SpinSheet Magazine June 2024

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Annapolis’ only sailing school that offers instruction on the ASA First 22 designed by Beneteau. Located at Horn Point Marina in Annapolis, sign up for a class today by scanning the QR code.

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!

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36

Stories of the Century

What aspiring SpinSheet Century Club members are up to this spring. presented by bacon sails and Marine supplies

41

The Plan Is To Race Her… Maybe

A returning sailor rehabs an old Day Sailer and contemplates testing his skills on the racecourse.

By Mike Pitchford

45

See the Bay: Hampton Festivities

Sailors head to Hampton in June for sailboat racing and many more lively summer festivities. By Staff presented by argo

49

Bluewater Dreaming: Reflections on 101 Days at Sea, to Maine and Back

A New England bucket-list dream come true: preparations, highlights, and surprises along the way. By Captain Cheryl Duvall presented by M yacht services

54

Offshore Series 3: Passagemaking With Family

Sailing as a family requires careful consideration of the smaller crew to prevent mutiny. By Cindy Wallach presented by us spars

73

Helly Hansen Sailing World Series and More Spring Racing Fun

Annapolis Sailors Dominate HHSW, Charleston Race Week, Southern Bay Race Week, Annapolis YC Spring Race to Oxford, and more racing news. presented by Mount gay ruM

Ted Morgan took this month’s cover photo at the 2023 Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta. This year’s edition unfolds June 15 out of Eastport Yacht Club.

# Photo by SpinSheet

# Photo by Capt. Cheryl Duvall

# Photo by Will Keyworth

Scene

Photo by David Sites

“Shelley

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Mary Iliff Ewenson, mary@spinsheet.com

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Molly Winans, molly@spinsheet.com

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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.

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Sailing Friends Matter

By Molly Winans

If I told you that sailing more this summer would improve your health and possibly extend your life, would you believe me? I think most sailors would. How could more time outdoors in the sunshine, relaxing, and enjoying yourself not be healthy? That would have been my reasoning until just recently. My perspective has widened.

Most sailors I know do not sail solo. They rely on crew. Even most of the short-handed or solo sailors I know join clubs of like-minded sailors or seek out their company to compare boat setups and talk sailing. According to science, this matters.

Last month, I finished a book called “The Good Life: Lessons From the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness” by Robert Waldinger, MD, and Marc Schulz, PhD. Eighty years of studying first a group of young men through their lives and expanding the study to include women and the next generations has produced substantial proof that having quality relationships helps people thrive and live longer. The relationships can be with family, friends, coworkers, fellow volunteers, neighbors, anyone you connect with, including your slipmates and crew.

The lessons in this book were fresh in mind as I stood at our Annapolis Crew Party on April 28 with a few hundred potential friends, busily meeting each other, taking pictures of contact information on our boat board, and forging future sailing partnerships (see page 34). All the time

I hear from skippers how through our parties or online crew finder they’ve found excellent crew —crew who’ve now become like family.

The lessons of “The Good Life” resurfaced as I interviewed racing sailors who’d won their classes at the Helly Hansen Sailing World Series Annapolis in May (see page 66). Overall regatta winner Cate Muller-Terhune noted “…we had so much fun hanging out with our friends.”

Sarah Alexander, who was the top scoring J/80 sailor, said, “When I look back on this regatta, I’ll remember how much

Patriot Punch

1 Tbsp Sugar

3 oz. Mount Gay Navy Strength Rum

.5 oz. Freshly Squeezed Grapefruit Juice

.5 oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

.5 oz. Freshly Squeezed Lemon or Lime Juice

1 Sprig of Fresh Rosemary and/or Thyme

Place all in a shaker filled with ice (the ice will bruise the herbs to bring out the oils). Pour over tumbler filled with ice. Top with club soda if you want a lighter version. Garnish with mango slice.

fun I had with the crew. I couldn’t have asked for better people to sail with!”

Ray Wulff’s J/105 Patriot team wasn’t content to just win their class. He said, “We went after the Mount Gay Rum Cocktail Contest with a vengeance and laughter.” They won!

If you take “The Good Life” to heart, these sailors aren’t just winning sailboat races. They’re winning at life: those who came to our parties, those who are actively seeking boats to sail on and have the guts to meet new people, those heading to the tent party to spend time with old and new friends, those who took the party contest as seriously as the sailing—yes! This is how it’s done. Go to the party. It’s time well spent.

If you missed our parties and the regatta, there’s a whole summer ahead of you to gather on boats and connect with sailing friends and family or to make new ones. Good friends, good health, good sailing.

Thanks to Ray’s Patriot team for sharing their winning Mount Gay Rum cocktail, Patriot Punch. Docktails, anyone?

# Team Patriot won the Mount Gay Rum Cocktail Contest at the Helly Hansen Sailing World Series. Photo by SpinSheet

navigating peace of mind

Unpredictable waters

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.

Navigational exibility

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.

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

learn more.

I

Wonderful Memories

n reference to the May 2024 Editor’s Note, “Their Home Bridge” (page 14):

I picked up the May issue today—the first in a long time. Back story: my husband and I sailed our Bay for over 40 years. Coming home after a long offshore trip, our first view down-Bay was the Greenbury Point towers. The second and best view was the Bay Bridge, our home bridge, as we called it. I lost my husband in 2022. Your article brought tears and a flood of wonderful memories. Thank you.

Eileen Mowle

Rescuing Horseshoe Crabs

From a reader who rescues horseshoe crabs in reference to Maria Bellos Fisher’s article, “Rescuing Stranded Horseshoe Crabs in the Chesapeake Bay” (page 20, May issue):

Your article is so timely. They have arrived! These two females were wedged upside down in the spin cycle at 36 Atlantic Boulevard on North Beach on May 3. Thanks for your help raising awareness!

Cathy Foutz

Send your questions, comments and stories to editor@spinsheet.com

COPPERCOAT

More Daylight, More Sailing

Round up your crew and celebrate the Summer Sailstice

Thursday, June 20, the first day of summer, will offer us more than 15 hours of daylight, meaning you’ve got a lot of time before nightfall to get out on the water and go sailing. Join other sailors around the country (and beyond!) by registering and participating in Summer Sailstice, the annual global celebration of all things sailing. This year it unfolds on June 22.

Founded in 2001 by John Arndt, the Summer Sailstice is held each year on the Saturday closest to the summer solstice. The movement has grown from a couple of hundred boats that signed up in the first year to almost 5000 boats in more recent years—and that’s just boats. The number of sailors who participate annually is estimated at almost 19,000.

Registration is free and qualifies you for a chance to win prizes. Among the

good stuff you may win are a weather routing forecasting package valued at more than $1000, a Weems & Plath OGM Series LED KIS light valued at $220, and SunPower flexible solar panels valued at $400. There are also contests for the biggest raftup and the best photo and video.

Sailors from 40 countries and 50 states had registered at print time.

From the Chesapeake, registrants include: the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club; The Sailing Club, Inc.; Catalina 22 Fleet 10 cruisers; and sailors from the Colonial Beach, VA, area. We anticipate that many more Baybased individuals and clubs will sign up as the date approaches.

What kind of sailing counts? All kinds: racing around the buoys, distance racing, long-distance cruising, a simple

Century Club Bonus Points!!!

sunset sail, gunkholing, rafting up with buddy boats, a short day sail… it all counts.

If you don’t own a boat, don’t despair. Beyond hopping aboard a friend’s boat, you could check out charter opportunities (see SpinSheet’s Charter Directory at spinsheet.com/find-acharter) or join a public sail on a big boat such as the schooner Woodwind in Annapolis, the tall ship Providence in Alexandria, VA, or the schooner Alliance II in Yorktown, VA, all of which have public sails scheduled for June 22.

If you do go sailing on June 22 and are registered for Summer Sailstice, snap a photo. Social media posts are encouraged with the hashtag #RaiseYourSails. SpinSheet welcomes your photos too. Send them to beth@spinsheet.com. Register at summersailstice.com

Hey, Century Club participants. Again this year SpinSheet will offer two days of credit for those who get out sailing for the Summer Sailstice. To earn the extra credit day, you must sail on June 22 and register at summersailstice.com. Good luck!

# In Annapolis the sun will set at 8:35 p.m. on June 22.

Photo by Ashley Love

New Chesapeake Map Released

65 Historically Black Beaches and Other Places of Historical Significance

Anew digital story map chronicles 65 historically Black beaches and other places of Black historical significance in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including portions of New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation (BOCF) and Chesapeake Conservancy partnered on the study to empower efforts to conserve such places and ensure that the stories of the Chesapeake’s Black history are told.

The story map highlights places spanning from the landing of the first enslaved Africans in Englishoccupied North America to the creation of Black entertainment venues during the time of Jim Crow.

“It’s so important that we continue to do the hard work of ensuring that the story of the Chesapeake is told through ebony eyes,” said BOCF president and founder Vince Legget.

“Rescuing African American historical sites is so important today. There are efforts currently underway to erase or

the Choptank and Nanticoke,” continued Leggett.

“Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation’s work has become a national case study for heritage preservation and the application of traditional and local ecological histories. We are equally sensitive to the sea level rise, climate change, and the effects of environmental hazards. Many of the sites identified in this study are situated on the water’s edge, and our elders, truth-tellers, and griots are disappearing at a rate far surpassing vanishing shoreline.”

Extensive research was conducted via online resources such as newspapers, blogs, state web pages, and the Negro Motorist Green Book. Locations are either beaches, parks, or supporting infrastructures that have significance and are related to nearby waterways. Chesapeake Conservancy and BOCF acknowledge that the list is not complete and imagine there are even more beaches that are significant to Black history in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Rminimize the teaching of true African American history. Our work allows us to document these sacred spaces and places and tell a more complete story from authentic venues. The Chesapeake Bay watershed is intrinsically linked to the early beginning of our nascent nation, particularly nestled between the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers on the western shore and the ancient rivers of

“After partnering with Blacks of the Chesapeake and others to conserve the historically Black Elktonia Beach for a public park in Annapolis, we knew we couldn’t stop there,” said Chesapeake Conservancy executive vice president Mark Conway. “There are so many other places in the Chesapeake that are significant to Black history. Some are painful reminders of the dark days of enslavement, while others are more joyous stories of recreation, entertainment, and culture. All of these stories need to be told. We hope the study will lead to other Black history and conservation success stories.”

Find the interactive story map at chesapeakeconservancy.org; click to “special conservation projects.”

Chesapeake DolphinWatch Is Back

esearchers at the University ofMaryland Center for Environmental Science’s (UMCES) Chesapeake Biological Laboratory launched the Chesapeake DolphinWatch App in 2017 to get real-time reports of dolphin sightings on the largest estuary in the United States. Since then, scientists have received more than 7000 reports of dolphin sightings—submitted by over 14,600 registered app users—to help track the patterns of dolphin visits to the Bay. Nearly 1500 sightings were reported last year alone.

UMCES Professor Tom Miller, who now leads the program created by Helen Bailey, says, “Chesapeake DolphinWatch uses underwater microphones called hydrophones to listen for dolphin sounds and relies on citizen scientists to report their

sightings of dolphins when they are out on the water.”

The Chesapeake DolphinWatch app was created to allow people who are already enjoying the Chesapeake Bay to report sightings of dolphins, including the time, date, GPS location, number of animals observed, and pictures and video of the animals throughout the Bay, creating an unprecedented observation network.

“Not only can users see their sightings, but they can also see the sightings of other users,” said Miller. “This means that if you are looking for dolphins, Chesapeake DolphinWatch can guide you to where they were last seen near your location. However, it is important that you keep a safe and respectful dis-

tance from these charismatic animals.”

Visit umces.edu/dolphinwatch for details.

# Dolphins off Annapolis. Photo by David Sites

Join the Floatilla!

Join Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore for the annual Baltimore Floatilla on Saturday, June 8. This year’s theme is Maryland Strong, and the event will raise money for both Waterfront Partnership’s Healthy Harbor Initiative and the Maryland Tough Baltimore Strong relief fund for those impacted by the collapse of the Key Bridge.

The floatilla will take a scenic fivemile roundtrip paddle from Canton Waterfront Park to the Inner Harbor. Once in the Inner Harbor, you will enjoy a live performance of your favorite tunes by Cara Kelly & the Tell Tale as they rock out while floating onboard Baltimore’s own Mr. Trash Wheel. Show off your love for all things Maryland by decking yourself and your boat out in your favorite Maryland gear.

Tickets to the event are $45 and include a T-shirt and boxed lunch. Participants must be aged 13 years or older, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Rental equipment (single and double kayaks and SUPs) and on-water safety will

be provided by Ultimate Watersports. Rentals are limited.

Everyone is offered the opportunity to fundraise, which may be done as an individual or as part of a team. The top three individual and team fundraisers will be recognized at the event. Register at classy.org/event/floatilla/e578188

This is a rain or shine event; however, it will be cancelled by 6 a.m. on the morning of the event if there is a small craft advisory or if other weather events, such as lightning, make paddling unsafe.

Escape, Relax, and Enjoy at Chesapeake Yacht Club! Nestled on the West River in Shady Side, MD, your oasis awaits with:

™ New state-of-the-art floating docks

™ River view pool, clubhouse and restaurant

™ Family and pet friendly facilities

™ Boating and non-boating memberships

™ And more!

410.867.1500 cheseapeakeyachtclub.org membership@chesapeakeyachtclub.org

The Baltimore Floatilla is organized by Waterfront Partnership to raise awareness about paddling in Baltimore Harbor. The event takes place every June and involves kayakers, rowers, and stand-up paddlers. The purpose of the event is to advocate for better recreational water access and to highlight environmental issues on the waterfront. The event is co-hosted by Waterfront Partnership, Ultimate Watersports, and Baltimore City Recreation and Parks. Volunteers are needed. Email chelsea@ waterfrontpartnership.org for information. Learn more at waterfrontpartnership.org.

# Photo courtesy of Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore

New Rescue Boat for Anne Arundel County

The Anne Arundel County Fire Department has a new addition to its maritime fleet: AACoFD, Boat 8.

On April 25, Annapolis Neck Fire Station – Station 8 put into service a 26-foot Munson center-console aluminum hull fire/dive boat. Boat 8 (BT8) is the first of three new boats slated to go into service this year for the department. BT8 is cutting-edge and will bolster the department’s capability to respond to and mitigate emergencies on the waterways in Anne Arundel County.

This new vessel, designed for dive rescue operations, is equipped with twin 150-hp outboards, side scan sonar, and dive-accessible accessories. It is capable of carrying seven passengers and has a top speed of 43 mph. Every response will have a minimum of two special operationstrained rescue divers, allowing staff to

effectively conduct rescue operations and provide crucial support during maritime incidents.

BT8 will be stationed off Thomas Point Road in Annapolis near the mouth of the South River, allowing access to the Chesapeake Bay and surrounding area waterways. Its shallow draft cap makes it conducive to accessing many of

the county’s smaller waterways.

BT8 will be joined by two new 50foot Metal Shark Defiant NXT Fireboats later this year.

The Anne Arundel County Fire Department is committed to proactive measures aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of all who live and visit our vast county.

# Courtesy of AACoFD

Unique Events Widen Maritime Museum Access

Not everyone is physically or mentally capable of enjoying a busy Saturday at a museum. Two regional maritime museums have created unique events to open their exhibits to a wider audience.

On Friday, May 17, the Calvert Museum Museum (CMM) in Solomons hosted a Night at the Museum for Friends with Disabilities from 5 to 7 p.m. The museum and grounds

were open exclusively for guests with disabilities and their families, friends, or caregivers. This free evening of fun was offered through a collaboration with CCPR Therapeutic Recreation Services.

Visitors enjoyed the skates and rays, fish, fossils, and maritime history in a relaxed and supportive environment. They also learned about river otters and Bubbles, CMM’s otter mascot,

and explored the Discovery Room, boat basin, and Drum Point Lighthouse (calvertmarinemuseum.com).

The second Sunday of each month, the Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News, VA, hosts Friendly Hours for family members, friends, or loved ones who need a tailored museum experience. These hours are reserved for guests, including those with mobility, cognitive, or physical challenges, who prefer to experience the museum in a quieter, less crowded environment with reduced sound and lighting. Safety protocols also take precedence during this time to ensure all guests, volunteers, and the museum team are protected.

Space is limited. Although the only cost is $1 museum admission, guests are encouraged to purchase advance tickets online so that the staff knows you are coming (marinersmuseum.org).

Do you know of more opportunities at regional maritime museums to increase access to their exhibits? Tell us about them by emailing editor@proptalk.com

Marine Trades Career Expo

On Thursday, April 25, Eastport Yacht Club Foundation (EYCF) hosted the 13th annual Marine & Maritime Career Expo at Bert Jabin’s Yacht Yard in Annapolis. It’s a day about inspiring young people to pursue education and rewarding jobs in the boating industry. For EYCF it is a way of helping with one of the many workforce development challenges happening across our country.

Conceived in 2010 with the support of Anne Arundel County Public Schools, the Expo is a special effort that allows one-on-one connections. Industry pros and trade school and higher education reps have the opportunity to talk directly with students that have shown interest in the field. In addition to meeting dozens of exhibitors, students visit marine support businesses on the property and experience a working boatyard.

Nine Anne Arundel County High Schools sent 124 energetic 10th, 11th, and 12th graders along with their teach-

ers. At least two students were offered summer jobs, and many others handed out resumes to potential employers.

Chesapeake High School’s technology and engineering teacher, Melvin Gill, said, “Some of the students I brought with me are probably not headed to college. Giving them this exposure to different career pathways is invaluable.”

Isaac Sears, a student from Chesapeake, said, “I learned the marine business is not just about fixing boat engines. Looking at all the interesting opportunities here feels pretty exciting.”

Brianna Horne, who came from IYRS School of Technology and Trades in Newport, RI, shared, “We got more meaningful interaction with Expo attendees than at any other event in the last year.”

EYCF Expo chairperson Wendy Madden says, “As a human resources manager in the industry, I’m passionate about the critical need for attracting new rising stars to the business. This day is one day that the whole boatyard looks forward to.”

Anne Arundel County Public Schools work-based learning facilitator and EYCF board member Kimberly Cox reflected, “I’m so happy to be able to work on both sides of the Expo. This meaningful collaboration is an experience I love giving to our students.”

Learn more about all the EYCF programs at eycfoundation.org.

# Photo courtesy of EYCF

Norfolk Harborfest

America’s largest, longest-running, free maritime festival returns for its 48th year!

For three memorable days, June 7-9, at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront, Harborfest celebrates all of the elements that make Norfolk and Hampton Roads a historic maritime and Naval community. On both land and sea, thrilling activities and live music take center stage, including the annual Parade of Sail featuring international tall ships, one of the largest fireworks shows on the East Coast, a mesmerizing drone show, interactive family games and activities, Navy exhibits and demonstrations, artisan foods and beverages, national and regional live entertainment, and much more.

The spectacular Parade of Sail, under the direction of the Virginia Pilots Association, will enter the

Downtown Norfolk Harbor on Friday, June 9 at 12 p.m. Following tradition, this impressive fleet will include tall ships, character vessels, sleek power cruisers, sailing craft, antique and classic wooden boats, military vessels, tugs, and more! Thousands of onlookers stationed at vantage points along the Elizabeth River will be able to witness this expansive fleet as it dances down the river towards Town Point Park. Some of the tall ships in attendance include the Kalmar Nyckel, Schooner Virginia, Godspeed, the Pride of Baltimore II, and more.

Other fun events include the Ultimate Build a Boat Challenge on Saturday and race on Sunday;

a USCG search and rescue demo; the Virginia wine, spirits, and craft beer garden; a butterfly encounter; street performers; a silent disco; and so much more. The fireworks display is scheduled for Saturday night at 9:30 p.m. and will be fired from a floating platform in the Elizabeth River.

For a full schedule of events, visit festevents.org/events/2024/norfolkharborfest

Charlie Husar

1948-2024

By John Wooldridge

It is with a heavy heart that I report that Charlie Husar, constant competitor in the Cal-25 fleet, and tireless volunteer supporting onedesign racing classes of all kinds for the CBYRA, has gone to Fiddler’s Green. At our end-of-frostbites spring gathering, and at the memorial service organized at Annapolis Yacht Club by his sister, Elizabeth Boylan, there were many individual tales shared of Charlie’s successes, of his humor on the racecourse and on the Burnside Street docks where many Cal-25s have long tied up, and of his incredible generosity.

He was our fleet guru, as well as its glue, and he always had time to solve any owner’s problems. For example, there is still a resin stain on my basement floor marking the spot where Charlie showed me how to fabricate a new mast support beam. I can’t count the number of times he would wade out onto flooded docks to check and adjust mooring lines for the

entire fleet on high-water days. If an owner had a problem with his or her mast, Charlie had a deluxe bosun’s chair and a strong arm to lend, or would arrange an empty slip between two other boats into which a Cal-25 would dock and a crew of helpful fleet members ready to lower or raise a mast with an ingenious lifting rig.

Problem-solving always interested Charlie, dating back to his days as a student of physics at the University of Maryland, where in recent years he endowed a significant fellowship, and in his career with Booz-Allen Hamilton. Maintaining and growing the fleet of boats built in the 1960s and 1970s was one of his ongoing puzzles, and he took every opportunity to bring new sailors into the fleet, very often aboard his own

“I’m not the best racer out there, but I am consistent. I always show up.”

easily recognized, black-hulled Cal-25 Chicken Little. Many of us in the fleet followed that example, sometimes losing crew when they decided to purchase a Cal-25 of their own.

There is no doubt that the entire fleet wishes Charlie “fair winds and following seas.”

June

1

Drayden African American Schoolhouse open house

One of the nation’s best-preserved oneroom African American schoolhouses. Visitors are invited to learn more about the restored schoolhouse, its rich history, and importance to education in St. Mary’s County. All ages are welcome, and admission is free.

7-9

norfolk harborfest

America’s largest, longestrunning, free maritime festival. At Town Point Park, Downtown Norfolk waterfront, VA. Parade of sail at noon on Friday. Fireworks 9:30 p.m. on Saturday.

8 Bands in the Sand

Join the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) and Title Sponsor Annapolis Subaru for a night of live music on the beach raising critical funds to help save the Bay! Sells out quickly: cbf.org

8 chesapeake Bay motoring Festival

Rain or shine at the Kent Island Yacht Club in Chester, MD. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Enjoy classic boats and cars along the yacht club’s waterfront lawn.

8

herrington harbour north marina Resort Boater Yard Sale Nautical-themed yard sale 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Herrington Harbour North Marina Resort (389 Deale Rd, Tracys Landing, MD). Come find great deals on all things boating-related including boats, boating gear, outboards, rigging, sails, and more! Do you have boating gear to sell? Reserve a spot by contacting David at david@herringtonharbour. com or 410-867-4343. There is no fee to sell, but registration is required.

12-18

maryland Fleet Week and Flyover

Baltimore

Maryland Fleet Week & Flyover

Baltimore returns to Baltimore City and Baltimore County with an exciting lineup of ship tours, festivals, flyovers, and educational activities, taking place at the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, North Locust Point, and Martin State Airport.

14-16

36th Antique and classic Boat Festival and coastal Arts Fair

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Father’s Day weekend at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. One of the largest classic boat shows in the Mid-Atlantic region. Featuring the theme, “It’s All About Fishing,” members of the Antique & Classic Boat Society-Chesapeake Bay Chapter will celebrate vintage sport and commercial fishing boats. Other attractions include boating history talks, maritime vendors, juried artists, nautical flea market, children’s activities, free boat rides, Field of Dreams (boats for sale), great food and more. Questions: chesapeakebayacbs@ gmail.com

15

eYc Rock the Dock party In Support of the Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta. 4 to 8 p.m. at Eastport Yacht Club in Annapolis, MD. Open to the public, advance GA tickets $15 or $20 at the gate. Live entertainment by the Eastport Oyster Boys, silent auction, 50/50 raffle, food and libations available for purchase.

Crabcakes

15-19 Drayden African American Schoolhouse open house

June 15, 16, and 19 (special Juneteenth holiday weekend hours). One of the nation’s best-preserved one-room African American schoolhouses. Visitors are invited to learn more about the restored schoolhouse, its rich history, and importance to education in St. Mary’s County. All ages are welcome, and admission is free.

18 junior Safety at Sea program Register for the Storm Trysail Club Chesapeake Station Junior Safety at Sea program to be held at the Annapolis Yacht Club Sailing Center. Participants must be proficient at basic sailing. Minimum age is 13. There is no fee. The deadline for sign up is May 31.

24

june cApcA program 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. virtual program with CAPCA. Speaker: Mike Singer, Founder of the Facebook group Baltimore and Chesapeake Bay Ship Watchers. Topic: “Watchful Eyes on the Key Bridge: The Unfolding of a Timeline.” Mike will share the history of the group and the timeline of events associated with the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. Free. The Zoom link will be posted on the home page a week before the program (capca.net).

June Racing

through Jun 2

Southern Bay Race Week

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1

neRYc invitational Hosted by North East River YC.

1-2 SSA colonial cup Hosted by Severn Sailing Association.

1-2 typhoon class World championships Rappahannock River Yacht Club, Irvington, VA.

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June Racing

5 - Jul 17

AYc Wednesday night Racing Series 2

Hosted by Annapolis YC.

6 - Sep 26

Antique and classic Sailboat Racing

Hosted by Cambridge YC every other Thursday.

7 mustang Survival Annapolis to Bermuda ocean Race

Hosted by Eastport YC, Annapolis, MD.

8 Don Backe memorial cRAB Regatta

Hosted by Annapolis YC.

8 pSA moonlight Race

Hosted by the Potapskut Sailing Association in Pasadena, MD. Breakfast and drinks will be provided to participants the morning after the race. To register, contact Bob Aaron at (443) 632-9010 or MR75bobaa@gmail.com

8 RRYc Singlehanded Regatta

Hosted by the Rappahannock River Yacht Club, Irvington, VA.

8-9 uS Sailing match Race Qualifier

Hosted by Eastport YC, Annapolis, MD.

13 - Aug 29

Adult Dinghy Racing

Hosted by Cambridge YC every other Thursday.

15 cock island Race

Hosted at Portsmouth Boat Club, Portsmouth, VA.

15 maryland cures cancer Regatta

Hosted by Eastport YC, Annapolis, MD.

16 eYc cruisers cup

Hosted by Eastport YC.

20 Dc Sail Solstice cup

Hosted by DC Sail, Washington, DC.

21 newport Bermuda Race

Hosted by the Bermuda Race Foundation.

22

eYc one Design classic Hosted by Eastport YC.

22 opcYc Yankee Station Series 3

Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.

23

hYc Doublehanded Race

Hosted by Hampton YC, Hampton, VA.

23

SmSA Summer invitational Hosted by the Southern Maryland Sailing Association, Solomons, MD.

28-29 eYc Boomerang Race

Hosted by Eastport YC, Annapolis, MD.

29 Broad Bay Regatta

Hosted by Broad Bay Sailing Association at Norfolk Yacht and Country Club, Norfolk, VA.

30

nYcc Wolcott memorial Regatta

Hosted by Norfolk Yacht and Country Club, Norfolk, VA.

July

3-16

World match Racing Academy 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Oakcliff Sailing Center in Oyster Bay, NY. Endorsed by the World Match Racing Tour, this program offers intensive training in match racing tactics and skills, including hands-on experience with Match 40 boats and expert coaching.

4

13th Annual Solomons island

Fourth of july Boat parade

Location: 8.331264 BY 76.450065 (up Mill Creek) in Solomons, MD. The starting cannon will sound at noon. Show your American pride and dress up your boat or your person and join in the fun (stars and stripes only). Follow the boat in front of you and do not lag behind (must be able to do 6 mph); safety first. No registration, just show up. For more information, please contact Melissa. mccormick101@gmail.com and stay on channel 68 the time of the parade.

6-7

umpire Seminar 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Oakcliff Sailing Center in Oyster Bay, NY. Led by international umpire, Bruce Cook, this in-person seminar is to earn your certification or re-certification. Consisting of two instructional classroom sessions and two on the water sessions, plus a practical assessment.

12-14

potomac jazz and Seafood Festival

Featuring music from nationally renowned jazz artists and delicious local seafood, this three-day event includes a variety of activities for jazz enthusiasts along the beautiful Potomac River at the St. Clement’s Island Museum in Colton’s Point, MD, and in the charming Town of Leonardtown. Proceeds from this event go towards funding the non-profit Friends of St. Clement’s Island and Piney Point Museum’s mission of supporting the museums and historic sites under the care of the St. Mary’s County Museum Division.

13 east of maui - eastport Yacht club chesapeake Standup challenge

This is an open water race set in Annapolis Harbor and the mouth of the Severn River. There will be three course options: The 7-mile challenge for more experienced paddlers, a 3 to 3.5-mile challenge suitable for more recreational paddlers, and a one mile Just for fun Race. Hosted by East of Maui and EYC in Annapolis. Benefits the EWE Spirit Foundation.

20

chesapeake Bay paddle

An epic day of paddle races and a post-paddle festival to celebrate and help protect the Chesapeake Bay. Hosted by Kent Island Outrigger Canoe Club. 35mile, 10-mile, and 3.2-mile course options. Kent Island, MD.

July Racing

through Jul 17

AYc Wednesday night Racing Series 2

Hosted by Annapolis YC.

13

nYcc Dink Vail memorial Regatta

Hosted by Norfolk Yacht and Country Club, Norfolk

13-14

Admiral Byrd Regatta

Hosted by Cambridge YC.

20-21 FBYc one Design Regatta

Hosted by Fishing Bay YC, Deltaville, VA.

24 - Aug 28

AYc Wednesday night Racing Series 3 Hosted by Annapolis YC.

2 AYc jr. Annual Regatta

Hosted by Annapolis YC.

6-7

RhYc Log canoe Series

Hosted by Rock Hall YC.

7

opcYc Veteran›s cup

Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.

12-13

2nd Annual Rescue Regatta

A race to the rescue as Middlesex County Volunteer Rescue Squadron’s Rescue Regatta returns with a day of racing, two evenings of good food, and good music hosted at the Deltaville Maritime Museum. Racecourse officiated by Fishing Bay YC.

13-14

cRYcc/cRYc Log canoe Series

Hosted by Chester River Yacht and Country Club and Corsica River YC.

19-21 Screwpile Lighthouse challenge

Three days of great racing and fun parties at Safe Harbor Zahnisers Marina in Solomons, MD. Organized by Southern Maryland Sailing Association.

20

BcYA Race to Baltimore

Hosted by Baltimore City Yacht Association.

20 ccVR moonlight triangle Race

Hosted by CCV Racing, Southern Chesapeake (full moon one day away!)

27

Boardman’s challenge

Hosted by Miles River YC, St. Michaels.

27 hampton Sprints

Hosted by Hampton YC, Hampton, VA.

27-28

AYc Annual Regatta

Hosted by Annapolis YC.

27-28

mRYc Governor›s cup Log canoe Series

Hosted by Miles River YC.

28-29 eYc Boomerang Race

Hosted by Eastport YC.

EYC Rock the Dock Party

In support of the Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta

Eastport Yacht Club June 15th from 4pm to 8pm

Open to the Public

Advance General Admission Tickets $15, or $20 at the gate.

This charity event’s proceeds will benefit the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center (UMGCCC). There will be a Silent Auction and a 50/50 raffle. EYC’s famous libations, food and more will be available for purchase. For more information please visit eastportyc.org/mdcurescancer

art

Where Are They Now?

From a Bristol to a Tartan

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. If you were featured on this page and would like to update us on your sailing adventures, email beth@spinsheet.com. This month we feature Eric Plewinski and Cara Fleck Plewinski, who originally shared their story with us in January of 2021. Eric and Cara’s first boat, a 1973 30-foot Bristol, Puffin, was a generous and unexpected gift in 2018 from Eric’s percussion instructor (Eric is a professional percussionist, Cara is a harpist). When we caught up with the couple in 2021, they were enjoying day sails, short cruises, and learning more about sailing and maintaining their Bristol. Here is their update, in their own words.

Another Puffin: a Tartan

We knew that we would eventually buy a more updated vessel, and in April of 2023 we began looking in earnest. The prior October, after a major issue with the Yanmar engine on our Bristol Puffin, we decided to have the engine rebuilt over the winter

and sell the boat. Puffin’s new owners are a couple from Virginia who are about our age and were looking for their first cruising boat to sail in the area where the Potomac River meets the Bay.

When we started boat shopping, we knew we wanted a boat around the same length or slightly larger. Eric is six foot, four inches, so we preferred a boat with more headspace down below. A cabin with a more modern galley and a shower was a “must.” Finally, since we had already learned a lot about Yanmar motors, we wanted another boat with a Yanmar.

Eric, who is always ‘window shopping’ for sailboats, saw a 1988 Tartan 34-2 in beautiful condition come through his feed. We took a look a few days later, and the boat checked all of the boxes, plus it had heating and air conditioning. We made the purchase and renamed her Puffin.  Pop the ’chute!

With the Bristol we learned a great deal about engine maintenance, but with the Tartan we’ve learned how to use the spinnaker—something we had not tried on the Bristol.

Over the last three years we’ve taken many lengthy cruises and overnights around the Chesapeake, including lots of

nights on Lake Ogleton, long weekends in St. Michaels, and a trip to the Rhode River. We continue to do lots of day sails and have taken many friends out for happy hour cruises and dinner on the boat. We’ve also done tandem cruises and raftups with other boats.

We still like to sail year-round. When it’s coldest out we take short sails from Weems Creek to Annapolis Harbor and back. It’s fun to sail in Annapolis Harbor when it’s empty.

A preference for big boats

Since 2021 we’ve taken a few trips to Europe, and we spent July of 2022 in Maine, where we tried dinghy sailing and found that it was not as fun for us as sailing a yacht-sized vessel!

Professionally, Cara is now the senior director for general management and strategic initiatives at the University of Maryland’s Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, having previously held a communications position in the school’s Division of Student Affairs. Eric, a professional percussionist, has ramped up his performance and teaching schedule since Covid is finally behind us. art

# The “new” Puffin, a Tartan.

Start Sailing Now Alumni Meetup

On April 28, a beautiful spring morning, SpinSheet and Start Sailing Now hosted the first Start Sailing Now Alumni Meetup at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show. Approximately 60 alumni and their guests gathered in front of the SpinSheet booth, creating a buzz as they swapped stories, shared dreams, made connections, and encouraged and inspired one another. Thanks to all who attended. It was great to chat with you in person!

# We had many requests for another meetup, so stay tuned!

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 Sailtime

# Camille Hartshorn and Cara Fleck Plewinski at the Alumni Meetup.

SpinSheet Crew Parties 2024

As is our spring tradition, SpinSheet hosted three Crew Parties: Solomons (March 10), Hampton (April 6), and Annapolis (April 28). At all three parties, sailors gathered to find boats to sail on or crew for their own boats. Anyone who missed the parties can seek boats and crew online all year long through our free online crew finder at spinsheet.com/crew-finder

Thank you to our hosts and sponsors, especially to the Southern Maryland Sailing Association, Marker 20, and Eastport Yacht Club!

# Century Club members acted as SpinSheet ambassadors to welcome newcomers to the party.

# Taking pictures at the “boat board” in Annapolis.

# Sailors at Marker 20 in Hampton.

# Making friends at the Eastport YC in Annapolis.

# Fun at the Southern Maryland Sailing Association in Solomons.

Stories of the Century

Springtime Brings More Days on the Water!

Now that the Chesapeake’s temperatures are finally warming up, SpinSheet Century Club activity is in full swing. Aspiring Century Club members aim to log 100 on-water days on all types of vessels by December 31. Follow their progress in these pages and online at spinsheet.com/century-club. All boaters are welcome to join the fun!

Cindy Wallach: 103 Days

SpinSheet Century Club member and columnist, Cindy Wallach has been busy full-time cruising in the Caribbean for the past couple of years, so she’s already logged her own 100-plus days along with those of her daughter Naia. We loved seeing this happy photo of Cindy, who’s usually the one behind the camera, not the one posing! Her log for March into April reads: “dinghy to beach, kayak around harbor, dinghy to dog walk, dinghy to marina… sail from Salinas, Puerto Rico to Samana, Dominican Republic.” Find Cindy’s latest story, “Passagemaking With Family” on page 54.

Greg Welker: 14 Days

My wife Jenny and I are getting our sailing days in with a canoe and kayak sailing meet on the Eastern Shore. Great group of people and fun conditions!

Mike Pitchford: 86 Days

Following winter in Florida, Mike and his wife Sue are back home on the Chesapeake. Mike’s been busy, first by giving a talk with SpinSheet editor Molly Winans at the Center Club in Baltimore May 8, and next, in his words: I am preparing an article for PropTalk about nano and microbreweries you can reach by boat. The best way to fully execute the research is to get on the boat and go. My co-author and another friend, the “usual suspects,” set out for Chesapeake City on May 9. We arrived at the Chesapeake Inn and Marina around 5 p.m. and proceeded to the Bayheads Brewery. Bayheads is a nano brewery with a good beer selection and an interesting history dating to 2016.

On May 10 we dawdled in town because our next stop was only 20 miles away: Havre de Grace. We arrived around 1 p.m. in rain and wind and cold. For May this was not unexpected, but the overnight temps did get into the 40s. Thank goodness for heat on the boat! We went directly to Market Street Brewing and sampled their offerings. They are also a nano-brewery with a nice selection and a very roomy and open tap room…

We look forward to Mike’s PropTalk report. Read about his recent Daysailer restoration on page 41.

Mark Hergan 60 Days

Mark Hergan has been very busy photographing the Key Bridge collapse… and more! It’s worth visiting spinsheet.com/century-club and clicking on our leaderboard just to find his entries. We also recommend the Facebook and Instagram pages for his Deadrise Marine Photography.

Terrence McCormally: 26 Days

My son, daughter-in-law, daughter, and three grandkids came to inspect the new sailboat and also to try out the dinghy, a True Kit Navigator 300 with ePropulsion spirit electric motor, perfect for playing around in Back Creek. My eight-year-old granddaughter a champ at the tiller.

Hannah Dickmyer 19 Days

M EET S TEPHEN G RIFFIN , A MERICAN I MPRESSIONIST

Interview by Gwen Mayes

Seizing opportunities to work with some of the most noted impressionists of his time, Stephen Griffin has emerged as a preeminent marine artist who brings the stories of living and working on the water to life in his art.

Who had the most influence on your career early in life?

When I was in art school in Philadelphia in my 20s, I had the good fortune to meet Cedric Egeli, the son of famed Norwegian-born impressionist Bjorn Egeli who came to the U.S. in the 1920s after spending seven years at sea painting ships. Cedric and his wife, Joanette, both professional artists, invited me to study with them on their farm just south of Annapolis. Within six months I was running their art school. I knew an opportunity of this kind seldom comes along, and it launched my professional artist career.

What did you learn?

I could have gone to any art school in the country, but to study with them directly was invaluable. What I recall the most is their love of the profession, what it requires as a job, not just as a hobby. No one teaches you the business of being a professional artist in school. They instilled in me a love of the profession well beyond a skill I was learning.

How did landscape painting on the water evolve?

I met Robert Gruppe, a third-generation artist of the famous Gruppe family, while painting in Gloucester and Rockport, MA. It was his wife who suggested I “come tomorrow morning at 7 a.m.” and paint with her husband while he fished on Cape Cod. He influenced my impressionist style. I’ve continued to paint with him for the last 30 years.

Are there favorite subjects to paint around the Bay?

My favorite scenes to paint are the skipjacks, oyster boats, and crab boats. My day starts at 4 a.m. Sunrise and sunsets are the best lights for drama. I’ve found watermen to have the same critical discerning eye for knowing the movement of water that I feel when painting the Bay. It takes time to learn that skill. The Eastern Shore was isolated for so long that its history provides a unique lifestyle and spirit I try to capture in my work.

How did Plein Air Easton take shape?

Plein Air means “open air,” and today the art festival (July 12-21) has grown to the largest one of its kind in the world. It started in 2004 when Nancy Tankersley presented the idea to the Easton Main Street director Al Bond, and a consortium of businesses, citizens, and organizations developed it further. I painted the first year it opened and was immediately drawn to the area. I told my friend who lived there, “Find me a studio. I’m going to move here.”

# Images by Stephen Griffin

How do you put the viewer in the painting? I spend a lot of time on the water sailing, boating, and fishing. You must be on the water to experience the water in a way others will as well. It’s amazing what can be embedded in a few well-placed brushstrokes. But it doesn’t have to be perfect. Trying too hard to capture something in motion like the water or a moving boat can make it appear static and lifeless. You want to keep the painting in flux and let the viewer complete it in their mind.

What’s your advice to those who want to paint professionally?

My attitude is this: get to work; do your job!

Where can we see your work?

Three main galleries carry Stephen’s work: the Trippe Gallery in Easton, the McBride Gallery in Annapolis, and the Egeli Gallery in Provincetown, MA. Follow his participation in the Plein Air Easton Art Festival or contact him at jsgriffinstudios@yahoo.com

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

Chesapeake Bay Marina

Looking for a slip for your sailboat? Find the perfect home for your boat in SpinSheet’s Chesapeake Bay Marinas Directory! Click to the online directory listings for more information and direct links.

Pelicans!

By Pamela Tenner Kellett

“There once was a bird called the pelican, whose beak can hold more than his belly-can; he can hold in his beak enough food for a week, but I don’t know how in the hell-he-can.”

All sailors love a good limerick, and this was probably the first (and most PG rated) one that I learned from my Florida snowbird grandfather. My first brown pelican memories stem from visiting my grandparents in Florida. Watching them glide with their wingtips a feather’s breadth above the water remains a favorite pastime on ocean beaches. As an Annapolis native, I certainly don’t remember them on the Chesapeake Bay. Last week one of my students, who knows I love birds, reported that she had seen a brown pelican on the Upper Chesapeake Bay.

Much has changed in the distribution and abundance of brown pelicans (Pelicanus occidentalis) since my child-

hood weekend sailing adventures on the Bay in the 1970s. Once abundant in the southeast, the impacts from the pesticide DDT led to brown pelicans listing as an Endangered Species in 1970. DDT accumulated in the tissues of fish and led to a weakening of the eggshells in fish-consuming bird species such as brown pelicans, bald eagles, and osprey. DDT was banned in 1972, and brown pelicans were removed from the Endangered Species List in 1985, a conservation success story. The first breeding pair appeared in the Chesapeake Bay in 1987. As of 2022 there were 2500 nesting pairs in the Lower Bay.

Arriving from as far south as Cuba, the brown pelicans nest on Bay islands by mid-April. Islands provide protection from predator species such as raccoons. Brown pelicans are colonial nesters, frequently sharing nest sites with double crested cormorants. While they prefer ground nests,

they will build a nest up higher in bushes or trees for safety reasons. Both parents incubate the white eggs for 30-36 days. Young are born naked and blind and are fed by regurgitation. With a wingspan of six feet and a weight of eight to 10 pounds, brown pelicans would be eye-catching without their very distinctive beak and unique pouch. They prey upon menhaden, herring, sheepshead, and silversides. With their excellent eyesight they can spot fish from 70 feet above the surface. After plunge diving, their pouch acts like a dip net holding up to three gallons of water. When they surface, the pouch drains as they tilt their heads back to swallow the fish.

Pelicans also have large webbed feet and are proficient swimmers. Young pelicans can swim before they can fly. Pelicans can eat up to four pounds of fish per day, which sounds as if it should be enough food for a week!

Send your pelican photos to editor@spinsheet.com

Photo by Ted Morgan # Photo by Susan Hale

The Plan Is To Race Her... Maybe

A loving restoration of an old Day sailer makes a returning sailor curious about racing.

By Mike Pitchford

Iam a sailor. Okay, yes, I own several powerboats. And yes, my biggest boat is a cruising powerboat. But I am a sailor at heart, at least.

From college on I was almost never without a sailboat. After grad school it was a houseboat to live on and an Erickson 27 to sail. The Erickson was followed by a Sabre 32. The progression included marriage and two sons. The houseboat was long gone, of course (I was married after all).

In 1994 the “day job” took our young family away from the Chesapeake Bay to Charlotte, NC. We held on to the Sabre, keeping her in charter and using her for a weeklong annual Bay cruise ourselves. We explored lake sailing (okay for daysailing, not so good for cruising) and bought a weekend lake house.

You know what happened next. The boys became enamored with powerboats, especially personal watercraft (PWC). Though they both know how to sail, the connection between adolescent testosterone and horsepower was too great to overcome. We eventually sold the Sabre and expanded our collection of boats without sails.

As a result, I was suffering “sailing withdrawal.” We had room at the lake house dock, and I went looking for a small boat to sail. I found a 1984 Day Sailer II with her original sails and generally in serviceable condition. I sailed her some, but work (that pesky day job) and all those powerboats, not to mention soccer and little league, kept my use to a minimum. My sailing skills were rusty, but not frozen.

After 11 years in Charlotte, we moved back to the Bay, to Annapolis,

MD. We found a nice house on a creek off the Bay. We got back into cruising a sailing vessel, buying a Catalina 380. The DS II migrated up from Charlotte and found a home on a lift in our backyard. She tasted saltwater, maybe for the first time. However, she continued to languish (even busier day job).

In 2010 I gave up. I passed her on to a brother, Pat, who took it to his weekend home on a North Carolina sound. Sadly, she never got in the water (another busy day job story). Some years later he was diagnosed with cancer. He passed away in 2019, way too young.

In the summer of 2020 Pat’s wife reached out and asked if I wanted the DS II back. Needing a pandemic project

and now retired, I said ‘yes!” Did I really have more time or was I fooling myself?

Ten years of neglect showed. She was much worse for the wear, but salvageable. Undaunted by the photos my sister-in-law sent, I drove down from Annapolis to collect the boat and get her back home. I replaced the trailer tires, wiring, and lights and repacked the wheel bearings. Soon she was back in Annapolis. The real work started.

I cleaned and cleaned and cleaned her. I bought a new full cover and put her back on her lift. Over that winter I had a local woodshop build new hatch boards and a tiller (both had rot). I replaced the halyards and did some mast

repair. I also replaced the mainsheet. She was sailable by the summer of 2021.

With the original 1984 sails she was a “colorful” little boat for a singlehanded day sail. But I was thinking about racing, maybe. I joined the Day Sailer Association and Fleet 1 in Annapolis. That engagement was not a high dollar bar. The price of a new set of sails to accommodate my race desires seemed like a big leap if I was not really going to jump into racing with both feet.

The solution was Robin Richards, president of the Day Sailer Association and longstanding member and leader of Fleet 1. Robin is the dedicated racer I hope to become someday. Perhaps against her better judgement, she had an older set of racing sails she was willing to share. I arranged to pick them up and just like that, the racing sail problem was solved.

Next it was time to tune the rig for racing. Here I have a family advantage. One of my sisters married into sailing royalty. Her husband is Gary Bodie, former head sailing coach at Old Dominion University, Hampton University, and the US Naval Academy. He was also the head sailing coach for the US Olympic Committee for eight years and three Olympics.

Gary and I pulled the rigging and tuning guide from the Day Sailer Association website. With his help, over a weekend that included a couple trips to West Marine, we did the final fixing and tuning of the rig. The boat, named Pat’s Spirit, after my brother, is now more race-ready than me. The question is, “Do I have the time and can I build the skills to be competitive?”

On the “time” front and for those of you not retired, let me share a little secret. Retirement does not mean you have more time to do things you always wanted to do that the day job kept you from doing. Most of us stay pretty busy in retirement. For us, cruising the powerboat, being active on not-for-profit boards, and now grandkids can fill the time formerly committed to the day job.

On the “skills” front, who knows? I do hope to race this summer in Fleet 1. If I do get out there, I will be the one in last place, with a big smile on my face. #

Summer Cruising Raft Up Like a Pro!

For socially oriented sailors, raftups offer some of the best days of summer cruising. If you’re new to rafting boats, you’ll want to do all you can to ensure that your floating party doesn’t end up drifting with the wind and current or get tangled up in an embarrassing—or dangerous—mess. For some tried and true rafting tips, we reached out to a few Chesapeake cruising sailors with lots of rafting experience. Here are their recommended tips and pointers.

Start with the anchor boat.

Generally, the largest, heaviest boat should be the anchor boat, also called the host boat or mother ship. Ideally, the anchor boat will make sure that its anchor is set and holding for a period of time before accepting a raft boat. Occasionally when traveling with a group this is not possible, but most often it can be accomplished and will add a layer of confidence.

Anchor dragging incidents and swing radius increase with rafting, so before setting the host boat, make sure you have enough distance from other boats and objects. Be aware of your surroundings to anticipate any issues. A seven-to-one scope with a good flat entry is the minimum, but for a raft consider 10 to one, because you’ll have extra weight.

Larger rafts can put an enormous strain on the single anchor securing the raft, and even a modest wind accompanied by a shift can lead to late night “fire drills.” The anchor boat captain is the final authority on how many boats he or she can accept. As a point of reference, the Hunter Sailing Association-1 limits individual rafts to five boats and the Chesapeake Bristol Clubrecommends that no more than seven boats raft overnight.

Add the rafting boats.

The anchor boat determines if an approaching boat should raft on the port or starboard side and should put fenders in place to indicate on which side they will accept the rafting boat. VHF radio contact is good to indicate intentions and to clearly give instructions prior to approach.

Rafting boat captains must decide for themselves whether it is safe to join the raft, and if it is,

maneuver at slow speed. This prevents the need for rapidly backing down and the associated “prop walk” that can cause your boat to move into the boat you are trying to raft with.

The approaching boat should be ready to supply the fenders and the lines to tie up, and the host captain or crew should be standing by prepared to take the rafting boat’s lines, beginning with the forward spring line. The best practice is to have bow line, stern line, and two spring lines. Never use the loop end of a line on a cleat. If a storm brews and you need to untie in a hurry, heavy winds pushing on the lines could prevent the removal of

# A cleat hitch can be quickly released if you need to de-raft in a hurry. Photo courtesy of Lynne Hoot

# Jeanneau Sailboat Owners raftup party. Photo courtesy of Nancie Merritt

the line, resulting in the need to cut it loose. Skip the loop and tie up with the usual cleat hitch (two rivers and a bridge).

The most important factor when rafting sailboats is to ensure that the masts are offset such that any wake on the raft will not cause the masts and shrouds to “lock up.” To accomplish this, the rafting boat’s spreaders should be several feet (at a minimum) forward or aft from the host’s spreaders. Usually, the anchor boat is somewhat forward. If possible, align the lifeline gates, though this is not always practical. In any event, try to keep lines clear of lifeline gates to ensure safe access and reduce tripping hazards.

When it’s time to de-raft.

Conditions can change quickly on the water, and it is more difficult to break up a raft safely once conditions worsen. Check your forecast and wind conditions prior to deciding to raft and plan to de-raft well before the arrival of any questionable weather. It is always best to make the decision to de-raft early in anticipation of poor conditions. The adage “better safe than sorry” applies.

Are you rafting just for the afternoon, or will you remain tied together overnight? Generally, it is best to de-raft and anchor alone for the evening, unless the weather forecast is for very benign conditions in a protected cove or anchorage. Derafting in the dark, or once strong winds and/or heavy rain are present, can be difficult and even dangerous. Preventing a hazardous situation is the watchword for keeping you, your crew, and your vessel safe.

Speaking of preventing a hazard, someone should always be on both ends of a line when loosening and breaking away. A loose line in the water could easily snag someone’s prop.

More best practices.

For everyone’s safety and comfort, boats that may run their generator during the raft should consider keeping the exhaust side clear of another boat.

Always keep the key in the ignition during a raft so that you can respond quickly during an emergency.

Protect your freeboard by using plenty of fenders, and make sure they’re big enough to keep the rafted

boats from “crunching.” Place fenders so that midship and stern are close together for ease of walking between boats.

When walking over boats, it is considered impolite to go through the cockpit unless invited to do so. One should walk around over the bow to get to the next boat.

For a suggestions on how to build a sunflower raft, visit spinsheet.com/howbuild-sunflower-raft

These tips and the recommended coves and creeks come courtesy of Hank Theuns, Rich Tull, and Leigh Seaver, founders of Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake; Nancie Merritt of the Jeanneau Sailboat Owners club, and Dan Breitenbach, secretary of the Hunter Sailing Association, Station 1.

Recommended Coves and Creeks for Raftups

• Eagle Cove off the Magothy River

• Mill Creek off the Great Wicomico River

• Granary Creek off the Wye East River

• Baby Owl Cove off the Choptank River

• Trippe Creek off the Tred Avon River

• Graveyard Cove off Langford Creek (Chester River)

# Stagger boats to prevent spreaders from colliding. Photo courtesy of Lynne Hoot

# Photo courtesy of Susan Theuns

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Hampton, VA

Walkability, history, hospitality, and fun: these are four reasons to visit Hampton, VA. And we didn’t even mention the sailing! Of course, sailors love this city at the bottom of the Bay, especially in June when racing sailors descend upon Hampton Yacht Club for its signature Southern Bay Race Week (SBRW) May 31-June 2.

Even if you’re not a competitive sailor, it’s worth driving into town or cruising in to dock at the Hampton Public Piers and explore this lively waterfront city. Here are places to visit and upcoming festivities in Hampton. To learn more about SBRW, find faithful SpinSheet reporter Lin McCarthy’s report on page 72.

Space Out

Only a three-minute walk from Hampton Public Piers, the Virginia Air & Space Science Center celebrates more than 25 years of educational excellence as the official visitor center for NASA Langley Research Center. Located in Hampton, the birthplace of America’s space program, the center features interactive aviation exhibits spanning 100 years of flight, more than 30 historic aircraft, a hands-on space

# The Virginia Air and Space Museum. Photo by Sittie Karina Anayatin-Guiaman/Facebook

exploration gallery, unique space flight artifacts, and more. The center is home to the Apollo 12 Command Module and the Orion PA-1 Test Vehicle.

The current IMAX movies showing are: “Cities of the Future,” “Deep Sky,” and “Astronaut: Ocean to Orbit.” Learn more at vasc.org

There Be Pirates

Is it a coincidence that Hampton, VA, is overrun by pirates on the same weekend

as Hampton Yacht Club’s Southern Bay Race Week? We think not. From May 31 to June 2, the waterfront comes alive with dozens of pirate re-enactors, costumed in historically accurate garb, who transform today’s Hampton into the busy seaport of yesterday. Led by Blackbeard the Pirate, re-enactors help visitors step back in time and re-live the history and legends of 1718 Hampton. Much of it centered on Mill Point Park, the festival offers a variety of children’s activities, live musical

# Part of Blackbeard’s Crew at the Pirate Festival. Photo by SpinSheet

entertainment, fireworks, period vendors, arts and crafts, and peoplewatching galore.

Friday, May 31—Grand Pirate’s Bash, 7 to 10 p.m. at Virginia Air & Space Center.

Saturday, June 1—Festival Hours 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with fireworks over the Hampton River at 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, June 2—Festival continues beginning at noon with “The Last Huzzah” at 6 p.m.

For details in links, visit the events page at visithampton.com

What’s New at the Hampton History Museum?

An eight-minute walk from Hampton Public Piers will take you to the Hampton History Museum. As well as its thought-provoking standing exhibits, check out the June exhibit by artisans Dave Lee of Hatton Cross Steampunk, Mike Parodi of Master Creations Enterprises, Inc., and the merchants from A Steampunked Life with new contraptions, conveyances to display and demonstrate, and accoutrements for purchase to conjure up a time when airships were commonplace and steam power ruled the world; an alternative Victorian era and an imagined Wild West frontier.

Museum admission is free the weekend of the Blackbeard Pirate Festival: Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, June 2, 1 to 5 p.m. Find free parking in the garage across the street from the museum. Visit hamptonhistorymuseum.org.

Paddle Around Hampton

Shored Up offers several ways to see Hampton by kayak:

• Birds, Bees & Trees Tour—Saturday June 8, 9 a.m. to noon. Explore the beauty of the Upper Hampton River during nesting season! See eagle, osprey, heron, and egret nests and listen for the peeps of the chicks. Learn about special trees and meet a local beekeeper and wildlife rescuer.

• Phoebus Phun on Tap Tour Saturday June 22, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Kayak your way around Hampton waters and end with a local craft cider from Sly Clyde Ciderworks. Bring a friend and/or make a friend on this “phun” tour!

• Downtown Hampton Paddle & Pint—Saturday July 13, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Paddle in historic downtown

Hampton and discover its unique seafood history as well as present-day restoration efforts. Reward yourself after the paddle with a cold pint or other beverage at Bull Island Brewing Company. Learn more at shoredupva.com

Bluegrass, Blues, and Brew

From June 8 -10 Hampton Arts hosts its Coastal Virginia Bluegrass & Brew Festival at the American Theater, a restored 1908 vaudeville house and current performing arts center, in the Phoebus neighborhood of Hampton. The event features Chicken Wire Empire, the Jacob Jolliff Band, and Damn Tall Buildings Bluegrass Band. Learn more and find ticket links on the events page at visithampton.com

13th Annual Day of Remembrance

Join The Sankofa Projects on Outlook Beach on Fort Monroe as they educate and celebrate the richness and diversity of the African diaspora and bring awareness to this tragic chapter in American and global history. The program includes African drumming, songs, dance, poetry, historical presentations, and traditional African libations. June 8, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn more at thesankofaprojects. blogspot.com

Sunset Music Series

Make your way to the Virginia Air and Space Science Center for the last show in its three-part Sunset Music Series on June 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. (rain or shine), featuring Better by Tuesday.

# The Hampton waterfront is very walkable. Photo by Visit Hampton

# The carousel next to the Hampton Public Piers. Photo by Visit Hampton

Double Your Cruising Pleasure at Half the Cost

By Keith Donald

What am I talking about? How can I spend an additional half the purchase price of a used boat and expect to double my cruising pleasure? Why not take that money and buy a bigger, better, or newer boat to begin with? Valid questions for sure; now hear me out.

Mystic is a 2005 Beneteau 373 that I purchased in the fall of 2020 that has the space and cruising comfort we had been seeking as long as we remained tethered to shore power, with heating and air conditioning, refrigeration, microwave, and unlimited hot water. Those advantages were diminished at anchor since Mystic only had a single 160Ahr house battery, no inverter, and not even an anchor washer. Don’t get me wrong: I grew up in the Annapolis area sailing and cruising, using much more primitive means.

I knew an inverter, a second house battery, and anchor washer were minimum necessities. These were hardly budget busters. I also installed four 175-watt flexible solar panels on a large Bimini top. With those upgrades, I was now ready for the 2021 cruising season to begin. I even purchased an electric outboard with a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery for our inflatable dinghy.

Here comes the sun

Those solar panels are going to provide all the capacity I need, right? That includes full-time refrigeration and auxiliary needs like the microwave, cabin lights, instruments, charging the dinghy battery, and even domestic hot water. However, after a few cruises that spring, it became apparent that the battery stor-

age was inadequate. The engine alternator proved to be anemic and appeared to be charging intermittently. Cloudy days were especially difficult given my limited storage capacity.

I was satisfied with the solar panel system I purchased from Sun Powered Yachts. Lyall Burgess provided great advice. The systems included cabling, connectors, controllers, and circuit breakers plus guidance for the DIY installer. I later contacted Lyall regarding storage capacity, and he confirmed my suspicion that LiFePO4 batteries were game changers. I replaced the existing lead acid batteries with two 200Ahr Dakota Lithium batter-

ies, which equaled four times the useable storage capacity at half the weight. No more storage capacity issues. That would complete my system upgrade.

That is, until Lyall mentioned 12-volt heating and air conditioning, and I was hooked. Mabru Power Systems offers a line of 12-volt HVAC units, the smallest of which (at 4200 BTU) I considered suitable for the aft cabin, especially given the lack of natural ventilation and engine compartment heat associated with that cabin. Clearly, I have now entered the realm of higher cost upgrades. Am I now going to tax the available storage and solar panel capacity? Probably.

# Solar by Sun Powered Yachts.

# Mystic on Harness Creek.

Cruising Life

We had offered the forward cabin to our guests realizing that the forward cabin would have better ventilation and be cooler. Now we have given ourselves the air-conditioned suite. How rude! You can see where this is going. Towards the end of the 2021 cruising season, we replaced the 120-volt shore powered main cabin unit with a smaller 12-volt 7000 BTU unit. Duct work from this unit also serves the forward cabin. A third 200Ahr battery would be necessary. There was no room for it back aft, but fortunately, there was sufficient space for it under the forward berth.

Shopping at the Sailboat Show

We knew we needed greater alternator capacity and a LiFePO4 compatible shore power battery charger. The Annapolis Sailboat Show gave us the opportunity to explore various products and hopefully install them prior to our last overnight cruise of the season. We selected a Balmar 120-amp alternator and a Sterling Power 40-amp battery charger. Our last cruise was in mid-November in Hopkins Creek off the Severn River. It was cold, so we got a good taste of the adequacy of the systems installed. The capacity of the two heat pumps was sufficient, but the storage capacity was marginal. Also, the charging capacity of the new high output alternator was disappointing. I had yet to install an alternator amp meter, so the charging problem was

not immediately apparent. I knew that I needed more charging and storage capacity and had time over the winter to complete those tasks.

What remained was to add a fourth 200Ahr LiFePO4 battery, alternator amp meters, battery status indicators, a second high output alternator, and three more solar panels. Lyall had also put a bug in my ear during the previous season, so I added a Schenker Zen 30 energy recovery water maker, capable of making eight gallons of water per hour with an energy consumption of 110 watts.

Oh, and one more thing: West Marine had a buy one get one free deal on electric primary winches that I could not resist. Now that I had the means to power a small city, it made perfect sense to add electric winches.

Fortunately, there was room for two batteries beneath the forward berth. The charging issue with the high-capacity alternator was linked to its proximity to the engine heat exchanger resulting in reduced charging as the engine heated up. This problem was alleviated by adding an engine compartment exhaust blower, thus reducing the engine compartment heat. After a full season of cruising in 2022, I can confidently say the installed systems are up to the task.

Weight and maintenance

But what about my claim of doubling my cruising pleasure? Let’s start with the added weight of all these systems. The batteries weigh less, although slightly more when you consider four batteries versus two. The two additional 12-volt AC units are no heavier than the original 120-volt AC unit they replaced. The solar panels, inverter, watermaker, extra alternator, cabling, and accessories certainly add weight, but add less than the 45 gallons of water no longer stored in the aft water tank. The 55-gallon forward water tank is more than sufficient since that tank can be topped off daily with the flick of a switch.

How about system maintenance? So far, the batteries have been maintenancefree, and the solar panels have been maintenance free. The inverter is maintenance free. The AC units require periodic water intake filter cleaning and air filter cleaning. The watermaker has a rinsing cycle that maintains fresh water in the system between uses. Long-term maintenance requires that it be operated once a week, that the intake filter be cleaned periodically, and an intermediate filter be replaced annually. The cabin heating system provides freeze protection and moisture reduction eliminating winterizing/de-winterizing as well as mildew and corrosion abatement.

Okay, so weight and maintenance are sum zero. Let’s talk benefits. I sail year-round since winterization is now eliminated. The ideal cruising months of May, June, September, and October on the Chesapeake are bracketed by four months that are often too hot or too cold for cruising comfort. Uninterrupted heating or cooling is available for 12-15 hours between recharge cycles. I can cruise in comfort for eight months of the year. To supplement solar charging, the dual high output alternators provide 150 amperes at a throttle setting slightly above idle with a fuel consumption of around 0.20-0.25 gallon/hour. Finally, the electric winches provide the solo sailor unlimited ability to tack upwind in close quarters or in a narrow body of water.

These upgrade projects have been educational and rewarding for me. I hope that by sharing this information, it may help others pursue aspects that appeal to their particular interests. #

# Zen 30 watermaker.

# Mabru 12-v air-conditioner unit.

# Dual Balmar high-output alternators.

Reflections on 101 Days at Sea, to Maine and Back

By Captain Cheryl Duvall

At first, it was just a bucket list item among many post-retirement dreams. For years my husband and I envied cruising friends enjoying cool summer temperatures in Maine while we desperately windscooped every wisp of air in a hot Chesapeake anchorage. We heard alluring stories about uninhabited islands, quaint seaside towns, and bountiful lobsters. We also heard woes of dodging thousands of lobster pots in inevitable Maine fog while avoiding collisions with fishing boats. Hmmm. Would sailing to Maine really be that exceptional? Would it be significantly different than cruising the Chesapeake? Yes! And yes!

Preparations

Exactly one year ago, we began cruising to Maine on a journey that would span 101 days. We had finally retired and it was time to pursue this bucket list item on Belle Bateau, our Gozzard 44. The previous fall we began planning in earnest for this trip. We contracted off-season improvements, including service to our diesel engine, hull paint-

ing, new running rigging, sail inspection, and life raft recertification. As spring approached, the tasks we assigned to ourselves became full-time jobs. We had a five-page checklist (see sidebar) that included boat improvements and home necessities such as mail service and house checkers. It even included a three-ring binder for our grandchildren, with maps and plastic sleeves for filing postcards. Since Belle Bateau wasn’t splashed until early May, we had only two proper shakedown cruises. But as June ap-

proached, we admitted that we felt more prepared than we had eight years prior on our first long cruise to Florida. That experience, plus many seasons cruising the Chesapeake, prepared us well for our Maine journey. So on June 6, with a good weather window despite Canadian fire haze, we threw off the lines and were on our way!

Highlights

While the ultimate destination was Maine, we agreed to allow the adventure to unfold. We were retired after all, and schedules were nuisances to be avoided. Plus, if we didn’t sail to a schedule, we could avoid nasty weather.

# Overlooking the harbor in Northeast Maine, the farthest point of our journey.

# Camden Harbor.

Except for unexpected fog early in our journey along Long Island Sound, we succeeded in dodging inclement weather.

We did make it to Maine on Day 47, but had we not, it would have still been a bucket list experience. I never grow tired of arriving at towns by sea rather than by car. Even familiar places become new again when searching for a place to dock a dinghy, find fresh produce within a short walk, or discover a bus system because you don’t have a car.

When asked by friends to list highlights from our excursion to 46 different destinations, we are quick to mention that we only had one day above 80 degrees during our first 88 days and that we ironically never had fog in Maine. We also never ran aground on the many rocks we feared, nor did we snag a lobster pot despite some passages that felt as though one could walk across the pots like steppingstones to shore. Other highlights, perhaps useful to others who hope to point their bows north, include: Seven quaint towns, not to be missed: Camden, ME, with redeveloped waterfront and historic library; Rockland, ME, with wellstocked chandlery Hamilton Marine and notable Farnsworth Museum; Castine, ME, with charming historical society and private Wilson family museum; Northeast, ME, with Asticou

popovers, gardens, and LL Bean buses to Acadia National Park; Portsmouth, NH, with live music venues and engaging museums; Edgarton, MA, on Martha’s Vineyard, with impossible dinghy dock but an enchanting town with dual ferries to Chappaquiddick; and especially Cuttyhunk, MA.

Joyful innocence of Cuttyhunk: Stepping off the boat in Cuttyhunk, MA, was like stepping back in time. Adults drove golf carts while kids held posters and shouted invitations to the evening’s double feature at the island’s town hall. Pop-up restaurants appeared on different days to avoid competition with neighbors. We had delicious pizza and BYOB on one of five picnic tables

in Soprano’s chef’s driveway, and the next day celebrated my birthday dockside with oysters larger than my hand.

Glad we also visited: Port Clyde, ME, with its ferry and Wyeth connection (sadly most of the town was destroyed by fire shortly after we visited, but is being rebuilt); Monhegan, ME, accessed by ferry and explored on foot, passing Jamie Wyeth’s house; Stonington, ME, with quaint small bookshop; Rockport, MA, accessed by $1 bus from Gloucester to see Motif #1 on Bearskin Neck; Provincetown (Ptown), MA, with endless restaurants and partying atmosphere; Block Island, RI, where we rode bikes, hiked, and enjoyed fireworks at anchor; Fishers Island, NY, with ice cream at Toppers.

Fun Facts About Our Cruise:

Left June 6, returned September 14, 2023

101 days to Maine and back

Reached Maine on Day 47

Departed Maine on Day 72

42 destinations by boat, plus four more by train/car/ferry

1819 nm through nine states, Maryland to Maine

Longest passage: 239 nm from Atlantic Highlands to Sassafras River

Shortest passage: 5.4 nm from Fishers Island to Mystic

Most harrowing passage: 5.4 nm from Fishers to Mystic in dense fog

Persistent fog: Long Island Sound to Block Island Sound to Buzzards Bay

Ironically no fog during our 25 days in Maine

325 postcards mailed, including 80 to grandkids

Total engine hours: 222

Total pure sailing percentage: 22%

# Approaching lower Manhattan with the Staten Island Ferry crossing.

# Cuttyhunk harbormaster.

Newport and the Sailing Museum: I admit it. I didn’t want to like the new Sailing Museum in Newport, RI, since our town lost it to that other drinking town with a sailing problem. But the museum is great, with many interactive exhibits for kids and adults including taking the tiller in a simulated racing event.

Libraries: We visited the public library in most towns. Our top five memorable libraries: Monhegan, Camden, and Rockland, ME; Provincetown MA; and Port Washington, NY. If the day’s forecast called for non-stop rain, we often spent the whole day. I took advantage of free wifi to update our sailing website. I also wrote postcards and even watercolored a few paintings in an obscure corner of one library.

Museums: We got smarter on this trip, and not just by fixing three things a day. Even small towns had at least one museum. I’m a Wyeth fan and was delighted to revisit the Farnsworth Museum

in Rockland, ME, to see the Hopper/Wyeth exhibit. Later I saw more Hopper at the Cape Ann Museum in Gloucester, MA. The Seaport Museum in Mystic, CT, was outstanding as was the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, NH. In Salem MA, we spent one full day at the Peabody Essex Museum and a few hours at the Salem Witch Museum.

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Gardens: It never occurred to us that this sailing adventure would lead us to several notable gardens. It wasn’t easy to find an Uber to take us to and from the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden in Boothbay, ME, but we were glad we persisted. We even asked the town’s only Uber driver to stop at a grocery on our way back. Further east in Maine, we climbed up to the Thuya and Asticou Azalea Gardens provided for free by

# Whales! Two flukes and a blow over Stellwagen Bank.

the Asticou Inn. Even small towns like York, ME, and Port Washington, NY, had gardens and nature walks.

Wildlife: Sailing always puts us closer to nature, and we delighted in dolphin, seal, waterfowl, and whale sightings. We took a whale excursion charter from Gloucester and enjoyed a solid hour of flukes, breeches, and blows from several whale pods in Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

Peaceful anchorages: We were told by cruising friends that we had to keep moving east in Maine to experience idyllic anchorages, breathtaking sunsets, and quiet starlit nights. They were right! Some of our favorites include North Haven, Stonington, and Castine, as well as Maple Juice, Riggs, and Potts Coves along the midcoast.

Unusual sights: Until this trip, we never knew that Maine has more than 4600 islands. Because few are connected to the mainland by bridges, most everything arrives by boat. It wasn’t uncommon to see emergency vehicles and construction trucks on barges or ferries.

TReflections

It’s surreal to reflect on our 101-day journey. Like any significant adventure, it takes time to process. Fortunately for me, I’m obsessed with photography and journaling, so just imagine what I did for this bucket list experience! Actually, you don’t have to imagine, because much of what I recorded is publicly available on our boat’s website (sailingbelle.net) and social media where I posted 15 percent of the 5000 trip photos.

For our personal use, I kept a detailed ship’s log for each day we were underway, including hourly coordinates, weather, speeds and RPMs, mechanical issues, engine hours, time underway

estimates vs. actual time, and times spent purely sailing. Additionally, I kept a daily journal and mailed 325 postcards to family and friends, including 80 to our grandkids. One postcard was mailed to the editor of SpinSheet, pitching a couple of ideas for my favorite sailing magazine. Molly took me up on my offer, and I’m thrilled to be a contributing writer.

Since returning, I’ve created an image-rich slide deck for presentations to sailing organizations. I am happy to share our experiences with all who can endure my enthusiasm and encouragement to throw off those lines and cruise to places unknown. The experience will change you, as sailing always does!

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 loves to share sailing stories experienced on Belle Bateau, a Gozzard 44: sailingbelle.net

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Six Reasons To Charter in I taly

Who doesn’t dream about sailing in Italy? The dramatic shoreline, the history, the gorgeous blue waters… the food! Should you consider traveling to this extraordinarily popular destination in peak season (now), keep a sailing vacation in mind. Dream Yacht Worldwide (DYW), a leading sea-based vacation company with a global footprint of 40-plus bases, offers one of the best ways to enjoy Italy—by sailing throughout it.

1. It’s more affordable than you think. Chartering a yacht is more affordable and accessible than most travelers think—no sailing experience required. Rates for an Italy charter for eight people with a skipper in Naples begin at $443 per person in the shoulder season (spring/fall) and start at $756 per person during popular travel seasons between May and October.

2. Not a sailor? No problem. Dream Yacht offers a variety of different sailing options in Italy: cabin cruises where travelers reserve their own private cabin on a yacht with up to 12 total passengers with crew service and all meals included; a bareboat option for experienced sailors to take the helm; and fully crewed charters or options to sail with a skipper so that sailors can sit back and let someone else take care of navigation and mooring.

3. Beat the crowds, even during a crowded season. Traveling via yacht allows you to not only access smaller ports and off-the-beaten path destinations, but also to come and go as you please. Too many tourists on land? Move on to the next vacation spot or escape the summer crowds and relax, dine, and enjoy the Italy coastline while watching the sunset on your own vessel.

4. An intimate, personalized experience. Smaller yachts allow for more intimate, less crowded travel experiences. Sailboats have access to amazing beaches and ports that other larger boats can’t visit, allowing travelers to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations

and smaller cities. This gives travelers the opportunity to explore and enjoy additional, authentic cultural experiences in less tourism-focused areas. DYW’s popular smaller ports in Italy include Cefalu, Sicily, and Corricella Bay, within reach from the base in Naples.

Examples of unique sea-vacation experiences include the chance to possibly catch a volcano erupting on Stromboli at night. DYW travelers can explore Stromboli’s black lava beaches and watch for eruptions from the boat during an Aeolian islands boat charter. Another option is to explore the seven islands in the Aeolian Islands chain where you can sail to from DYW’s base in Portorosa. One of the islands is Alicudi, one of the few car-free islands in the world.

Italian beaches that can only be reached by boat include: Cala Granara,

Golfo della Mezzaluna, island of San Pietro in Carloforte (Sardinia); Cala Luna, Gulf of Orosei (Sardinia); and La Tabaccara, Lampedusa (Sicily).

5. Several destinations in one trip. Whether it’s Bay of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, or Sicily’s archipelagos, sailing Italy with Dream Yacht allows travelers to unpack their bags once and explore several sailing ground destinations in one trip.

6. Sailing is the perfect intro to sea travel. A more intimate, personalized experience, private sailing is a great introduction to sea travel for those who have never done so before or anyone who might get overwhelmed with a large cruise ship or bigger boat. Want to hear the scoop?

Visit dreamyachtcharter.com/ destination/italy

Sardinia;

# Photos by Dream Yacht Worldwide

Passagemaking With Family

By Cindy Wallach

Sailing with your friends, significant other, or even solo is a consensual act of adventure. When you take your kids sailing, they often don’t have veto power on where to go, when to go, or whether to go at all. Sailing as a family requires careful consideration of the smaller crew to prevent mutiny.

Cozy and safe

“Safety and comfort always come first,” says Tessa Rawson from her sailboat Turas in George Town, Bahamas. The Rawson family bought their boat in Grenada last fall and are working their way up to the Chesapeake. Tessa, her husband Alex, and their three kids Roran, Annie, and Joss have been getting their first tastes of passagemaking working their way north through the Caribbean.

“Decision making is totally different when you’re doing passages with kids,” says Tessa. “I’m more cautious, and Alex is more confident. Between us we have a balance that works well for our family.”

Underway you want to make sure your kids are hydrated, eating what they can, and hopefully not getting seasick. There are medications, wristbands, ginger candies, and the one-ear-plug trick to keep seasickness away (placing an earplug in one ear only; if you’re lefthanded, put it in the right ear). The key is figuring out what works for your crew and having that on hand. Kids won’t always be aware enough to monitor their

own hydration, and sometimes plain water is not enough. Keep track of how much is going down, and staying down, and have electrolytes stocked.

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to being comfortable and having a steady stomach at sea. Some kids like to stick with a parent on watch and take an active role. Other kids prefer to curl up in the fetal position and listen to an audiobook. Both of these are okay.

Passing the time

“The worst part is when they get bored,” says Tessa. “If (the water is) flat, they can play and use their screens to pass the time. If there’s a big sea, nothing feels comfortable.”

Painting, origami, card games, singalongs, joke-telling, or fishing can all be fun when the conditions are right. On our boat Majestic, our kids have been sailing since birth, so creative ways to pass the time have evolved over the years. During the toddler years we would set up a fender as a “horsie” and let our daughter ride out the waves bouncing in the cockpit. On flat days we would let our son hoist himself up the mast to “keep a lookout” or just to

# The Rawson family getting a taste of cruising life together.

hang out and read. As they got older, they would take watches, with our teen taking full night watches and letting Mom and Dad get some extra sleep.

For passages of any length, it helps to have goals for the kids to look forward to and celebrate. Keep a popsicle as a “halfway there” celebration treat. Maybe have a scorecard to mark passing boats or seabirds. Pass out a little candy for hitting a certain speed under sail, or for every 50 miles, or to celebrate each sunset at sea. We like to create music playlists for passages, or pick theme music for a watch, like this will be the disco watch.

Planning together

“The more they know, the less resistance we get,” Tessa remarks about her family passages. Early on, all of the discussion about weather windows and sail planning was just between mom and dad aboard Turas. Then, they realized that the kids were happier when they got to be a part

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of the planning. Now they have a daily briefing and invite the kids to look at the weather and charts with them.

“If the kids have no idea what’s happening, that makes them nervous. They tend to remember any scary moments, and you can lose their enthusiasm for the whole voyage,” remarks Tessa. “They like understanding how it all works, why we make the decisions we do, and what might happen underway. They’re much happier when they have agency in the passage.”

On Majestic, we had some planned gybes on a recent 800-mile passage. We knew after getting into the rhythm of the days, our daughter might get startled with a loud gybe. We made it a point to let her know ahead of time so that the noise or change of course wouldn’t alarm her.

One quirky lesson we learned along the way was to give the kids a heads up on what language would be spoken at our next destination. We arrived

# An experienced teen may take a full night watch and allow his parents time to rest.

in the British Virgin Islands, and after check in we sat at a cafe and my daughter asked if she could get ice cream. I gave her some money and said, “Sure, go right ahead.”

She came back close to tears with no ice cream. I asked what was wrong, and she said, “Nobody understood me. I asked in Spanish and then in French, and they just looked at me weird.”

I smiled and said, “Did you try English?” She was incensed that we didn’t let her know we were on an Englishspeaking island.

If your first sail as a family doesn’t go well, don’t give up. The key to family passagemaking is to make sure the whole family gets involved however they can. And make sure nobody has access to an eyepatch and a sword.

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

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# Reading aboard Majestic.

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.

Sailing (and Tennis) Aid Longevity

By Denise Gill

The Corinthians Chesapeake Bay Fleet’s annual first on-water event of the season, known as The Non-Procrastinator, was held on April 19 on Clements Creek.

The event was to gather our early bird skippers. It attracted 13 boats: Belican, Tiki, Peaceful Retreat, Erin Brie, First Point of Aries, Merlin, Owl Moon, Chapter Five, Echo Lima, Conundrum, Enchanté, Huck Finn and, Baltic Star

The day began with cool breezes and a chilly drizzle. As the boats began to arrive, the sky brightened, and the temperatures warmed. Our host, Ed Burke, put his dinghy to use and assisted everyone with mooring. After all was sorted, we were invited to the host raft of Merlin, Chapter Five, and Erin Brie to share delicious appetizers and see old and new friends. Everyone mingled between the boats. Lots of smiles. Lots of laughter.

As memorable as this first event was, there was a very special moment recognizing Bill Miles. His good friend, Peter Quick, surprised Bill with champagne for all and presented a toast to Bill

who, at 94 years of age, is the oldest member attending on-water events with the Corinthians. Bill credits his cheerful longevity of course to sailing, but also to a lifetime of playing tennis. Bill joined The Corinthians in 1998. It is wonderful to share these moments that mean so much with our members, and especially with our newest members.

Memorial Day Weekend our club members participated in the Multi-

Club Meetup at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) facility on Granary Creek in the Wye River. In June we embark on our Spring Cruise, June 7-16, which starts with a kickoff in Solomons Island and ends at the Blue Grass Festival in Crisfield, MD. Please feel free to stop by and say hello at any of our events. For more information about The Corinthians Association, visit thecorinthians.org. See you on the water!

Quality Cruising Yachts | Deltaville, VA

Join Us on a Voyage of Discovery

By Ross Rosiak

As we set sail into a new season with the Pentagon Sailing Club, we look forward to a wealth of adventures, from leisurely cruises along the coast to exhilarating regattas that test our skills and spirit of camaraderie. But it’s not just about the thrill of the open water; it’s about the connections we forge and the memories we create along the way.

Our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering growth is at the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re learning the ropes for the first time or seeking to refine your sailing techniques, our dedicated team of instructors is here to guide you every step of the way. Plus, we’re proud to be the largest supplier of skippers to the Naval Academy sailing program, ensuring that our expertise is recognized and valued at the highest levels.

Chesapeake Bristol Club (CBC) celebrates its 50th anniversary sailing season on the Bay throughout 2024.

A group of nine CBC stalwarts descended on Eggcellence Restaurant in Annapolis on May 2 for the second pre-season breakfast this year—both hosted by Pete Madden and Mickey Doran.

As was the many-years tradition for this breakfast, Mickey Doran hosted a nautical quiz of 10 questions pertaining to the Chesapeake Bay. Ted Reinhold and Val Taliaferro tied in the first round. A tie breaker was won by Ted, who received a book prize, In the Heart of the Sea, donated by Mickey.

Upcoming events include: June 14-16 in Oxford, MD, a CBC Raftup with the Dick-

All Are Welcome

erson Owner Association (DOA) and the Chesapeake Classic Sailboat Rendezvous; June 22 on the Magothy River, a Summer Sailstice Shore Party Rendezvous. Bristol sailboats on the Chesapeake Bay is the club’s nostalgic heritage, and building our Bristol fleet continues to be a club goal; however, membership is open to all who enjoy sailing. The CBC is a social and sailing club with no clubhouse, a yearround calendar of events, and the cost of membership is minimal.

In addition to our dedication to training excellence, we’re thrilled to offer ASA (American Sailing Association) classes, providing you with top-notch instruction and internationally recognized certification. At the heart of our club lies a dedication to excellence in racing, showcased by our renowned racing squadron. Our squadron is a force to be reckoned with on the water, consistently competing at the highest levels and bringing home victory after victory.

This year, we’re delighted to announce an extraordinary sailing trip to Greece, an experience of a lifetime! Beyond the sailboat, the Pentagon Sailing Club is a tight-knit community where friendships flourish and laughter echoes through the clubhouse. From lively social gatherings to impromptu beachside bonfires, there’s always something happening to bring members together and celebrate our shared love of the sea. So, come aboard and join us on this voyage of discovery! Whether you seek adventure, camaraderie, or simply a moment of serenity amidst the chaos of the world, you’ll find it here with the Pentagon Sailing Club. Learn more at pentagonsailing.org.

To be a member you don’t have to own a Bristol (or any boat). Dues are still only $45 per year. Cruise to cbclub.info to join, inquire, or RSVP to any event this year. Use the email link on the “Joining” page to reach membership director Rebecca Burka at rebecca.burka@gmail.com.

New Burgee With Modern Ties

The Bridge of the Indian Creek Yacht Club is excited to announce the release of a new burgee, officially released on January 1, just in time to start the new year off with its brand new and modern look.

The new design, created by members Alan Pitts, Lou Frank, and Craig Kelly presents Indian Creek Yacht & Country Club’s white heron on the red color of the old burgee in the shape of an arrowhead adjacent to the club’s signature color blue. The new design reflects elements of the club’s past with the inclusion of the arrowhead; its present with the introduction of the heron (which was recently adopted by Indian Creek as its primary symbol), and the blue background representing a brilliant future for the club.

The membership at the annual meeting applauded the update, announced by retiring commodore Brian Clarke. “I knew years ago that the yacht club was ready to have its flag refreshed. It took quite some time to consider more than 15 designs and the help of all 13 past commodores to approve one. I couldn’t be happier with the result.”

Club members are now officially flying the new burgee on their boats for the season, which officially opened at the annual Flag Raising and Blessing of the Fleet on May 17. Learn more about Indian Creek Yacht Club at icycc.com.

# ICYC sailing master Debby Hoyt, port captain David Forsyth, fleet captain Steve Young, commodore Randy Graham, vice commodore Bob Young, past commodore Brian Clarke, secretary Kathryn Wainscott, and rear commodore Lou Frank.

Quality Cruising Yachts | Deltaville, VA

SOS Prepares for a Season of Cruising

By Janet Gonski

We all hope never to have to shoot off a flare or put out a stove-top fire with a fire blanket, but it is surely important to know how to accomplish both of those in an emergency. With our Singles on Sailboats (SOS) Flare and Safety Morning, participants had opportunities to learn the PASS technique with a fire extinguisher, set an anchor, safely wind a winch, drag in a line, coil and throw a line to another boat or person, and several other skills.

With activity stations set up throughout the beach area at Camp Letts, more than 70 members of our SOS club practiced or reviewed critical boating safety skills as they traveled between positions. More than 40 of the participants joined the club since the last sailing season, so it was a great chance to meet others and to learn more about how SOS does things such as

anchoring and rafting boats, whether in a linear or circle raft. The morning activities were followed by an afternoon of dockside training where members visit a veteran skipper’s boat and practice knots and learn nautical terms and sailing techniques.

This is all in preparation for a sailing season scheduled with 89 possible days of cruising opportunities on either a day sail or weekend sail, usually in a Chesapeake creek or river, including an extended 14day sail to the Southern Bay. Our summer cruising also includes three shore party weekends with catered food and music, a four-night cruise to the Eastern Shore

Here’s to Our Skippers!

By Mary Ann Gordon

The Sailing Club, Inc has been providing sailing and social opportunities on sailing trips around the world for more than 40 years. A foundational structure of rules and policies, created back in 1983 and improved over time, is at the core of that success.

There is a lot of time and care that goes into training club skippers. Becoming a club skipper takes patience, good communications skills, a deep knowledge of sailing, conflict resolution, and, quite often, a great sense of humor. Safety is always the first consideration, whether the decision is to tack, where to anchor, or a query from crew about a walk into town before leaving the dock. The skipper’s decision-making process must include the realities of the planned sail and an attempt to keep the crew happy at the same time.

To ensure that candidates for club skipper have all the necessary skills

cities of Oxford and Tripp, and our annual trek to the St. Michaels Oyster Fest.

The new members who came through my training station during the Flare and Safety Morning were very animated as they chatted about which cruises they would sign up for. Will we see you, too? Learn more about SOS at singlesonsailboats.org.

and some tried and true practices, the club’s training process requires that each candidate receives mentoring and guidance while acting in the role of skipper on several club trips. Mentored and observed by a senior skipper, the candidate acts as the skipper and makes navigation plans, advises crew on daily responsibilities, and delegates or deals with all boat tasks. After two letters of recommendation and board approval, candidates become club certified skippers.

Our club has both experienced sailors and those totally new to sailing. Therefore, club skippers need to be able to mentor and guide new sailors, as well as shift gears to allow more experienced sailors the collaborative environment needed to expand their knowledge. It is a fantastic oppor-

tunity for those who enjoy sailing and sharing their knowledge with others.

The club’s most valuable asset is our skippers. Our outstanding safety record is because of them. Newer club members have frequently pointed out how safe they felt at all times due to the skipper. More experienced sailors enjoy taking the helm of different boats and learning new skills from our skippers. Learn more about our club at thesailingclub.org

# Singles on Sailboats club members practicing line tossing skills.

Photo by John Parsons

What Is a Nurdle?

By Carol Hanson

• A small invasive marsupial from Australia

• Those fuzzy things under your bed

• A small plastic pellet

• A cheese flavored snack

If you answered “3” you are correct! A nurdle is a plastic pellet which serves as raw material in the manufacturing of plastic products. Nurdles are washing up on our beaches, riverbanks, and lake shorelines by the millions.

In early May, members of America’s Boating Club Wilmington enjoyed an informative powerpoint presentation by fellow member and University of Delaware Environmental Biology Professor Lynn Mahaffy, PhD. After a thorough introduction to the how, where, when, and why

nurdles have become a major concern for our waterways, including the Delaware River and Chesapeake Bay, members ventured from the New Castle Sailing Club house to Battery Park on the Delaware River. Among more than a dozen members searching a small area of the beach, the group found over 100 nurdles in about 20 minutes! Unfortunately, the plastic pellets

look like tasty morsels to fish and birds. Consequently, they are deadly for the wildlife that ingest them. To learn more about nurdles and how you can help, visit nurdlepatrol.org. 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.

# Our small group found more than 100 nurdles in about 20 minutes!

Quality Cruising Yachts | Deltaville, VA

Sailing Into a Busy Regatta Season

Cambridge Yacht Club (CYC) has set sail into summer with a busy schedule of racing, regattas, and events on and off the water. We are also looking forward to again hosting the many cruise-ins from yacht clubs along the Chesapeake Bay.

In April, CYC was honored to host famed solo racer Peter Gibbons-Neff, Jr., who gave a presentation on his recent solo race across the Atlantic. A lifelong sailor with a passion for ocean racing, Gibbons-

Neff has more than 20,000 nautical miles of offshore experience.

On May 18, Commissioning Day marked the official start of the 113th boating season at Cambridge Yacht Club. Racing season will kick off with the Admiral Byrd Regatta (Hamptons, Shields, Penguins, Comets, and Lasers), which has been moved to July 13-14 to make it more convenient for families that sail the smaller boats. The regatta is named for famed explorer Admiral Robert Byrd, who often visited Cambridge while procuring supplies for his expeditions. Admiral Byrd presented the trophy at CYC’s inaugural East Coast Championship race for Hamptons in 1947 and three more times between 1947 and 1950.

LThe Governor Hicks Log Canoe Races will be held August 17-18, and plans are in place for the third year of the Annapolis to Cambridge (A2C) Lighthouse Challenge on August 24 for cruising and racing boats. The A2C race is sponsored by CYC and the Eastport Yacht Club.

The Club is also working with Navy Sailing and Tred Avon Yacht Club to host the Navy’s Fall Race from Annapolis to Cambridge on September 7. This is one of the larger races on the Chesapeake Bay.

On the Choptank River, CYC offers Wednesday night racing in partnership with ESSA, as well as a popular Thursday Night Adult Sail for dinghies. In addition, this year, the Club has debuted a new Classic Sail for wooden and classic boats on Thursdays and has organized a Cruising Fleet for powerboaters to convene in a casual setting and explore the water together.

For more information about upcoming CYC races, regattas, and other events, visit cambridgeyachtclub.com.

Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake

et the sailing season begin!

Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake (CBCC) had a great start with our very first on-water event, the “Get R Done” raftup. It was held on Saturday, May 4 and 5 in Eagle Cove off of the Magothy River.

We had a wonderful turnout with eight boats signing up for the shakedown. Many thanks to Rich Tull for organizing the outing and to the captains and crew attending. Special thanks to Sean Hollis for hosting a rainy happy hour and kudos to Brad Ebright for traveling 80 miles roundtrip to join us.

The inaugural CBCC Spring Cruise begins June 2 in Rock Hall, MD, and ends in the South River on June 8. We have many boats signed up and several other members signed up for crewing or driving to Rock Hall and St. Michaels to join in for dinners and happy

By Susan Theuns

hours. Fingers crossed for good weather. For July, member Sean Hollis is working on a three- to four-day “Three Ws MiniCruise” that involves Wind, Wooden Canoes, and Wine. More to come next month with details of the cruise and updates for summer events.

Not a member yet? 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!

# A rainy happy hour aboard Boheme for the Get R Done raftup.

# Working on one of the club’s Lasers: Willem Zijp, Franco Primavesi, Steve Van Dorpe, Will Telligman, and Liam Telligman, who will be participating in Junior Sail camp this summer.

# Back Creek Yacht Club members Leila Wagner and Laura Treuth. The June club cruise departs Annapolis for the West River, then crosses the Bay to the Little Choptank, Choptank, and Tred Avon Rivers and San Domingo Creek. backcreekyc.org

# Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club members enjoy a “Tasting” under the St. Michaels Lighthouse. Last month members joined a Wye River multi-club raftup. A summer Sailstice event and five-week Bay cruise are planned for June. cbtsc.org

# Chesapeake Bay Sabre Association has seven rendezvous planned. For information, email suzannegwhitney@gmail.com or visit cbsa.clubexpress.com

# Hunter Sailboat Association, Station 1 members participated in the Clubs Booth at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show and gathered for dinner at Latitude 38 Restaurant in Annapolis. Learn more at hsa1.org

# Liam Telligman, who will be participating in the Cambridge

Send your club’s notes and photos to beth@spinsheet.com

Yacht Club Junior Sail Camp this summer, helps sand one of the club’s Carolina Skiffs.

Youth Sailing Program Q&A

Parents have questions. We have answers!

This month we kick off a series of youth sailing articles, beginning with answers to a half dozen questions commonly asked by parents who are new to the youth sailing scene. Stay tuned in the coming months for more on youth sailing news, including coach and sailor interviews and regatta reviews. If you know an inspirational coach or youth sailor that you think should be featured on this page, email beth@spinsheet.com with your ideas.

Six questions answered:

Do we have to buy a boat?

Good news! You do not need to buy a boat for your child to participate in the exciting sport of sailing. Introductory programs at sailing schools and clubs provide boats for beginners and offer plenty of opportunities for kids to build their skills aboard such boats. However, down the road, if a young sailor progresses into youth racing, all teams will require you to either charter a boat from the club or own your own boat. Do kids need to know how to swim?

Since sailing involves being on the water, feeling comfortable in the water is important for safety reasons and for kids to enjoy their time on the water. If your child isn’t yet a confident or proficient swimmer, it’s best to ask about the expectations at any program you’re considering. Some camps administer a swim test at the beginning to ensure everyone’s safety throughout the program. All reputable programs will require that sailing students (of any age) wear lifejackets, regardless of their swimming ability.

Are kids grouped by age or ability?

Sailing programs are designed to serve a wide range of participants. They typically group children by age and skill level, ensuring that each child is in a class that suits their abilities. From introductory to advanced, including race teams, there’s a class for everyone. Parents are encouraged to communicate with the program organizers to assess the best fit for their child’s age and abilities. Youth

program administrators are adept at grouping young sailors in ways that promote skill building while also ensuring an enjoyable experience for the kids.

What kind of gear will my

child need?

To get started, you only need a few essentials: a well-fitting US Coast Guard-approved lifejacket, a hat, sunglasses, close-toed shoes (water shoes or sneakers), and sunscreen. While most programs will provide a recommended gear list, these basics will ensure you are ready to go.

Lifejackets are usually provided for introductory classes, but if your child already has one that they like and it is the proper style and fit, they can bring it from home.

As their sailing adventures expand beyond the summer season, they will need additional gear to accommodate colder environments. Program coaches and veteran parents are available to help.

# Rock Hall Yacht Club Sailing School/Facebook

# Photo by Will Keyworth for Hampton Yacht Club

What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

Instructors purposefully introduce young kids to sailing slowly so that they always feel secure and don’t get scared. When it is blowing 15 knots, it’s not the best day for most young beginners to be on the water. There will be days when the littles stay onshore while older kids go out on boats. Trust the instructors to know how much wind your child is ready to experience. Everyone wants to ensure your child has the best possible experience on the water. Given the variable nature of weather, youth sailing programs have lots of experience with contingency plans that keep kids entertained. Instructors are prepared to facilitate onshore learning, activities, and games when it is stormy. On the other hand, they are equally prepared for entertaining instruction and games, both on and off boats, when there’s no wind. Although you don’t need to worry about kids sailing in hazardous conditions, most programs will sail in light rain. Send a rain jacket!

How do kids progress from learning to sail to learning to race?

Transitioning from learn-to-sail to learning to race is an exciting journey. Race teams are typically formed by invitation or through tryouts. If your child is interested in joining, we encourage you to communicate their interests and goals with your coaches. They can provide valuable insight into the selection process and guide your child on what they can do to be invited to join the team.

Did we miss a question that you’d like answered? Mail it to beth@spinsheet.com

# Annapolis Sailing School/Facebook

Annapolis Sailors Dominate the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta

Some still call it the NOOD; others have switched to the Helly. No matter what they call it, the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series (HHSW), May 3-5, brought three days of wind to Annapolis. Although some of the 219 competing teams traveled from as far at Texas, Florida, or Canada, Annapolis sailors dominated the podium.

Not only did Annapolis sailor Cate Muller-Terhune top the 25-boat J/70 fleet on Casting Couch and not only was she the overall regatta winner, but her team was chosen (randomly) to sail in the HHSW Caribbean Championship in the fall. What a weekend!

Although the skipper admits she could have done without the rain and 55-degree Saturday weather, she says, “The conditions were a blast… the strong easterly isn’t something that happens here very often, so that made for some fun racing with no huge local knowledge advantage. Downwind was fun, especially the times where there were planing conditions. It was a fun racecourse!”

Allan Terhune, Dave Hughes, and Collin Kirby rounded out the Casting Couch crew.

Muller-Terhune says, “The four of us had never sailed together before. I’ve sailed with Allan, he has sailed with Collin, and Allan and Dave won two worlds in different classes over the last two years. I think when you bring together a group of really talented people, a big hurdle can be communication; we

did that really well. The conditions were shifty, and the pressure was changing all the time, so communicating how we were changing things from a trim perspective and a driving perspective was important to keep the boat moving fast.”

As for crew performance, she says, “There are always moments and opportunities to be better. We had some of those and made a conscious effort to augment and change things. The class is so competitive at the top end that you have to take every advantage out on the water to push yourself to be better.”

The shore events “were great as always, and we had so much fun hanging out with our friends… Our race committee was

great. It was a challenging weekend with a lot of boats on our course (the largest circle at the event) and a change mark that wasn’t inflating, but they managed and got off a bunch of great races, which is what matters!”

Jimmy Praley and his team of Austin Powers and Max Vinocur on the Viper 640 Robot Flamingo continued their winning streak in the 24-boat fleet, thereby winning the Viper Atlantic Coast Championship.

Praley says, “We were a bit on the lighter side compared to other teams, so our upwind speed wasn’t perfect in the breeze; however, we sailed in a lot of breeze over the winter, so our technique

# Allan Terhune, AYC Rear Commodore Ted Kaczmarski, winning J/70 skipper Cate Muller-Terhune, and Collin Kirby.

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

and knowledge of rig set up helped a ton. Downwind we felt particularly quick in all conditions.”

What did his team do well? “We are constantly adjusting controls depending on how the breeze varies. We never sit and wait for something to change. We always act immediately, which tends to give us a brief speed advantage. Tactically, it was difficult out there with an easterly breeze, but Austin and Max kept us in the pressure as much as possible. We also tried to stay honest on the compass numbers by staying on the lifted board upwind and headed one downwind.”

After a tough first race on the final day, the team almost blew their lead. Praley says, “We have been in that position before, so we knew we just had to let it go and push forward to the next race. That has taken a bit of time for us to develop, but we now know that even when we have a bad one, we can come right back from it.”

Sarah Alexander and her team on More Cowbell proved victorious in the 26-boat J/80 one-design fleet. Jonathan Bartlett, Katja Sertl, Ginny Mininger, and Sarah Russell comprised the team.

Alexander says, “Jonathan, Katja, Sarah R, and Ginny are all wonderful people with the perfect demeanor for a regatta like this… I knew before sailing with him that Jonathan would be an amazing tactician, and he was. He kept our races simple and clean and made it easy to sail the boat well while minimizing mistakes.”

She credits her kite/jib trimmer, Sertl, for going fast on the downwind legs. “Katja also took on a lot of responsibility with preparing the boat and learning about our rig tune and electronics… Ginny and Sarah took care of all the thankless tasks on the front of the boat, and they made it look so easy. Our sets and douses were clean, and they were always looking around the boat to take care of anything that might be able to go wrong… everyone was level-headed and positive throughout the weekend. I think when I look back on this regatta, I’ll remember how much fun I had with the crew. I couldn’t have asked for better people to sail with!”

Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Results

Alberg 30 (6 Boats)

1. Laughing Gull, Patrick Seidel

2. Windswept, Lanny Helms

3. Argo, T.C. Williams

J/22 (15 Boats)

1. Hot Toddy, Jeffrey Todd

2. WHAT? NoooWaaay, Todd Hiller

3. Baby Doll, Glenn Darden

J/24 (5 Boats)

1. Hillman Capital Management, Mark Hillman

2. Rush Hour, Pat FitzGeral

3. Buxton, Peter Rich

Albacore - North American Championship (19 Boats)

1. Gale Warning, Barney Harris

2. Lucky Jador, Stephanie Mah

3. Fire and Ice, Paul Clifford

WASZP (9 Boats)

1. WPG Canada, Adrien De Pas

1. Red Rocket, Shane Kilberg

1. USA3535, Daniel Draper

Melges 15 (12 Boats)

1. BrewJax, Britton Steele

2. Electric Pickle, Mike Schroff

3. Between the Sheets, Madeleine Schroeher

Etchells (5 Boats)

1. Caramba, Gregory Hryniewicz

2. Cash Money, Matt Lalumiere

3. USA 1007, Rob Hoffman

J/30 - East Coast Championship (7 Boats)

1. Bebop, Bob Rutsch and Mike Costello

2. Avita, Dan Watson

3. Avenger, David Johnson

Viper 640 - Atlantic Coast Championship (24 Boats)

1. Robot Flamingo, Jimmy Praley

2. Glory Days, Jay Rhame/ Peter Beardsley/ Rachel Beardsley

3. Sidewinder, Travis Yates/Dave Hillmyer/Jeff Eiber

J/70 (World Qualifier) (25 Boats)

1. Casting Couch, Cate Muller-Terhune

2. Hedgehog, Alec Cutler

3. Savasana, Brian Keane

J/80 (26 Boats)

1. More Cowbell, Sarah Alexander

2. Kopp-Out (aka The Lasso Way), Thomas and Jennifer Kopp

3. Scamp, J.R. Maxwell

J/88 (7 Boats)

1. Church Key, Chris and Liz Chadwick

2. Whirlwind, William Purdy

3. Hiwassee, John Bell

J/105 (24 Boats)

1. Patriot, Ray Wulff

2. Mayhem, Doug Stryker

3. Velvet Hammer, Brian and Kristen Robinson

Beneteau First SE (3 Boats)

1. JEF, Sebastien Vallee

2. The Electric Mayhem, Pete Lalli

3. Hydra, Todd McCurdy

Cal 25 (7 Boats)

1. Fahrvergnugen, Alisa Finney

2. Love Shack, Barton Goldenberg

3. White Cap, Dan Buan

ORC (7 Boats)

1. Zuul, Benedict Capuco

2. Time Machine, Bruce Irvin

3. Aunt Jean, James Sagerholm/ AJ Syndicate

Harbor 20 (18 Boats)

1. Trinity, Ed Holt

2. Yellow Jacket, Scholz Sullivan

Syndicate

3. Puffin, Bell Carty

Find Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta photos at spinsheet.com/photos

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

Alexander also expressed gratitude for her dad, “our biggest cheerleader,” who polished the boat.

For the second year in a row, Ray Wulff placed first in the 24-boat J/105 fleet aboard Patriot. He sailed with Dawn Forsberg, Tyler Raven, Mike Komar, Jamie Gilman, and Sam Vineyard.

Wulff notes the “tough” conditions: “The wind direction and current were very different from normal. We had to kind of forget any local knowledge and really keep our head out of the boat… every race had a story of chipping away one boat at a time and not taking any big risks. Mike Komar kept us going fast throughout the

RaCinG Results

regatta, so that was definitely a key to the win.”

“Keeping it light” was critical for the Patriot team. “We went after the Mount Gay Rum Cocktail Contest with a vengeance and laughter.” They won!

Barney Harris (Arlington, VA) topped the 19-boat Albacore fleet, winning the North American Championship. He sailed with David Byron (Berkeley, CA).

“In a prior life David and I actively campaigned the Albacore for a 20-year period from 1995 until 2015. Now we only get to sail with one another once or twice a year.”

As Sailing World noted, Harris builds Albacores and owns five of them.

He told SpinSheet, “The Albacore does well in all conditions. It’s extraordinarily seaworthy and capable in the breeze, as the rig is highly adjustable, so crews can match the power to the available righting moment. In lighter

Each month during racing season, SpinSheet will bring you the weekly Racing Results presented by Mount Gay Rum, an email summary of race result links from Chesapeake regattas and significant out-of-town regattas Bay sailors love.

announcing our new Mount Gay Rum Red Hat Photo of the Week contest

Each week throughout the racing season a Mount Gay prize will be awarded to the best (chosen by our editors) Mount Gay red hat photo mailed to editor@spinsheet.com, and every week the winning photo will be included in SpinSheet’s racing results email. Photo of the year wins a Mount Gay Duffle from Sea Bags! EntEr today!

Get Chesapeake Bay racing results delivered to your inbox every Monday! Scan QR to sign up for our weekly emails or visit spinsheet.com/email-signup

# Sarah Alexander on the J/80 More Cowbell proved victorious in the 26-boat class.

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

conditions the easily driven hull, devoid of chines or skegs, maneuvers efficiently and roll tacks well.”

Harris says, “Albacores have not sailed in Annapolis for years. Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC) was welcoming and gracious in hosting the entire 18-boat Albacore fleet, their trailers, and gear on their grounds for the event. This gave us a front row seat for the post racing socials.”

Pat Seidel and his team aboard the Alberg 30 Laughing Gull placed first. The Witch’s Flower team acted as his crew: Michael Johns, his sons Matt and Josh, Barbara Ewing, and Jeff Johnson.

Seidel chalks up the team’s performance as “flawless precision… The crew, especially Josh on the bow, is like watching an intricate ballet where everything is precisely choreographed. Even when we needed to change the plan, the crew continued to roll right into the new direction. For this regatta I tended more towards the port tack layline for the weather mark pretty much giving Josh no time to set up. No problem. We were always ready to set at the offset mark.”

Bell Carty, who placed third on Puffin in the 19-boat Harbor 20 fleet, won the Sportsmanship Award for her efforts to successfully bring the fleet into the regatta. Ed Holt, who won the Harbor 20 fleet on Trinity, sailed with his grandson Tyler. The team was awarded the Top Junior Team.

SpinSheet heard nothing but overwhelmingly positive comments about the race committees whose volunteers worked hard in challenging conditions and communicated well with racing sailors. Thank you to RC volunteers from host club AYC as well as the Eastport Yacht Club and Severn Sailing Association who made up the village it took to produce this memorable spring event.

Find photos at spinsheet.com/ photos

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# Barney Harris in Albacore Gale Warning (#8261) in the lead. Photos by Will Keyworth

Spectacular Racing in Charleston

Charleston: a wonderful place to completely turn off before turning onto some of the nation’s most challenging sailing conditions, to get excited for sailing season, see your friends, escape the cold, and simply have a great time, all at Charleston Race Week (CRW). This year’s event unfolded April 18-21, with the USS Yorktown as party central.

On Sunday, race committees on all three inside circles executed two races

in variable conditions for all one-design fleets. Classes on Circle 1 (Melges 20, J/24, J/22) completed eight races, (PHRF Inshore sailed seven races), Circle 2 (Melges 24, J/70, VX One) sailed seven races, Circle 3 (J/88, Melges 32, J/105, ORC D) all completed six races for the regatta. In the Offshore Racing Pursuit division distance courses were sailed for Non-Spinnaker, Spinnaker A, B, and C classes who enjoyed solid racing in a range of conditions.

The 28th edition of the “regatta like no other” came through for some 180 boats racing in 16 classes, with multiple lead changes determining final places right up until the last race.

For Chris Chadwick and his crew on the J/88 Church Key, tied for first after the first race on day three, it was a nail-biting finish for the Annapolis, MD, team all the way to the end.

“It was spectacular. It was incredibly tight racing,” Chadwick said.

# Chris Chadwick’s winning J/88 Church Key team in action.

# Ian Hill’s Melges 32 Sitella placed second.

# Charleston makes a great backdrop for Nathan Bresett’s Canadian team.

# Clarke McKinney’s Solomons-based Melges 32 Wild Horses team. Photos by Priscilla Parker

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He and his wife Liz made a week of it, combining a trip to Lynchburg to watch their daughter play lacrosse and renting a Charleston house near the beach with a pool. Their team was comprised of Riley Chadwick, Henry Filter, Todd Hiller, Tom Murray, and Kristen Robinson.

Chris Chadwick says, “The first race, the first start, we had a perfect start at the boat. We had the fleet rolling… at the first mark, the first douse went horribly wrong. The second race we came back second and continued to get better through the regatta. We landed in first at the end of the second day. The third day had lighter air and a different wind direction. Racing was tighter. We had two boats we had to worry about (Whirlwind and Albondigas). Whirlwind won.

“Going into the last race, we were tied with Billy Purdy on Whirlwind (great guy, great team). We were like ‘let’s go!’ The last race was essentially match racing with each other.”

After some lead changes, “We were able to climb up about a boat length. He went one way downwind; we went the other way. Our way worked. It was pretty awesome! It was also my first win in Charleston.”

Chadwick and his team enjoyed the new venue: “It’s different. Since it’s down in the hanger, you don’t have the open sky as we used to on the beach, but the folks at the aircraft carrier treated everyone really well and they did a nice job.”

Another outstanding Chesapeake finish came from Ian Hill and his Hampton, VA-based team on the Melges 32 Sitella, who placed second only one point behind division winners Terry McSweeney and Trey Sheehan on Flat Stanley Racing. Solomons sailors David and Jacki Meiser on One Trick Pony and Clarke McKinney on Wild Horses also competed in the 10-boat fleet.

Jib Edwards and his team Riaz Latifah, Casey Firth, and Alli Gutenkunst on the J/70 Wicked placed second in the Mixed Plus division.

The Palmetto Cup for the most competitive handicap fleet went to Bottle Rocket, the Cheetah 30 sailed by a group of great friends: Jay Greenfield, Nick Johnstone, and Nate Fast,

who took two bullets to win the class. The Sportsmanship Award went to the Bermuda 40 Custom Yawl Lioness, owned and skippered by Sheldon Haynie racing in Pursuit Spinnaker C.

That’s it for Charleston Race Week 2024. See you April 10-13, 2025, for the 29th edition of the “regatta like no other!” Learn more at charlestonraceweek.com

Wardrup Memorial Saturday Aug. 10th & Sunday Aug. 11th, 2024

Saturday: Little Creek, VA to Cape Charles, VA Post-race dinner on Saturday evening at beautiful Oyster Farm Marina at Kings Creek! Sunday: Cape Charles, VA to Buckroe Beach, VA

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Southern Bay Race Week Is in Full Swing!

By Lin McCarthy

The deliveries have been made. Southern Bay Race Week (SBRW) race boats are tucked in slips, rafted off piers, or waiting to be launched from trailers at Hampton Yacht Club (HYC), the regatta headquarters. The boats doing the Down the Bay Race on Memorial Day weekend, have been “resting” at HYC or at a local homeport marina before rigging up and shifting gears to engage the competition at SBRW.

Thursday of SBRW is shown on schedules as Opening/Registration/Welcome. It is also when the emphasis is on renewing old friendships and building new ones. The competitor’s return rate is high at SBRW. The delight of catching lines for an old friend as he pulls in is evident up and down the docks. Sharing lunch or a Dark ‘n’ Stormy after picking up bow numbers is de rigueur. The chatter volume at the Dockside Lounge and all over the club property intensifies as the afternoon moves toward the formal check-in and the evening social and skippers meeting in the regatta tents.

SBRW has a rhythm of its own. On Opening Night there exists a slow and gentle vibe that will build inexorably each following day, as races are raced, scores tallied, and seadog legends born and refined. The racing and the socializ-

ing are among friends who share SBRW as part of their racing history. A quick scan of the regatta scratch sheet shows that annually approximately 75 percent of the SBRW fleet are returnees from a previous year, many from multiple previous years.

It could be that the high return rate is the secret sauce of SBRW. Certainly, the degree of comfort most of the racers, both skippers and crew, experience with the surroundings is contagious. “Old

hands” are not the least bit reluctant to share “insider” information with newcomers, except, of course, the favored side of the first beat! And, HYC volunteers and others who give their time to SBRW are familiar faces and have a pretty high return rate themselves.

The origin of SBRW goes all the way back prior to 1986 when the format of the regatta had the fleet sailing the first leg from Hampton to Seaford Yacht Club, overnighting at SYC, and racing the second leg to York River Yacht Club at York River Yacht Haven on Sarah’s Creek at the foot of the Coleman Bridge. They raced the final leg from YRYC to Hampton, finishing in the harbor after battling the seemingly always adverse current at #22 off the Fort Monroe Seawall. That same #22 is still today a legendary nemesis to Southern Bay racers!

However, times and circumstances changed, and SBRW changed with them. With the growing popularity of windward/leeward racecourses, the date is debatable, but circa 1990, SBRW moved to Hampton for all three days of the event. HYC, Old Point Comfort

# Mike Veraldi, skipper/helm, brings his J/24 Quicky and crew to SBRW every year.

# Integrity will be back at SBRW 2024 with a whole new crew of USNA Midshipmen. The J/36 Sea Star is now sailed by David Bouchard and has been renamed Bumps, in honor of her previous skipper, Bumps Eberwine.

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Yacht Club, and CCV Racing serve as the official organizing authority, with HYC tapped as regatta headquarters.

SBRW event chairman Jack Pope and his army of race officials, volunteer

oyster Bay High school sailor, Julia Milos first stepped on a sailboat 3 years ago, a Match 40. Today she’s the crew boss and tactician. She skipped dinghies to hop straight into big boat racing thanks to the incredible training opportunities at oakcliff.

In school her one of her favorite subjects is art. Just like sailing, she excels and recently won Best In Show at the Heckscher Art Museum.

“I love both being on the water and sharing my experience with other people through my art. It helps more people from my community understand what sailing is all about.”

shoreside supporters, and HYC staff offer a hearty “Welcome!” to local participants as well as those from beyond the Southern Bay. Come-backers and newbies will all have a good time. Everything happens

along with eating, drinking, dancing, and socializing at a bodacious pace for the three days and four nights of a gathering called SBRW 2024! Learn more at hamptonyc.com

www.OakCliffSailing.Org To learn more about Oakcliff and to join us in

# Tom Connors, far right/pink cap, sailed with friends in SBRW 2010. He now serves on SBRW race committee.

# SBRW regular Craig Wright, skipper of J/109 Afterthought, accepts the Black Seal Cup at SBRW 2011 from event chair Jack Pope.

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Sunny Race in Light Breeze to Oxford

About 40 competing boats started off Annapolis for the Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC) Spring Race to Oxford on Saturday, May 11. Not much breeze showed up on a sunny race day (which is why eight dropped out by the end), but an ebb current nudged race boats down the Bay to the Choptank. Find Will Keyworth’s photographs at spinsheet.com/photos

Race to Oxford Results

ORC 1 (11 Boats)

1. Ma’m’selle, Ed Hartman

2. Skadi, Todd Berget

3. Windborn, Richard Born

ORC 2 (11 Boats)

1. USA38, John and Kevin White

2. Rattle N Rum, Chuck Shortz

3. Nicole, Thomas Campbell

ORC Performance Cruiser (10 Boats)

1. Alaris, Nick Iliff

2. Cordelia, Nicklaus Simpson

3. Salty, William Savage Jr.

PHRF A (3 Boats)

1. NautiGirl, Rob Galbraith

2. Graybeard, Bill Walczak

Offshore Racers Head for Bermuda in June

Two biennial ocean races that are popular with Chesapeake racers unfold in the month of June, starting with the Mustang Survival Annapolis to Bermuda Race (A2B) which starts off Annapolis June 7 and ends several days later at the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club. Eastport Yacht Club (EYC) has hosted and will host many events surrounding this event, starting the year before with happy hours and seminars on subjects ranging from onboard data management to racing tactics to weather briefings.

At print time, a small, yet mighty group of 18 competing boats had registered for the 735-nautical-mile race that is often portrayed as two separate events: the leg down the Chesapeake Bay and the one offshore to Bermuda, both with unique challenges.

The 2022 event was “not as the brochure said it would be,” so rather than being an off-the-wind race, it ended up being upwind for the entire ocean leg. Fingers crossed for better conditions for the 2024 event.

Spectators may enjoy the pre-race parade on June 7 from EYC around the

mooring field in Annapolis. Expect bagpipes! The first warning signal will be at 1:30 p.m. in the vicinity of “R2” in the Bay off the mouth of the Severn River. Find results and photos in our July issue and more racer reports in August. Learn more at bermudaoceanrace.com.

Organized by the Bermuda Race Foundation, the 636-mile biennial Newport Bermuda Race is the oldest regularly scheduled ocean race and one of very few international distance races. The Bermuda Race is one of just two of the world’s regularly scheduled races held almost entirely out of sight of land, the second being the Transpac. Founded in 1906, the 53rd running of the Bermuda Race is scheduled for June 21. For the first time in the 118-year history of the event, the start will be just off the shoreline allowing for public viewing at Fort Adams State Park.

At print time, 163 boats had registered for the “Thrash to the Onion Patch,” including a few from the Bay who’ve been successful in the past, such as Glenn Doncaster on Nanuq and Will Passano on Polaris, and a few who have

# The Naval Academy’s Integrity at the start of the 2022 A2B Race. Photo by Al Schreitmueller

competed and won their class in the A2B, such as Robert Dunigan on Jane Says and Lynn McClaskey on Cimarron. Stay tuned to our August issue for results and analysis. Learn more at bermudarace.com/2024-race.

# Ed Hartman’s winning Ma’m’selle at the AYC Spring Race to Oxford. Photo by Will Keyworth

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The Continuing “Firsts” of the HHSA Women’s Regatta

The Herrington Harbour Sailing Association’s (HHSA) Women’s Regatta is my favorite event of the whole racing season. I am probably a little biased, but rightly so. My first HHSA Women’s Regatta was the first time I experienced confidence in my racing ability, and for that matter, this whole sailing thing I had taken on as a late-in-life sailor. I had not raced outside Baltimore Harbor and didn’t have much racing experience. I signed up not knowing anyone, hoping to be accepted on a boat and hoping I could offer something as crew. I used the HHSA crew board to find a boat and quiet those inner voices that wondered if I was ready. Besides the friendships and connections I made that day, I also found my confidence and my passion for sailing and racing with women.

I wasn’t alone. Maryline O’Shea, skipper of Chanceuse shared, “I skippered my Beneteau 45 in my first race in the 2022 regatta. This being my first year racing, I felt both unprepared and inexperienced to take on the challenge. That is when I realized this was my best chance to acquire that experience in a supporting environment. Through one of the Regatta Prep Zoom calls, I gathered a group of women, some new to racing, some more experienced, and some of whom I had never met.

“We had a great time and met the three goals I had set for our crew: 1) sail the course in the right direction, 2) have fun, and 3) preferably, not finish last. I enjoyed the race so much that we sailed it again in 2023. This time we raced with my new code zero headsail. We fumbled the first turn of the course under the big sail; it was quickly stashed below, not to be hoisted again that day! Only those who do not try won’t fail. My goals are different for 2024. I want to bring as many women new to racing as possible. The objective is still the same: having fun and running the course in the right direction. Finishing order won’t matter at all.”

Elaine Santucci sails at the Downtown Sailing Center in Baltimore and says, “I’m

By Suzanne Carter

super excited to crew for my first HHSA Women’s Regatta—my first big boat event—because it presents an opportunity to expand my sailing horizons and sailing network and is an extension, to me, of the Women on the Water program that the Downtown Sailing Center conducts. I love learning and hearing the perspectives and experiences of other women who sail.”

This is also Beth Fincham’s first Women’s Regatta: “As a new racer, I’m looking forward to getting more experience at a larger event, and it will be my first time racing outside of Baltimore! Also, there’s just something extra special about sailing with all women. The boat chat can’t be beat!”

I sailed with Paula Grenier one year. She told me, “I was all-in for the Women’s Regatta from day one. As a cruiser, I was excited to sail in an all-women environment and to learn the intricacies of racing. It has resulted in many ‘firsts’ for me: In 2019, my ride, Diva II, placed first in the cruising class! I was tactician, backup helm, and rail meat... and had a blast! In 2022, I was skipper on Kaya and will never forget how our crew bonded and crossed the finish line, in notoriously light air. I learned so much!!”

Jennifer Ellefson said, “I raced on Happy Place in the 2022 HHSA Women’s Regatta immediately after my leg with Maiden. The regatta was the perfect venue to teach, learn, and enjoy the company of such skilled women. The enduring friendships are icing on the cake!”

I also sailed one year with Cindy Levy from In The Red who said, “It’s not about being without men; it’s about changing the boat dynamics. It’s women supporting women in a safe, constructive atmosphere in which we encourage women to bring a positive mindset to have a fun, calming, and empowering experience.”

In the same vein, Annie Coyne offered that she really enjoys the Women’s Regatta because, “It draws women from all over the Chesapeake Bay Area to come together to share our experiences, teach others, and learn from each new skills and tactics.”

Barbie Klik, owner and skipper of Etoile added, “It is a way to showcase that women are competitive and competent in their own right. Certainly on our mixed boat crew, everyone knows this is true, but as a sport, that fact needs to be amplified. Moreover, it is a way to uniquely demonstrate our sailing chops. Finally, all the skippers look at this as a way to create a space for up-and-comers who want a place to showcase or further develop their skills.”

Whether you are a racer, cruiser, or just a woman who loves the water, I hope you too will come this year on July 13 and find your confidence, lifetime new friend, best day ever, or one more marvelous day on the Bay! For more information go to hhsa.org (scroll to “women’s events at the bottom of the page), or email race coordinator, Jayne Durden, at womenunderway@hhsa.org

# Maryline O’Shea and her Chanceuse crew at the HHSA Women’s Regatta.

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CBYRA Is on the Move and Needs Your Help!

With somewhat of a tumultuous start to the year, the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association (CBYRA) is now reaching its stride and getting dialed in supporting you, the sailing community. So, what’s up with CBYRA? Well, what’s up is what’s down and CBYRA is doubling down on its main objectives of promoting and marketing the sport of sailing, providing educational opportunities, and providing grants for Chesapeake sailors and member clubs needing regatta support.

If you haven’t visited our CBYRA website lately, please take a look at cbyra. org and you’ll find big changes. We’ve revamped the website and reorganized the content to make it easier for you to find the information you need. All of the Sailing Division pages—Juniors, One Design, Cruising One Design, and Handicap— have been updated with a common look and feel.

We’ve also consolidated several support services items under the new Member Support section. The 2024 Green Book v1.0 is available for download, and we’ve brought back the Blue Book this year which lists all of the Bay-wide one-design events. You also may have noticed an uptick in the publishing of Race Flyers for CBYRA race events. These flyers help promote the events and get more boats on the line!

This year CBYRA has rolled out its consolidated High Point series scoring software which is intended to eliminate the end-of-year HP scoring chaos. The software provides the current state of the HP scoring based on up-to-date race results data. It was developed in partnership with NextSailor using feedback from the CBYRA membership.

Visit the CBYRA home page and click on “Current High Point Standings.” CBYRA is also improving on its outreach with the implementation of a CRM tool which will better serve the membership by tracking a multitude of member attributes.

CBYRA is stoked to report the following 2024 grants: Emory McAllister for OptiOrange/US National Team; Trevor Davis for Snipe Brazilian Championship; Ashley Love and Team Thayer Team CBYRA; Ware River for the WRYC Governors Cup One-Design Regatta; US Sailing Team Racing Championship; Adam Butz North American Optimist Championship; the Harbor 20 East West Challenge; and Brandt Adams North American Optimist Championship.

CBYRA needs help! If you have an interest in being part of the organization and helping to “make the sausage,” contact us at receptionist@cbyra.org We’re specifically looking for volunteers

and individuals who have an interest and skills in the following areas: IT support, communication and writing, bookkeeping/finance, grant writing, outreach, education and webinar management, and promotion and marketing.

We’d like to give a big shout-out and thank you to the two photographers that have provided CBYRA with such amazing images that are used throughout the CBYRA.org website. It really makes our website a place that truly celebrates sailing on the Chesapeake!

Photographs throughout our site are courtesy of Will Keyworth and Mark Hergan (some taken for SpinSheet). Their love of photography, coupled with a keen knowledge and eye for sailing is evident in the breadth of stunning photos captured each season. Find Will Keyworth’s galleries at keyworthphotography.com, Mark Hergan’s at deadrisemarinephoto. com, and the full SpinSheet gallery at spinsheet.com/photos.

And lastly, go to CBYRA News and select Subscribe if you’d like to be added to our email list. Here’s to a great 2024 Chesapeake Bay Sailing season!

~ Josh Colwell, CBYRA acting president and VP Race Management

# Photo by Ted Morgan

Racing Under the Moonlight

On June 8, Potapskut Sailing Association (PSA) will host another exciting and wonderful Moonlight Race, starting at Baltimore Light. The Moonlight Race originated in 2014 and replaced the PSA Overnight Race which was a yearly event for decades.

This regatta is open to all boats in the following classes: Handicap Division: CHESSS, CRCA, ORC, Multihull, and PHRF. Participants competing in a handicap class shall have a valid 2024 handicap certificate. Corinthian/Novice class for less experienced owners will receive Assigned Ratings.

Rendezvous at 3:45 p.m. Region 2 Chesapeake Bay Area Mark “T” Baltimore Light for mandatory check-in. The first signal will be at 4 p.m. Boat owners should register by 4 p.m. Wednesday June 5: nextsailor.com/regatta/681

The race will be approximately 14 miles long but has been as long as 23 nm, depending on wind strength and direction. The course will be posted on the committee boat before the race. The fixed-mark course is defined in the sailing instructions using marks listed in the GSI as Region 2, Chesapeake Bay Area Standard Racing Marks. ID those marks on your GPS or paper chart before coming out to the start.

The race committee aims to have racers finish by approximately midnight. Partici-

pants are invited to dock at the PSA clubhouse on Blackhole Creek following the race. A hearty breakfast and beverages will be waiting at the PSA clubhouse for all participants. Awards will be presented at the PSA Fall Party in November 2024. Invitations will be sent to all award winners.

Send questions to Tim Ford, PRO, timford@nbayracing.com or Bob Aaron, rear commodore, Mr75bobaa@gmail.com

# Moonlight Race photo by Tim Ford

Small Boat Scene Standing Tall

By Kim Couranz

Stand up straight! No slouching! Whoever thought that Aunt Ellen’s nagging could help your sailing?!?

As a sailing athlete who’s no longer, well, one of the young guns, of course I spend time working on strength, endurance, and flexibility. I’m also being careful to take care of my body and to focus on recovery, too. That’s how I found myself in a painful in a super good way deep-tissue massage session, where my therapist was working on some hamstring issues that have been plaguing my running. But as I lay facedown on the table, she noticed something else: She could tell from the way my upper spine settled at rest that I likely wasn’t focusing on my posture. (Happily, I am not suffering from “tech neck!”)

I walked out of that session not only with more effective and responsive hamstrings, but with a commitment to myself to be more cognizant of my posture. Because it’s been on my mind, I’ve noticed a bunch of ways that better posture can support better sailboat racing.

It Helps Your Sailing

You know how a few minutes before the start you’ll stand up to get a good view of the racecourse, helping you to decide which side of the course you’d like to play on the first beat? Key words there

are “stand up.” Getting taller gives you a better view and lets you see farther. If you want to have a more expansive view at that point, doesn’t it follow that you’d always like to have a bigger view? Being taller essentially expands the horizon of the area you can monitor for puffs, shifts, and more. This gives you additional information on which to base your decisions. And more information is a good thing!

It Helps Your Body

(which, in turn, helps your sailing)

The few extra inches that not slouching can give you really can make a difference. This is especially true if you are sailing a singlehanded or minimally handed boat, when you’re not able to designate a crew member to keep an eye out for puffs. The multitasking crew, or perhaps the skipper as the only sailor onboard, will pick up more wind info by being a little taller.

Extra height also helps you move the boat more effectively through the waves. If you’re hiking out and working the boat up and down by shifting your weight forward and aft, you’re essentially using your legs/butt area on the boat as a fulcrum and your upper body as the lever. And the longer your lever, the more effectively you can act on that fulcrum.

Downwind, if you’re driving, you are mostly sitting upright— but sometimes you do need to go shoulders out to apply a little torque. Of course, while reaching you’ll do that more often. Upwind, hiking with posture is definitely harder. Focus on building core strength (abs and back) to make that work better.

Your spine is intended to have a gentle “S” curve in it. This gives you both flexibility and support. These soft curves effectively distribute mechanical stress as you go about your daily business. But put yourself into unique positions, and your body will run into some challenges. Dinghy sailing is outstanding at doing this.

For example, hiking upwind, the tendency for the thoracic section of your spine (the middle-ish bit) is to bend the opposite way from how it was designed to function for upright walking folks. A day of that puts a lot of pressure on your spine and the muscles that support it, leading to stiffness and pain. And that can certainly inhibit both your ability to repeat those movements—and your motivation to do so—in multiple-day regattas.

Another thing that slouching and hunching your shoulders does is to limit the amount of space available for your lungs to expand into. Sitting down, try slouching and rolling your shoulders forward, and then take a deep breath. Not super deep, right? Now change your posture, rolling your shoulder blades back and reaching the top of your head toward the sky. Take that deep breath again—much bigger, yes? In an athletic sport like dinghy sailing, you need to be able to use your lungs at full capacity. Limiting their potential use limits your endurance, strength, and brain power.

I’m not willing to give away any of my potential! So, if you see me slacking off, please remind me: No slouching!

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.

# Getting taller by standing up on the deck helps Viper forward crews get a better view of where the puffs are. Photos by Will Keyworth

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

SAIL CLUB ANNAPOLIS 32’ Hunter

Vision Sloop, fully equipped. Annual dues $900 Daily rate $100/day. **ONE Membership Left - CALL NOW ** 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

DINGHIES

Avon Rover Inflatable R280 Dinghy 9’ No patches. Includes pump and oars. Riva, MD. $400 410.956.5824

SAIL

21’ Cape Cod Catboat 1975 Completely restored to new condition. FULL rebuild $30,000 - NEW: Yanmar diesel, tanks, electronics, decks, aluminum mast, wiring, interior upholstery, wheel steering, cradle. Sleeps 2, massive cockpit. Freshwater boat. $14,900 231.676.7132 or prussron@gmail.com

1975 CAL 27 Very nice boat; reasonable price. Owned 15 years. New jib and top-quality bottom paint. Located Parish Creek Landing, Shady Side, MD. $5,000 Call/text 202.386.1964.

Catalina 30 Mark II 1988

Well-equipped for Bay/Coastal Cruising. Wing keel, Universal M25, Extra sails w/ Gennaker, Solar panels 140W each, Refrigerator, stove, sink, HW heater, Bimini, Dodger, Davits, anchor windlass. Magothy River. $19,900 lehazel@aol.com

1985 Bavaria 960 One owner sloop - 31.5’ LOA. Good condition but needs TLC. Nearly new sails. Sold AS IS. $12,500 - Back Creek slip available. Contact: John Halstead, 410.336.3575 or jhalstead@mindspring.com

Custom 31’ 1981 Allmand Cutter 3’10” draft, 2009 Yanmar 3YM30, 2016 major refit, 2021 fuel tank. Fully loaded and ready to go! Annapolis area. $24,500 For more info/specs, please visit https://bit.ly/MiAlmaFlyer. For inquiries, please contact Info@MiAlma31.com

Brokerage & Classified

(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

Tartan 33 1980 Ready to cruise! Very good condition, all standing rigging new 2018, sails excellent, 2 spinnakers, Universal diesel, autopilot, excellent electronics, sleeps 7, shower, folding prop. $32,000 Call Tag 530.304.1229 www.tinyurl.com/tartan33-1980

(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

2003 Bavaria 36 Sailboat 29Hp Volvo Diesel engine in excellent condition. Inmast furling, furling jib is 4 y/o. New bottom paint, just cleaned and waxed. Located in Annapolis, MD. $59,900 For more info, please email richminner0921@gmail.com

36’ Gulfstar Sail 1983 Perfect family cruiser! Shoal Draft 4’10’’ keel. Westerbeke 27 Diesel w/ low hours. Refrigeration w/ beautiful teak/holly interior. New mainsail/genoa 2016. Raymarine Depth Speed Wind combo, Raymarine Autopilot. Fortress FX-16 w/ chain rope rode. Vessel has spent her entire life on Chesapeake. Only 2 owners - has been my “baby” for the 34 years. $32,500 Southern Maryland. Call Alan 703.405.0867

(Five O’clock) 1987 40’ O’Day Racer/Cruiser w/ reverse cycle heat & AC, windlass, electric freshwater head, refrigerator, stove. In sail away condition - take the family cruising this weekend! Asking $30,000 Call Mike @ 410.533.6096 or m_jool@yahoo.com

(Chardonnay) 42’ Beneteau First Cruiser/Racer ‘81 Frers design. Wellmaintained, 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. Price Reduced $74,900 Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or Dave@CrusaderYachts.com www.crusaderyachts.com/boats-forsale/1981-beneteau-first-42-annapolismaryland-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 $134,500 Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

1993 Tartan 3500 The immensely popular Tartan 3500, designed by Tim Jackett, is regarded by many as the 35-footer that has it all! 2 cabins, enclosed head, Beavertail keel, awl grip hull - RAMBLE ON stands out among 3500s on the brokerage market. Asking $88,000 Call Rod Rowan 703.813.0460 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2022 Excess 11 37’ Wonderfully equipped and maintained Excess 11SIA has been sailed exclusively on the Chesapeake for weekending and occasional overnights. Very Lightly Used! Genset, Air, Dinghy, Code Zero and More - READY TO CRUISE!!

Asking $560,000 Call Mike Titgemeyer 410.703.7986 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 $74,500 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. $74,900 Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

2017 Jeanneau 44 DS 44’ Extremely clean, well-maintained and equipped - step aboard and go! This won’t last long! $385,000 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

2010 Jeanneau 53 3-4 stateroom layout including Captain’s Quarters, AC, Genset, Code Zero, Bow Thruster and More! Asking $350,000 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 To

Brokerage & Classified

www.curtisstokes.net

(Confidante) 36’ Vancouver ‘82

$60,000 Jim Edwards 252.474.5000 jedwards @curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Belle) 37’ Dickerson ‘86 $25,000 Lars Bergstrom 910.899.7941 lars@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Felix) 37’ Custom Catboat ‘14 $125,000 Lars Bergstrom 910.899.7941 lars@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Le Creole) 37’ Hunter ‘82 $22,000 Dennis Mancinelli 404.395.6688 dennism@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Native) 38’ Herreshoff ‘70 $29,900 Lin Earley 757.672.2778 lin@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Natamus) 40’ Hunter ‘94 $69,900 Chris Rodriguez 786.897.4415 chrisrod@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Pride) 40’ Tartan ‘85 $75,000 Lars Bergstrom 910.899.7941 lars@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

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

(Messmee) 42’ Beneteau Oceanis 423 ‘04 $125,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

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

48’ Beneteau Oceanis ‘14

Island Packet Yachts 27’-52’ List your Island Packet w/ the Experts!

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

(Siddhartha) 41’ Hunter H41 Deck Salon ‘08 $142,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net Find all the latest listings online at spinsheet.com

(Resilience)

Brokerage & Classified

Catalina 355 ‘11 Nicely equipped, lightly used - below 900 engine hours. Shallow draft (4’ 9”), aluminum arch, in-mast furling, electric anchor windlass, 1500-watt inverter, heat/air conditioning and more! $165,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

2019 Blue Jacket 40 Lightly used, nearly 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

Sabre 402 2001 Good looks, wonderful sailing 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

Shannon 43 1988 Available now, this classic, beautifully built blue water passage maker has had many important upgrades over the last few years.

$165,000 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, lithium batteries, an arch/ davits, dinghy/outboard, custom hardtop bimini w/ lights, enclosure panels, speakers, and screens. $499,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

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. $420,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

boat?

2010 Southerly 57RS Price Reduced! 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

Anne & Jon Hutchings

17218 General Puller Hwy, Deltaville, VA Anne: 804-567-0092 | Jon: 804-567-0093 www.yazuyachting.com

40’ J Boats J/40 1988 Rare “dinette” cabin layout. Well-maintained 2-cabin, 2-head racer/cruiser. Extensive sail inventory. Refrig. $79,900 Yorktown, VA. Contact Matt Lambert 804.432.9037 or matt @yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

46’ Fountaine Pajot Bahia 46 2005 Yanmar engines 2021/2, Standing Rigging 2020, Solar, Watermaker 2021, Diesel heater, B&G Electronics 2020, AIS & more. Mathews, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 or jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

john@yachtview.com yachtview.com

2016/2024 61’ Pacific Seacraft ketch Don’t be confused by the original year of construction on this beautiful, headturning, NEW yacht! She is long and lean, safe underway, designed for a quality-minded, adventurous cruising couple w/ occasional guests or crew. Her sleek, narrow frame will allow her to sail in light air, and then spring to her feet in moderate to heavy winds. Price reduced to $1,990,000 Washington, NC. Call/text John Kaiser 443.223.7864 or john@yachtview.com. For more information/specs, visit: www.yachtworld.com/yacht/2024pacific-seacraft-61-ketch-9213812

36’ Canadian Sailcraft CS36 Merlin 1989 Well-equipped and accomplished blue water racer/cruiser. Repowered in 2022 - only 277 hours. Meticulously maintained. Extensive sail inventory. $59,900 Deltaville, VA. Contact Matt Lambert 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

37’ Tayana 37 1985 One owner boat. 1720 Hours. 1 Cabin/1 Head w/ excellent storage. Aircon, refrigeration. Marble countertops. $42,900 Deltaville, VA. Contact Matt Lambert 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

42’ Catalina 42 Mk II 2006 2 Cabin w/ Centerline forward berth; Solar, Watermaker, Raymarine instruments 2021, Raymarine AP 2023 & Radar 2024, AIS, 2000W inverter, ROCNA, Sails 2018. $169,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

55’ Tayana 55 1991 Superb cruising boat, constant upgrades; 3 double cabins. Atlantic Towers Arch, Solar, 220V/110V circuits, Standing Rigging 2018, Perkins 135Hp, Watermaker, Honda 2000 & 2200 Generators, 100lb Brittany anchor. $239,900 Deltaville, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 or jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

MAR k ETPLACE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS

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

CAP TAINS

Seeking Boat Captain to Teach Me About My Mainship 39 Would need 2/3 days a week for 2/3 months. Would like to hire a captain to help me learn, maintain, and make her seaworthy. Located at Liberty Landing Marina, Jersey City, NJ. Please contact me and see if we can work out the details - Raj Pawar 570.578.3161

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

EQUIPMENT

H ELP WANTED

Assistant Coach, Offshore Sailing - USNA/ NAAA The Naval Academy Athletic Association (NAAA) is currently hiring a full-time offshore assistant sailing coach. For a detailed description, requirements/qualifications/certifications, and application process, please visit the official NAAA career website: https://workforcenow.adp.com/ mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment. html?cid=cee1bcaa-6e23-4122-9bb4-1394dace37ae &ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US

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

H ELP WANTED

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

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

M ARINE S ERVICES

SCHOOLS

SLIPS & STORAGE

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

New Collection

Rooster has announced its latest wetsuit range, setting new benchmarks in comfort, performance, and durability for watersport enthusiasts. While dinghy sailing stands as the core focus of this range, the design team at Rooster has also taken into account other sports such as standup paddleboarding, wingfoiling, and kayaking, ensuring versatility across various disciplines. With over 22 years of expertise in supplying premium sailing and watersports gear, Rooster continues to innovate and redefine industry standards. The latest wetsuit range represents the culmination of extensive research, customer feedback, and over two years of rigorous testing by Rooster athletes and riders, aimed at delivering unparalleled comfort and performance on the water. In alignment with the customary format recognized by Rooster customers, the Thermaflex 1.5mm and Supertherm 4mm ranges have been maintained. However, these ranges have undergone enhancements in design, featuring upgraded features, materials, and improvements in performance and durability. “Our latest wetsuit range is not just a product; it’s a testament to our commitment and passion for watersports,” said Kate Morrison, head of product development and marketing. “Every piece in this range has been thoughtfully redesigned and redeveloped to meet the evolving needs of our customers, while staying true to our core values of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.” The new range is now available for purchase at roosterkit.com

New Locations

Annapolis Electric Boat Rentals has recently joined the SeaDC group of companies. This adds two new locations in Baltimore and Washington, DC, but rest assured, there will be the same great experience you’ve come to expect at each location. Annapolis Electric Boat Rentals, LLC offers a unique and exciting way to tour the water. These eco-friendly vessels are battery operated and offer the ability to experience a day on the water in a silent luxurious boat that you drive yourself. Boats comfortably seat 10 adults and are safe for all ages. Rent from one to three hours and bring your own food and beverages (including alcohol); great for special events. These boats feature a fully enclosable window system, life vests, and all Coast Guard approved safety gear. Guests must be 21 with a valid driver’s license and credit card to rent. aebrentals.com

Charters

While you’ve likely seen this “darling” classic powerboat on the water in Annapolis, did you know that it is available for charters? Darling Charters Annapolis was established in the fall of 2022 by Bill and Alexandra Clary, two lifelong sailors, and is conveniently based at the foot of Fourth St. in Eastport near many favorite restaurants and bars. The concept for Darling Charters came from the couple’s desire to share their passion for boating and Annapolis’s unique waterfront, and to deliver it in a classic motorboat with first class touches (think cashmere blankets and elegant charcuterie boards). Darling, a Wasque 32 built on Martha’s Vineyard in 1973, turns heads wherever she goes. Bill hails from a boat building background and takes on the role of Darling’s “technical tinkerer.” He was responsible for the major hull and deck restoration last year and uses his skills to keep her in top shape. Alexandra is Darling’s captain and loves sharing her passion for the water and classic boats. Together they make a perfect team both on and off the water.

Married at the Eastport Yacht Club in the fall of 2020, Bill and Alexandra still consider themselves newlyweds and love having Darling be a part of weddings. She’s a lovely choice for a proposal spot, and there’s also been many “I do’s” aboard! Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, corporate event, or simply seeking a serene escape on the water, Bill and Alexandra are dedicated to crafting an unforgettable cruise tailored for you. They would love to speak with you about creating your own custom experience. Check out their website for some curated cruises: darlingcharters.com or (667) 225-7184.

Mid-Atlantic Dealer

Legasea Marine in Yorktown, VA, has been appointed as a Mid-Atlantic dealer for Axopar Boats. Axopar’s award-winning boats are renowned worldwide for their modern styling, exhilaration to drive, fuel efficiency, and undeniable value. With this agreement, Legasea Marine expands its new boat brand offerings to include Axopar’s complete lineup in five size ranges: 22, 25, 29, 37, and 45. “We are thrilled to offer our customers Axopar’s exceptional lineup of highly functional vessels that represent the epitome of Scandinavian design and engineering excellence,” commented Chris Hall, president and co-owner of Legasea Marine. “Axopar’s commitment to quality and adventure aligns perfectly with our values, and we look forward to providing boaters with unrivaled on-water experiences.” Johan Holm, head of sales for Axopar Boats, says, “Welcoming Legasea Marine as our newest dealer in the U.S. is very exciting for us! We look forward to seeing a lot of new Axoparians on the waters with the help of their experienced sales team.” Legasea Marine has committed to a full floorplan of Axopar models and the first new boats should begin arriving on-site later this summer. legaseamarine.com/axopar-boats

Send your c hesapeake Bay business news and high-resolution photos to kaylie@spinsheet.com

Summer Cover Contest

Have you ever dreamed of having one of your photographs on the cover of SpinSheet? Now is your chance! Every year we host a Summer Cover Contest, and this year the winning image will be on the cover of the September issue. The winning photographer also receives a SpinSheet hat and bragging rights!

We prefer images of people on sailboats having summer fun on the Chesapeake Bay. The best images will be one to 10 megabytes in size. We choose clear images over blurry ones and photos with level horizons over crooked ones. Vertical shots work best, so tilt your camera and snap away.

You must upload your photos online at spinsheet.com/cover-contest by August 1. SpinSheet’s graphic designers will narrow the field by deleting blurry photos, those that cannot be sized for the cover, and ones depicting children on boats without lifejackets or other unsafe practices. Then, we will open the contest to reader voting. Send questions to molly@spinsheet.com. We look forward to seeing the Chesapeake Bay sailing through your eyes. Remember: sailboat + Chesapeake Bay + smiling sailors + vertical shot = potential SpinSheet cover.

Vertical photos make the best covers. horizontal photos may work if there is enough image to be cropped vertically.

image should have enough space for our logo/header

image should have enough space for date/footer

You must upload your photos online at spinsheet.com/cover-contest by August 1.

2023 Summer Cover Contest Winner. Photo by kristen Cooper

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.

ANNAPOLIS | HERRINGTON HARBOUR | MAINE | NEWPORT | NORFOLK | ORIENTAL | SOLOMONS ISLAND