Thursday, December 03, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Back in La Paz BCS
November 29, 2009
The following postings were written in the time frame Nov 14 to today. I will try to put some pictures on the blog.
Arrived back in La Paz this afternoon, one day earlier than we planned. Last night was a very rough night with 4 foot swells and 20 knots of wind in the anchorage. No a word about that weather on the SSB during the day and it caught us by surprise. A much more worrisome night than the ones off the coast of California in that the fetch was 15 miles and the surge and swells had some time and distance to build up. Broke te snugger on he anchor rode and had to rely on just the ½” line for windlass relief and strain reduction. Left and had a great sail today with westerlies all day. Sitting here in Marina Palmira which is quite lavish and fancy. Wish I was back in the islands.
Boat chores to put her to sleep for 2 months and then fly home on the 2nd.
November 14, 2009
Left La Paz this morning to go north to the islands. Very difficult time in my setting up moorage for Allymar while I return to Oregon for 2 months. Not sure what it was that I ate, but wokeup in the middle of the night with the problem noone wants to have when traveling. They were so good to me in the office at Marina Palmira. Found me a couch to lie on, took my information from the couch, brought me water and gatoraide and let me just keep the key to the bathroom. All ready to the layup and have my tickets for Oregon on Dec 2nd. On second thought, bet it was the sample food that I ate in the CCC.
What did I do all day on the boat? Slept all the way to Caleta Prieta and most of the rest of the day. I have absolutely no idea what Dean did beyond driving the boat there. Clark and Nina dingy’d over when we go here, but I had no energy to do more than get anchored and put the sail covers on. Hope for a better day tomorrow. Tonight the norther is coming in so that say.
November 15, 2009
A lot better today, still not eating. The bay is filled with boats (power and sail) waiting out the norther. Blew fairly hard last night and today with gusts up to 25 here in the protected bay. Motored around some in the dingy and although got soaked from the swell splash, it was refreshing. Can’t help but hark back to the days on Santa Cruz and in frisco bay where we needed to use foulies to keep from freezing from the spray when out in the dingy in a breeze. Warm and dry has been replaced with warm and OK wet. Spent some time on shore and it was fun to walk in the steps left from my time here last year. I do enjoy returning to places that hold good memories. Watched the kayak parties come in and won der about the couple from Colorado who went on the kayak trip last year in an effort to put some energy back into their marriage. I wished that well and a happy life together. Their intention was good and maybe getting away together was the poultice that they needed.
Planned an afternoon brunch with Russ and Ros, Clark and Nina on Worrel Wind. Maybe a hike before.
The norther continues to blow here. Wind blasts down the anchorage between the east and west openings and spins us all around. Can’t imagine what it is like outside this beautiful place. The fish camps seem 5to have made it through the hurricane rather well, or they have rebuilt them to look like before. One of the rough structures had a TV antenna, solar panel and VHF antenna. These fishermen spend considerable time in these remote camps and return to their base to sell fish and replenish food and salt. I have seen no females fishing.
Interesting crabs here: Fiddler Crabs with one small clawthey use to eat with (the up and down movement like the movement of a bow) and another very large on used for mating. I guess that size matters no matter the difficulty in holding it I saw some males that had one that must have been hard to walk with. They did seem to be proud and carried themselves in a grand manner, clay up and ready.
This is also the nesting and mating grounds for the blue footed booby. Last time I saw one was in San Diego at the going away party where a man was dressed as one with blue shoes and one rather large boob in the middle of his chest.
Looks like we will spend one more night here as the swells and wind have not dropped much.
November 16, 2009
Yep, another day here in Caleta Prieta. A day spent hiking up the northeast wall of the crater to the escarpment at the top with Russ. Fantastic views of this old volcanic crater. A big difference from last year is how green it is due to the recent hurricane. The desert is in bloom with flowers, new green growth and underbrush where last year there was only dirt and rocks. Hiked up a water course where you can just imagine the speed and force of the water than arrives with a hurricane and must find its way downhill. We passed through bolder fields with deep holes that still held water and smooth waves of rock that were like waling on a sidewalk for 100 feet.
The water clarity was not As good as I hoped due to the action of the norther caused swells. Thus snorkeling was not as dramatic. Wish I had an Hawaiian sling.
Will leave here tomorrow.
November 17, 2009
Left Caleta Prieta thast morning and got nowhere at all. Were able to go about 2.9 knots max with pounding and pitching from the residual swell from the norther. Turned around and anchored about 1 mile north in Ensenada Grande. Just like it was last year trying to go north from San Francisco to Evaristo. Allymar and most boats can’t go into the swells without significant difficulty. One of those times where you just stop and go to plan B. Plan B is pretty damm good as Ensenada Grande was excellent water clarity, a wall to snorkel on and a somewhat flat hike. Hiked up the arroyo to some caves filled with shells that fall out of the overhead over time. Leaching out of the substrate over time so give us a sense of time and geologic history. Could also smell sulfur and the water in the lagoon was slightly warm although nothing was mentioned in the cruising guide about hot springs here.
The most common cactus is the Cardon Cactus. It can get to heights of 70 feet snd 4 feet in diameter. Some of them were in bloom and probably relate to the late season hurricane as this is not the blooming season. They are a type of Sargasso and look like sentinels along the ridge tops.
There are only 3 boats in this large anchorage. 1 of which like us went out in the morning and came into here.
November 18, 2009
What a difference a day makes. The swells were almost nonexistent, and the winds were also nonexistent. Thus we had to motor this sailboat north. Prevailing Noserlies again darn. Stopped tonight at a roadsted anchorage at Manglo Solo on San Josed island. Rather spectacular place to anchor. Open to all but the north east and east, with a dramatic view of the sun setting over the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range. Turned the island at our back red and orange as the sea turned from blue green to black. Before the sun set I was able to dingy to shore and hike over to the estuary behind the sun spit and once again wished I knew the names of the birds nesting and swimming on the flat salt pond. Another large cactus forest on the shore and the continuing green from the recent hurricane.
November 19, 2009
Woke this morning to the opposite of last nights display of color and light. The mountain range that was dark last evening was decorated with bright yellow light and was able to show off its sedimentary striations to all their splendor. Speaking of splendor, we sailed almost all day today wityh a strong NE wind, slowing backing to N at the end of the day. The non-silence of the boat when just under sail might be loud if not in comparison to the noise of the motor. It’s a swoosh, a swish, a companion sound of hull, rigging and wind than is soothing to me and seems to fall into a rhythm with the rise and fall of Allymar as she rides the swells.
Arrived at Bahia San Marte on the peninsula of Ba Ha. Just around the corner is Bahia Aqua Verde which will be our most northerly destination on this trip inside. In some ways all of these places seem to look the same. The difference is in the feeling of each place. Sand or pebble beaches. Smells coming off the land in the evening (smells that I have never felt before, both pleasant and unpleasant. Will try to find the aroma agent tomorrow as the trip ashore was short tonight.
November 20, 2009
Rough night. Swells out of the north wrapped around Punta San Marte and gave us a rather lumpy, rocky and uncomfortable night. Moved over behing a headlands for better protection from these swells. Was able to look down on the anchorage and the curving of the swells was very apparent from above. As frustrating as it is the opportunity to have thiis LOCAL KNOWLEDGE is part of the learning curve in my sailing encyclopedia. Thus we moved just al little bit and the comfort level is so much better. I have a habit of not anchoring near other boats, I guess to give them their space and not fall into the herd instincve I see often where we need to be close to others for some feeling of comfort and safety. I see it all the time: Large anchorage, 1 boat there and another anchors 100 feet away. Wish I had done that last night.
Hiked a lot and have about 5 possible options for the evening smalls. Will bartbacue the last of the chicken tonight and have it with quinona and grilled veggies. Breakfast was pancakes.
November 21, 2009
Bahia Aqua Verde. Tienda had minimal junk food and no veggies and the restaurant was open but the esposa was not in the la Casida thus we had to suffice with crackers and coke for lunch. Manly food don’t you think. What a delicious feast foe the eyes this bahia. Nestled in behind the reef near a small h with fishing pangas pulled up beyond the high tide line just to port of Allymar. Green water, pelicans (haVe I mentioned pelicans lately) and now to take a shower.
November 23, 2009
The tienda was much better yesterday. Maria was there and the truck from highway 1 had arrived. Was able to purchase veggies, pollo and crackers. No cervesa was availiable and we will have to go short rations until we arrive back at La Paz in a week. There is the slight chance that there will be beer in San Evariso in a couple of days. No wind at all the last 2 days, not even a land or sea breeze early or late in the day. We are presently under way south for either Puerto Los Gatos or San Telmo. Motoring again, but if you don’t motor you do not get anywhere it seems. The sailing here is somewhat like the San Juan’s and Gulf Islands in the variability of winds. We are hoping for a land breeze so left early to hopefully catch it. Capt and crew are falling into a more relaxed lifestyle each day and enjoying the sun and good weather. Having the water close at hand to cool off makes even the most warn and hot days tolerable.
November 23, 2009. 2100 hours
Got the sea breeze. Yahoo.
November 25, 2009
The day before Thanksgiving and I did not remember until someone on the beach today reminded me of that day where we remember and thank the universe for all of the wonderful experiences and opportunities open to us. I must mention at this time that I have no idea why the text is doing something weird on this page. So, here I sit in the cockpit of Allymar in the anchorage at Isla San Francisco under an overcast sky with almost half of a moon peeking through the clouds and almost providing enough light to do this computer by. Shorts and shirt, warm with just a slight breeze out of the north. I am thankful. Outside the anchorage the wind is 18 to 20 with the steep high frequency swells common here when the wind builds from the north. I am thankful to be anchored and calm. Hiked to the ridge this afternoon to look down on the anchorage and was disarmed by the color of the water. Green slowly turning to white as the shore approached and blue as the waters deepened off shore. I am thankful. Sailed from Bahia Los Gatos to Puerto San Evistero yesterday and from there to Isla San Francisco today without any need for the motor. & knots downwind under the twins and reefed main and mizzen. Allymar comes into her own as the wind piped up and keeps her balance and carries us safely to our destination. I am thankful. Caught a skipjack tuna each of ythe last 2 days and enjoyed the bounty of the sea each evening. I am thankful. Doogie McClean on the IPOD and I remember how his music at times matches the beat and time of the swells offshore. I am thankful again. Swaying here at anchor in company with other sailors and their crafts of transport. Meeting new and old friends on the beach and as the dingy’s travel boat to boat. I am thankful. I will be home this time next week with my partner Harp in our home in Oregon. I am and will be thankful. I hope and dream that she will be able to join me enough to really appreciate this area when she comes down here. To miss dinner tomorrow at my brother’s home in Chico is a sadness, but one tempered by memories of past dinners and the idea that we are connected in spirit if not space.
Tomorrow’s travel will be farther south heading to La Paz. Plan is to revisit Ensanada Grande where I was very content and napped in the afternoon. The clarity of the water was excellent for snorkeling and I will have more practice in taking underwater photos.Hopefully this small Norther will continue long enough to push us in a quiet mode on our journey Allymar has been such a good steed for the last (almost) 3 months. Hard to believe it has been that long. Will put her to bed in La Paz for 2 months or so and then ride her again until April 2010.
November 27, 2009
Hanging out here in the islands, Snorkeling, hiking and napping. A lot of fun is being had.
Love to all
Fair winds
Ken
The following postings were written in the time frame Nov 14 to today. I will try to put some pictures on the blog.
Arrived back in La Paz this afternoon, one day earlier than we planned. Last night was a very rough night with 4 foot swells and 20 knots of wind in the anchorage. No a word about that weather on the SSB during the day and it caught us by surprise. A much more worrisome night than the ones off the coast of California in that the fetch was 15 miles and the surge and swells had some time and distance to build up. Broke te snugger on he anchor rode and had to rely on just the ½” line for windlass relief and strain reduction. Left and had a great sail today with westerlies all day. Sitting here in Marina Palmira which is quite lavish and fancy. Wish I was back in the islands.
Boat chores to put her to sleep for 2 months and then fly home on the 2nd.
November 14, 2009
Left La Paz this morning to go north to the islands. Very difficult time in my setting up moorage for Allymar while I return to Oregon for 2 months. Not sure what it was that I ate, but wokeup in the middle of the night with the problem noone wants to have when traveling. They were so good to me in the office at Marina Palmira. Found me a couch to lie on, took my information from the couch, brought me water and gatoraide and let me just keep the key to the bathroom. All ready to the layup and have my tickets for Oregon on Dec 2nd. On second thought, bet it was the sample food that I ate in the CCC.
What did I do all day on the boat? Slept all the way to Caleta Prieta and most of the rest of the day. I have absolutely no idea what Dean did beyond driving the boat there. Clark and Nina dingy’d over when we go here, but I had no energy to do more than get anchored and put the sail covers on. Hope for a better day tomorrow. Tonight the norther is coming in so that say.
November 15, 2009
A lot better today, still not eating. The bay is filled with boats (power and sail) waiting out the norther. Blew fairly hard last night and today with gusts up to 25 here in the protected bay. Motored around some in the dingy and although got soaked from the swell splash, it was refreshing. Can’t help but hark back to the days on Santa Cruz and in frisco bay where we needed to use foulies to keep from freezing from the spray when out in the dingy in a breeze. Warm and dry has been replaced with warm and OK wet. Spent some time on shore and it was fun to walk in the steps left from my time here last year. I do enjoy returning to places that hold good memories. Watched the kayak parties come in and won der about the couple from Colorado who went on the kayak trip last year in an effort to put some energy back into their marriage. I wished that well and a happy life together. Their intention was good and maybe getting away together was the poultice that they needed.
Planned an afternoon brunch with Russ and Ros, Clark and Nina on Worrel Wind. Maybe a hike before.
The norther continues to blow here. Wind blasts down the anchorage between the east and west openings and spins us all around. Can’t imagine what it is like outside this beautiful place. The fish camps seem 5to have made it through the hurricane rather well, or they have rebuilt them to look like before. One of the rough structures had a TV antenna, solar panel and VHF antenna. These fishermen spend considerable time in these remote camps and return to their base to sell fish and replenish food and salt. I have seen no females fishing.
Interesting crabs here: Fiddler Crabs with one small clawthey use to eat with (the up and down movement like the movement of a bow) and another very large on used for mating. I guess that size matters no matter the difficulty in holding it I saw some males that had one that must have been hard to walk with. They did seem to be proud and carried themselves in a grand manner, clay up and ready.
This is also the nesting and mating grounds for the blue footed booby. Last time I saw one was in San Diego at the going away party where a man was dressed as one with blue shoes and one rather large boob in the middle of his chest.
Looks like we will spend one more night here as the swells and wind have not dropped much.
November 16, 2009
Yep, another day here in Caleta Prieta. A day spent hiking up the northeast wall of the crater to the escarpment at the top with Russ. Fantastic views of this old volcanic crater. A big difference from last year is how green it is due to the recent hurricane. The desert is in bloom with flowers, new green growth and underbrush where last year there was only dirt and rocks. Hiked up a water course where you can just imagine the speed and force of the water than arrives with a hurricane and must find its way downhill. We passed through bolder fields with deep holes that still held water and smooth waves of rock that were like waling on a sidewalk for 100 feet.
The water clarity was not As good as I hoped due to the action of the norther caused swells. Thus snorkeling was not as dramatic. Wish I had an Hawaiian sling.
Will leave here tomorrow.
November 17, 2009
Left Caleta Prieta thast morning and got nowhere at all. Were able to go about 2.9 knots max with pounding and pitching from the residual swell from the norther. Turned around and anchored about 1 mile north in Ensenada Grande. Just like it was last year trying to go north from San Francisco to Evaristo. Allymar and most boats can’t go into the swells without significant difficulty. One of those times where you just stop and go to plan B. Plan B is pretty damm good as Ensenada Grande was excellent water clarity, a wall to snorkel on and a somewhat flat hike. Hiked up the arroyo to some caves filled with shells that fall out of the overhead over time. Leaching out of the substrate over time so give us a sense of time and geologic history. Could also smell sulfur and the water in the lagoon was slightly warm although nothing was mentioned in the cruising guide about hot springs here.
The most common cactus is the Cardon Cactus. It can get to heights of 70 feet snd 4 feet in diameter. Some of them were in bloom and probably relate to the late season hurricane as this is not the blooming season. They are a type of Sargasso and look like sentinels along the ridge tops.
There are only 3 boats in this large anchorage. 1 of which like us went out in the morning and came into here.
November 18, 2009
What a difference a day makes. The swells were almost nonexistent, and the winds were also nonexistent. Thus we had to motor this sailboat north. Prevailing Noserlies again darn. Stopped tonight at a roadsted anchorage at Manglo Solo on San Josed island. Rather spectacular place to anchor. Open to all but the north east and east, with a dramatic view of the sun setting over the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range. Turned the island at our back red and orange as the sea turned from blue green to black. Before the sun set I was able to dingy to shore and hike over to the estuary behind the sun spit and once again wished I knew the names of the birds nesting and swimming on the flat salt pond. Another large cactus forest on the shore and the continuing green from the recent hurricane.
November 19, 2009
Woke this morning to the opposite of last nights display of color and light. The mountain range that was dark last evening was decorated with bright yellow light and was able to show off its sedimentary striations to all their splendor. Speaking of splendor, we sailed almost all day today wityh a strong NE wind, slowing backing to N at the end of the day. The non-silence of the boat when just under sail might be loud if not in comparison to the noise of the motor. It’s a swoosh, a swish, a companion sound of hull, rigging and wind than is soothing to me and seems to fall into a rhythm with the rise and fall of Allymar as she rides the swells.
Arrived at Bahia San Marte on the peninsula of Ba Ha. Just around the corner is Bahia Aqua Verde which will be our most northerly destination on this trip inside. In some ways all of these places seem to look the same. The difference is in the feeling of each place. Sand or pebble beaches. Smells coming off the land in the evening (smells that I have never felt before, both pleasant and unpleasant. Will try to find the aroma agent tomorrow as the trip ashore was short tonight.
November 20, 2009
Rough night. Swells out of the north wrapped around Punta San Marte and gave us a rather lumpy, rocky and uncomfortable night. Moved over behing a headlands for better protection from these swells. Was able to look down on the anchorage and the curving of the swells was very apparent from above. As frustrating as it is the opportunity to have thiis LOCAL KNOWLEDGE is part of the learning curve in my sailing encyclopedia. Thus we moved just al little bit and the comfort level is so much better. I have a habit of not anchoring near other boats, I guess to give them their space and not fall into the herd instincve I see often where we need to be close to others for some feeling of comfort and safety. I see it all the time: Large anchorage, 1 boat there and another anchors 100 feet away. Wish I had done that last night.
Hiked a lot and have about 5 possible options for the evening smalls. Will bartbacue the last of the chicken tonight and have it with quinona and grilled veggies. Breakfast was pancakes.
November 21, 2009
Bahia Aqua Verde. Tienda had minimal junk food and no veggies and the restaurant was open but the esposa was not in the la Casida thus we had to suffice with crackers and coke for lunch. Manly food don’t you think. What a delicious feast foe the eyes this bahia. Nestled in behind the reef near a small h with fishing pangas pulled up beyond the high tide line just to port of Allymar. Green water, pelicans (haVe I mentioned pelicans lately) and now to take a shower.
November 23, 2009
The tienda was much better yesterday. Maria was there and the truck from highway 1 had arrived. Was able to purchase veggies, pollo and crackers. No cervesa was availiable and we will have to go short rations until we arrive back at La Paz in a week. There is the slight chance that there will be beer in San Evariso in a couple of days. No wind at all the last 2 days, not even a land or sea breeze early or late in the day. We are presently under way south for either Puerto Los Gatos or San Telmo. Motoring again, but if you don’t motor you do not get anywhere it seems. The sailing here is somewhat like the San Juan’s and Gulf Islands in the variability of winds. We are hoping for a land breeze so left early to hopefully catch it. Capt and crew are falling into a more relaxed lifestyle each day and enjoying the sun and good weather. Having the water close at hand to cool off makes even the most warn and hot days tolerable.
November 23, 2009. 2100 hours
Got the sea breeze. Yahoo.
November 25, 2009
The day before Thanksgiving and I did not remember until someone on the beach today reminded me of that day where we remember and thank the universe for all of the wonderful experiences and opportunities open to us. I must mention at this time that I have no idea why the text is doing something weird on this page. So, here I sit in the cockpit of Allymar in the anchorage at Isla San Francisco under an overcast sky with almost half of a moon peeking through the clouds and almost providing enough light to do this computer by. Shorts and shirt, warm with just a slight breeze out of the north. I am thankful. Outside the anchorage the wind is 18 to 20 with the steep high frequency swells common here when the wind builds from the north. I am thankful to be anchored and calm. Hiked to the ridge this afternoon to look down on the anchorage and was disarmed by the color of the water. Green slowly turning to white as the shore approached and blue as the waters deepened off shore. I am thankful. Sailed from Bahia Los Gatos to Puerto San Evistero yesterday and from there to Isla San Francisco today without any need for the motor. & knots downwind under the twins and reefed main and mizzen. Allymar comes into her own as the wind piped up and keeps her balance and carries us safely to our destination. I am thankful. Caught a skipjack tuna each of ythe last 2 days and enjoyed the bounty of the sea each evening. I am thankful. Doogie McClean on the IPOD and I remember how his music at times matches the beat and time of the swells offshore. I am thankful again. Swaying here at anchor in company with other sailors and their crafts of transport. Meeting new and old friends on the beach and as the dingy’s travel boat to boat. I am thankful. I will be home this time next week with my partner Harp in our home in Oregon. I am and will be thankful. I hope and dream that she will be able to join me enough to really appreciate this area when she comes down here. To miss dinner tomorrow at my brother’s home in Chico is a sadness, but one tempered by memories of past dinners and the idea that we are connected in spirit if not space.
Tomorrow’s travel will be farther south heading to La Paz. Plan is to revisit Ensanada Grande where I was very content and napped in the afternoon. The clarity of the water was excellent for snorkeling and I will have more practice in taking underwater photos.Hopefully this small Norther will continue long enough to push us in a quiet mode on our journey Allymar has been such a good steed for the last (almost) 3 months. Hard to believe it has been that long. Will put her to bed in La Paz for 2 months or so and then ride her again until April 2010.
November 27, 2009
Hanging out here in the islands, Snorkeling, hiking and napping. A lot of fun is being had.
Love to all
Fair winds
Ken
Friday, November 13, 2009
Good news, bad news
Hello from La Paz
Well the good news is that the weather here today and through sunday will be in the 80's with winds in the 10 knot range. The bad news is that the first "norther" of the year is scheduled to arrive just after that. A norther is a cool windy blast coming down the Sea of Cortez from the Colorado plateau. It will change our traval plans to the islands during its duration. Our plan is to go north and homestead a shaltered cove for the duration, and then head north. Worst things could happen as the coves that offer sufficent protection can hold enough boats that we should be not only sheltered but in company of other "beach party" boats. Hunker down. party and have fun ah. Today is provisioning, sightseeing and enjoying the great weather we have.
I will be able to post again on November 30 as there are no towns or electronic options in the islands. Fantastic. Harp has made my airline connections and I will be back in oregon on dec 3rd.
Had a good reunion with the three gorls from Don Quixote yesterday. They are a yearolder but just as sweet and communicative as last year (well 2 of them are, but that was the way it was last year also)
Well the good news is that the weather here today and through sunday will be in the 80's with winds in the 10 knot range. The bad news is that the first "norther" of the year is scheduled to arrive just after that. A norther is a cool windy blast coming down the Sea of Cortez from the Colorado plateau. It will change our traval plans to the islands during its duration. Our plan is to go north and homestead a shaltered cove for the duration, and then head north. Worst things could happen as the coves that offer sufficent protection can hold enough boats that we should be not only sheltered but in company of other "beach party" boats. Hunker down. party and have fun ah. Today is provisioning, sightseeing and enjoying the great weather we have.
I will be able to post again on November 30 as there are no towns or electronic options in the islands. Fantastic. Harp has made my airline connections and I will be back in oregon on dec 3rd.
Had a good reunion with the three gorls from Don Quixote yesterday. They are a yearolder but just as sweet and communicative as last year (well 2 of them are, but that was the way it was last year also)
Thursday, November 12, 2009
La Paz
Writing that in La Paz which is about 100 miles north from Cabo and a world apart in additude and comfort for me. What a difference to be in a place wher the local people live and the place is not filled up with tourists drinking beer etc. Coming north from Cabo we stopped at Bahia los Frailes and Ensenada Los Muertos. Both beautiful bays with sandy beaches and opportunity to walk and get off the boat for a while. Los Muertos has a restruant (restruant 1535) that is named after the datre that Cortez srrived there. The reason for the restryant is the gringo golf coouse and club situated there. 1 grand a night to stay in the club condo wow. The water is the most striking shade of blue and you can see rather large fish swimming below the boat. The sight of rays surfacing and jumping into the air is a startling experience the first time you see it.
To get back to Cabo again; there was a radio call out from a boater who stated how glad he was to leave, and the call was echoed by 3 other boats.
So where from here: We will leave on sat and head north to the islands and see how far we can get and arrive back here on December the first. I hope to get to Laredo if possible. Both Dean and I have agreed that hurring along to see more places is not as good as quality enjoyment where we do go. I will be flying home to Oregon and Harp on Dec 2.
To get back to Cabo again; there was a radio call out from a boater who stated how glad he was to leave, and the call was echoed by 3 other boats.
So where from here: We will leave on sat and head north to the islands and see how far we can get and arrive back here on December the first. I hope to get to Laredo if possible. Both Dean and I have agreed that hurring along to see more places is not as good as quality enjoyment where we do go. I will be flying home to Oregon and Harp on Dec 2.
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Hello from Cabo We made it didn't we
October 25, 2009
Tried to post something three times and the Howard Johnson web site would not allow me to do it. The nerve of them!! Hopefully Harp was able to post something for me. Today is the big party at West Marine where all of us (700) to meet the folks. Tomorrow is the big day to leave at 1100.
October 27, 2009
Put our anchor down not in Turtle bay a expected, but rather in Bahia San Quentin. There was a rather big swell out in the pacific and all but the hard core racers came here. It was a bit snotty especially with the swell lifting and transom and constantly spilling all of the wind out of the sails. Rock and rolling that made both of the crew quite sea sick. Based upon prior experience I went out of my way to remind them of the importance of both eating and drinking even if that is only a temporary input to their body. At the same time I have to remember that I m not their keeper and as adults they can ans should make good decisions. That is something they both do, but I am “always the pop” in my own mind.
We had to motor 1/3rd of the way the San Quintin, as the wind finally went away (at a level that will move Allymar 12 knots). I look forward to getting to cruising grounds where I can leave or stay according to my and not a schedule of the rally. Positive notes on being able to finally get the ham radio working and can communicate with other ham’s and SSB users on boats. The problem was a loose connection and not a big grounding or antenna/counterpoise problem.
Writing this as we passage to Turtle Bay. Great winds although the swells are still present. Bad news in that a J 120 was attacked by a whale as they left San Qunitin and as a result JWorld was lost. All 5 hands were picked up by Coast Guard chopper and are safe and well in San Diego. They had 7 minutes to get off the boat into the liferaft, set off the EPRIP and had a horrible time in a swamped and wet raft. First boat lost in the history of the Ha Ha. Puts a note of caution and awareness of the fact we are in a less forgiving environment that on land and must be ready to make decisions that are and can be lifesaving. My heart goes out to them.
As for this moment I was just out on deck, the moon is out, looking down the swells is like a canyon that moves taking you with it. Swells are scheduled to be 20-25t on 12-14 second intervals and they are that.
October 30. 2009
Turtle Bay, lights of all the anchored boats as backdrop to warm windy Mexican nights. We will leave tomorrow for Bahia Santa Maria 235 nautical miles down the coast. As we spent the extra night in San Qunitin our time here was too short. Did not have the time to go to the night of the dead celebration in town as I did last year. Did make it to the beach party and yes did drink and eat too much. 700 people on a beach with similar intention is a sight. Was able to put faces with the voices I heard on the radio. Lots of chatter on the radio as the long night of watches passes.
Was able to fix the jammed mizzen halyard using climbing gear. Pulled the mizzen down the other night in big swells and a rolling boat and the halyard was pulled sideways. The other problem is a small fuel leak in the engine room which will take much more fixing. A job for La Paz I expect.
The next passage will be 2 nights and 3 days. To be honest I would like better a slower passage down the outside of Ba Ha. There are anchorages we are missing. But, this venue made it easier to find crew. Doubt I will ever come this way again on my own boat, and might try to find myself a crew position in the future for a more slow transit. This time I have a commitment to my crew and Dean who will meet me in Cabo to keep on the schedule. If it was not for that, I would bag the Ha Ha. At the same time I am having fun.
If anyone reading this wants to talk about the pros and cons lets do so.
November 1, 2009
Wow, November is here. We have been on the water for 2 months, and 1 more to go to see Harp again. This is the second of 2 nights offshore traveling to Bahia Santa Maria. Last night was perfect except for a lack of enough wind and Harp being here. Smooth seas, almost full moon, warm weather (almost T shirt and shorts) and the twinkling lights all around of fellow sailors. What a splendid night to remember. Played Hawaiian slack key guitar on the I Pod ™, and stood and looked around. Was not a night to sit in the cockpit and just watch to make sure the windvane was steering the correct course. Based upon the radio chatter, I was not the only one with this feeling of a special night. When I wonder why I put up with the confused seas, cold nights and windless days, I need to remember last night.
November 2, 2009
Anchored in Bahis Santa Maria. Wish I could stay here for a week and walk the sands, climb the hills and play Frisbee ™ with sea dollars. They are the biggest I have ever seen anywhere and more plentiful than at Westport Washington. At night the anchorage is full of all the anchor lights of the fleet as there is no city here. What a lonely, beautiful place is Santa Maria.
November 5, 2009
Should be in Cabo in about 4 hours. Can see Capo Falso with Cabo just around the corner. Another special night last night. My watch was 12 -3 and I did not want it to end. Other sailors with thousands of miles under their keels, said on the radio this morning that they can’t remember a better night and that it would go into their memory bank as one of the special ones. Occasionally there is a meeting of seas, wind, weather and attitude that together is bigger and more emotional than the separate parts. We have had some of those the last few nights. It has little to do with safety, distance from land or the completion of your journey.. It is a connection with the boat, the seas and the universe that I am not poet enough to describe. I just enjoy it and leave the rest to the wordsmiths. Saw my first green flash the night of the 4th. Just as the sun disappeared, a lava lamp like bubble of green bubbled to the surface for a nanosecond. Seeing your first akes you look harder for the other surprises that the heavens have in store for you.
Tried to post something three times and the Howard Johnson web site would not allow me to do it. The nerve of them!! Hopefully Harp was able to post something for me. Today is the big party at West Marine where all of us (700) to meet the folks. Tomorrow is the big day to leave at 1100.
October 27, 2009
Put our anchor down not in Turtle bay a expected, but rather in Bahia San Quentin. There was a rather big swell out in the pacific and all but the hard core racers came here. It was a bit snotty especially with the swell lifting and transom and constantly spilling all of the wind out of the sails. Rock and rolling that made both of the crew quite sea sick. Based upon prior experience I went out of my way to remind them of the importance of both eating and drinking even if that is only a temporary input to their body. At the same time I have to remember that I m not their keeper and as adults they can ans should make good decisions. That is something they both do, but I am “always the pop” in my own mind.
We had to motor 1/3rd of the way the San Quintin, as the wind finally went away (at a level that will move Allymar 12 knots). I look forward to getting to cruising grounds where I can leave or stay according to my and not a schedule of the rally. Positive notes on being able to finally get the ham radio working and can communicate with other ham’s and SSB users on boats. The problem was a loose connection and not a big grounding or antenna/counterpoise problem.
Writing this as we passage to Turtle Bay. Great winds although the swells are still present. Bad news in that a J 120 was attacked by a whale as they left San Qunitin and as a result JWorld was lost. All 5 hands were picked up by Coast Guard chopper and are safe and well in San Diego. They had 7 minutes to get off the boat into the liferaft, set off the EPRIP and had a horrible time in a swamped and wet raft. First boat lost in the history of the Ha Ha. Puts a note of caution and awareness of the fact we are in a less forgiving environment that on land and must be ready to make decisions that are and can be lifesaving. My heart goes out to them.
As for this moment I was just out on deck, the moon is out, looking down the swells is like a canyon that moves taking you with it. Swells are scheduled to be 20-25t on 12-14 second intervals and they are that.
October 30. 2009
Turtle Bay, lights of all the anchored boats as backdrop to warm windy Mexican nights. We will leave tomorrow for Bahia Santa Maria 235 nautical miles down the coast. As we spent the extra night in San Qunitin our time here was too short. Did not have the time to go to the night of the dead celebration in town as I did last year. Did make it to the beach party and yes did drink and eat too much. 700 people on a beach with similar intention is a sight. Was able to put faces with the voices I heard on the radio. Lots of chatter on the radio as the long night of watches passes.
Was able to fix the jammed mizzen halyard using climbing gear. Pulled the mizzen down the other night in big swells and a rolling boat and the halyard was pulled sideways. The other problem is a small fuel leak in the engine room which will take much more fixing. A job for La Paz I expect.
The next passage will be 2 nights and 3 days. To be honest I would like better a slower passage down the outside of Ba Ha. There are anchorages we are missing. But, this venue made it easier to find crew. Doubt I will ever come this way again on my own boat, and might try to find myself a crew position in the future for a more slow transit. This time I have a commitment to my crew and Dean who will meet me in Cabo to keep on the schedule. If it was not for that, I would bag the Ha Ha. At the same time I am having fun.
If anyone reading this wants to talk about the pros and cons lets do so.
November 1, 2009
Wow, November is here. We have been on the water for 2 months, and 1 more to go to see Harp again. This is the second of 2 nights offshore traveling to Bahia Santa Maria. Last night was perfect except for a lack of enough wind and Harp being here. Smooth seas, almost full moon, warm weather (almost T shirt and shorts) and the twinkling lights all around of fellow sailors. What a splendid night to remember. Played Hawaiian slack key guitar on the I Pod ™, and stood and looked around. Was not a night to sit in the cockpit and just watch to make sure the windvane was steering the correct course. Based upon the radio chatter, I was not the only one with this feeling of a special night. When I wonder why I put up with the confused seas, cold nights and windless days, I need to remember last night.
November 2, 2009
Anchored in Bahis Santa Maria. Wish I could stay here for a week and walk the sands, climb the hills and play Frisbee ™ with sea dollars. They are the biggest I have ever seen anywhere and more plentiful than at Westport Washington. At night the anchorage is full of all the anchor lights of the fleet as there is no city here. What a lonely, beautiful place is Santa Maria.
November 5, 2009
Should be in Cabo in about 4 hours. Can see Capo Falso with Cabo just around the corner. Another special night last night. My watch was 12 -3 and I did not want it to end. Other sailors with thousands of miles under their keels, said on the radio this morning that they can’t remember a better night and that it would go into their memory bank as one of the special ones. Occasionally there is a meeting of seas, wind, weather and attitude that together is bigger and more emotional than the separate parts. We have had some of those the last few nights. It has little to do with safety, distance from land or the completion of your journey.. It is a connection with the boat, the seas and the universe that I am not poet enough to describe. I just enjoy it and leave the rest to the wordsmiths. Saw my first green flash the night of the 4th. Just as the sun disappeared, a lava lamp like bubble of green bubbled to the surface for a nanosecond. Seeing your first akes you look harder for the other surprises that the heavens have in store for you.
Hello from Cabo We nade it didn't we
October 25, 2009
Tried to post something three times and the Howard Johnson web site would not allow me to do it. The nerve of them!! Hopefully Harp was able to post something for me. Today is the big party at West Marine where all of us (700) to meet the folks. Tomorrow is the big day to leave at 1100.
October 27, 2009
Put our anchor down not in Turtle bay a expected, but rather in Bahia San Quentin. There was a rather big swell out in the pacific and all but the hard core racers came here. It was a bit snotty especially with the swell lifting and transom and constantly spilling all of the wind out of the sails. Rock and rolling that made both of the crew quite sea sick. Based upon prior experience I went out of my way to remind them of the importance of both eating and drinking even if that is only a temporary input to their body. At the same time I have to remember that I m not their keeper and as adults they can ans should make good decisions. That is something they both do, but I am “always the pop” in my own mind.
We had to motor 1/3rd of the way the San Quintin, as the wind finally went away (at a level that will move Allymar 12 knots). I look forward to getting to cruising grounds where I can leave or stay according to my and not a schedule of the rally. Positive notes on being able to finally get the ham radio working and can communicate with other ham’s and SSB users on boats. The problem was a loose connection and not a big grounding or antenna/counterpoise problem.
Writing this as we passage to Turtle Bay. Great winds although the swells are still present. Bad news in that a J 120 was attacked by a whale as they left San Qunitin and as a result JWorld was lost. All 5 hands were picked up by Coast Guard chopper and are safe and well in San Diego. They had 7 minutes to get off the boat into the liferaft, set off the EPRIP and had a horrible time in a swamped and wet raft. First boat lost in the history of the Ha Ha. Puts a note of caution and awareness of the fact we are in a less forgiving environment that on land and must be ready to make decisions that are and can be lifesaving. My heart goes out to them.
As for this moment I was just out on deck, the moon is out, looking down the swells is like a canyon that moves taking you with it. Swells are scheduled to be 20-25t on 12-14 second intervals and they are that.
October 30. 2009
Turtle Bay, lights of all the anchored boats as backdrop to warm windy Mexican nights. We will leave tomorrow for Bahia Santa Maria 235 nautical miles down the coast. As we spent the extra night in San Qunitin our time here was too short. Did not have the time to go to the night of the dead celebration in town as I did last year. Did make it to the beach party and yes did drink and eat too much. 700 people on a beach with similar intention is a sight. Was able to put faces with the voices I heard on the radio. Lots of chatter on the radio as the long night of watches passes.
Was able to fix the jammed mizzen halyard using climbing gear. Pulled the mizzen down the other night in big swells and a rolling boat and the halyard was pulled sideways. The other problem is a small fuel leak in the engine room which will take much more fixing. A job for La Paz I expect.
The next passage will be 2 nights and 3 days. To be honest I would like better a slower passage down the outside of Ba Ha. There are anchorages we are missing. But, this venue made it easier to find crew. Doubt I will ever come this way again on my own boat, and might try to find myself a crew position in the future for a more slow transit. This time I have a commitment to my crew and Dean who will meet me in Cabo to keep on the schedule. If it was not for that, I would bag the Ha Ha. At the same time I am having fun.
If anyone reading this wants to talk about the pros and cons lets do so.
November 1, 2009
Wow, November is here. We have been on the water for 2 months, and 1 more to go to see Harp again. This is the second of 2 nights offshore traveling to Bahia Santa Maria. Last night was perfect except for a lack of enough wind and Harp being here. Smooth seas, almost full moon, warm weather (almost T shirt and shorts) and the twinkling lights all around of fellow sailors. What a splendid night to remember. Played Hawaiian slack key guitar on the I Pod ™, and stood and looked around. Was not a night to sit in the cockpit and just watch to make sure the windvane was steering the correct course. Based upon the radio chatter, I was not the only one with this feeling of a special night. When I wonder why I put up with the confused seas, cold nights and windless days, I need to remember last night.
November 2, 2009
Anchored in Bahis Santa Maria. Wish I could stay here for a week and walk the sands, climb the hills and play Frisbee ™ with sea dollars. They are the biggest I have ever seen anywhere and more plentiful than at Westport Washington. At night the anchorage is full of all the anchor lights of the fleet as there is no city here. What a lonely, beautiful place is Santa Maria.
November 5, 2009
Should be in Cabo in about 4 hours. Can see Capo Falso with Cabo just around the corner. Another special night last night. My watch was 12 -3 and I did not want it to end. Other sailors with thousands of miles under their keels, said on the radio this morning that they can’t remember a better night and that it would go into their memory bank as one of the special ones. Occasionally there is a meeting of seas, wind, weather and attitude that together is bigger and more emotional than the separate parts. We have had some of those the last few nights. It has little to do with safety, distance from land or the completion of your journey.. It is a connection with the boat, the seas and the universe that I am not poet enough to describe. I just enjoy it and leave the rest to the wordsmiths. Saw my first green flash the night of the 4th. Just as the sun disappeared, a lava lamp like bubble of green bubbled to the surface for a nanosecond. Seeing your first akes you look harder for the other surprises that the heavens have in store for you.
Tried to post something three times and the Howard Johnson web site would not allow me to do it. The nerve of them!! Hopefully Harp was able to post something for me. Today is the big party at West Marine where all of us (700) to meet the folks. Tomorrow is the big day to leave at 1100.
October 27, 2009
Put our anchor down not in Turtle bay a expected, but rather in Bahia San Quentin. There was a rather big swell out in the pacific and all but the hard core racers came here. It was a bit snotty especially with the swell lifting and transom and constantly spilling all of the wind out of the sails. Rock and rolling that made both of the crew quite sea sick. Based upon prior experience I went out of my way to remind them of the importance of both eating and drinking even if that is only a temporary input to their body. At the same time I have to remember that I m not their keeper and as adults they can ans should make good decisions. That is something they both do, but I am “always the pop” in my own mind.
We had to motor 1/3rd of the way the San Quintin, as the wind finally went away (at a level that will move Allymar 12 knots). I look forward to getting to cruising grounds where I can leave or stay according to my and not a schedule of the rally. Positive notes on being able to finally get the ham radio working and can communicate with other ham’s and SSB users on boats. The problem was a loose connection and not a big grounding or antenna/counterpoise problem.
Writing this as we passage to Turtle Bay. Great winds although the swells are still present. Bad news in that a J 120 was attacked by a whale as they left San Qunitin and as a result JWorld was lost. All 5 hands were picked up by Coast Guard chopper and are safe and well in San Diego. They had 7 minutes to get off the boat into the liferaft, set off the EPRIP and had a horrible time in a swamped and wet raft. First boat lost in the history of the Ha Ha. Puts a note of caution and awareness of the fact we are in a less forgiving environment that on land and must be ready to make decisions that are and can be lifesaving. My heart goes out to them.
As for this moment I was just out on deck, the moon is out, looking down the swells is like a canyon that moves taking you with it. Swells are scheduled to be 20-25t on 12-14 second intervals and they are that.
October 30. 2009
Turtle Bay, lights of all the anchored boats as backdrop to warm windy Mexican nights. We will leave tomorrow for Bahia Santa Maria 235 nautical miles down the coast. As we spent the extra night in San Qunitin our time here was too short. Did not have the time to go to the night of the dead celebration in town as I did last year. Did make it to the beach party and yes did drink and eat too much. 700 people on a beach with similar intention is a sight. Was able to put faces with the voices I heard on the radio. Lots of chatter on the radio as the long night of watches passes.
Was able to fix the jammed mizzen halyard using climbing gear. Pulled the mizzen down the other night in big swells and a rolling boat and the halyard was pulled sideways. The other problem is a small fuel leak in the engine room which will take much more fixing. A job for La Paz I expect.
The next passage will be 2 nights and 3 days. To be honest I would like better a slower passage down the outside of Ba Ha. There are anchorages we are missing. But, this venue made it easier to find crew. Doubt I will ever come this way again on my own boat, and might try to find myself a crew position in the future for a more slow transit. This time I have a commitment to my crew and Dean who will meet me in Cabo to keep on the schedule. If it was not for that, I would bag the Ha Ha. At the same time I am having fun.
If anyone reading this wants to talk about the pros and cons lets do so.
November 1, 2009
Wow, November is here. We have been on the water for 2 months, and 1 more to go to see Harp again. This is the second of 2 nights offshore traveling to Bahia Santa Maria. Last night was perfect except for a lack of enough wind and Harp being here. Smooth seas, almost full moon, warm weather (almost T shirt and shorts) and the twinkling lights all around of fellow sailors. What a splendid night to remember. Played Hawaiian slack key guitar on the I Pod ™, and stood and looked around. Was not a night to sit in the cockpit and just watch to make sure the windvane was steering the correct course. Based upon the radio chatter, I was not the only one with this feeling of a special night. When I wonder why I put up with the confused seas, cold nights and windless days, I need to remember last night.
November 2, 2009
Anchored in Bahis Santa Maria. Wish I could stay here for a week and walk the sands, climb the hills and play Frisbee ™ with sea dollars. They are the biggest I have ever seen anywhere and more plentiful than at Westport Washington. At night the anchorage is full of all the anchor lights of the fleet as there is no city here. What a lonely, beautiful place is Santa Maria.
November 5, 2009
Should be in Cabo in about 4 hours. Can see Capo Falso with Cabo just around the corner. Another special night last night. My watch was 12 -3 and I did not want it to end. Other sailors with thousands of miles under their keels, said on the radio this morning that they can’t remember a better night and that it would go into their memory bank as one of the special ones. Occasionally there is a meeting of seas, wind, weather and attitude that together is bigger and more emotional than the separate parts. We have had some of those the last few nights. It has little to do with safety, distance from land or the completion of your journey.. It is a connection with the boat, the seas and the universe that I am not poet enough to describe. I just enjoy it and leave the rest to the wordsmiths. Saw my first green flash the night of the 4th. Just as the sun disappeared, a lava lamp like bubble of green bubbled to the surface for a nanosecond. Seeing your first akes you look harder for the other surprises that the heavens have in store for you.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
from San Diego via Silverton
Ken has been unable to access the blog for some reason. He asks that I let all you dedicated blog readers know that he is in San Diego, and will be leaving Monday the 16th with the HaHa group to Mexico.
Their first stop is Turtle Bay, then Bahia Santa Maria, then to Cabo San Lucas. He anticipates that they will arrive in Cabo November 5th or 6th.
He plans to post from Cabo.
He has had fun in San Diego, but like everyone else he is looking forward to getting on the water.
Harp--
Their first stop is Turtle Bay, then Bahia Santa Maria, then to Cabo San Lucas. He anticipates that they will arrive in Cabo November 5th or 6th.
He plans to post from Cabo.
He has had fun in San Diego, but like everyone else he is looking forward to getting on the water.
Harp--
Still here in San Diego awaiting our departure on monday. I have really enjoyed the cith and it does not have the flavcor I expected. The traffic where I am is not that bad, and I have been able to visit may attractions without problems. Balboa park is a lot of fun and delivers a lot of educational bang for the buck. The zoo on the other hand was too expensive. If I lived here there are many discounts availiable that I could not get. Downtown is a lot of fun at night with the gaslight sectioon the best. warm temp and so far not much wind. We have our fingers crossed.
I am amazed at thye amount of money my fellow boaters are spending. Especially of the fluff of boating and not just the basics. it seems that everyone has airconditioning, a freezer, two watermakers etc. Boat does stand for BrerakOut Another Thousand
I am amazed at thye amount of money my fellow boaters are spending. Especially of the fluff of boating and not just the basics. it seems that everyone has airconditioning, a freezer, two watermakers etc. Boat does stand for BrerakOut Another Thousand
October 24, 2009
I have had a very good time here in San Diego. Went to Balboa Park. Looked into going to he park but the cost was too much. Toured an aircraft carrier (really interesting). Hiked at Point Loma. Enjoyed the gas light section of downtown at night. etc, etc. There is quite a bit to do here and it doesnot have the usual flavor of a big city, rather a series of neighborhoods etc.
The final fitting out for the departure on monday seems to have sparked a furry of last minute rigging, equipment, electrinics, cleaning and most of all new and varied purchases in the marine stores. Boat does stand for (Break out another thousand
The final fitting out for the departure on monday seems to have sparked a furry of last minute rigging, equipment, electrinics, cleaning and most of all new and varied purchases in the marine stores. Boat does stand for (Break out another thousand
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Made it to San Diego
Sailed into San Diego yesterday morning in very dense fog. Sure love the GPS and plotter.
Docked at the police dock with many other sailboats. Time to share yarns and stories. Hope to have the opportunity to see SD and take some pictures.
Aloha
Ken
Docked at the police dock with many other sailboats. Time to share yarns and stories. Hope to have the opportunity to see SD and take some pictures.
Aloha
Ken
Thursday, October 15, 2009
So Cal
Waht a wonderful world we live in
Arrived in Newport Beach (14th) yesterdayafter a grand sail from Catalina. Wind from 110 and sailing on a 60 degree course with 20 knots. Whoopie as the speed reached the high 6’s, which is pretty good for a heavy displacement Allymar. Can honestly say that I have never seen so many sailboats in 1 place as here. Must be the sailing capitol of the west coast. There also have a good bus system as I have to go to Costa Mesa to get a new impeller as I needed to replace the existing one as we were leaving Catalina. The impeller is the rubber wheel that pumps raw seawater through the heat exchanger to cool the diesel and is very important. One always looks to see if water is coming out with the exhaust when running the diesel. I have a good amount of spare parts with the impeller at the top of the list.
Keep seeing new and previously seen Ha Ha boats and always good to talk with them and share stories. The big one this year is the lack of wind (along with gales that make sailing very difficult) and all of the motoring everyone is doing. Seems to be related to an eastern pacific el-nino. Wonder what is in store off Ba Ha?We continue to have a great time cruising and look forward to arriving in San Diego on the 17th. We keep on meeting more and more Ha Ha boatsd and share stories and dreams.
Tried to call the mens group last night but was unseccessful. Miss those guys.
Leaving for san Diego tonight. Should be a 14 hour slog with the motor on as there is no real wind forecasted for the next 4 days. Might as well go south as I have mostly seen what there is to see here and there is are much more options in San Diego.
See ya soon
Whistle up winds for us please
Ken
Arrived in Newport Beach (14th) yesterdayafter a grand sail from Catalina. Wind from 110 and sailing on a 60 degree course with 20 knots. Whoopie as the speed reached the high 6’s, which is pretty good for a heavy displacement Allymar. Can honestly say that I have never seen so many sailboats in 1 place as here. Must be the sailing capitol of the west coast. There also have a good bus system as I have to go to Costa Mesa to get a new impeller as I needed to replace the existing one as we were leaving Catalina. The impeller is the rubber wheel that pumps raw seawater through the heat exchanger to cool the diesel and is very important. One always looks to see if water is coming out with the exhaust when running the diesel. I have a good amount of spare parts with the impeller at the top of the list.
Keep seeing new and previously seen Ha Ha boats and always good to talk with them and share stories. The big one this year is the lack of wind (along with gales that make sailing very difficult) and all of the motoring everyone is doing. Seems to be related to an eastern pacific el-nino. Wonder what is in store off Ba Ha?We continue to have a great time cruising and look forward to arriving in San Diego on the 17th. We keep on meeting more and more Ha Ha boatsd and share stories and dreams.
Tried to call the mens group last night but was unseccessful. Miss those guys.
Leaving for san Diego tonight. Should be a 14 hour slog with the motor on as there is no real wind forecasted for the next 4 days. Might as well go south as I have mostly seen what there is to see here and there is are much more options in San Diego.
See ya soon
Whistle up winds for us please
Ken
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Catalina Island
Good morning to all my friends
I am sending this from Catalina Island on the 11 th of October. We arriver here yesterday and will be leaving for either the other side of the island or Newport Beach tomorrow as a southwersterlie is coming. Very weird to be around people especiallyt tourists at this resort like place. No stores, but there is a bar and restruant. Everyone in shorts and designer sunglasses. I will attempt to download some pictures if the battery on the computer is charged sufficiently.
We continue to have a great time cruising and look forward to arriving in San Diego on the 17th. We keep on meeting more and more Ha Ha boatsd and share stories and dreams.
I am sending this from Catalina Island on the 11 th of October. We arriver here yesterday and will be leaving for either the other side of the island or Newport Beach tomorrow as a southwersterlie is coming. Very weird to be around people especiallyt tourists at this resort like place. No stores, but there is a bar and restruant. Everyone in shorts and designer sunglasses. I will attempt to download some pictures if the battery on the computer is charged sufficiently.
We continue to have a great time cruising and look forward to arriving in San Diego on the 17th. We keep on meeting more and more Ha Ha boatsd and share stories and dreams.
I tried to write as often as I could during my time away from the internet and cell phones
September 19, 2009
Left the hustle and bustle of the tourist town of Morro Bay to sail to Port San Luis. Finally saw almost all of the famous rock as we left. Legend has it that an early Spanish explorer felt it resembled the turbin or a Moor and named the rock. Spent all day in the fog without wind and had a grand sail only the last hour or so. Anchored off of Avila Beach and finally feel that I am in SoCal. Not much in Avila Beach as it is a beach town for San Luis Obisbo. Swimming, beach volleyball and the usual suspects. Had a pier to assist the trip to shore, with a ladder to climb up. Was able to stretch my legs some with a walk on the bike path and one to the lighthouse. 5 other cruising sailboats in the anchorage with us, all headed south.
September 23, 2009
Left at 2100 last night to sail to San Miguel Island. Wet and drippy night with the NW wind coming up after midnight. Ran the reefed main and staysail as night is not the time to put up the down wind sails.
Arrived at about 1420 to Cuyler Harbor and anchored with another boat. Plan was to go ashore and explore, when the winds really picked up and the dingy could not make it. Hard to believe that there can be this much chop and surf with being close to the shore and a mountain between us and the wind, We will be doing an anchor watch hourly tonight and check for chafe and dragging. Put out a second anchor on loose line just in case the primary CQR lets go. With better weather we will hike tomorrow and explore this national park property.
A trip of diversity and changes. Fog, sun, wind, calms, hot and cold. Cities, small towns and isolated anchorages. Placed to go ashore and places we cant due to the weather. Watching the sun come up through the fog this morning and feeling the heat warm a chilled body. Seeing 1 star and than the full star field appear as the fog lifted off the northern California coast. Looking at the new moon the other night the same time as Harp was in Silverton.. Adapting to the differing conditions that we have no control over once we have made a decision to do a passage.
September 24, 2009
Left San Miguel Island this morning and had a light wind run to Johnsaon Lee on the south side of Santa Rosa Island. Calm and smooth, warm and able to take showers in the sun. Bummer in that we re not able to go ashore. Combination of poor shore approach and the hunt on the island which has closed most of the island to visit. Met once again with Tom and Kim on Champagne who helped my sleep with fantastic margaritas.
September 25 2009.
Arrived in Bechers Bay on the east end of Santa Rosa island. Beachers Bay, northwest anchorage. Quite windy (downslope) and was aloso unable to go ashore as the parks dept is rebuilding the pier and I was asked to remove myself and the dingy ASAP. Something about my not reading the notices to mariners. Who ever reads those things anyway. Wild ride with Tom and Kim in his fast dingy with an unscheduled test of his transom when we hit a patch of kelp at full speed. The margaritas helped. Look forward to tomorrow as the weather is supposed to moderate. Hot chocolate night and thinking of family and loved ones. Taking the world as it happens and making the best of each opportunity.
September 26, 2009
Wow, what a day on the island. Winds out of the south allowed us to motor the dingy 1 ½ miles across the bay and land at the head of the canyon. Took a great walk on the canyon trail with wren calls, deep sightings and grand vistas. Saw a rare Santo Rosa Torrey Pine that only grows here and a type of lily that is special to here. Found a campground with hot running water, what a wonderful opportunity to clean up. The park rangers work Tue to Tue and love it out here. They would have taken us on a guided hike but needed greater numbers and were also limited in areas due to the hunt. The ranch family will vacate the island the end of 2011 and at that point the parks service will manage the entire island. Santa Rosa has been overgrazed for years and the chances of it ever being restored top pre white settlement is marginal. They are and will continue to eradicate non native species of animals and plans as possible. Actually the hunt is needed as deer and elk are not native. The question will be, who will eat the nonnative grasses endemic here now. Reminds me of the Steens in eastern Oregon with the removal of cattle from the canyons. Hard to believe that this island once was covered with oaks and had a whole different ecology. What a mess we civilized whites have done to the earth.
Just made it back to Allymar before the northwesterlies blew up in out face as we crossed back over the bay in the dingy with a 2 horse outboard. Glad we left the landing when we did. Another rocky windy night in wind alley.
September 27, 2009
Another night in windy alley was correct. Blew hard all night and when I did anchor watch at 0200 heard the people on the small boat just to SB talking about their anchor and how they were concerned. Left at 0845 this morning and there is no wind and we are motoring in dense fog. Visibility about 100 yards.
September 30, 2009
We all were tired of the constant winds and decided to leave for Santa Cruz island earlier than planned. We have been anchored at Coches Prietos (named for the black pig or boar that used to roam the island before the nature conservancy eliminated the pest). Coches is on the south side of the island and offers excellent protection from the 25 with gusts to 35 knot winds blowing from the NW. Another benefit is that the island soaks up all the moisture in the wind and the decks are not so wet in the morning. If he wind blows from the east and there is no dew on the deck in the morning we must leave for the other side of the island as the Santa Anna’s would be coming. There has been a steady stream of other boats coming and going from here although there are only 2 of us left since yesterday morning. I expect everyone is hunkered down waiting out the weather in nooks and crannies here on the south side. Took a couple of good hikes to the top of the first line of hills and can’t go much farther as the central valley of Santa Cruz is protected. Met a sailor the other night who has been around the globe on his J160 4 times since retirement. He will be joining the HaHa and I hope to talk to him more.
Sandy bottom with the anchor visible from the surface, occasional kelp growing to the surface and water almost warm enough to swim. Colin was able to spear 2 perch the last 2 nights and the variety was appreciated in our diet. We plan to go to Smuggler cove tomorrow for a change of scenery, and maybe the north side of the island before going to Catalina. He warm weather remain our partner. October is tomorrow, wow, we have seen so much in such a short period of time,
October 2, 2009
We have decided to remain at Cochos Prietes as there is a gale blowing on the north side of Santa Cruz Island. So we have to stay here is what is actually a paradise of a spot. The water is clear and the weather except for the inability to go to the north is great. We have easterly winds in the morning and they slowly veer to the NW as the day passes. The other morning was rather hectic with a small santa anna blowing out of the east and boaters leaving the anchorage with calls to us that we HAD to leave as danger was coming. I checked the weather and determined from the forecast and weather buoys at Anacapa Island (east of here) that the blow should be over by noon and we should be ok with two anchors out. Glad I was right as it turned out as planned. Hard decision to make with panicked skippers leaving. Then about 1100 I heard a skipper talking out coming in here, and it was our friends on Champagne (Tom and Kim). Good to see them again. Thanks for their call to Harp earlier to give her a report on us. Expect to stay her a while as the weather is supposed to pick up over the weekend
October 4, 2009 1500
Quite a gale we have been in. Manana just reported that the winds on their boat are gusting to 50 knots here in the anchorage and they are going to motor to the anchorage just to the east (Albert’s) as it gives better shelter from west winds. As we have two anchors out and to pull them would be difficult we have decided to remain in Coches. We will not be the only boat remaining here. All we can do is rest and wait it out. We do frequent chafe checks and everything looks good. Sure glad we are on the south side of the island, as the north side must be a real scary p[ace.
October 5, 2009 0900
The winds are out of the NW, and only at 15 knots. Time to leave for the other side of the island. Bob motored by as he was leaving and we both were missing the “geezer” time that the last two days of gale prevented. It is always good to spend time with my peers and away from the “kids”. Expect to go to the east side of the island today and see some new sights.
October 6. 2009 2100
Anchored in Little Scorpion anchorage on the east side. Spent the day yesterday hiking, getting water for Allymar’s tanks, and having black label with some geezers on shore. Retired school teachers from Visalia who are camping on the island for 3 days. There is a visitors center here with very interesting information on the geology and history of Santa Cruz. Another place we took from prior inhabitants who lived here for 13000 years. There are some of the most concentrated volcanic sea caves here and the geology is dynamic. Will get more water tomorrow and limit showers and start washing dishes in salt water. Another Oregon boat pulled into the anchorage in the evening, Stepping Stone out of Newport. They will be doing the HaHa also. Family of 4, with 2 daughters of +/- 5 and 16. Hope for another grand day tomorrow.October 9, 2009. In route for Catalina Island. NW winds and a following sea which makes for a rolly ride. Looking forward to arriving at another place. Santa Cruz was fantastic, with the sea caves, foxes, kelp beads and hikes
Fair winds
Ken
September 19, 2009
Left the hustle and bustle of the tourist town of Morro Bay to sail to Port San Luis. Finally saw almost all of the famous rock as we left. Legend has it that an early Spanish explorer felt it resembled the turbin or a Moor and named the rock. Spent all day in the fog without wind and had a grand sail only the last hour or so. Anchored off of Avila Beach and finally feel that I am in SoCal. Not much in Avila Beach as it is a beach town for San Luis Obisbo. Swimming, beach volleyball and the usual suspects. Had a pier to assist the trip to shore, with a ladder to climb up. Was able to stretch my legs some with a walk on the bike path and one to the lighthouse. 5 other cruising sailboats in the anchorage with us, all headed south.
September 23, 2009
Left at 2100 last night to sail to San Miguel Island. Wet and drippy night with the NW wind coming up after midnight. Ran the reefed main and staysail as night is not the time to put up the down wind sails.
Arrived at about 1420 to Cuyler Harbor and anchored with another boat. Plan was to go ashore and explore, when the winds really picked up and the dingy could not make it. Hard to believe that there can be this much chop and surf with being close to the shore and a mountain between us and the wind, We will be doing an anchor watch hourly tonight and check for chafe and dragging. Put out a second anchor on loose line just in case the primary CQR lets go. With better weather we will hike tomorrow and explore this national park property.
A trip of diversity and changes. Fog, sun, wind, calms, hot and cold. Cities, small towns and isolated anchorages. Placed to go ashore and places we cant due to the weather. Watching the sun come up through the fog this morning and feeling the heat warm a chilled body. Seeing 1 star and than the full star field appear as the fog lifted off the northern California coast. Looking at the new moon the other night the same time as Harp was in Silverton.. Adapting to the differing conditions that we have no control over once we have made a decision to do a passage.
September 24, 2009
Left San Miguel Island this morning and had a light wind run to Johnsaon Lee on the south side of Santa Rosa Island. Calm and smooth, warm and able to take showers in the sun. Bummer in that we re not able to go ashore. Combination of poor shore approach and the hunt on the island which has closed most of the island to visit. Met once again with Tom and Kim on Champagne who helped my sleep with fantastic margaritas.
September 25 2009.
Arrived in Bechers Bay on the east end of Santa Rosa island. Beachers Bay, northwest anchorage. Quite windy (downslope) and was aloso unable to go ashore as the parks dept is rebuilding the pier and I was asked to remove myself and the dingy ASAP. Something about my not reading the notices to mariners. Who ever reads those things anyway. Wild ride with Tom and Kim in his fast dingy with an unscheduled test of his transom when we hit a patch of kelp at full speed. The margaritas helped. Look forward to tomorrow as the weather is supposed to moderate. Hot chocolate night and thinking of family and loved ones. Taking the world as it happens and making the best of each opportunity.
September 26, 2009
Wow, what a day on the island. Winds out of the south allowed us to motor the dingy 1 ½ miles across the bay and land at the head of the canyon. Took a great walk on the canyon trail with wren calls, deep sightings and grand vistas. Saw a rare Santo Rosa Torrey Pine that only grows here and a type of lily that is special to here. Found a campground with hot running water, what a wonderful opportunity to clean up. The park rangers work Tue to Tue and love it out here. They would have taken us on a guided hike but needed greater numbers and were also limited in areas due to the hunt. The ranch family will vacate the island the end of 2011 and at that point the parks service will manage the entire island. Santa Rosa has been overgrazed for years and the chances of it ever being restored top pre white settlement is marginal. They are and will continue to eradicate non native species of animals and plans as possible. Actually the hunt is needed as deer and elk are not native. The question will be, who will eat the nonnative grasses endemic here now. Reminds me of the Steens in eastern Oregon with the removal of cattle from the canyons. Hard to believe that this island once was covered with oaks and had a whole different ecology. What a mess we civilized whites have done to the earth.
Just made it back to Allymar before the northwesterlies blew up in out face as we crossed back over the bay in the dingy with a 2 horse outboard. Glad we left the landing when we did. Another rocky windy night in wind alley.
September 27, 2009
Another night in windy alley was correct. Blew hard all night and when I did anchor watch at 0200 heard the people on the small boat just to SB talking about their anchor and how they were concerned. Left at 0845 this morning and there is no wind and we are motoring in dense fog. Visibility about 100 yards.
September 30, 2009
We all were tired of the constant winds and decided to leave for Santa Cruz island earlier than planned. We have been anchored at Coches Prietos (named for the black pig or boar that used to roam the island before the nature conservancy eliminated the pest). Coches is on the south side of the island and offers excellent protection from the 25 with gusts to 35 knot winds blowing from the NW. Another benefit is that the island soaks up all the moisture in the wind and the decks are not so wet in the morning. If he wind blows from the east and there is no dew on the deck in the morning we must leave for the other side of the island as the Santa Anna’s would be coming. There has been a steady stream of other boats coming and going from here although there are only 2 of us left since yesterday morning. I expect everyone is hunkered down waiting out the weather in nooks and crannies here on the south side. Took a couple of good hikes to the top of the first line of hills and can’t go much farther as the central valley of Santa Cruz is protected. Met a sailor the other night who has been around the globe on his J160 4 times since retirement. He will be joining the HaHa and I hope to talk to him more.
Sandy bottom with the anchor visible from the surface, occasional kelp growing to the surface and water almost warm enough to swim. Colin was able to spear 2 perch the last 2 nights and the variety was appreciated in our diet. We plan to go to Smuggler cove tomorrow for a change of scenery, and maybe the north side of the island before going to Catalina. He warm weather remain our partner. October is tomorrow, wow, we have seen so much in such a short period of time,
October 2, 2009
We have decided to remain at Cochos Prietes as there is a gale blowing on the north side of Santa Cruz Island. So we have to stay here is what is actually a paradise of a spot. The water is clear and the weather except for the inability to go to the north is great. We have easterly winds in the morning and they slowly veer to the NW as the day passes. The other morning was rather hectic with a small santa anna blowing out of the east and boaters leaving the anchorage with calls to us that we HAD to leave as danger was coming. I checked the weather and determined from the forecast and weather buoys at Anacapa Island (east of here) that the blow should be over by noon and we should be ok with two anchors out. Glad I was right as it turned out as planned. Hard decision to make with panicked skippers leaving. Then about 1100 I heard a skipper talking out coming in here, and it was our friends on Champagne (Tom and Kim). Good to see them again. Thanks for their call to Harp earlier to give her a report on us. Expect to stay her a while as the weather is supposed to pick up over the weekend
October 4, 2009 1500
Quite a gale we have been in. Manana just reported that the winds on their boat are gusting to 50 knots here in the anchorage and they are going to motor to the anchorage just to the east (Albert’s) as it gives better shelter from west winds. As we have two anchors out and to pull them would be difficult we have decided to remain in Coches. We will not be the only boat remaining here. All we can do is rest and wait it out. We do frequent chafe checks and everything looks good. Sure glad we are on the south side of the island, as the north side must be a real scary p[ace.
October 5, 2009 0900
The winds are out of the NW, and only at 15 knots. Time to leave for the other side of the island. Bob motored by as he was leaving and we both were missing the “geezer” time that the last two days of gale prevented. It is always good to spend time with my peers and away from the “kids”. Expect to go to the east side of the island today and see some new sights.
October 6. 2009 2100
Anchored in Little Scorpion anchorage on the east side. Spent the day yesterday hiking, getting water for Allymar’s tanks, and having black label with some geezers on shore. Retired school teachers from Visalia who are camping on the island for 3 days. There is a visitors center here with very interesting information on the geology and history of Santa Cruz. Another place we took from prior inhabitants who lived here for 13000 years. There are some of the most concentrated volcanic sea caves here and the geology is dynamic. Will get more water tomorrow and limit showers and start washing dishes in salt water. Another Oregon boat pulled into the anchorage in the evening, Stepping Stone out of Newport. They will be doing the HaHa also. Family of 4, with 2 daughters of +/- 5 and 16. Hope for another grand day tomorrow.October 9, 2009. In route for Catalina Island. NW winds and a following sea which makes for a rolly ride. Looking forward to arriving at another place. Santa Cruz was fantastic, with the sea caves, foxes, kelp beads and hikes
Fair winds
Ken
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Onward to the south
Hope your sunday was very productive
We have decided to spend 1 more day on the mainland before heading out to the Channel Islands. Port San Luis beckons and we will sail there tomorrow. Morro Bay was very interesting in that we never saw the famour rock due to fog. Thay did have a alvacado and marguarita festival in our honor and I wonder what Port San Luis has in store. Seemed a shame to not see this part of the California coast while we are here. The difference between even small towns like Morro bay and the isolated anchoraqges makes you appreciate both for what they offer. oo much of both I would expect would be missing the flavor of this wonfderful world. One area we will miss gladly is the LA basin and all of its maddness. By staying in the islands and offshore our next big stop (internet and stores etc) will be San Diego.
Morro Bay is a combination of working port and tourist attraction, as it seems are all of the small ports along the coast. I am glad that they have found a way to survive our economy and smaller fish harvests. Today was washing clothes, reprovisioning and meeting another HaHa participant (Steve on Joya).
San Miguel Island should be our first stop offshore and then on the Santa Cruz island. San Miguel is administered by the Parks Deparrtment and we should get our permission to land tomorrow. Before tghe islands we will be passing Point Conception, known for high winds and called the Cape Horn of California.
So, so long for now and I do not expect to be back posting for some time as there is no wifi out there. Next time pictures
I really appreciated the birthday greetings, where are all the cakes you promised. Call gthe coast guard and they will deliver.
Aloha and great sundays
Ken
We have decided to spend 1 more day on the mainland before heading out to the Channel Islands. Port San Luis beckons and we will sail there tomorrow. Morro Bay was very interesting in that we never saw the famour rock due to fog. Thay did have a alvacado and marguarita festival in our honor and I wonder what Port San Luis has in store. Seemed a shame to not see this part of the California coast while we are here. The difference between even small towns like Morro bay and the isolated anchoraqges makes you appreciate both for what they offer. oo much of both I would expect would be missing the flavor of this wonfderful world. One area we will miss gladly is the LA basin and all of its maddness. By staying in the islands and offshore our next big stop (internet and stores etc) will be San Diego.
Morro Bay is a combination of working port and tourist attraction, as it seems are all of the small ports along the coast. I am glad that they have found a way to survive our economy and smaller fish harvests. Today was washing clothes, reprovisioning and meeting another HaHa participant (Steve on Joya).
San Miguel Island should be our first stop offshore and then on the Santa Cruz island. San Miguel is administered by the Parks Deparrtment and we should get our permission to land tomorrow. Before tghe islands we will be passing Point Conception, known for high winds and called the Cape Horn of California.
So, so long for now and I do not expect to be back posting for some time as there is no wifi out there. Next time pictures
I really appreciated the birthday greetings, where are all the cakes you promised. Call gthe coast guard and they will deliver.
Aloha and great sundays
Ken
Friday, September 18, 2009
San Fran to San Simeon
Love this place San Simeon. Pelicans diving into the water at warp speed, Seals chasing herring aroubnd in big schools, Sea Otters lying on their backs and waving their flippers at me, Pelicans, Dolphins and more Pelicans. Hearst castle up on the hill and a great little store with good food for lunch. There is a hike on the beach where you walk along the cliff bewtyween rows or wind break trees that must have been planted years ago by easly settlers to the area.
Was great to see Justin in San Fran, Thanks for the use of the car Justin.
Had my birthday yesterday and celebrated with brownies, 1 candle and lots of phone calls. Thanks.
Left Sausalito at 930 Tue morning and arrived in San Simeon at 1430 on Wednesday. 180 miles in less than 30 hours, not bad at all. We expect to leave from here to either Morro Bay or Port San Luis on Sunday weather allowing. We will provision there for a trip f 2 weeks or so to the Channel islands. Have met boats going both north and south here and expect that only to increase as we go farther south.
Crew and skipper are doing well and look forward to warmer weather. The last night out was in the fog and was the coldest so far. When we sailed under the GGB going out we could barely see the bottom of the car surface from directly below and that fog lasted to below Half Moon Bay.
Hello to all
Fair Winds
Ken
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Found more pictures
We watched the bridge slowly come out of the fog as we approached the bar. Not that bar, the bar at the beginning of the bay. I have looked down at boats and it is as good if not better to look up at the people looking down. Should have expected something grand aftan that sunset. Guesas the wearther was impressive aall over the area as iIhave heard people talking about it today. Ken
Half way to San Diego
Hello friends
Sailed into San Francisco bay yesterday under the bridge into great saining weather. Lots of expensive racing boats out andf about on our way to anchor off of Sausalito. Was awakened in the middle of the night to see a grand light show of lighting with instant thunder. Watching the lightning hit the hills of Tiburon.
Spent thursday night anchored in Drakes Bay which is about 30 miles north of the bridge. Highlights of the trip down the coast: The 20 hours of heaving too when the winds and swells (increased with the wind waves) reached the point where running before it was not safe. The absolute confidence I now have in the down wind sails which work with only one up if needed. That the wind vane was able to steer Allymar even with onlky 1 down wind sail up. The learning curve of the crew which givves me confidence in them. Warm meals in the evening. The lack of good weather forcasting as the weather that caused us to heave too was supposed to be only 5-15.
Plan is to stay here until early next week and head south with the next stop hopefully to be San Simeon. Maybe have the opportunity to tale Justin and Valerie and others on a sail in the bay.
Ken
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Almost time to go again
Well the weather is improving and we should beable to leave tomorrow morning at 0700. It has been good to spend time in an old stomping ground although could have done without the rain and winds. Met up with White Cloud out of Seattle, and will hopefully see tham again on the trip to Mexico. The salmon slamming derby has been on all weekend and the word is that the catch wasoor this year. Lors of beer (if you can call coors lite beer) and food were purchased from the venders. Kristin and Colin are itching to go and are working on their assignment to plan a route to frisco with headings, distance and positions off the cape and points.
Saw a couple of Ashlanders and one Medfordite here and had the opportunity to listen to Siskiyou Music Hall on KSOR. Close to the old home I am.
Next post will be from frisco inless weather forces us to stop before. Our next anchorage is to be Drakes Bay just north and west of the golden gate bridge. I am looking forward to going under the bridge again.
Great picture of Harp bringing in the bounty of the garden. Was lucky to get to the farmers market yesterday here so we have fresh veggies for the trip. Food is important off shore, especially warm food.
See you all down the water highway.
Fait winds and following seas
Ken
from the not now sailing wife
Wellll some one has to bring in all the corn that Ken planted, and since I can't sail, I got elected.
So here you have it: our first Silverton garden, and we didn't even amend the soil. Beans, corn, peppers squash, tomatos, eggplant, all the usual suspects. If we had any question about whether this was a good place to live to grow our food, those questions have been laid to rest!
Thanks to my pal Rosa who came out in the rain to pick.
Thanks too to Dee for the incredible short cut put up method: cut from cob, vaccuum pack and freeze. To be made into corn salsa et al later.
Blessings to the sailors: my intrepid husband (doing it for both of us) and Kristen and Colin-in my stead. Hope to meet you soon.
Harp--
Friday, September 04, 2009
Cleaning the bottom the fun way
Took full advantage of a 24-36 hour weather window and scooted down to Brookings. Rubbed off the slight scum that grew on Allymar's bottom since the haul out. Crew did well for their first time out on the ocean, standing watches, asking appropriate questions and dealing with some seasickness with a positive attitude. It was so good to be back on the water, especially watching the moonrise as the sun was going down over thew other shoulder. There was a shade too much motoring as winds were light southerly most of the time. The Monitor vane did yeoman work when asked (I hate to steer). when we had good westerlies.
When we came into Brookings harbor this morning at 0630, the fleet of boats coming out for a Salmon derby met us in the channel between the jetties. Must have been 50 boats in 5 minutes as they rushed out to get the biggest and fastest fish. We just kept our speed and direction and let them go around us. Wish I had my camera as we came in.
When we came into Brookings harbor this morning at 0630, the fleet of boats coming out for a Salmon derby met us in the channel between the jetties. Must have been 50 boats in 5 minutes as they rushed out to get the biggest and fastest fish. We just kept our speed and direction and let them go around us. Wish I had my camera as we came in.
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