SOUTHWINDS News & Views for Southern Sailors
New West Florida Sailing Section Hunter 212 Boat Review Catamaran: From a Bare Hull
April 2004 For Sailors — Free…It’s Priceless
40 13999
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Model 3304524 Was 249.99 Reg. 179.99
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MORE THAN 280 STORES • 1-800-BOATING • westmarine.com
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April 2004
Southwinds
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SAVE $20,000
2003 Catalina 42 • Clearance $188,000 46 Beneteau 2000 . . . . . . . . .$279,500 46 Beneteau 1997 . . . . . . . . .$199,000 45 Morgan 1995 . . . . SOLD . . . . . .$229,900 45 Morgan 1991 . . . . . . . . . .$195,000 45 Hunter 1999 . . . . . . . . . .$229,000 44 Beneteau 1995 . . . . . . . . .$164,900 44 Morgan 1990 . . . . . . . . . .$169,900 43 Hunter 1997 . . . . . . . . . .$169,500 42 Beneteau 1983 . . . . . . . . . .$72,000 42 Hunter 1996 . . . . . . . . . .$184,000 42 Hunter 1992 . . . . SOLD . . . . . .$144,900 42 Catalina 2003 Demo/New .$188,000 42-2 Catalina 2001 . . . . . . . .$189,500 42-3 Catalina 1989 . . SOLD . . . . . .$109,000 411 Beneteau 2001 . . . . . . . .$174,000
2001 Beneteau 411 • $174,000 41 Morgan Classic 1989 . . . .$124,900 41 Morgan Classic 1987 . SOLD . . . . . .$89,500 41OI Morgan 1973 . .SOLD . . . . . . .$49,900 40 Hunter 1992 . . . . . . . . . .$115,000 40 CC Beneteau 1997 . SOLD . . . . . .$120,000 40-2 Jeanneau 2001 . . . . . . . .$175,500 40-3 Jeanneau 2000 . . SOLD . . . . . .$144,000 40 CC Beneteau 1997 . SOLD . . . . . .$134,500 38 Beneteau 2001 . . . . . . . . .$147,000 38 Hunter 2000 . . . . . . . . . .$115,000 38 Catalina 1981 . . . . . . . . . . .$40,000 38 Morgan 1979 . . . . . . . . . . .$59,900 38 CC Morgan 1997 . . . . . . .$135,000 37 Hunter 1997 . . . . . . . . . . .$82,000 36 Catalina 1999 . . . . . . . . . .$115,000
1993 Hunter 405 • $119,000 36 Catalina 1994 . . . . . . . . . . .$85,000 36 Catalina 1994 (2) . . . . . . . .$79,500 36 Jeanneau 1997 . . . . . . . . . .$92,500 35 Beneteau 1996 . . . . . . . . . .$77,500 34 Catalina 1987 . . . . . . . . . . .$44,900 34 Hunter 2001 . . . . . . . . . . .$97,500 33 Hunter 1995 . . . . . . . . . . .$64,500 320 Catalina 1996 . . . . . . . . . .$75,000 320 Catalina 1995 . . . . . . . . . .$65,000 320 Catalina 1999 . . . . . . . . . .$97,500 31 Catalina 2001 . . . . . SOLD . . . . . .$88,900 30 Hunter 1988 . . . . . . . . . . .$36,000 30Catalina 1989 . . . . . SOLD . . . . . .$34,500 30 Catalina 1987 . . . . . SOLD . . . . . .$32,500 28 Hunter 1990 . . . . . SOLD . . . . . .$26,900
LD SO
LD SO
1989 Catalina 30 • $34,950
1994 Catalina 36 • $79,900
1995 Morgan 45 • $229,900
All listings are Massey centrals
SINCE 1977
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May 21-23, 2004 • Regatta Pointe Marina Call for details
Call for your FREE “How to Prepare your Yacht for Sale” package.
Palmetto, FL 941-723-1610 • TOLL-FREE 800-375-0130
Brad Crabtree
Scott Pursell
Frank Hamilton
Dan Howland
St. Pete, FL 727-824-7262 • TOLL-FREE 877-552-0525
Edward Massey
Bill Wiard
Mary Beth Singh
Al Pollak
Anne Corey
ADVERTISER INDEX BY CATEGORY
(See page 69 for alphabetical list)
SAILBOATS – NEW AND BROKERAGE Beneteau Sailboats Boaters Exchange/Catalina Sailboats Compac Boats East Carson Yacht Sales/Beneteau Eastern Yacht Sales/Beneteau Flying Scot Sailboats Gulf Coast Yacht Sales Hunter Sailboats Massey Yacht Sales/Catalina/Jeanneau/Hunter/Mainship Masthead Yacht Sales/Catalina Murray Yacht Sales/Beneteau Raider Sailboats Sarasota Youth Sailing Program donated boats Snug Harbor Boats/Compac/Elliot St. Barts/Beneteau Suncoast Inflatables/ West Florida Tackle Shack/Hobie/Sunfish, St. Petersburg Tampa Sailing Squadron donated boats Weathermark Sailing/Catalina/Vanguard/Hobie Windcraft, Trimarans and Catamarans, Sail or Power
Back Cover 6,63 16 Back Cover Back Cover 64 64 10,11 3,9,19,39,43,47, IFC 34,69 Back Cover 66 62 15 Back Cover 59 54 62 12 27
GEAR, HARDWARE, ACCESSORIES
Air Duck Hatch Windscoop Bluewater Sailing Supply, www.bluewaterss.com/ Boaters Exchange, boats, gear, etc. Rockledge FL BoatUS Bo’sun Supplies/Hrdwre/Rigging www.bosunsupplies.com Defender Industries, www.defender.com Fujinon Binoculars Garhauer Hardware/www.garhauermarine.com Glacier Bay Refrigeration/ www.glacierbay.com Hood/SSMR Hotwire/Fans & other products Island Time PC/12-volt computers Island Marine Products/Davits,motorlocks,etc. JR Overseas/Moisture Meter Martek Dinghy Davits Masthead Ent. www.mastheadsailinggear.com Nautical Trader/buy/sell/consign Rparts Refrigeration, www.rparts.com Sailor’s Soap Hood/SSMR Tackle Shack/Hobie/Sunfish, St. Petersburg West Marine
33 13 6,63 7 37 68 27 34 44 61 67 67 32 33 67 34,69 52 30 23,36,46 61 54 29, IFC
SAILS (NEW & USED), RIGGING, SPARS, RIGGING SERVICES Altlantic Sails Banks Sails/new, used, repair & canvas/ West Florida Bluewater Sailing Supply, www.bluewaterss.com/ BoatUS Cruising Direct/sails online by North Dwyer Mast/spars, hardware, rigging Masthead/Used Sails and Service National Sail Supply, new&used online Nuclear Sails North Sails Porpoise Sailing Services Sail Exchange/www.sailexchange.com Schurr Sails, Pensacola FL UK Sails, www.uksailmakers.com Ullman Sails/West Florida West Marine
35 68 13 7 45 68 34,69 42 13 6 69 40 15 41 57 IFC
CANVAS Banks Sails/new, used, repair & canvas/ West Florida Shadetree Sailcovers and More
USED SAILING/BOATING SUPPLIES Don’s Salvage, Clearwater FL Nautical Trader/buy/sell/consign, West Florida Scurvy Dog Marine/Used, Consign, Pensacola FL
68 27 68
Beta Marine Fleetside Marine Service RB Grove/Universal and Westerbeke
16 67 27
RESORTS, MARINAS, RESTAURANTS, BOAT YARDS Bob and Annie’s Boatyard Crow’s Nest Restaurant & Marina Pasadena Marina, St. Petersburg
20 56 51
CHARTER COMPANIES Sailtime, Time-Share ownership
65
MARINE SERVICES, SURVEYORS, INSURANCE, TOWING, BOAT LETTERING, ETC. Aqua Graphics/Boat Names/Tampa Bay or buy online Beachmaster Photography Bluewater Insurance/ Florida Coast Weather Services Davis Maritime Surveying First Patriot Inc, Insurance Agency, Paul Phaneuf TowboatUS
65 66 14 69 51 21 13
COMPUTERS AND SOFTWARE Island Time PC
67
MARINE ELECTRONICS Dockside Radio JR Overseas/Moisture Meter Sea Tech/Navigation/Communication
17 33 44
BOOKS
Bubba Stories Book Great Outdoors Publishing Gunkholer’s Cruising Guide/West Florida
18 52 52
REGATTA ADVERTISEMENTS, BOAT SHOWS Corinthian Regatta, Bradenton YC Sailfest, Sarasota Youth Sailing Program Regional Sailing Services Directory Sailing Services Directory West Florida Subscription Information Alphabetical Advertisers’ List Where to Get Southwinds
57 56 48 55 This Page 69 61
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April 2004
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SOUTHWINDS NEWS & VIEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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From the Helm Letters Books to Read Bubba Causes a DSQ By Morgan Stinemetz First-time Charter in Tampa Bay By Laurel Browning Boat Review: Hunter 212 By Charley Weaver Interview with Gary Jobson By Morgan Stinemetz Boatek: Batteries That Die Young By Stephen Sommer Racing and Cruising in St. Croix By Carol Bareuther BVIs on $25 By Mike Kirk The Boat Slip Crisis By Stan Zimmerman Catamaran: From a Bare Hull By John Kelly Southern Sailing: Why Does the Same Guy Win Most of the Races? By Dave Ellis Southern Racing and Ocean Racing Southern Racing Calendar West Florida Sailing: Regional News & Calendar on Racing and Sailing Classifieds Everybody Needs a “Break” Now and Then By Mary Reid
Cruising and Racing in St. Croix. Photo by Dean Barnes. Page 30.
Regional Sailing Services Directory West Florida Sailing Services Directory Alphabetical Index of Advertisers Advertisers’ List by Category Subscription Form Where to Pick Up Southwinds Calendar Photo Contest Cover: Davis Island anchorage. Steve Morrell photo.
Catamaran from a bare hull. Photo by John Kelly. Page 36.
From the Carolinas to Cuba…from Atlanta to the Abacos…Southwinds Covers Southern Sailing LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Southwinds
April 2004
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SOUTHWINDS NEWS & VIEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS Southwinds Media, Inc. P.O. Box 1175, Holmes Beach, Florida 34218-1175 (941) 795-8704 (877) 372-7245 (941) 795-8705 Fax www.southwindssailing.com e-mail: editor@southwindssailing.com
VOLUME 12
NUMBER 4
APRIL 2004
Copyright 2004, Southwinds Media, Inc. Publisher/Editor Steve Morrell editor@southwindssailing.com Founder Doran Cushing Advertising Steve Morrell The Southeast Coast: editor@southwindssailing.com Carolinas and Georgia (941) 795-8704 Rona Garm rgarm@ec.rr.com Gary Hufford (910) 395-0189 gary@southwindssailing.com (727) 585-2814 The Northern Gulf Coast: Florida Panhandle, Alabama, Florida Keys Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas Rebecca Burg Kim Kaminski angel@artoffshore.com Kaminski_K@msn.com (305) 304-5118 (850) 384-8941 Design/Graphics Heather Nicoll Proofreading Kathy Elliott Carol Bareuther Rebecca Burg Kim Kaminski Arturo Perez Stephen Sommer Stan Zimmerman
Contributing Writers Sherry Beckett Dave Ellis John Kelly Mary Reid Morgan Stinemetz
Laurel Browning Rona Garm Mike Kirk Mike Savino Charley Weaver
Contributing Photographers Dean Barnes Alex Gort/Bacardi Cup Gary Hufford Kim Kaminski Mike Kirk John MacNeil Arturo Perez Jeri Webb EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS: ARTICLES & PHOTOGRAPHY: Southwinds encourages readers, writers, photographers, cartoonists, jokers, magicians, philosophers and whoever else is out there, including sailors, to send in their material. Just make it about the water world and generally about sailing and about sailing in the South, the Bahamas or the Caribbean, or general sailing interest, or sailboats, or sailing in some far-off and far-out place. Southwinds welcomes contributions in writing and photography, stories about sailing, racing, cruising, maintenance and other technical articles and other sailing-related topics. Please submit all articles electronically by e-mail (mailed-in discs also accepted), and with photographs, if possible. We also accept photographs alone, for cover shots, racing, cruising and just funny entertaining shots. Please take them at a high resolution if digital, or scan at 300 dpi if photos, or mail them to us for scanning. Contact the editor with questions. Subscriptions to Southwinds are available at $12/year, or $20/2 years for third class, and $24/year for first class. Checks and credit card numbers may be mailed with name and address to Southwinds Subscriptions, PO Box 1175, Holmes Beach FL, 34218-1175, or call (941) 795-8704. Subscriptions are also available with a credit card through a secure server on our Web site, www.southwindssailing.com. Southwinds is distributed to over 500 locations throughout 10 Southern states. If you would like to distribute Southwinds at your location, please contact the editor.
Read Southwinds magazine on our Web site, www.southwindssailing.com.
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April 2004
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LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Southwinds
April 2004
7
FROM THE HELM CHANGES IN THE WIND AT SOUTHWINDS
W
ith this issue, Southwinds will be making a change in the magazine that will have a major impact on how we cover southern sailing. Southwinds has always tried to bring local news to southern sailors and this has been a challenge as the southern sailing waters are extensive and cover a lot of territory. We deliver the magazine and report on an area stretching from North Carolina south along the East Coast to the Florida Keys and north along the Eastern Gulf through the Northern Gulf coast. We also cover many inland lakes in these states. In the coming months we will start adding regional sections to help improve our local coverage. There will be six regions. Starting from the northeast and heading south the regions will be: The Southeast Coast—North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia; East Florida—from the Georgia/ Florida line south to the central east coast of Florida (north of Ft. Pierce); The Southeast coast of Florida—from Ft. Pierce down through Miami; The Florida Keys; West Florida—from Cape Sable north to Florida’s Big Bend; The Northern Gulf Coast—Florida’s Big Bend and East, including the Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. In this issue, we have started the West Florida Sailing section. In it, we will have racing news, race reporting, a race calendar, cruising news and events, an events calendar, and a sailing services directory. We will also have stories in these sections that related directly to that area. A story might be about a prominent sailing personality in the region, cruising
stories, or a favorite anchorage, just to name a few examples. These new sections will allow advertisers to target and reach the sailing public in the areas they serve. We will have a new sailing services directory in each section for small businesses to list their services at a reasonable advertising rate. To help get these new sections going we are offering great incentives to new display advertisers who will be in these sections and want to target their area’s sailors. We already have a regional sailing services directory section that covers the eight states and 500 locations we distribute to. The inexpensive advertising rates in the directory have already attracted many small businesses that have no other way to advertise their services to sailors beyond advertising in Southwinds. The majority of the magazine will be of general interest to southern sailors, with Bubba, maintenance articles, letters, classifieds, stories, Bahamas and Caribbean coverage, and other interesting news and events. We believe this change will benefit everyone by giving more localized and personal coverage, and we are hoping that our readers will help contribute to these changes by letting us know what they would like to read about and what they think of these changes. Readers can also send us items for the racing and events calendars and other sailing news they would like to see published. Please visit our West Florida Sailing section in this issue to see how we will be covering these other regions in the coming months. Steve Morrell Editor
PHOTO CONTEST SOUTHWINDS 2005 CALENDAR Enter Southwinds Magazine photo contest for our 2005 calendar. 12 photos chosen. Credit will be given to each photographer on the calendar along with a Southwinds subscription, and five calendars. • All photos must have at least one sailboat in them and the photo must be taken in the Southern U.S., Bahamas, or Caribbean and can be racing, cruising, at anchor, or motoring. • Maximum 5 entry photos per person. Only one photo chosen from any one person. • Photos will be judged on composition, clarity, and lighting. • Photos preferred to be in color and must be horizontal. Entries must be received by October 15, 2004. Mail all entries with name, address, phone number, e-mail (if available), photo description, where and when taken. Please protect your photos in transit. Send entries to: Southwinds Magazine 2005 Calendar Photo Contest PO Box 1175 Holmes Beach, FL 34218-1175 Call (941) 795-8704 or e-mail editor@southwindssailing.com with any questions. CONTEST RULES: Southwinds will retain rights of the photo for the calendar and any advertising associated with it or use of the photo for advertising future calendars. After receiving the photo, Southwinds will mail a copyright release to the photographer, which must be signed and received by Southwinds by the deadline entry date. Southwinds also retains the rights to cancel this contest if deemed necessary to do so by the Publisher. All photos become the property (with the limited rights mentioned above) of Southwinds. Discs are not returnable. Other restrictions apply. TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS: 35mm (or larger format) photos –Original photo only. No slides please. Digital photos: 300 dpi minimum at 9 x 12 inches. Mailed in on disc, and not returnable. Digital photos will have to be of very high resolution to be printed this size, and the average non-professional digital camera will not be able to take a photo of this resolution. Please submit all photos on disc with one version in high resolution and one in low resolution. 8
April 2004
Southwinds
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Call for Special New Yacht Discounts
New 2004 MAINSHIP 40 – Hull #139 in stock
Call for Special New Yacht Discounts
Call for Special New Yacht Discounts
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LD O S New MAINSHIP 30 Sedan Hull #198 in stock
New MAINSHIP 30 Express Hull #112 in stock
New MAINSHIP 34 On Order
New MAINSHIP 43 Hull #100 in stock
Buy now. Cruise Tomorrow. Save Thousands. New is Better. • • • • • • • • •
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The best part of purchasing a new yacht is that it’s NEW and really costs about the same as buying a late model pre-owned yacht. This is prime time for Florida boating and your new Mainship is ready to cruise away, right now! Call or come by and discover the dollars and sense of owning a new yacht.
New is better.
SINCE 1977
www.masseyyacht.com
May 21-23, 2004 • Regatta Pointe Marina – Call for details Palmetto, FL 941-723-1610 • TOLL-FREE 800-375-0130
Brad Crabtree
Scott Pursell
Frank Hamilton
Dan Howland
St. Pete, FL 727-824-7262 • TOLL-FREE 877-552-0525
Edward Massey
Bill Wiard
Mary Beth Singh
Al Pollak
Anne Corey
Large Cruisers Massey Yacht Sales – Palmetto, FL Massey Yacht Sales – St. Petersburg, FL Whitney’s Marine – Orange Park, FL Whitney’s Marine – Lake Lanier, GA Mid South Sailing – Gulfport, MI MG Mayer Yacht Sales – New Orleans, LA Florida Yacht Charters and Sales – Miami Beach, FL
(941) 723-1610 (727) 828-0090 (904) 269-0027 (770) 965-4720 (228) 863-6969 (504) 282-1700 (305) 532-8600
Trailerables NBOA – Sarasota, FL Lake Fairview Marina – Orlando, FL Performance Sail and Sport – Melbourne, FL Select Yachts – Lake Lanier, GA Sayre Sailing – Charleston, SC Alabama Sailing – Tallassee, AL
(941) 360-6777 (407) 295-0117 (321) 253-3737 (770) 965-4720 (843) 534-0560 (334) 315-5055
LETTERS “Freedom of the press is limited to those who own one.” H.L. Mencken In its continuing endeavor to share its press, Southwinds invites readers to write in with experiences & opinions. BOOT KEY HARBOR GETS MORE EXPENSIVE FOR BOATERS? Dick de Grasse’s article about Boot Key Harbor was subtitled “The City Improves Conditions for Boaters,” but I think most boaters would put it as, “Harbor Gets More Expensive for Boaters.” I’m anchored in Boot Key Harbor right now, for a month or two. Contrary to statements in the article, the city IS planning to more or less outlaw anchoring. In the city marina, they’ve posted an article (12/28/2003 Marathon Weekly, I think) by the city manager saying that when all 230 moorings are in, there will be one area only for “temporary or emergency” anchoring, probably big enough to hold 25 boats or so. I think most boaters in the harbor think the city is trying to drive out “riff-raff” they don’t make money from. I understand that the city needs money, that the city marina has always been money-losing, and that some boaters break the rules. And the city has done some good things, such as removing derelicts and providing recycling/disposal facilities. They’ve also wasted money on fancy boats (as mentioned in the article), and you should see the nice landscaping and offices they’re going to build at the marina! You can see where the money is going. And the harbormaster seems to delight in saying “no” as much as possible to anything a boater wants to do. The atmosphere in the harbor has become very antagonistic. Far different from the situation portrayed in the article. I don’t care how much money you have; $150/month for a mooring is a lot different from $0/month for anchoring. Bill Dietrich s/v Magnolia Bill, Over the last couple of years we have had a lot of letters and articles about different views at Boot Key Harbor and the rights of live-aboards, rights to anchor, and who really owns and controls what. It appears from your letter that, yes, live-aboards are getting charged for every little service at Boot Key Harbor. I guess you get the “boot” if you don’t pay up. It’s an old trick to make the main price seem cheap. Draw you into the store on the big ticket items and then get you on the little stuff. Only problem here is there aren’t too many “stores” that give us options to enter. Marathon has a monopoly on Boot Key Harbor. I remember back in the ‘70s when they started charging these higher fees to enter our national parks to try and pay for everything via the user. For some reason, I have this feeling that certain things in life should be free to all, like nature, and a good clean nature (I’ll probably get accused of being a tree-hugger for wanting a clean environment). We all know they aren’t free, but user fees to experience nature go against a central philosophical core in me. The government hasn’t started charging us to go to the beaches yet, and that is one place we all get to use for free. We can still get into the national forests and the BLM-controlled lands for free, but the more pristine national parks we gotta pay to enjoy. I think the municipalities know they can’t charge for the beaches as maybe they see that as an inalienable right if you access it by land (or they know it’s too late to change that established practice of free access), but coming in by boat they figure they can start charging. I think what it comes down to is, if they can find a loophole and charge for it, they are going to. If they use the argument that it costs the public money for these users, then what about the beaches and local parks, the sidewalks, 12
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etc. Or maybe they figure if you own a boat, you can afford to pay (I guess they never owned one or they’d know the truth.) What that does is make the sport and lifestyle of cruising and live-aboarding(sic) available only to the wealthy, which is the road much of this country seems to be going down. Beyond this principled argument, I really wonder about anchoring rights on waterways. I have had no one prove to me that it is not the right of boaters to anchor in a lot of waterways that are now being restricted. As you might have read last month, we published a letter filled with facts and quotes of laws and rulings on this subject, and I again really wonder after reading it if these municipalities are exerting more power than they legally have. There is a recently formed organization called Boaters for Waterway Rights, based in Stuart, FL. You can contact them by e-mailing Tgill47672@aol.com. Editor
THE GREEN FLASH LIVES I’ve lived in the Keys for about 20 years, and we see the green flash regularly when at anchor in Florida Bay or the Gulf. If there are clouds, or an island, on the bit of horizon where the sun sets, there is no green flash, and it certainly doesn’t happen at every sunset. I think it is more common during the drier conditions in the winter. When it happens, everyone on board who is looking sees it. It is definitely not a tall tale! Sometimes it is such a tiny flash you’re barely sure you saw something, but about a month ago we saw the biggest one ever. Debby Lloyd Islamorada, FL
....AND LIVES The Green Flash is an atmospheric phenomenon. If you are computer literate, you can find a number of explanations and photos on line. My first experience with the Green Flash was when I was bringing my first sailboat, a Nassau Dinghy, back from Bimini. On the long trip back, heading to Elliot Key, at sundown, I experienced my first Green Flash. Later, when my children were in Boy Scouts and we took an evening boat ride at Everglades National Park, as the sunset, there was the Green Flash. Of course, later, there were the Miami Yacht Club’s Key Largo Regattas, in which a different kind of Green Flash occurred, long after the sunset, but that is a different story. Harold Cobb Miami Yacht Club hrcrlape@aol.com Debby and Harold, Thanks for your letters on the Green Flash. I think most people are more familiar with the green flash you mentioned which came after the Key Largo regattas. But to move on, all of these different experiences will add up to us putting them in one collected future issue, which hopefully can become a landmark in the history of the Green Flash discussion. Perhaps Southwinds will help sponsor a Green Flash party, but I fear that many might misinterpret the name and party too much. Hopefully, others will continue to share their green flash experiences with us. We still have more to print but don’t always have the room. We will eventually get them all in the magazine. Editor
BUSH ADMINISTRATION RESTRICTS TRAVEL TO CUBA George Bush, by presidential proclamation on Feb. 26, has decided that all boaters are a threat to national security if they are See LETTERS continued on page 14 LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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LETTERS Continued from page 13 thinking about going to Cuba. His edict, in part, says: • Section 1. The Secretary (of Homeland Security) may make rules and regulations governing the anchorage and movement of any vessel, foreign or domestic, in the territorial waters of the United States, which may be used, or is susceptible of being used, for voyage into Cuban territorial waters and that may create unsafe conditions, or result in unauthorized transactions, and thereby threaten a disturbance of international relations. • Section 2. The Secretary is authorized to inspect any vessel, foreign or domestic, in the territorial waters of the United States, at any time; to place guards on any such vessel; and, with my consent expressly hereby granted, take full possession and control of any such vessel and remove the officers and crew and all other persons not specifically authorized by the Secretary to go or remain on board the vessel when necessary to secure the rights and obligations of the United States. • Section 3. The Secretary may request assistance from such departments, agencies, officers, or instrumentalities of the United States as the Secretary deems necessary to carry out the purposes of this proclamation. Such departments, agencies, officers, or instrumentalities shall, consistent with other provisions of law and to the extent practicable, provide requested assistance. The full proclamation is found at www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/02/2004022611.html. Bottom line: The federal, state, or local enforcers can board your boat, inspect, place guards, and take possession and control of the boat, evict the crew and captain/owner...while anchored, moored, or docked in the U.S., based on their belief that you may be going to Cuba. Is this acceptable to the sailing community in the U.S.? Doran Cushing St. Petersburg, FL (727) 895-4943 Doran, No. It is not acceptable. And it should not be acceptable to anyone in the United States—and not just to the sailing community, regardless of your beliefs about the Castro government. The U.S. Government has no right to restrict travel by an American citizen to another country under these circumstances. Every American should defend the rights of an American who wants to go to Cuba, just like every American should defend the right of free speech even if they disagree with that person. I would think that any American who believes in our Constitution can (in paraphrasing someone who once said, “I might not agree with what you are saying, but I support your right to say it) now say, even if they don’t agree with the present Cuban government, “I don’t want to go there, but I support your right to go there.” I would hope Americans would be united on that right. Doran, I know you have fought this unlawful attitude for a long time as former editor and founder of Southwinds. Some things just don’t seem to change. Although the previous administration loosened rules for travel to Cuba, I was disappointed they did not open it up completely. And now the current administration has restricted our rights to travel even more, going backwards. So, Americans can go to Cuba but they can’t spend money there. Now— whose money is it? Editor
BAHAMAS CHARTBOOKS AVAILABLE Colin Ward’s article on things you’ll need in the Bahamas in the February issue was interesting and there was lots of good solid advice. However, mention was made of Explorer 14
April 2004
Southwinds
www.southwindssailing.com
editor@southwindssailing.com
Web site: southwindssailing.com
Chartbooks with no reference as to where to purchase them. Can you help me? Golden Carper Rockledge, Fl Golden, Go to explorercharts.com. I also know they are available at Bluewater Books in Ft. Lauderdale (bluewatercharts.com). Editor
AUXILIARY ENGINE ARTICLE HAD LIMITED COVERAGE In your February issue, there is an article on sailboat auxiliary engines by Tim Banse. Mr. Banse is attempting to cover a lot of ground in a little space by including outboards and diesel engines, and he appears to have a few favored companies that he likes to deal with. He even goes to pains to mention one of our competitors who has virtually no distribution network or service network throughout the United States, but he doesn’t mention us. We are the importer and distributors for the Beta Marine range of propulsion engines for the US market. We currently have 68 dealers around the U.S. and more are coming on board. All of our engines from 10 to 75 HP are based on the superb Kubota diesel engines. Our engines have achieved a lot of good reviews, and we have literally hundreds of happy owners in the U.S. and many thousands worldwide. Our engines are engineered for ease of service, long life, and smooth running. All of our engines comply with the next tier of EPA regulations. Service parts are available through the Beta Marine dealer network or through Kubota dealers worldwide. We have a range of engines designed to replace the venerable Atomic 4 as well as engines designed to fit where the old Perkins 4-108, Volvo, Yanmar or Westerbeke were installed. Not only are our service parts very reasonably priced (see our website www.betamarinenc.com), the Kubota diesel is acknowledged world wide for its reliability and efficiency and all are smooth running and quiet. Beta Marine is the company that the others are copying. One manufacturer has tried to copy our user-friendly service items layout and another has blatantly copied our early model heat exchanger design. Our warranty is two years or 2000 hours and is a complete warranty which covers parts and labor and is not a glorified insurance policy with many restrictions and deductibles. Again, you can print the warranty conditions straight from our website. Stanley Feigenbaum V.P. Beta Marine, North Carolina, Ltd. Stanley, It is obvious that Mr. Banse’s article did not cover all the bases, as Kubotas and Beta Marine produce a well-known quality product, and for engine replacement, I have met several people over the years who would make it their first choice. In fact, I invite our readers to respond with their experiences on the modern sailboat auxiliary. Editor
ANYONE KNOW ABOUT CELL PHONE USE IN THE BAHAMAS? Your February issue of Southwinds was most timely for us as we prepare to leave Savannah, GA, for Marathon Key, Cuba (maybe), and the Bahamas within the next six weeks. Colin Ward’s article on what to take answered some of our questions, but it didn’t address the issue of cell phones. Do you know if it’s possible to call the States from the Bahamas? Thanks for your input — and for Southwinds. It’s a great
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See LETTERS continued on page 16 LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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LETTERS Continued from page 14 little magazine. Susan B. Johnson www.susanbjohnson.com Susan, I am not sure about the situation for cell phones in the Bahamas, but perhaps one of our readers will help us out and write in to let us know. Editor
BOATERS FOR WATERWAY RIGHTS A number of things are happening with Boaters for Waterway Rights. 1) Boaters for Waterway Rights has grown to about 700-800 members, so boaters are starting to band together. 2) The City of Stuart has arrested one boater three times for anchoring within the corporate city limits of Stuart. This will be in court in early May, 2004. Note. Under the freedom of information act, we requested from the city of Stuart a copy of all leases issued by the state of Florida to the city of Stuart for the submerged land beyond the high tide mark on the waters around Stuart. The city attorney informed me that they only have one lease for the area around city hall where a day dock has been installed, and a management agreement with the state of Florida for the area where the city mooring are installed. Our thoughts are if the city needs a lease to construct a dock on the river from the state, and a management agreement to install moorings, then the remainder of the waters around the city of Stuart is owned by the state of Florida and since the state of Florida and the Federal Government have NO laws about anchoring on the waterway of the United States of America then the city of Stuart has no right to govern waters that they do not have a legal right to. If, in fact, the city of Stuart had rights to the waterways around Stuart, then a lease would not be required to install a city day dock, and a management agreement for the mooring fields would not be required either. 3) I have just had a meeting with a group that consults to the government on the homeland security issue. The meeting was how to get boaters involved in our homeland security. The fact is that there are thousands of boaters traveling on our waterways throughout the United States at any given time. We are trying to set up a training program on what to look for and who to get hold of when a boater observes something that looks wrong. We need to get boaters involved. Anyone interested, please contact me so that we can show the government a list of boaters who are ready and willing to do their part in protecting the coastal areas of the United States. We feel that this is a very important issue and the lives you protect may be yours, a friend’s, or a loved one. Give us you Name and contact information so that when training is started we can contact you. We plan on putting a web page online soon. If anyone would like to help with the web page please contact me on line at the above e-mail address. Contact Tom Gill, Boaters for Waterway Rights 309 Dunscombe Road, Stuart, Florida 34996 E-mail Tgill47672@aol.com Tom, I am glad to see your organization is growing, as thus far I believe that the municipalities are grabbing what they can, thinking of the old adage, “Possession is nine-tenths of the law.” “You can’t fight city hall,” is another one. Let’s hope not. Editor 16
April 2004
Southwinds
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PO Box 1175,Holmes Beach FL 34218
Fax: (941) 795-8705
FOREIGN INQUIRY ON BOAT FOR SALE A SCAM TO GET BANK ACCOUNT? I placed an ad in Southwinds for a Pearson 26 recently. I received a strange reply and I was wondering if you have run across this before. I think it is some sort of scam. Here is a copy of it, what are your thoughts? Thanks, (Southwinds has left the following letter untouched with its original grammar.) Good Day Seller, My name is Bashron,I am located in scotland,i buy goods and services for my customers who come from different part of the world especially UK and Scotland,well i have a client right now that is willing to buy your ( 26 ft. Pearson OD )because he wants to travel along with it to US,I will like you to tell me your last offering price and its present condition immediately. My client will be willing to pay cashier check.so tell me the cost and present condition of the ( 26 ft. Pearson OD )and any recent pictures, and i will also like to know if you will accept a cashier check for the payment of the consignment.Get back to me as soon as possible so that we can get this transaction started. i look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, bashron invest I responded to the above inquiry and here is the reply from the person overseas that inquired about my boat. I am not sending him any information. It is obviously a scam to get my bank routing numbers. You may want to pass this along to others. Thanks, Bob Caron (Again, gramar left as is. – editor) i am willing to buy your( 26 ft. Pearson OD w/ 9.9 hp Johnson. )for $8200, my mode of payment will lays on certified cashier’ check drawn in u s funds, i will be informing my client in us who be forwarding a check of $15000 to you on my behave , i will be handling the shipping, and every relevant title, if you want me to forward the check to you, i want you to give me the name that will be on cheque and your physical address which you will like to recieve the cheque ,but if you will prefer to receive the check in your bank i will want you to provide all the necessary info concerning your bank (bank name and address, account #and rounting #, so that i can order my client to wire the payment to your bank asap. more over the balance on the excess funds will be baseon shipping bcos they are having other consignment for me to do the pick up, the shipper’s will be incharges of sign all relevant document, i will like to know if may mode of payment is accepted by you or not . i will really appreiciate your instant response. Thanks. Bob, I did have one other person telephone me a few months ago of a similar inquiry. It does sound like a scam — like those e-mails I receive all day about some foreign minister who has a lot of money and wants to share it with me. All I have to do is… Although I would not give out my bank account number and the bank routing number as easily as I donate money to the stock market, I am under the impression that it is easy to get a bank’s routing number with a phone call, and every time I write a check my bank account number is out there for others to see. I am also under the impression that transfers all go through the Federal Reserve Bank and it sounds difficult to me to scam money to go the other direction from this information. Maybe someone out there among our readers can enlighten us as to what is going on here and what to watch for. Editor LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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BOOKS TO READ NAVIGATION RULES – UNITED STATES COAST GUARD This is the latest updated version of the navigation rules, international and inland, since the U.S. Coast Guard was put under the new Department of Homeland Security. Although most of the book is traditional in the sense that it covers navigation rules, there is a section on the new rules, but it is a very small part of this book, in fact a tiny part. If you have never had one of these books you will find it interesting as it includes a lot that makes it clear to understand. Hard to believe from a government publication, but true in many cases here. The layout is done such that the left page is the international rules and the right side is the inland rules. Makes it pretty plain to see the differences. The book is laid out this way for lights and shapes, sounds, steering and sailing rules, exemptions, etc. Clear drawings of boats and their lights required, in color (red and green for port and starboard), make recognizing and understanding lights very easy. Annexes and Notices to Mariners up to December 2003 are included. Pretty good book and not as dry as one expects. Probably should have one onboard. Paradise Cay Publications. www.paracay.com. 218 pages.
PIRATES ABOARD! By Klaus Hympendahl This book is subtitled “40 Cases of Piracy Today and What Bluewater Cruisers Can Do About it.” This book has 40 “candid interviews” which bring some chilling stories to readers about cases of piracy. Of course, these interviews were with the survivors of piracy. Others couldn’t be interviewed. The instances are from around the world: Central America, Cape Verde Islands, the Philippines, and more. The book offers suggestions as to what cruisers can do to prevent piracy and names those places most dangerous. Hympendahl is a well-known German writer and sailor whose book, “Apollonia,” about the disappearance of two sailors on a transatlantic race, won him an award for the best sailing book of the year in Germany. His website, www.yachtpiracy.org, covers news about piracy around the world. A very interesting book—just to pick up and read an interview here and there. Sheridan House. $26.95 Hardcover 336 pages. www.sheridanhouse.com.
FLORIDA KEYS: PORTS OF CALL & ANCHORAGES By Thomas A. Henschel Aerial Photography by Joseph R. Melanson The subtitle of this book pretty much describes it: “Aerial Photography & A Guide To The Most Popular Ports of Call & Anchorages in The Florida Keys Including Biscayne Bay.” All the pages in this book are glossy and if you don’t want to drop everything and go boating in the Keys as you read it, then there must be something short-circuited in your psyche. Not only is this book a guide to navigation, it is also a fun book to just look through. From the navigator’s point of view and for pure enjoyment, the aerial photography really gives one an idea of how depths and channels in the Keys run. Text in the aerial photographs shows clearly navigation points, channels and landmarks. Along with the many other guides that are available on the Florida Keys, this would be a great help in getting around, seeing the channels and giving the boater a better perspective on where he is. Not just a collection of photos, the book also has good discussion on channels, anchorages and other spots and how navigable they are. If the Florida Keys tourism board wanted to promote the Keys, they should give this book away. Then, of course, there are many of us who love the Keys and would like to see this book hidden to keep the place from being inundated by thousands more. Cruising Guide Publications. www.cruisingguides.com. $29.95. 84 pages.
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LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Southwinds
April 2004
21
CHARTER
First-Time Captained Charter in Tampa Bay, FL By Laurel Browning
DeSoto Park, Bradenton, in south Tampa Bay area.
C
hartering a sailboat made me imagine sailing off into a colorful sunset, with a gentle breeze filling our sails. My husband Bob and I had talked about this dream of chartering a sailboat for many years, although I had been a little hesitant about us doing this alone and wanted to try it for the first time with an experienced captain. We called Offshore Sailing School in Tampa Bay, FL, to set this up because Bob and I had both taken sailing lessons eight years earlier from Offshore Sailing School in Captiva, FL. Because of our work, we have had limited opportunities since our Florida lessons to actually sail. Talking to Offshore, Bob explained that we were looking for a refresher sailing course, set up just for the two of us as a live-aboard cruise. Offshore was very accommodating and arranged for Capt. Dave Ellis to be our instructor on our maiden voyage. In July, almost before I knew it, we were flying down from our home in North Carolina to St. Petersburg, FL, to embark on a week of living and sailing on a beautiful 42-foot Catalina, the Lady Dorothy K. Dave met us Monday morning at the Harborage Marina to start our adventure. He had a ready smile and made us feel right at ease as we walked down to the dock to get our first view of Lady Dorothy K. At first glance, the boat seemed rather large for us to pilot, but the reassuring smile of Captain Dave put us at ease. He introduced us to the charter representative, Andrew, who proceeded to review the boat and all its features. Using a Catalina manual and a cruising checklist, together we located valves, switches, and pumps. This process took a lot longer than I had anticipated (about three hours), but in retrospect, I am glad we did take the morning to double-check all the systems and features we would be using on the boat. We knew that the charter company supplied food as part of the package deal, and so after we had checked out the boat, we loaded on the bags of food and drinking supplies for the week. I was surprised at the variety of foods that they had included as we unloaded bags of bananas, juices, steaks, bagels, and cookies. The only things we needed to supplement 22
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were drinks such as bottled water, sodas, and beer. We stowed the food in the galley, and left with Dave in his van Laurel and Bob Browning. for town to find a super- Photo by Dave Ellis. market. It’s good to go to a grocery store just before you embark so you can buy items forgotten at home, such as my sunglasses and sunscreen. We made our purchases, and drove back to the boat, ready to start our journey. Next, because our Catalina had a roomy table, we spread out the local charts showing water depths and landmarks. We decided to take a short afternoon sail around the bay to become acclimated to the area. With the temperature holding around 95 degrees, the prospect of a breeze seemed slight, but we were ready to depart. Bob took the helm, and I cast off lines as we eased out of our slip. To be honest, we didn’t quite ease from the dock, but Captain Dave was very helpful with instructions, so we avoided crashing into any other boats. We motored out through the channel with Dave talking us through getting ready to set the sails. Once we were in deeper water, I took the wheel while Bob and Dave raised the sails. Luckily for us, the sails were self-furling and only took a few minutes to raise and adjust. The sunlight glaring off the screens made it a little difficult to read the GPS. I was grateful for the canvas bimini overhead as I stood behind the wheel trying to read the gauges. The breeze was small but still a relief from the stifling heat inland, and soon we were skimming over the water, just as I had pictured it in my imagination. After a couple of hours, we headed back towards the harbor, lowered the sails, anchored, and called it a day. Kicking off our shoes, we surveyed our provisions, thinking about dinner. I remembered seeing lobster tails when we had stowed the food, so we pulled them out of the freezer to defrost along with some broccoli. Because it was in the 90s, the lobster defrosted quickly while we learned how to use the small propane grill attached to the rear of the boat. I loved grilling www.southwindssailing.com
since it meant that Bob was elected chef for the evening. Grilling outside also kept the heat out of the galley. Captain Dave lived nearby, and so we invited his lovely wife Julie to row out to our boat and enjoy our evening meal with us. An hour later, we were all eating a delicious dinner, while the retreating sun cast a splendid light over the water. It was a lot of fun sharing stories and relaxing out in the open air. We were sorry to see Julie leave, but she had to go to work the next day. Tuesday morning dawned early, and Bob and I decided to try out the stall shower by our stateroom but quickly realized that we had not opened the drain. Water inched up inside the glass stall, reminding me of some very bad movie scenes. Cutting short our shower, we quickly dressed, located the drain release, and noted for the future not to take such things for granted. Deciding to fry up some bacon for breakfast, I had a little trouble with the pilot switch on the stove, but we had matches that helped the situation. After breakfast, we checked the engine oil and radio, and went over the local charts as we planned our sail for the day. This daily process does not take long but does ensure that we know approximately where we are going. Today we were headed out to DeSoto Point, a historical point of interest in southern Tampa Bay. Bob reviewed the chart coordinates with Dave and plugged the numbers into our GPS system. We had never used a GPS with a color display before, but now I would highly recommend it. Color makes it so much easier to read the LCD screen, even with a harsh midday glare. DeSoto Point was a quiet place to moor for the night. It was also a good place for us to practice some maneuverings. We had asked Dave to review the process of setting two anchors and techniques for recovering a man overboard. The two-anchor process had to be postponed, as we realized upon close inspection that our second anchor was incomplete, missing an essential piece, and not functional. So we went ahead with some other skills we needed to practice, like learning how to set up a rescue, just in case one of us fell in. I nominated Bob to be the one rescued, but Dave had us use a floating buoy instead. After a few maneuvers, we decided to take the dinghy and motor over to explore DeSoto Point. People were catching fish on the beach, and we heard them shouting their success as we pulled up to the shore. DeSoto is visible from the water by its large cross and monument. There were marked trails pointing up toward the park station. The July heat made the prospect of air-conditioned rest rooms sound enticing enough for us to walk toward the park along trails edged with unusual vegetation. Encountering herons and crabs along the way, we also ran into other tourists speaking German, Japanese, and Spanish. We arrived at the station at 4:30, just before closing time, so we had little time to look at the exhibits of Desoto and the early explorers to the area. However, the rest rooms were clean so I splashed water on my face while wishing for a bath. Back on our boat, we dined on grilled steak complemented by chilled Coors. Life was good indeed. Dave entertained us with his repertoire of local stories and people that he has encountered from living in the Tampa Bay area most of his life. It was extremely helpful to learn about places to visit as well as places to avoid on our travels. Wednesday morning Dave set up some time to practice steering maneuvers before we left the harbor. Luckily for us, because as we practiced backing up, the cable between the throttle and the engine snapped, and we were left without LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
the ability to control the engine speed. Having an experienced captain on board was advantageous for us because Dave knew exactly whom to call for assistance. Cell phones have become standard everywhere, and cruising was no exception. Cell phones were an easy way for us to contact the charter company, who then put us in contact with Captain Andrew, who agreed to meet us that evening for repairs. Meanwhile, Dave connected a small piece of thin rope between the engine and the throttle that worked as a temporary connection for us to have engine power when we needed it. Luckily, there was a breeze and so we used the day for sailing practice, sailing to the Isla Del Sol Marina. It would have been rather tricky, sailing directly into a slip, so we called ahead to the marina and arranged to get a slip that we could maneuver into easily. Easily is a relative term when you are using a makeshift throttle. The marina operator met us at the dock where we scrambled to get lines attached and then breathed a sigh of relief. Once we were tied down at the pier, we enjoyed the benefits of marina life including dinner with wine in a beautiful restaurant overlooking Tampa Bay accompanied by Dave and his wife, who drove over to the marina after we had docked. Andrew arrived that evening and started to repair the cable but needed to get a part to finish the job the next morning. Early the next morning, Andrew arrived and completed his repairs to the cables. I decided then that I would ask about procedures for repairs before we took off on our next sailing charter. Everything was soon in working order, and we were ready to continue on our journey around the bay. For the next two days, wind was very light, but we were able to spend time charting our route, sailing around the bay area, learning to navigate bridges using the correct protocol, and honing our skills. We were ready to return to a hotel with lots of hot water and showers at the end of the week but reluctant to say goodbye to Lady Dorothy K. She was a wonderful boat and had taken us places not accessible by land. Bob and I had come wanting to learn the ins and outs of chartering a boat and learning to sail on our own. Dave Ellis had been the perfect coach for us, helping us with relaxed instructions as needed, and modifying our routine to make sure that we enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. We look forward to chartering a boat again and starting our next adventure. Have an interesting charter story? In the South, Caribbean, Bahamas or points beyond? Contact editor@southwindssailing.com.
See CHARTERS continued on page 69
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BOAT REVIEW
Plastic Boats? The Hunter 212 By Captain Charley Weaver
H
unter Marine Corporation since their founding has always been a leader in sailing innovation, and they have been unafraid to bring those innovations to market. The 212 is from Hunter’s small boat series targeting the trailerable market. The 212 is made out of advanced composite process plastic, which will be discussed later. The particular 212 tested was a fixed keel version made specifically for sailing schools teaching basic keelboat sailing. Advanced composite process (ACP) is a plastic process that uses an outer plastic skin. The outer plastic skin is 1/8-inch thick and is a co-extrusion of high impact resistant ABS and UV resistant Plexiglas. The hull is formed by using a process known as thermoforming that uses a vacuum to draw heated plastic onto a mold. The plastic skin is then reinforced with a foam core by placing the plastic hull in a matched mold with a 1” gap between the plastic and the mold. Liquid foam is then injected into the void under high pressure. The third stratum consists of fiberglass cloth. The cloth is attached to the mold during the forming process and is integrated into the hull as the foam expands. The result is a boat that is both lightweight and extremely durable. Because ACP is so much stronger than fiberglass, it’s the same material modern automobile bumpers are made of, and it can take a great deal more abuse before damage occurs. This is an important attribute for school boats and boats operated by novice sailors. Should a puncture or crack occur, the foam core will keep the damage from spreading and provides a backing surface to work with. Five times more impact-resistant than fiberglass, this boat is tough, unsinkable and virtually maintenance-free. The rigging is typical Hunter with swept back spreaders, fractional head stay, and no backstay of the B and R design. The rig is easy to step. A raising pole is standard. The bow pulpit even has a notch built in for a mast crutch for trailering/ storage. The full battened main is 150 square feet and is easily hoisted and sheeted with a 5:1 Harken block and tackle swivel mounted on the cockpit sole, easily reached by the helmsman or controlled by another crew member. Also included is a 3:1 boom vang. The fractional jib is 63 24
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The Hunter 212
LOA LWL Beam Draft Draft Draft Weight Weight Sail Area Mast Height
21’0” 18’0” 8’2” 5’0” Fixed Keel 5’0” Centerboard 10” Board Up 2200 lbs Fixed Keel 1800 lbs Centerboard 213 sq. ft. 31’0”
square feet with roller furling and a unique 2:1 purchase jib sheeting system with Harken cam cleats eliminating the necessity of winches. The cockpit is open transom and large enough to seat four adults and an instructor at the stern rail. There is a cuddy cabin forward with plenty of room for gear, cooler and a Porta-Potty. It is advertised to sleep four and with an optional galley. The boat is easy to sail with the large main and easily tacked jib. The boat is light and weight sensitive. Shifting weight as conditions change really enhances the sailing performance. In light breezes and up to 10 – 12 knots she is responsive, tacks/ jibes well and accelerates quickly. The main has only one reef point. In lieu of a second reef a much smaller, unbattened main is used. Above 15 knots, the rudder is beginning to be overpowered, and it is definitely time to reef. A traveler would be helpful. The boat was not equipped
with a knot meter but held her own with other boats her size. She also sails well under main alone, even reefed. This boat was equipped with an optional asymmetric spinnaker. It uses no pole or sprit but a bow pulpit lead ring for the tack line. The chute is easy to set and control and really gets the boat moving. The large cockpit provides the crew plenty of room to work. The asymmetric can be carried very close to the wind in light air. In all of the sailing, an added benefit was the headroom provided by the high mounted boom, a real safety consideration for a school boat or with young passengers who might not always be aware! The boat was powered by a five hp 4 stroke outboard, which moved her well and at hull speed. The outboard was quiet although there was some hollow rumbling from the hull, but it was not annoying. Earlier the boat had a 3.5 hp 2 stroke, but it produced just too much vibration. A long shaft motor is strongly recommended. Even then when crewmembers went forward, the engine could come out of the water. In summary, the boat has been used actively in a sailing school and rented to novice sailors. As advertised, she has been trouble free with the exception of some gudgeon and tiller problems that have since been corrected by a completely new design. She can be washed down with a fire hose; nothing sticks to the ACP hull! Hunter has replaced the 212 with a 216 which includes the new rudder-tiller changes, a larger cockpit, and smaller cabin for a sleeker look. The 216 is also made of ACP, but has a weighted centerboard with a hydraulic lifting mechanism. There are still a few new 212s at some Hunter dealers which are reported to be selling at used boat prices. Charley Weaver and his wife Sandra are owners of Windward Sailing School in Fernandina Beach, FL. Charley is an ASA Instructor Evaluator and ASA Instructor of the year for 2002 and 2003. The Windward Sailing School and San Diego Sailing School have been using the Hunter 212 for over 2 years. The boats are very reasonably priced and easy to maintain. Hunter Marine may be reached at e-mail huntermarine@att.net and Charley at e-mail sweaver2000@earthlink.net. www.southwindssailing.com
WHY ADVERTISE IN
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To increase sales. To reach every sailor in the Southern sailing community. To take advantage of the most cost-effective advertising rates in the country. Southwinds is delivered to over 500 locations in 8 Southern states: yacht clubs and sailing associations, marinas, marine suppliers, sail lofts, yacht brokers, and other sailing-related businesses.
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Opportunities for Advertisers We offer several options for Advertisers Display ads throughout the magazine Classified display ads in the classifieds section Our new Regional Sailing Services Directory for local services available to sailors. CONTACT YOUR SALES REPRESENTATIVE TODAY. Steve Morrell editor@southwindssailing.com (941) 795-8704
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LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
The Northern Gulf Coast: Florida Panhandle, Alabama Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas Kim Kaminski Kaminski_K@msn.com (850) 384-8941
Southwinds
April 2004
25
INTERVIEW
Gary Jobson Looks to the Future By Morgan Stinemetz
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went down to Punta Gorda on February 28, to see Gary Jobson. He was one of the “names” at the Leukemia Cup sailing race. The race, in Charlotte Harbor, had about 25 boats competing. I have talked with Jobson many times over the years, but it was mostly via e-mail or over the phone. We have been at the same events a couple of times, and we have always gotten along. Jobson has a knack for making you feel comfortable. Jobson, who lives in Annapolis with his wife and three daughters, has made an industry out of his sailing expertise. He was the smart one on the America’s Cup television coverage on ESPN. Gary knew the players. He had sailed on the 12-meters. He had been there, as tactician, sailing with Ted Turner in Turner’s victorious defense in 1977. They sailed on Courageous. If it has to do with sailing, particularly in the big leagues, Gary Jobson has done it. He is a true sailing celebrity. Better still, he is an engaging guy. He always has time to talk to you, and he is a great interview. He has written a number of books about sailing. I own several. When I walked into the room at the Isles Yacht Club in Punta Gorda, I saw Steve and Doris Colgate of the Offshore Sailing School. My host, Chris Webb, introduced me to another guy, kind of gaunt, who was wearing a baseball cap. I said howdy to him. I looked around for Jobson. He wasn’t there. The conversation ebbed and flowed for at least five minutes before I realized that Jobson was sitting right next to me and had been all along. I simply had not recognized him. I felt awful about it. It had never happened to me before, but it has probably happened to Jobson. His looks have changed so much since the last time I had seen him. Multiple sessions of chemo-therapy and a stem cell transplant will do that to a person. Jobson has 26
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Gary Jobson. Photo by Jeri Webb.
lymphoma, a form of cancer that attacks the body’s lymphatic system. It is serious business. Jobson was in New Zealand, covering the last America’s Cup, wherein Alinghi won the cup from the Kiwis, when he started getting mystifyingly sick. Jobson, who was blessed with the good looks of a movie star and a personality to match, bore up under the onslaught, but it was anything but fun. Of all people, it is weird that lymphoma should have picked Gary Jobson. Out of Annapolis, he had been working with the National Lymphoma Society. It started in 1993. In 10 years, through sailing regattas, the society has raised $12 million. “They are using the money right away for good research,” Jobson explained. “They are so close to so many cures for different blood-related cancers that they will keep using it for research.” In April of 2003 he was himself diagnosed with the disease that he had been battling by helping raise public awareness and hard cash. He has not missed the irony of it. “I was doing the America’s Cup and then a lecture tour when I was literally getting crumpled up and unbelievably tired. I went in for tests and scans. They said, ‘You have lymphoma.’ I have now
lived through treatment for it, which has included six rounds of chemo, two high dose rounds and a stem cell transplant.” I asked him how he felt now. “Okay,” he said. “Not perfect. I have been off treatment since December 23. That’s 10 weeks now and I am beginning to feel a lot better. But I get tired easily.” He said that even getting better has its ups and down, its peaks and valleys. The progress is slow, but Jobson is gaining strength. There is a portal out there though that he is hoping is a long way off. “It comes back. It always comes back,” Jobson declared. “You can’t get rid of it. In some people it comes back in 90 days, some people in five years and some people in 10 years.” He takes one day at a time. He said that the down times remind him of when he used to race in the old SORC, in the St. Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale race. “Going up the east coast of Florida when the wind was out of the north, and the waves are huge and there is still 118 miles to go. That was really hard stuff. So, what I visualize is that in ocean races, as tough as they were, you’d get to the finish line. And when I was in the hospital, struggling and feeling bed, I kept saying to myself, ‘I am going to get to the finish line here.’ ” One of the things that Jobson found out when word of his dilemma got out was that he had a lot of friends in the sailing world. By his best guess, he received 2,500 emails of good wishes and another 500 letters. “I’m not done yet,” Jobson said. “There is more sailing to do, more TV shows to do and there are more books to write.” And maybe more races to attend. The Leukemia Cup in Punta Gorda raised $63,000 on the very first try. Gary Jobson was part of the reason. Sail on, sailor. Godspeed. See West Florida racing section for Leukemia Cup coverage. www.southwindssailing.com
LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Southwinds
April 2004
27
BOATEK
By Stephen Sommer
SOLUTIONS TO ELECTRICAL, MECHANICAL, AIR-CONDITIONING, REFRIGERATION AND OTHER YACHT SYSTEMS
Batteries That Die Young Steve: I have just replaced my house battery bank, and the (flooded) batteries were only three months old! The AGM batteries before those lasted for four years of cruising. I’m pretty careful with my batteries; I watch my battery monitor closely, and I’ve read the books and specs on how to take care of them. What could the problem be? Jim Jim, Go through the checklist below, as honestly as you can. If you are innocent of any of these battery killers, then you probably have some batteries that were poor quality to begin with. It’s easy to end up with poor batteries due to the “label game” that goes on, which keeps you from knowing exactly who is making the batteries.
BATTERY KILLERS: • Overcharging: If you’ve been cruising, then it’s unlikely that you have overcharged your batteries. If you spent a lot of time on the dock, then you have to make sure that the battery charger doesn’t keep the voltage over 14 volts more than a couple of hours at a time. • Undercharging: A cruiser is often tempted to stop charging before the job is done because of the noise and fuel consumption of the engine. If you get the voltage over 14 volts and wait for the current to drop significantly at the end of most of your charges, then you are okay. • Excessively deep cycles: With highquality batteries, this killer might not show itself in three months. You should rarely, if ever, see voltages below 12 volts. • High temperature: If your batteries are in a hot engine room or are well insulated from outside air, you are drastically reducing the life of the batteries. This is especially true if you don’t have a temperature-compensated charger. • Poor Maintenance: If you use flooded batteries, you have to make sure that the water level is maintained. Only top off the batteries just after they are charged. The water level rises in the batteries during charging and can overflow if you fill them before 28
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charging. Make sure you use distilled water. • Lack of vigilance: If you live on the boat and pay attention to the battery monitor, then you are probably okay. If you leave the boat for long periods on a dock with a charger running, you don’t really know what has happened. If you can honestly excuse yourself from any of these “killers,” then you probably have wound up with poor quality batteries. In my opinion, when it’s time to buy batteries for a cruising boat, you have to go to a good battery shop and talk over the current “label game.” Find out who is making the batteries behind the labels “de jour.” Use the fact that you are buying a lot of batteries and that you are willing to shop around to get a good deal. Don’t look for a deal in the Sunday paper on big trolling motor batteries that seem to have a reputable name on them. A cruiser puts demands on batteries that are so far beyond the demands of most other applications that you really can’t rely on “reserve minutes,” “cold cranking amps,” “marine cranking amps,” long warranties, or almost anything else they have to say. What good does a five-year warranty do you when you are way, way out “there?” You will find the shortfall in batteries that are almost never detected in a weekender bass boat using trolling motor batteries. Those guys charge the batteries whenever they can and never have a battery monitor that can tell them what kind of performance they are really getting. Once they have a lapse of attention or maintenance, they will destroy either a good quality battery or a poor one and will replace it regardless. A cruiser will carefully demand all the performance that the batteries can provide, allowing for just enough excess ca-
pacity to achieve an acceptable lifetime. Battery companies should pay you technical cruisers for the data you collect! The only common application I can think of that really puts batteries through their paces on a regular basis, is in golf carts. Golf course managers maintain a lot of golf carts, and they will not continue to buy batteries that don’t make it through two rounds of golf per day, for as many years as possible. That’s a workout! This high-volume industry has created a real commodity market for deep cycle batteries. If you can provide the ventilation and maintenance needed for flooded batteries, go with golf cart batteries. You can’t beat the bang for the buck. I’m curious why you’ve had both flooded and AGM batteries. There isn’t really a good case for the use of sealed batteries unless you have a lack of ventilation, a lack of maintenance access, or strange mounting positions. AGM’s are best when you need a sealed battery bank that is small, yet must provide high current for short periods. These are great as motor start batteries or as bow thruster batteries. AGM’s have the shortest lifetime, measured in chargecycles of any of these batteries. If you got four years from a set of AGMs, then I know you know how to take care of batteries. Stephen Sommer is a degreed electrical engineer with extensive experience in electrical, mechanical, refrigeration and air-conditioning systems and holds a USCG Masters license. He consults in all areas of yacht systems, which include all the equipment on board yachts beyond a basic hull and motor or sails. Have a systems problem or question? Ask Stephen Sommer. E-mail: boatek@southwindssailing.com. www.southwindssailing.com
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April 2004
29
BAREUTHRA
Beach cats resting on the beach at Buck Island.
Cruisers Enjoy St. Croix While a Modified Olson Wins St. Croix Regatta By Carol Bareuther Photos by Dean Barnes St. Croix’s Nick Castruccio sailing aboard his J/30 Annick II. Castruccio started this regatta 11 years ago.
Overall winner, BVI’s Kevin Rowlette, on his modified Olson 30, Willy T. 30
April 2004
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www.southwindssailing.com
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deal conditions blowing 15 to 20 knots over six to eight foot seas, finely-tuned crew work and, ironically, “comfort,” led the BVI’s Kevin Rowlette, skipper of Olson 30, Willy T, to win his weight in Cruzan rum at the 11th annual St. Croix International Regatta, held February 1416 out of the St. Croix Yacht Club, St. Croix, Willy T crewmember, Rob Lyons, sits in for his weight in Cruzan rum, a signature feature of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The comfort factor came in a boat prizing-giving in this event. modification Rowlette finished literally CRUISING ST. CROIX hours before setting sail for this first of the northern Although not as popular as the northern stepping-stone isCaribbean’s spring regattas. lands of St. Thomas, St. John and the BVI due to its distance “There’s a trend towards modernizing some of the older 40 miles to the south, St. Croix is an excellent cruising destiboat designs, and that’s what we did,” Rowlette explained. nation. With winds blowing 15 to 20 knots, the reach from St. Over the course of three weeks, Rowlette cut back the Olson’s Thomas is an easy five- to six-hour trip. cabin top and extended the cockpit forward. “If anything, the The hottest destination to visit is Buck Island and the surboat sits heavier in the water. There’s nothing in the CSA (Carrounding Buck Island Reef National Monument. On January ibbean Sailing Association) rule about the measurement of 17, 2001, outgoing President Bill Clinton expanded the Monuthe cockpit, so the handicap stays the same. Its just that the ment area from 880 acres to 19,015 acres. Fishing, most andesign is much more comfortable. The crew had plenty of choring and other activities are now banned here with the maneuvering room, so we dialed in really fast,” Rowlette said. goal of restoring reef ecosystems and marine life. The NaRowlette took his inspiration from two sources. First, back tional Park Service administers the beautiful sand beaches in 2000, Soca Sailboats in Trinidad was selected by the Tartan and extensive coral reefs as well as maintains twelve moor10 association to build molds for a new T-10 design. Soca was ings (round with a blue reflective band around the center) at commissioned to build an initial 10 and up to 30 boats that the Underwater Trail. Day use is free but restricted to vessels had two primary alterations from the original Sparkman & 42-feet and under. There is limited anchoring allowed for Stephens design: a scooped-out transom for easier boarding larger boats off the west end beach. and a coach roof on the deck. Secondly, in 2002, St. Thomas There are three marinas on St. Croix, as well as anchorsailor Chris Rosenberg and boatbuilder Morgan Avery, innoing, and limited services are available at the St. Croix Yacht vated the IC or Inter Club 24, a redesign of a J/24 that feaClub in Teague Bay. All the marinas are located on the north tures a Melges 24-style deck mold that is wider. “I’ve heard shore of the island. of one other Olson that’s been modified other than ours,” Salt River Marina is the smallest and farthest west. If your Rowlette says. “I don’t know if there will be more, but it works boat draws more than six feet, don’t come in here. Services are well for us.” limited to dockside power and water, a small marine store, resTwenty-six boats representing all three U.S. Virgin Istaurant and dive shop, but the water sports are wonderful. lands, the British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, competed Kayak through the mangroves or dive the Salt River Canyon, in as many as 11 races over windward-leeward courses set in one of the ten most spectacular dive sites in the Caribbean. the Buck Island Channel. Although the turnout proved smaller St. Croix Marine is in Gallows Bay, right next to the main than last year, the competition was keener than ever with anchorage in the Christiansted harbor. This 60-slip marina many ties and only seconds separating scores throughout the offers a large repertoire of repair services, marine store and racing. dockside amenities. Supermarkets, restaurants, banks, a post While other regattas in the region are much bigger, the office and Internet café are within walking distance. St. Croix event is creating its niche as a family event. “It’s a Green Cay Marina, to the east and nearest to Buck Issmall, old-time friendly regatta with the benefit of top-notch land, boasts 150 slips and many amenities. race management. All the boats are private, not charter, and You don’t need a cruising permit to sail St. Croix or to while there are some very good sailors, none are professionclear Customs and Immigration, located in Christiansted, als,” says regatta director, Julie San Martin. unless you haven’t done so already in Puerto Rico, St. ThoTo enhance this family-oriented image, the St. Croix Yacht mas or St. John. But if you do fall in love with St. Croix and Club hosted its first annual Valentine’s Day Optimist Regatta want to stay longer than six months, you do need to register simultaneously. The event saw seventeen 7- to 13-year olds your vessel with the Virgin Islands Department of Planning from the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Long Island, NY, & Natural Resources. compete. LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Southwinds
April 2004
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TROPICAL PIPELINE
Brewers Bay showing reefs and one lone cruiser in the informal anchorage. Photo by Mike Kirk.
Saving Money in the Caribbean: Cruising the Virgin Islands on $25! By Mike Kirk.
T
he rising cost of mooring fees, combined with the pro liferation of new moorings in many of the available wellknown anchorages of the BVI, is sadly diluting some of the charm of these wonderful sailing waters. Consider the following discretionary costs: An overnight mooring anywhere in the BVI is $25 per day. The BVI parks permit to use day moorings is $10 per week. That’s a total of $370 for a two week cruise. Hot off the press is the news that the USVI has imple-
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mented its long threatened charging system of $15 per day for its moorings. (When these were free, I always thought this a good example of “my tax dollars at work” and perversely enjoyed my free nights when cruising neighboring St. John.) So, what’s a sailor to do? Let’s consider an itinerary that would combine the elements of beauty and local color that veteran cruisers remember, without the cost burden to the community (rum) chest. So here we go with my pick of places to anchor at no charge, and get the best use out of your cruising permit. (The mandatory government cruising permit is $2 per person per day) Starting from either Road Town or Nanny Cay, an easy first half-day will get you to either Benures Bay on the north shore of Norman Island (if the wind is SE) or Key Bay on the south west shore of Peter Island—west of Key Point (if the wind is NE). The approach to Benures is in deep water, but a comfortable anchorage can be found in the NE corner under a peaceful shore for a quiet swim which you might share with one or two boats. Approach Key Bay just to the west of Key Cay and tuck in under Key Point. The water shallows early as you approach from the south, but you can carry eight feet quite close to shore. Peace and quiet will be found with one or two other discriminating souls. If you dinghy over to the west side of the bay, watch for the reef projecting into the bay. www.southwindssailing.com
Snorkeling off the point looks good. Sailing east, you may want to anchor off the north shore of Salt Island for a lunch stop. Until recently the salt was still collected here from the pond (the family owners still pay a small fee to Her Majesty). Walk over the beach to see how the water leaves a foamy salt residue which if skimmed carefully will crystallize into sea salt. Walk to the west and you will find the small informal graveyard of the crew of the sunken HMS Rhone that now forms the famous dive site west of the island. If you must do Cooper Island then have lunch there on their moorings. Snorkeling is good for novices at Cooper from the beach in shallow water. Move on after lunch for an overnight in Trellis Bay. Wait a minute. Trellis is full of moorings isn’t it? Yes but I like to keep my happy hour ride short by anchoring among the little fleet of live-a-boards close to De Loose Mongoose. Some creative depth sounder mapping is necessary but those live-a-boards are not paying $25 per night so why should you? I am assuming at this point that you and your “lovely” have the sister and brother-in-law along, and someone “always wanted to go” to the Bitter End. So go ahead, splurge, and pay the darn mooring fee. I consider this good value and do not begrudge the $25 spent here. Hey, you can have a warm shower and invariably listen to a good band on shore—well worth the $6.25/person. For the purist, anchor in Gorda east of Mosquito Island and keep the cruise cost truly virgin! Anegada has lost much of its threatening mystery since the advent of GPS. The channel is now marked (but only with teeny weeny buoys that are still hard to find)—so use your GPS diligently. Strength in numbers has created a conveyor belt of boats setting out from Gorda Sound every morning for the 17 miles into the unknown. Since nature has not changed and the currents and reefs are just as they always were, all the old cautions still hold. Follow your charter company instructions to enjoy a free anchorage and fresh lobster at Neptune’s Treasure restaurant. Experience the hospitality of the Soares family who came to this island from Bermuda for the fishing and slowly built a charming compound here, including a small hotel and ice cream store! Most of the fresh fish for the BVI is provided by the family’s “long line” fish-
LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
ing efforts. Your longest day sail from either Gorda Sound or Anegada will take you west to either Cane Garden Bay on Tortola’s north shore or to Great Harbour on Jost van Dyke. In Cane, shun the mooring field and head into the NE corner as close to Quito’s bar as your depth sounder will allow. As always stay out of Cane if a north swell is predicted (driven down from the North Atlantic highs). Warnings should be given on the forecast one or two days in advance. In Great Harbour, Jost van Dyke, you have your choice of location anywhere in the bay. It’s a muddy bottom & quite deep in parts of the center. So map an area with your depth sounder in about 15 to 20 feet and lay good scope. Check the neighbors to see if they are on one or two anchors for swinging logistics. For solitude which is lacking in Cane and Great Harbor, you may want my wild card. If your charter company allows (or it’s your own boat), try Brewers Bay just NE of Cane. The same cautions about north swells apply here. Brewers’ has reefs stretching out from the east shore and in the center (!), but there is access. Approach somewhat to the left of center of the bay with good sun overhead and a man on the bow. There is a sandy bottom all the way into a safe anchorage between a reef on the east shore and a reef finger filling the center of the bay. You will be alone most of the time except for an occasional exclusive private charter. There are day buoys off both the east and west points of the bay. Okay, so you have to make it back to Drakes Channel somehow. Head back from Jost or Cane via Thatch Island Cut. Prepare for some spirited tacking against the current and wind heading east toward Little Harbour Peter Island—put your reef in before you start if the crew is not experienced. The approach to Little Harbor is in deep water and you will need to get close to shore for anchoring depth. Some boats tie astern to shore in the Mediterranean style to prevent swinging. Returning from Little Harbor (or Key Bay or Benures) you will finish your cruise on a resounding reach to Tortola. Capture a “digital camera moment” of the brother-in-law at the wheel and you will cement the family relations until at least next Thanksgiving.
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April 2004
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www.southwindssailing.com
The Slip Crisis: Lowering the Cost of Sailboat Ownership By Stan Zimmerman
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n the past decade, a substantial number of Florida marinas became condominiums. Planning boards agreed with devel opers that the “highest and best use” of the waterfront land was not a boat owner paying $100 per month for a slip. It was a yankee or a foreigner paying a million or more for a waterfront view. It made economic sense to everybody but the boater. Other marinas made a direct conversion to “dock-ominiums,” where the docks themselves were sold to investors and speculators for unbelievable sums. As it turns out, those speculators were smart to pay those prices, because those same docks today sell for several times their original prices. Meanwhile, the permitting process to authorize construction of a new marina is mind-boggling. If the sea grass don’t getcha, the manatee regulations will. Even if you could afford the bay bottom lease from the state, the construction costs (padded with liability insurance for everything from a sprained back to a massive oil spill) would bankrupt you. Assuming anybody would loan you money to build a marina instead of a condo. Where have all the boat slips gone? Gone to condos, every one. When will we ever learn? When will we ever learn? The affordable boat slip may be Florida’s most endangered phenomenon, as supply-and-demand torques prices. We’re already seeing it, not only in higher slip fees, but also in longer waiting lists. Boating in Florida is on the verge of becoming a rich-person-only activity. Unless you can keep your boat on a trailer, you’re going to get squeezed right out of the market. Sailors are the most affected. If you don’t want to pay $3,000 or more every year to rent a slip, you can either sell the boat, or put it on a trailer. Once the sailboat’s on wheels, “going sailing” becomes a major production. Rig the boat for travel, rig the stick after arrival, rig for sailing, go sailing…and then reverse the process. It turns an afternoon jaunt into a complex ordeal. You can witness the fallout already. Walk through any municipal marina and look for a smaller sailboat, something less than 24 feet, sitting in a rented slip. I’ll wager you won’t find many. While it appears boat sizes are getting bigger, in fact, boat registrations in Florida are growing in all size categories. But that growth is not reflected, for example, in local sailing club races where small boats are flourishing but PHRF is lagging. There is a solution, one being embraced along the West Coast of Florida, that can keep boat storage costs under control while allowing sailboat skippers to “get in and go.” From Key West to Bradenton Beach, officials are taking steps to create mooring fields in their local waters. Until condo developers can get permission to build multi-story Stiltsvilles in open water, these moorings should be safe. The state of Florida has been surprisingly receptive to the idea of establishing municipal moorings. The state owns all submerged lands (well, not every bit, but the huge majority), and can lease those lands. Private users–condominium associations, for-profit marinas, and private clubs–have to pay hefty annual fees to use the bay bottom. But not-for-profit organizations (inLOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
cluding cities and towns) pay nothing for the submerged land, if it’s used for a public purpose. Florida regulators have demonstrated their belief that municipally-operated moorings on state-owned bay bottom meet a public purpose, and have been very supportive in allowing cities to establish moorings for residents and visitors. New municipal moorings are flourishing in Stuart and Key West. Early warning says the town of Ft. Myers Beach has signed the state lease to start one too. Sarasota has two in the works, and Bradenton Beach is looking into it. Moorings are the coming thing. While state and municipal support for moorings is strong in Florida, the resistance comes ironically from some boaters. Many communities already have “unofficial” moorings. Book Key Harbor in Marathon and Island Park in Sarasota come to mind, and in these two cases, it’s the moored boaters themselves who are upset with plans to “legitimize” their moorings. Instead of banding together to fight for boater-friendly rules, they pout and say, “This is my mooring. I paid for it, it’s mine, and I won’t let anybody take it away.” This is exactly what could happen when the water cops show up and ask to see their state permit to use the bay bottom. Moorings are coming, and it’s a good thing, because it will keep boating affordable. Smart boaters should get on the side of progress and actively cooperate when their city begins to consider the idea of a municipal mooring field. Remember, many local officials are not boaters, don’t understand winds and tides, and might see the moorings as just another source of revenue. It will take boaters to teach them about the difference between a lee shore and protected shelter. Stan Zimmerman is a member of the Sarasota Sailing Squadron’s board, a former member of the Southwest Florida Harbor Board, journalist, author, and sailor.
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Birth of a Cat, Part I: Buying a 34-foot Catamaran Hull From a Factory in South Africa & Finishing it in North Carolina. By John Kelly ance, tax, slip fees or maintenance bills; no more worries about the next hurricane, the next haulout, the next bottom job. But there was a void in our lifestyle, and we were just not ready to move into the RV world yet. They say that the stages in a sailboater ’s life are: Monohull, catamaran, trawler, RV and then you die. We seem to be hung up in stage two, loving the flexibility of our previous Prout cat.
Jan 30, 2004:
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squint hard as the fuzzy e-mail pictures scroll down our screen. We feel like NASA Mars Rover engineers as we anxiously await the next JPEG images. Before us is the first graphic evidence that our boat’s creation has actually commenced: A large container of vinylester resin (with its expiration date clearly in view), grainy pictures of the hull molds with our hull layup in progress, shots of the PROUT HISTORY interior liner and its compoProut catamarans have had nents taking shape. Our an interesting history. The ‘baby’ is gestating. Prout brothers, Roland and It all started seven months Francis, started the catamaago when we sold our ran concept way back in ocean-going Prout Quest 33 The Meercat 34, formerly the Prout Event 34. 1947 by lashing two canoes catamaran, Madeline, a vestogether. Over the years, sel in which the previous owners had circumnavigated and Prout UK had produced hundreds of cats, from the lowly 26 that we used to cruise the entire U.S. East Coast, Nova Scotia, foot Sirocco to the larger 64 ft Prout Panther Power cat. Bermuda and the Bahamas Islands’ chain. Their half-a-century of catamaran development and inBeing boatless did have its advantages: No more insurnovation led Lloyds of London to accept the Prout database on multi-hull design and use it as criteria for a benchmark for other builders. In the late ‘90s, however, Prout U.K. fell on hard times and went into receivership. The company was broken up, and the molds were sold and scattered throughout the world. The 34foot molds—formerly the Prout Event 34 and now called the Meercat 34—were bought by Peter Matthews from the U.K., who set up shop in Durban, South Africa. This factory has produced nine Prout 34s for the U.K. and U.S. markets and was rudely interrupted by the untimely death of Matthews. The business was dormant for some time, as the assets became part of an estate. In July, 2002, Roy Bowden, a marine engineer, boat builder and long-time sailor, was appointed by the controlling company to manage the Prout operation in South Africa. We’ll be the third Meercat 34 built under Roy’s management. 36
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www.southwindssailing.com
South Africans have been building catamarans for the world market from the early 1980s and have developed a reputation for quality and expertise. Boats built here include the Leopard 42 sailing cat, the Parlay 40-foot, Royal Cape Cat (45 foot), the St. Francis cat and a host of other mono hull designs, including the Leisure 42-foot. The latest Prout design, the Prout 43, is being developed by the sister company of Prout S.A., Concordia Yachting in Thailand, run by Andy Pitt. The 43 was developed for the charter market and is the latest, state of the art, catamaran design. This boat is destined to be built at the Durban factory. Bowden’s background is typical of South African boat builders: experienced and very skilled. Among other things, his claim to fame was his involvement with the 1998 singlehanded ocean crossing by the intrepid blind sailor, Geoff Hilton-Barber, a 5200-mile ocean crossing from Durban, South Africa, to Freemantle, Australia. Roy refitted Barber’s Charger 33 with upgraded navigation and communications gear and helped Geoff train for this feat.
THE PLAN Our plan seemed simple: Contract to have a semi-complete vessel built. Have it shipped close enough to our home port, finish it out and sail happily until the RV days were upon us. It was, however, a laborious, and at times, agonizing decision. We wanted a new boat that had the capability and flexibility of our older cat, one that we could afford, and one that we could fit out ourselves. As a marine surveyor, I felt as if I had the expertise to judge a quality boat, but before we signed on the dotted line, we had to see for ourselves. We acquired standby tickets and flew to Cape Town, South Africa, via London, caught the local airline flight to Durban and with extreme skepticism, visited Roy and his operation. His factory is tiny in comparison to U.S. production facilities, and the term “handmade” is quite evident there. During our two-day visit, I inspected the molds, lay-up schedules, deck fittings, hatches and anything else Roy had around. We also had a good look at a recently-built semi-completed Meercat 34—identical to ours—and bought by a South African sailor to be finished in Cape Town. After considerable discussion, a few beers and agreement on the specifications and delivery, we entered into a contract with Prout SA for our vessel to be built and delivered to Charleston, SC, late spring, 2004.
LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
THE SPECS Broadly speaking, it needed to be affordable and complete enough to “drive” home. We need to be capable enough to finish it and maintain the project within our budget. My skills are limited; I wouldn’t attempt to construct major portions of the vessel (bulkheads, cabinetry, etc), but am confident enough to install wiring, plumbing, equipment and electronics. The sailing rig I’ll contract out here. Within these criteria, the factory will complete the majority of the interior, install the engines, plumb in the fuel, water, head, holding tanks, fit the steering gear and add her bottom paint. She’ll also have her hatches, chainplates, bow and stern rails installed and have minimal wiring and plumbing in place. She’ll be driveable, but nowhere near cruising condition. Her hull and deck lay-up will be to Lloyd’s approved design and construction criteria, employing ‘C’ glass tissue laid up with Vinylester resins as the hull barrier coat and the inside of the water tanks to forestall osmotic blistering. High stress areas — bulkheads attachment, chainplate, deck hardware mounting areas, etc. — will be re-enforced to include an overlap joint that doubles the lay-up across her bottom. Our vessel will also have re-enforced areas at the leading edge of the hull, adding additional foam and glass. We’ve slid our cat into places no mono would dare to go. She’ll have twin Volvo MD 2020, 19-hp sail drives with 30-gallon stainless steel fuel tanks and hydraulic steering. Her coach roof sides will be colored, embedded gelcoat. So why have a boat built 6000 miles from us, and with no dealership network yet set up in the United States? As we discussed with the builder, this deal is based on a proven design, our experience with smaller cruising cats, and our gut feeling on doing business with Roy and his operation. I do, however, intend to be present during the sea trial prior to shipment. The next challenge (other than making the next two payments) is to name her. Hopefully we’ll come up with something clever and “cat-like.” John’s next update will cover the factory completion and sea trial. John Kelly is a NAMS-certified marine surveyor based in Wilmington, NC. A former USAF colonel and jet pilot, he holds a USCG 100-ton Masters certificate with sailing and towing endorsements. He and his wife Jill have owned and cruised monos and cats for over 20 years.
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SOUTHERN SAILING
Why Does the Same Guy Win Most of the Races? By Dave Ellis
T
here is one sailor in most fleets that just seems to always win the races. Yes, every once in a while somebody else gets in there. But usually it is the same sailor in the front of the fleet race after race. This seems to be the case in small fleets of “fun boats” and big fleets of competitive Snipes, 505s, Stars, J-24s, Farr 40s, and even the America’s Cup. “What is it that they have that I don’t,” you ask. Of course, if that’s you that always wins, either you are really good or you need to sail in a more competitive fleet. There have been fleets that have withered away when near parity in racing became a parade when one fleet member bought a superior boat and sails or a newcomer had constant wins over the rest. Yet the other sailors in the fleet are successful business people, well educated and skilled in other aspects of life. Why is it that a skilled surgeon, for example, may always end up in the middle of the pack after studying the sport, practicing and making sure the boat and equipment are the best there is? Very recently an elite group has emerged that has raised the bar of skill. There are some common factors among the top racers. What are some of the attributes that make them so successful in the sport of sailing? Attention Span: Successful sailors, crew and skipper, have the
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ability to concentrate on their job for long periods of time. The focus is beyond the ordinary. Steve Colgate injured his neck while crossing the Atlantic because of long hours staring up at the spinnaker. “Super” Henry Sprague led the fleet in his Finn well past the windward mark, locked in to going fast, concentrating on sailing. (He needed a crew.) Notice how soon after the start of a race the winners seem to be already out ahead? They have the concentration to think about the start, the course, the other boats, yet still sail the boat to its optimum. Most of us can think about a couple of these factors at once, but not all. Powers of Observation: The winners notice things. Most of us can tell when we have been headed. The jib luffs, the windward telltale goes forward, the boat stands up and slows. But the great sailor can immediately tell when they have been lifted. To most of us, the boat still feels fast, is heeled the same, the jib is full, the leeward telltale is still flowing. The fast sailor can tell that they are able to point a bit higher even before that leeward telltale stalls. This is a skill that is more difficult in light air and very heavy air. Notice that there is usually more gap from the front to the back of a big fleet in these conditions. The top sailor will change the boat for each puff, each lull, each change in sea condition, change it to go fast, to go high, in clear air and foul.
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Why do the winning sailors seem to be where the shift is more of the time and seem to be in the puffs? Perhaps they have studied the local area, have noticed the conditions on the way out to the racecourse, have continued to observe the area to windward before and during the starting sequence, have noted boats to windward to see how they are sailing on different parts of the course. Perhaps they notice clouds forming, birds feeding on tide-lines, patches of seaweed on the course, powerboat wakes that one can choose to crash into on one tack or ride on the other, before they get to them. They have sailed alongside competitors to see how their boats are set up and what the relative speed is. Boat Preparation: It is true that the really top sailors can win in most anything. Ethan Bixby traded boats with a new sailor in the last race of a Windmill Regatta in St. Petersburg. Ethan s boat naturally was slick, fast, had new sails, and everything worked. The newcomer had a boat borrowed from Dennis Snell, who hasn t sailed in two decades. The boat is used once a year for this regatta. The newcomer did better than ever that race with a second, right after Ethan in the beat-up boat. Generally, however, the top sailor pays careful attention to his mount. But there is less benefit to buy a new sail if the fairlead track won t move, the cam cleat slips or the line we use hockles every time we pull it in. Have you seen the finish on the com-
petitive Stars and Etchells? They are like mirrors. They even polish the mast. Great Eyesight: Powers of observation depend on good eyesight. In 1985, one of the instructors in Offshore Sailing School s spring racing clinic was Bill Shore, a top sailor in the Lightning class, among others. In the regatta for students on the final day, all of us instructors helpers were on a boat with Bill, watching the race. W ell, uhhhh, said Bill in his characteristic way. That boat is about to hit a patch of seaweed. The rest of us strained to look upwind into the sun to see anything on the water. Finally Kirk grabbed binoculars and looked. Sure enough, the boat was plowing through a patch of seaweed. Many top sailors are blessed with excellent vision. Dave Ullman is still a top sailor. But years in the sun without good sunglasses caused a diminished ability to see peripherally. His sailing suffered noticeably. He is still better than most of us and a top coach. Skill: Those at the top of sailing often are skilled in other sports. Perhaps the best natural sailor I had in twelve years of summer classes at the St. Petersburg Sailing Center was a nine-year-old See SOUTHERN SAILING continued on page 69
SOUTHERN RACING THE SOUTHEAST COAST: CAROLINAS AND GEORGIA UPCOMING EVENTS ALONG THE SOUTHEAST COAST: SPRING SAILING AT LAST By Rona Garm During the time our neighbors to the North have been frostbiting, sailors in the Carolinas have been holding out for warm weather and planned their schedules accordingly. While Charleston, SC, hosts their annual boat show the first weekend in April, Wilmington area residents enjoy the ever popular Azalea Festival – this year with a cruise to the downtown festivities hosted by the Wrightsville Beach Ocean Racing Association (www.wbora.org). Just down the river in Southport, the Cape Fear Yacht Club (www.cfycnc.com) will be holding their first PHRF race of the season. Of course, some sailors will make the trek inland to Columbia, SC, for the Southeast Lightning District’s Midlands Regatta (www.sailsoutheast.org). And that’s just the first weekend! With the Easter holiday falling on the second weekend, the J24s head to Columbia (SC) for their Annual Easter Regatta (www.j24d8.org) – attracting racers from Florida to the bay. The Southport Sailing Club (www.southportsailing.com) invites members to a Saturday evening Chili Fest while WBORA will run an “Alternate Course” Race/Cruise. Weekend number three puts Southport back on the map for the CFYC Rocket Regatta and Lake Norman (www.lakenormanyachtclub.com) hosts the NC State Laser Championships on Saturday and Sunday with a Blessing of the Fleet on Sunday. Anderson (SC) plays host to a US Sailing Small Boat Level 1 Instructor Course this same weekend, while Greensboro (NC) is the site of a Wilderness First Aid course. The last weekend in April finds little Oriental (NC) hosting a not so little boat show, the Lightnings up at Lake Wylie, and WBORA hosting their Bud Cup Crew Scramble – even more fun than it sounds. And that’s just the beginning of the season.
FOR WEST FLORIDA RACING SEE THE WEST FLORIDA SAILING SECTION but spring has arrived. April and May is an excellent time for cruisers to go places with seasonal winds averaging 15 knots. Small boat sailors are splashed with clear waters that are gradually warming into the mid 70s while average air temps creep up into the 80s during the day. The Upper Keys Sailing Club has been busy this spring. A few races open to the public this April are the TIB Regatta PHRF Oceanside on the 24th, and the TIB Regatta Bayside on the 25th. Check out their calendar at www.upperkeyssailingclub.com or call (305) 451-9972 for more information. Key West Happenings: The final race of the Annual Wrecker’s Cup Series will take place April 24th. Thanks to Schooner Wharf Bar, Pusser’s Rum and West Marine, this worthwhile event is open to anything with a sail. For more info, go to www.schoonerwharf.com. On April 30th, big boats, schooners, dinghies and crowds of onshore spectators attack each other. Everyone tosses soft foodstuffs or uses water cannons in this playful mock Naval battle as part of the week-long 22nd Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration. The schooners show no mercy and those dinghies better be fast! Key West channel dredging began last month. Signs posted on a small area of the southwestern shore of Fleming Key indicate a temporary no-anchoring zone during the project. Dredging barges will need that area to maneuver.
SOUTHEAST FLORIDA PORTUGUESE WIN 2004 77TH ANNUAL BACARDI CUP STAR CLASS REGATTA MIAMI, MARCH 7-12 Maccausland, Nichol Take First in Day Six Race From www.bacardicup.com
THE FLORIDA KEYS UPCOMING SPRING SAILING EVENTS By Rebecca Burg By local standards it was a cool and windy winter in the Keys,
2002 World Champions Iain Percy and Steve Mitchell win two of the six Bacardi Cup daily races and place 6th overall. Photo by Alex Gort/Bacardi Cup
It’s official. Without sailing the final race in the six-race series, the Portuguese Star Class team of Afonso Domingos and crew Bernardo Santos have won the 2004 Bacardi Cup. They are the first Europeans to win this prestigious sailing regatta since the 40
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SOUTHERN RACING race first sailed with 10 boats in Havana, Cuba in 1927. Canadians Ross Macdonald and Mike Wolfs took second overall and Colin Beashel and David Giles of Australia took third. Americans Howie Shiebler and Will Stout followed in fourth with defending Bacardi Cup champion Peter Bromby and crew Lee White fifth in the final standings. “Winds were shifty all week and we enjoy those conditions,” said Domingos. “This is the best Star Class regatta in the world and we’re honored to have done so well against a fleet of this caliber,” he said. Friday’s race was won by Americans John Maccausland and Brad Nichol with the British team of Iain Percy and Steve Mitchell in second. There was a tiefor third between Beashel and Giles and the French 2003 World champions Xavier Rohart and Pascal Rambeau. “Our next goal is to win the U.S. Olympic Trials and we’ve been working hard to finish really strong, “ said Maccausland. “The Bacardi Cup, which I’ve sailed every year since 1981, is a great event. When you ask sailors which is their favorite event, it’s the Bacardi Cup for sure,” he said. Xavier Rohart admitted that “we finally woke up.” The French team did poorly in the first four races and placed third on the fifth day. The sixth race was delayed more than an hour with unsteady 12-knot winds coming from the north to northeast. After two general recalls, 20 boats jumped the start and were disqualified including many of the Star Class elite – Mark Reynolds (USA), Vince Brun (USA), Marc Pickel(GER), Flavio Marazzi (SUI), Jali Makila.(DEN). “Today wasn’t very good, we went over the line early,” said Reynolds. “You always want to win,” said the former Olympian and Star Class World champion, “but we’re also out here gauging the strength of the competition going into the U.S. Olympic Trials.” The German team of Michael Koch and Markus Koy found the races tough. “We’re not used to such difficult wind conditions. It’s very professional and high level amateur and I’m quite proud to sail against yellow stars,” he said. Results: 1. Afonso Domingos/Bernardo Santos (Portugal), 2. Ross Macdonald/Mike Wolfs (Canada), 3. Colin Beashel/David Giles (Australia), 4. Howie Shiebler/Will Stout (USA), 5. Peter Bromby/Lee White (Bermuda), 6. Iain Percy/Steve Mitchell (UK), 7. John Maccausland/ Brad Nichol (USA), 8. Xavier Rohart/Pascal Rambeau (France), 9. Hans Spitzauer/Andreas Hanakamp (Austria), 10. Flavio Marazzi/Enrico De Maria (Switzerland),
2004 U.S. OLYMPIC TEAM TRIALS SOUTH FLORIDA, FEBRUARY 14-22 From US Sailing The 2004 U.S. Olympic Team trials for five of the nine classes
were held at three different south Florida Yacht Clubs in February. Ft. Lauderdale Yacht Club hosted the trials for the Europe and Finn classes, Key Biscayne Yacht Club hosted the 49er and Yngling classes, and the Miami Yacht Club hosted the Tornado classes. The format for these trials replicates the Olympic games as closely as possible. The winners will be named to the U.S. Olympic team that will represent the U.S. at the XXVIII Olympiad in August in Athens. U.S. yacht racing fans should be praying for light, fluky air at the Olympics, because that pretty much describes the conditions at the just concluded US Olympic Trials in Florida - a single regatta that determined five of the US teams that will go to Athens. Meg Gaillard was able to sit out the last day of the trials (which she did), while Cronin/ Liz Filter/ Nancy Haberland; and John Lovell/ Charlie Ogletree; and Tim Wadlow/ Pete Spaulding were able to sit out the last race, which they did. Our only Olympic sailor to compete in all of the Olympic trials’ races was Kevin Hall (Finn), who won the last race of the event (which he did not have to sail), and he won his class by a whopping 27 points. Hall had previously finished second at the ’96 Olympic Trials in the Laser, and second in the 2000 Olympic Trials in the 49er class. Undeniably, the fact that Hall only picked up sailing the Finn within the last year speaks volumes about the talent that has made him a noteworthy sailor since he won his first world championship in 1986. Now, only the U.S. Star class representatives remain to be chosen, and that will happen on March 18-28, at Coral Reef YC and the US Sailing Center in Miami, FL. Results EUROPE DINGHY (14 boats) - Final results after 16 races w/2 discards at the Lauderdale YC): 1. Meg Gaillard, 15; 2. Krysia Pohl, 34; 3. Christin Feldman, 37. FINN (23 boats) Final results after 16 races w/2 discards at the Lauderdale YC): 1. Kevin Hall, 26; 2. Geoff Ewenson, 53; 3. Eric Oetgen, 55. 49ER (11 boats) Final results after 24 races w/2 discards at the Key Biscayne YC: 1. Tim Wadlow/ Pete Spaulding, 48; 2. Dalton Bergan/ Zack Maxam, 59; 3. Andy Mack/ Adam Lowry, 64. TORNADO (8 boats) Final results after 14 races w/2 discards at the Miami YC: 1. John Lovell/ Charlie Ogletree, 16; 2. Lars Guck/ Jonathan Farrar, 24; 3. Robbie Daniel/ Enrique Rodriguez, 38. YNGLING (6 boats) Final results after 16 races w/2 discards at the Key Biscayne YC: 1. Carol Cronin, Liz Filter and Nancy Haberland 31; 2. Hannah Swett, Joan Touchette and Melissa Purdy, 36; 2. Sally Barkow, Carrie Howe and Debbie Capozzi 38. Complete results: http://www.ussailing.org/Olympics/OlympicTrials/2004/index.asp
BISCAYNE BAY YACHT RACING ASSOCIATION SERIES COCONUT GROVE SAILING CLUB, MIAMI FEBRUARY 22 By Arturo Perez The second race of the BBYRA Series, hosted by Coconut Grove Sailing Club (CGSC) took place under clear blue skies and light winds, ranging from four to six knots. A total of 36 boats came out to compete in six different classes. There were some intense moments in the PHRF #1 and #2 combined start when twelve boats ranging from 27 – 35 feet were jockeying for position with inches to spare when the starting gun went off. Afterwards everyone exchanged their war stories for the day during the awards presentation at CGSC. Results: PHRF#1;1st-Group Therapy/Tom Seghi;2-Sazerac/Gordon Ettie;3-Papermoon/Filippo Bovio; PHRF#2;1st-Mistral/Craig Setzer;2 - Tiburon/Art Perez;3-Xtreme/David Behney;PHRF#3;1st-Avenger/Win Cooper & Richard Mosca;2- Touchtone/Jaime Toppa;3Stoked/Steven Stollman; PHRF#4;1st- Splash/John Degen;2- Albert Kramer;3- Three Gimps/Karen Mitchell;ARF;1st- Finesse/Bill Beavers;2- Treeka/Bud Price;3- Freebird/ Kenneth Ellis;J24;1st- J Tripper/Casstlebeerry/Hansen; 2- I’ll Go/Gonzalo Diaz, Sr;3- Fatso/ Hendryk Dabrowski;
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May 21-23, 2004 • Regatta Pointe Marina – Call for details Palmetto, FL 941-723-1610 • TOLL-FREE 800-375-0130
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Scott Pursell
Frank Hamilton
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SOUTHERN RACING EAST FLORIDA 2004 INTERNATIONAL SUNFISH MASTERS MARCH 11-14 MELBOURNE YACHT CLUB, FL
Vancouver, Canada. The Race Officials were headed by Gary Smith of Melbourne Yacht Club. Smith orchestrated nearly a flawless regatta, officiatingwise, with the support of nearly 30 helpers form Melbourne Yacht Club, each day on the racecourse. Racing began with a practice day on Thursday, March 11. Some 25 racers and most of the R/C were out on the course, working the kinks out. The true regatta started on Friday morning, with 71 sunfish lining up on the starting line. The good weather allowed the fleet to complete 10 races over three days. And by Sunday afternoon, everyone was ready for a hot tub and a liberal dose of Ibuprofen. The regatta lead changed several times over the weekend. One of the early favorites, Michael Catalano of Miami, withdrew on Sunday after one race due to persistent back problems. By the last race on Sunday, Joe Blouin had the regatta sewn up, with consistent 1-2-3 finishes through the weekend.
By Sherry Beckett The Sunfish Masters were held in Melbourne, FL, this year, under the sponsorship of the recently reformed Sunfish Fleet 669, and the Melbourne Yacht Club. The midMarch date turned out a winner for all concerned, with four days of beautiful Florida spring weather (enough wind, sunshine, and not too much heat). Because the MYC facility is a Regatta winner Joe Blouin leads the pack after rounding the weather mark’ or something like that. Photo by John MacNeill. little cramped for launching 70 sunfish, the event was held at nearby Ballard Park. Ballard Park offered pleasant surroundings, a good launching facility, lots of parking, and room to spread out. It was the perfect place for the camaraderie of the Sunfish crowd. By race time Friday, seventy-one “Masters” had registered. Ranging in age from a low of 40 years old, to a high of 86 years old, the fleet included some racers with nearly 30 years of sun- Sunfish rounding the mark at the Masters in Melbourne. Photo by John MacNeill fish sailing, and some with less than a year under their belt. The racers register in one of Results: four classes: Apprentice Masters (age 40-49), Masters (age 50Overall: 1; Joe Blouin,Tampa, FL; 2; Chris Williams,Philadelphia, PA; 3; David Olson,Sarasota, FL; 4; Dick Tillman,Merritt Island, FL; 5; Ron McHenry,Cortland, OH; Apprentice (Age 59), Grand Masters (age 69-69), and Great Grand Masters (age 40-49) 1; Chris Williams,Philadelphia, PA; 2; Paul Strauley,Casselberry, FL;3; Mindy 70 and over). There was no official Women’s class, but there Strauley,Casselberry, FL; Masters (Age 50-59) 1; Joe Blouin,Tampa, FL; 2; Ron were 16 women competing, and the competitive lady Masters McHenry,Cortland, OH; 3; Drew Staniar,Sudby, MA; Grand Masters (Age 60-69) 1; David were definitely keeping an eye on each other during the races. Olson,Sarasota, FL; 2; Dick Tillman,Merritt Island, FL; 3; Jean Bergman,Holland, MI; Great Grand Masters (Age 70 and up) 1; Don Bergman,Holland, MI; 2; Bill Haberland,Satellite Participants in this regatta came from all over the U.S.— Beach, FL; 3; Will White,Arcadia, FL; Ladies (Age 29 and holding) 1; Jean Bergman,Holland, from as far away as Colorado. The “International” claim for MI; 2; Mindy Strauley, Casselberry, FL; 3; Linda Tillman,Merritt Island, FL this year ’s regatta was upheld by one participant from
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THE UPPER GULF COAST UPPER GULF COAST SPRING SAILING: A GREAT SEASON TO SAIL By Kim Kaminski Welcome to springtime sailing along the Gulf Coast. The 150mile stretch of beautiful sugar white sandy beaches and emerald green waters entices many sailors of all ages to venture out onto the local waterways and enjoy the “sailor’s paradise” that awaits them. Springtime weather is ideal with moderate temperatures (low 70s) and moderate breezes (8 to 12 knots) generally out of the east and southeast. These conditions encourage many people to get outdoors and experience the fun that the area has to offer. During this time of year, many of the regional as well as national sailing events are held in this area of the country due to the ideal weather and water conditions. Just recently, the 2004 Sunfish Midwinter National and Team Championships were held at the Pensacola Yacht Club. Sixty-six competitors and their families gathered out on the waters of Pensacola Bay for this four-day sailing event. Trophies were awarded to the overall top ten finishers, in addition the top four U.S. finishers will also qualify for the 2005 Sunfish Worlds Championship which will be held on September 18-25, at the Hyannis Yacht Club in Hyannis, MA. Trophies were also awarded to the top female, top Master over 50 and the top three Juniors (under 18) overall. It was an exciting event. There will be several opportunities for the area sailors in the upcoming month. For instance the Gulf Ocean Racing Circuit will begin on April 2, at the Biloxi Yacht Club in Biloxi MS. This three-day racing event pits members of the Gulf Yachting Association yacht clubs against other member yacht clubs in a best of the best competition. Also on the calendar for April: The Blessing of the Fleet, a local Pensacola tradition where boats of all kinds (sailboats, powerboats, shrimp boats, etc.) sail by in an official ceremony to receive a blessing for a year filled with good fortune and safety out on the local waters. There will be a Commodore’s Cup Race (a spring series regatta) as well as cruising opportunities to one of the favorite local overnight anchorages. On April 19-23, the Corsair sailors will embark on a journey to the Pensacola area to compete in the Corsair Nationals. And of course, the largest raft-up race in the country. Over 150 boats journeyed to Mobile Bay to participate in last year’s event. So...make you plans to enjoy springtime sailing along the Gulf Coast, there is something here for everyone to enjoy.
The 2004 Sunfish Midwinter National and Team Championship was held March 4-7 at the Pensacola Yacht Club. The top four competitors in this event will participate in the World Championship later this year. Photo by Kim Kaminski.
SPRING SAILING CALENDAR FLORIDA PANHANDLE REGION G.O.R.C. (Gulf Ocean Racing Circuit) Biloxi Yacht Club April 3 Blessing of the Fleet, Pensacola Yacht Club/ Navy Yacht Club April 10 Commodore’s Cup Race #2, Navy Yacht Club April 17 Shakedown Cruise (Ft. McRee) Pensacola Beach Yacht Club April 19-23 Corsair Nationals, Pensacola Yacht Club April 24 Dauphin Island Race, Fairhope Yacht Club May 1-2 G.Y.A. (Gulf Yachting Association) Opening Regatta, Ft. Walton Yacht Club April 2-4
LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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SOUTHERN RACING May 8 Sea Buoy Race, Pensacola Beach Yacht Club May 12-13 Regatta al Sol XXIII Pensacola Yacht Club May 15-16 Spring Regatta Buccaneer Yacht Club May 22-23 Navy Cup Navy Yacht Club May 22-23 Laser Gulf Coast Championship Southern Yacht Club May 29 -30 Memorial Day Regatta Pensacola Beach Yacht Club Open evening races - on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, Pensacola Yacht Club from April to October. For additional race schedules check the Gulf Yachting Association website at www.gya.org.
Geronimo Copyright J.M. Liot / DPPI
BAHAMAS RACING REGATTA TIME IN ABACO Last month Southwinds an-
nounced that they had not heard from the group in the Bahamas about whether Regatta Time in Abaco was still holding its annual regatta. We did hear from them, but they had changed all their phone numbers and e-mail addresses. The old contacts were not working anymore. The event is still on and it will be held July 3-10 in Abaco. For more information see the advertisement for the regatta on page 38 and/or go to www.rtia.net.
Orange II Copyright Gilles Martin-Raget
OCEAN RACING MAXI-MULTIHULL OCEAN RACE: GERONIMO, ORANGE II AND CHEYENNE VIE FOR THE AROUND-THE-WORLD SPEED RECORD On February 8, the maxi-catamaran Geronimo, left the start line off the coast of England in another attempt to win the Jules Verne Trophy, the race to hold the round-the-world record for speed by sail. A year ago, Geronimo, skippered by Olivier de Kersauson, who again heads the team this year, failed in an attempt to capture the trophy. This year, the 110foot catamaran, one of the world’s largest ocean racers, which 46
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THE EXTRATERRESTRIAL’S CATAMARAN
Mediatis Région Aquitanian
Yves Parlier, veteran ocean racer, launched his new catamaran recently, the Mediatis Région Aquitanian. The unusual boat carries two masts, one on each hull, but the hull design of “stepped” hulls has drawn equal attention. It is an idea born with seaplanes where Parlier claims it is possible to have one tenth the wetted surface area of traditional multihulls, and only one fourth the drag. The 60-foot cat will be sailed in attempts to break many of the world’s ocean passage records, including the 24hour distance record. Testing began in February and it will race in the Transat in May. Parlier was nicknamed the “extraterrestrial” by fellow sailors for his “otherworldly endurance and courage.” For more information, go to www.yvesparlier.org
boasts a 141-foot tall rotating mast, carries many of the same crew from the 2003 attempt. After the February 8 start this year, several days into the voyage, Geronimo ran into problems and returned to England for repairs. It set out again on February 25, crossing the official start line for the second time during the same month. The World Record Speed Sailing Council was staying busy this year, since they not only had to monitor this second start for Geronimo, but also had to return the following day to observe the huge catamaran Orange II as it departed in pursuit of the same trophy on February 26. Orange II and skipper Bruno Peyron hold the current record and the trophy. They are attempting to break their time of 64 days 8 hours and 37 minutes, set in 2002. For more, go to NK http://www.maxicatamaranorange.com, www.maxicatamaran-orange.com and www.trimaran-geronimo.com. Meanwhile Steve Fosset, on board the 125-foot maxi-catamaran Cheyenne, had departed England on February 7, after waiting for weeks for a good weather window, and he marched forward making good time in his effort to capture the record. Although he is also going for the around-the-world speed record, he is not officially part of the Jules Verne Trophy attempt. As of March 15, Cheyenne was 1720 miles ahead of where Orange II was when they set the record in 2002. Cheyenne appears to be well on its way to setting a new record, but damage to the mast sail track has caused some problems and they still must round the horn, where the world’s winds and waves channel to their narrowest as they go around the world—and it’s a long ways to England from there. For more information go to www.fossettchallenge.com. LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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Regional Sailing Services Directory See page 55 for West Florida Directory MARINE SURVEYORS
SAILING INSTRUCTION/SCHOOLS
John Kellyy ................... Serving the Carolinas NAMS Certified Marine Surveyor. 100-ton ocean master & offshore catamaran owner www.yachtsurveyor.com ........ (910) 392-5054
Floridaze Sailing School Pensacola ASA * Basic Instructon through Chartering www.floridazesailing.com ......(850) 934-7924
OUTBOARD MOTOR REPAIR Boaters Exchange ....................... East Florida All brands, specializing in Honda, Suzuki, Tohatsu, and Nissan. “The friendlist outboard repair on the East Coast!” Rockledge ............................. (321)638-0090
Oriental’s School of Sailing N. Carolina US Sailing Basic Keelboat Certification Oriental, NC. (252) 249-0960 www.sailingschooloriental.com Windward Sailling School NE Florida ASA Instructor of the year 2002-2003 Certifications from basic sailing through Bareboat Chartering, Keelboat, etc. www.windwardsailing.com Fernandina Beach, FL ........... (904) 261-9125
RIGGING SERVICES
SAILMAKING, REPAIRING AND CLEANING CALVERT SAILS UPPER FLORIDA KEYS Multihull and Monohull sails, racing/cruising 250 Industrial Drive, Islamorada (305) 664-8056 ........... www.calvertsails.com GESLIN SAILMAKERS KEY WEST 201 William St. (305) 294-5854 ......... southwindssailing.com North Sails South Carolina Complete Sailmaking Services North Charleston, SC ........... (843) 744-7245 SUPER SAILMAKERS FT. LAUDERDALE Quality custom sails, repairs since 1973 (800) 541-7601 ............ supersailmakers.com Wind Dancer Sailmakers NE Florida Sailmaking and repairs Jacksonville, FL ..................... (904) 384-3102
Beach St.Canvas/Rigging East Florida Canvas & Rigging Services, Upholstery Daytona Beach, Florida. (386) 253-6355 Rick Zern. Florida’s Panhandle Rigging Services Gulf Breeze, FL rick@zernrigging.com .......... (850) 261-4219
Advertise in this 2” tall ad for $34 a Month introductory rates to the new Sailing Services Directory.
Advertise in this 1" tall ad for $20 a month. See page 36 for details or call (941) 795-8704. ADVERTISE FOR $8-10 A MONTH rent a 3 line ad for $8 a month and a four line ad for $10 a month – see page 36 for more details or call ...................... (941) 795-8704
See page 36 for details or call (941) 795-8704.
ADVERTISE YOUR SAILING SERVICES IN OUR NEW DIRECTORY. See the sample ads in the directory above for prices. Contact a sales representative for advertising. Steve Morrell editor@southwindssailing.com (941) 795-8704 Florida Keys Rebecca Burg angel@artoffshore.com (305) 304-5118
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Gary Hufford gary@southwindssailing.com (727) 585-2814
The Southeast Coast: Carolinas and Georgia Rona Garm rgarm@ec.rr.com (910) 395-0189
The Northern Gulf Coast: Florida Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas Kim Kaminski Kaminski_K@msn.com (850) 384-8941 www.southwindssailing.com
Coming Soon!
In coming months, Southwinds magazine will be adding regional sections to cover sailing events in the following regions. This month we have begun one region called West Florida Sailing covering the west coast of the Florida peninsula. The regions we will be adding in the coming months will be: ■ The Southeast Coast: North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia ■ The Northern Gulf Coast: The Florida Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas ■ East Florida: From the central east coast of Florida to the Georgia line ■ Southeast Florida: From the central east coast of Florida south into Miami ■ The Florida Keys
We will be offering more and better local coverage in these areas with the following: ■ Racing News and a Racing Calendar ■ Cruising, Gunkholing and News ■ Upcoming Events Calendar ■ General Sailing News ■ Sailing Services Directory for Businesses
Advertisers will be able to better reach sailors in their region. Call your advertising representative today. Steve Morrell
editor@southwindssailing.com (941) 795-8704
Gary Hufford
gary@southwindssailing.com
(727) 585-2814
angel@artoffshore.com
(305) 304-5118
Florida Keys Rebecca Burg
The Southeast Coast: Carolinas and Georgia Rona Garm
rgarm@ec.rr.com
(910) 395-0189
The Northern Gulf Coast: Florida Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas Kim Kaminski
LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Kaminski_K@msn.com
(850) 384-8941
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Cedar Key to Cape Sable Racing News & Calendar Cruising Upcoming Events Calendar West Florida News for Sailors Sailing Services Directory SAILING IN APRIL From the Ten Thousand Islands, into Tampa Bay, up to the Big Bend and on all the myriad lakes to their east, April gives us superb sailing conditions. Scores of regattas fill the winter months, drawing sailors and their dollars to sail in what we call cold weather and they call paradise. But by now they are gone, leaving the bays and lakes to us. The few cold fronts that make it past the tropical jet stream that cuts across north Florida lose the punch they have in March. Often their passage is only noticed by the wind change to the Northwest and drier air. Evening sailing becomes more practical with daylight savings time starting this month. The bane of evening sailing in Florida is the thunderstorm, but the likelihood of thunderstorms being pushed across the state by the stronger sea breeze from Florida’s East Coast is much less than in summer months. The humidity and extreme heat needed to produce those monstrous storms is lacking in April. Ironically, the best sea breeze on the west coast is in the spring. The water has not yet heated up to its summer levels, but air temperatures often reach daytime highs into the 80s. The temperature differential between water and heat-soaking land is never better. Your sailing sea breeze may begin earlier and stay longer after sunset than at any other time of year. For sailors on the Gulf coast, be aware of the increased tidal activity the first and third weekend of April with the latter having the darkened moon. Suncoast Raceweek (April 2-4) on Tampa Bay has long taken advantage of April weather. They actually go from club to club, rather than around buoys. Well, there will be some buoys on the third day of the series when the boats race out of the Treasure Island Yacht Club. Navigation and planning skills will be needed for the jaunt down the bay from the St. Pete Yacht Club to Bradenton and then Saturday from Bradenton out the entrance of Tampa Bay to John’s Pass. Farther south, the Sarasota Bay Cup (April 24), organized by the Venice Yacht Club and the Venice Sailing Squadron, also goes from place to place. Nothing comes close, however, to going where the Regata del Sol al Sol goes. Starting from near the Municipal Pier in St. Petersburg on April 20 and 21, just as the Havana Race and SORC did of old, boats head down the bay, out the pass and into the Gulf. For at least three days the fastest boats will be out of sight of land, and much longer for the smaller boats in light air. With a nominal distance of 456 miles, this race ranks up there with others that are longer in distance because there are no landmarks to take fixes on with the trusty handheld compass. There is no land until you get there, unless a boat wanders too close to Cuba, which is prohibited in the sailing instructions. Keep a good dead-reckoning log. GPS is wonderful, but, like the note on the chart, “A prudent navigator does not rely on one method of navigation.” If anyone was cavalier about this journey across the Gulf of Mexico to Isla Mujeres, Mexico, their attitude changes when the requirements for the boat are noted. Know where to rent a proper life raft? Where do I mount it? What’s SOLAS? April brings wind without the storms, warmth without the heat, water that is not too cold or bathtub hot, and the mosquitoes aren’t bad. Let’s go sailing!
Cedar Key
St. Petersburg
Tampa
Fort Myers Naples
April Prevailing Winds See page 32 for Windrose legend
Cape Sable Key West
West Florida April Weather AVERAGE TEMPERATURES St. Petersburg 65 loo - 85o hi Naples 62o lo - 83o hi GULF WATER TEMPERATURE St. Petersburg 74o Naples 77o For real-time Eastern Gulf weather, winds and marine forecasts, go to http://comps.marine.usf.edu
Events Calendar
West Florida Sailing
To have your event put in the Events Calendar, e-mail editor@southwindssailing.com or fax (941) 795-8704 (we prefer e-mail — please don’t phone them in unless unusual circumstances) by the 10th of the month. The Events Calendar is for any event, marine related, of interest to sailors. It is not intended to be advertisement for commercial purposes but events open to the public for free or that don’t cost very much, or targeting a specific group of sailors, like a rendezvous or similar event.
APRIL Nightly – Sunsets at Pier 60. A year round street festival featuring local artisans and performers. Free. Two hours before and after sunset. Clearwater Beach just south of Hilton Resort. (727) 449-1036 http://www.sunsetsatpier60.com/ April 1 – The end of Florida lobster season was extended past midnight last night indefinitely because of too many huge lobster out there. Nope. Sorry. It did end. April Fools. Season reopens July 28-29 for the sport season and August 6 for the regular season. April 3-4 – Sunrise Seafood Festival, Charlotte County Fair Association. 2333 El Jobean Road, Port Charlotte. Old Florida Crafts, southern food, live entertainment, folk music, storytelling, antique car display. $3, children under 10 free. 10:00 a.m. (941) 629-4252 April 4 – Spring forward daylight savings time and the full moon – must be some significance here. If you are going to race on Sunday, make sure you know the correct time and don’t oversleep. Set the clock forward one hour. April 4 – Seafood Festival. Downtown Bradenton on the water. Live entertainment including country/western, gospel, rockn-roll, craft booths boat show, classic car show and a children’s area. Hernando De Soto Historical Society (941) 747-1998. April 13 – Bradenton Plastic Bottle Boat Regatta. Location: To be determined. Experience the extremely popular Plastic Bottle Boat Regatta, various teams build boats that float on plastic bottles and have only a paddle for propulsion. Contestants race to determine who’s the fastest, and most stylish. Bayside viewing for all with food and beverages available. Hernando De Soto Historical Society (941) 747-1998 April 8-11 – Organizers of the Rolex Women’s Match and the St. Petersburg Yacht Club in St. Petersburg, Fla. will offer an introductory match-racing clinic with World Match Racing Champion and America’s Cup sailor Ed Baird. The two-day clinic will take place April 7-8 and precedes the four-day Rolex Women’s Match scheduled for April 8-11. The clinic and regatta will be raced in Sonar class keelboats on Tampa Bay. “This is an excellent opportunity to learn about match racing through classroom instruction and practical on-the-water drills with one of the world’s most experienced match racers and coaches,” said Pat Seidenspinner, chairman of the Rolex Women’s Match. LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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Events Calendar continued
The Rolex Women’s Match is an International Sailing Federation (ISAF) grade 4 event and was created in 2002 to introduce women sailors to match racing. For more information or to register, contact Pat Seidenspinner at 727-522-0723 or pseidens@tampabay.rr.com. For more information about the Rolex Women’s Match, go to www.rolexwomensmatch.org. April 15 – pay Uncle Sam. April 16-18 – Sunsets Beach Fest, Clearwater Beach. Three days of great music, food, and fun. On the sand south of Pier 60, the state of the art stage and sound system showcases local and national artists in a variety of music styles. Local restaurants and vendors provide a wide variety of seafood and native Florida cuisine. Featured also are artisans and crafters, street performers, carnival rides, and a spectacular fireworks display over the waters off Pier 60. (727) 449-1036. April 17, 8 am-4 pm – Recycle Regatta and sail painting at North Shore Park in St. Petersburg. Students build boats out of recycled materials. This event is the kick-off event for the ten-day Regata del Sol al Sol race to Mexico. For more information, call (727) 464-3896. or www.regatadelsolalsol.org. April 17, 5:30-10 pm – Regata Del Sol “Get Downtown at Night” Street Party, St. Petersburg Central Avenue between 2nd and 3rd Street. The streets will be blocked off, Music by ALLON SAMS, compliments of Smooth Jazz – WSJT. Corona will have a beer truck. Restaurants and shops will be open and there will be dancing in the streets! Don’t miss this one. April 17-18 – 27th Annual Mainsail Arts Festival. Expect 300 artists for this nationally ranked (“100 Best Fine Art Shows.”) Arts & craft demonstrations, a children’s arts activity tent and culinary arts/food vendors. Live musical entertainment. Hours: Sat. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. & Sun. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Event is held along the beautiful waterfront setting of North Straub Park in downtown St. Petersburg, located at Beach Drive and 5th Avenue NE. (727) 892-5885. This festival has a great name. http://www.mainsailartsfestival.org. April 17 – Marine Flea Market. The Tampa Bay Sailing Squadron (TSS) Youth Sailing Program is holding a marine flea market 8:00 a.m. The TSS Youth Sailing Program is a registered nonprofit organization dedicated to the betterment of youth through challenge. The market will be held on TSS grounds located on Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach next to Lands End Marina and Circles restaurant. All proceeds will be used to support the TSS Youth Sailing summer program. You may come to sell, buy or trade. Sellers will pay a ten-dollar fee per ten-foot parcel of space. You may also elect to donate items to the program for sale by the program (receipts will be provided to givers for all donated items). Coffee and home baked goods will also be for sale so come early and hungry; buyers leave late and poor. To donate items, reserve a space, or to just find out more about the flea market, or our program, call TSS Youth Sailing Program at (813) 295-5449. April 17 – JSI will be holding the 10th Annual Nautical Flea Market on Saturday, April 17 in their parking lot at 3000 Gandy Blvd. in St. Petersburg. Flea market hours are from 8:00 a.m. till 52
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Local News For Southern Sailors
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Events Calendar continued
(Call the store—reservations sometimes needed)
noon. Spaces are currently available, but hurry they always go fast. Spaces are the size of a parking space and assignment is on a first come first served basis. Come and shop for bargains, sell your old stuff or just browse and have fun talking to other sailors. Call us now to reserve your space at (727) 577-3220 or 800-652-4914 April 22 – Earth Day. Celebrate it again even if you celebrated it on March 20, the Vernal Equinox.
MAY May 4 – Full moon May 5 – Cinco de Mayo. Margaritas. May 6-9 – Tampa Bay Marine Flea Market. Buy, sell, or trade. This is not a boat show. This is a market for the average person to find great deals on new, used, exotic, or hard to find items. Vendors will be offering great deals on new merchandise, excess inventory, returned items, items not fit for retail stores and discontinued products. Browse the market in search of something special or just spend time with the family. Tampa Bay Downs Thoroughbred horse racing complex parking area. $7, 12 and over. $5, ages 6-11, free six and under. Early bird special: $3 admission Thursday. (813) 914-0208. www.tampabaymarinefleamarket.com.
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West Marine & BoatUS Seminars
Southwinds
Madeira Beach West Marine Express 203 150th Ave, (727) 392-4939 April 22, 7- 8pm – Rigging Seminar, Mike Ritner Bradenton West Marine 4569 14th St. West, (941) 753-3585 April 7, 6 pm – Three Strand Eye Splice, Fred Boynton April 21, 6 pm – Basic GPS. Picking the Right GPS for Your Boat, Gary Denton Bradenton BoatUS 5627 14th St. West, (941) 755-9670 April 1, 6:30 pm – Captain’s License Prep – Scope of Course and Materials Needed Largo West Marine 10289 Ulmerton, (727) 586-7040 April 7, 6-7 pm – Care and Feeding of Your 12-Volt Electrical System, Capt. Geoff Duncan April 24, 11 am-12 pm – Garmin GPS/Chartplotter, Tim Ranney Clearwater BoatUS 11477 US Highway 19 North, (727) 573-2678 April 3, 9 am-1 pm – Coast Guard Aux. Boat Check-up Inspections April 28, 6:30 pm – Small Boat electronics — What’s New and Great, Klaus Gensel St. Petersburg West Marine 5001 34th St. South, (727) 867-5700 April 8, 7 pm – Egmont Slide Show, “Then and Now.” Tampa West Marine 3905 West Cypress, (813) 348-0521 April 20, 7 pm – The Basics of GPS, Malena Woodson Crystal River West Marine 160 SE Highway 19, (352) 563-0003 April 10, 9 am–1 pm – Boat Safety Inspections
www.southwindssailing.com
West Florida Sailing Services Directory
Cedar Key
St. Petersburg
Tampa
From Cedar Key to Cape Sable
Fort Myers Naples
To advertise e-mail editor@southwindssailing.com or call (941) 795-8704. See prices in the ads below. BOAT LETTERING – GRAPHICS
MARINE SURVEYORS
Cape Sable Key West
SAILMAKING, REPAIRING & CLEANING continued
Davis Maritime Serving West Florida Accredited Surveyor St. Petersburg Capt. Al Davis, Master, All Oceans (727) 323-9788 ...... cgcebel@tampabay.rr.com RIGGING SERVICES SSMR. Inc. 727-823-4800 Complete rigging Services On-Site Swaging & splicing Commisssioning Services At Harborage Hi & Dry Dock • Crane Service Fax 727-823-3270St. .............. Petersburg
CANVAS & CUSHION SERVICES Scuba Clean Yacht Service See ad in Underwater Services
Advertise in this 2” tall ad for $34 a Month introductory rates to the new Sailing Services Directory. See page 36 for details or call (941) 795-8704.
CAPTAIN SERVICES CAPT. JIMMY HENDON (727) 459-0801 ASA Cert./BBC Instruction * USCG Lic. Master Deliveries • Gulf • Atlantic • Caribbean (866) 221-2841 .. captainjimmy@gosolo.com
SAILBOAT SERVICES AND REPAIRS ELLIE’S SAILING SHOP Clearwater Livelines, rigging, hardware, repairs Serving small boat sailors Since 1958 Sunfish Boats and Parts...........(727) 442-3281
SAILMAKING, REPAIRING & CLEANING ADVANCED SAILS (727) 896-7245 Quality Cruising Sails & Service Closest Sailmaker to St. Petersburg Marinas Keith Donaldson .................... (727) 896-7245 Scuba Clean Yacht Service See ad in Underwater Services SUNRISE SAILS PLUS WEST FLORIDA Complete Yacht Outfitting Service Sails – New, Repair, Cleaning Complete rigging service, masts, cushions, canvas & more (941) 721-4471 sunrisesailsplus@msn.com
SARASOTA PORPOISE SAILING SERVICES • New and Used Sails • Buy • Sell • Trade • Furling Packages • Discount Sunbrella (941) 758-2822 www.porpoisesailing.com
SAILING INSTRUCTION/SCHOOLS CAPT. JIMMY HENDON (727) 459-0801 ASA Cert./BBC Instruction * USCG Lic. Master Deliveries • Gulf • Atlantic • Caribbean (866) 221-2841 .. captainjimmy@gosolo.com Adventure Cruising & Sailing School A sailing school for Women & Couples • ASA • West Florida and Chesapeake www.acss.bz .......................... (727) 204-8850 YACHTING VACATIONS SW FLORIDA Live-aboard/non-live-aboard ASA instruction www.yachtingvacations.com .. (800) 447-0080 FLAGSHIP SAILING/TAMPA BAY AREA ASA Sailing Instruction – Basic thru Advanced Instructor Certification • Sailing Club Bareboat & Captained Charters www.flagshipsailing.com ...... (727) 942-8958
UNDERWATER SERVICES Scuba Clean Yacht Service • Underwater Services • Canvas Shop • Sail Cleaning & Repair • Detailing • Mechanical • Electrical • Electronics Serving Pinellas, Hillsborough, Sarasota, Pasco & Manatee Counties. (727) 327-2628
COMMUNICATIONS Dockside Radio – Pactor II/III modem sales & support; FCC marine radio license filing; SailMail & WinLink installation & training www.docksideradio.com ......... (941) 661-4498
ADVERTISE FOR $8-10 A MONTH rent a 3 line ad for $8 a month and a four line ad for $10 a month – see page 36 for more details or ........................................... (941) 795-8704 LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Advertise in this 1" tall ad for $20 a month. See page 36 for details or call (941) 795-8704. Southwinds
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Events Calendar continued
May 9 – Mothers Day. Take your mother sailing, but only if she wants too. May 21-23 – Catalina, Hunter and Mainship All Cruisers Rendezvous and Boat Show. Regatta Pointe Marina and Anchorage, Palmetto. Seminars above the restaurant on the pier and cookout below at the Friday night welcome party. All Catalina, Hunter and Mainship owners and prospective purchasers and sailors. Come to the marina by land or anchor off shore (water taxi available for those anchoring). www.masseyyacht.com or (941) 723-1610, or (800) 375-0130. May 29-31 – Memorial Day Weekend.
Racing Calendar
West Florida Sailing
To have your race, regatta, or club race listed contact editor@southwindcssailing.com by the 10th of the month. Races listed should be open to anyone.
FLORIDA WEST COAST & INLAND LAKES The races and regattas listed here are open to those who want to sail. April 1 – April Fools Day canceled. “This is the day upon which we are reminded of what we are on the other three hundred and sixty-four.” - Mark Twain Sunday, April 4 – Daylight Savings begins. You lose an hour of sleep Saturday night. Don’t miss the race in the morning. Bummer. April 2–4 – Suncoast Raceweek; PHRF. Thursday, mandatory skipper’s meeting at SPYC; Friday SPYC to Bradenton Yacht Club, mouth of Manatee River; Saturday, Bradenton to Treasure Island, entry to John’s Pass; Sunday buoy races in Gulf at Treasure Island Tennis and Yacht Club, to lower Tampa Bay; Trophies and banquet 4/9, Davis Island YC. www.wfphrf.org April 3-4 – 51st Annual Mount Dora Sailing Regatta; One Designs and catamarans. Great racing and food in a relaxed setting, like the old days. Mount Dora Yacht Club (352) 7353298. mbpz@comcast.net April 8 – 11 – Rolex Women’s Match Racing. Grade 4 ISAF, by invitation to introduce match racing to new enthusiasts; Includes clinic by Ed Baird; SPYC pseidens@tampabay.rr.com April 10 – Florida Ocean Multihull Association “FOMA FROLIC.” For “offshore” cats and “tris”; Start off Clearwater Pass in the Gulf, north to Anclote Key and return; first start 10:30 www.foma.sailnet.com April 11 – Cortez Yacht Club Easter Egg Fun Race, cortezyachtclub.com, or George Carter (941) 792-9100. 56
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April 15 – Race to the Post Office to pay Uncle Sam. April 18 – Edison Sailing Center monthly Sunfish races. Skippers meeting 12 noon. Just show up. April 20 – Regata del Sol al Sol Regatta; 456 miles, if you go the rhumb line; St. Petersburg to Mexico start of the True Cruising & non-spinnaker classes; Record time to beat: True Cruising: 3days 02:03:51; Non Spinnaker: 3 days 00:49:08 www.regatadelsolalsol.org April 21 – Regata del Sol al Sol Regatta; 456 miles, if you don’t run aground on Cuba. St. Petersburg to Mexico start of Spinnaker and multihull classes. Record times to beat: Spinnaker: 2 days 13:56:20; Multihull 3 days 09:43:15 www.regatadelsolalsol.org April 24 – Sarasota Bay Cup; PHRF racing. Venice Yacht Club and Venice Sailing Squadron. Last race of the SBYA Boat of the Year, Sarasota Bay. www.venice-sailing-squadron.org April 24-25 – Clark Mills Junior Regatta. Optimist Dinghies Clearwater Yacht Club www.cyc.org May 1 – Commodore’s Cup. Tampa Sailing Squadron, PHRF racing. (813) 645-8377 May 1-2 – Sarasota Sailing Squadron Youth Sailfest Regatta. Multi-class and Optimist Dinghies. A full weekend of fun and racing taking place on Saturday May 1, & Sunday May 2. Come along and support the kids in their annual regatta. Racing on both days, with the famous Island Party on Saturday night. All proceeds go to support the Youth Sailing Program. For more information call Liz Jarman (941) 729 5847 or visit www.sarasotaysp.com. May 1-2 – Lightning District Championship. Davis Island Yacht Club. www.diyc.org May 2 – Women’s Championship. Bring your own boat, PHRF Tampa Bay Yacht Racing Association www.diyc.org May 8 – Pram Jam. Optimist Dinghy Racing. Davis Island Yacht Club www.diyc.org May 8 – St. Petersburg Sailing Association. Offshore Race #13, Talbot Race & cookout. www.spsa.us May 8 – Hula Cup. Florida Women’s Sunfish Championship. Sarasota Sailing Squadron www.sarasotasailingsquad.com May 15 -17th – Annual Couples Race. 1400 hours. Father/ daughter, man and wife, wife and boyfriend, husband and ..... you get the idea. St. Petersburg Sailing Association. Start off the Municipal Pier, www.spsa.us May 15-16 - Florida Regional Sunfish Championship. On Charlotte Harbor at the Harbor Inn. Punta Gorda Sailing Club pbgxtgrax@aol.com May 19-25 – Key West Rendezvous. Clearwater Yacht Club/Naples Yacht Club/ Gulf Coast Sailing Club/Punta Gorda Sailing Club/Platinum Point YC. Starts at Clearwater, Naples, and Boca Grande to Key West. Return race to Naples. www.cyc.org LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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Club Racing continued
May 22-23 – Prince of Wales Match Racing. Area eliminations sailed in matching Sonars. Finals are in St. Petersburg in September, ‘ 04. St. Petersburg Yacht Club www.spyc.org May 29-30 – School’s Out Junior Regatta. Optimist Dinghies, Sunfish. Davis Island Yacht Club www.diyc.org May 31 - Race Around Lido. Dinghies. Sarasota Sailing Squadron 10:00 registration. www.sarasotasailingsquad.com
Club Racing
Gary Jobson Attends Leukemia Cup Regatta in Punta Gorda February 28-29 By Mike Savino
West Florida Sailing
From left to right; Gary Jobson, Judith Kolva, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society director, and Dr. Chris Webb, the Leukemia Cup Regatta chairman. Photo by Jeri Webb.
Open to Everyone Wanting to Race Davis Island YC – Thursday evenings. Tampa. Windsurfers, dinghies, cats, PHRF, keelboat One Designs. 6:30 start of first class, sailing around upper Hillsboro Bay. Lots of boats; Daylight savings time of year. Must be US Sailing member. Register before racing, once for summer. An RC duty day may be in your future. www.diyc.org
Rub-A-Dub, the Leukemia Cup Regatta overall winner. Photo by Jeri Webb.
Davis Island YC – Wednesday Evenings Dinghy Series. First warning 6:30 p.m. Laser, Laser Radial, C420, Sunfish, Lightning, Flying Scott, 470, Fireball. Andrew Sumpton at asumpton@earthlink.net or Allison Jolly at abjolly@aol.com Bradenton YC – Thursday evenings. Starts with daylight savings. PHRF racing on Manatee River. For info call Bob Miller, (941) 795-4646 St. Petersburg YC – Friday evenings. 6:30 start off the Municipal Pier. PHRF, Snipes Starts May. Look for the RC boat at the Pier if an Easterly, a half mile downwind from the pier in other breezes. Course around nearby navigation buoys. Sail by the RC boat to register. Anywhere from 10 – 25 boats www.spyc.org Treasure Island Tennis and YC – Friday evenings – 7pm start outside of John’s Pass in Gulf of Mexico. PHRF racing. Starts May. Get together to go under the bridges. www.tityc.org Clearwater YC – Friday evenings. 7:00 Start off Clearwater Pass in Gulf; PHRF racing. Starts May www.cyc.org Venice Sailing Squadron – Saturdays. First Saturday of each month, PHRF racing. Start at mouth of Venice Inlet. www.venice-sailing-squadron.org Sarasota Sailing Squadron – Friday evening. Begins April 9. Start at 6:30. Everyone welcome. www.sarasotasailingsquad.com Edison Sailing Center – Ft. Myers. Sunfish and dinghy racing once a month, year-round john@johnkremski.com Port Charlotte – Third Saturday of month, year-round. pbgvtrax@aol.com 58
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he Leukemia Cup Regatta was held Saturday and Sun day February 28-29 on Charlotte Harbor hosted by the Punta Gorda Sailing Club and the Isles Yacht Club. In addition to the exciting racing in 10-15 mph shifting winds on Saturday, America’s Cup Hall of Famer Gary Jobson, who is under treatment for lymphoma, was well enough to fly in from Chicago for the after-race party at the Isles Yacht Club. Gary mingled with the racers, signed autographs and talked about his racing experiences. Sunday the racing continued with 10-20 mph easterlies for some faster sailing. The awards ceremony was held at the Isles Yacht Club with the Leukemia Cup going to Bill Curtis and his crew, Nick Fortney, in Rub-A-Dub, a Santana 21. Curtis won all three races of the regatta in the Non-Spinnaker B Fleet. Rub-A-Dub was purchased a few years ago for $300 by Curtis and two other partners in a charity auction. They made some repairs and added new sails. Now Curtis goes around beating boats costing 500 times the amount they put into Rub-A-Tub. Sunday night the Leukemia Cup Regatta dinner and auction was held at the Isles Yacht Club. A total of over $62,000 was raised by the sailors, sponsors and auction participants for the benefit of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The money will go to research and aid to the victims of these diseases.
Results (corrected time. Boat, skipper, boat. mfg.) : 1. Rooster Tail Dave Flechsig S2 7.9; 2. Frolic Skip Vielhauer S2 7.9; 3. Bama Slammer Bob Knowles S2 7.9; Non-Spinnaker A Fleet; 1. Journey On Bob Anderson Person 31; 2 .Learning to Fly George Buckingham J-105; 3. Jammin Jerry Haller Tartan 37; Non-Spinnaker B Fleet; 1. Rub-A-Dub Bill Curtis Santana 21; 2. Kamikaze3 Rose Rowland Morgan 24; 3. Adagio Dave Atkinson Catalina 27; True Cruising Fleet; 1. Air Supply Steve Romaine Jeanneau 35; 2. Halcyon Days III Barrie Smith Tartan 34; 3. Paradise Sue Marcoline Hunter 26.5; Small Boat Fleet, Skipper Boat Mfg.; 1. Will White Martin 16; 2. Rick Pantail Martin 16; 3. Charles Peck Martin 16 www.southwindssailing.com
NOOD Regatta
West Florida Sailing
Dave Ellis
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he 2004 National Off shore One-Design Regatta began its circuit around the country for 2004 in St. Petersburg with a record l92 boats in 17 classes. The eight other NOOD events in the United States and Canada draw boats and sailors from their local geographic area. St. Petersburg, however, is a destination resort for more than half of the boats. There were entire classes of boats that had no local representatives, a delight to local hoteliers and merchants. The Henderson 30 class was more competitive than previous years, with three boats tying for the win with ten points. Mike Carroll’s New Wave of Tampa ended up on the shortest end of the tie-breaking, as they had only one first place in the series. Skipper Marty Kullman from St. Petersburg was delighted that competition was so close. The SR-Max class was the smallest type of boat racing. It fielded ten boats with Charlie Clifton and Dave Olson of the Sarasota fleet each with 12 points. Clifton won the tiebreak. Bill Embree of St. Petersburg was third. The largest class was again the Melges 24. While boats attended from many areas of the country and oversees, the winner was again Doug Fisher and crew from Sarasota. Robert Clement of Tampa improved significantly from last year with a 12th in the 34-boat class. Tampa’s Howie Smith placed third in fleet in the first race. Later races, however, were a learning experience in this tough fleet. The J-24 fleet had 27 competing, with local boats being shown the way by visitors.
LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Corsairs racing at the NOOD in St. Petersburg. Gary Hufford photo.
The Sonar class, with 15 boats, had St. Petersburg’s Ed Sherman with a local crew place third. Tampa’s Jose Suarez Hoyos sailed Mariah to win the Level 72 class. While NOOD is a one-design regatta, two classes were set aside for similar boats that rated on handicap around 72 and 105. Some boats would excel in light air and others in strong breezes. This regatta had both conditions. Friday saw no races completed on the south course, run by Tom Farquar, as the breeze shut down after half the classes had started. Farther north, Pat Seiden spinner’s course got in a race that was shortened for some of the classes. Saturday started light, but the breeze came in from the southwest at over 15 knots for the second race. With the current ebbing strongly, waves built up quickly, causing a few rigging and rudder failures among the fleet. The threat of thunderstorms pulled the fleet off the water in early afternoon. Sunday was not a Chamber of Commerce day, but there was wind, giving all fleets excellent racing.
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Clearwater Hosts Laser Masters & Midwinters Dave Ellis
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learwater Yacht Club hosted the Laser Masters Midwinters February 20 and 21 and the Laser Midwinters the following weekend. The Clearwater Community Sailing Center has the room, launching beach and access to racing in the Gulf that the Laser sailors enjoy. The sailors at the Masters must be at least 35 and range up into the 70s. A fine turnout of 65 boats registered, coming from as far away as California and New England, as well as Canada, Germany and the Dominican Republic. The wind was light for both days. Lasers racing at the Midwinters. Gary Hufford photo. This was disappointing for those Saturday was very cold and still windy, with four races. who have, uh, expanded since their early Laser days. The Sunday was one of those shifty beach days, with three more boats are sensitive to the weight of the lone sailor in light air. races. In a strong breeze that same girth would be an advantage, to The winner was from Vancouver, 19-year-old Michael a point. Leigh. A sailor from the Netherlands was second and from Chris Raab of Newport Harbor, CA, again won the reAustralia third. gatta, placing near the top in each of the six races. Clearwater sailors Brad Funk and Zach Railey were fourth Kevin Kelly of Clearwater was second place overall. and fifth, one point apart. Andre Martinie from the Dominican Republic came in third. World champ Paige Railey of Clearwater dominated the The Laser Midwinters that followed is one of only three Radial fleet. This again qualifies her for the ISAF World Youth ISAF Grade-One events in the country. It lived up to its repuRegatta. tation this year with 164 boats from 11 countries. In the 4.7 fleet, Clearwater’s Emily Billing and Courtney After a windless Thursday, Friday’s conditions were very Kuebel had close racing, decided when Courtney missed some windy and rough. Clearwater’s Cassie Featherston, Fairley heavy-air races. Brinkly and Dave Billings arranged for 20 support craft to be on the water and ran three tough races.
A-Cat & F-16 Gulf Coasts Gulfport Yacht Club, FL, March 13-14 By Dave Ellis
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reezes were up to 19 knots and down to five, sometimes in the same race for the ten-boat A-Class Catamaran Gulf Coasts. Nine races of about 45 minutes in length over the March 13-14 weekend left none of the ten skippers begging for more. Boca Ciega Bay threw in significant shifts that shuffled positions upwind and down. Woody Cope of Tampa had a string of bullets during the windiest races on Sunday to take the title by two points over Bob Hodges of Covington, LA. Bob Webbon of Seabrook, TX, was another point back for third. These boats are among the fastest sailing craft upwind. Hulls weigh less than the skipper and the sail looks like a tall cambered butter knife with a black leading edge. That black carbon mast can be tweaked in just about any shape needed 60
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while the very busy skipper, sailing alone, tweaks, sails and hangs on. The top guys also have time to look for the puffs and shifts. The Taipan 4.9 sailed single-handed with asymmetrical chute, as a Formula 16 Una, fielded five skippers, all from Florida. Jennifer Lindsay showed her experience on the boat by acing all of the lighter air races Saturday and then hanging on for the win Sunday. Seth Stern put together wins and two unrecoverable capsizes in the windier races Sunday to take second place. Dave Ellis, sailing his first Cat regatta, played it safe Sunday by not flying the chute, but upwind speed allowed a tie with Hollis Caffee of Gainesville, taking third on the count back. www.southwindssailing.com
Thistle Midwinters By Dave Ellis
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he Thistles have been meeting for their Midwinters at St. Petersburg Yacht Club for 49 years. This year the first week in March saw sailors in 62 boats from throughout the country travel to the warmth of Florida while their home lakes were iced over. Warm weather on Tampa Bay often means light air on the St. Pete side. Only on the final day did the wind pick up to hiking conditions. The other days the Race Committee did yeomen work setting courses and chasing wind for the competitors. Incredibly, Elmer Richards has attended 47 Midwinters. He did himself proud this year with a finish of 22nd of the 62 boats. There is only one racing Thistle in the Tampa Bay area. But the local boat happens to be Thistle #1. Chris Klotz inherited the heirloom and has won the Nationals with it. This year they put it in the water for just three of the races, garnering a fifth in one heat. The old woody still has it. The Thistles have attracted the near-pro sailor. Skip Dieball, a sailmaker, won. The listing of top competitors has familiar names: Gesner, Bryant, Dryden, Barbehenn, Griffin, Finefrock, McDonald, Hansen, King and Abdullah. The sailors who seemed to be having the most fun were those farther back in the fleet. What better way to spend a week in the Florida sun? Thistles racing at the Midwinters. Gary Hufford photo.
LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
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DONATE YOUR BOAT Tampa Sailing Squadron is looking for boat donations for their youth sailing program. Take a tax write-off and donate a boat to YOUTH SAILING, INC. a non-profit organization to help kids learn to sail.
Call Bud at 813-645-5704 www.tampasailingsquadron.org Explanation of Wind Roses
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1980 Catalina 25 w/OB RF tall rig ............. $5000 Sunfish ......................................................... $450 1978 Santana 20 W/Trlr – excellent cond. $2300 2001 Avon 310 rollaway inflatable, like new, orig.cost $2100 ....................... $1300 20’ Drascombe Peterboat W/Trlr, new Ullman sails ...................................... $600 2002 11’ Escape Mambo – like new ............ $900 1980 MacGregor 22 ..................................... $500 MOTORS: Almost new long shaft 6hp Evinrude OB .... $750 Evinrude 6hp OB long Shaft ........................ $450 Mercury 4.5 OB short shaft (fresh water) ... $450
ach wind rose shows the distribution of the prevailing winds in the area and month. These have been recorded over a long period of time. In general the lengths of the arrows indicate how often the winds came from that direction. The longer the arrow the more prevalent were the winds coming from that direction. The length of the shaft is generally to a scale to indicate the percentage of the winds from that direction, but not as printed in the magazine, but the proportions are correct and as a general indicator, the diameter of the circle is a little over 15 percent. The wind blows in the direction the arrows fly. When the arrow is too long to be printed in a practical manner, a number is indicated. In the sample here, that would be the number 32, which means that 32 percent of the time the wind blew from the west. The number of feathers on the arrow indicates the strength of the wind on the Beaufort scale (one feather is Force 1, two is Force 2, etc. See below). The number in the center of the circle shows the percentage of the time that the winds were calm. They all add up to 100 percent. In this example, 32 percent came from the West and 9 percent were calms (a total of 41 per cent), so the remaining arrows add up to 59 percent. These symbols are used here to generally show where the winds came from during that month, how strong and how often. In this example we can see that about a third of the time the winds came from the West, about 20 percent of the time from the NE, Force 3, about 20 percent from the SE, Force 4, maybe 15 percent from the south, Force 2, about never from the NW, and 32 percent from the West, Force 3. It was calm 9 percent of the time. We had some winds from the East at Force 4 and the SW at Force 2.
Beaufort Scale (in knots): Force 1(1-3); Force 2(4-6); Force 3(7-10); Force 4(11-16); Force 5(17-21); Force 6(22-27); Force 7(28-33); Force 8(34-40); Force 9(41-47); Force 10(48-55); Force 11(56-63); Force 12(64-71 Hurricane) Wind Roses are taken from Pilot Charts 62
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www.southwindssailing.com
C L A S S I F I E D
A D S
“In August, you began running an advertisement to sell my diesel engine in your classifieds section. I am pleased to advise you that I have a buyer as a result of the advertisement. Please discontinue it. FYI, I have also had inquiries from West Africa and France as Capt C.T., St. Petersburg, FL a result of the Internet ad you made available. I’m MAJOR impressed!! Thank you very much.”
CLASSIFIED ADS for $5 PER MONTH ALL ADS UNDER 30 WORDS FOR PRIVATELY-OWNED BOATS, SAILBOATS, TRAWLERS AND DINGHIES ONLY PLEASE. THREE MONTH MINIMUM, $15 whether ad canceled or not. Add $5 per month for photos, same minimum policy. Check or credit cards accepted. Mail or e-mail ads by the 10th of the month.
FREE ADS WITHOUT PICS FOR ALL BOAT GEAR (SAILBOAT RELATED) & WINDSURFING ADS. MUST BE PRIVATELY OWNED ITEMS. AD RUNS THREE MONTHS UNLESS RENEWED BY THE 10TH OF THE LAST MONTH AD RUNS.
All photos must be sent electronically or the actual photo — no photocopies. Photos must be horizontal, not vertical; otherwise add $10. All ad text e-mailed must be in upper & lower case, not caps.
The last month your ad runs is in parentheses at the end of the ad. You must call by the 10th of that month to renew for another 3 months. All other ads are $20 a month for up to 20 words and $5 for each additional 10 words. $10 for a horizontal photo. Frequency discounts for longer-running ads. Call (941) 795-8704, e-mail to editor@southwindssailing.com or mail to PO Box 1175 Holmes Beach FL 34218-1175.
All ads go on the Internet, and your Web site or e-mail address in the ad will be linked by clicking on it. Southwinds will only be responsible financially for mistakes for a one issue period. Please check your ad. Let us know any mistakes by the 10th of the month.
BOATS & DINGHIES
DISPLAY CLASSIFIEDS Advertise your business in a display ad inthe classifieds section. Sold by the column inch. 2 inch minimum. (3 column inches is 1/8 page) Monthly Cost Ads Per Inch
9' CAPTIVA ESCAPE with trailer, great fun, easy to sail, good for learning. $950 OBO. Call Nora at 727397-4309. (5/04) 10-foot sailing dinghy, fiberglass, sail rig in good condition. $600. Eve. 850-648-2241. Panama City (5/04) 12-foot sailing dinghy, fiberglass, gaff-rigged main. Self-tacking jib. Sails in new condition. Includes trailer. $900. Eve. 850-648-2241. Panama City (5/04)
12 6 3 1
$17 $20 $23 $27
Minimum Inches
Total Cost
2" 2" 2" 2"
$34 $40 $46 $54
For Sale 17' O’Day Sailor (type II) $2,195 or OBO. Modified for single handed sailing with Roller Furling, Tiller Tender, Electric Trolling motor, and topping lift. Custom cockpit cushions, custom cockpit cover, main sail cover. Depth sounder / fish finder. Two sets of sails. Two head stays. EZ load Trailer. Call Glenn at (813) 949 0341 (4/04)
Hotfoot 20 Sportboat 1985, Similar to Ultimate 20, recent hull paint, PHRF 168 - Lift bulb keel, 1000 lb displacement, Mainsail,155% ,UK Tape Drive blade, spinnaker, Boomkicker, Galvanized trailer, $7400. Atlanta, Call Scott at 678-947-8875 or e-mail stle32@aol.com (5/04)
2,000 lbs. Adult v-berths, opening ports, and quarter berths. $2100 OBO. Stuart FL (772) 878-4721 (5/04) 1973 21' Reynolds Catamaran Great beach cat. good condition. Needs a little TLC. Call for details. Includes continental trailer. $2200 OBO. Must Sell. (239) 765-4433. Ft. Myers Beach (4/04)
22' Ensign Class Sloop. Sailing School fleet. Older boats in sailing condition. With main and Jib. Four available from $1500-$2500. Call (305) 665-4994 (4/04)
Ranger 22, Gary Mull designed PHRF racer/cruiser, everything new or restored, 6 sails, 5hp Nissan O/B, tandem trailer, new Teflon bottom, race ready, $11000 invested, $7000 OBO, (305) 632 9520 (4/04)
2002 Santana 22. California built sloop, heavy fixed fin keel, loaded with extras, plenty of storage lockers. New retail over 35K. Asking $25,000 OBO. (305) 668-8838 (4/04) 1980 Skipper 20’ Shallow-draft sloop and trailer. 3 sails, self-bailing with motor well, displacement
LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Precision23 (1995) for sale - 150% jib (2002), bimini, auto helm (2002), 8HP Yamaha (2002) 4
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C L A S S I F I E D
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Catalina 270 Wing-keel, full electronics, autopilot, spinnker and gear, walk-thru transom, north sails new 2001-2002 (3 jibs, main, spinnaker) Vessel gifted to charitable organization.This organization eager to sell boat for cash. Best offer: asking $26,900. Contact Lou at hooyengl@bellsouth.net or phone 305-3940901(5/04) 27' Hunter, Yanmar diesel runs well, shore power, aircond, bow & stern pulpits, dbl lifelines, $5,900 Miss. coast (228) 806-9316 Gaspergou30@aol.com (4/04)
stroke with electric start & tilt, VHF, instruments with yard trailer. Reduced to $14,900. Extra equipment available separately. Call (941) 351-6207 or e-mail gigbobdob@juno.com for additional info. 1989 Seaward, 24', wing keel, 2003 Suzuki 6HP 4stroke, RF150, 20-amp marine battery charger, Loran, VHF, speed depth, compass, auto helm, new upholstery, small boat in trade. $10,000 (352) 5285310. (4/04) 1982 Merit 25. Great condition. Stored out of water 8 of the last 9 years. Photographs and details at http://www.intelligentstrategies.com/merit. $7,995. 770-932-9382 or dpope@intelligentstrategies.com (5/04) 26 ft. Pearson OD w/ 9.9 hp Johnson. Good sail inventory including spinnaker. Depth, Speed, Loran, vhf, fm/cd and many extras. Bottom was professionally refurbished with West system 2002. Boat has been sailed regularly and is well maintained. $8,200 Bob 251-209-6035 sideshow122@aol.com (4/04)
Accepting offers: 1978 Buccaneer 27’x8’, documented, shoal-draft hull/rig. Interior removed. Zero blistering. No sails. Most voluminous trailerable sailboat built. Delivery possible. (850) 442-6510. Bob Burnham. 392 East Lake Rd., Quincy, FL 32351. (5/04)
winches, $16,500. Eve. 850-648-2241. Panama City. (5/04)
27’ Catalina Sailboat ’84 Diesel Wheel, bimini, enclosure, autopilot, radar, pressure water, propane stove, wind generator, refrig, dinghy, davits, fantastic upgrades, just back from 4 mo. in Bahamas. specs pictures at www.geocities.com/catalina_5477, WPB FL (561) 547-0500, eve (561) 281-2689, $15,800 OBO (4/04) J-27 (1985) Joe Cool Excellent condition. New North 3DL Genoa. Quantum sails in great condition. New bottom. Many extras. Very clean. Well maintained. Located in Coconut Grove. Asking $15,000. Lionel Baugh at (917) 821-3308 /(305) 969-8107 or email at baughlionel@hotmail.com (4/04)
28' Ranger, immaculate, freshwater maintained racer-cruiser with $16,000 in recent improvements, 12 sails, new yanmar. $15,000. Call (813) 685-8737 (5/04)
30’ Hunter designed by Cherubini. S/V Uluru is being offered for sale. Complete refit from stem to stern. Turn key cruiser. Our loss your gain. Bought 42’ cruiser. For a detailed inventory, e-mail zekeatthebeach@aol.com or call (239) 280-7434 (5/04)
Baba 30, 1978, bluewater cruiser, strong high-quality cutter, great singlehander, well-equipped and maintained, 27hp Yanmar, New sails, Shaeffer roller furling, Autohelm 4000, $53,000. Located Ft. Myers. E-mail lyttraveler@yahoo.com, (239) 560-6078. (4/04)
1982 Catalina 27', Clean, Comfortable Cruiser, 10 HP diesel, Fin Keel, Wheel Steering, Traditional layout, All the amenities one would expect from Catalina Yachts. The Seaway Yacht Broker- www.Seaway2.com (228) 493-5261, (228) 467-6802, Asking $11,500, will consider offers. (4/04) Argonauta 27 folding tri, fast Newick design, high tech fg, aft cabin, center cockpit, wheel, bimini, roller furling, trailer, only 3 built!!! 45k firm or consider coastal land trade, (361) 442 9351 or lvltlbts@yahoo.com in Texas.
DISPLAY CLASSIFIEDS starting at $34/month. editor@southwindssailing.com 64
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2000 Hunter 290. Selden inmast and jib furling,18hp Yanmar, Garmin 182GPS, Raymarine Auto-pilot, knot and depth.12cd Stereo, VHF, LPG stove. Bimini & dodger. $59,000. In Jacksonville, FL, (904) 683-7476. willgray@comcast.net (5/04) 1978 Catalina 30, Yanmar 3GM 30 100hours, 12000 BTU AC/Heat, tiller steering w/autopilot, speed, depth, compass, stereo, pressure water, 2-speed
www.southwindssailing.com
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1981 Freedom 33' cat-ketch. Among World’s Best Sailboats. Unique, strong, fast, roomy. Single hand easily. Carbon-fiber spars, centerboard, Windlass, bimini. Delivery possible. Reduced. $35,000. (713) 847-9897 (5/04)
J-30 Hull 279 1981 Ready to race, cruise. sleeps 6. Mylar Genoa, jib, main, spinnaker, New cored cabin roof, new faired bottom, new compasses, Yanmar diesel. reduced to $19,900. (954) 684-2869, (954) 401-8892 (4/04) CAL 31 1980 Freshwater since new. Lite use. Many upgrades in 2002. Located near Atlanta, GA. $27,500 Call (770) 540-9796 (4/04)
33' Morgan Out-islander, 1977. Bimini & dodger, hot water shower, 108 Perkins engine, autopilot, ac/reverse cycle, generator, inverter, 5.2 freezer/refrigerator, watermaker, GPS, power windlass, 2 anchors (50ft chain each) 210', 350' line, davits, hard bottom dinghy, outboard, recent rigging and MackPack for main and 135 roller furling jib. Sleeps 5. Reduced to $35,500 obo. Call (305) 893-0436. Email big0807ben@aol.com. (4/04) Hunter 33 1980,4' draft,sleeps 6,roller furling, diesel, electronic, A/C. New refrigeration, Autohelm, 100 amp alternator, charger, fresh paint.Coast Guard inspected.Pristine! $25,000. (941)235-1890 (4/04)
36’ Bruce Roberts Steel Hull Welded to road- ready trailer. An economical beginning for a serious bluewater cruiser. This hull is fair and professionally welded. $5000. (904) 476-3353. (4/04)
31’ VanDerStadt 1969 Harmony, full keel, 5ft. draft., new Harken roller furling, 4 Lewmar self-tailing, Auto Helm 4000+, solar, wind generator, 27hp. Yanmar, $20,000. St. Petersburg, FL, (727) 4344586. casadelgato1@hotmail.com.
Catalina 34 1986, Tall Rig, Good condition, Custom Bimini, Dodger. All standard features sleeps 7, new cushions, Chartplotter, many upgrades, Slip in St. Pete municipal can transfer $43,900 (813) 8311011, mvazmina@tampabay.rr.com (6/04) 32' Pearson Vanguard Classic in great shape and very well equipped: Yanmar, Harken Furling, New sails, equipped to cruise see www.dneve.com/sultana or call (305) 772-7218, $24,000 (4/04)
1977 36' Allied Princess Ketch. Super clean, just completed 600mi cruise. Autopilot, 4-108, sails refurb./bottom 2003, great interior, HCPW, 80 water, 40 diesel, 15 holding, 2001 barrier. http:// home.earthlink.net/~a36ketch. (251) 968-8874 (4/04)
32' Catalina 320 1999 WK, Yanmar 30 (240 hrs) ac, ap, km, df, Bimini, Adler Ref, Bottom Aug 02, VHF W/DCS-GPS, Reduced $92,000, lying Shalimar FL (850) 499-0264 (5/04) Irwin 33 Center Cockpit Sloop, 1986. Sale or Trade. Diesel 3’ 10” draft. $40,000 value. Trade for property or motorhome. Boat is clean and ready for the Bahamas. (239) 691-6580. Located Ft. Meyers, FL. E-mail: www.suzy213@juno.com (5/04)
View Classified Ads & Boat Pics on our secure Web site www.southwindssailing.com LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
1986 Schock 34 GP. Consistent winner GYA Challenge Cup-Sugar Bowl- Gulfport/Pensacola. Yanmar diesel, chart plotter, recent sails. Berthed NOLA. $39,000 Jack (228) 452-1240. hagarjac@bellsouth.net (5/04) Jason 35 bluewater cruiser,fiberglass Brewer designed double-ended cutter. Radar, chartplotter, SSB/ham, autopilot, 100 gal water, 60 gal fuel asking $52,900, see at escheel.com/boat. (941) 7733715
1984 Morgan 36 K/CB. Diesel, auto pilot, AC, Furling genoa, wheel, GPS plotter, sleeps 6. Berthed PC, MS. Jack (228) 452-1240. hagarjac@bellsouth.net (5/04)
See Classified information on page 63 Southwinds
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C L A S S I F I E D
Lagoon 37 1994. totally equipped for comfortable, safe liveaboard/cruising excellent condition. Original owner. $185,000 (239) 543-7208 or (239) 8989522 (8/04)
37' 1989 Hunter 37 Legend Is fast and comfortable and gives you the perfect weekender or cruiser. Equipment includes: depth, autopilot, 2 VHFs, battery charger/inverter, dodger, bimini, and more. $69,000 (727) 363-1124. (4/04)
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1975 Seafarer Ketch, 38' “Rhodes Design” - ready to sail or live aboard. R/furling & cutter, new interior , 50hp Perkins, Radar, GPS, Auto-Pilot, refrig, Bimini, davits, p/water, A/C, fantastic upgrades, 4’ draft, $41,900 JAX FL (904)838-5767 drterrytaylor@comcast.net (5/04)
2002 Catalina 40, fully loaded plus unique custom cruising upgrades. Must sell, asking $213,000. Palm Beach, FL. Trades considered for SW Florida land/home. More pix and specs available cturner1@swfla.rr.com or (239) 470-5567.
Beneteau 38 1990 model new genoa, Icom SSB, compass, inverter & more. Laying Tortola, BVI. $62,000. sloopm38@hotmail.com or (305) 3104653 (4/04)
41' Gulfstar Ketch 1973 cruising equipped, ready to go. 2002 - 10 barrier coats and Strataglass enclosed bimini, lived aboard 14 years, selling medical reasons, photos, details: $55,000 www.shevard.com (904) 284-9986 X2040 (6/04)
2000 Catalina 380 Tall rig Almost new,118 engine hours. Raytheon “Pathfinder” integrated GPS/Radar, ST60 wind, speed, depth. Arctic forced air heat. Heart interface inverter/charger. Zodiac 6 person canister coastal life raft. Many more custom extras. Ready for your cruising dreams! Call for detailed list. Seattle (206) 780-3475. $162,000. (3/04) Ericson 39 1978 rebuilt 2002, surveyed. All new 38 hp diesel, electrics, plumbing, windlass, autopilot, canvas. Plus dinghy, o/board, etc $49,500. Private sale. Andrew (954) 524-4765, e-mail brandtwo@bellsouth.net (4/04)
Condor 40 Many recent upgrades including new Calvert main,2000 Genoa, new Bimini, 1999 twin Yamaha 9.9’s, new halyards, new Raymarine speed & depth, Yanmar genset $72,000. E-mail camsimmons@pdq.net, call (281) 218-0026. (4/04)
Morgan 416 OI, 1982, Perkins 62hp diesel, center cockpit, 4’2" draft, great shape, 6kw generator, plus many extras, 2 heads, 2 staterooms, ketch rigged, $88,000, call (727) 379-0554 or email: jackhodges_nc@yahoo.com (4/04)
1990 41' Morgan Classic MKII. New sails, A/C, 12V Refrig. Excellent Condition. Asking $120,000. Located Miami (305) 668-8838 or (305) 790-9251 (4/04) 1989 Catalina 42, 10 yr fresh-water boat. New electronics, invertor, Autopilot and dodger Bimini. Excellent shape with serious upgrades. Located Florida west coast. $109,000. www.tapaki.com. e-mail tapaki3@yahoo.com (4/04)
1984 37' Dickerson Cutter. Beautiful boat featured in World’s Best Sailboats. Furling main and jib, staysail on boom. New ST6000 AP, new water heater, lectrasan head. 4’6" draft. Perkins 4108 diesel, new sailor prop. $77,000 e-mail dosukoenig@aol.com Cortez Fl. (941) 755-9316 (4/04)
1983 Southern Star 43’. Excellent condition. $75,000. S.J. Brown or Collene Johns. (850) 4533471. 44' Bruce Roberts custom pilot house. Steel/stainless steel, Volvo 6cyl., 120hp diesel, high rig, electric windlass, GPS, Autopilot, Depth, SSB, Hard dodger, fast, comfortable, safe, and spacious. (985) 285-0874. (4/04)
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C L A S S I F I E D Knoware It Is - a stowage/retrieval computer program for your boat or RV. You import a layout of your boat or RV, mark storage locations, then add items to each location. Order at http:// www.knoware-online.com for $49 plus $5 S/H or download a free Demo version at http:// www.knoware-online.com/kwii_demo.html.
A D S MARINE ENGINES
CREW AVAILABLE 1988 Brewer 44’ shoal-draft w/board. Centercockpit cutter, Perkins 85, sale by original owners, (941) 962-7100 or (813) 671-0862 or paritytwo@yahoo.com.
APARTMENT FOR RENT Apartment for rent in Durango, Colorado. Nice 2 bedroom, 2 bath unfurnished townhouse in the woods in town. Fireplace, deck, garage, dishwasher, refrigerator, great room. $1050 a month. Lease. Nice neighborhood. Quiet. Clean. Available June 1. (877) 372-7245 toll free. smorrell1@tampabay.rr.com
BOOKS & CHARTS Ocean Routing – Jenifer Clark’s Gulf Stream Boat Routing/Ocean Charts by the “best in the business.” (301) 952-0930, fax (301) 574-0289 or www.erols.com/gulfstrm
BUSINESS/INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES Construction/Real Estate investment Highly-experienced, honest, licensed, responsible and reliable contractor seeks investor/partner in new construction/remodeling in West Florida. Perhaps a spec house or purchase to remodel. Contractor is experienced in custom homes of all sizes, including very high end homes. Only interested in doing interesting and enjoyable projects. (941) 795-8711 Sailtime.com is looking for base operators on the Florida coast. This may suit existing marine business owners who wish to add an additional income stream. Sailtime is a unique business model that requires minimal capital and no staff. Tel. (813) 8170104 or jtwomey@sailtime.com
COMPUTER & SOFTWARE FOR BOATS
See Classified information on page 63 LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Visit Southwinds new boat and crewlisting service at southwindssailing.com
CREW WANTED Visit Southwinds new boat and crewlisting service at southwindssailing.com
ELECTRONICS SeaTech Systems – Computerized navigation & communication. Call for free Cruiser’s Guide to the Digital Nav Station and CAPN demo disk. (800) 444-2581 or (281) 334-1174, navcom@sea-tech.com, www.sea-tech.com
MISCELLANEOUS BOAT GEAR NEW & USED
Best Prices – Solar panels, wind generators, charge controllers, deep cycle batteries, solar panel and wind generator mounting hardware. Authorized dealer for Siemens, Kyocera, Solarex, and Uni-Solar solar panels, Air Marine wind generator, Deka, Trojan, and Surrette deep cycle batteries.™ Toll free (877) 432-2221 www.e-marine-inc.com
HELP WANTED Regional editors wanted. Southwinds is looking for individuals to work spare time and submit monthly information on racing, cruising, sailing, calendar and related events in several regions: Southeast Coast states (Carolinas and Georgia), East Florida (East and Northeast Florida), Southeast Florida, Florida Keys, Upper Gulf Coast states area (Florida’s Big Bend, the Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, East Texas coast). West Florida editor is already taken. Must have some knowledge of racing besides other sailing/cruising knowledge, be into writing, good with computers and the Internet, and good at communicating with the Southwinds editor. Not much initial payment but good potential and lots of possibilities. Up to 5 people needed (one per region or one person could do more than one region, but must be familiar with each region). (941) 7958704. editor@southwindssailing.com
PHOTOGRAPHERS: Southwinds 2005 CALENDAR PHOTO CONTEST. See advertisement in the magazine in the ad directory under calendar contest.
Remanufactured engines, cheap: 12V71 Detroit Marine. 16149 Detroit Marine. 3208 Cat Marine Engine. S.J. Brown or Billy Brooks. (850) 453-3471. 9.9 Honda OB, electric start, new controls, still in box, installed 2003, less than 100hrs. $1750. (772) 349-0796. (6/04) Famet roller reefing. Seeking best offer. lvltlbts@yahoo.com (361) 442-9351 Honda 8 HP 4-stroke extra long shaft. 1990. Pull Start. Set up for either tiller or cable operation. Includes gas tank/hose. Runs perfect. $925 or trade for similar 2-stroke. St. Petersburg, FL (727) 744-2200.
DINGHY DAVITS Only $360.00
www.martekdavits.com
727-686-5020 Southwinds
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C L A S S I F I E D
A D S LODGING FOR SAILORS
Ponce de Leon Hotel Historic downtown hotel at the bay, across from St. Petersburg YC. 95 Central Ave. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 550-9300 FAX (727) 826-1774 www.poncedeleonhotel.com
SAILING INSTRUCTION Boom from Tartan 40, E=14’. $400 (813) 9323720 (5/04) 3 burner oven, CNG. Can be converted to propane. $400 (813) 932-3720 (5/04)
Dahon Stainless Steel 3-sp Folding Bikes Great condition $450 pair, Pur-35 manual watermaker never used new $550, Used Magma propane grill $60, e-mail Jim @lagartaboat@yahoo.com (4/04)
PROPELLER 3 blade bronze 19D, 18P, taper, unused since rebalanced $150 +UPS, call (850) 8727811(5/04) New-unused hookah dive system Surface-supplied dive rig with 120-volt compressor, 50-foot hose and regulator. Operate off small inverter or generator. Paid $900, will sell for $500. (305) 849-1127 (4/ 04) Harken gennaker furler #1900 Light use - $325 plus shipping. Navionics Chesapeake plotter chip $100 Punta Gorda FL (941) 505-5053; Teak boards, anchors - Fortress FX23, Danforths, Deltas, Bruce, DQR, Aqua Finn Sailboat, Mirage sailboard, Dyer Sailing Dinghy, Navico PT 100 (new) Tiller Pilot, Autohelm 4000 wheel Pilot, Walker Bay Dinghy. Nautical Trader (941) 488-0766. www.nauticaltrader.net/ (4/04) Cutlass (flatfish) shaft bearing 2x6 OD unused $30 call (850) 872-7811 (5/04) Wheels Custom Leathered – Satisfaction guaranteed, 1 year warranty. Free turks head. Over 100 satisfied customers last year. Contact Ray Glover at Sunrise Sails Plus (941) 721-4471 or sunrisesailsplus@msn.com
TIRALO floating deck chair - a beach chair that floats in water and rolls easily on the sand. Looks great. Folds and fits on your boat or inside your car. More info: www.tiralo-usa.com or swti@oasisllc.com Excellent 34’7" Aluminum Mast 3’6" spreaders, 12' 8" boom, 11’10" whisker pole. Mainsail, 3-reefs, 3 winches, 15 mast steps, rigging, insulated backstay, can deliver. Make offer. Call (863) 6754244. (4/04)
SAILS & CANVAS
Dripless Packing Proven high-tech propeller and rudder packing that outlasts all other packings and is virtually dripless. Easy to install. Bilges stay dry. Won’t damage shafts. Economical. Dealer inquiries welcome. Toll Free (877) 432-2221 or www.e-marine-inc.com Feathering Propeller, Adjustable pitch, two blades 16"x4", shaft 1 1/8" x 35" + prop. $350 OBO, (772) 878-4721 (4/04) Honda 9.9 HP 4 stroke outboard, 2000, 8" shaft, elect. start , 6 amp alt. output for battery charging. Exc. cond./ low hrs. Only $1550. ($2939 new) (941) 505-9772 (4/04) GPS New Garmin Street Pilot III (deluxe). Portable GPS w/ auto routing and voice. Includes CDRom, mounts, data card, etc. Great for boat and/ or car! $600 obo. (386) 426-5978 (4/04)
OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE Office and warehouse space available for lease to marine-related businesses. Great for boat brokers or sales representatives. High speed Internet access. JSI (727) 577-3220
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C L A S S I F I E D NEW & USED SAILS BUY • SELL • TRADE Wholesale plus Outfitting Pkgs
Furling Packages
SERVICES FOR SAILORS
Discount Sunbrella
7060 15th St. E., #14 • Sarasota, FL 34243 Phone: 941-758-2822 • Fax: 758-2979 www.porpoisesailing.com
WINDSURFING GEAR Wanted: Used Prodigy (standard or race),other boards, miscellaneous windsurfing equipment. Steve (941) 795-8704, editor@southwindssailing.com Starboard 2002 X186 Formula Windsurfer, Neil Pryde (NP) 9.8 2002 Race Slalom sail NP 530 2003 Carbon Mast & Foot, NP 260 2003 Carbon Boom, Harness Lines & adj. outhaul NP Padded Triple Board Bag (fits all!), TOTAL $1400, t.fiedler@umiami.edu ( 5/04) USED SAILS SAVE $$$ 1000s of headsails, mains & spinnakers. We ship everywhere, satisfaction guaranteed. We also buy sails. Sail Exchange. (800) 6288152. 407 Fullerton Ave. Newport Beach CA 92663 www.sailexchange.com See Display ad in Index of advertisers
Tiga 268 SLR, Excellent condition, 2 fins, Carbon Mast, Windsurfing Hawaii Boom & Harness Lines, 3 Mylar Monofilm Sails (4.5, 5.5, 6.5), Padded board bag.Total $400, t.fiedler@umiami.edu ( 5/04)
SOUTHERN SAILING (continued from page 39) African-American youngster. After the second day of sailing he was sitting on the “deck” of the Opti, holding the tiller extension correctly and rocking fore and aft in tune with the waves to lift the bow. “Where did you learn to do that,” I asked. “I don’t know, it just seemed natural,” was his innocent reply. We would be reading about that youngster winning major sailing events by now. Except that he hasn’t sailed since. He was the pitcher in baseball, the quarterback in football, the team leader in soccer. If Ed Baird were not a top sailor he may very well be on the pro golf circuit by now. Andy Fox came back from running marathons after not sailing for years, won the Laser Midwinters and dropped out of sailing again. Face it, there is a natural ability that helps some that is not present in the rest of us. We sail with what we’ve got. LOCAL NEWS FOR SOUTHERN SAILORS
Practice: We all know this. But who has the time. After a week of Rick White’s Laser Clinic in the late 1980s I beat the other students and all of the instructors in the regatta at the end of the week. But six weeks later, after going back to work while they continued to practice sailing, I was mid-fleet. Oh, and perfect practice makes perfect. Carol Cronin and crew won the US Olympic Trials after practicing for the last two months only when there was a coach and only with top sails on a top boat. Fun: Few top sailors can continue to be at the top if they lose the joy of sailing. Those at the very top have to really work at not agonizing over every race. Paul Elvstrom had a high-profile breakdown after two decades of winning and being always expected to win. And fun is one of the things that we average sailors can be REALLY good at.
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Air Duck 33 Aqua Graphics 65 Atlantic Sails 35 Banks Sails 68 Beachmaster Photography 66 Beneteau Sailboats BC Beta Marine 16 Bluewater Insurance 14 Bluewater Sailing Supply 13 Boaters Exchange 6,63 BoatUS 7 Bob and Annie’s Boatyard 20 Bo’sun Supplies 37 Bubba Book 18 Carson/Beneteau BC Coast Weather 69 Compac Boats East 16 Corinthian Regatta, Bradenton YC 57 Crow’s Nest Restaurant & Marina 56 Cruising Direct Sails 45 Davis Maritime Surveying 51 Defender Industries 68 Dockside Radio 17 Don’s Salvage 52 Dwyer mast 68 Eastern/Beneteau BC First Patriot Insurance 21 Fleetside Marine Service 67 Flying Scot Sailboats 64 Fujinon Binoculars 27 Fun Maritime Academy 17 Garhauer Hardware 34 Glacier Bay Refrigeration 44 Great Outdoors Publishing 52 Gulf Coast Yacht Sales 64 Gunkholer’s Cruising Guide 52 Hood/SSMR 61 Hotwire/Fans and other products 67 Hunter Sailboats 10,11 Island Marine Products 32 Island Time PC 67 JR Overseas/Moisture Meter 33 JS900 PHRF Racer 64 JSI Marine Flea Mkt. 68 Martek Dinghy Davits 67 Massey Yacht Sales 3,9,19,39,43,47, IFC Master and Commander DVD 17 Masthead Enterprises 34,69 Murray Yacht Sales/Beneteau BC National Sail Supply 42 Nautical Trader 52 NBOA 53 North Sails 6 Nuclear Sails 13 Pasadena Marina 51 Porpoise Used Sails 69 Raider Sailboats 66 RB Grove/Universal and Westerbeke 27 Regatta Time in Abaco 38 Rparts Refrigeration 30 Sail Exchange/Used Sails 40 Sailcovers and More 68 Sailfest, Sarasota Youth Sailing Program 56 Sailor’s Soap 23,36,46 Sailtime 65 Sarasota Youth Sailing Program 62 Schurr Sails 15 Scurvy Dog Marine 37 Sea School 16 Sea Tech 44 Shadetree 27 Snug Harbor Boats 15 SSMR/Hood 61 St. Augustine Sailing School 68 St. Barts/Beneteau BC Suncoast Inflatables 59 Tackle Shack 54 Tampa Sailing Squadron 62 TowboatUS 13 UK Sails 41 Ullman sails 57 Weathermark sailing 12 West Marine 29, IFC Windcraft Catamarans 27 Alphabetical list of advertisers Sailing Services Directory West Florida Regional Sailing Services Directory Where to Get Southwinds
Southwinds
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VIEW FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BOAT
Everybody Needs a “Break”
Now & Then By Mary Reid
T
his is so cool! The boat has been back in the water less than two weeks. A hint of antifreeze still lingers in the water system, and we’re already going on a boat vacation. My mind is whirling with plans. I’ll sleep late! We’ll rent a car and explore! On the days I’m not sipping cold ones by the pool, we’ll pack that picnic hamper occupying precious space under the master berth and go to the beach! I blink my starry eyes and the cap’n’s disgruntled face comes into focus. “I’m sorry, honey,” I offer, as I try to wipe the grin off my face. (His response is not fit to print.) You see, the cause of this little respite from daily boat life as we know it is a faulty transmission. One that will probably have to be shipped. (Yes! I wonder how many dime novels I can devour before it gets back.) We’ll be spending our day languishing at the Dowry Creek Marina on the ICW, which boasts a swimming pool, a beautiful clubhouse with satellite TV, a courtesy van and, best of all, a verandah lined with rocking chairs to rock away the evening in. It does nothing to improve the cap’n’s state of mind when I try to convince him that landlubbers pay good money to come and stay put at a place like this. “Staying put” goes against a true sailor’s psyche. Unfortunately, the captain doesn’t share my Pollyanna view of boat vacations. However, I think he would agree that some of our best times and best friends have been born from assorted boat maladies. Wind, weather, equipment failure… Like the time Agur’s Wish and a bunch of other boats holed up at a little marina to wait out a storm. In four days of shared misery, we and the crews of Gone Away (Ken and Jane), Chakana (Mike, alias Captain Crash, and Monica), Who Cares (Steve and Kelly), Phase One (Dick and Gloria) and Bob, on the boat with no name, became fast friends. We checked and rechecked dock lines. We shared information and electrical cords. We ate, we drank, and we commiserated. These things just don’t happen in one night in a calm anchorage. One funny incident happened when Chakana came racing into the dock showing no signs of slowing down. We all jumped up and started waving hands and yelling very insightful advice. Like… “Slow down!” And…
“You’re going too fast!” As if Mike couldn’t figure this out on his own. The concrete boat ramp he was rapidly approaching could have helped slow him down, but he chose instead to take out about five feet of much more boat-friendly wooden docks. It seems his transmission was stuck in forward. Those damn transmissions. It seems like it’s all or nothing with them. Anyway that’s not the funny part; it happened the next morning. Several of us were gathered in the laundry room when Miss Lucy (this name has been changed to protect the not-soinnocent), the proprietor of the marina, came looking for a reckoning. She cornered Steve, thinking she had found the culprit who smashed up her docks the night before. “What boat are you from?” she demanded. “Who Cares,” Steve replied (See boat list above). “I care, by gosh! Somebody’s gotta pay for those docks.” We all laughed, but I don’t think she got the joke. Just as in land life we swore to stay in touch, and we did for awhile and then we lost contact with most of these couples, but we still keep in close touch with Gone Away and make a point of meeting up with them every year. And we know someday we’ll unexpectedly run into the others at a dock, or in some secluded anchorage, or while waiting out a storm somewhere. We met Gord and Suzanne (Camelot II) while waiting out another storm in Fishing Bay on the Chesapeake. We followed them on to Norfolk, but then they went their way, and we went ours. But through the heaven-sent power of e-mail, we were able to meet up with them the next year in New York City. I remember Gord saying, almost regretfully, “I made so many good friends last year, and we’ve made plans to meet up again this year. I’m just afraid we won’t make the effort or the time to meet new ones this year!” But you do. There’s always room for more. So in between my daydreams of beaches and pina coladas are hopes that during our enforced vacation we find a few more good friends and maybe another place we’ll have to stop in and say howdy at next year. But wait a minute. What’s the cap’n pulling out of the cockpit lockers? Paintbrushes and cans of varnish! *#*%! It looks like it’s going to be a working vacation.
Have an interesting story to tell? We would like to print it here. If you have a photo with it, all the better. E-mail to editor@southwindssailing.com 70
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See the Boats Share the knowledge Stay for the Fun! May 21 - 23 • Regatta Pointe Marina Palmetto, Florida • Admission is Free! All boat owners and boating enthusiasts are invited
• Fun-filled parties, cookouts, refreshments and live entertainment
• Free anchorage, transient slips available at additional cost
• 8 Free seminars
• Up to 60 new and pre-owned sail and powerboats on display from 30-45 ft.
• Tropica Marine electronics display
• Free launch service provided by Duffy Electric Boats
• Special purchase incentives for new Catalina, Hunter or Mainship yachts
• Free demo cruises – Catalina, Hunter and Mainship (reservations required) • Gifts and drawings for big prizes
• Free "How to Prepare your Boat for Sale" package • $500 West Marine door prize
Don’t miss out! Chart a course to Regatta Pointe to share the fun and camaraderie of other owners and cruising yachtsmen. Catalina, Hunter and Mainship owners who pre-register receive a quality canvas bag filled with valuable gifts and prizes! Call your nearest Massey Yacht Sales & Service dealership for details. TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU ON FLORIDA’S WEST COAST – IN THE HEART OF AMERICA’S FINEST CRUISING AREA.
Palmetto, FL 941-723-1610 • TOLL-FREE 800-375-0130
St. Pete, FL 727-824-7262 • TOLL-FREE 877-552-0525
www.masseyyacht.com • E-mail:
Sponsored by:
The Cruisers Lifestyle
Gloria Rector Vessel Documentation, Inc.
yachtsales@masseyyacht.com