SpinSheet Magazine March 2024

2011 49’ Hanse

1994 40’ J Boats

1980 37’ Tartan

1988 34’ Tartan

1981 47’ Vagabond

2003 39’ Beneteau

1979 37’ Tartan 1988 34’

Whatever type of traveler you are, we invite you to embark on a private expedition through paradise that’s anything you want it to be. Whether you choose to fill your days with activities or go where the wind takes you – set sail and discover why there’s nothing like island-hopping aboard your own private yacht. It’s your vacation, make the most of it with The Moorings.

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59

37

See the Bay: Chestertown and the Chester River

Local tips on Chester River anchorages and what to do if you wind your way all the way up to Chestertown.

By Molly Winans

presented by Argo

44

Spring Commissioning Checklist

A helpful checklist to help guide your precommissioning ritual in order to best prepare your boat to take on anything the Bay brings her way.

By Captain Steven Toole

46

Marina Section: Finding a Home for Your Boat

Selecting a marina is a highly personal choice, especially when your priorities constantly shift.

Find this story followed by news from regional marinas and a Chesapeake marina directory.

By Captain Cheryl Duvall

59

Bluewater Dreaming: Pets Onboard

Cruising the Caribbean with two dogs: the requirements, challenges, necessities, and joys of it.

By Cindy Wallach

presented by M yAcht services

on the cover

72

CBYRA High Point Standings and More Racing

High Point Standing for PHRF divisions, special awards, and more news for Chesapeake sailors. presented by Mount gAy ruM

85

Racer’s Edge: Deciphering the Lingo of Sailboat Racing

Technical terms and slang can create barriers to those trying to get into sailboat racing, so here’s a glossary to get you started.

By David Flynn of Quantum Sails

Longtime SpinSheet contributor Cindy Wallach took this month’s cover shot of one of her two beloved boat dogs, Choo Choo, on the Chesapeake.

# Photo by Will Keyworth

Departments

12 Editor’s Note

14 Letter From the Publisher

16 Dock Talk

24 Chesapeake Calendar presented by the boAtyArd bAr & grill

26 Chesapeake Tide Tables presented by bAy shore MArine

28 Start Sailing Now: Start Sailing This Spring!

30

By Beth Crabtree

Where We Sail: Jeepers Creepers: The Mighty Sound of a Tiny Frog

By Pamela Tenner Kellett presented by herrington hArbour

32 Inspired by the Chesapeake Meet Collin Cessna, Artist and Musician, Interview by Gwen Mayes

34 Congratulations SpinSheet Century Club and Racing Team!

presented by bAcon sAils And MArine supplies

39 The Fastest Female Rowing Pair Breaks the World Record Across the Atlantic

41 Safety Series Part 3: Safety at Sea Seminars presented by switlik

57 DIY: Installing a Clean-Out Port in Your Diesel Fuel Tank By John Herlig presented by hArken

87 Brokerage Section: Used Boats for Sale

94 Marketplace

97 SpinSheet Monthly Subscription Form

97 Index of Advertisers

98 Biz Buzz

99 Bay People: Meet Emily Decker of MTAM

62 Charter Notes: Crossing an Ocean on Charter By Zuzana Prochazka

64 Cruising Club Notes presented by yAZu yActhing

Cruising Scene Racing Beat

72 Racing News presented by Mount gAy ruM

83 Small Boat Scene: Let’s Get This Race Rolling By Kim Couranz

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

PUBLISHER

Mary Iliff Ewenson, mary@spinsheet.com

A SSoCIATE PUBLISHER

Chris Charbonneau, chris@spinsheet.com

EDIToR

Molly Winans, molly@spinsheet.com

SENIoR EDIToRS

Beth Crabtree, beth@spinsheet.com

Kaylie Jasinski, kaylie@spinsheet.com

CoPY EDIToR

Lucy Iliff, lucy@spinsheet.com

FoUNDING EDIToR

Dave Gendell

ADVERTISING SALES

Eric Richardson, eric@spinsheet.com

Katie Lange, katie@spinsheet.com

CUSToMER SERVICE MANAGER

Brooke King, brooke@spinsheet.com

DISTRIBUTIoN / BRokERAGE / CLASSIFIEDS MANAGER

Beatrice M. Roderick , beatrice@spinsheet.com

ART DIRECToR / PRoDUCTIoN MANAGER

Zach Ditmars, zach@spinsheet.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER / PRoDUCTIoN ASSISTANT

Royal Snyder, royal@spinsheet.com

CoNTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

CoNTRIBUTING PHoToGRAPHERS

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

DISTRIBUTIoN

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

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

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

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

Member

The Things That Take You Back

By Molly Winans

Whenever I see duct tape holding together a sailor’s dinghy boot, foul weather jacket pocket, or some other piece of essential sailing gear, it always makes me smile. Back in the 1980s at YMCA Camp Eberhart in Michigan, where I fell in love with sailing, no one wore high-end sailing gear, shorts with padding in the rear, SPF shirts, or deck shoes, or really any shoes. Duct tape was reserved for boat or flip-flop repairs.

We sailed donated boats: several 16-foot sloops, a couple of C-Scows, Sunfish, Optis, and (my favorite) an E-Scow. I capsized one of those waterlogged 16-footers one time, and it sank. I remember sneaking out in the night with a bunch of other counselors for a midnight sail and skinny dipping and giggling in the cold lake.

Man, we loved those boats. It didn’t matter that they were patched up, held together with duct tape and random parts from various well-used boats. They’d all been donated by sailors with a fondness for that camp on Corey Lake. There was always some guy hiding out in the boathouse, listening to a mix tape on a boom box, sneaking smokes, working on those boats, and keeping them limping along. I can still smell that place, hear a summer storm pounding on the tin roof.

When I moved to Annapolis, everything seemed so shiny and new. It still does. Although I love to climb aboard new sailboat models at boat shows and to sail on boats with cool new electronics, I feel more at home on old boats, however jury-rigged or taped together.

As we enter into spring, it’s a good time to take stock of the condition of your equipment on deck (see our spring commissioning reminders on page 44) and in your gear kit. Figure out what work you can do yourself (see page 57 and our how-to page on spinsheet.com). Make an appointment to have the more complicated stuff done by professionals. For anything that’s not pressing, there’s always duct tape.

# Jonathan Nepini’s bow fix.

# A well-worn Nathan of Dorchester hat.

# Quick fix on a log canoe sprit. Photo by James Ronayne

Letter from the Publisher

How Lucky Are WeTo Have SpinSheet ?

Three weeks ago, I asked Molly to save a page in the March issue for a “Letter from the Publisher.” As the saying goes, “it seemed like a good idea at the time.” Now, here I am at deadline trying to capture in words that feeling that drove me to make the request. There’s a reason I’m the publisher and not an editor. I’m not a writer. I love sailing, sailboats, and being part of the sailing community. I love working with our advertisers on marketing ideas and working with the amazing team that puts together SpinSheet, PropTalk, FishTalk, and PortBook. I know what I want to say, but I’m struggling to get started. I just keep writing, “How did I get so lucky?”

“How did you get so lucky?” I can hear my husband, Geoff, ask me facetiously with a twinkle in his eye as I scowled at him over wet hockey equipment he’d left in a heap, or dirty dishes in the sink, or pink laundry that resulted from a red shirt being thrown in with the whites, or some other “egregious error.” Inevitably, we’d end up laughing, and all would be forgiven—he for the error, and I for my overreaction. Because, you see, we were so lucky.

And, I am so lucky to be part of team SpinSheet. When my friend Dave Gendell and I started SpinSheet, we were determined to make a magazine that Chesapeake sailors would love. From issue number one, we knew we’d succeeded. The community welcomed us with cheers—in some cases literally when we dropped off the first bundles of magazines and placed them in show goers’ hands at our first Annapolis Sailboat Show booth. The Chesapeake needed its

own sailing magazine. We delivered it. Our advertisers supported us from the start, some of them prepaying for ads before even the first issue was printed. They, too, needed a magazine dedicated to the customers who support them.

SpinSheet arrived on the scene about the same time the internet did, and we launched spinsheet.com the same year we launched our print publication. Along came social media, and we joined

going and took care of me. The harder things got, the harder the team worked. They are still working hard to bring the Chesapeake sailing community their own magazine, and the only way we can do that is with the support of our advertisers.

Those advertisers have a choice. They can invest their advertising dollars in SpinSheet, the Chesapeake’s only sailing magazine, which is produced by local sailors you know and love, or they can spend their marketing dollars on likes, clicks, and influencers who don’t even know where the Chesapeake Bay is.

in. We started SpinSheet Crew Parties, the SpinSheet Century Club, and the SpinSheet Racing Team. We welcomed newcomers to sailing with Start Sailing Now.

When Covid hit, we jumped on live streaming happy hours to keep in touch with all the sailors stuck at home. In the fall of 2020, when my husband, Geoff, died, our team kept the company

So, when you are looking for a marina, a service provider, a sailmaker, or a yacht broker, please support one that advertises in SpinSheet and thank them for advertising in SpinSheet. There are many sailing areas in the world that have no local sailing coverage. We’re lucky to have the advertising support to make SpinSheet a reality. Our advertisers are lucky to have the pages and pixels of SpinSheet to reach you, their valued customers.

Thank you for reading SpinSheet and supporting the advertisers that support the Chesapeake sailing community. Thanks to Lucy, Molly, Zach, Brooke, Chris, Kaylie, Beth, Lenny, Eric, Royal, Beatrice, and Katie. Thanks to our writers, photographers, distribution drivers, advertisers, and readers. We have the best sailing magazine in the world, and I get to be a part of it.

How did I get so lucky?!

Mary Ewenson

# SpinSheet publisher Mary Ewenson and her late husband Geoff at the SpinSheet Century Club party at SSA in 2015.

T h e H a n s e 4 1 0 p r o v i d e s

a g e n e r o u s l y e q u i p p e d

o w n e r ’ s c a b i n w i t h a l l t h e r e f i n e m e n t s , I n c l u d i n g a n I s l a n d

d o u b l e b e r t h a n d m u c h s t o r a g e s p a c e .

N o t h i n g b e a t s n a t u r a l

v e n t i l a t i o n a n d l i g h t o n

b o a r d . T h e H a n s e 4 1 0

s e t s n e w s t a n d a r d s b y

o f f e r i n g t h e m o s t d e c k h a t c h e s I n I t s c l a s s .

T h e L - s h a p e d g a l l e r y

o f f e r s s t o r a g e s p a c e o n

p o r t s i d e . D e c i d e f o r a n

o p t i o n a l p a n t r y e x t e n s i o n t h a t a l l o w s

s e v e r a l r e f r i g e r a t o r o p t i o n s .

ty a l ER t! ⛵ Pa R ty a l ER t!

all Sailors Welcome to SpinSheet Crew Parties

The first rule of SpinSheet Crew Parties is don’t talk about SpinSheet Crew Parties… but do show up!

Since 1996 the goal of SpinSheet’s signature spring events has been to connect sailors. No matter your sailing skill level, it’s a great place to find a boat to sail on or crew for your own boat. All three of our parties are free and open to the public. Here’s how they work:

Don’t be late SpinSheet Crew Parties last for two hours (dates and times below). Those who arrive late may miss out on making great connections. If you’re shy about coming alone, bring a friend or two. Beginners are welcome. Entry is free. Just wear it. We offer nametags at the door. When everyone has a nametag on, it’s easier to introduce yourselves and remember sailing acquaintances’ names. Assess your goals. Are you a boat owner looking for crew? Are you looking for a sailboat to take day sails on? Are you hoping to get into racing yet have little experience? Are you still unsure what kind

of sailing will suit you? You will meet party goers in all of these categories. Our advice is come to the party! There will be a lot of sailors there with different interests who can lead you in the right direction, as well as exhibitors from regional sailing organizations who want to meet you. Bring cash. Although party entry is free, at all three of our parties you will find a cash bar for adult beverages and soft drinks.

Smart phones are smart. At our big Annapolis party there will be a Boat Board showing boat photos and contact information for boat owners seeking crew. You may snap photos of prospective boats and their corresponding skipper information. You may also want your phone to gather numbers or information. Some sailors use business or boat cards and/or pads of paper—whatever works! Be yourself. These are casual flip-flops or sailing shoes, jeans or shorts, baseball cap types of events. Super casual. Come as yourself.

Crew Party Dates

Solomons, MD—Sunday, March 10 from 4-6 p.m. at the Southern Maryland Sailing Association. (This year’s party is a few weeks earlier than usual.)

Hampton, VA—Saturday, April 6 from 6-8 p.m. at Marker 20.

Annapolis, MD—Sunday, April 28 from 4-6 p.m. at Eastport Yacht Club (EYC). Includes live steel drum music by the Geckos. Held outdoors rain or shine. (Do not park in the EYC lot. Park on the street.)

Free Online Crew Finder

Be sure to sign up for or update your information in our free Crew Finder database at spinsheet.com/crewfinder. Prospective boat owners and/ or crew members will find you there. Share this link with friends: spinsheet.com/crew-parties.

News From Brendan Sailing

Brendan Sailing, a nonprofit organization that helps youth with learning differences build confidence, self-esteem, and skills while learning to sail, recently shared two exciting updates: the appointment of a new executive director and the presentation of its annual recognition awards.

New executive director Jane Millman brings to Brendan more than 15 years of leadership experience and has been previously recognized for building a strong culture of high performing programs for the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis Yacht Club, Beverly Yacht Club, and Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation.

“Jane’s extensive sailing education background, solid experience in the nonprofit space, and leadership skills make her the ideal candidate to lead Brendan Sailing into its next chapter. We are thrilled to have her onboard and confident in her ability to drive the organization forward,” stated

Joanne Dorval, president of Brendan Sailing’s board of directors.

Jane, who is a certified US Sailing level instructor trainer, a USCG 50-ton captain, and a US Sailing basic keelboat and powerboat instructor, says, “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to lead this organization and contribute to making a lasting impact on the lives of youth with learning differences. I am committed to building upon the existing foundation and using my skills to navigate challenges and create positive changes for the youth we serve.”

In other Brendan news, on January 28, the organization held its annual awards event to recognize its outstanding sailors and volunteers from 2023. More than 100 campers, families, volunteers, and supporters enjoyed a wonderful evening. James P. Muldoon, chairman of the board, opened the evening. Joanne Dorval and Charlie Arms, outgoing executive director, MCed the event. Joanne introduced Jane Millman to the audience. The evening ended with a re-

sounding “thank you” to Charlie, whose thoughtful hand on the helm of Brendan Sailing navigated it to the starting line of the next level of professionalism.

Adult supporters who received awards are Susan O’Brien, Gary Hague, Beth Berry, and Derrick Cogburn. Youth sailors who were recognized with awards are Owen Castro, Gabi England, Max Heil, and Daniel Irwin. To learn more about Brendan’s programs and how you can get involved, visit brendansailing.org.

# New executive director, Jane Millman.

Burn your Socks at the Equinox

If you can hear the whirring of a sander in the boat yard and the cry of an osprey in the creek, it might be time to stoke up a small fire and burn your socks! The tradition of sailors burning their socks at the spring equinox in Chesapeake country began in an Annapolis boatyard, some say in the deep freeze of 1977; others say in the early 1980s. Since the first boat service guy torched his stinky socks at the end of a workday and toasted their demise with a tall Bud in hand, the tradition has spread like… well, you know.

This year’s equinox, March 19, will fall on a Tuesday, so expect yacht clubs and marinas to celebrate the weekend before or after that day, if not on the exact day. The Annapolis Maritime Museum hosts its big fundraiser, the Oyster Roast and Sock Burning, on Saturday, March 23.

A few suggestions for your sock burning: The tradition started as a spontaneous decision to burn nasty socks at the end of a workday in a busy season, so it’s not meant to be a raucous party or raging bonfire. A small fire in a contained fire pit or even a bucket would work. Gather your sailing friends with a beer (or your beverage of choice) in hand, burn your socks, propose a toast to spring, and go home for dinner.

Make sure your socks are made of natural materials, such as cotton or wool. When burnt, high tech socks may turn into foul-smelling balls of plastic, messing up your party vibe and possibly your nice chiminea.

Take a few pictures and send them to editor@spinsheet.com! Happy spring, sailors, and safe burning!

a nnapolis J/105 Sailor l aunches “Sailfaster” Podcast

“I’m obsessive about learning,” says Annapolis sailor Pete Boland who recently launched the “Sailfaster” podcast. Admittedly not an expert sailor or podcaster, Boland is learning to interview and edit as he goes, while increasing his knowledge about a sport he loves.

Although he’d been a windsurfer in his youth in England, Boland is relatively new to sailboat racing. He owned a J/80 while living in San Francisco, CA, where “we had no idea what we were doing,” he says. He bought his J/105 London Calling while living in Florida and started racing locally seriously last summer.

“We did okay last year,” he says. “We didn’t come in last. We finished in the last third. For me it was so instructive to see the top of the fleet sail away. I found that after the race sailors were really willing to share what they knew.”

Boland, a retired chief marketing officer who lives in DC and sails out of Back Creek in Annapolis, thought he’d try a podcast for the local J/105 fleet, and after a few episodes decided to reach out more

broadly to other racing classes.

“I have learned so much about other sailors… I want to keep it in the lane for people who want to sail faster. I hope to generate a couple of ‘aha’ moments in each episode.”

Boland hopes to strike a balance between getting too technical (“if you get too technical you lose your audience”) or too beginner. “I’m trying to pitch the discussion at the right level so that club racers get something out of it.”

At print time, Boland had generated eight episodes with interviews of excellent Chesapeake sailors, including Doug Stryker, Ray Wulff, Jen Sturmer, Lorie Stout, Jason Currie of Quantum Sails and Mike Beasley of Beasley Marine, Scott Steele, Carol Cronin, and the Charleston Pirate Princess Racing Team.

“For me (sailboat racing) is such a complex, multifaceted, and intriguing sport. There’s no magic

bullet. I’ve learned that it’s meticulous application of the fundamentals, obsessive preparation, and brilliant analysis of what’s happening on the water.”

If you’re obsessed with sailing faster, download the “Sailfaster” podcast and learn more at sailfaster.net

Introducing The All-New NavNet TZtouchXL Series Transform Your Helm Into A Multi Function Masterpiece

# Pete Boland on his J/105 London Calling.

Discover the Magic of Witchcraft

Imagine sailing aboard a beautiful, classic, gaff yawl that is more than 100 years old. The opportunity is yours, right here on the Bay at the Calvert Marine Museum (CMM). You may see the vessel this Father’s Day weekend when CMM plans to display its historic yacht during the Antique & Classic Boat Festival at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels. Taking Witchcraft to the Eastern Shore is part of CMM’s outreach program to raise awareness that she is available for partial day charters from Solomons Island.

Built in 1903 for Willia B. Rogers, a member of the Kellogg family who sailed and raced her on Lake Champlain until 1920, Witchcraft is 66 feet in overall length with a beam of 13 feet. After a series of private owners, the vessel was donated to CMM in October 2022 by David Butler, Jr., whose father had owned the boat in the 1950s.

Charter guests can experience tranquil relaxation and the thrill of sailing aboard a momentous racing yacht. Witchcraft accommodates up to six passengers. A licensed USCG captain, mate, and one crew will be aboard each charter to ensure safety and make sure that your time on the water is enjoyable. Witchcraft is equipped with a comfortable cabin. Guests may bring their favorite foods and beverages. Bathroom facilities are also onboard. All passengers must be 18 years of age or older. For information on charters, contact Melissa McCormick at (410) 326-2042 ext. 8083 or melissa.mccormick@calvertcountymd.gov

To learn more about this iconic boat, visit spinsheet. com and search ‘Witchcraft’ to find an excellent 2023 article by Capt. Rick Franke about the history and enduring magic of this beautiful vessel. Learn more about CMM at calvertmarinemuseum.com

# Photo courtesy of Capt. James Black

Through His Lens

John Rock of Tidewater Images shares his journey as a Chesapeake Bay photographer:

Ihave had a camera in my right hand since high school days. I typically carry one wherever I go. I first started photographing J/24 races back in the 90s and loved it. I had to take a break and get a real job and did so until last year, when the joys of retirement allowed me to spend a lot more time on my hobbies.

At a party in September 2023 with a group of log canoe sailors I met a sailor who had viewed my photos throughout the 2023 season, but we had never met in person. He said he always looked for my pics at the end of the weekend and enjoyed seeing them. He asked me, “Who are you and where did you come from? You

just showed up this year and took over the Log Canoe Facebook site with terrific photos of all of us.”

I replied that two things had happened recently: 1) I semi-retired from my full-time company that I own; and 2) my wife passed away in 2022. In different ways, both of these life changes have allowed me to refocus on what I love: being on the water and taking pictures. Photography was a way to find myself after the loss of my spouse and redefine who I was. I created a new company, Tidewater Images, and a website to share my photos at tidewaterimages.com

In the fall of 2022, my friend and neighbor got me a ride on a log canoe chase boat (belonging to the Norths, a well-known canoe family), and I was able to get some great photos. To keep getting better, I needed to address my lack of boat and camera equipment. After a search and purchase of a small trailerable boat to launch easily at ramps in Talbot County and several trips to the Nikon store, I was able to get close on the water to the action and had the gear to get some terrific photos.

The North clan brought me into their sailing world in 2023 where I was running their chase boat for the log canoes JayDee and Island Bird. They became my new family. I will always be grateful for that. And it also offered me a closeup view and accelerated education of how log canoe racing works. When not on Cosmopolitan being a chase boat driver, I was on my 186 Key West center console shooting pics of the Tred Avon Yacht Club Friday night races or the Miles River Yacht Club Wednesday night races.

Facebook is a great medium for sharing photos of sailing racing events as well as local events on the Eastern Shore areas of Tilghman Island, St. Michaels, and Easton. I get great pleasure out of posting photos, providing a close-up view, and getting compliments from folks that would otherwise never get a chance to be out on the water at a sailing event. I am looking forward to continuing to photograph and share my work throughout the winter and next log canoe racing season!

# Photo by John Rock/ Tidewater Images

Chesapeake Calendar presented by

March

2 capt. henry marx memorial US Sailing international Safety at Sea course

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News, VA. This hands-on training course is to prepare you for survival offshore in demanding situations and emergencies.

2 Yorktown Winter market Days

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown, VA.

6-20 marine Weather 101 Webinar for all Boaters

Learning a few basic weather forecasting skills will improve the safety and comfort of your boating outings. Learn how to interpret weather maps, prepare a wind and wave forecast, recognize thunderstorm potential, and more. Wednesdays, March 6, 13, and 20 from 7-8:30 p.m. Sessions recorded. $80 for all. Sponsored by SpinSheet, PropTalk, and FishTalk. Register: bit.ly/486at3y

7 amm Winter Lecture Series

7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. $10 per person, free admission for First Mate and above (pre-registration is strongly suggested at amaritime.org as space is limited). In-person and virtual available. Topic: Following Seas - Sea Level Rise Observations, Resilience, and Research at the U.S. Naval Academy.

8 SpinSheet happy hour: Bluewater passagemaking with 59 north Grab a Mount Gay Rum drink or a mocktail and join SpinSheet at 5 p.m. on Facebook Live or YouTube as we welcome Andy Schell and Mia Karlsson from 59 North along with Jennifer Kaye of the Woodwind to talk about their recent trans-Atlantic and other bluewater tales.

8-9

mid-atlantic Jr. regional roundtables for competitive and recreational Sailing Competitive Sailing Roundtable (Friday) followed by the Recreational/Learn to Sail Roundtable (Saturday) Zim Sailing and the Junior Sailing Association of Long Island Sound. Event free of charge and includes light breakfast and lunch. Contact:  Josh@StartingLineSailing.com

9 capca marine radio operator permit

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Selby Bay Yacht Club in Edgewater, MD. This class is designed to learn VHF and HF radio operations and regulations for the Small Passenger Vessel (SPV) industry. This class will also prepare you to take and pass the FCC Element 1 exam, which will be given at the end of the course. Cost: $205, CAPCA Members: $190. Register: capca.net

Do you have an upcoming event? Send the details to:

10 capca captain’s License renewal

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Selby Bay Yacht Club in Edgewater, MD. Cost: $240, CAPCA Members: $200. Register: capca.net

10 SpinSheet Solomons crew party

4 to 6 p.m. at Southern Maryland Sailing Association (14490 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688). SpinSheet’s Crew Parties are for anyone who’d like to connect with other Chesapeake Bay sailors and sail more often. Free and open to all experience levels. Register today by signing up for the SpinSheet Crew Finder or by updating your existing profile.

16 a2B offshore racing tactics Seminar

Mustang Survival Annapolis Bermuda Ocean Race organizers offer a free Offshore Racing Tactics seminar presented by Jonathan Bartlett and Austin Powers. 9 a.m. to noon. Register: bermudaoceanrace.com

16 capca cpr, aeD, and First aid for Boaters

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Selby Bay Yacht Club in Edgewater, MD. Designed especially for boaters, the program is taught by American Heart Association Certified Instructor. Cost: $115, CAPCA/SBYC: $100. Register: capca.net

16 Yorktown Winter market Days

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown, VA.

22-24 Special topics: marine Welding processes

Friday, March 22 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. No prior welding experience necessary. All tools and materials are included with the cost of registration. Cost: $795. Register: cbmm.org

25 capca monthly meeting

6:45 to 8:30 p.m. Speaker: J. Seamus Duffy, Annapolis Compass. Topic: Take the Voodoo Out of Compass Headings. Free, online via Zoom. Learn more at capca.net

March Racing through Mar 31

iLca Frostbite racing

Hosted by Severn Sailing Association.

through Mar 17

Frostbite racing Series 2 Sundays at Annapolis Yacht Club.

April

6 capca Leadership for captains

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

6 SpinSheet hampton crew party

6 to 8 p.m. at Marker 20 (21 E Queens Way, Hampton, VA 23669). SpinSheet’s Crew Parties are for anyone who’d like to connect with other Chesapeake Bay sailors and sail more often. Free and open to all experience levels. Register today by signing up for or updating your SpinSheet Crew Finder profile at spinsheet.com.

12 Bay Bridge Boat Show

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

13 introduction to Sea Kayaking

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

13 Boats and Brews

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

15 capca monthly meeting

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

15-19 Fawcett manufacturers’ rep Week

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

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

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

20 Sail and Sell: a maritime market collective Day

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

26-28 annapolis Spring Sailboat Show

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

27 Bonfire and Sailing trivia night

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

28 SpinSheet annapolis crew party

4 to 6 p.m. (following the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show) at Eastport Yacht Club (317 First Street, Annapolis, MD 21403). Outdoor party held rain or shine, featuring live music by The Geckos. SpinSheet’s Crew Parties are for anyone who’d like to connect with other Chesapeake Bay sailors and sail more often. Free and open to all. Register today by signing up for or updating your SpinSheet Crew Finder profile at spinsheet.com.

April Racing

3 BBSa Little creek Sa Wednesday night racing Begins Wednesdays out of Broad Bay/Little Creek Sailing Association, Norfolk, VA.

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

4 BBSa Willoughby thursday night racing

Broad Bay/Willoughby Racers, Norfolk, VA.

18-21 charleston race Week

Charleston, SC.

22-26

Santa maria cup Women’s match racing

Hosted by Eastport Yacht Club

This Spring!

Over the years we’ve profiled more than 100 sailors in the Chesapeake region who took up the sport as adults. We wonder, where are they now?

Team SpinSheet is planning a series of articles to answer that question. If you’ve shared your story on the pages of Start Sailing Now and would like to update us on your sailing progress since we first interviewed you, we’d love to hear from you. Send a note to beth@spinsheet.com and let us know about your racing, cruising, paddling, or powerboating adventures on the water. Have you bought a boat? Started racing? Sailed beyond the Bay? Made new sailing friends? Tried your hand at night sailing? Volunteered with an on-water program? Introduced others to sailing? We’d like to celebrate your accomplishments and share them with our readers. As always, our goal is to inspire other adults to start sailing now!

How t o Start Sailing t his Spring Spring is an excellent time to begin sailing because you will have the heart of the sailing season ahead of you to learn new skills and practice them.

If you’ve been curious about sailing or wondered what it would be like to be

aboard one of the many sailboats you’ve seen on the Bay and its tributaries, there’s no time like the present. Over the next month or two, sailors and sailing schools around the region will be dusting off boats and splashing them into the water. Most of those

boats take more than one person to sail, so skippers will be looking for crewmembers.

You might wonder, “What do I have to offer a skipper if I’ve never before sailed or have limited skills?” If you’re open to some informal coaching and on-the-job learning, there are plenty of skippers who will welcome a newbie. Bring your positive attitude, coachable mind frame, friendly demeanor, and maybe a six pack of beer or a bag of pretzels, and you’ll be a welcome addition on many boats.

Loads of local sailors have picked up enough skills to become valuable crewmembers without ever taking a formal class. Talk to friends, coworkers, and outdoor enthusiasts in your social and personal circles, and ask if they own a boat or know someone who does that might welcome an eager and affable learner.

You will find many sailors to network with at the SpinSheetsponsored Crew Parties happening

# Photo courtesy of J/World Annapolis

# Photo courtesy of Annapolis Sailing School

this spring. SpinSheet’s Crew Parties are for anyone who’d like to connect with other Chesapeake Bay sailors and sail more often. See the sidebar for more information.

Another great resource is SpinSheet’s Crew Finder website page, where boat owners and crew can connect with one another. Find it at spinsheet.com/ crew-finder.

Finally, check a few local sailing schools. Such schools offer a comprehensive approach to building your skills. Sailing classes are an excellent way to make sure you’re learning best practices and not picking up sloppy habits. Each school has its own ‘flavor,’ so visit them online, make a call, and then go make an appointment to stop by in person. Get a feel for the staff and the boats they teach on. You will find many reputable schools advertising in the pages and pixels of SpinSheet. Be sure to look for our Adult Sailing Schools feature article in the April issue and find lots more resources and inspiring stories at spinsheet.com/start-sailing-now

A2024 Crew Party Dates, t imes, and l ocations

ll are welcome at SpinSheet’s Crew Parties, which are free and open to all experience levels. If you’re looking for a boat, we’ll give you a name tag that says so, then you go mingle. Sailors who have a boat and are looking for crew will be identified by their nametags. It’s a great way to meet new people and learn more about the Chesapeake sailing scene.

Solomons Sunday, March 10, 4 - 6 p.m.

Southern Maryland Sailing Association

14490 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688

Hampton Saturday, April 6, 6 - 8 p.m.

Marker 20

21 E Queens Way, Hampton, VA 23669

Annapolis Sunday, April 28, 4 - 6 p.m.

Eastport Yacht Club

317 First St, Annapolis, MD 21403

Following the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show and featuring live music by the Geckos. Outdoor party held rain or shine, so dress for the weather.

spinsheet.com/crew-parties

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.

• 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

•

•

Jeepers Creepers: The Mighty Sound of a Tiny Frog

The northern spring peeper's call is one of the first signs of spring in March.

By Pamela Tenner Kellett

In the upper Chesapeake region March comes in not with a roar, but with an ear-piercing peep, the mating call of the male northern spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer crucifer).

As the weather begins to warm, I am always eager to sleep with our bedroom window open, especially after a long winter of breathing dry, heated air. We have a small pond in our field, the perfect habitat for the northern spring peeper, Maryland’s smallest tree frog.

Our kids always enjoyed looking for tadpoles in the pond and skating in very small circles in the winter. One of their favorite children’s books was

called “What’s Wrong Now, Millicent?” by Sue Alexander. A tale of two hippo buddies, Millicent was always complaining about Mother Nature: “the roses are too thorny,” “the moon is too bright.” Her hippo companion Ellsworth is a “fixer,” always trying to make things right (while ignoring her whininess). At the risk of being Millicent, when the spring peepers start calling at an incredibly ear-piercing whistle once every second, I have to close my windows as the “frogs are being too loud!”

How can something so tiny make such a loud sound?

Fun Frog Facts:

Song: The vocal sac of the spring peeper is almost the size of its body: three quarters of an inch to an inch and a quarter long.

The males’ calls are used not only to attract a mate, but also to defend its territory. Females are attracted to the speed and volume of the call. Calls are louder when it is humid or just after a spring rain. If the males are congregating, the calls can be heard up to 2.5 miles away!

Color: Olive to brown with a darker X on the back (hence the species name crucifer crucifer). Long sticky toe pads make them excellent tree climbers.

Breeding: Occurs March through June; the females lay hundreds of eggs which take six to 12 days to hatch. Tadpoles take two months to become frogs and are reproductively mature at one year.

Longevity: three years.

Super cool fun fact: Northern spring peepers produce glucose that acts like a natural antifreeze in order to hibernate during the winter, and their heart and lungs actually stop working. They “defrost” in spring.

Learn more at chesapeakebay.net; click on “Discover the Chesapeake” and “Field Guide.”

# A spring peeper tries to attract a mate in a vernal pool at Kings Gap State Park in Thurmont, PA.

Photo by Will Parson/Chesapeake Bay Program

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.

M EET C OLLIN C ESSNA , A RTIST AND M USICIAN

Interview by Gwen Mayes

When his career in environmental science wasn’t the right fit, Baltimore native Collin Cessna switched to his first love in life—painting— as a full-time vocation and way to see the world.

What does someone first notice about your art?

It’s very colorful, and the subjects are often exaggerated or distorted. Boats and landscapes are often painted in a modern almost cartoony or illustrative style with bold black lines. Colors can be realistic but dramatic in shade, often bolder than typically seen. For example, the pink and orange colors of the sky are much deeper than in reality.

What led you to become an artist?

Since grade school I’ve been making art. I attended George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology, a Baltimore county-wide public magnet high school, originally established in 1992, as one of three geographically spread technology high schools. People kept telling me I couldn’t make a living as an artist, so I gave it up and took various jobs in construction. With my degree in environmental science, I found the jobs in construction were not as satisfying as I had hoped. Several years ago, I made the hard choice to devote my full-time effort to my art.

What one word describes your art?

Playful and slightly abstract.

How does the Bay shape what you paint?

I love to explore marinas and find interesting scenes of boats of all kinds. Docked boats are wonderful to paint because they cast shadows on the water that are challenging to paint late in the day when the sun is setting and the lighting and coloring shifts.

How do you get in the mood to paint?

I listen to music. Music puts my mind at ease and acts as a cue for me to get into the groove of a painting. To see it fresh. My wife and I are musicians, and our music helps me find a connection with the scene I want to create on canvas.

Water is always moving. How do you capture that in art?

I love painting water to capture its movement. I use a variety of mediums while painting and drawing, and different mediums allow me to capture water under different conditions. For calm scenes where the water is somewhat still, I prefer oil paints that cover large areas of the canvas and allow for nice blending. For painting

# Images by Collin Cessna

rough, turbulent water scenes I like to use water-based paint because it can be applied loosely and dries quickly. I like to paint in plein air, and using water-based paint helps me capture the feel of rushing water.

What’s next?

My wife and I will travel in a small RV across the country. I’ll paint everyday life in small cities and spend time getting to know the locals. You can make lifelong friends from across the country by taking time to focus on different towns, historical areas, and the people who call them home.

Where can you be reached?

Contact me at collincessnaartwork@ gmail.com or through collincessnaartwork.com. My works are at the Annapolis Marine Art Gallery and the Riverview Gallery in Havre de Grace, MD. I have an upcoming solo art show at the Dorchester Center for the Arts in Cambridge, MD, from April 5-27, with a reception on April 13 from 5-7 p.m.

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.

Annapolis Sailboat Show, booth D-5

Annapolis Sailboat Show, booth D

Congratulations, SpinSheet Century Club and Racing team!

On February 10, nearly 100 boaters met at Bacon Sails and Marine Supplies for our 10th annual Century Club and Racing Team celebration for beer, cake, awards, and a lot of boat talk.

We awarded the Erewhon Award in honor of Jack Sherwood to our top-scoring Centurion, David Sites, for logging a whopping 365 days on the water. All previous Erewhon Award winners were in attendance: Dave Nestel, Sean Martin, and Bob Alusic. Four sailors who had logged 100 days for 10 years in a row celebrated together: Martin, Nestel, Ashley Love, and Michael Jewell.

Thank you to Bacon Sails for hosting and sponsoring the Century Club and to Team One Newport for its longtime sponsorship of the Racing Team. Learn how you can qualify for the 2024 club and team at spinsheet.com

# Tim Mooney (101 days) celebrates in style!

# Sean Martin, Dave Nestel, Ashley Love, and Michael Jewell logged at least 100 days on the water for 10 years in a row!

# Bacon Sails seemed the perfect party venue for this crew!

The Century Club Class of 2023

Abby Postle

Aidan Gray

Alan Batcheller

Alan Bomar

Albert Chatard

Alison Banholzer

Americo Cottely

Andrew Lam

Andrew Shingledecker

Anne Stevens

Ashley Love

Aubrey Marino

Ben Clark

Bill Wheary

Billy Hannigan

Bob Gallagher

Bob Ohler

Brian Robinson

Captain Boomies

Casey Firth

Cheryl Duvall

Chris Bates

Cindy Wallach

Cynthia C

Dave Nestel

David Brewer

David Sites

David Stalfort

Dianne Sullivan

Dino Frangos

Donald Kohlhafer

Dorian Haldeman

Doug and Becky Firth

Doug Stryker

Drew Mutch

Ed Tracey

Eric Packard

Eric Richardson

Frank McGowan

Gary Parr

Gerhard Straub

Gerhard Straub

Glenn Robertson

Greg Brennan

Greg Harttraft

Gregory Urban

Gregory Welker

Haley Varner

Hannah Dickmyer

Heather Irene Howard

Jack Regan

James Appel

james Borrelli

James Ronayne

Jane Millman

Janet Neves

Jason Fox

Jayne Durden

Jeff Joy

Jeffrey Thompson

Jere Glover

Jeremy Salkin

Joanna Cooper

Joe Commings

John Burke

John Schafer

Jonathan Nepini

Jordan Stock

Jose Turcios

Julianne D Fettus

Karen Wood

Keith Chapman

Keith Donald

Kelly McMurray

Kelly Smith

Ken Vinson

Kevin Littell

Koralina McKenna

Lars Rathjen

Laura Ladenheim

LeAnn Myhre

Lenny Rudow

Lisa-Marie Lane

Lorie Stout

Mark Hergan

Mark Witte

Mason Cook

Matthew Brown

Matthew Coyle

Maude Laurence

Melissa Bloom

Michael Bevis

Michael Christman

Michael Jewell

Michael McCauley

Michael-Anne Ashford

Mike Gomez

Mike Pitchford

Naia Wallach

Nathan Younge

Nick Simpson

Nikki Bruno

Pete Lesher

Peter Shingledecker

Priscilla H.

Reeve Heinis

Rich Inman

Richard Turman

Rob Hindman

Robert Alusic

Robert Marino

Robin Witte

Roger Bowes

Russ Borman

Saoirse Taylor

Sean Martin

Shari Argue

Stefanie Brady

Stephanie Sams

Steven Birchfield

Sunny Sturmer

Suzanne Carter

Suzanne Fryberger

Terry McCauley

Terry Slattery

Tim Ford

Tim Mooney

Timothy Dull

Tom Dean

Tony Moynagh

Varner Burke

Vicki Saporta

Walter Reiter

Wayne Cassady

# Shown here with editor Molly Winans, David Sites holds the Erewhon Award in honor of Jack Sherwood for being the top-scoring Century Club member. Photo by James Ronayne

Chestertown and the Chester River

By Molly Winans

“One of the reasons why the Chester is so great is that it’s off the beaten path,” says Drew McMullen, the president and founder of the Sultana Education Foundation. “You have to work a little extra hard to get to Chestertown. It has the same population now as it did in 1776; that’s why it’s so well preserved.”

McMullen, who’s lived in Chestertown since 1995, notes that on the Schooner Sultana, traveling at six knots, the crew can go from the entrance of the winding Chester River to the colonial seaport in about four hours “depending on the tides.”

We reached out to McMullen and Annie Richards, the Chester Riverkeeper, to learn more about their connection to the river and what anchorages and shoreside attractions they recommend to cruising sailors.

Richards grew up a mile north of the Chester River Bridge and admits that she took all the sailing, waterskiing, and watery fun for granted until high school when she had “a transformational experience at the Echo Hill Outdoor School.” She spent a week on the Skipjack Elsworth “exploring marshes and hearing poetry and stories of those whose lives had been shaped by the waterfront. I started to understand what a unique resource it was.”

Richards later worked at the school, earned her captain’s license at the age of 20, and left for a few years to “get some bluewater experience.” After a few years of marine-related jobs, such as working on a charter catamaran, for Seamester in southeast Asia, and for Maine Maritime Academy, she returned to the Chester to settle in and raise her family with her husband Forrest Richards, the senior

local Favorites

McMullen and Richards’s local tips for food and beverage within walking distance of the waterfront: Casa Carmen Wines and Bodega. Regional wines and tapas, “simple menu and fun (312 Cannon Street).”

Evergrain Bakery Company.

“An old-world-style bakery offering European bread and pastries, baguettes, croissants, and pre-made sandwiches to go that you can take back to your boat (201 High Street).”

the Kitchen at the Imperial.

More traditional Eastern Shore fare: crab cakes, steak, and farmto-table menu (208 High Street).

the Retriever Bar.

As the sign suggests, “Come, sit, stay.” Oyster bar, bistro menu, and cocktails (337 ½ High Street).

Watershed alley Restaurant.

“The rich tradition of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, updated, refined, and celebrated. Brunch, lunch, happy hour, dinner (337 High Street).”

Zelda’s Speakeasy.

No sign, but there’s a green light on the door when it’s open on Thursdays and Fridays; second floor. Limited food, fun for a drink (108 S. Cross Street).

# An aerial of Chestertown, MD. Photo courtesy of Kent County Maryland

captain of the Sultana. She’s been the Chester Riverkeeper for three years and goes out on the river every week for seven months of the year for water-quality monitoring, as well as sailing with family out of the Rock Hall Yacht Club.

“There’s value knowing a place your whole life,” says Richards about what makes the river special. “When you look out on the water, there are miles of shoreline that haven’t changed for hundreds of years (except for phragmites!). At every cliff, every cove, I have some memories from childhood, sailing, work, or taking my kids there (two boys, five and one). I feel as if heading down the Chester River is like opening up a scrapbook.”

Where to anchor

Both of the Chestertown locals we interviewed grew up sailing. McMullen, who cut his teeth on a Sunfish, later owned a Cal 25 and “sailed all over the Bay.”

When asked what anchorages he’d recommend to cruising sailors visiting the Chester, he says, “Work your way up. Queenstown Creek is great. Up creek to left, there’s a beautiful anchorage. As with most anchorages on the Chester, you’re not going anywhere except at anchor.”

Richards notes, “Go to Reed Creek on the Queen Anne’s side, just before the Corsica River. If you’re a diehard fisherman, anchor there. You will find incredible solitude, beautiful views of 1000-acre farms, and little tributaries you can dinghy up and explore.”

As for the Corsica River, McMullen says, “There’s a little bay. If you go up and around to the next little bay, that one is spectacular. It’s well-protected. You could go up in a hurricane.”

Across the Chester from the Corsica, McMullen recommends “Grays Inn Creek, the first left going upriver.”

He also enjoys Langford Creek, the east and west forks. “Go up past where they split; they’re both beautiful with pretty houses. I personally like the east fork of Langford Creek. That’s where we took Sultana as a hurricane hole (we don’t do that anymore, as we made our own hurricane dock).”

Richards says her favorite is Langford Creek “hands down. If you’re not going there, you‘re missing the jewel of the river. In summertime the west fork has good holding in storms. You can dinghy into Cacaway Island for lunch.”

A little farther north sailors will find Comegys Bight. McMullen says, “It’s a very good anchorage, a little exposed, but unless it’s howling, you’re fine.” He notes that there can be a lot of powerboats in summer, yet “in waterfowl season, it’s full of birds. Go in October!”

More tips for Sailors

When asked what sailors should know about these days, McMullen responds, “Chestertown has a new marina (Chestertown Marina). It’s a humongous improvement. It’s beautiful with floating

docks and nice bathrooms and showers; a great place for a group of boats to come.”

For visiting cruisers, “There’s plenty to do within walking distance—there’s a food store downtown that is a very nice place for cruisers to go (Chestertown Natural Foods, 303 Cannon Street). There’s good shopping, too. There’s plenty to do to kill a day or weekend in Chestertown.”

Richards says, “As a recreational boater on the Chester—I swim and fish, and my children and dog do, too—I know how to regularly access the bacteria score. After significant rain events, check in with ShoreRivers about the pollution loads. ShoreRivers regularly monitors for bacteria from Memorial Day through Labor Day. We test on Thursdays, so we’re ready for the weekend. All the data are available on our website: shorerivers.org/swim. Also, I recommend the Swim Guide app for any public access location anywhere in the world.”

Richards also hopes sailors learn where the subaquatic vegetation grows (find Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) interactive SAV map). “If you’re going into an anchorage where there is a thriving SAV bed, maybe anchor a little bit deeper to avoid messing up grasses. Trim your dinghy motor to not impact grasses.”

learn More

Sultana Education Foundation: Hands-on educational programs, camps, paddling, Annual Gala (May 11), and Downrigging Weekend (November 1-3); sultanaeducation.org.

ShoreRivers: Protects and restores Eastern Shore waterways through science-based advocacy, restoration, and education; shorerivers.org

Explore Chestertown: Learn about the Chestertown Tea Party (May 24) and upcoming events, such as farmer’s and artisan’s markets; mainstreetchestertown.org.

# Annie Richards on the Chester Riverkeeper boat. Photo Courtesy of Pivot Bio

# The Schooner Sultana under full sail on the Chestertown waterfront.

Photo by Chris Cerino

The Fastest Female Rowing Pair Breaks the World Record Across the Atlantic

On January 27, Nini Champion and Lisa Roland of Team Ocean Grown didn’t just cross the finish line of The World’s Toughest Row, a 3000-nautical-mile, unassisted rowing race from La Gomera, Spain, to English Harbor, Antigua—they broke the world record for the fastest female pairs team by nearly six hours. Onboard their ocean-rowing vessel Invictus, the team completed the race in 45 days, one hour, and 27 minutes.

After leaving La Gomera, the team encountered 20-30 knots of wind out of the east with nine- to 15-foot seas. “While many teams experienced sea sickness during this time, fortunately, we did not,” says Champion.

“In fact, we were loving the speeds our vessel would hit in some of the mountainous waves, hitting our alltime high of 14.7 knots. By the second week, we found ourselves in quite the opposite conditions: first in about five knots of headwinds and then very little to no breeze. This lasted until about week four. The light air and blistering sun during the day were brutal conditions to row in. Even when the breeze began to fill, we found the sea was still challenging to row through due to high barometric pressure. Lisa described it as rowing through bubble gum. It was not until the final night when we experienced conditions that hurdled us towards the finish line in Antigua.”

One of the greatest challenges for the pair was the autopilot kicking off when they didn’t have enough weight in the stern of the boat, leaving the rudder out of the water and the boat beam to the waves. “From this point, it was a fight to get Invictus back downwind; the most successful way of combating this was to have one person pumping the rudder via hand steering while the other put all of their power into short, rapid strokes on the windward oar.”

On the light-air, sunny days, the team remained “diligent” about nourishment and water consumption.

“We did also have a system, towards the end of our first week at sea, where we had to combat headwinds. We did six hours rowing with both of us on the oars averaging about 1.8 knots, after which we allowed ourselves to regain a proper rest on the para-anchor.”

Training and Motivation

Three years of physical training before this race paid off. “We were traveling a lot and found the most important thing was to stay active. If we had access to a gym, we would focus on weight training and distance training. If we did not have that available, we would practice running, hiking, yoga, kite-boarding, and other forms of crosstraining. About a year and a half prior to the start, we secured the funds to purchase our R25 ocean rowing vessel, Invictus.”

Both found jobs in St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. “This was by far the best physical training we had, in the vessel itself. We would put ourselves into challenging conditions to best prepare ourselves for what we would face in the

Atlantic. For instance, we did a training row from the southwest end of St Thomas and spent 18 hours rowing up-wind (five hours rowing with both of us on the oars) to make our way to rounding the northeast end of St. John.”

The team believes this training along with “our own individual, intrinsic motives, allowed us to culminate a driving force and mental fortitude to persevere. We were going to make it to the finish line, regardless of what we were up against.”

In their bag of tricks to keep them motivated were letters from family they’d requested before departure. “On days where we felt discouraged, it was great to be able to pull out some words of motivation and faith. Even having screenshots of encouraging comments from Sonya Payton, our social media manager, would give us a boost.”

They had their own personal mantras as well. Champion repeated, “’I can. Be here now. It’s okay to be scared. It’s okay to feel lonely. Trust in me. I love you.’ These words seemed to diminish any flickers of doubt or concern.”

Both visualized the finish line and the moment they would row past the English

# Nini Champion and Lisa Roland completed the 3000-mile rowing race in 45 days, one hour, and 27 minutes, breaking the world record. Photos by World’s Toughest Row

Harbor channel and reunite with loved ones in Antigua.

Gear Challenges

When it came to gear challenges, the first was their auto-helms. “We had three Raymarine ST2000s onboard, and within the first week we only had one working. To prevent our good one from burning out, we would hand-steer to give it a break. We dug into the other two and learned one had a broken bearing, and the other a broken compass. We were able to replace the broken bearing from the one with a broken compass, and fortunately had two working autohelms again, which we would swap out every 6-12 hours depending on how rough the sea-state was.”

When pinned to the waves abeam, “the oars were prone to pitch-poling and getting stuck vertically. This led to bending the oar gates along with the small, aluminum plates that served as out-riggers. When we did not correct the oars position in time (get them to lie horizontally) or get our heading to be downwind again, a wave on the beam could force the leeward oar in its vertical position to snap. This happened three times, breaking two oars, and fracturing one. To the fractured oar, we used ducttape to prevent any water getting in and used a hack-saw to split and cut off the bottom of a coffee mug. (We used this) in combination with two hose-clamps to serve as a brace to the weak spot in the oar, which worked surprisingly well!”

Nourishment and Sleep

Onboard Invictus, the team had a watermaker powered by solar panels to two lithium batteries, which also powered their navigation equipment. They ran the watermaker mid-day with the sun directly overhead and made extra water when an overcast day was forecasted.

“For our meals, we would heat the water using a Jetboil and pour this in with a Tupperware full of a select freezedried meal. Lisa went above and beyond to order and prepare a meal plan where we packaged our own carefully vacuumpacked meals. They were delicious, nutritious, and calorie-rich. About once a week we would make extra water to shower and wash some clothes as well.”

Most of the time the team kept a watch schedule of two hours on, two hours off, “aside from one or two nights

against headwinds where we found ourselves on para-anchor.”

When they had wind and waves from astern, they “hot-bunked” the aft cabin to ensure weight was in the back end of the boat. Otherwise, Lisa would sleep in the bow cabin, and Nini in the stern cabin.

“Two hours on the oars was most challenging when we did not have much wind or current assisting our momentum and when the sun was beating down on us. When off the oars, we made a good practice of removing foul-weather gear or wet clothes to prevent saltwater or pressure sores, maintaining good hygiene, preparing meals, and getting rest.”

On more than one occasion, they encountered other rowing teams at sea. “The first team to appear on our AIS, after losing sight of others when leaving La Gomera, was Mermaid Atlantic. After them, we saw Eurosafe Blue Atlantics and solo rowers 721, and Liz Wardley. While we only saw Liz once, passing her in light conditions, we found she was fun competition for us as we had a back and forth in overall position in the race a few times. When the breeze picked up towards our final week leading up to the finish, she made serious gains benefitting from her vessel being lighter overall. A massive congratulations to her setting a race record as a female solo, and we look forward to following her progress in rowing the Pacific Challenge this June.”

An Inspiring Mission

The team’s mission was inspired by Lisa’s story. “Having grown up in foster care in Canada, sailing was a catalyst to changing her path, and she has gone

on to become a successful captain. Nini also works in the sailing industry, and it has been through our networks that we have been able to develop a mission that is powerful and unique. The Bridges Over Water (BOW) Fund, a result of donations and a portion of the sale of our rowing vessel Invictus, has been developed to help youth who have aged out of foster care to find careers in the maritime industry.

“We have been working with some of the best in the sailing industry throughout the development of BOW to provide our applicants with one-onone mentorship to ensuring they obtain the necessary course-work and skills for job-placement and in turn a career path that best meets their desires. A few of our partners include: The Crew Academy, She of the Sea, and the North East Keelboat Alliance. We are very grateful for all of the help from our partners and sponsors and very much look forward to our next steps in selecting our scholarship applicants and getting them on track to a bright and successful future.”

The team aspires to provide six to 10 young adults (ages 18-30) who have aged out of the foster care system, or spent 10 years or more in the system, with the opportunity to find a career in the maritime industry.

“If you, or someone you know, may be interested, please share… just because someone does not live near the water, or perhaps has little to no maritime experience, does not mean that they do not qualify! In fact, this could be just the opportunity and experience we hope to provide: changing lives.”

To access the BOW application, visit oceangrown.co/mission.

What’s Your Recovery Plan? Expect The Unexpected.

Safety Serie S : Part 3

Safety Training for Sailors

Why Smart Sailors a ttend Safety-at-Sea

On a sailboat it’s not uncommon for a few small issues to compound quickly into a more complex problem. And wouldn’t you just know it, such things seem always to happen at the worst times—at night, in heavy seas, when the crew’s experiencing seasickness, during a downpour, you get the idea. Safety training can play a vital role in helping skippers and crew to make calm, rational decisions when things start going sideways. Smart sailors take safety seriously, and some of the best safety training around, US Sailing’s Safety at Sea, is offered right here on the Chesapeake.

What sets Safety at Sea apart?

Widely recognized as the gold standard in safety training and seamanship, Safety at Sea courses are offered online and in-person around the country. In each location special attention is given to the conditions and challenges of the host organization’s sailing area. Live demonstrations, hands-on components, and extraordinarily qualified speakers are just a few seminar features that set these programs apart. Topics include man-over-board prevention and recovery, US Coast Guard communications, best practices for managing a boat during heavy weather, safety equipment, weather forecasting, emergency medical interventions, contact avoidance, damage control, search and rescue, and much more. Safety at Sea offers a few course tracks. Certificates may be earned on some tracks and are valid for five years from the date of issue.

On the Chesapeake, Safety at Sea is offered twice in 2024. The Marine Trades Association of Maryland will offer the seminar on April 6-7 at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis. The new Superintendent of the Academy, Rear Admiral

Yvette Davids, will give the opening remarks. Davids was on the Naval Academy dinghy team when she was a midshipman and served as the Director of Naval

Academy Sailing as a Commander. In addition to lectures and training, the program will be highlighted by demonstrations on Saturday, including a helicopter rescue by the United States Coast Guard (weather permitting), pyrotechnic flare displays, life raft deployment, and a man-over-board recovery performed by midshipman from Navy Sailing training vessels. The public is invited Saturday to observe the on-water live demonstrations on the Severn River. Viewing spots will be available from the Naval Academy grounds. Check the Academy website for details on identification needed for entry at the gate.

Safety at Sea is also offered in Newport News, VA. It is called The Captain Henry Marx Memorial US Sailing International Safety at Sea Course and is held at the Mariners’ Museum. It unfolds beginning March 2. However, ticket sales ended in February.

# In-pool training offers practice in a controlled environment. It is offered for both the racing and cruising tracks. Photos courtesy of the Marine Trades Association of Maryland

The Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) will host Safety at Sea April 6-7 at the US Naval Academy. The Safety for Cruising course is for individuals seeking offshore training but who do not need certification, as it does not include a US Sailing Certificate. Three US Sailing-sanctioned certificate courses will be offered: Offshore Sailing, International Offshore Safety with Hands-on Training, and International Offshore Hands-on Only Training.

Date: April 6-7

Time: Saturday, beginning at 7 a.m.; events wrap up Sunday at 3 p.m.

Register: mtam.org/safety-at-sea

Tickets: Prices range from $185 to $435 depending on the courses/certifications selected; prices include lunch.

Location: Mahan Hall and other sites at the US Naval Academy

Learn more: mtam.org. From the homepage, click on the Boaters tab at the top left. Find Safety at Sea in the drop-down menu, or call (410) 269-0741; email jstefancik@mtam.org

Who should attend?

With the word ‘safety’ in its title, you might guess that Safety at Sea Seminars are only for bluewater sailors. Good news, you’d be incorrect. Safety at Sea is geared to inform and educate all kinds of boaters, and organizers encourage a wide range of experience levels to enroll. Courses are appropriate for: sailors of small and big boats, whether monohulls or multihulls; sailors who operate vessels nearshore or offshore; racers; cruisers; skippers and crewmembers. They even welcome powerboaters.

If you’re crew looking for a spot on an offshore race or passage, or even a distance race on the Bay, a Safety at Sea certification contributes to your bone fides, demonstrating to skippers that you are serious.

If you’re a skipper entering an offshore race, check the Notice of Race to verify which certificate (if any) is required for participation. Check also to see the minimum number of crew required to be certified. And remember, there are less rigorous course tracks than the ones that lead to certification. This might be a good option for some of your crew.

Course offerings

Safety at Sea is offered twice this spring in the Chesapeake region. When this issue hits the docks, registration for the first one, held in the Hampton area, will have already closed. Below are the course offerings in Annapolis. Find registration information on page 42.

Offshore Sailing Course: US Sailing Offshore Sailing Certificate, valid for five years, obtained by attending Saturday classes and demonstrations only. A full-day class April 6, $185

International Offshore Safety & Hands-on Training Combo: Begins April 6 in Mahan Hall and covers US Sailing required topics. Hands-on classes, including pool time on April 7, $435

International Offshore Safety Hands-on Training Only: Provides a valid certificate only if participants complete Units 11-15 of US Sailing’s Offshore Safety at Sea online course or they’ve attained an Offshore Certificate within the last 365 days. April 7, $300.

Safety for Cruising: Includes all lectures and demonstrations on Saturday and much of the same hands-on training taught by experts on Sunday during the accredited courses. This course is designed for cruisers and does not result in a US Sailing Certificate, $320.

Spring Commissioning Checklist M N

By Captain Steven Toole

As warmer weather approaches, the sailing season beckons us for many months of great times on the water this year. But it’s no fun to be stranded out on the water due to equipment failure. Now is the time to go over every inch of your boat with a fine-toothed comb to make sure everything is in tip top shape for another great sailing season. Here’s a helpful checklist to help guide your pre-commissioning ritual in order to best prepare your boat to take on anything the Bay brings her way. This is by no means intended to be an exhaustive list, and of course each boat has its own individual items not covered here. Check your owner’s manuals, user forums, and other resources to supplement this list with other guidance appropriate to your particular boat.

Engine

• It’s generally recommended to change the oil and filter at the end of the season so old, dirty oil doesn’t sit in the engine pan all winter long. If you didn’t do it in the fall, be sure to do an oil and filter change before launching.

• Check your belt(s) and replace if any visible signs of wear or cracking are evident and make sure the tension is correct.

• Fuel filter(s): it’s also a good annual practice to replace if not replaced in the fall.

• Impeller: replace every one to two years.

Electrical

Check your battery(s) and make sure the contacts are clean. Top them off with distilled water if you have lead-acid batteries onboard. Check the manufactured date and replace if they’re approaching their maximum usable life. Test the batteries and charge them if needed.

# Spring launch day comes soon!

Hull

• Carefully inspect the hull for cracks, blisters, gelcoat wear, any possible anchor chain damage, or delamination, particularly in the rudder. If the hull is in good condition, consider a fresh coat of bottom paint.

• Remove any barnacles or other growth on the propellor, shaft, and strut, and inspect the components for pitting or other damage. If everything looks good after a thorough cleaning, apply some PropCoat to prevent fouling throughout the season. Replace your anode(s) annually as well.

• I usually wax the hull above the waterline before launching, to remove dirt and provide a polished look.

Safety

• Check to make sure your fire extinguishers are charged and not expired.

• Check your safety flares to make sure they’re not expired and are in good physical condition.

• Replace the CO2 cartridges on your inflatable life vests.

• Take inventory of your onboard first aid kit and replace outdated meds and other items.

• Visit spinsheet.com/category/safety for more great tips; turn to page 41 for Safety at Sea Seminar details.

Deck and Rigging

Inspect all deck hardware for signs of damage or corrosion.

• Take a good look at your sheets, halyards, and all other running

rigging for signs of wear, dry rot, or animal gnawing. Ravens had a field day on my tackline a few years ago, rendering it unusable.

• Check your chainplates for visible signs of rust, pitting, or cracking. Be sure to look below deck as well. Any signs of water near the base of the chainplates indicate leakage and possible rust underneath.

• Give the deck a scrubbing and waxing to remove surface mildew and provide a clean, protective coat.

• Consider cleaning and lubricating your winches if it’s been more than two years (visit spinsheet.com/category/how-to for a step-by-step guide).

Sails

Having your sails professionally washed annually will help improve usable life and keep your sails looking great. Whether your sails were stored in your garage or onboard, they may have made a nice winter home for small critters. Take a careful look at your sail bags for signs of this long before your launch date.

Brightwork

Treat your teak with appropriate cleaners and conditioners to remove grime, protect for the season, and have it looking great for your onboard guests.

Standing Rigging

Consult your boat’s tuning guide to ensure that your standing rigging is properly tuned for the season.

Plumbing

Flush all freshwater systems to remove antifreeze and fill with appropriate amounts of water to start your season.

Electronics and Navigation Lighting

• Power up your electronics and perform a radio check (on channel 9, not 16).

• Test your chartplotter and any other electronic devices.

• Switch on your nav lights at dusk to make sure they’re in proper working order. Replace any bulbs or wiring as needed.

Many of these items can be done well before the start of the season. Other items such as bottom painting need to be done in temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. My personal approach is to do as much of the cooler-weatherfriendly items as soon as possible and to watch the weather forecast for the first warmer-weather stretches to get the bottom painting done.

Many of these items can also be done after the spring launch if the boat has been hauled out for the winter. Budgeting your time wisely and using the weather to your advantage can help you get the earliest start with your boat best prepared for another great season on the Bay.

About the Author:

Capt. Steven Toole, an active racer and cruiser on his J/120 Hot Pepper, is the vice president of the Chesapeake Racer Cruiser Association and a board member of the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association.

Learn More

Find a more complete checklist and other resources at boatus.com/spring-preparation.

# The author doing a spring scrubdown.

# Prop: before.

# Prop: after.

Finding a Home for your Boat?

It’s Personal!

By Captain Cheryl Duvall

Over the last 14 years, my husband and I have signed annual contracts with five different marinas in the Chesapeake region. That’s an average stay of 2.3 years per marina, though our longest residency lasted five years. We owned two different boats during that time, and the decision-making that preceded marina selections varied due to shifting priorities as we became more seasoned sailors.

Selecting a marina is a highly personal choice. There are many factors to consider besides overall costs, and criteria will inevitably change as life on land and water evolves. When we bought our first cruiser, I had mostly sailed J/22 engineless keelboats and had never docked a longer boat under power. Finding a marina with an easy approach for less stressful docking was high on the priority list. Fourteen years later I’m a licensed captain and adept at docking but will still give a thumbs up to a well-positioned slip.

When looking for a new home for your boat, marina websites are a good first step before in-person visits. Consider the following before shortlisting candidates:

Geographic location

Think practically about the ideal marina location, including:

• Sailing distance to interesting destinations or races. Racers may select marinas based on distance to races they participate in, while cruisers may choose a marina more centrally located to preferred gunkholes.

• Driving distance to boat including traffic at peak hours. For those who work nine to five, sailing may be limited to short evening sails or weekend cruises. Consider evening commute times and potential summer weekend traffic when roads are shared with beach goers.

• Congestion on the water. If you are new to boating, it may be wise to avoid marinas on busy waterways to limit

challenges as you learn to handle your boat.

• Proximity to professional services and a chandlery. If quick access to professionals or parts is a priority, you might highlight marinas that are located near desirable resources. Off-premise contractors may charge travel time if too distant.

Marina attributes

Once geographic boundaries are established, assess what type of marina makes sense for the intended use of your boat. Annual slip costs vary greatly due to location as well as marina amenities. Liveaboards will have additional criteria since many marinas limit or deny slips to those who want to live full-time on their boat. Captains who want to run charters from their boat need to inquire if business use is allowed. Other considerations include:

• Posh marina with amenities or basic boatyard. Some marinas offer a variety of amenities including pools and wellappointed shower facilities, while others function more as a working boatyard with basic restrooms. Since “you get what you pay for,” be sure you will use the amenities if opting for an upscaled marina. Access to easy parking is an added consideration.

• Travelift: Not all marinas have the capability to haul boats for winter storage, hurricane warnings, or needed maintenance. If haul-outs are important, inquire about sizes and lift availability. Some marinas offer several free haulouts with an annual slip contract, so factor that into cost comparisons.

• Access to qualified contractors or doit-yourself (DIY). Some marinas don’t allow DIY projects but can connect you

to qualified professionals or their own staff. Other marinas allow you to do your own work if you follow environmental guidelines and abide by noise restrictions.

your Boat and Boathandling Skills

As you begin to shortlist candidates, take a closer look at marinas that will ideally accommodate your boat and your boathandling skills. As you visit marinas to review available slips, consider:

• Length, beam, and draft. While it may seem obvious, the size of your future slip must accommodate your length overall (LOA), including dinghy davits and bowsprits, and boat width. The depth of water approaching the slip, and in the slip, must be considered including extremes due to weather events (when water blows out of the Bay) or unusual tides.

• Prevailing wind direction. Some marinas are tucked away offering protection from high winds, while others are more exposed. One of our marinas

was so sheltered that even if it was blowing 20 knots on the Bay, winds were usually less than seven knots in our fairway.

• Ease of getting in and out of slip. This is especially important if you or your crew are new to boating or handling a larger boat. If the marina cannot provide a dimensional slip layout, check satellite images and pace off distances at the marina, estimating the widths of alleys especially if you need to turn around or back down.

• Ease of getting on/off the boat. Not all slips are created equal. With long piers, sailors can easily reach lines to secure the boat, safely board crew, and load provisions. Finger piers are more challenging, and some can be extremely short, making it difficult to board crew with physical limitations.

• Bow-in or stern-in. We prefer privacy when relaxing in our cockpit, so we dock bow-in, though we often need longer cables to reach the electrical pedestal. Other boats, especially catamarans, prefer stern-in.

• On-site storage. When walking the marina, note whether storage bins are allowed at the ends of slips, and if there are dinghy launch ramps and storage racks.

Final Considerations

Once you have narrowed your search, ask for detailed lists of all costs associated with your preferred slips, including electrical and water. Request a sample contract and ask about insurance requirements. Then, consider these additional factors before making your final decision:

• Security. Before signing a contract, it’s important to understand what security measures your marina takes to protect your boat, especially if located in a busy public area. Are there gates and do they lock? Are there cameras? Are the docks well-lit? Do staff regularly walk the docks and check on boats? If you are out of town, will the marina look after your boat during your absence?

• Proximity to amenities and conveniences. When selecting a slip, note distances to the bathhouse, carts, parking, and

Yankee Point Marina

Chesapeake Bay Marinas

other amenities. It’s also helpful to locate nearby fuel docks and pumpout stations or boats.

• Social activities. If you are a social butterfly, inquire about activities and sponsored events. Many marinas offer regular gatherings to meet boat neighbors and transients.

• Keeping your boat clean. When walking potential marinas, note the cleanliness of docks and boats. Bird droppings, staining autumn leaves, and vehicle exhaust from nearby roads can directly affect how often you must thoroughly clean your boat.

Once you’ve shortlisted marinas and reviewed costs, it’s time to decide. Some marinas offer calendar year contracts while others might offer April to March or one year from the date of signing. Sailors with boats exceeding 40 feet

LOA or a five-foot draft may want to expedite decision-making since many marinas have a limited number of slips for longer or deeper boats.

Whatever you decide, remember that your boat will soon settle into her

new slip and both of you will enjoy the Chesapeake for another sailing season. Before you know it, it will be time to renew your contract or relocate to yet another beautiful corner in the land of pleasant living.

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 recently returned from 101 days at sea from Annapolis to Maine and back on her Gozzard 44 Belle Bateau: sailingbelle.net

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

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Should you Renew your Slip When you’re away Cruising?

At the beginning of last year, we did not renew our slip contract despite enjoying our marina. We had planned an extended coastal cruise to Maine and did not want to pay marina costs when we would be absent for most of the sailing season. Since we were not heading north until early June, we needed to find a temporary home for one month after spring contractors completed their work where our boat was hauled.

We researched transient rates and signed on at a marina conveniently close to our house.

Monthly transient rates are typically reduced compared to daily or weekly rates. However, we optimistically estimated when our boat would be splashed, and the clock started ticking at our slip before the contractors were done. We ended up paying for 10 days we could not use which also delayed our departure date. After refusing to adjust the dates of our contract, the marina offered us an additional week at the prorated monthly rate. We also considered snagging a mooring ball in the Annapolis Harbor since the daily rate was similar, but we did not like the idea of dinghying back and forth with supplies.

Fast forward to the fall when we returned to Annapolis just before the Sailboat Show. We needed a temporary boat home again until we hauled out for the winter. We had been warned to make transient reservations early due to boat show madness, so in July we secured and pre-paid another monthly transient slip at the same temporary marina, though in a less desirable slip than in the spring. The overall timing worked out. We saved a few thousand dollars by not renewing our slip contract at our prior marina. However, when we inquired about returning for 2024, they had no available slips for our boat size, so once again we must find a new home for our boat. Ah, such is the cruising life. Every decision has its risks and rewards. Thankfully, the Chesapeake region has abundant slip choices. ~C.D.

# View from high on a hill in Northeast Harbor, ME, at the edge of Acadia National Park. Photo by Cheryl Duvall

What’s New at Regional Marinas?

transformation in a tranquil Setting

Nautilus Point Marina, nestled in the heart of Annapolis, is set to undergo a transformation under the oversight of local management company, Trident Marine Group. This strategic move comes as The Bainbridge Companies, the marina’s parent organization, aims to elevate customer experience and operational efficiency.

The Marina at Nautilus Point in Annapolis, renowned for its tranquil setting and extensive amenities, boasts a clubhouse, gym, swimming pool, dog park, tennis court, and on-site paddleboards and kayaks. The marina caters to the diverse needs of boating enthusiasts. With 160 slips accommodating vessels up to 60 feet in length, Nautilus Point Marina provides a haven for boat owners seeking comfort and convenience. Situated

within walking distance of Eastport’s attractions and less than a mile from Annapolis City Dock, the marina offers easy access to the area’s vibrant waterfront scene.

This collaboration marks a significant step towards enhancing the marina’s offerings and solidifying its position as a

premier destination for boating enthusiasts in the Annapolis region.

To learn more about The Marina at Nautilus Point, visit marinaatnautiluspoint.com or call (443) 870-5222. To discover more about Trident Marine Group and its services, visit tridentmarine.com or call (410) 237-7278.

a New Option for Catamaran Owners

Yankee Point Marina in Lancaster, VA, offers the newest option for catamaran owners in the Chesapeake Bay region looking to haul out, whether for work or dry storage. Working closely with Brownell Systems and Marine Hydraulics USA, Yankee Point Marina CEO Todd Patterson designed a specialty hydraulic trailer to pull catamarans out using the marina’s existing boat ramp with minor modifications. The trailer can accommodate catamarans measuring up to 60-foot LOA with a 28-foot beam. Learn more at yankeepointmarina.com.

# Nautilus Point Marina in Annapolis. Photo courtesy of Trident Marine Group

# Photo courtesy of Yankee Point Marina

Tlearning about Clean Marina Programs

he Maryland Clean Marina Initiative recognizes and promotes marinas, boatyards, and yacht clubs of any size that meet legal requirements and voluntarily adopt pollution prevention practices. The DNR has certified 30 percent of Maryland’s estimated 500 marinas as Clean Marinas or Clean Marina Partners and aims to increase this number moving forward. Boaters are encouraged to patronize certified Clean Marinas and to adopt clean boating habits. For more information on the program, visit dnr. maryland.gov/boating/Pages/cleanmarina/home.aspx or email Donna Morrow at donna.morrow@maryland. gov to seek certification.

Under the leadership of the Marine Advisory Program at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS),

the Virginia Clean Marina Program (VCMP) was founded in the fall of 1999 to assist marinas in the Commonwealth with technical issues. The VCMP is designed as a voluntary program to address a broad range of issues related to the potential environmental impacts of marina operations. It was initiated as an implementation element of the Virginia Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control Program. The VCMP is a cooperative effort that brings together public and private interests through the Marina Technical and Environ-

mental Advisory committee (MTEAC). It provides information, guidance, and technical assistance to marinas, local governments, and recreational boaters in Virginia on how to minimize their impacts on water quality and coastal resources. To accomplish this task, a Marina Technical Advisory Program was established. The Marina Technical Advisory Program also focuses on working with marinas to achieve voluntary designation as a Virginia Clean Marina. Learn more at vims.edu/research/units/ centerspartners/map/vacleanmarina

# Herrington Harbour Marinas are among Maryland’s certified Clean Marinas. Photo courtesy of Herrington Harbour Marinas

a Best-Kept Secret on the Chesapeake

Discover the timeless allure of Selby Bay Yacht Club, where maritime tradition meets modern luxury. Founded in 1947 by a passionate community of boaters, this secluded haven nestled in Edgewater, MD, beckons with calm waters and panoramic views of Selby Bay.

As one of the Chesapeake Bay’s bestkept secrets, the marina offers premium

slips accommodating vessels up to 80 feet, ensuring every sailor finds their perfect berth. Ahead of the upcoming boating season, the company has spared no effort in enhancing its amenities, from

revitalized docks to an inviting clubhouse and refreshing swimming pool. Limited slips are still available. To learn more, visit selbybayyc.clubexpress.com

looking for Dock Bars?

Just because sailors can’t get to dock bars quickly doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy them. If you’re headed to an anchorage or town during the sailing season and want to explore the dock bars in the region, find a great list and map at proptalk.com/dock-bars We try to keep our list updated, but if we missed one of your Chesapeake Bay favorites, email editor@proptalk.com, and we’re happy to grow our list.

# Although the Boatyard Bar & Grill is not “on” the water, it’s only a block away, and there are many reasons to go there! Photo courtesy of Boatyard Bar & Grill

# Photo courtesy of Selby Bay Yacht Club

Maryland Shrinkwrap

Recycling Program

Once again, the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) is partnering with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Clean Marina Program and Chesapeake Materials to help keep shrinkwrap out of our landfills.

Here’s how it works:

• MTAM will sell and distribute bags that hold up to 40 pounds of clean shrinkwrap to participating marinas, boatyards, and marine service companies. MTAM can also sell to individual boaters who are living in Queen Anne’s County.

• The cost of each bag is $15, which includes the pickup/transportation and recycling of the filled bags (these are the hard costs to make this program work).

• Critical to the successful recycling of boat shrinkwrap is keeping it pure and clean

• All straps, zippers, doors, and vents must be removed in order to be made acceptable to any recycler. Dates for pick-up will be sent out to you early in the season so that you will have time to prepare and plan to get the wrap bagged in time. Only one pickup per location will be arranged.

• Only bagged wrap will be acpted by Chesapeake Materials.MTAM ran a test of putting the wrap into one of the bags and was able to fit the shrinkwrap from a 35-foot boat into one of the bags. By condensing the wrap, you may get more in the bag, but MTAM asks that you keep the weight to 40 pounds maximum. For a demo video, visit youtube.com/ watch?v=SSqL3Zs8NtA

If you have questions or need to order bags, email John Stefancik at jstefancik@mtam.org Bags will be delivered to you by March 15. You can also visit mtam.org/shrinkwrap-recyclingfor-2021 to place an order.

youtube.com/

# MTAM asks marinas to consider joining its annual effort to keep shrinkwrap out of landfills. Photo courtesy of MTAM

Looking for a slip for your boat?

TFind the perfect home for your boat in SpinSheet’s Chesapeake Bay Marinas Directory! Click on the directory listings or map for marina information including available slips, transient slips, gas, diesel, pump outs, maximum boat length, water depth, maintenance, as well as other amenities such as restaurants, dock bars, and swimming pools.

If your interested in having your marina appear in our print and online directory please email advertising@spinsheet.com or call us at 410-216-9309 and ask to speak with an advertising representative.

Installing a Clean-Out Port in your Diesel Fuel tank

By John Herlig

Picture this: you‘re headed out to the open water with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as the hum of your boat’s engine provides the soundtrack to your escape from the dock. Suddenly, the engine sputters and comes to a grinding halt. Your diesel is fouled, the filter clogged, and your weekend on the Bay becomes a weekend of misery.

When my friend Daphne discovered that her boat, a Philbrooks Fast Passage 39 named Izadora, had a dirty diesel tank, she realized that there was no way to check—much less clean—the tank’s interior. She needed a solution. She needed a clean-out port.

Before I dive into her project, a few quick words: Diesel is flammable, despite all those stories you’ve heard of how difficult it is to get it to burn. If you have any doubts at all about the safety of your undertaking or how to execute any part of a clean-out port installation, do not hesitate to engage a qualified contractor. Catching your boat on fire is not what you want to do yourself. A clean-out port is a tricky installation. Use this article as a source of ideas, and do in-depth technical and safety research before beginning. The tank needs to have been drained and flushed of its fuel and the work area well ventilated. Check with a local welding or Tractor Supply shop for argon or a similar product to help flush the tank of its volatile gasses before doing any drilling.

Neither time nor environment will be kind to your diesel fuel, and even the best constructed systems can leave you suffering. The tiniest bits of water or dirt can begin a reaction within your fuel supply that will leave you battling sludge, biological growth, and a petroleum

Next

residual called asphaltene—just like the asphalt used to pave roads. This can accumulate on a tank’s inner surfaces and cause clogged filters at best and fouled injectors at worst. A clean-out port allows access to the tank’s interior large enough for you to access, scrape, and clean the tank’s interior surfaces.

Properly locating your installation is important, as access to the port is paramount. Installation on the top of a tank may offer the best access and the lowest risk of leaks, but some tanks are situated such that a side installation may be the only option. If installed on the side of a tank, ports would ideally go into each baffled section (often three sections separated by two baffles), but these baffles will also impede your access to the tank’s interior as you create the opening.

# Daphne in DIY mode.

# Baffle.

Daphne’s first step was to inspect the tank’s interior with a borescope. It wasn’t hard to see the build-up and muck that coated the interior of her tank. She located the schematics for her vessel’s tank, and with a Sharpie drew the estimated location of the baffles onto her tank’s shell. She was installing an eight-inch Seabuilt access plate system, available for around $300. Be sure the port you purchase is the same metal as your tank, and that it has a heavy-duty gasket designed for diesel fuel.

No DIY project is without its hiccups. After drilling the opening for the port, Daphne discovered that she had inadvertently drilled right into a baffle. That little mishap turned out to be a blessing in disguise as she was eventually left with even better access to the tank’s interior. With the opening port drilled, she painstakingly ground away at the baffle until there was sufficient room for the port installation.

After successfully installing the port, it is time to clean the tank’s interior. Plastic scrapers are good for clearing away sediment and build up, and diesel or kerosene are both good solvents to aid in scrubbing tank surfaces that have been scraped. Continue scraping and scrubbing until the tank is clean and several flushes of diesel come out perfectly clean. Wipe the tank’s interior surfaces with a lint-free rag, available at any auto parts store.

Managing your diesel tank is complex. Adding biocide to your fuel helps to keep algae and other biological growth at bay. Maintaining fill ports helps to avoid water ingress into your fuel system. An easily accessible filter system helps you to monitor your fuel’s health. And the addition of an access port allows you to schedule regular inspections and cleanings.

Smooth sailing—well, motoring— awaits. You can keep your engine purring like a contented kitten by knowing, not guessing, the state of affairs inside your fuel tanks.

What Daphne learned

• A borescope or endoscope helps to assess tank condition before beginning the job.

• Don’t fully trust plans or schematics of your tank’s interior.

• Safety first! Be sure your tank is fully flushed of diesel and fumes before beginning.

• Think carefully about the port’s location. Once you start, you are committed.

• When in doubt, call in expert help.

About the Author: John Herlig sails a 1967 Rawson named Ave del Mar and teaches at Cruisers University. Find him on Instagram @sailing.ave.

Whether you race your boat or not, you are a sailor. That’s good. Because at Harken, we make products for sailors. A big part of what we love about this sport is the self-reliance it demands and finds within us. That’s why we’re sponsoring this DIY/skills-building section.

PS: If you find there’s a little too much “Y” in your DIY project, call (262) 701-5747. Jim and team will put the “us” back in DIY.

# Daphne looks into her tank.

# Access plate.

# Complete.

Offshore Rigging Specialists

Pets Onboard

By Cindy Wallach

On our first foray into cruising, we departed the Chesapeake with a 50-pound German ShepherdChow mix and spent some time sailing around the Bahamas and Cuba. When we returned to the Chesapeake, we swore to each other that we would never cruise outside the country with a dog again. Now we are cruising in the Caribbean with two dogs. Sigh.

Pets onboard are an equal mix of hard work and joyful rewards. In a life largely unplugged, nothing beats the furry companionship of a kitty snuggle on a stormy day, or the pure joy of a dog playing with hermit crabs on the beach. However, in stiff wind and a strong swell, nothing makes you regret cruising with a dog more than a salty dinghy ride to shore while everyone else is dry and cozy. Many people pass their critters on to a trusted friend when they go cruising long term, and some wait until their pet crosses the rainbow

bridge before they cast off. We are the ones who decided that family is family, furry or not, and committed to the ups and downs of cruising with our pets.

First let’s look at feeding. Most dogs and cats eat a dry kibble, and that’s thankfully available all over the Caribbean and Central America. We get different food island to island, and just mix it all together in a big bin. Wet pet food is widely available, too, but brands will vary. If you have a picky pet, it’s time to break that habit. It’s also important to have a dry place to store pet food. Big bins that have a tight seal are a good investment. Humidity and insects are the enemy.

Then, there’s water, the fresh and salty kind. Make sure your freshwater plans include enough for your pets. They need plenty to stay hydrated, and little paws need rinsing after going to the beach or for a swim. If your pup licks all of that salt off his paws, he can get a nasty tummy bug. Trust me, there’s nothing quite as awful as

sharing a small space with a dog who has intestinal issues.

Speaking of things you don’t want to share your small space with, fleas and ticks are everywhere, but flea and tick prevention medicines are not easily found outside the United States. Plan ahead and stock up on whatever medicines you and your vet choose for internal and external parasite control, and also basic flea and tick collars. Outside the US, certain countries have rules about needing to show proof of parasite control before entering, so keep records as you go along.

Once you sail outside the US, keeping track of the requirements and paperwork is like a part-time job. Cats are easier. If the cat doesn’t leave the boat, you don’t necessarily have to declare them. If you pull into a marina in a different country though, you’ll have to check the kitty in.

Here’s the thing I wish someone would have told me about cruising outside the US

# A purrfect nook aboard the sailing vessel Hahalua.

# Pippin and Choo Choo ride the dinghy.

410.280.2752

Bluewater Dreaming presented by with a pet: You have to have a rabies titer test. This is a blood draw done 30 days or more after a rabies vaccine. It proves that enough of the vaccine is in your pet’s system to be effective. It costs a couple hundred dollars, plus or minus, and takes six to eight weeks for results. There is no way for this to be expedited. If you leave the US without this test, it means you are severely limited in where you can check in with a dog (in short, only US or French islands), or that you’re stuck with an island vet doing the test, which will cost even more and take even longer to process. That rabies titer certificate is your ticket to just about anywhere. Don’t sail away without it. Once you have it, as long as your pet’s rabies vaccine never lapses, you are good to go.  Requirements are different from place to place, and they can change as new officials take over. You will hear all kinds of things through the coconut telegraph, but there is only one truly reliable source, and that’s noonsite.com. They are up to

date, and they have the contact email or WhatsApp number for whoever is in charge in each country. It’s always a good idea to email ahead a nice, formal letter stating that you are on a private, US flagged vessel with this and that pets onboard and ask what they need from you before you arrive. They like this. Sucking up goes a long way. Have your documents in order and remain respectful. You are a guest in that country. You and your pet are not entitled to anything.

Once you are cleared in, it’s not over yet. In the Caribbean there are rules and risks to be aware of. While the French islands are the easiest in that they have zero requirements for bringing in your pet, they also have strictly enforced rules about dogs on beaches. Not just off leash dogs, no dogs on the beach at all. Once you get past the Virgin Islands, you need to start being very careful about poison. The farther south you go, the more this is an issue. If you have that dog who loves to put everything in his mouth, a

sharp eye and a good leash will serve you well. Stay away from dumpsters, trash cans, and farm areas, where it can be a real issue. When you check in, ask about it, and the local authorities will give you the best information. Also be aware of certain plants and trees that are toxic to animals and humans. Local knowledge goes a long way.

That’s a big dose of reality, but don’t let it dampen your enthusiasm for cruising with a pet. We call our dogs our furry diplomats. We have made some of our closest friends because of the dogs. We are friends with vets all around the Caribbean who have given our animals top-notch care, from basic checks to surgeries. If you’re a dog owner, your pup will guard your boat loyally. Even our wee chihuahua is a deterrent, because it’s always going to be easier to rob a boat without a noise maker. If you’re really soft hearted, you might end up picking up a coconut hound, the island name for a stray. It happens, trust me. #

What onboard Pet owners Need

Most countries don’t treat their animals like family, so don’t expect fully stocked pet stores. Stock extras.

• Leashes. Salt water and sand can make your leash attachment seize up. Have spares and stow them somewhere dry.

• Collars and tags. Cats and dogs need a collar with a proper ID tag. Consider making a tag with a photo of your boat and how to get ahold of you while cruising. Collars get gross quickly; keep some spares.

• Beds. Bulky items such as pet beds are difficult to wash. Get one with a removable cover or slide an old T-shirt over it.

• Dog poop bags. Don’t be that person; pick it up. In the French Caribbean you will be told to pick it up, quite firmly. The irony is that you can’t buy poop bags in most of the Caribbean, so get a lot and then some more.

• Nail clippers and treats. These are also hard to come by. Clippers get rusty and seize up, and treats can get moldy in the tropics. Bring extras. Store it all carefully.

# The author’s husband Doug and Pippin, the latest rescue.

Crossing an Ocean on Charter

Sail the ARC as part of a crew.

By Zuzana Prochazka

Most people charter a boat for a week somewhere exotic or cultural to enjoy a vacation where they might be able to raise sails if the wind is right and they have the time to go slow. It’s a great way to spend time, but if you want to really sail and maybe cross an ocean in the process, consider chartering with a handful of specialized outfits that cover the Atlantic as part of the 150-plus boats on the annual Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC).

In November 2023 more than 900 participants from 40 countries sailed the Atlantic from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (in Spain’s Canary Islands) to St. Lucia in the Caribbean. Some of those participants sailed on chartered boats with professional crews which you can do too without needing your own boat.

Age is not a deterrent to participate. In 2023, the ages ranged from 11 months to 89 years. Most people were

45-65, but more younger faces are showing up on the docks as well. With most charter outfits, experience is usually of little concern. A good attitude (and money) will win one of the coveted spots. Prices vary as do the reputations of the companies or individual skippers, so do your homework and remember, you’ll need airfare money, too.

Some outfits are geared toward training and education and may include tutorials on weather forecasting or celestial navigation on the crossing. Others don’t emphasize much other than teamwork and standing watch. Most crossings take about three weeks, so you must bring your “A game” to thrive in a cramped environment with a passel of strangers. Also, you’ll need to dedicate four to six weeks to the adventure. Some charters require you to come early and help with the preparations, and a three-week crossing isn’t guaranteed.

You can probably find a group to your liking. Women-only boats are becoming popular. Six women and their female captain crossed in 2023 on a chartered Oceanis 473 named Persitera, in 23 days and six hours. The ages aboard ranged from 20-66 years, and they had truly bonded in their time on the water. Unlike some of the charter boats I visited in St. Lucia, this group had become friends and were happy to stick together going forward. Their experience levels varied at the start, but they were all in it for the same goal.

“What you need is desire more than experience to do this,” said their skipper, Linda. “The rest can be taught, so women should get out there and make a go of it.”

Emily of Cowes was another charter boat that sailed with six students and two crew and crossed in 17 days and 17 hours. It was the skipper’s third

# Linda Lindenau’s Peristera crew.

ARC, so he knew the ropes. The boat was a sound Slovenian-built Elan 450, but still lots of equipment broke along the way as it always does on the relentless sea. Nevertheless, they made good time and learned a lot.

You must do your homework before you sign up for a passagemaking charter. Research the captain’s credentials and experience. Ask to talk to previous charterers and have a list of detailed questions for the company. If they don’t want to answer them, move on to the next one.

Consider what kind of boat you’d feel safe and comfortable on. Many large Oysters operated as charters in 2023. It was undoubtedly a posh experience. Or maybe you’d like to test out a multihull offshore. More cats are showing up on the start line each year. Some operate as charters.

Find details on the boat and its equipment because sparse boats make meager homes for three weeks on end. If you’re used to a level of comfort, you may be unpleasantly surprised by a pipe berth on a boat with no watermaker and severe rationing. Basically, give yourself every chance of success so you can learn much and enjoy your time on the water.

TMake yourself a worthy candidate, too. Lead with your skills like mechanical or cooking. Don’t get stuck in one mode aboard, but be sure to highlight your strengths because the best boats are in high demand.

The ARC has run for 38 consecutive years which means more than 35,000 people have sailed the 2700-mile passage.

Some people come for the sociable community, others for the ARC’s preparation guidance, and still others for the experience of looking out for the better part of three weeks and seeing nothing but water and sails. If that’s you, check out the website at worldcruising.com and inquire how to participate. #

# The dock scene at the ARC.

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.

2024 ESSa Bridge announced

At its annual Change of Watch dinner, held at the Cambridge Yacht Club January 20, Eastern Shore Sailing Association (ESSA) announced the following slate of officers for the bridge: commodore Elizabeth Principe, vice commodore Curtis Weist, secretary George Breig, treasurer Mike Stewart, Choptank fleet captain George Breig, and Tangier fleet captain Barry Hall.

ESSA held its first skipper meeting of the new season for the Choptank and Tangier fleets on February 22. The meeting was held at the Cambridge Yacht Club where attendees were invited for dinner.

ESSA will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year! Several events will be held at the Choptank and Tangier fleet locations to commemorate the founding of the Eastern Shore’s premier sailing association. As with any successful organization, ESSA’s notable progress is due to the efforts of many dedicated individuals. It has indeed been fortunate that so many members have contributed their time and energy to creating a club that enhances the leisure time of sailing enthusiasts all over the Eastern Shore. Learn more about the club at essasailing.org

# Liz Principe, ESSA commodore.

Farewell to a JSO Founder

By Nancie Merritt

Jeanneau Sailboat Owners (JSO) members were saddened to learn that one of their founders, Dennis Stromberg, age 78, passed away recently. Dennis was adventurous in spirit and in action. He loved travel, was a car enthusiast, skier, passionate sailor, and reader with an extraordinary ability to recall detail. Naturally outgoing, he easily formed and retained many long-term friendships throughout his life. Erik Stromberg, Dennis’s son and project manager of Jeanneau sailboats at that time (now a Jeanneau VP), encouraged his father to build a group of owners as competitor sailboat manufacturers had done.

So, when participants at an annual rendezvous held by Bay Yachts several years ago met to discuss having more get togethers throughout the summer season

instead of just once per year, Dennis was the first to raise his hand. Dennis, along with additional volunteers Ralph Marlett and Bill van der Haven, got together and the concept of JSO was formulated. Over the course of a few weeks, the three hashed out a plan including how to handle finances, schedules for meetings, and all manner of issues regarding setting up a wholly new organization. Once the concept became a well thought out plan, it was put out to a number of Jeanneau owners contacted through Bay Yachts. It turned out that the feedback was positive, and Jeanneau Sailboat Owners was born. Which brings us to the organization of today. JSO holds an annual meeting in April where members line up to volunteer as hosts for the monthly raftups or other types of gatherings. The monthly get togethers are normally held on the third

Marine Weather

# Dennis Stromberg

weekend of each month. Members also contact one another directly for impromptu raft-ups for other times on the water.

If you are new to JSO and would like to join us, please contact Paul and Karen Novak at svopiebea@gmail.com. We welcome new members! We are a loosely formed group of Jeanneau owners who enjoy boating and socializing together. See our website at groups.io/g/ JSOChesapeakeBay

Chesapeake Bay

Marine weather 101-chesapeake bay will teach you how to interpret weather maps, prepare a wind & wave forecast, and recognize the potential for thunderstorms on the Bay. You will also learn where to find marine weather forecasts and how to use Doppler Weather radar to monitor thunderstorms. These skills will improve your trip planning and reduce the likelihood that you will be exposed to uncomfortable or hazardous weather conditions. register today and get ready for the 2024 season. Presented by:

Photo

Introduction to Sea Kayaking

Chesapeake Paddlers Association, an all-volunteer nonprofit organization, is bringing its annual SK101Introduction to Sea Kayaking to Kent Island on Saturday, April 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cult Classic Brewery on Kent Island. This always popular event highlights kayaking safety as it guides participants through everything from the purchase of their first true sea kayak to participation in kayak adventures throughout the Chesapeake Bay region. This is the perfect opportunity for a beginner kayaker to launch a voyage toward more advanced skills and equipment and a lifetime of enjoyment of the sport.

VA

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

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

Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake Spring Planning

As our new boating club gains momentum, we are beginning to plan our first official events for 2024. A potluck/BYOB “Meet & Greet” is planned for April 8, and a “Get R Done” raftup is planned for May 4-5. Details will be available next month and will be posted to members on our Facebook page. Plans for a

June Cruise and other activities are in the works.

For those not familiar, Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake is limited to 50 members with a love of boating (sailing in particular.) We are a low-stress social and on-the-water club with activities in the Chesapeake Bay region and beyond. As a no-fee

club, we are looking for prospective members who are kind-spirited with a love of the water. Members will be able to participate, share experiences, and contribute as their schedule and preferences allow. Here’s what some new and prospective members are saying: “A refreshing change to the more impersonal larger scale clubs available,” and “All of the aspects you outline as reasons for starting a new boating club sound appealing— socializing, learning, Bay adventures, laid back... all great;,” and “As opportunities present, I might like to learn more about boating beyond the Bay from more experienced sailors.”

If you are interested in joining a boating club that is tailored to you, please send a brief description of your experience, contact information, and expectations to CompassBoatingClub@yahoo.com. We look forward to hearing from you! You can also visit our Facebook page, Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake.

# CBCC seeks prospective members who are kind-spirited with a love of the water.

# Photo courtesy of Chesapeake Paddlers Association Facebook page

“Start Sailing Now” in Southern Maryland

By Tim Flaherty

“S

tart Sailing Now” is the theme for the SpinSheet Crew Party in Solomons, MD, on Sunday, March 10, from 4 to 6 p.m. when Southern Maryland Sailing Association (SMSA) opens its doors to anyone interested in sailing.

This event is for new sailors, wannabe sailors, experienced sailors, boat owners and skippers, non-boat owners, prospective race committee members, and anyone who wants to hang around sailors! Prospective crew can mingle with skippers who are looking for racing crew and cruising buddies. Boat owners can find crew and meet other skippers to plan future adventures and swap tales.

For newbies, the emphasis will be on teaching sailing, and SMSA will have representatives from all club programs, including Junior Sailing, Kids Camp, and Adult Learn to Sail, on-hand to answer questions. All attendees can enjoy free

food and reasonably priced beverages and can check out boats in the yard and at the SMSA dock. In addition, SpinSheet will lead a Q&A session to tie up any loose-end questions you may have about how to get started sailing, even if you don’t own a boat. And please come by even if you just want to mingle and meet other people and talk about sailing! Be sure to also register online with the Spinsheet Crew Finder to maximize your sailing experience!

SMSA is located on Solomons Island, just opposite the boardwalk gazebo at 14490 S. Solomons Island Road. If you’ve never been to Solomons, come check out one of America’s best harbors and sailing venues, and our town full of restaurants, marinas, and attractions.

Find out more about SMSA at smsa.com.

# The 2023 crew party at SMSA.

# Hunter Sailing Association-1 members Joann Anderika and Samar Caverly and their spouses headed down the ICW this winter and met up in Florida.

# Eastern Shore Sailing Association commodore Liz Principe, vice commodore Curtis Weist, treasurer Mike Stewart, and Tangier Fleet Captain Barry Hall.

# Chesapeake Shorthanded Sailing Society (CHESSS) has monthly winter meetings, sometimes with speakers. To learn more, visit chesss.clubexpress.com

# Back Creek Yacht Club members Richard and Michelle Sanger celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at a BCYC snowbirds happy hour in Stuart, FL, this winter.

# Photo by Debby Shields

Boater Certification Classes

This spring America’s Boating Club Wilmington (ABCW) offers the Delaware Boater Certification Class in partnership with the New Castle Sailing Club. Two courses of three sessions each will be held on Saturday afternoons from 1 to 4 p.m. The first course began February 24, and the second course will begin May 4 and continue for the next two Saturdays.

The boater certification course introduces boaters to the subjects they need to operate their boats safely and in compliance with relevant laws. Topics include a review of required safety equipment, nautical rules of the road, aids to navigation, anchoring, docking, emergencies, weather, and more.

For 2024, ABCW has entered a new partnership with the New Castle Sailing Club which provides sailboats on the Delaware River for their members, instruction, and camaraderie throughout the year. Classes will be held at the

clubhouse at 614 South Street, New Castle, DE. Though New Castle Sailing Club teaches sailing and boat handling, the partnership with ABCW for the boater certification will offer its members a broader education for responsible boat handling and risk avoidance. It also creates a greater awareness of the value of further education in boating skills.

ABCW has offered boater education for over 80 years as the Wilmington Power Squadron. The Delaware Boater certification course meets the standards of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the US Coast Guard. As such, Delaware certification is recognized in all states requiring certification. A proctored

multiple-choice exam is given at the third session. Classes are open to the public at a cost of $25. For more information, contact the class administrator at matkinsonseo@ google.com or telephone (302) 722-5201.

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. For more information about the New Castle Sailing Club, visit newcastlesailingclub.org or contact them at memberNCSC@gmail.com.

Follow us on

# New Castle Sailing Club’s summer 2023 racing series.

Members’ annual Symposium

It’s early February, so the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club (CBTSC) is in its quiet time, except for the monthly Happy Hours via Zoom. The Annual Planning Meeting was held on February 10, and we will have many exciting events lined up for the sailing season. Check cbtsc.org for details. Now that March is here, and since Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow, we should have an early spring and get a head start on getting back to the water.

Our next event, for members only, is the Annual Symposium on April 6 at the Eastport Yacht Club. Members should register for this well-attended event via the website. Sign up before all the seats are taken! We are also planning a Ladies Luncheon this month, but the date and location are yet to be determined.

Busy Start to 2024

The Hunter Sailing Association Station-1 (HSA-1) is off to a busy start with some of our member boats sailing south this winter. Stargazer (Greg Guthman) is wintering in St. Augustine, FL, and Nanny Cay (Chuck and Joann Anderika) and My Pleasure (Bob and Samar Caverly) headed down the ICW and are in Florida. My Pleasure is waiting for a weather window prior to sailing over to the Bahamas. In January they met up in Ft. Pierce, FL, where they shared a meal, stories, and libations.

Our first HSA-1 get-together of the year was a virtual happy hour and talk. HSA-1’s own Jerry Latell (Wanderer) and partner of Evolution Sails gave a presentation “Downwind Sailing for the Rest of Us” to approximately 20 member boats on February 1. Our Winter Lunch has been organized by vice commodore Pete Harsh (Treasure Hunter) and was held this year at Pirates Cove Restaurant in Galesville, MD, on February 24.

If you have a Hunter in the mid-Chesapeake Bay and are not a member, please check out our club at hsa1.org or email commodore@hsa1.org to learn more about the benefits of membership, which includes access to all club cruises and events and a direct connection to a network of Chesapeake Bay Hunter owners. We hope you will join us!

# Jerry Latell.

# 2024 spring planning meeting. Photo by Amelia Whitman

Let’s talk Nautical! Come experience a day of boater education for power and sail boaters. Be ye highly experienced, or be ye a novice, you will find sessions to entice your interests. This full day is held at Anne Arundel Community College in Arnold, MD, and is composed of five sessions with six topics to choose from each session. Your attendance fee includes a continental breakfast and full lunch. There will be door prizes and a silent auction as well as representatives of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and other local vendors. With sessions on knots, navigation, and night cruising; sessions of general interest like Skipjacks, Chesapeake Lighthouses, and history of the Bay as well as healthminded topics like Qi Chong, fit for sailing, handling emergencies, and personal safety… all this in addition to topics like maritime law, anchoring

and rafting, rules of the road, rigging, boat and engine care.

This is a day to get you back in boating mode while enjoying a day of camaraderie with like-minded boaters. The day is organized by the sailing club

Singles on Sailboats and is open to all: non-members, non-singles… anyone interested in learning more or honing their skills. For a full list of class sessions and to register visit singlesonsailboats.org and look for Spring Training.

# Ian Sanderson teaching sail trim with model Not To Be Sailed. Photo by John Parsons

2023 CByRa High Point Winners

The Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association (CBYRA) announced its High Point standings for 2023 to recognize excellence among its members racing on the Chesapeake.

Last month we ran the Cruising One Design results. Here are the standings for PHRF, CRCA, and Multihull classes by region as reported by CBYRA. If a class

or region is missing, there were insufficient qualifiers for an award in 2023 or the class had not yet reported its tallies or paid its dues.

Among the special awards given for last year’s performance are the following: David and Jacki Meiser won the LaBrot Trophy. David Conlon on Victorine won the Lady Anne Arundel Award for hav-

ing the highest High Point score residing in Anne Arundel County, and Pat Seidel won the Decker Magothy Memorial Trophy.

Congratulations to all 2023 CBYRA High Point qualifiers and winners! We look forward to following your on-thewater scores in 2024. Learn more at cbyra.org

# Shown here at the inaugural FBYC Rescue Regatta, Mayo Tabb’s Excitation placed first in PHRF A for Region 4N for 2023 High Point. Photo by Paul Almany

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TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

2023 CByRa High Point Standings

Region 1

PHRF A

1. Split Decision, Jordan Tacchetti

PHRF B

1. Witch’s Flower, Michael Johns

2. Still A Gorilla, Tom Calvert

3. Liquid Limit II, David Kozera

Region 2

PHRF A

1. Oasis, David Copley

PHRF B

1. Hell Below, Patrick Seidel

Region 3 aW

PHRF A1

1. Victorine, David Conlon

Region 3 SE

PHRF A

1. One Trick Pony, David and Jacki Meiser

Region 4N

PHRF A

1. Excitation, Mayo Tabb

2. Nanuq, Glenn Doncaster

3. Raven, Gary Hooper

PHRF B

1. Mad Hatter, Bob Fleck

2. Shenanigan, Miles Booth

3. Goin, Dennis Hannick

Region 4S

PHRF A

1. Joy Ride, Doug Bird

2. Voo Doo II, Leroi Lisenden

3. Virginia H III, Andy Armstrong

PHRF B

1. Hornet, Karen Roberts

PHRF C

1. Roundabout, Alan Bomar

PHRF N

1. Special K, Al Brazzi

continued on page 76

# Steven Toole on Hot Pepper won Boat of the Year for CRCA Racer. Photo by Will Keyworth

# David Conlon’s Victorine topped PHRF A1 for Region 3 AW and won the Lady Anne Arundel Award. Photo by Will Keyworth

# Bob Fleck’s Mad Hatter topped PHRF B for Region 4N. Photo by Paul Almany

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

2023 CByRa High Point Standings

CRCa annapolis Series

CRCA Cruiser

1. AnnaMae, Rob Michaelson

2. Legacy, Philip Maiese

3. Jahazi, David Dodson

CRCA Racer

1. Hot Pepper, Steven Toole

2. In the Red, Antoinette Wilkins

3. Wild Fire, Heidi and Dan Bay

CRCa North of the Bridge Series

CRCA Cruiser

1. AnnaMae, Rob Michaelson

2. Etoile, Barbie and Marcel Klik

3. Kaimana, Lee and Jon Budar-Danoff

CRCA Racer

1. Incommunicado, Ed Tracey and Tim Polk

2. In the Red, Antoinette Wilkins

Oasis, David Copley

Southern Maryland

1. Barba Roja, Steven Birchfield

CRCa Boat of the year

CRCA Cruiser

1. AnnaMae, Rob Michaelson

CRCA Racer

1. Hot Pepper

Chesapeake Multihull association (CMa)

1. Itinerant, Larry Forgy

2. DualForce, Drew Conboy

3. Triple Threat, Tim Lyons

CMA Elapsed Time

1. Triple Threat, Tim Lyons

2. Itinerant, Larry Forgy

3. Wild Card, Tim Layne

CMA Long Distance

1. Itinerant, Larry Forgy

2. DualForce, Drew Conboy

3. Gemini, Jere Glover

# Tim Lyons’s Triple Threat, shown here at the BCYA Harbor Cup, took first place for 2023 for CMA Elapsed Time. Photo by Will Keyworth

# Jordan Tacchetti’s Split Decision took top High Point honors in PHRF A Region 1. Photo by Will Keyworth

Photo by Wilbur Keyworth

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

annapolis J/105 Fleet takes on Down the Bay Race Challenge

J/105 Fleet 3, based in Annapolis, is the largest in the world with 35 boats and one of the most competitive in town. It is an extremely deep and talented class loaded with veteran sailors who are not afraid to take on new challenges. Fleet 3 leadership keeps things interesting by switching up the season schedule from time to time.

This year, J/105 Fleet 3 will add the 74th edition of the Down the Bay Race for the Virginia Cruising Cup to the calendar. Fleet 3 schedule coordinator David Scheidt said a large contingent of owners liked the idea of doing the 120-nautical mile overnight race, which starts May 24 and is hosted by Hampton Yacht Club (HYC) with support from Storm Trysail Club (STC).

“Down the Bay is a Chesapeake Bay classic, and we had a very solid representation of owners that wanted to do it. They’re always willing to try something new and different,” said Scheidt, who has enjoyed plenty of success as skipper of Smoke ‘n Oakum

Scheidt expects 10 to 12 J/105s to enter the Down the Bay Race and said those owners are committed to staying in Hampton to do Southern Bay Race Week the following weekend. Both events will count toward the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association (CBYRA)

High Point standings for the J/105 class.

This will be the 22nd Down the Bay Race for Scheidt, who has previously competed as crew member aboard a variety of boats. He likened the run from Annapolis to Hampton to a 5K as opposed to a marathon such as the Annapolis-Newport Race.

“I like that you get to sail in a different part of the Chesapeake Bay and conditions change when you get south of Point Lookout,” Scheidt said. “It’s a challenging race that requires you to think more strategically than a typical point-to-point race.”

The Virginia Cruising Cup Race was held annually from 1934 through 1999 except during the World War II years (1942-45) and built a sterling reputation among sailors all over the Chesapeake Bay. Known to Lower Bay sailors as “Down the Bay” and to Upper Bay sailors as “The Hampton Race,” the event drew 130 to 150 boats at its peak.

Following a 10-year hiatus, the event was revived in 2009 when HYC joined with STC Chesapeake Station to hold it earlier on Memorial Day weekend to allow boats to participate in Southern Bay Race Week. Down the Bay has seen increased participation every year since, with organizers encouraged that

last year’s race attracted 31 boats in six classes.

Boats can compete under either the PHRF or ORC rating rules. Starts are also being offered for the Chesapeake Shorthanded Sailing Society (CHESSS) and Chesapeake Multihull Association (CMA) along with double-handed entries.

Any one-design class that can muster at least five entries will get its own separate start. This year’s inclusion of J/105 Fleet 3 marks the first one-design start in Down the Bay since 2010 when the J/35 class participated. Skipper and HYC member Maury Niebur and his team aboard Bump in the Night won a gybing duel with Maggie to capture class honors by a mere 38 seconds. That year Scheidt was aboard Maggie as crew for his father and namesake.

HYC presents three important perpetual trophies for this race. The Robert M. Ravin Memorial Trophy is awarded to the monohull that is first to finish. The HYC Special Award is presented to the monohull racing under ORC that posts the fastest corrected time. Lastly, the Virginia Cruising Cup goes to the monohull racing under PHRF that posts the fastest corrected time.

A relatively new and popular element of the event is the Welcome Party hosted by STC at Severn Sailing Association on Thursday evening. As always, HYC will conduct a first-class awards ceremony and dinner on Saturday evening. HYC provides all boats with free dockage for two nights, and beer.

David McConaughy of HYC will serve as event chairman for the eighth time in 2024. McConaughy captured class honors in Down the Bay twice aboard his J/30 USA90. He has crewed for friends in another eight editions of the race.

McConaughy described Down the Bay Race as a “proper distance race that requires plenty of advanced logistics and setting up watches.”

He believes the true challenge of this 120-nautical mile passage

# The J/105 fleet in Annapolis on a typical Wednesday Night Race start... hopefully a dozen will compete in the Down the Bay Race and Southern Bay Race Week. Photo by Will Keyworth

TASTE THE GOOD LIFE

annapolis J/105 Fleet takes on Down the Bay Race Challenge continued

centers around the fact that each section of the Chesapeake Bay has its own unique identity with variable wind and current issues.

Skippers, tacticians, and navigators must reassess conditions at various points in the race and also consider what will happen when their boat passes the Potomac River and the York River or enters Hampton Roads. Most participants enjoy the challenge of night racing, and McConaughy believes firmly that Down the Bay is won between sunset and sunrise.

Down the Bay starts near Thomas Point Light off Annapolis and takes the fleet past such landmarks of the Chesapeake Bay as Cove Point, Cedar Point, Point no Point, Point Lookout, Smith Point Light, Windmill Point, Stingray Point, Wolf Trap Light, and Thimble Shoals before finishing at Old Point Comfort off Hampton.

Irie, a TP52 skippered by Greg Alden, smashed the Down the Bay Race elapsed-time record in 2013 by finishing in seven hours, two minutes, and 32 seconds. That was more than four hours faster than the previous mark established way back in 1974 by Running Tide, a Sparkman & Stephens 60-footer owned by Al Van Metre.

Conditions were ideal for a record run with winds ranging from 20-25 knots out of the northwest. Irie, which

Zwas able to sail downwind with an asymmetrical spinnaker or reach using an oversized jib, recorded an average speed of 17-plus knots. Afterward, Alden called it “the ride of a lifetime, an epic trip, and the most fun I’ve ever had on a sailboat.”

To register for Down the Bay, visit the event’s yachtscoring.com page. For more about the event, contact David McConaughy at (757) 870-4475 or dfmcconaughy@gmail.com.

Free two-Day Junior Sailing Roundtable Open to all

im Sailing and the Junior Sailing Association of Long Island Sound (JSA of LIS) announce a partnership to host a special two-day Mid-Atlantic Regional Roundtable at Stamford Yacht Club in Stamford, CT, March 8-9.

With the JSA of LIS celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year, the ongoing partnership between Zim Sailing and Regional Sailing Associations provides a perfect opportunity to bring the popular collaboration event to the Mid-Atlantic Region.

The Mid-Atlantic Regional Roundtable will be a special two-day event with a “Competitive Sailing”

focus on Friday and a “Recreational/ Learn to Sail” focus on Saturday. Attendees from all over the tri-state area will share, learn, and collaborate on ways to improve sailing activities within their region.

Focused topics within the “Competitive” and “Recreational/Learn to Sail” daily sessions will be published on Zim’s Regional Roundtable webpage. Participants are welcome to attend one or both days of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Roundtable but are advised that there are two separate registration forms for the “Competitive” and “Recreational/ Learn to Sail” sessions.

Registration for the Zim Sailing Regional Roundtables will be free and includes a light breakfast, free lunch compliments of Gowrie Group - Risk Strategies, and attendee swag bag. Find the complete Zim Sailing Regional Roundtables updated schedules, registration links, and resources at zimsailing.com/regional-rountables If an individual, club, or regional sailing association is interested in hosting a Zim Regional Roundtable, please reach out to Josh Toso, director of marketing for Zim Sailing/Starting Line Sailing, at josh@startinglinesailing.com

# The PHRF A class starting in the 120-mile Down the Bay Race 2023. Photo by SpinSheet

THE GOOD LIFE

New Executive Director for the Hospice Cup

Last month Hospice Cup named Meredith Glacken to its leadership as the organization’s new executive director. Glacken succeeds Christine Lasser, who has served in the post since 2020.

M“I’m delighted to join Hospice Cup and so honored to advance its important mission,” says Glacken. “The hospice care programs that the cup supports offer compassion, dignity, and a dedication to quality of life for those in our community facing the challenges of serious illness and end of life… As a sailor, I’m also excited to support this beloved annual race.”

Glacken joins Hospice Cup from Foresight Messaging, a marketing and communications outfit she founded in 2022 and still runs as the firm’s principal. She also serves on the boards of the Chesapeake Bay Alberg 30 OneDesign Association and the Michael H. Tillotson Foundation.

Hospice Cup is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to raise awareness and funds for hospice

care in our region. For more than 40 years, Hospice Cup has supported local care programs in our region, including Montgomery Hospice, Talbot Hospice, Capital Caring Kids, and the Luminis Health Gilchrist Lifecare Institute at Anne Arundel Medical Center. For more information, visit hospicecup.org

New life and New Rooms! the Screwpile Regatta 2024

uch to the dismay of Screwpile Lighthouse Challenge fans, in October of 2022, the new ownership group of Solomons Inn Resort & Marina in Solomons (formerly known as the Holiday Inn) closed its doors with plans to convert the 350-room hotel into an assisted living facility. For 30 years the Holiday Inn had been the regatta’s go-to residence for countless Screwpile crews.

As one long-time Holiday Inn Manager put it, “They would sometimes ‘stuff’ six crewmembers into those rooms.”

With the hotel’s closure, out-of-town crews had to scramble in 2023 to find other accommodations. With a lack of suitable and affordable housing options, many of those crews opted to stay home. Screwpile participation had been on an upward trajectory after Covid until the shortage of crew accommodations this past year. In fact, of 37 boats that ultimately raced last year at Screwpile, only nine traveled to Solomons from out of town.

Last fall, the Screwpile regatta organizing committee learned that a zoning decision by the Calvert County Commissioners had resulted in rejection of a plan

to convert the hotel into a commercial assisted living facility. The outcome is a plan to return to a full-service hotel with pool, restaurant, and bar, along with an extended stay hotel component.

Hotel management hopes to have 75 renovated rooms available for Screwpile crews by late July 2024. It will give new life to a great regatta. With

the regatta’s headquarters and parties at Safe Harbor Zahnisers Marina in Solomons and discounted rooms once again available at Solomons Inn Resort & Marina (ex-Holiday Inn), the Screwpile Lighthouse Challenge Regatta is scheduled for the three-day weekend of July 19-21. Learn more at screwpile.com. See you there!

# Mark and Robin Witte’s Solomons-based Rakali team at the 2023 Screwpile Regatta.

Photo by Will Keyworth

# Meredith Glacken, the Hospice Cup’s new executive director, ready to set the kite on the Alberg 30 Constance. Photo by Sam Greenfield/ Outsideimages.com

Small Boat Scene let’s Get this Race Rolling

By Kim Couranz

Starting well is hard. The lure of the “perfect start” is beguiling. Don’t you just want to magically start at the favored end of the line and jump out to a two-boat length lead every single race? I hate to break it to you, but it’s not gonna happen, at least not every race.

Take a deep breath. It’s going to be okay! The process of learning how to start well and improving your skills can be frustrating and never ending. But with some work and focus, you can accomplish starts that are good enough to get you going where you need to go: Off the line, at full speed, heading in the direction you want to go with fairly clean air. Here are three areas where you can practice your skills to help you achieve solid starts.

Time and distance to the line. Imagine a starting line. You’re the only boat around. You get to start exactly when you want and going as fast as you want. (You’re not allowed to be OCS!) Of course, you’ll choose to have your

bow just on the not-OCS side of the line and also going full speed right when the gun goes off. So, how can you achieve that in the real world? Knowing how long, both in time and distance, it takes you to accelerate to full speed is a critical element. When you know this information, you can back things up—maybe it takes eight seconds to accelerate to full speed, and you cover a boatlength and a half in the process. Ideally you’d be ready for your start, hanging a boatlength back from the line, and when you get to eight seconds to go in the countdown, you sheet in and go.

Of course, it’s never that simple in practice. The boats around you may linger too close to the line. Or there may be adverse current, so you need to hang closer to the line. Practicing that acceleration and timing gives you the tools you need. It’s great if you can get out from time to time for practice with a coach who can set up a short starting line, with the coach serving as the

signal boat end. The coach gives you a countdown, and your goal is to be on the line, full speed, at “go”—and they can help you refine your approach. Another important drill you can do in this setup is the hand/whistle drill: As you approach the line, skipper (and crew; and you don’t have to have the same “answer”) raises their hand when they think their bow is on the line. The coach whistles when their bow is actually on the line. Sometimes hands are raised and whistles are blown simultaneously… and sometimes they’re not, providing great learning opportunities.

Acceleration. Here’s where you get to focus on boathandling and being cognizant of the conditions you’re sailing in. The process for getting a boat up to speed differs greatly from class to class. Keelboats can require a lot of lead time (and distance) getting rolling before heading up to close-hauled, while some dinghies just need a quick sheet in and hike flat. Once you get acceler-

# Practicing acceleration and timing gives you the tools you need for improved starts. Photo by Photo by Art Petrosemolo/nauticalphotography.us

ating in a happy eight to 10 knots with no waves or current, spice it up a bit by practicing accelerating when things are more complex. What’s the tradeoff for your boat when it gets windy— does the increased wind give you more “juice” to work with, or does the wind resistance from flogging sails hold you off the line? Things often slow down when the wind eases off, too.

Positioning. This is where you get to put your time and distance work into practice as you head toward the line on final approach. If you’re in a suboptimal position, it’s hard to accelerate as you’re often in dirty air. Consider where you’re going to end up as you either tack in or approach from leeward to get into the lineup of boats luffing on starboard tack. Be sure the result of your approach

# Imagining your ideal place in the start line is good practice, however differently your boat’s position may be in real life. Photo by Art Petrosemolo/nauticalphotography.us

will be with your bow in clean air, so that you end up not underneath other boats, struggling to get forward enough to get your bow out. Getting into a solid position at the right point in the final 30 seconds really lets you use your acceleration and speed when you need it most— and lets you better control your time and distance work.

Now for the really hard stuff—combining your time and distance savvy with acceleration practice and doing all that in a good position on the line. It’s not easy, but getting off the line at least reasonably well gives you the opportunity to succeed in the rest of the race. #

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.

Deciphering the lingo of Sailboat Racing

We make our sport harder to understand than it should be. The combination of actual technical terms and slang can be an imposing barrier to those trying to get into sailboat racing. All too often I forget and start casually slinging around terms that make my editors go “huh?” So, we thought we would start Racer’s Edge 2024 off with a primer on frequently used terms from the race course.

SpinSheet staff and readers have come up with their favorites. Here, written in totally random order (and alphabetized by my friendly editor) are the beginnings of a basic glossary.

Banging the Corner

If you immediately head all the way out to the lay line right from the start of the leg, you are “banging the corner.” Remember, once you are on the lay line, you are out of options. You can’t tack or gybe without sailing extra distance and you can no longer take advantage of any shift in the wind direction. Generally speaking, classical tactical maxims dictate staying out of the corners (away from the lay lines) until late in the leg (see lay line).

Consolidate

This refers to the age-old tactical missive “cross them when you can.” If you are looking good and are ahead of a bunch of your competition, go ahead and tack or gybe and physically cross and position yourself in front of them. “Consolidation” like this will also take you back towards the middle of the course and away from those nasty lay lines.

Duck

Ducking refers to the act of passing behind, instead of trying to go in front of a right of way (starboard tack) boat. Upwind this means bearing off to go behind. Downwind this means heading up. In either case it is important to remember that ducking is not a bad thing. It simply means you are even and want to continue going in the direction

By David Flynn, Quantum Sails

you are headed. When you tack or gybe and come back together, you will have the right of way. Usually it pays to have “last starboard.” That’s the one that will determine who gets to be ahead or behind at the mark.

Headers and lifts

Righties and Lefties are also either a “header” or a “lift” depending on what tack we are on. A lift takes us more directly towards our upwind goal, a header farther away. Downwind this is reversed. Headers take us closer to our downward goal and lifts take us farther away. Let’s say we are back sailing upwind on port tack at our 90-degree compass heading. We get a lefty, and we are “lifted” to the point where we can sail an 80-degree heading. A righty comes through, and we can sail no higher than a 100-degree heading. We are headed. The simple rule to keep this all straight is “port higher header.” If the compass numbers that we can sail hard on the wind are getting bigger, we are headed. Smaller, and we are lifted.

Of course, this is reversed on starboard tack where upwind higher numbers are good (lifts) and smaller numbers are bad (headers). And don’t forget that downwind we want headers!

late Main Gybe

A technique for gybing a boat using an asymmetrical spinnaker where the main is held on the wrong (old leeward) side while the spinnaker is brought around to the new side first. This allows the spinnaker to fill because there is no mainsail in the way creating a wind shadow. As soon as the spinnaker fills, the mainsail is released and allowed to come over to new side. This works only in light to moderate conditions when the main boom can be held. In windier conditions you want to do a “priority main gybe,” where the mainsail comes across normally just as the boat passes dead downwind. If it is windy, you just want to get the mainsail across under control and not have it influence steering the boat.

# Photos by Zoe Norbom/Ocean Mountain Media

Racer’s Edge

lay line

If you are sailing windward/leeward races which go straight upwind and then straight downwind, the most common format in sailboat racing, lay lines are your boundaries. Upwind, it is the close-hauled course that allows you to make (“fetch”) the upwind mark. There is a starboardtack and a port-tack lay line. Sailing farther to the right or left of these imaginary lines means you are sailing extra distance. Since in modern boats we also tack (gybe actually) downwind, there are also port and starboard lay lines. “Short” the lay line and you will have to sail too deep and slow to get to the mark. This is slow and painful. Go too far before gybing and you will find yourself sailing much higher than you need to or would like. Fast but extra distance. Ideally, upwind or down, the lay line allows you to sail the perfect optimal VMG course to the mark.

lee Bow

A move which occurs when sailing upwind when one boat tacks just ahead and to leeward of another boat sailing upwind. If executed properly and the boats are close enough, the bad air coming off the boat ahead and to leeward will force the weather boat to tack because they can no longer sail optimum VMG upwind. Of course, you must get it right. Tack too close and the weather boat feels as if they have to alter course to avoid you, making it a foul. Not far enough forward after the tack is complete and there will be no room to build speed, and the weather boat may just sail right over (“roll”) you. The rule of thumb for a proper lee bow is that you

need to be able to easily cross the other upwind boat in order to pull it off. A lee bow tack is used when you want to force the other boat to go the other way. A classic tactic when on or near a lay line.

Pressure

We used to simply call it wind velocity. But pressure is so much sexier. I think, as with so many of our other terms, it may have had its origins among our Kiwi brethren. More pressure means more wind, and yes, it does pressure (load up) sails. It is visible on the water. Darker streaks usually mean more pressure. It is the central focus of much onboard dialogue. “Pressure looks better on the right side of the course.” Or moment to moment as we try to squeeze the most out of the boat and help the trimmers anticipate. “More pressure in 10… 3, 2, 1; it is on us now.” Calling out increases or decreases is often a full-time job of one crew member. There are lots of associated phrases like “puff on” to indicate a big increase in wind velocity.

Righties and lefties

We not only obsess about how much wind there is but also its constantly changing direction. Wind direction is monitored constantly via compass headings, fancy electronics that actually calculate where on the compass the wind is coming from, or from simple observation of what is happening to the headings of other boats which give clues to the changes in direction on the course in front of us. Much time is spent before a race to determine compass headings upwind on port and

starboard tack. Median headings become the baseline. If we are on port sailing along at a heading of 90, but a shift in the wind makes it impossible and the best we can do is sail 100 degrees, that is a right shift or a “righty.” Conversely if we can now sail a compass heading that is less than 90 degrees, that is a left shift or a “lefty.”

Sambuca

There is lots of great slang when it comes to maneuvers. A “sambuca” is a gybe set where the spinnaker is hoisted as the boat is gybed around the weather mark. On boats using asymmetrical spinnakers (the vast majority these days) the sail is set up and launched on the port side. This means it has to get pulled all the way around to the starboard side of the boat during the hoist, while the boat is gybing. This takes some practice! But if you want to get immediately onto port tack, it is a trick you have to have in your bag.

VMG

Velocity made good either straight upwind or downwind. This has nothing to do with velocity made good used in navigation towards a waypoint or mark. Our VMG is all relative to getting upwind or downwind as fast as possible. It is usually measured as a percentage of our forward boat speed. Upwind if we try to sail too close to the wind (often referred to as “pinching”), we are aiming more upwind but losing speed as a result. If we sail at too wide an angle (“footing”), we will be fast but not going upwind very effectively. As always in making a sailboat go, it is striking the right balance between pinching and footing for a given condition that generates the best VMG and our best overall upwind performance. Downwind trying to sail too directly towards your objective will leave you low and slow. Too high an angle and you will be fast but not making great progress downwind. Once again, the game of optimizing VMG is about finding the balance.

We have lots of others. Clearly there is a reason why our sport is difficult to learn! Keep those cards and letters coming, and we will continue to help shed some light on the peculiar lingo of sailboat racing.

BR ok ERAGE &

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

SECTIONS

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

Phone: 240.675.4844, Email: Caleb@YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com

reputation for integrity and service! Our experienced team of brokers is committed to serving both buyers and sellers, ensuring fair practices and complete satisfaction with every deal. Whether sail or power, we’ll help you find the perfect fit! 410.639.2777 info@sjyachts.com www.sjyachts.com

Yacht Brokers of Annapolis

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

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

B o AT SHARING

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

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

SAIL

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

1976 Catalina 30 Recently rebuilt Atomic 4, newer roller furler, barrier coated, fin keel. Some upgrades. Wheel steering. On the hard since 2020. Likes a little TLC. $10,000 Call 717.432.2231, leave message please.

1991 Hunter Vision 32 Good condition. YANMAR 28Hp diesel. Full Bimini (2021), A/C, autohelm, bottom painted 10/2023. Enclosed Captain’s quarters w/ double berth, Enclosed head/shower, Wrap-around setteeVERY spacious! Annapolis, MD. $23,000 Call 434.808.3512 or garudabuss@gmail.com

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

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

Brokerage & Classified

(Peregrine) 1999 J Boats J/105 Hull #252. Comes with good racing sails included. Located in Eastport, Annapolis. For more details, please email bcarruth816@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

1988 Bristol 41.1 Aft Cockpit Ready to cruise! Yanmar 66Turbo, abundant upgrades, A/C, Esparheat, Bow Thruster, solar panels, Sea Frost refrigerator, complete enclosure, dingy davits, 2 staterooms/2 heads. Centerboard. $125,000 For more info/ photos, email d.a.buttorff@gmail.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. Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or Dave@CrusaderYachts.com https://www.crusaderyachts.com/ boats-for-sale/1981-beneteau-first-42annapolis-maryland-9036488/

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

7350 Edgewood Rd., Annapolis, MD 21403

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

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

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

2001 Cape Fear 38 Designed by Bruce Marek, Xiberger is a successful RacerCruiser w/ significant podium winning results in both ORCi and PHRF. Asking $98,500 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. $79,000 Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or www.CrusaderYachts.com

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

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

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

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

2020 Jeanneau Yachts 54 Lightly used, professionally maintained and ready to cruise. Owner’s plans have changed, and he is switching to power. Asking $695,000 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

(Galatea) 37’ Beneteau oceanis ‘15 $135,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4500 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Meridian) 38’ Bristol ‘85 $69,000 Jason Hinsch 410.507.1259 jason@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

409 Chester Avenue, Suite A Annapolis, MD 21403 1.855.266.5676 | info@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

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

(Confidante) 36’ Vancouver ‘82 $60,000 Jim Edwards 252.474.5000 jedwards @curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

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

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

(Chaucer Blue) 41’ Morgan ‘77 $60,000 Lars Bergstrom 910.899.7941 lars@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

Bert Jabin Yacht Yard

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

(Messmee) 42’ Beneteau oceanis 423 ‘04 $135,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Quetzalcoatl) 45’ Bruce Roberts ‘98 $110,000 Jason Hinsch 410.507.1259 jason@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

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

(Savvy) 48’ Beneteau oceanis 48 ‘18 $475,000 Lars Bergstrom 910.899.7941 lars@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

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

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

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

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

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

Bavaria Yachts Quality Performance

Style. Enjoy the expertise of German engineering. C42 & C45 In Stock Now. On order for Spring 2024 deliveryC38, C46, C50. Thinking of a new boat or wanting to sell your Bavaria? Contact S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

7330 Edgewood Road, Suite 1 Annapolis, MD 21403

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

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

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

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

2007 J Boats J/109 Experience the best in performance sailing and cruising comfort in this very nice, well equipped shoal draft 5’9” version J/109. Contact David Malkin at 443.790.2786 or David@NorthPointYachtSales.com

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

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

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

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

www.NorthPointYachtSales.com

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

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

Brokers for Fine Yachts Brokers for Fine Yachts Annapolis, MD 410-571-3605 Rock Hall, MD 410-639-2777

Deltaville, VA 804-776-0604 Charleston, SC 843-872-8080 Palmetto, FL 941-212-6121

www.SJYACHTS.com

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

Catalina 355 ‘11 Nicely equipped, lightly used - below 900 engine hours. Shallow draft (4’ 9”), aluminum arch, inmast furling, electric anchor windlass, 1500-watt inverter, heat/air conditioning and more! $180,000 S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

2013 Marlow-Hunter 40 Stunning freshly painted blue hull, new bottom paint, hard bimini, 760 engine hours, bow thruster, clean interior, two cabin layout. Beautifully kept boat! $229,000 Charleston, SC. S&J Yachts 843.872.8080 www.sjyachts.com

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

Amazing shoal draft blue water

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

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

Deck Salon shoal

cruiser, great views & all the options; 3 electric winches, generator, bow thruster, laundry/workshop… great 2 cabin accommodations & centerline fwd berth. $229,000 S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

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

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

Hunter 49 ’07 Introducing a sleek, spacious, well-equipped, reliable, cruising sailboat w/ modern design, comfortable interior, and efficient performance for long voyages. $279,000 S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com

Southerly 57 ‘10 Luxurious Bluewater Performance Cruiser! Raised salon w/ panoramic views. Great cockpit for entertaining. Variable swing keel from 3’ 6” to 10’ 9” at the push of a button. Large transom platform/garage. $998,000 S&J Yachts 410.971.1071 www.sjyachts.com

Read boat reviews online at spinsheet.com

2012 Southerly 42 JUST SoLD

cruiser.

2023 Bavaria C42 Award

Catalina Morgan 440 2005 Superb galley-up

draft

2008 Island Packet 465 Located in St. Petersburg,

Anne & Jon Hutchings

17218 General Puller Hwy, Deltaville, VA

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

31’ Catalina 310

& large aft

Genoa (2022), Mainsail (+/-2015), Stormsail, Electric Windlass, Autopilot, Universal 25Hp Engine, Refrigeration, Bimini. $59,500 Urbanna, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

31’ Island Packet 31 ’84 This IP Classic is a ‘Big Little Boat’. Large cockpit, spacious interior. Standing Rigging 2019, Kato Davits, Refrigeration, Yanmar 27Hp engine w/ 1600 hours, Wheel Pilot. GREAT VALUE. $37,500 Deltaville, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

35’ Young Sun 35 ’82 Trusty Bob Perry designed double-ended cruiser. Full keel, fiberglass decks, watermaker, solar, bowthruster, new standing rigging (2021), ROCNA anchor, EPIRB, Arch & more. $49,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

41’ Island Packet SP Cruiser ’08 LOADED for cruising, 220V, Solar, Generator, Hydrovane, Water Maker, Generator, Batteries 2023, Standing Rigging 2020, Mainsail & Jib 2021, Ultraleather upholstery 2023, Weaver Davits, Dinghy 2020 and LOTS more. $239,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

42’ Beneteau 423 ’07 A Beneteau Best Seller! Two cabin, 2 head, Aircon, New Autopilot, Hard dodger, Bimini, Inmast furling, New bottom paint/hull wax 2024. $155,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 or jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

44’ Jeanneau 44 DS ’13 condition, 3 cabin (1 bunk cabin), New Ultraleather Upholstery 2022, Flex-ofold Prop 2023, Electric Winch, Raymarine Chartplotter 2021, AGM Batteries 2022, Custom mattress 2023, KATO Davits, MagnaSine Inverter, ROCNA 40lb anchor. $259,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com

’02 Perfect Bay boat. V-berth

berth.

MAR k ETPLACE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS

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

acceSSorieS | art | attorneYS | BooKS | BUSineSS opportUnitieS | captainS | charterS | creW | DeLiVerieS

eLectronicS | eQUipment | Finance | heLp WanteD | inSUrance | marine enGineS | marine SerViceS | proDUctS reaL eState | riGGinG | SaiLS | SchooLS | SLipS & StoraGe | SUrVeYorS | traiLerS | ViDeoS | WanteD | WooDWorKinG

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

CAPTAINS

Part Time 100-ton Captain w/ Sail Endorsement Alexandria, VA Seeking a Captain for 2024 sailing season. Providence is a 60’ LOD topsail sloop. We offer two-hour sailing excursions on the Potomac River. Time commitment: 14 -24 hours over a 2-to-3day period weekly from April until November. Tall ship experience a plus, but not required. One-week paid training available in March for qualified candidates. Please contact Captain Jonathan at 218.576.5492 or Captain@tallshipprovidence.org www.tallshipprovidence.org

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

ELECTR o NICS

EQUIPMENT

Race Master Tactical Compass (Tack Tick) Lightly used, excellent condition – sold boat, bought for $800, asking $500 For more info, please text 410.504.4922

EQUIPMENT

H ELP WANTED

Asst. Dockmaster: Safe Harbor Great oak Landing SHGOL Marina has an immediate need for an Assistant Dockmaster. The Assistant Dockmaster is responsible for working w/ the Dockmaster to ensure the safe mooring of vessels, general operation of the docks, assisting boaters, and maintaining a safe and clean environment throughout the Marina facilities. For information, call 410.778.5007 or email bdonahue@shmarinas.com. To apply, visit www.shmarinas.com/careers

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

Dockmaster: Safe Harbor Great oak Landing SHGOL Marina has an immediate need for a full-time Dockmaster. The Dockmaster is responsible for overall Marina operation and slip activity, and is the principal person w/ whom Members or guests interact. Responsibilities also include mooring of vessels, general operation of the docks, assisting boaters, and maintaining a safe and clean environment throughout the Marina. For information, call 410.778.5007 or email bdonahue@shmarinas.com. To apply, visit www.shmarinas.com/careers

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

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

H ELP WANTED

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

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

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

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

M ARINE S ERVICES

M ARINE S ERVICES

SAIL

SAIL S

SCH oo LS

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

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

Marine Reference Source! #1

SLIPS

SLIPS

City:__________________________

Biz Buzz

New Line

Pocket Yacht Company now represents NorthCoast Boats. Known for their rugged, purposeful design and exceptional offshore saltwater fishing capabilities, NorthCoast Boats perfectly complements the Pocket Yacht Company’s commitment to providing high-quality vessels to its customers. Designed for the most demanding anglers, these boats are built to withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing. With a 12-year hull warranty, they offer unmatched durability and peace of mind for boaters venturing into deep waters. Pocket Yacht Company is proud to represent this brand of models ranging from 23 to 41 feet from Maryland down through the South Carolina region. “We are excited to introduce NorthCoast to our customers,” said Mark Schulstad, owner and managing director at Pocket Yacht Company. “These boats perfectly align with our mission to provide high-quality vessels that meet the unique needs of our East Coast boating community. With NorthCoast, we’re offering a top-tier fishing experience backed by exceptional durability.” For more information, visit pocketyacht.com or call (888) 519-9120.

New Fleet

The Moorings and its sister company Sunsail announce positive developments for their charter operations in the British Virgin Islands to kick off the 2024 calendar year. Together they operate the largest fleet of charter yachts in the BVI and recently welcomed the arrival of 78 new yachts: 19 new monohulls, 35 new sailing catamarans, and 24 new power catamarans to their BVI fleet, with a combined value of $70 million. This brings the operators’ combined charter fleet to 254 yachts—a welcome influx of inventory in time for peak sailing season in the Caribbean and another step in the continuous renewal of the sister companies’ fleets.

In addition, The Moorings and Sunsail operation has undergone an extensive hiring process, also in response to increased demand. One of the largest employers in the Virgin Islands, they now boast a workforce of 300 employees. “As a business we have invested heavily in our BVI operation,” says Josie Tucci, vice president of sales and marketing for The Moorings and Sunsail. “As the largest charter operator in the world’s most popular charter destination, we take great care to ensure a welcoming experience for our guests and have gone to great lengths to maximize the guest experience through our marina revitalization project, and new fleet replenishment. Ultimately our aim is to provide an unparalleled customer experience to the many thousands of visitors we welcome each year.” moorings.com

Board and officers

Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB) announces the addition of George Schulze and Keith Misner to its board of directors. “The CRAB board is very pleased to have George and Keith join the team at this exciting time in our history. Their leadership and guidance will be valuable as we build and operate from the premier adaptive boating center in the country,” commented CRAB board chairman Jim Nolan. George Schulze was on the CRAB board of directors from 20202021 before moving out of state. CRAB looks forward to his return to Annapolis and his home on Spa Creek. George has felt a strong personal affinity with CRAB’s mission after suffering an accident that led to several surgeries, leaving him with some nerve damage to his knee. “The joy that boating brings to CRAB’s guests is a constant,” said George.

Keith Misner has lived in Annapolis for more than 30 years and has over 35 years of national commercial real estate experience with success in investment sales, asset management, and development in public and private owner/investor firms and major service providers. “My father was paralyzed in a car accident in the 1980s, and we were a very active family that worked hard to support and encourage everyone we met with paralysis to enjoy life,” remarked Keith. Officers elected for 2024 are Jim Nolan, Chairman; Beth Rossman, Vice Chair/Secretary; Will Crump, Treasurer; and David Hankey, Immediate-Past Chair serving for one year. crabsailing.org

Program Updates

Dream Yacht Sales (DYS), a part of Dream Yacht Worldwide, has announced exciting new paths to yacht ownership, with several new programs and updates, ensuring that offerings continue to meet the needs of new buyers. Dream Guarantee is a popular and enduring program, allowing worry-free yacht ownership with an income to offset the purchase cost. Now, the program has been updated to provide 10 percent guaranteed income for up to three and a half years and an additional one percent income on select Lagoon catamaran models. All insurance, berthing, and maintenance costs are included in the program. The new increased income allows owners to offset the current higher interest rates and allows flexibility at the end of the 36- to 42-month program. New buyers of the popular Lagoon 40, L42, or L46 catamaran models with deliveries in 2024 are eligible to place their yacht with the Dream Guarantee ownership program and earn an additional one percent income for the duration of their program.

The Dream Fractional program eliminates many of the barriers for would-be yacht owners with a much lower buy-in cost. As the part owner of a charter yacht, owners receive payments from the yacht’s charter revenue that helps offset operating expenses. Plus, they enjoy ease of ownership with maintenance, finances, and charter marketing all managed by Dream Yacht. The new Dream Second Sail program is for pre-owned yacht buyers and provides a charter income up to 10 percent per year. Second Sail lets buyers offset the purchase cost of a pre-owned boat while benefiting from an all-inclusive management service. The 24-month program is customizable with a higher amount of owner use time or income, whichever helps new buyers to make the most of their investment. For those considering a large luxury catamaran purchase, the Dream Crewed Fractional program with professional crew delivers complete ease and enjoyment. Owners share a luxury sailing catamaran with two other owners and split the expenses. The one-third ownership comes with guaranteed fixed running costs for two full years, plenty of sailing time, and none of the hassles of traditional ownership. Yachts available for the program include the impressive Fountaine Pajot Samana 59 and FP 80 catamarans. To learn more, visit dreamyachtsales.com

Companies Are Hiring in the Marine Trades Meet Emily Decker of MtaM

Emily Decker, Annapolis sailor and longtime marine industry professional, runs the workforce development program at the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM). We caught up with her last month to learn more about how people can find work in the marine industry:

How long have you been in the marine industry?

I’ve worked in the marine industry on and off since the 1990s, first with a fledgling SpinSheet Magazine. I ran a one-design sailboat racing class (which included professional sailors). I took some time away from the marine industry to pursue a brief career in marketing and advertising before returning and working at J-World Annapolis for 10 years. In 2023, it was on to MTAM!

Tell us about MTAM’s workforce development program.

The Maryland Trades Industry Partnership (MTIP) is a collaborative program run by MTAM to recruit young adults who may want to pursue a career in the marine trades or to provide access to continuing education to young marine professionals. MTIP partners include maritime companies across Maryland, local workforce development organizations, and educational institutions including colleges, secondary and trade schools.

Applicants are placed in six-week, paid internships with one of our industry partners where they get a hands-on learning experience with the ultimate goal of permanent employment at the end of the six weeks. The program is subsidized by a grant from the state of Maryland’s Department of Labor.

The program also includes an incumbent worker training initiative that consists of matching funds for training existing workers as well as supplementing group training for the industry. This continued professional development is critical for maintaining and growing a sustainable workforce.

The third initiative in this program is MTAM’s Young Marine Professionals,

which is an effort designed to keep these new professionals engaged within the industry. We host several social events around the Chesapeake Bay where young marine professionals can network, share best practices, and build friendships based on common interests and goals.

Maryland Grant Background: EARN Maryland, a program of the Maryland Department of Labor, was created in 2013 to form industry-led partnerships to advance the state’s workforce, grow the state’s economy, and increase sustainable employment for working families. It is a competitive workforce and economic development grant program that is industry-led and regional in focus. It is flexible and innovative, designed to ensure that Maryland employers have the talent they need to compete and grow while providing targeted education and skills training to Maryland workers. This includes career advancement strategies for incumbent workers and support for individuals entering the workforce.

What do you wish more boaters knew about the marine trades?

I wish boaters on the Chesapeake had a greater appreciation for the importance

of the marine industry in Maryland and Virginia. The total annual economic impact of recreational boating in just these two states is over $7.1 billion, and supports more than 32,000 jobs.

The recreational boating industry is hiring! The current workforce is aging and just about everyone is looking for younger talent to hire and train. While it is certainly helpful to have some marine tech skills with knowledge of engine mechanics, composite, electronics or systems, many companies are willing to take on individuals who have the right work ethic with a willingness to learn.

Do you have time to go sailing?

Thankfully, my position does allow for some flexibility to take time off to go sailing. In addition to local racing on the Chesapeake Bay, I plan to do the Newport-Bermuda Race in June. Sailing offshore is one of my biggest passions, whether cruising or racing. I can’t wait to get out there again.

MTAM will exhibit at regional high school and college career fairs as well as at the Bay Bridge Boat Show (April 12-14) and Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show (April 26-28). Learn more at mtam.org.

# Emily Decker frostbite racing in Annapolis.

Photo by Will Keyworth

WHATEVER IT TAKES.

Already dreaming about a cruising adventure or big race for this season? Scan the QR code to schedule service or to contact a representative for assistance with new sails. We’re here to do whatever it takes to get you on the water and keep you sailing.