NOVEMBER 21, 2023 NO RACE, BUT A BLISSFUL SAIL

 

November 21, 2023                                                                

NO RACE, BUT A BLISSFUL SAIL

PredictWind was calling for light and variable wind, but Predict wind is almost always wrong!?  For this evening, it seems that PredictWind was spot on. As we motored out of the harbor several people on the dock asked if we were actually going out when there was no wind?  As we left the harbor, we scanned the bay for patches of wind and it looked like a country pond at sunrise with no hint of wind.   

We motored over to GOV to see if anything would develop and as we sat motionless we counted nine boats coming out of the harbor.  From 2pm until 3pm, the boats patiently bobbed optimistically watching for a breeze to develop.  Enough is enough and I finally cancelled the race at 3pm.  Even with the lack of wind, it was a very pleasant afternoon on the water. The last several weeks, we have had a raucous sea state with large waves and a short period.  This can create very uncomfortable sailing and boating in general.  On this “Blissful” evening, the wave action was nonexistent with very calm water.  It was such a beautiful time on the water that many boats just stayed out even after the race was cancelled. 

We motored out to the point to confirm something out there and mysteriously we had 6-7 knots of wind. We had quite a pleasant sail as the very light breeze filled the bay.  We noticed many of the other boats that had stayed out were sailing also.  The Pacific Spirit crew even sailed all the way to Natural Bridges.

With the wind not appearing until after 3:30, we had no race but with very light whispering wind and the flat seas it was a blissful evening sail.

As a bonus, we witnessed porpoises swimming as we approached the harbor.  We also sailed by an otter that had her baby otter nestled on her chest.  I don’t know if it was the famous (841) female otter that had been aggressive with surfers and recently had a baby otter, but it was certainly a treat to see them right next to the boat.

Lets pray for wind for next Tuesday for a 3pm start.

NEXT TUESDAY IS THE LAST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH AND IS BARBECUE NIGHT AT THE CLUB AFTER THE RACE.  BRING YOUR BEST  BARBECUE FOOD.

Happy holiday wishes to all of you.  Enjoy your Thanksgiving and time with family.

Barry Keeler

Sailing Pair A Dice