aboard superyachts in the Caribbean. His wide range of experience and skills easily transition over to the sales side, allowing Caleb to provide genuine service to his clients. Phone: 240.675.4844, Email: Caleb@YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com

Yacht View Brokerage, LLC announces our new 8% commission, which may include complimentary Annapolis dockage (for yachts above 100K and up to 80’ in length) and 10% co-brokerage listing commission! We will successfully market your yacht from her current East Coast location or arrange delivery to our secure dockage for yachts from 30’-80’ (Power/Sail). Located 20 minutes rom BWI airport, our listings are easily inspected and demonstrated to prospective buyers. Targeted print advertising & Yachtworld.com MLS internet exposure with wide angle/high resolution photos and video. 30 yrs proven customer service! Call/text Capt. John Kaiser, Jr. @ 443.223.7864. Email your yacht’s details for a full market appraisal to: john@yachtview.com www.yachtview.com

Meet the newest member of the YaZu Yachting Crew! We are delighted to welcome our new broker, Matthew Lambert. Matt is a sailor, so will be concentrating on continuing to grow the sailboat side of the business. He is energetic and enthusiastic, has years of sales experience, years of sailing experience and strongly espouses the relationship-focused approach to sales that is the core of the YaZu Yachting ethos. “I look forward to building lasting relationships here at YaZu Yachting and growing along with the phenomenal team Jonathan and Anne have assembled here.” Contact info for Matt: 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

BOAT SHARING

30’ Bristol Sailboat Partnership on South River Two weekend and five weekdays each month, May - October. Spring / Fall maintenance days. $2,300 Call John: 202.341.4483 / jruthrauff@democraticed.org

SAIL CLUB ANNAPOLIS 32’ Hunter Vision Sloop, fully equipped. Annual dues $900. Daily rate $100/day. Contact: 434.808.3512 or garudabuss@gmail.com

33’ Reynolds 1D ‘05 Ready to race catamaran. This boat is typically one of the first to finish in any race. Fastest Elapsed Time Race Record Governors Cup. $20,000 Financing available. No slip fees. Call 443.691.9587 or hyperships@yahoo.com www.sailingworld.com/sailboats/thereynolds-33-ripping-it-up-at-22-knots

Read boat reviews online at spinsheet.com

Fractional Sailing - VIkO S35 Sail a brand new (2023) VIKO S35 this season. Nicely equipped with air conditioning, etc. Located at Herrington Harbour North. Smaller yachts available. For more information, please call 410.867.7177 or email admin@thesailingacademy.com www.thesailingacademy.com

SAIL

i550 18’ Sportboat Launched in 2015, very lightly used. Main, jib and asymm in good shape. Two keels: daggerboard and bulb. $3,000 trailer included. For more info and photos, please contact timford@nbayracing.com www.nbayracing.com/i550Build.htm

(Osprey) 33’ FBG Bruce Roberts/ Joshua Slocum Spray This beautiful, sturdy Gaff cutter-rigged sloop will take you anywhere. Perfect for cruising couple. Located Oxford Boatyard, “Osprey” is in good shape but needs some exterior TLC. Could be sailing this spring. Owner is very motivated to sell due to health issues. Asking $29,500 OBO. Call Rich for more pics/specs at 267.640.8245 or email captrich49@gmail.com

(Ritual) 1974 Carter 33 Two owners, commissioned for offshore racing, hull 5/10, 1985 FWC engine low hours, 1993 double tapered mast, cruiser ready. $6,500 YPM Lancaster, VA. Jeff 804.690.2214. Inventory and photos, visit www.ritual.piwigo.com

Brokerage & Classified

(Caroline) Skipjack 34’ Original 1960s Built Skipjack. LOA: 28’ on deck, 34’ overall. Cruising yacht, cypress, mahogany, fir construction. Superbly crafted. Sailed the bay for 25 years“the best of my life.” Health forces sale. $15,000 gives you the opportunity to take her back to her glory. In the water near St. Michaels, MD. Brokers Protected. Please call 410.822.3555 or email roowoodeaston@gmail.com

1974 Seafarer 34’ Sloop and Dock

Located at Anchorage Marina, Baltimore MD. $30,000 Please email CovertChannel@yahoo.com or call 240.475.8400. For additional photos and info, please visit: www.bit.ly/42HKQEK

1979 Cal 39 MkII Amazing opportunity, great price! The 1979 CAL 39 MKII is a true racer-cruiser. A Lapworth-designed sailing vessel that’s a dream to sail and good for liveaboard, w/ generous accommodations and a large cockpit. The boat has been wellmaintained and is ready for spring sailing and cruising! Priced at $22,500 for a quick sale. Call or text Rick at 410.279.5772 or email rickstuntz@gmail.com

1988 Bristol 41.1 Aft Cockpit Ready to cruise! Yanmar 66Turbo, abundant upgrades, A/C, Esparheat, Bow Thruster, solar panels, Sea Frost refrigerator, complete enclosure, dingy davits, 2 staterooms/2 heads. Centerboard. $125,000 For more info/ photos, call 717.371.6679 or email d.a.buttorff@gmail.com

(Chardonnay) 42’ Beneteau First Cruiser/Racer ‘81 Frers design. Well-maintained, autopilot, refrigeration, hydraulic vang & backstay. Engine has 365 hours. Cruising & racing sails. 1st in class in Governor’s Cup. 3rd in class at Block Island. Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or Dave@CrusaderYachts.com

www.crusaderyachts.com/boats-forsale/1981-beneteau-first-42annapolis-maryland-9036488

(Majestic) St. Francis 44 MkII 1999 Catamaran For sale by owner. In Saint Martin going to Florida. $275,000 More details and photos are available on the website: www.majesticstfrancis44forsale.com

Bert Jabin Yacht Yard

7350 Edgewood Rd., Annapolis, MD 21403

2015 Tartan 101 33’ Ready to race or cruise. North 3Di sails, carbon mast, rod rigging, carbon retractable bowsprit, proven winner. Asking $139,000 Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

(Don’t Dream It) 2021 Tartan 345 Hull #117 - Offshore live aboard equipped. Stern arch, davits, solar, thruster, furling boom, genset, air con. And tons more! Owner loves - switching to power. Asking $330,000 Call Jeff Jordan 410.956.5534 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2024 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 Amazing Opportunity! Owner had a change in plans after sailing twice. 2 cabins, furling mast, full electronics, bow thruster and more. Asking $240,000 Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2001 Cape Fear 38 Designed by Bruce Marek, xiberger is a successful RacerCruiser w/ significant podium winning results in both ORCi and PHRF. Reduced to $84,900 Call Bill O’Malley 410.703.9058 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

1973 Bristol 40 Classic Yawl. Personal yacht of the owner of a premier Annapolis marina. Extensive refit and upgrades. Low hours on Yanmar diesel; 2022 North Sails; blue Awlgrip hull; varnished teak and mahogany; more! Asking $73,000 Call Rod Rowan 703.813.0460 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

1981 Beneteau First 42 Frers design, cruiser/racer. Well-maintained, autopilot, refrigeration, hydraulic vang & backstay. Repowered w/ low hours, she has a full complement of cruising and racing sails. $79,000 Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

1983 Bristol 45.5 On the northern Chesapeake (low salinity!) since 1997. Maintained by M-Yacht. Low hours on diesel; shoal draft; electric mainsail furling; stunning navy blue hull; AC/ heat; genset; 2024 bimini; more! Asking $125,000 Call Rod Rowan 703.813.0460 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2001 Beneteau 473 2 cabin, 2 head, bow thruster, generator, AC, ENDLESS UPGRADES and Well-Maintained! Asking $215,000 Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2010 Jeanneau 53 3-4 stateroom layout including Captain’s Quarters, AC, Genset, Code Zero, Bow Thruster and More! Asking $365,000 Rod Rowan 703.813.0460 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2019 Royal Cape Catamaran 530 Superb build quality and offshore capability is just the beginning of this luxury equipped catamaran. Limited time opportunity, contact immediately for showing! Asking $995,000 Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2020 Jeanneau Yachts 54 Lightly used, professionally maintained and ready to cruise. Owner’s plans have changed, and he is switching to power. Reduced to $675,000 Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2021 CNB 66 Well-equipped for offshore/distance cruising comfort. 4 cabins, 4 heads w/ Captain/Crew cabin in bow. Reduced $2,340,000 Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

(Nauti Paws) 35’ O’Day ‘88 $32,000 Fletcher C. Bauman 410.263.2000 fletcher@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Confidante) 36’ Vancouver ‘82

Jim Edwards 252.474.5000 jedwards @curtisstokes.net

(Felix) 37’ Custom Catboat ‘14

Lars Bergstrom 910.899.7941 lars@curtisstokes.net

(TaxSea)

To find more used boats, visit spinsheet.com

$60,000

www.curtisstokes.net

$199,500

www.curtisstokes.net

37’ Hunter ‘91 $58,500 Jim Edwards 252.474.6000 jedwards @curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Native) 38’ Herreshoff ‘70

$29,900 Lin Earley 757.672.2778 lin@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Pride) 40’ Tartan ‘85 $85,000 Lars Bergstrom 910.899.7941 lars@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Siddhartha)

(Quetzalcoatl)

jason@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Aslan)

(Resilience)

7330 Edgewood Road, Suite 1 Annapolis, MD 21403

2012 J Boats J/95 This J/95 is the perfect day sailor and singlehanded or doublehanded cruiser. Because of her keel-up shoal draft, you can sail into inlets and anchorages rarely visited. Contact Anthony Flake at 443.994.4328 or Anthony@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

2003 J Boats J/109 A proven winner. Perfect for racer or weekend warrior. All sails and equipment ready to start racing immediately. Contact Bob Oberg at 410.320.3385 or Bob@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

2016 Hanse 415 Very nice performance cruiser, easily sailed shorthanded and comfortable for extended stays onboard. Contact Chris Beardsley at 315.447.1251 or Chris@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

(Messmee)

Leave 10% Brokerage Fees in Your Wake Jay Porterfield • Knot 10 Sail (410) 977-9460 • jay@knot10.com

2001 Lagoon 380 3-stateroom owner version. Generator, AC/heat. Call Jay 410.977.9460 or jay@knot10.com www.knot10.com

43’ Jouet 1280 Most well-designed motor sailor I have ever seen! Perfect condition. This is a must see! Visit Knot10.com and look at her! Call Jay 410.977.9460 or jay@knot10.com www.knot10.com

2005 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 54 DS

Captain’s layout. Full B&G Yacht Electronics. Call Jay 410.977.9460 or jay@knot10.com www.knot10.com

To find more used boats, visit spinsheet.com

2001 J Boats J/42 Don’t give up performance to go cruising. Well equipped w/ carbon mast and shoal draft keel great for cruising and racing performance. Contact Bob Oberg at 410.320.3385 or Bob@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

2015 Beneteau America Oceanis 45 Heavily upgraded and rigged for long-distance cruising incl. Custom KATO Arch, watermaker, generator and dinghy. Contact Bob Oberg at 410.320.3385 or Bob@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

2016 Bavaria Cruiser 46 Outfitted for cruising, large cockpit, spacious salon, generator and fully battened main and roller furling genoa. Contact Chris Beardsley at 8315.447.1251 or Chris@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

2022 Hanse 460 Great opportunity to own a lightly used world class cruising yacht. Turk key at a fraction of the cost to build new. Contact Grady Byus at 410.533.9879 or Grady@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

2022 Hanse 460 Rare opportunity jump in line on a boat that has over a year wait. Commissioned and ready for the next owner. Contact Jack McGuire at 401.290.7066 or Jack@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

1985 Pearson 530 Rare opportunity for an excellent blue water cruise as the only Pearson 530 build w/ a sloop/ cutter rig. Several upgrades and meticulous maintenance. Contact Chris Beardsley at 315.447.1251 or Chris@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

2019 Hanse 588 Combination of sporty, dynamic agility and highly elegant aesthetics. Tons of upgrades. Contact Jack McGuire at 401.290.7066 or Jack@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

Brokers for Fine Yachts Brokers for Fine Yachts

Annapolis, MD 410-571-3605

Rock Hall, MD 410-639-2777

Deltaville, VA 804-776-0604

Charleston, SC 843-872-8080

Palmetto, FL 941-212-6121

www.SJYACHTS.com

Island Packet Yachts 27’-52’ List your Island Packet w/ the Experts! S&J Yachts is the World leader in selling IPs. No team knows these boats better! We have buyers looking now for these excellent cruising yachts. Call S&J Yachts now for a free market evaluation. 410.639.2777

www.sjyachts.com

Bavaria Yachts Quality Performance Style. Enjoy the expertise of German engineering. C42 & C45 In Stock Now. On order for Spring 2024 deliveryC38, C46,

of only two ever built. Modern electricals, lavish cabin, upgraded sails, AIS. Ideal for cruising, liveaboard. Spacious, efficient, unique. $142,000 S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

(Chaucer Blue) 41’ Morgan ‘77 $45,000 Lars Bergstrom 910.899.7941 lars@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

41’ Hunter H41 Deck Salon ‘08 $142,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

42’ Beneteau Oceanis 423 ‘04 $135,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

45’ Bruce Roberts ‘98 $110,000 Jason Hinsch 410.507.1259

48’ Hans Christian ‘02 $400,000 Jim Edwards 252.474.5000 jedwards @curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

48’ Beneteau Oceanis ‘14

Sabre 402 2001

looks,

2023 Bavaria C42 Award

www.sjyachts.com

2013

40 Stunning

2019 Blue

Lightly used,

new condition & ready for a new owner & new adventures. Solar, arch, A/C, & shoal draft keel make it ideal for fast cruising just about anywhere! $499,900 Palmetto, FL. S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

characteristics, well thought-out interior plan, fine craftsmanship, first rate equipment, and the very best of care. Wellmaintained and ready for your summer enjoyment. $199,900 Contact S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

41’ Island Packet SP Cruiser ‘08

Switching from sail to power? Sit inside in comfort & trim all sails at the push of a button. Enjoy sailing or power like a displacement trawler. Large centerline berth. Spacious galley. Shoal draft. $249,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

2012 Southerly 42 JUST SOLD

Amazing shoal draft blue water cruiser. Thinking of selling your Southerly or looking for a shoal draft boat? Contact the experts at S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

Winning! Modern hull shape provides increased stability, performance & space below deck. 3 cabin/2 head w/ attractive mahogany interior. ICW rig, furling mainsail, B&G electronics, Autopilot, Bow thruster, A/C, Inverter & more… S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

Catalina Morgan 440 2005 Superb galley-up Deck Salon shoal draft cruiser, great views & all the options; 3 electric winches, generator, bow thruster, laundry/workshop… great 2 cabin accommodations & centerline fwd berth. $229,000 S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

Mason 44 Aft CC ’91 Serious offshore sailing vessel; well equipped, capable & ready to go. 2 Cabin/1 head, extensive storage, beautiful interior teak joinery, & 6’10” headroom throughout. $162,500 S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

2019 Bavaria C45 Fully equipped for cruising, in turn-key condition w/ several notable upgrades, including solar panels,

2008 Island Packet 465 Located in St. Petersburg, FL – Super clean, center cockpit cruiser, loaded w/ equipment! 2021 electronics, water maker, generator, arch/davits, thruster, and plenty of space/storage. $435,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

Southerly 57 ‘10 Luxurious Bluewater Performance Cruiser! Raised salon w/ panoramic views. 3cabin/2head. Great cockpit for entertaining. Variable swing keel from 3’ 6” to 10’ 6” at the push of a button. New 150Hp Yanmar engine & complete bottom job. $899,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080

www.sjyachts.com

Little Harbor Frans Maas 60 ’72 Immaculate offshore cruising yacht. 3 cabins, 3 heads, 4 engines, bow thruster - Go anywhere in safety & comfort. In-mast furling mainsail, roller furling genoa, & stack-pack mizzen. $390,000 S&J Yachts 410.639.2777

www.sjyachts.com

Catalina 355 ‘11 Nicely equipped, lightly used - below 900 engine hours. Shallow draft (4’ 9”), aluminum arch, inmast furling, electric anchor windlass, 1500-watt inverter, heat/air conditioning and more! $170,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080

Marlow-Hunter

freshly painted blue hull, new bottom paint, hard bimini, 760 engine hours, bow thruster, clean interior, two cabin layout. Beautifully kept boat! $229,000 Charleston, SC. S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

Jacket 40

nearly

Good

wonderful sailing

lithium batteries, an arch/ davits, dinghy/outboard, custom hardtop bimini w/ lights, enclosure panels, speakers, and screens. $550,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

1980 Dick Carter 50 Luna is a center cockpit, schooner rigged, fifty foot fiberglass sailboat w/ a variable draft swing keel controlled by a hydraulic ram. The vessel was designed by Dick Carter (designed several Southerly Yachts) and originally constructed to RINA standards by Lu Crestitalia S.p.A in Ameglia, La Spezia, Italy. $150,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

Anne: 804-567-0092 | Jon: 804-567-0093 www.yazuyachting.com

31’

Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

38’ Island Packet 38 ’88 Chainplates and holding tank replaced, many recent updates. Solar, Wind Generator, anchor chain & washdown 2020, standing rigging 2015; bow roller, electric windlass & autopilot 2018; 9’ dinghy. Loads more! $117,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

39’ Amel Sharki ’80 Amel DNA, Ketch rig, 2 cabin 1 head, hard dodger. Electric forestay furler. New standing rigging 2021, Victron inverter 2021, Solar panels, Lombardini Engine w/ 2400 hours. $54,750 Deltaville, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

40’ Alubat Ovni 385 ’01 Rare offering. Cruising ready - Aluminum, Lifting keel, Kick-up rudder, Arch, Solar, Autopilot, Webasto heater, Newly painted decks, Dodger 2023,

$175,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 or jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

41’

Read boat reviews online at spinsheet.com

Anne & Jon Hutchings

17218 General Puller Hwy, Deltaville, VA

Catalina 310 ’02 Perfect Bay boat. V-berth & large aft berth. Genoa (2022), Mainsail (+/-2015), Stormsail, Electric Windlass, Autopilot, Universal 25Hp Engine, Refrigeration, Bimini. $59,500 Urbanna, VA.

cutter rig, full enclosure, dinghy & outboard.

Catalina 400 Mk II ’01 Perfect example of a spacious and comfortable performance cruiser. Comfort and elbow room above and below deck w/ plenty of entertainment space. Reverse cycle air conditioning, 2000W inverter, (3) 225W solar panels. $115,000 Deltaville, VA. Contact Matt Lambert 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

42’ Beneteau 423 ’07 A Beneteau Best Seller! Two cabin, two New Autopilot, Hard dodger, Bimini, Inmast furling, New bottom paint/hull wax 2024. $155,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 or jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

MAR k ETPLACE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS

To advertise in the Brokerage and Classified sections, contact beatrice@spinsheet.com

acceSSorieS | art | attorneYS | BooKS | BUSineSS opportUnitieS | captainS | charterS | creW | DeliVerieS electronicS | eQUipment | Finance | help WanteD | inSUrance | marine enGineS | marine SerViceS | proDUctS real eState | riGGinG

ART

Seaside Treasures Shop for nautical decor, beach decor, and more for your lake cottage or beach home! A family run business since 2001. Use coupon “SPINSHEET10” for 10% off! ContactUs@SeasideTreasures.com www.SeasideTreasures.com

CREW

Offshore Passage Opportunities Your Offshore Sailing Network. Celebrating twenty years helping sailors sail offshore for free. Learn by doing. Gain Quality Sea Time! Call 800.4.PASSAGe (800.472.7724). Keep the Dream Alive for the Price of a Good Winch Handle! Since 1993. admin@sailopo.com www.sailopo.com

DELIVERIES

Endurance Yacht Deliveries Local and long distance. Twenty-five years of experience with clean insurance approved resume. Power and sail. Please call Simon Edwards 410.212.9579 or email stredwards@gmail.com www.enduranceyachtdeliveries.com

EQUIPMENT

Race Master Tactical Compass (Tack Tick) Lightly used, excellent condition – sold boat, bought for $800, asking $550 For more info, please text 410.504.4922

EQUIPMENT

H ELP WANTED

Dock Hand/Dock Staff FT & PT April-October. $15 hourly pay plus tips $$ to tie-up boats located at a busy dock bar location in Annapolis. Boating knowledge is a plus. 410.263.1981 Download application at www.schoonerwoodwind.com/employment

Get Paid to Sail! The Woodwind schooners are hiring crew/deckhands. Some sailing knowledge is necessary. Fun people and guests - avg. $27/hour, and lots of great sea time. FT & PT. 410.263.1981. Download application at www.schoonerwoodwind.com/employment

H ELP WANTED

Marine Canvas Seamstress Wanted Cover Loft in Annapolis is hiring a seamstress for sewing marine canvas. Pay based on experience. Email resume to info@coverloft.com and join our team! www.coverloft.com

Marine Electronics Sales Are you passionate about marine electronics and enjoy helping customers find the perfect solution? BOE Marine is looking for a motivated and knowledgeable individual to join our sales team. Responsibilities: assist customers in selecting and purchasing marine electronics products, provide expert advice/recommendations, and contribute to the overall success of our sales department. Commission based position. To apply, email resume to jobs@BOEmarine.com www.boemarine.com/careers

Marine Technician BOE Marine is seeking a skilled and dedicated Marine Technician to join our team. Responsibilities: diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining a variety of marine equipment and systems. Experience in marine mechanics, electrical systems, and engine diagnostics is preferred. If you have a passion for the marine industry and enjoy working w/ boats and marine equipment, we want to hear from you! To apply, email resume to jobs@BOEmarine.com www.boemarine.com/careers

Seeking P/T Magazine Delivery Drivers for threeday-a-month magazine distribution routes in Maryland. Compensation based upon quantity of stops. Must have a valid driver’s license in good standing, reliable vehicle, and be able to lift up to 25 lbs. For more info, call 410.216.9309 or email info@spinsheet.com

Service Sailmaker Wanted North Sails Annapolis is hiring a full-time Service Sailmaker. Duties include all aspects of sail repair, maintenance and alterations, pickups, deliveries, and installations. Attention to detail and a passion for quality required. Join the world’s leading sailmaker providing the best sails and the best service. Sailing, sailmaking, and/or canvas experience preferred. Pay commensurate with experience + full benefits. To apply, please send your resume to annapolis@northsails.com

The Eastport Yacht Club (EYC) is hiring Lead and Assistant Sailing Instructors for the 2024 Summer Program. Please send your cover letter and resume to the Waterfront Manager at waterfront@eastportyc.org

Wanted: Marine Woodworker Epoxy/fiberglass, all around yacht/boat technician. Motivated for future benefits. Contact: Joe Reid, Mast and Mallet Woodworks, 410.798.9510 or mastandmallet@verizon.net

Yacht Sales - Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. is hiring new salespeople for our Chesapeake area operation. Candidates must be honest, ethical and have boating experience. This is a commission only position. Contact Curtis Stokes at 410.919.4900 or curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

30’-50’ Deepwater Slips for Sale & Rent Flag Harbor Condo Marina on western shore of Chesapeake in St. Leonard, MD. Slip sales & rentals 410.586.0070/ fhca@flagharbor.com. Storage & Repairs 410.586.1915/ flagboatyard@gmail.com www.flagharbor.com

Galesville – West River Deep Water Slips with water and electricity, 20 to 40 feet. $1,200 to $3,500 per year. 410.212.4867

Sailor’s Wharf Marina on Mill Creek off White Hall Bay, 20-to-45-foot slips with water & 30-amp electric. 1651 Orchard Beach Road, Annapolis, MD 21409. For more information, please call 443.336.3615 or email sailorswharfmarina@gmail.com

Top Award

AkzoNobel’s innovative ‘That Feeling’ influencer campaign, celebrating the yachting and boating lifestyle, has landed a top prize in the Neptune Awards, organized by the Marine Marketers of America. AkzoNobel took first place in the Influencer Marketing category for its yearlong campaign featuring some of the boating world’s leading online personalities. ‘That Feeling’ featured contributions from Lisa Blair, Martine Grael, Kahena Kunzaall, Monique Richter, Riley Whitelum, Elayna Carausu, Jason Marshall, Janaye MacDonald, Curtis Jazwiecki, Kate Gladieux, and Kate Sawyer. These high-profile industry influencers all celebrated the feeling of being on the water. From the splash of the waves to the smell of sunny days, the perfect day out on the water is why people fall in love with boating, and it’s ‘That Feeling’ the campaign aimed to capture. That feeling paired with the pride that comes with maintaining their boats played out on various channels and across four peaks in the calendar year, in different parts of the globe. Matt Anzardo, global marketing segment manager for AkzoNobel’s Yacht team, says: “This ambitious piece of brand storytelling perfectly captured the emotions associated with the moments of being a boat owner as well as the global reach of our brand as the sector leaders in the yacht coatings industry.” The Neptune Awards judging panel said: “AkzoNobel has done a wonderful job of harnessing the power of respected, leading influencers to share the pride and passion of ‘That Feeling’ of being on the water. It envelopes an emotional connection to the water and boating while leveraging the entertainers of the industry. Very well done!” akzonobel.com/en

Accolade

AkzoNobel’s Awlgrip yacht coatings is the first topcoat finish to be verified as a Sustainable Solution by the Water Revolution Foundation (WRF). Awlgrip HDT has been added to the WRF’s Database of Sustainable Solutions to enable builders and applicators to find the most environmentally conscious products for superyachts. WRF is a not-for-profit organization established in 2018 with the goal of driving sustainability and change in the superyacht industry through collaboration and innovation, leading the way towards neutralizing its ecological footprint and preserving the world’s oceans. The Awlgrip topcoat helps to deliver on the goal of reducing the environmental impact of solutions, combining the best of performance and sustainable attributes to elevate builders’ creations. It has reduced solvent in its formulation and has lower VOC when compared to a standard polyurethane topcoat, being VOC compliant considering even the most stringent legislations. Awlgrip HDT was given the Sustainable Solution stamp of approval by WRF after a rigorous analysis into the product’s life cycle, including the evaluation of the resources used in sourcing raw materials, manufacturing, and applying the product, alongside the waste generation, airborne emissions, and longevity of the topcoat.

Matthew Anzardo, global yacht segment manager at AkzoNobel’s Yacht Coatings, said: “We are extremely proud to make history with having the first topcoat to be verified on the WRF’s Database of Sustainable Solutions. Across our brands and business, we share the same goal of reducing the environmental impact of coatings solutions through collaboration and innovation, combining the best of performance and sustainability. WRF’s recognition and support of our product is testament to our innovation and commitment to more sustainable yachting.” awlgrip.com

Marina Updates

Parish Creek Landing Marina in Shady Side, MD, shares several updates, including the announcement of a new general manager: Chris Hylton. “I’m very excited for this opportunity to manage Parish Creek Landing!” says Hylton. “I have worked at Chesapeake Yacht Club in Shady Side for the last 12 years. I went to college at St. Mary’s College of Maryland where I got my bachelor’s in economics and public policy, with a minor in political science. I’ve been around the water all my life and grew up in Shady Side. I’ve worked on countless cars, trucks, boats, etc. with my dad, so don’t be surprised if you all see me working with the guys all season long. I’m always around and available so feel free to stop in the office or stop me in the yard if you ever want to chat. I’m going to do everything I can to get to know all of you and make this the best experience we can here!”

Parish Creek has also hired Aaron Catterton and Jeff Henderson. Catterton has experience as a diesel mechanic as well as operating heavy equipment and has lived locally in the Deale/Shady Side area all his life. Catterton and Hylton have been working hard on servicing all the marina’s equipment and getting it ready for this spring season. Henderson has been hired as a part-time mechanic. He has over 40 years of auto mechanic experience as well as servicing boats and has experience running heavy equipment as well. He too lives in Shady Side. When he’s not at the marina, you will likely find him running the family charter fishing boat, Tenacious, or in the woods hunting. parishcreeklanding.com

Chesapeake Classic

Sail Baltimore

Welcoming Tall Ships From Around the World Since 1975

When I asked Nan Nawrocki, executive director of Sail Baltimore, how many people visited the four-masted Peruvian Navy Barque aka BAP Union in March, I figured she’d say several hundred. There were 10 times more visitors than that.

“The Peruvians were over the top!” She says, “There were lines on Saturday (March 6) until 6 p.m. in the pouring down rain. We had 5000 visitors in four days and a couple of those days had limited visiting hours.”

The non-profit Sail Baltimore has been welcoming tall ships, military ships, and other vessels of note since 1975 in preparation for the bicentennial celebrations. They did a great job and continued to bring ships to the city for many years. Nawrocki was on the board from 1995 to 2021 when she became executive director. As we spoke, she had to hop off the line briefly as she was planning logistics for the welcome ceremony of the Columbian Barque Gloria the next day (March 15).

Through a longtime partnership with the City of Baltimore and recruiting efforts, such as hosting events and speaking at embassies, visiting ships make their way to the Inner Harbor for sailors and other ship enthusiasts to enjoy.

port to Washington, DC. It’s very convenient, close to embassies, and close to the airport. There are a lot of amenities that come with being in Baltimore.”

When an international ship sails into the port, “We work with them with lo-

with pilots, tug companies, and other vendors we have had relationships with for so many years.”

When a ship arrives, Nawrocki says, “We put together a welcome ceremony and bring someone from the governor’s office, mayor’s office, Navy, US Coast Guard, harbor police, and local community participants. There’s a semi-formal welcome ceremony, where we present the captain with a small gift, and most of the time there’s a lunch—it’s good for building community.”

Nawrocki says, “We are very fortunate that Baltimore is the closest deep-water

gistics and hospitality, especially the tall ships (the prima donnas, everyone wants to come see them!). Do they need fenders or line handlers? Sometimes there’s an agent; we give them local knowledge. We give them a list of preferred vendors. It’s a great service for the ship. We work

Among the upcoming events and ship visits are: USAC Charles P Gross (April 9 -18); USCGC Calhoun Commissioning Event (April 17-22); Cisne Branco, threemasted clipper from Brazil (April 26-May 2); Attaché Day and Sail250 Presentation (May 9); and the 250-foot, threemasted Barque Guayas from Ecuador (May 20-24).

Although Sail Baltimore does not often need volunteers, they will need some extra hands for Maryland Fleet Week June 12-18. Stay tuned for the website signup.

For the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration in 2026, Sail Baltimore hopes to host a dozen tall ships, so there’s much to be excited about. To learn more, visit sailbaltimore.org. Go to the Sail Baltimore Facebook page for the most current visiting ship information, as sometimes it changes. ~MW

# ARC Gloria, a three-masted bark and official flagship of the Colombian Navy in Baltimore in mid-March.

Photo by Mark Hergan/ Deadrise Marine Photography

LET’S SAIL

Dreaming about a cruising adventure or big race for this season? Quantum Sails is here to help elevate your sailing experience and find the right solution for your unique needs. Scan the QR code to schedule service or to contact a representative for assistance with new sails.