Products with advancements in sophistication, usefulness, and the ability to expand the envelope of situational awareness and connectivity.
By Capt. Mike Martel
47
Great Expectations
If you’re going cruising to find happiness, don’t go.
By John Herlig
49
Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show Official Program
Find the show map, exhibitor list, exciting seminars, and other details for the show at Annapolis City Dock April 25-27.
67
Offshore Series Part 2: Tips from First-Time Offshore Sailors
A couple living the offshore dream shares tips on preparing your boat and self for the journey. By Captain Cheryl Duvall, in collaboration with Captains Suzanne and Joe Rexing presented by Us spars
84
Spring Racing Delight
Weeknight Racing Kick-Off, Charleston Race Week, Memorial Day Events, EWE Spriit Cup, Southern Bay Race Week, and more spring action. presented by MoUnt Gay rUM
96
Racer’s Edge Lessons From the Pros: Practicing
What do you do when you go out with your team for that first practice weekend?
By David Flynn of Quantum Sails
Will Keyworth took this month’s cover shot of Kevin Sherwood’s J/99 Bay Retriever at the Annapolis to Miles River Race start. This year’s edition unfolds May 24.
# Photo by John Herlig
# Photo by Lisa Mason
# Photo by Will Keyworth
32
35 Where We Sail: Out on the River, a Brighter Future and Dinner Await! By Tom Guay presented by herrinGton harboUr Marinas
37 Stories of the Century presented by bacon sails and Marine sUpply
39 See the Bay: St. Michaels and the Wye River presented by osprey Marine restorations
42 From Sunfish to 33-Foot Sloop By Craig Ligibel 98 Brokerage Section: Used Boats for Sale
Eastport Yacht Club
June 14th | 4-8pm Open to the Public Advance General Admission Tickets $15, or $20 at the gate
612 Third Street, Suite 3C, Annapolis, MD 21403 (410) 216-9309 spinsheet.com
PUBLISHER
Mary Iliff Ewenson, mary@spinsheet.com
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Chris Charbonneau, chris@spinsheet.com
EDITOR
Molly Winans, molly@spinsheet.com
SENIOR EDITORS
Beth Crabtree, beth@spinsheet.com
Kaylie Jasinski, kaylie@spinsheet.com
COPY EDITOR
Lucy Iliff, lucy@spinsheet.com
FOUNDING EDITOR
Dave Gendell
ADVERTISING SALES
Eric Richardson, eric@spinsheet.com
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
Brooke King, brooke@spinsheet.com
DISTRIBUTION / BROKERAGE / CLASSIFIEDS MANAGER
Beatrice M. Mackenzie, beatrice@spinsheet.com
ART DIRECTOR / PRODUCTION MANAGER
Zach Ditmars, zach@spinsheet.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER / PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
Royal Snyder, royal@spinsheet.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kim Couranz, Chelsea Co, Captain Cheryl Duvall, Tom Guay
John Herlig, Eva Hill, Pamela Tenner Kellett, Craig Ligibel, Gwen Mayes, Lin McCarthy, Steven Toole, Cindy Wallach, Ed Weglein (Historian )
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Walter Cooper, Ben Cushwa, Mark Hergan, Will Keyworth, Ted Morgan, Al Schreitmueller, Cindy Wallach
DISTRIBUTION
Martin and Betty Casey, Gregory and Dorothy Greenwell, Dave Harlock, Ron and Colleen Ogden
SpinSheet is a monthly magazine for and about Chesapeake Bay sailors. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited without prior consent of the officers of SpinSheet Publishing Company. SpinSheet Publishing Company accepts no responsibility for discrepancies in advertisements.
SpinSheet is available by first class subscription for $45 per year, and back issues are available for $4 each. Mail payment to SpinSheet Subscriptions, 612 Third Street, Suite 3C Annapolis, MD, 21403.
SpinSheet is distributed free of charge at more than 800 establishments along the shores Chesapeake Bay. Businesses or organizations wishing to distribute SpinSheet should contact the SpinSheet office at (410) 216-9309 or beatrice@spinsheet.com.
Member Of:
Zen and the Art of Getting Over It
By Molly Winans
Ibroke my left wrist last month while hiking in the Andes in Argentina. It had snowed the day before (it’s fall there), so even though we were walking in a flat area on a sunny 40-degree day, brush lined our path, blocking the sunshine from melting ice patches here and there. I found one of them. Down I went.
Our guide, Daniel, asked me if I could feel my fingertips (I could). I sat for a moment to shake off the initial brunt of it and some nausea, and we kept going. Our group of seven stopped shortly thereafter along the river for warm pumpkin soup, chicken burritos, and water. I could feel my wrist swelling. It didn’t hurt while walking, only while moving it, so I kept it still as possible.
The other Dan, my amazing travel partner, handed me an alfajores (two soft chocolate cookies sandwiched together with dulce de leche in the middle), which along with Tylenol helped me feel better. We would hike for two more hours before reaching the town of El Chaten where our shuttle and an ice pack for my wrist awaited. Did I mention this took place in one of the most stunningly beautiful places I’ve ever seen?
The previous day I’d walked 12 miles in the snow to Laguna Torre, clambering
around slushy rocks and taking photos with an iceberg and glacier backdrop, yet now I felt lame and wimpy for slowing our group down.
One of our trekking partners, Steve, whom I’d just met, asked me how I was feeling.
“I’m alright,” I said. “Mad at myself for messing up this day.”
He shrugged and said, “It’s all a part of it.”
He screwed my head on straight in one Zen comment.
This concept applies to any outdoor pursuit but certainly to sailing. If you sail long enough, you’ll experience perfect beam-reach, sunshiny glory days. You’ll enjoy a wild sleigh-ride spinnaker run that’s such a rush you’ll shout “Wooo!” You’ll sail among dolphins playing on the bow, glide along into breathtaking sunsets with people you love, sail under a full moon, cross the finish line first, sail in turquoise waters in a tropical paradise, and tie up more days than one claiming it was “the best sailing day of my life.” It’s all a part of it.
If you sail long enough, you’ll get cold, wet, bruised, irritated, bloody, dehydrated, overheated, seasick, bug bitten, and sunburned. You might find yourself stuck on a boat for a full day or longer with someone you dislike intensely. At some point, the head will break, backfire, or stink up the whole cabin. You’ll rip sails, fall overboard, broach, slam into a dock, collide with another boat, sky a halyard at an inconvenient moment, bust a rudder, get dismasted, get caught in an epic, terrifying storm, or break a bone. It’s all a part of it.
As John Herlig puts it in his wise article “Great Expectations” (page 47), the highs and the challenges “occupy the same space” in the sailing life—my Zen trekking pal may say the same for life in general.
Would I do it all over again? Yes, fall and all. Thank you to Dan for being my human crutch on the path in Patagonia and beyond.
See you on the water!
# Hiking along the Fitz Roy Mountain range in Argentina right before the dreaded ice patch.
Best Cover in 10 Years
The cover photo for the March 2025 edition is amazing—best I’ve seen for 10-plus years. The smile on that guy’s face reminds me of the fun I started enjoying 53 years ago. Keep up the good work.
Gary Moler
You’re Among Friends in SpinSheet
Thank you so much for publishing my article. It looks great. More importantly, the whole issue is superb. Most sailing publications pride themselves on providing resources and useful information. SpinSheet does this and yet something more. Your magazine gives readers the sense that they’re among friends, part of a thoughtful and caring community. You combine knowledge and insights with kindness and compassion. I get the sense that everyone involved is not only talented but also has a gentleness about them. All I can say is wow. I’m at a loss for words. And I’m allegedly a writer. I am genuinely honored to be a small part of such a fine group.
Tom Mitri
Send your questions, comments and stories to editor@spinsheet.com
Blown Away
Iwas blown away when I saw Time Machine on the cover of SpinSheet for April. Thank you so much!! Making the cover has always been a bucket list item, and I feel very fortunate. Will Keyworth is such a master at composing great racing photos. This is one of my favorites from last year; I have a framed copy on my wall. This was our very first race in the boat, so it was a very special evening. The crew is as thrilled as I am. Thank you and the SpinSheet team.
Bruce Irvin
You’re welcome, Bruce! It certainly helps that you have a red-hulled racer and a winning team. It’s flattering to hear that having your image on the cover of SpinSheet was a bucket-list item. It is a gorgeous photo! Other sailors should know that they, too, could have their boat pictured on the cover. Of course, Annapolis racing sailors are lucky, as we often have a photographer on the water during racing season, such as Will Keyworth and Ted Morgan, but our cover shots don’t have to be taken by professionals. All year long we welcome prospective cover shots—of racing boats, cruising boats, daysailers, and dinghies—from readers anywhere on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries (including DC and Alexandria). Send your cover ideas to editor@spinsheet.com. Images must be high-resolution, preferably “portrait-style” (rather than landscape), and show at least one sailboat. We gravitate toward photos that show sailors’ faces. Send shots anytime.
~M.W.
1. Boat insurance isn’t just for accidents
2. Accidents can happen to anyone
With comprehensive coverage, you’ll also be protected nancially for theft, vandalism, and unexpected events like storms if you need repairs or replacements due to damage.
When accidents happen, boat insurance offers liability coverage for damages or injuries you cause while boating, up to speci ed limits. It can also cover lawsuit costs if you’re sued.
3. Boat insurance can cover medical payments
Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you’re in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. and af liates. Product features are subject to policy terms and conditions and may not be available in all states or for all vehicles and coverage selections.
*No. 1 rating based on boat market share data from Rate lings.com.
Sign & Glide® is an optional coverage you can add to any Progressive Boat policy and costs $30/annually ($50/annually in Florida). Prices are subject to change.
ve things you should know about boat insurance
Are you ready to embark on your next on-water adventure? Before you set sail, here are ve things to know about boat insurance.
4. Most lenders require boat insurance
If you nanced your boat, you’ll likely need boat insurance since most lenders require boat insurance to protect their investment. Additionally, some marinas or municipalities require proof of insurance for docking.
5. Progressive offers specialized boat coverages Ever worry about getting stuck on the water?
Progressive’s Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage** can help. It’s an additional coverage that steps in if your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, paying for on-water towing, jump starts, soft ungroundings, and fuel delivery. Fuel cost isn’t included.
Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your voyage. Cruise with con dence thanks to Progressive Boat insurance. Because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes.
Go to progressive.com to learn more.
The Real Summer Kickoff: Watching the Blue Angels Annapolisin
Whereas Memorial Day tends to be the summer kickoff in most waterfront communities, the week beforehand—specifically the Tuesday and Wednesday beforehand—stand out for Annapolis sailors as summer’s festive launch. On those days we invite guests to join us on our boats, pack up coolers, put on some sunblock and sun hats, maybe add some earplugs to our kits, and head out to Annapolis Harbor to drop anchor for the big event: The Blue Angels flight rehearsal and demonstration for the week of the US Naval Academy (USNA) Commissioning Week.
As they do every year in America’s Sailing Capital, the U.S. Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, will perform a variety of highspeed, aerobatic precision-maneuvers above the Severn River on Tuesday, May 20 (practice) and Wednesday, May 21 (demonstration) to the cheers of the on-water and onshore crowds. The performance and flight demonstration will be narrated from Ingram Field on the USNA campus.
The Blue Angels flight demonstration exhibits high-level choreographed refinements of Navy-trained flying skills. The show includes four-plane aerobatic maneuvers including the famous delta and diamond formations when the wings can be as close as 12 to 16 inches apart. These formations also include rolls, breakouts, and loops.
This year, four Naval Academy graduates are part of the Blue Angels team: #1 Commander Adam Bryan 2005, Flight Leader and Commanding Officer; #5 Commander Thomas Zimmerman 2009 (NAPS ‘05), Lead Solo; #6 Lieutenant Connor O’Donnell 2015, Opposing Solo; and #7 Major Scott Laux 2012, narrator.
A few details spectators and visitors should know: The Naval Academy Bridge (Md. Rt. 450) will be closed 1:45 to 4 p.m. (or at the conclusion of the flight demonstration).
The Severn River will also be closed to boating and other watercraft from the Naval Academy Bridge to Spa Creek. The Naval Academy Police, Maryland State Police, U.S. Coast Guard, and the Department of Natural Resources Police will en-
force this closure. Call U.S. Coast Guard Sector Maryland at (410) 576-2693 for further details.
The air show (Wednesday) will be preceded and followed by several other events for the public’s enjoyment. At 1 p.m. the Navy Band will perform on Hospital Point. At 12:30 p.m. the USNA Drum and Bugle Corps will perform on Radford Terrace. At 4 p.m. Monte Maxwell will perform an organ concert in the main chapel.
Chief of Naval Operations Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz (USNA Class of 1905) ordered the creation of a naval flight demonstration team in 1946 to raise interest in naval aviation and boost morale. 2021 marked the team’s 75th anniversary and the Blue Angels’ 35th year flying the Boeing F/A-18 Hornet. In 2021 the team transitioned to the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet. Since 1946, the Blue Angels have performed for nearly 500 million fans.
Learn more about the Blues at blueangels.navy.mil; Find the USNA Commissioning Week schedule at usna. edu/CommissioningWeek/schedule.php
# Photo by Ted Morgan
CBMM Celebrates 60th Anniversary
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) officially opened its doors on May 22, 1965, as a project of the Historical Society of Talbot County amid a still-bustling complex of workboats, docks, and seafood packing houses on Navy Point in St. Michaels, MD.
Over the past six decades, CBMM has blossomed into a world-class maritime museum and vital community partner serving more than 80,000 guests per year on its 18-acre campus in fulfillment of its mission to preserve and explore the history, environment, and culture of the entire Chesapeake Bay region, and make this resource accessible to all.
Throughout 2025, CBMM will look back on its six decades through a series of mission-focused videos highlighting key themes across its history. The anniversary festivities also include a
“Celebrating 60 Years of CBMM” logo, social media highlights, an exclusive CBMM Member Night program, and more milestone moments woven into its annual festivals and programming.
The fun culminates with CBMM’s annual Boating Party Fundraising Gala on Saturday, Sept. 6, which will mark the diamond anniversary with a glamorous evening of celebration to benefit the organization’s mission.
Win a FRee 6-Month Slip in
The anniversary video series kicks off with “Celebrating 60 Years of Collections Stewardship.” This installment delves into CBMM’s collections and shares how the museum cares for more than 90,000 artifacts while spotlighting the storytelling about the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse through the eyes of the family of former assistant keeper Harold Messick. Stay tuned at cbmm.org for more as CBMM celebrates throughout the year!
# The beautiful CBMM waterfront in St. Michaels. Photo courtesy of CBMM
If you were to wade in the Chesapeake Bay up to your knees, could you see your feet? And if so, what does it matter? Find out on June 14 by bringing the whole family to the 16th annual Cecil County Wade-In from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Veteran’s Park in Charlestown, MD.
This free event is open to the public and focuses on educating attendees about water quality issues facing local waterways and providing information and resources.
The concept for this event was the brainchild of the late Maryland Senator Bernie Fowler. He remembered being able to wade into the Patuxent River chest deep as a young man and being able to see his feet. He started the tradition of wading into the water to see how far you could get before your feet disappeared.
According to Katie Bagri of the Cecil County DPW Stormwater Management Division, “The wade in provides a
Can You See Your Feet?
unique opportunity for people to connect with the water and learn that we all play a critical role in keeping our waterways safe and healthy.”
Drug Free Cecil and Cecil County law enforcement will conduct a prescription drug take back. Cecil County Animal Services (CCAS) will collect gently used linens (without holes or tears) to keep animals comfortable during their time at CCAS. Multiple nonprofit organizations fostering environmental stewardship will be in attendance to provide information to attendees.
Exhibitors include the Phillips Wharf Fishmobile, DNR Scales and Tales, the Skipjack Martha Lewis, Maryland Park Service, Coast Guard Auxiliary (providing boater safety information), Natural Resources Police Helicopter, the PK Barnes Ice House Museum, and more.
Organizers expect more than 200 attendees at the fun community event for kids and adults of all ages. Get ready to wade into the river at Veteran’s Park in Charlestown along the Northeast River from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 14.
# Bring the whole family to the Wade-In and learn about why water quality matters. Photo by Katie Hundertmark/Cecil County
Big Little Boat Festival
Calling all small boat lovers.
Chesapeake Light Craft (CLC) will hold a Big Little Boat Festival on Saturday, May 17 at Conquest Beach in Centreville, MD, on the Chester River. Registration is free. Camping (reservations required by May 13) will be available on Friday and Saturday nights, so make a whole weekend of it.
This one-day rendezvous will be held rain or shine and will be packed with fun family activities to include a kids’ cardboard boat building competition and race, SUP and rowing coaching, and, of course, small boat building seminars. CLC’s rowing, sailing, and paddling fleet will be available for onwater demos. CLC will have lots of gear for in-water trials, but you can help keep the lines down by bringing your own paddles and lifejackets.
Boatbuilders are encouraged to bring their boats to play with and/or enter the boatbuilding contest. Bring your boat, show off your hard work, and hopefully, you will win a prize!
On-water demos will run from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m., and during that time informal coaching on SUP or rowing will be available on the beach. Technical seminars will run at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m., approximately. The exact schedule may adjust slightly, so check the website, clcboats.com, before heading to Centreville. The kids’ cardboard boat building and race are planned for 1 p.m., and boat building awards will be presented at 4 p.m. Conquest Beach is situated on the 758-acre Conquest Preserve between the Corsica and Chester Rivers. It boasts a living shoreline and a huge pavilion that can seat more than 100 people. There is no trailer launching on the beach, so bring a dolly to launch, if you have one. Bigger boats can be launched at the Centreville boat ramp; don’t forget to purchase your launch permit in advance. Find more information and registration at clcboats.com
# May 17, join enthusiasts of small sailboats, powerboats, and paddle craft. Photo courtesy of CLC/Facebook
ONE DESIGN, DUAL PURPOSE
The Grand Soleil 44 was a great challenge for Cantiere del Pardo. Designed by Matteo Polli, a designer renowned for his high-performance hull lines, the 44-footer completes the Performance range by showing a well-balanced relationship between size and performance. The Grand Soleil 44 is the cURRENT REIGNING ORc WORLD cHAMPION having won all four past events in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
The Grand Soleil 44 is available in two models. The first, the Performance model, has a sail plan and deck setup that allows you to sail easily and simply. The second, the Race version, has a competitive character and identity. Both versions ooze the timeless style and elegance that are the hallmarks of the entire Grand Soleil range.
AIRY, LIVEABLE, BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS
The Grand Soleil 44 is the proof that performance doesn’t need to sacrifice comfort at all, thanks to large and beautiful interior spaces, amplified by the brightness that filters through the windows of the hull and the deck. Three cabins and two bathrooms, both with separate shower cubicles, complete the relaxation area. The L-shaped kitchen and dinette with a comfortable U-shaped sofa and table are positioned centrally, offering hospitality to up to eight people. Another three-seater sofa with a chart table adds even more comfort and flexibility for guests onboard.
To learn more about Grand Soleil Yachts or schedule a private viewing, visit www.davidwaltersyachts.com
New Executive Director at Downtown Sailing Center
The Downtown Sailing Center (DSC) in Baltimore recently named Sharon Lacy as its new executive director. To introduce her to our readers, we reached out with a few questions. Here is what Lacy shared: Lacy: I grew up in central Connecticut, not too far from Hammonasset Beach on Long Island
Sound. As a kid, I watched sailboats on the horizon off Meigs Point, and I just knew I had to sail. It would be decades before I learned, but once I started, I was completely hooked.
I learned on a dinghy, and within a week or two I was racing weekdays and weekends year ’round from 470s to racing cruisers on Middle River with Glen Mar Sailing Association. I learned every position from rail meat to skipper, though my favorite is foredeck. I’ve done several Gov Cups, frostbite races, and Northern Bay Race Week, and for a time owned a Cal 9.2, Full Tilt Boogie.
I’m a Baltimore City resident and an established business leader in the private sector and with nonprofits in the region, but in my heart of hearts, I am a sailor. When I saw the posting for the executive director role at DSC, I found my dream job.
The most exciting aspect of leading the DSC is the opportunity to grow the sport through community outreach and engagement programs. Our staff is absolutely first-rate, and we are especially proud of our programming that elevates the lives and experiences of people with disabilities and youth with limited opportunities who, through sailing, expand their perceptions of possibility in their lives. I am excited to build on this legacy that promotes the transformative power of sailing, which is not just a sport—it is a platform for personal growth, confidence building, and leadership development.
The DSC is a place where people come together to learn, compete, and form lasting friendships, and I’m eager to help foster that sense of community. More than ever, we believe it is a time calling for shared moments of joy and expressions of community. Come sail with us and see. downtownsailing.org.
# Sharon Lacy
Let’s Go Watch Some Racing in New York Harbor!
You’ve heard of the Rolex SailGP Championship, a global racing circuit that takes place in iconic locations all over the world, including San Francisco, Auckland, Sydney, and Rio de Janeiro. Did you know that the next stop is New York City June 7-8? The Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix 2025 will be the last event of the season taking place in the United States. Wouldn’t it be fun to go watch the action?
The race stadium will be set up on Governor’s Island, south of the Financial District and across from the Statue of Liberty. Spectators arrive by ferry from the Battery Maritime Building in lower Manhattan. The two days of racing take place rain or shine; viewers watch from outdoor grandstands.
Racing takes place on standardized racecourses designed for speed and spectator engagement. The entire fleet of high-performance, foiling F50 catamarans goes head-to-head across six
to seven intense, short fleet races, lasting roughly 15 minutes each. The first three to four fleet races unfold on the first day of the event, and the final three take place on the second.
There are six full-time roles onboard the F50: a strategist, driver (helmsman), wing trimmer, flight controller (works with the wing trimmer and driver to keep the boat flat, locked in, and stable), and two grinders. In light wind conditions, the race committee might instruct teams to drop down to four crew to make the F50s lighter.
The SailGP race weekend will feature world-class racing, live music, premium hospitality, and après-sail entertainment, with everything unfolding against the backdrop of New York Harbor.
Check in at the race stadium at 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. You may purchase tickets for one day or the full weekend; prices start at $85. Find details at sailgp. com (the online “Beginner’s Guide to SailGP” is particularly helpful).
Gather some local sailing friends, hop on Amtrak, and head to NYC for an exciting sailing weekend. If you do decide to go, shoot a note to our editor at editor@ spinsheet.com. We’ll see you there!
You got new charts! Explore the ocean with vibrant terrain & depth shading, using all-new TZ MAPS. Don’t just take our word for it. See for yourself. Scan here, and we’ll show you!
# Photo by Jon Buckle for SailGP
New Film Sheds Light on Buddy Melges’s Sailing Legacy
By Craig Ligibel
With the help of the Schoonmaker Foundation, Quicklier Films has released a second film chronicling the incredible sailing career of Buddy Melges. The film “Lessons from the Wizard” is free to sailing schools to license and share in their programs. It’s a cut-down version of the full-length film, “The Wizard of Zenda,” which has enjoyed wide acclaim since its debut two years ago. The new film features all new segments that highlight some of the things about character and attitude that Buddy was so passionate about.
Annapolis sailor, sailing commentator, and America’s Cup winner, Gary Jobson, who has sailed with and against Melges helps pull the various beliefs that he held into a cohesive list of principles upon which
to build a successful sailing career and a meaningful life.
“Buddy Melges is one of the greatest American racing sailors of our era. He built his career on clever tactical and boat handling techniques and endless practice routines, and he had a relentless quest to find innovative ways to sail faster. Buddy’s lessons outlined in the new film will help every sailor improve their performance. Mark Honer and Anne Petersen are to be commended for producing this inspiring film.”
Drawing upon an unparalleled lifetime of sailing achievements, the producers use real life examples from Buddy’s sailing resume to illustrate his eight true-life lessons.
During the America’s Cup campaign of 1992 Buddy’s sailing credo was put to the test as he and Bill Koch butted
heads on a number of issues. Koch was all about technology. Buddy was more of a seat-of-the-pants sailor. The two came to words during the run up to the campaign but eventually reached a happy compromise with them coming together to build the kind of team that could win the Cup.
In the end it was Buddy’s commitment to sailing fair and treating his competitors as one would want to be treated that carried the day for the US Team. Buddy called the victory of America3 “his greatest achievement.” This and other Melges milestones are portrayed in the 50-minute film.
In addition to his unwavering commitment to fair sailing and sportsmanship, other Melges les-
you need is included! * Complete sail rig - 5 sails & roller furling (18HP Yanmar)
* Lines run to the cockpit for single-handed sailing
* 2nd boat: 8’ dingy with 3.5HP Nissan Outboard and Sail rig
* FULL set electronics, safety gear, lots lines & gear
* Galley: everything you need for meal & beverage prep
sons include leading with humility, putting the team first, embracing technology, sharing what you learn, listening to Mother Nature, learning from your losses, and learning by competing.
Executive producer and broadcast journalist Anne Peterson was inspired to pursue this deep dive into the Melges legacy. “Buddy taught me so much about sailing and about life. We just had to put together a cohesive look at how others could apply his lessons to their own circumstances,” says Peterson, who grew up sailing under Buddy’s tutelage on Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva.
Sailing schools, non-profits, and yachts clubs can request a free license for “Lessons from the Wizard” at wizardofzenda.com or by emailing the producers at sail@wizardofzenda. com. The feature length documentary, “Melges: The Wizard of Zenda,” is available for rental or purchase and in-person or virtual screenings.
We know we’re amazing... but we’d love to hear it from you! Have we blown your mind with our amazing stories? Maybe we’ve made you laugh, cry, or given you something to humblebrag to your sailing friends. Either way, it’s time to shower us with your praise.
(You know you want to!)
Perks for your kind words:
If we use your testimonial in our editor’s note or letters page, for example, we will send you a cool hat as a thank you (or a bribe)
Thanks for being the best audience ever!
Now, tell us how great we are!
Email molly@spinsheet.com or scan code and tell us why we’re your favorite.
# Buddy Melges photo by Sharon Green/Ultimate Sailing
Robert Ladd, Yacht Designer (1946-2025)
Robert Anthony Ladd, 78, of Annapolis, MD, passed away March 16 surrounded by his loved ones.
Rob was born on July 25, 1946. He grew up in New York and graduated from the Cambridge School of Weston in Massachusetts. He attended American University, University of Maryland, and Anne Arundel Community College.
Aloysious “Al” Hinnegan offered Rob a chance to deliver a 41-foot S&S sloop from Annapolis to New York when he was 15 years old, fueling his passion for sailing, and offering him guidance and opportunities; the two delivered 10 boats that summer alone. Al remained an important influence in Rob’s life. While Rob was in college, Al invited him to deliver a boat from Annapolis to San Diego along with Jan Miles (now captain of the Pride of Baltimore II). He earned his six-pack captain’s license, worked for various boat owners, and started building boats with naval architect Peter Van Dine.
Rob established Kaufman and Ladd with F. Michael Kaufman and later worked for John G. Alden of Florida designing yachts, followed by establishing Rob Ladd Yacht Design. Designing various types of boats was his passion. Among his designs were the Topaz, Skye 51 and 54, Albin Nimbus 42, Annapolis 65, Finya 75, Ladd 110,
a 27-foot MORC boat (Timberwolf), and other custom designs.
“He sailed everywhere, all over the world,” said his wife Kellie, noting his passage from Tahiti to New Zealand on the Skye 54 among other trips including the Panama Canal. “He sailed offshore in SORC (where he met Jimmy Buffett), Wednesday night beer can races, all of it! I used to tell him, ‘You’re related to Neptune.’”
Rob remained deeply involved in the Annapolis community. Among other activities, he was one of the founders of the Eastport Yacht Club and instrumental in organizing and supporting the Leukemia Cup. He was the first to be honored with the Sarah McMann Courage Award, in honor of Sarah McMann, a spirited high-school student battling cancer who became the regatta’s honorary skipper.
“We both shared a passion for cancer research advocacy,” said John Dodge, former Leukemia Cup chair who created the award. “Rob was a positive light in a dark fight. Cancer survivors know that there’s always that realm of possibility that our cancer could come back. He understood how important such research advocacy was and always supported the Leukemia Cup.”
# Rob at the helm of Celebration, which he designed in 2010.
# Kellie and Rob.
SpinSheet photographer and Annapolis sailor Will Keyworth said, “I met Rob when he designed Timberwolf in MORC. When we went to a Storm Trysail party, we gravitated toward one another. Our conversations were always about boating, about the fundamental stuff, no frills. Talking with Rob was like sitting in your living room with your comfy slippers on.”
Rob loved spending time with his wife Kellie, family, and friends, as well as fly fishing, yacht racing and cruising, and sponsoring Midshipmen from the US Naval Academy.
Rob is survived by his wife Kellie Ladd; his sister Sarah L. Meiklejohn and brother-in-law John H. Meiklejohn; and his niece Katherine E. Meiklejohn and nephew Anthony S. Meiklejohn.
A celebration of life will be held in the near future. In lieu of flowers, friends may make donations to Robert and Kellie’s Go Fund Me: gofund.me/8aa4e378
Sign Up To Receive Our
Email Newsletters
# Rob at right.
Our All Killer, No Filler Crab Cakes Ship www.goldbelly.com/boatyard-bar-and-grill
May
3
Solomons Maritime Festival
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, MD. Antique Boat and Marine Show, toy boat building for kids, free 30-minute cruises on the Wm. B. Tennison, local music, Chesapeake Bay retrievers, model boats, and more. Free.
3 Blues, Brews, & BBQ Festival
Sample more than 30 different craft beers, dig into some amazing BBQ (available for purchase), and listen as some of the best Blues musicians in Hampton Roads and beyond take the stage at Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown, VA.
3 MarylandFest
12 to 6 p.m. at Historic St. Mary›s City in Southern Maryland. Free.
3-4
43rd Annual Havre de Grace Decoy and Wildlife Art Festival Presented by the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum at the e STAR Centre, 700 Congress Avenue, Havre de Grace, MD. Includes the Susquehanna Flats Marine Exhibition (free; Decoy Festival admission is $10).
15 Conservation of USS Monitor Evening lecture series, 7 to 9 p.m. at the Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News, VA. In-person ($10, free for members) and virtual (free). Register to attend at marinersmuseum.org
16
CRAB Fundraiser Concert: Janie Meneely and Rob van Sante A lively and folksy line-up of songs about the Chesapeake Bay. Tickets cost $20 general admission for pre-sale (ends three days before the event): $35 on concert day; $50 VIP seating. Bring a lawn chair and cash for drinks. 6-8 p.m. at CRAB Adaptive Boating Center.
16
Get To Know Jeanneau Event
Crusader Yacht Sales will feature the full Sun Odyssey line and answer all your Jeanneau questions. At Bert Jabin Yacht Yard in Annapolis from 2 to 6 p.m. For more information, contact (410) 269-0939. RSVP: bit.ly/4cmCuHg
17 CLC Big Little Boat Festival
A day of waterfront fun at Conquest Beach on the Chester River. Free and open to the public. The CLC rowing, sailing, and paddling fleet will be available for on-water demos. Also boatbuilding seminars, kids’ cardboard boatbuilding, food truck, and more.
17 Excess Catamaran Tour Event
Crusader Yacht Sales will feature the Excess 14 and answer all your Excess questions. At Bert Jabin Yacht Yard from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, contact (410) 269-0939. RSVP: bit.ly/42BrdPY
17-18 Cambridge Classic Powerboat Regatta
The oldest active powerboat race in the country happens on Hambrooks Bay off the Choptank River in Cambridge, MD. Admission is free with a $5 a day donation for parking. Watch on land at Gerry Boyle Park at Great Marsh.
17-18 Southern Maryland Heritage Festival
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Historic Sotterley in Hollywood, MD.
20 Blue Angels Flight Rehearsal Annapolis
2 p.m. over the Severn River in Annapolis. Part of U.S. Naval Academy Commissioning Week.
21 Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Annapolis
2 p.m. over the Severn River in Annapolis. Part of U.S. Naval Academy Commissioning Week.
24
CMM Waterside Music Series
7 p.m. at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, MD. Live music by Jordan Davis.
25 NorthCoast On-Water Experience
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. rain or shine at Eastern Bay Yachting Center (1804 Crab Alley Drive, Chester, MD). Join Pocket Yacht Co. and reserve your VIP ride aboard the NorthCoast 315HT, 255HT, and 235HT. RSVP by May 22nd at: sales@pocket-yacht.com or at pocketyachtco.com
Crabcakes
Chesapeake Calendar presented by
May (cont.)
31 Campbell’s Nautical Flea Market
8 a.m. to noon, rain or shine, indoors at Campbell’s Boatyards - Oxford, MD. Unload gear or stock up for the season. Free to the public. To set up a table, email info@campbellsboatyards.com
31 Herrington Harbour North Marina Resort Boater Yard Sale 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Herrington Harbour North (389 Deale Rd, Tracys Landing, MD). Come find great deals on all things boating-related including boats, boating gear, outboards, rigging, sails, and more! Do you have boating gear to sell? Reserve a spot by contacting David at david@herringtonharbour.com or (410) 867-4343. There is no fee to sell, however registration is required.
31 - Jun 1
Hampton Blackbeard Festival Hampton’s waterfront comes alive with dozens of pirate re-enactors, costumed in historically accurate garb, who transform today’s Hampton into the busy seaport of yesterday. At Mill Point Park and Downtown Hampton, VA.
May Racing
through May 28
AYC Wednesday Night Racing Series 1 Hosted by Annapolis YC. through May 28
BCYA Tuesday Night Racing
Hosted by the Baltimore City Yacht Assocation.
2-4 Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series Annapolis Presented by Sailing World, Hosted by Annapolis YC, Annapolis.
3
FBYC Offshore Spring Regatta 2 Hosted by Fishing Bay YC, Deltaville, VA.
3 Typhoon East Coast Championships
Hosted by the Rappahannock River YC, Irvington, VA.
3-4
Mid-Atlantic Sunfish Regional Championship Hosted by Hampton YC.
3-4
Sunfish Worlds Qualifier Regatta
Hosted at Hampton Yacht Club.
4
CCVR Spring Series 3
Hosted by CCV Racing, Southern Chesapeake Bay.
4
FBYC One Design Spring Regatta Hosted by Fishing Bay YC, Deltaville, VA.
9 - Aug 29 EYC Beer
Can Races Friday nights. Hosted by Eastport YC.
9 - Sep 26 Oxford
Amateur Racing Series (OARS) Hosted by Tred Avon YC, Oxford, MD.
10
10
AYC Spring Race to Oxford Hosted by Annapolis YC.
FBYC One Design Spring Regatta 2
Hosted by Fishing Bay YC, Deltaville, VA.
10
OPCYC Yankee Station Series Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.
17
5th Annual EWE Spirit Cup Sailing Club of the Chesapeake, Annapolis, MD. In support of the EWE Spirit Foundation.
17
BBSA Cape Henry Cup Hosted by Broad Bay Sailing Association, Southern Chesapeake Bay.
17 Hampton Roads Hospice One Design Regatta #2 of the One Design Series. Hosted by Hampton YC.
17-18
FBYC Offshore Spring Invitational Hosted by Fishing Bay YC, Deltaville, VA.
17-18
ILCA Atlantic Coast Championships
Hosted by Severn Sailing Association, Annapolis, MD.
17-18 TAYC Spring Start-Up Hosted by Tred Avon YC, Oxford, MD.
20-21 College Sailing Fleet Race NationalsWomen’s Semifinals
Hosted at St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
22-23 College Sailing Fleet Race NationalsWomen’s Finals
Hosted by St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
23-24 Down the Bay Race 75th Anniversary
Hosted by Hampton YC and Storm Trysail Chesapeake Station.
24 Annapolis to Miles River Race Hosted by Miles River YC with assistance by Eastport YC.
26
OPCYC Yankee Station Series Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.
27-28 College Sailing Open Semifinals
Hosted by St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
29-30 College Sailing Open Finals
Hosted by St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
30 - Jun 1
Southern Bay Race Week Includes #2 of One Design Series. Hosted by Hampton YC.
31 - Jun 1
TAYC Jim Thompson Cup Regatta Hosted by Tred Avon YC, Oxford, MD.
Do you have an upcoming event? Send
For more details and links to event websites, visit spinsheet.com/calendar
June
4
A2N Seminar: Race Weather Forecasts
One of the “What To Expect” seminars for the Annapolis Newport Race. 6 p.m. at Annapolis YC.
7-8 SMBC Piney Point Rumble On the River Vintage race boat exhibition presented by Southern Maryland Boat Club at Piney Point Landing. Free admission, food truck on-site, access to pits during lunch.
13-15 37th Antique and Classic Boat Festival and Coastal Arts Fair
Hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society, the festival is one of the largest classic boat shows in the MidAtlantic region. This year’s theme is “Boats Made Popular Through TV and Film.” Boating history talks, maritime vendors, juried artists, nautical flea market, children’s activities, free boat rides, Field of Dreams (boats for sale), food vendors, and more. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Father’s Day weekend at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD.
14
Bands in the Sand 5:30 to 10 p.m. at the Philip Merrill Environmental Center in Annapolis. All-inclusive fundraiser featuring live music, beach cuisine, open bar, raw oysters, and waterfront views. Directly supports the Chesapeake Bay Foundation›s work.
14 Cecil County Wade-In
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Veteran’s Park in Charlestown, MD. A free event that focuses on raising awareness of water quality issues to community members and providing them resources to get involved in keeping our waterways clean. Exhibitors include the Phillips Wharf Fishmobile, DNR Scales & Tales, Maryland Park Service, Coast Guard Auxiliary (providing boater safety information), National Resources Police Helicopter, the Skipjack Martha Lewis, the PK Barnes Ice House Museum, and more.
16 Storm Trysail Club Junior Safety at Sea Seminar
At Annapolis Yacht Club Sailing Center. Formed from the mandatory two-day adult seminar for offshore regatta participation, the Storm Trysail Club Foundation has tailored the Junior Safety-at-Sea (Jr.S@S) program for a younger audience.
20-22 O’Day Sailboat Rendezvous
A Rendezvous for O’Day sailboats 30-40 feet LOA will be held on Whitehall Creek just south of the Bay Bridge. Activities will include libations and a social gathering raftup on Friday night. Saturday, those who wish may practice person overboard recovery, knot tying, and more, followed by dinner at Cantler’s Riverside Inn on Mill Creek. Sunday we will cruise to the Magothy River. For detailed information please contact Lou Krupnick at louismk@ verizon.net or (412) 512-3020. RSVP.
21 Summer Sailstice
An international celebration of sailing! Everyone is invited once a year to hoist sails and celebrate sailing ‘together’. Join an event or create your own for the chance to win prizes.
28 East of Maui - Eastport Yacht Club Chesapeake Standup Challenge
It’s still on! Seven-mile, three-mile, and one-mile “just for fun” SUP courses. 8 a.m. at Eastport YC. Party afterward ‘til noon.
June Racing
through Jun 1
Southern Bay Race Week
Includes #2 of One Design Series. Hosted by Hampton YC.
through Jun 1
TAYC Jim Thompson Cup Regatta Hosted by Tred Avon YC, Oxford, MD.
3-7
Santa Maria Cup Women’s Match Racing Hosted by Eastport YC.
4 - Jul 16 AYC
Wednesday Night Racing Series 2 Hosted by Annapolis YC.
6 Annapolis to Newport Race
Two starts: June 6 and 7. Hosted by Annapolis YC.
7 NERYC Invitational Race
North East River Yacht Club in North East, MD.
7 OPCYC Veteran’s Cup
Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.
7 Ted Osius Memorial Twilight Race Hosted by Sailing Club of the Chesapeake.
14
37th Annual Race to Cock Island
Skipper’s Party, June 13, 4:30 to 8 p.m. Race June 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Party 4 to 9 p.m. Hosted by Portsmouth Boat Club.
14 Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta
Hosted by Eastport YC with race committee support from Annapolis YC.
15 EYC Cruisers Cup Hosted by Eastport YC.
21 BBSA Summer Solstice Race Hosted by Broad Bay Sailing Association, Southern Chesapeake.
21 Don Backe Memorial CRAB Regatta
Hosted by Annapolis YC.
21-22
Corsica River YC
Wooden Boat Regatta Open to onedesign class wooden boats: Comets, Windmills, Hampton One Designs, Albacores, Penguins, and others. Hosted by the Corsica River Yacht Club.
21-22 EYC One Design Classic Hosted by Eastport YC.
22
HYC Doublehanded Race Hosted by Hampton YC.
26 - Jul 27
HYC Junior Annual Regatta
Virginia State Championship for the Optimist, ILCA 6, and c420 Class. Hosted by Hampton YC.
28 Broad Bay Regatta
Hosted by Broad Bay Sailing Association, Southern Chesapeake Bay.
28
NYCC Wolcott Memorial Regatta
Hosted by Norfolk Yacht and Country Club.
Becoming a Sailor
Sailing was a match.
Sylvie Duverger began sailing as a 12-year-old when her father gave her an Optimist sailboat “in order to keep his teenage daughter out of trouble.” At the time, her father was in the French military, and the family lived in Bora Bora. The Optimist was the only sailboat on the island. With no one to teach her, Sylvie learned to sail the small boat by herself and continued to sail until her 20s.
It wasn’t until she settled in Maryland that Sylvie began sailing again, nearly 30
By Julie Day and Sylvie Duverger
years later. “The kids had moved out, and my husband, Philippe, and I began looking for activities we could do together.” Sailing was a match for both.
From student to boat owner and instructor
In 2011, Sylvie joined the Pentagon Sailing Club (PSC) and took the ASA basic coastal and weather courses. She became more involved at the club by sharing her sailing skills with other members. She eventually got her ASA teaching certifications along with an OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel) license, also known as the “Six-Pack” or Charter Boat Captain’s License. Sylvie then became one of the teaching skippers at PSC introducing students to sailing on the Potomac River. She particularly enjoys sharing her sailing moments with both novice and seasoned women sailors.
In 2013 the couple bought a 34-foot Seafarer built in 1974, a sailboat classic! From the beginning, Sylvie wanted to fulfill her father’s dream of sailing across the Atlantic. They rebaptized the boat Moana, a Polynesian name meaning “ocean,” and spent the next six years rebuilding the boat: “new rigging, new engine, new electrical system, new sails, everything to make the boat ready for the ocean.”
Sylvie and Philippe spent most of those years sailing the Chesapeake with some ocean trials along the East Coast and Ber-
muda. “The boat always handled well, and we both improved our sailing skills.”
In 2014, Sylvie, like many other PSC members, started volunteering at the Annapolis Naval Academy coaching midshipmen who were participating in the CSTS (Command and Seamanship Training Squadron) summer program. The program enables midshipmen with no sailing experience to become relatively competent sailors within one week, after which they sail a 44-foot boat along the East Coast working on their leadership and teamwork skills. The crews are coed and consist of eight midshipmen and two volunteers. “It is a challenging and rewarding experience to witness a crew of Navy students overcome the challenges of ocean sailing and return to the Santee Basin with a new sense of seamanship.”
Crossing the Atlantic
In June 2021, Phillipe and Sylvie began their first cross Atlantic voyage. Although the winds were quite variable, it wasn’t until they were just north of the Azores that they hit a major gale. “For three days we encountered disorganized seas, high winds, and cold weather. We alternated watches every three hours. We were exhausted, cold, wet, and feeling stuck for a long time—that was the worst part.”
At one point during the night when Sylvie was at the helm, a huge wave broached the boat. Sylvie remembers tell-
# Sylvie and Philippe Duverger
# Training aboard the naval vessel Intrepid.
ing herself not to let go of the wheel. She landed in the water on the deck with her feet up in the air. Within three seconds the boat had righted, leaving Sylvie in shock. Philippe rushed up on deck and managed to heave-to for the remainder of the storm. Fortunately, there was only minor damage to the boat.
On July 11, after 40 days at sea, they finally reached La Rochelle, France, on the Bay of Biscay, where Sylvie had once lived. They stayed in La Rochelle over the summer, worked on repairs, and moved the boat first to Coruna, Spain, then to Lagos, Portugal.
The return trip the following year was relatively uneventful with steady trade winds pushing Moana the entire way. Their return journey took 47 days, and the sight of the number 14 red buoy marking the entrance to Chesapeake Bay was cause for celebration!
Sylvie shared her transatlantic story with PSC members showing a short video and describing how much she enjoyed the challenge of shorthanded sailing across the Atlantic on a small sailboat. “Sure, our boat is relatively slow and storage is limited, but that means more time on the water and fewer marina fees!” Sylvie remarked as well, “Sailing skills alone do not achieve your cruising goals; you need crew members who work well together, and you also need a well-prepared boat.”
Women on Water
Sylvie continues to teach the ASA 101 and 102 courses at PSC. As a skipper for PSC’s Women on Water group, Sylvie is of the opinion that women-only crews have a different dynamic than mixed or men only crews. “There is a camaraderie and a laid-back approach that better enables women-only crews to practice and improve their sailing capabilities. Of course, at PSC the post-sail social gatherings with anecdotes and refreshments are a valuable complement to the on-the-water sessions.” Moana fits the bill.
Meanwhile, Sylvie and Philippe con tinue their journey with Moana. Last June, the couple sailed Moana to Penobscot Bay, ME, and they have plans to sail around the Caribbean islands when Philippe retires in a few years. In the meantime, they con tinue to explore the Chesapeake.
Despite her accomplishments as a sailor, Sylvie remains adamant that “sailing expertise is only part of it; you need a good boat.” Moana fits the bill!
# Moana arriving at La Rochelle, France.
Find a SchoolSailing
New sailors or those returning to sailing may want to seek instruction or coaching at a sailing school or club. Many such organizations exist on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. They offer certifications for beginners, returning sailors hoping to brush up on seamanship skills, cruisers seeking bareboat chartering or navigation experience, and racers wanting to hone their skills. The following is a sampling of schools and clubs that offer sailing instruction on the Chesapeake. For a more complete list of schools offering certifications outside this region, visit US Sailing or American Sailing.
• Annapolis Sailing School annapolissailing.com
• Annapolis Naval Sailing Association ansa.org
• Blue Water Sailing School bwss.com
• Captain In You Sailing Schools, Inc. captaininyou.com
• DC Sail dcsail.org
• Gratitude Sailing Institute gratitudesailing.com
• J/World Annapolis jworldannapolis.com
• SailTime sailtime.com/annapolis
• Sail Solomons sailsi.com
• The Sailing Academy thesailingacademy.com
• West River Sailing Club learn2sailwrsc.com
Marinas That Meet Your Standards!
Anchorage Marina
Annapolis Landing Marina
Bowley’s Marina
Broad Creek Marina
Campbell’s Boatyards
Casa Rio Marina
Coles Point Marina
Crescent Marina
Cypress Marine
Dennis Point Marina and Campground
Ferry Point Marina Talbot
Flag Harbor Boatyard
Harbour Cove Marina
Hartge Yacht Harbor
Herrington Harbour North
Herrington Harbour South
Lankford Bay Marina
Lighthouse Point Marina
Maryland Marina
Nomad Norview Marina
Port Annapolis Marina
Rockhold Creek Marina
Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort
Sailing Associates Marina
Sassafras Harbor Marina
Selby Bay Yacht Club
Shipwright Harbor Marina
Skipjack Cove Yachting Resort
Spring Cove Marina
The Wharf at Handy’s Point
The Wharf Marina
Whitehall Marina
Yacht Haven of Annapolis
Out on the River, a Brighter Future and Dinner Await!
By Tom Guay
Sometime starting in late May, somewhere out on this broad estuary, somewhere slightly offshore from Hart-Miller Island, you will find small groups of youngsters applying a mix of newly acquired skills—fishing, boating, wildlife observation, culinary—to help feed their families that night with fresh-caught catfish.
On top of these skills, small groups of middle and high school students also get a chance to escape the concrete of Baltimore streets and discover the aquatic joys of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
Normally, the Chesapeake tributaries are a world away for many of these youngsters. Thanks to a novel program developed by Minister Brian Bordley with One More One Less Mentoring (OMOL), these students are out on the water in a fishing boat,
discovering new and exciting maritime and scientific opportunities that offer an alternative to their Baltimore city world.
Minster Bordley uses a mix of his fishing and culinary experiences to promote his nonprofit’s mission “to bring inner city kids to the water and learn how to fish.” There are many reasons why getting on the water is the goal, prime among them are feeding a family and reducing stress. And, thanks to a grant from the Chesapeake Bay Trust, OMOL and the student mariners will be shoving off again in 2025!
At first, Minister Bordley worked the shorelines, teaching his students how to work a fishing rod and all the steps needed to bring home fresh fillets: reeling ‘em in, removing hooks, scaling, dissecting, and cleaning.
Thanks to some grants and a benefactor who provided access to a 22-foot centerconsole fishing boat, the program kicked into high gear when Covid hit. It was a time when so many families were struggling; adults were out of work, students were out of school, and everybody was cooped up together at home. OMOL stepped in to provide some relief by taking the students out on the Chesapeake Bay.
The OMOL students, who call themselves “mariners,” can supplement the family’s dinner. Some of Bordley’s charges, as young as eight and 10 years old, brought home 10 to 15 pounds of ready-to-cook catfish fillets.
Plus, these young mariners have a ball. You can see it in their eyes. They’re learning new skills, building self-confidence, making new friends, expanding their social lives, and building pride in themselves by helping feed their families. As Minister Bordley relates: “They get off the boat with
# A proud mariner.
# Mariners of all ages on an OMOL fishing cruise.
Discover it all at Herringtonharbour.com
their heads up, chests out, and a bag of fillets for dinner. It’s a huge source of pride.”
It’s not just the kids having fun. Since 2020, the program has expanded to include adult chaperones, who are just as excited as the young mariners to be out on the Bay, soaking in the sunshine, enjoying a breeze, fishing, relaxing, and (even better than shore fishing) drifting down the river without the buzz of mosquitoes!
Once they’ve caught the fish … They’re also learning to be cooks. In an earlier life, Minster Bordley was an executive chef, so he shares his joy of cooking with his students, offering recipes for catfish they caught and some popular side dishes. During land-based activities, Bordley teaches students how to grow cabbages and how to steam them, braise them, blacken, and stir fry them.
One recipe has proven to be a huge hit: a blue cheese coleslaw. One of his youngsters was so proud when he shared a sample with his dad, who loved it. The youngster, says, “I can cook this!” His dad was amazed (and proud).
Minister Bordley enjoys finding ways to introduce his students to “real food” and “turn [his] kids into purveyors of fresh food.” He says he knows he’s making headway when his students realize how good fresh fish tastes compared to a fast-food version of a fish sandwich.
The stress reduction benefits of fishing
Minister Bordley uses fishing as a lure to overcome some students’ fear of the water and boats. He’ll use kayaks and paddleboards in pools to let the kids get comfortable with the water.
Once in the boat, other more important mental-health benefits accrue: “The rhythmic motion, the back and forth of fishing,” he explains, “helps reduce the stress these kids have to deal with.”
The simple tranquility of floating downriver calms their minds and increases their ability to concentrate as they learn to be patient. To catch a fish, they must focus on fishing, watch the fishing line, and be ready to reel in a catch. The experience helps the students “better deal with the pressures, conflicts, and bullying that pervade their lives in school and in their communities.”
There’s another benefit that a day on the water provides: sleep. Many of his students suffer from insomnia, especially after being cooped up in the house during Covid. There was a lot of tension at home. Nobody could go to work, kids weren’t in school, and everybody was living on top of each other. It’s hard to get a restful night’s sleep when the family’s suffering from cabin fever.
The fishing trips were a godsend to relieve these tensions. By sending the students out on the Bay, parents “get a bit of a break, too.”
Once out on the water, soaking up some sunshine and Vitamin D, Minister Bordley would notice his young mariners start nodding off. He’d let them take a nap. He credits the drowsiness to being out on the water. “It’s therapeutic,” he says about being on water. “It’s been scientifically proven, as detailed in ‘Blue Mind’ by Wallace Nichols, that the vibrational energy from water helps the body and mind slow down.”
For example, after a day on the water, one of his teenage mariners dozed off. Once back at home, his mom reported that her son slept through the night for the first time in months. He woke up refreshed and more like his old self the next day.
At other times, when he notices the kids getting drowsy, he’ll drop the anchor and let everybody nap. They’re lulled to sleep by the hypnotic sounds of passing motorboats, lapping of the waves on the hull and the gentle rocking of the boat. “It’s almost like a lullaby.” While the kids rest, Bordley gets a chance to do his own fishing. He rattles off other health benefits for his students. The salty air of the Chesapeake Bay helps clear their heads and nasal and respiratory passages in the same way that salt therapies help relax affluent spa customers. And the young mariners discover that the world of fishing creates a safe space where they no longer have to build walls around themselves to shut out the pressures and dangers of street life in Baltimore.
Even better, there’s a sense of adventure. Minister Bordley often arranges for the students to meet with Bay pilots who guide the giant cargo ships to and from Baltimore. They’ll tell tall tales of how “your Amazon gets delivered after the ships and crew avoid sea pirates, monster storms, and 100-foot waves.”
Filled with exciting sea tales, new friends, new experiences, and a bag of fish, the OMOL students are better prepared to deal with tomorrow.
About the Author: Thomas Guay, a veteran river rat, is a musicioner with the Eastport Oyster Boys and shares 18th century tunes and tales aboard the Schooner Woodwind. Find his debut historical novel, “Chesapeake Bound” (McBooks Press) in your local bookstore.
# Minister Brian Bordley.
# Pride in a day’s work.
Stories of the Century
So It Begins
Boaters on the Chesapeake have launched their challenge to log 100 on-water days within the calendar year. If you’d like to join the fun, click to spinsheet.com/join-spinsheet-century-club to read the rules and register. All are welcome into our free, inclusive SpinSheet Century Club. Log your days on sailboats, powerboats, paddle craft, or a combination. Here are some photos and on-water day counts for aspiring 2025 club members:
# Maude Laurence
Maude Laurence 13 Days
Maude logged 129 days in 2024. Here’s what she had to say about it:
Why did you challenge yourself to log 100 days on the water?
I do not have a boat, so every year I am curious how much time I am spending volunteering, racing, and cruising on other people’s boats. When I realized it was close to 100 days, a friend of mine challenged me to log my days in SpinSheet, and to my surprise 2024 was my second year of achieving this goal.
Name one remarkable thing that happened to you on the water in 2024.
I went to the BVI for the first time and spent 10 days sailing.
How did your sailing skills improve last year?
My confidence in my skills grows every year. I am a more confident racer, and I am working on becoming a skipper with Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB).
What are the qualities of a great crew member?
A great crew member listens and takes direction, needs to be a team player, and jumps in wherever needed.
What do you get out of doing the Century Club?
Being on the water is my happy place. It brings me joy knowing I have the opportunity to be on the water more than 100 days. It also gives me the opportunity to share my passion with others through volunteering with CRAB and Sail Beyond Cancer.
# Paddle guru Greg Brennan (29 days).
# David Sites (83 Days) in his favorite place.
Moler (37
Harbor,
# Rebekah Bromwell (27 days) on an exciting member sail out of the DSC.
# Drew Mutch (70 days) caught an Opti race on Tampa Bay.
Weekend Planner: The Wye River and St. Michaels
Sailing to the Wye River and onto St. Michaels isn’t something sailors just do once before checking it off their bucket lists. Cruisers sail here every year, in spring, summer, and fall, perhaps multiple times. You could sail to St. Michaels first and hit the Wye on your way home or vice versa. You could also spend an entire weekend in either place, depending on the vibe you seek.
Those who race in the annual Annapolis to Miles River Race over Memorial Day weekend know the route well: round those two red marks to starboard at the top of Eastern Bay (R “4” and R “6”) and head toward the Miles River. Racers keep going, of course, to find the finish line, but cruisers could choose to turn left at Bennett Point Lighthouse (giving the shoal a wide berth, keeping an eye on the chart) to head for the Wye River.
Why the Wye?
Lovely, quiet, magical: these are terms you hear cruisers use when you ask them why they choose this winding river. When choosing west or east branches, many go east for plentiful anchorage options and good kayak access at Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area (WNRM). Some cruisers never quite get there, as they enter Shaw Bay, the first protected anchorage on your right, and stay for the sunset.
Shaw Bay is also the home of a beloved annual event: the annual Shaw Bay Raftup Concert, featuring the Eastport Oyster Boys among other musicians who play from a boat to support ShoreRivers’s conservation efforts. The concert takes place the Saturday after Labor Day weekend (see the SpinSheet calendar come fall).
Those who continue up the East Wye will be rewarded with memorable gunkholing spots, such as Dividing Creek
or Granary Creek, and plentiful herons, ospreys, cormorants, turtles, starry skies, and many nooks and crannies to explore by dinghy or paddle craft. If you want to step ashore at WNRM, find the kayak launch in Dividing Creek (visit dnr.maryland.gov and search “Wye Island” for a map and park details).
WNRM consists of 2450 acres managed by the Maryland Park Service for resource management, recreation, and agriculture. The island provides habitat for waterfowl populations and other native wildlife (our editor spotted a great horned owl there). Sailors may hike six miles of mostly flat trails. The School House Woods Nature Trail takes you through a mature hardwood forest while the Ferry Landing Trail leads beneath a canopy of Osage Orange Trees. Wye Island also houses a Holly Tree that is more than 290 years old.
If you venture up the west Wye, Drum Point will offer plenty of room and perhaps
Making YOUR BOaT New Again!
some breeze. Again, you may go ashore on this side of WNRM. Once you’ve had your fill of Wye River solitude, it’s time to head to civilization, Eastern Shore-style…
10 Things To Do in St. Michaels
1. Dock at CBMM. Even if you prefer nights on the hook, treat yourself to a night at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum dock sometime, perhaps when you need to plug in for air conditioning or heat! It’s an ideal home base for discovering the shore’s most vibrant town.
2. Anchor out. Rather save your pennies for dinner in town? We get it. The St. Michaels anchorage is popular for good reason… it’s huge. If you anchor and paddle around, you’ll probably run into sailors you know. Dinghy into town or take the water taxi (hail the Harbor Shuttle on VHF 71 or (410) 819-9606), but be
warned that it’s not always running in the pouring down rain (truth). If thunderstorms are in the forecast and/or you prefer a quieter spot, Long Haul Creek or just outside its mouth offers good holding.
3. Stretch your legs. St. Micheals is a delightfully walkable town. If you do all 10 things on this list, you can cover it in less than a mile and a half… okay, maybe a bit more if you do #9.
4. Shop local. You may not be a “shopping” type, but do stroll into a few of the local shops and art galleries for high quality gifts and art. The CBMM store is worth a peek, too.
5. Grab a bite. There’s more to St. Michaels than crab cakes! The Bistro St. Michaels and Ava’s Pizzeria and Wine Bar come recommended.
# The 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, as the sun rises over the Miles River. Photo courtesy CBMM
Making YOUR BOaT
6. Test the flavors. Check out Justine’s Ice Cream Parlor. Walking down Talbot Street with an ice cream cone is what you’ve dreamed about all winter.
7. Taste some brews. For 17 years Eastern Shore Brewing has been making award-winning beers.
8. Sip some vino. Right next door to the brewery, you’ll find St. Michaels Winery where you can taste and buy local wines.
9. Explore the museum. If you do nothing else in St. Michaels, do this. Walk up the steps of the Hooper Strait Lighthouse, explore the many buildings on campus dedicated to all aspects of Chesapeake life from oyster canning to recreational boating, and see the latest exhibits.
10. Smile! Send a photo of your favorite St. Michaels moment to editor@spinsheet.com
# Entering the Wye. Photo by Martina Sestakova
From Sunfish to 33-Foot Sloop
What a Difference 20 Feet Makes
By Craig Ligibel
Fifty-year-old Annapolitan JC
Johns has had his hands on a boat tiller most of his life. Johns grew up helping his father crew the family’s 39-foot Westerly Sealord.
“I guess I learned how to sail by osmosis. Seems like we were always headed out somewhere along the Texas coast. When I moved to Annapolis, I ‘inherited’ my grandmother’s Sunfish. That became a weekend passion: pack some provisions and head out onto the Severn. There is not a lot of room, but it’s a lot of fun,” says Johns.
A growing family wanting more creature comforts necessitated a fleet upgrade.
“I figured if I wanted to bring my family and friends along on a Chesapeake sailing adventure, I needed a boat more suited to Bay cruising.”
Checklist items included a roomy cockpit, a head with a shower, enough sleeping room to accommodate two adults and a gaggle of teenage girls, a sail plan that was easy to singlehand, and just enough bells and whistles to make any voyage safe and enjoyable.
“I know JC has always wanted a bigger boat where he could share his love of sailing with me and the girls,” his wife of 25 years, Jessica, said.
“We started thinking about an upgrade after my mother passed away last year,” JC said. “I got to thinking that life is short. If you want something and can afford it, go for it. The sailing gods must have been smiling on us because we found just what we were looking for at a price we could afford just around the bend from our house on Chase Creek. It’s a big commitment. Jessica and I made a pact that if we took care of some things around the house, we’d put our toe in the big boat market and see what surfaced.”
The couple paid around $70,000 for the nine-year-old Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343.
“She was in pristine condition. I don’t think the stove had ever been turned on. Todd Taylor did the survey work. The seller’s broker, Deanna Sansbury, was very easy to work with.”
In preparation for skippering a bigger boat, JC took the ASA 101 and 103 courses at Annapolis Sailing School. He says, “The instructors were terrific. They assessed my abilities, listened to my objectives, and designed a sail-and-learn program that evened out the rough spots in my sailing resume and taught me the basics of big-boat sailing.”
JC says his wife loves the water but admits that she “probably will be happiest at anchor enjoying the sunset and listening to some tunes.” Cruising plans include the obligatory overnight in St. Michaels as well as four or five overnights up and down the Bay.”
Graduating from a Sunfish with a single sail measuring 75 square feet controlled by a single sheet to a more complex Beneteau with more than 500 square feet of sails and six lines leading into the cockpit is not an easy transition.
“That first sail was a little intimidating,” recalls JC. “There’s a lot that can go wrong with a rookie at the helm. A sailor buddy of mine told me that ‘bigger is
# Keeping a keen eye dead ahead.
# JC sneaks a peak around the bimini.
better.’ After a day on the water, I believe him. The Beneteau is a forgiving boat that makes it easy to sail with minimal crew. If you get into trouble, just let the lines run loose until you figure out your next move. It’s a lot different from crewing on somebody else’s boat. When you first take the wheel of your own boat, things get serious, and I get a little nervous.”
For JC’s first time skippering his new boat, appropriately named, La Dolce Vita (the sweet life), he opted to recruit a veteran cruising sailor (yours truly) to pass along some boat-handling wisdom as we headed out into the Severn one brisk day last fall.
JC had a good knowledge of seamanship from his coursework and previous time on the water. I was along as ballast and an advisor. JC’s 11-year-old daughter Ellie came along as crew. Throughout the sail, she proved herself more than capable at steering the nearly five-ton displacement craft as well as handling mooring duties and helping set the sails.
JC looked on with pride as Ellie took the wheel and steered the boat perfectly through our first official tack.” She’s a natural,” I shouted over the flap of the sails.” Just wait until she wants to put the rail down and start banging through the waves.”
Ellie shot me a grin, more than content to soak in the sun.
Our early afternoon sail was uneventful. We were the only sailboat on the river. As we worked our way to the big waters, we faced fluky winds that always seemed to be on our nose. By the time we poked out into the Bay, the wind had died down considerably, and we had mastered the cluster of lines running aft through a half dozen sail brakes.
Pretty soon the sun was setting, and we headed home, Ellie looking very salty as she steered the boat gently with her foot on the spokes of the wheel. JC and Ellie executed a textbook approach to the mooring ball. Before we knew it, we were headed back to the dock in JC’s Whaler.
“So how was it?” I asked the newly christened skipper.
“Success on the Severn,” he replied with a grin. “Not that much different than the Sunfish: same points of sail, same principles apply, but a whole lot more boat to push through the water. Next time we’ll get into some wind and see how she goes. As Captain Ron said, ’If anything’s gonna happen, it’s gonna happen out there.’”
“Dad did great, “chimed in Ellie. “We make a pretty good crew. I think
anchoring out will be fun. All we need is some popcorn and some good movies.”
Note: The survey JC commissioned prior to purchasing the Beneteau turned up a few little things that needed attention during the winter. High on the list was reconfiguring the bimini to install a plexiglass window to permit the helmsman to see the sails while underway. Other to-dos included a serviceable dinghy, new bottom, a painter that floats, a pickup pendant for ease of mooring, and a remote sensor for battery and bilge alarms. “And perhaps a refresh of the cushions to make my wife happy,” JC said with a smile.
A couple of tips from Old Salt Ligibel included labeling all lines leading into the cockpit; developing a pre- and postchecklist, and making sure to complete a safety briefing before casting off. My best piece of advice: don’t let a schedule dictate your day on the water. Go with the flow. Be mindful of the weather. Sometimes the best voyage is one that keeps you in port. Don’t go out if you feel the least bit uncomfortable. In a race between a cruising sailboat and a summer squall, the weather will always prevail.
# JC and Ellie at the helm. Photos by Craig Ligibel
# JC and Old Salt Ligibel.
What’s New in Marine Electronics for Sailors
By Capt. Mike Martel
Over time, we’ve seen innovative electronics products for sailors and powerboaters come in over the transom. Of course, they change every year, advancing in terms of levels of sophistication, usefulness, and the ability to expand the envelope of situational awareness and connectivity beyond what used to be possible even a few years ago.
New marine electronics for sailors include weather technology that helps with navigation and route planning, for example. Many innovative new products are looking to the sky and to satellite
connectivity. Some tools increasingly use buoy data to create forecast models and alternative routes to avoid storms and bad weather. Better GPS systems, chartplotters, and electronic charts provide real-time data to enhance navigation.
In 2025, advancements in marine electronics for sailors include higherdefinition radar systems with features such as scan averaging and dual-range capabilities, along with enhanced MFD (Multifunction Display) technologies, like those offered by Garmin, Raymarine, and others, to improve navigation and safety.
Key areas of advancement and notable features for radar include systems with enhanced clarity and performance, incorporating features like high-definition imaging and scan averaging to filter out sea clutter. Also emerging are dualrange with overlay systems that allow a single antenna to provide split-screen, side-by-side images of different radar ranges on compatible chartplotters, offering a wider view of surroundings. Here’s a sampling of innovative products:
Fantom 18-inch Pulse Compression Dome Radar with MotionScope Technology
Garmin’s new Fantom Pulse Compression Radar, available in four- and six-foot array sizes, is rated at a 48-nautical-mile range. Fantom uses the Doppler effect, which Garmin calls MotionScope Technology, to detect and highlight moving targets, such as small, fast vessels headed your way, flocks of birds, or weather cells.
MotionScope highlights the moving targets in different colors on the radar display so that you can navigate around other boats or severe weather or toward fishing spots where birds are feeding at the surface. Pulse Compression technology provides high resolution while maximizing energy, to enhance detection and identification of targets. It fully integrates with select Garmin chartplotters. garmin.com, $1488
B&G WM-4 Marine Satellite Weather/ Audio Receiver
The B&G WM-4 Marine Satellite Weather/Audio Receiver helps you stay weather-aware and also listen to news, a ballgame, or your favorite tunes. Key features include real-time SiriusXM marine weather information including detailed NOAA Marine Zone forecasts, NEXRAD weather-radar storm-cell attributes, weather radar, lightning alerts and watch boxes, marine zone forecasts, and sea surface temps, wind and wave forecasts, buoy data, and more. Of course, you will need a SiriusXM Marine Satellite Weather subscription.
The WM-4 is compatible with B&G Zeus3, Zeus3S, Zeus3 Glass Helm, and Zeus3S Glass Helm. There are several different subscription packages available, and probably the best choice is the Marine Offshore, the most comprehensive marine weather package. Marine Offshore includes all Coastal Package features, plus Sea Surface Temps for the entire SiriusXM coverage area, Weather, Wind and Wave Forecasts are extended from three hours to 48 hours, plus US and Canada Alerts. bandg.com, $499
Starlink Mini Kit High Speed Satellite Internet
The Starlink system for connecting to the internet via satellite has been in the news of late especially in rural areas of the country where severe weather has destroyed the usual modes of connection. Although Starlink systems are available in several different sizes and price ranges, the new ‘Mini Kit’ seems to be the best choice for the small boat operator in terms of functionality, size, and cost.
It offers portable internet connectivity and delivers high-speed, low-latency internet wherever you go. Ideal for travelers, remote workers, and digital nomads, the Starlink Mini offers reliable internet speeds over 100 Mbps. Powered by a network of low Earth orbit satellites, it ensures seamless connectivity even in the most remote locations, such as the middle of the ocean or a secluded bay.
Key Features include an all-in-one design which includes a built-in WiFi router, a simple two-step setup, an integrated router, kickstand, pipe adapter, power cable, and power supply, Wi-Fi 5 technology, and an Ethernet port for connecting to third-party routers and mesh networks. Its power consumption range is 25-40 watts and requires a clear view of the sky to connect with satellites. Naturally, a service plan is required.
A phased-array antenna automatically adjusts to maintain a strong connection, keeping you seamlessly online whether you’re sailing through choppy waters or cruising at high speeds. Starlink is designed for self-installation and can be placed just about anywhere with a clear line of sight, bringing high-speed internet within reach even for those who venture well offshore or to remote locations. starlink.com, $499
Marine Electronics
Velocitek Prism Racing Compass
The Prism, essentially a stripped-down racing compass, provides real accuracy, coupled with a massive display, in a compact package. At a mere 137 grams (4.8 ounces) it is the world’s lightest racing compass. Features include the following:
Massive digits: the Prism has sunlight-readable, high-contrast LCD screen features with 29.8 mm tall digits in a font that is optimized for readability. This means that if your boat is under 40 feet long, you will be able to mount the Prism on your mast and read it easily from anywhere in the cockpit, even if you do not have perfect vision.
Ultra-wide viewing angle: with 250 degrees of visibility the Prism LCDs can be easily read from the helm to the trapeze wire.
Flexible and secure mounting: the Prism mounts to your boat via the slide-in cradle, which can be mounted to a wide array of brackets directly to a mast using the centerline holes and the Mast Bracket Hardware Kit, or directly to a bulkhead. Velocitek even included recesses in the cradle in case you need to lash your compass in place.
Class legal: the Prism uses only magnetic input as its heading reference, has no memory, no user inputs, and performs no arithmetic functions. It’s legal in all classes that allow electronic compasses.
Battery and power: the Prism battery is rated for 40 hours of continuous use with no additional charge from full to empty. It also has a 20-second auto shut off if no motion is detected. This compass is solar recharging or can be recharged using a 3.7-volt battery charger with the correct adapter. velocitek.com, $579
Raymarine Ray63 Dual Station VHF with GPS
Ray63 is a feature-rich VHF marine radio with Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and an internal GPS receiver. Raymarine’s Ray63 radio offers intercom functionality, multi-station support for wired and wireless RayMic controllers, and comes with oversized controls and a big screen for easy operation offshore. The Ray63 also supports one wired or two wireless RayMic controllers for true multistation control and intercom capability. I like the compact, powerful feature-filled units, and I especially like the big knobs and properly sized buttons that are friendly to my clumsy, fat, old fingers.
Features include wired or wireless expansion with optional RayMic handset stations; a built-in GPS/GNSS receiver with a connection point for an optional external antenna; NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 networking for integration with onboard systems; an audio output connection for an optional passive remote speaker (A80542); and surface and trunnion mount kits. raymarine.com, $550
Cruising Life Great Expectations
By John Herlig
If you’re going cruising to find happiness , don’t go.
My adult son had agreed to crew for me as I set out on my inaugural sailing voyage some years ago, an ICW run that was to take me and my 1967 Rawson 30 cutter south to warmer climes. Early in the morning of our departure day I started Ave del Mar’s inboard Universal diesel, and as it warmed, I poured two shots of my best spirits into two small pewter glasses. I knew I had to make a ceremonial offering to Neptune to secure a smooth journey.
Neighbors from the marina came out to see us off. As they stood on the dock, I made my soon-to-become standard predeparture speech. My son and I sent Neptune’s whiskey over the stern and into the waters of Back Creek and each drained the few remaining drops out of our glasses and into our mouths. We were about to be real sailors. We were underway.
About four hours later we limped back into the marina slip with a transmission
that sounded like a can of rocks falling down a set of stairs. We were humbled and a bit frustrated but happy to have met adversity and to have dealt with it. It was a full month before the transmission was rebuilt and a departure was again on the books, this time minus the crew.
The second journey started with less ceremony. Neptune got his pre-departure offering (as always), but missing were all those marina neighbors waving and cheering and wishing me well. This was still my first departure if one considers that during the previous departure I didn’t actually depart. This was when my friend and mentor Chip gave me some of the best sailing advice I have ever received: “Wish them well, if they are there,” he said to me of the dock crowd. “Tell them you are headed for the Bahamas. Motor off around the bend and out of sight, drop the anchor, and go to bed. Leave the next day. Or the day after that. It’s hard enough without you carrying
the hopes and expectations of strangers on top of your own.”
For many of us that initial undocking for a cruising journey arrives loaded with emotional baggage. You have worked so long on the plan and have prepared so diligently for your departure. Photos of boat life have taken over your Instagram and Facebook accounts. Your coworkers know what you’re doing and are excited that you have this amazing spirit of adventure, a joie de vivre that may be missing from their own lives. Marina neighbors know you’re leaving, too, and might wish that it could be them. You’re on a high. There’s a swagger in your step as you walk down the docks. Then you leave, and the storyline frays at its edges.
I’m not suggesting that the cruising life will make you miserable or that you shouldn’t try. Quite to the contrary. But I also remember a coworker of mine when I first bought Ave del Mar who asked me,
# Bahamian sunset.
“What if you hate it?” That question blew my mind. It’s a boat, not a life sentence. I could pause, turn around, quit, sell the boat, die at sea… any one of a number of options. In the end cruising is just a transient state of being, and nothing more. It is a single tile in the mosaic of my beautifully complex life.
It isn’t other people’s expectations or fears that will impact how you and the cruising life get along—it is you and how you choose to react to bad decisions, bad luck, and bad days. My Bahamas Cruising class at Cruisers University at the Annapolis Boat Shows starts with a short speech that may border on being almost sermon-like about how easy it can be to be miserable in the Bahamas. The message is basically that if you are headed to the islands to find happiness, please don’t go. If you are miserable here, you’ll be miserable there.
Maybe you’ll be miserable that the groceries are expensive. Maybe you’ll be mad at the mosquitoes or noseeums simply for existing (that’s not hard to do), or mad at the weather for thwarting your sailing plans. Maybe you ran aground on a sandbar because your partner read the
charts wrong. Maybe the mail boat didn’t arrive, or the store doesn’t have potatoes or cheese. I could fill an entire magazine with anecdotes of cranky sailors being crushed not by adversity but by the weight of their own expectations.
So, get ahead of the curve. Expect engine problems and mosquitoes—maybe on the same day. Maybe even at the same time. Maybe your transmission will fail as mine did. Maybe the fantasy-like expecta-
tions of the people who aren’t going with you are their own to grapple with.
All the highs are out there, too, occupying the same space as the challenges. Maybe you just need to tell those folks you are headed to the Bahamas when you really plan to go around the bend and sleep off the departure-related stress for a couple of days to get your head right. If you don’t tell them, they’ll never know.
Ever Have Trouble Finding Your Copy Of
About the author: John Herlig lives aboard his 1967 Rawson cutter Ave Del Mar and teaches at Cruisers University. Find him on Substack @jherlig.
# Nassau to Norman’s Cay.
The Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show returns to the historic seaport town of Annapolis every April to showcase new and brokerage boats including catamarans, monohulls, family cruisers, daysailers, and inflatables.
While climbing aboard the great line-up of sailboats is the major draw, there is so much more to see. Guests are invited to meet with boating clubs and charter companies, shop gear and equipment, and ring in the new season with fellow sailors and marine professionals. With live entertainment and seminars, the fun lasts all day. As the show winds down, guests may visit the wide variety of restaurants, shops and bars just a few steps from the show gates.
Tickets
General Admission ~ $20
Military ~ $15 (Taxes and Fees Included) (Limited onsite box office available) Children 15 and under are free
Location
1 Dock Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
Hours
Friday, April 25: 10am - 6pm Saturday, April 26: 10am - 6pm Sunday, April 27: 10am - 5pm
Parking
Parking is available in the parking garages in downtown Annapolis. Be sure to plan ahead as parking garages downtown fill up fast.
Stay
Known as the “Sailing Capital of the World”, Annapolis’s maritime history, nautical culture, and fun atmosphere make it the perfect location for boat shows. When guests have finished exploring the floating docks and shoreside exhibit areas at the Spring Show, downtown restaurants, shops, and galleries open their doors to these sailors looking to extend their stay. Make your plans now and book accommodations. Learn more at visitannapolis.org
Explore Our Town
The Annapolis Boat Shows have always enjoyed calling Annapolis home. With beautiful brick-lined streets filled with art galleries, apparel, antique shops, and specialty boutiques, downtown Annapolis has plenty of fun for every visitor. Visit the many shops along Main Street and Maryland Ave, book a historic walking tour with Watermark, tour the U.S. Naval Academy, and enjoy a glorious sunset cruise aboard the Schooner Woodwind. Learn all about the great things to do in our hometown and what events are happening during the shows with the help of Visit Annapolis and Anne Arundel County. visitannapolis.org
Answers to FAQs
Are pets allowed on show grounds? No, animals are not allowed inside the show due to safety and health reasons unless it is a certified service animal.
Are strollers allowed on show grounds? No, strollers are not allowed inside the show due to safety issues. Please park your stroller in the designated stroller parking area.
Should my child wear a lifejacket?
Yes, we recommend all children wear life jackets for their safety.
Will the show be open if it rains? Yes, the boat show happens rain or shine.
Can I scan my ticket from my phone? Yes, you do not need to print out your ticket. All tickets may be scanned from your phone.
Are backpacks allowed in the show? Yes, backpacks and bags are allowed.
If I leave the show, am I allowed back in later? Yes, you will be able to scan your ticket again upon re-entry.
Can I bring food or drink into the show? Yes, you may bring food and drinks into the show.
Sailing Season Is Here!
Welcome to the 2025 Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show, where sailors and would-be sailors may climb aboard a fantastic line-up of sailboats and meet with representatives of sailing schools, sailing clubs, charter companies, and more. In addition to exploring the boats, here you may shop for gear and equipment, enjoy live entertainment, and attend seminars. Outside the show, we invite you to visit the wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, many of which are within easy walking distance.
New show layout.
You are sure to notice right away that this spring we’ve adjusted the show layout, moving farther into Ego Alley.
This move is to accommodate the exciting Annapolis City Dock Project, a transformative redevelopment initiative designed to address flooding, enhance public spaces, and boost economic vitality in the historic district and along the waterfront. We think you’ll love our new design.
There is no better place than the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show to ring in the sailing season. Have questions?
Flip through the pages of this guide, stop by the SpinSheet booth (located just inside the show gate), or click to annapolisspringsailboatshow.com.
Amazing New and Brokerage Sailboats
Explore dozens of boats, from racing dinghies to family cruisers and luxurious catamarans. On land and in the water, here you may shop and compare, ask questions of knowledgeable professionals, and gather all the information you need to find the perfect boat to make your sailing dreams come true.
For Racing Sailors and Aspiring Racers
Take your high-level racing (or racing events) to the next level!
The Oakcliff Celebration and Collaboration Tour brings competitive sailors of all ages and skills, racing event organizers, funders, and supporters in the Chesapeake region together for two high-energy sessions of collaboration, learning, problem identification and solving, and sharing. Saturday, 4-6 p.m. and Sunday, 9 -11 a.m. Register in advance at oakcliffsailing.org ($10 fee includes show admission).
Break into sailboat racing with confidence
Skippers (and crew), join a dynamic discussion about how to break into sailboat racing with confidence. This will be an informative and entertaining session with Pete Boland, host of the popular Sailfaster podcast. If you’ve ever been intimidated by sailboat racing, don’t miss this insider look at getting started. Friday, 4-5 p.m. Free
Become a great race crew member
Join lifelong racer and Annapolis Sailing School director Ian Morrison as he walks you through a typical sailboat race and discusses what makes a good crew member. Sunday, 1-1:45 p.m. Free
Education
First Sail Workshop
First-time sailors will learn the basics and experience the joy of sailing in a 45-minute classroom session followed by 90 minutes on the water with American Sailing Association accredited instructors provided by SailTime. Four workshops each day of the show. Register at annapolisspringsailboatshow.com. $70 fee includes show admission on the day of class and a one-year BoatU.S. membership.
Daily free seminars presented by BoatU.S.
Fifteen free seminars will be presented over the course of the three-day show. Learn about Rules of the Road, docking, weekend cruising, and more. Find the full list on page 10.
Door Prizes
When you pre-purchase your tickets online or sign up at the show, you are automatically entered to win one of the many door prizes that are generously donated by our maritime partners. Find all the amazing prizes listed on page 9.
Sailing With Kids
Ever dream of sailing away with your family? How about just an afternoon together on the water? Or maybe you are curious about youth racing. Bring the whole family for a casual panel discussion/ Q&A with parents whose kids love sailing and learn why the sport is fun and exciting for all ages. Saturday, 3-4 p.m. Free
Charters
Are you ready to take your next vacation aboard a beautiful sailboat? With multiple charter companies and tourism boards at the show, this is your chance to open up your cruising possibilities. Whether you want to charter on the Chesapeake Bay or worldwide, reserve a whole boat or a single cabin, here you can find all that you need to know to start planning your dream trip.
Relax With Sailing Friends
Sit back and relax in the No Wake Zone, an outdoor lounge area where show-goers can listen to great music by popular local musician and sailor, Shawn Owen. Guests aged 21 years and older can enjoy a tasting area to explore Maryland made spirits and wines.
Enter For A Chance To Win Great Prizes!
Everyone loves a good door prize! When you pre-purchase your tickets online or sign up at the show, you are automatically entered to win one of the many door prizes that are generously donated by our maritime partners.
878 Avalon Pad Water Hammock
The Avalon Pad inflates to a 8’ x 7’ floating hammock that is 8 inches thick, providing 56 square feet of area to lounge on any body of water. This swim platform is constructed with stable and buoyant border surrounding a mesh center that allows water to enter. One has the option to sit along the edges dry with their feet in the water or suspend freely in just a few inches of water to cool off. Our mesh center is uniquely constructed to create a sealed barrier protecting from jellyfish and other sea life, this versatile water toy is ideal for both kids and adults. This spacious pad is designed to enrich your days with friends & family at the local sand bar, lake, river or marina. An easy to inflate floating island that provides a comfortable area to relax, sunbathe, and float partially submerged to cool off on those hot summer days. Visit Further Customs in Tent A-1, 2, 3
Jetty Gift Set
This gift set includes Jetty tee, a Jetty summer woven shirt, and hat. Jetty offers an eco-minded, durable apparel that embodies the fickle conditions of northeast surf and encourages outdoor adventure despite the weather. As B-Corp Certified company, we prioritize reducing waste, creating premium products, and supporting coastal communities through our nonprofit, the Jetty Rock Foundation, which has donated millions of dollars to clean water initiatives and disaster relief efforts for over a decade. Supporting Jetty strengthens our commitment to protecting our oceans, waterways, and the communities that rely on them.
Newport Hooded Pullover Sweatshirt
Crafted from the finest hand-picked natural cotton and ring spun into exquisite yarn, our product showcases the artistry of European circle knitting and the timeless elegance of French terry fabric. Adhering to the highest European Oeko-Tex standards, each piece is meticulously assembled and finished in the USA. Available is Mariners Red, and Dark Navy. Visit JB Langley at Land 3
Weems & Plath 7×50 WAYFINDER Marine Binoculars
These sporty binoculars float, are fully waterproof, provide an incredibly sharp image, and are equipped with a range finder and illuminated compass. They are also filled with Argon anti-fog gas, are fully multi-coated, have individual eyepiece focusing, are rubber-armored to help keep them shock resistant, and come with a soft, padded black case, 2 LR44 batteries, lens covers, padded neck strap, and a lens cloth. Valued at $415.99 Visit Weems & Plath in Tent A 23-24
Two Preview Day Tickets to the Annapolis Sailboat Show
This lucky winner and a guest will enjoy the opportunity to spend the day on the docks at the Annapolis Sailboat Show on Preview Day, Thursday, October 9, 2025. Preview Day is less crowded allowing guests more time on boats and with brokers. This annual celebration of sailing features floating docks lined with sailboats from manufacturers around the world. Multihulls, monohulls, cruisers, racers, sailing dinghies and more. Show tents line the shore, stocked with the latest in nautical gear and accessories, electronics, communication equipment, sails, rigging, education, charter companies, clubs and more.
FRIDAY, APRIL 25
SEMINAR SCHEDULE
11:00-11:45am
12:00-12:45pm
1:00-1:45pm
2:00-2:45pm
Presented by
An Introduction To The Rules Of The Road
Presented by Captain Deb Marlor of Simplicity Sailing
Docking For Couples
Presented by Jeff Grossman & Jean Levine of Two Can Sail Yacht Sales & Service, Inc.
Becoming An Avid Fisherwoman On A Slow Boat
Presented by Nina Preuss
Celestial Navigation – There Is An App For That!
Presented by Michael Novey developer of EZ Sextant
3:00-4:00pm The Everglades Challenge – An Adventure On A Sailboat
Presented by Jahn Tihansky
4:00-5:00pm Racing Discussion
Preesented Pete Boland of Sail Faster
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
11:00-11:45am
12:00-12:45pm
1:00-1:45pm
2:00-2:45pm
Basic Weather For Sailors
Presented by Captain Deb Marlor of Simplicity Sailing
Cruising To Maine
Presented by Captain Cheryl Duvall
How To Begin Your Sailing Journey
Presented by Annapolis Sailing School
Line Handling & Cowboy/Cowgirl Skills
Presented by Jeff Grossman & Jean Levine of Two Can Sail Yacht Sales & Service, Inc.
3:00-4:00pm Sailing With Kids
Presented by an expert panel from SpinSheet Magazine
SUNDAY, APRIL 27
11:00-11:45am
12:00-12:45pm
1:00-1:45pm
2:00-3:45pm
Cruising Comfortably For A Weekend Or A Life
Presented by Captain Deb Marlor of Simplicity Sailing
Catamarans 101
Presented by Jeff Grossman & Jean Levine of Two Can Sail Yacht Sales & Service, Inc.
How Do You Become A (Great) Crew Member On A Race Boat?
Presented by Ian Morrison of Annapolis Sailing School
Racing Rules Questions & Answer Session
Presented by Bill Simon of Eastport Yacht Club and CBYRA
Chesapeake Area Professional Captains Associations Tent A 26 Associations, Clubs, Boating Safety Courses, Information, Non Profit Organization capca.net
Chesapeake Bristol Club Sailing Club Tent Associations, Clubs cbclub.info
S&J Yachts Tent D 6, 7, Dock A Bavaria C42, Island Packet 370 Boat Builders, Manufacturer, Dealers sjyachts.com
Sail Annapolis Dock A Catalina 425, 445, 355 Boat Builders, Manufacturer, Dealers sailannapolis.com
Sail Away Catamarans Dock A Vision 444, Seawind 1600, 1160, 1260 Boat Builders, Manufacturer, Dealers, Charters sailawaycatamarans.com
Sail Beyond Cancer Annapolis Land D 14 Non Profit Organization sailbeyondcancer.org
Sail Solomons Dock A Catalina 445 Charters sailsi.com
Sailtime Annapolis, LLC Dock A Beneteau Oceanis 37.1 Fractional Boating sailtime.com
Sand and Sun Shoes Tent A 8 Clothing, Footwear sandandsunshoes.com
SEAYa! Marine/Hullshield Tent A 41, 42 Antifouling Systems, Diving Gear, Propellers, Shafts, Related Geat, Electronics Installation, Repair seayamarine.com
Seven Seas Cruising Association Tent A 31 Associations, Clubs, Non Profit Organization ssca.org
Shanks Golf Apparel Tent B 5 Clothing, Footwear shanksgolfapparel.com
Singles on Sailboats Sailing Club Tent Associations, Clubs, Non Profit Organization singlesonsailboats.org
Six Knots Tent B 1, 2 Clothing, Footwear sixknots.com
SML Footwear Tent A 40 Clothing, Footwear sml.com
Solar Energy World Tent A 18 Batteries, Chargers, Solar Products. Environmental Protection solarenergyworld.com
Crew finder
The SpinSheet Crew Finder is a free service that is provided to match skippers looking for crew with crew looking for boats. Create your profile today to be included in the searchable listings or search the listings online.
SpinSheet Magazine Tent OA 1 Publications spinsheet.com
Star Blink USA Tent A 30 Cleaners, Polishes starblinkusa.com
Williams & Heintz Map Corp. Tent C 6 Art, Photography, Nautical Charts, Navigation whchartbook.com
Windcraft Multihulls Dock A Dragonly 28 Boat Buiders, Manufacturer, Dealers dragonfly.dk
Yacht Brokers of Annapolis Land A 4 Brokerage yachtbrokersofannapolis.com
Yachtmann.com
Dock A Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 Boat Buiders, Manufacturer, Dealers yachtmann.com
ZeaFarer, Inc. Dock A Sunreef 80eco Boat Maintenance, Repair, Insurance, Documentation, Accommodations, Destinations, Vacations Zeafarer.com
Over 80’
Sunreef 80eco
ZeaFarer, Inc.
50’-54’
Hylas 54
Dock A
Bay Harbor Brokerage Dock A
Hylas 54
David Walters Yachts Dock A
Kufner 54
Kufner Yachts USA Dock A
Dufour 530
Waypoints Yacht Charters Dock A
Seawind 1600
Sail Away Catamarans Dock A
45’-49’
Passport 47
Passport Yachts
Fountaine Pajot Saona 47
Yachtmann.com
Hylas 46
David Walters Yachts
Fountaine Pajot Tanna 47
Dock A
Dock A
Dock A
ACY Yachts Dock A
Lagoon 43
Clarks Landing Yacht Sales Dock A
Dufour 44
ACY Yachts Dock A
Beneteau 1st 44
Clarks Landing Yacht Sales Dock A
Beneteau Oceanis
Clarks Landing Yacht Sales Dock A
Excess 14
Crusader Yacht Sales
Catalina 445
Sail Solomons
Catalina 445
G. Winters Sailing Center
Dock A
Dock A
Dock A
40’-44’
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 440
Crusader Yacht Sales
Vision 444
Sail Away Catamarans
Catalina 425
G. Winters Sailing Center
Bavaria C42
S&J Yachts
Dufour 41
ACY Yachts
Fountaine Pajot Atrea 42
ACY Yachts
Seawind 1260
Sail Away Catamarans
35’-39’
Alubat 370 Alubat America
VIKO S35 The Sailing Academy
Jeanneau 380 G. Winters Sailing Center
Island Packet 370
S&J Yachts
Seawind 1160
Sail Away Catamarans
Tartan 365 Crusader Yacht Sales
Beneteau Oceanis 37.1 Sailtime Annapolis, LLC
Hunter 356 Annapolis Sailyard
Dock A
Dock A
Dock A
Dock A
Dock A
Dock A
Dock A
30’-34’
Jeanneau 349 G. Winters Sailing Center
25’-29’
Dragonly 28 Windcraft Multihulls
Maxus 26 Performance Yacht Sales
20’-22’
Beneteau First 22 Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating
Dock A
Dock A
A
A
A
A
Under 15’
A-14.6 A -14
Sail, Inc.
OFFSHORE SERIES PART 2: Tips From First-Time Offshore Sailors
By Captain Cheryl Duvall, in collaboration with Captains Suzanne and Joe Rexing
For some of us, sailing offshore is a realistic goal. For others, it’s a wild but hopefully attainable dream. We take classes, follow favorites on social media, read cruising memoirs, and hire private coaches. Each step moves us closer, helping to define the boat we want and the skills we need to venture away from sight of land.
Along the way, we meet other sailors who share similar ambitions. That’s what happened in 2014 when fate docked my boat next to Suzanne and Joe Rexing on Patience. I was impressed that they lived six months of the year on their Passport
456, despite their home being a few minutes away. They had committed to an offshore dream, and even if present circumstances didn’t allow them to sail beyond the Chesapeake, they were going to experience as much of their future life as they could.
Fast forward 10 years to June 2024 when Suzanne and Joe began their offshore adventure. They spent last summer exploring New England and are currently living the dream in the Bahamas. They will return to the Chesapeake for a few weeks this spring before heading north again.
With a first year of distant cruising under their belts and
several more years of preparation for their journey, I asked them to share some tips as first-time offshore sailors.
Boat tips:
1
Select a boat that meets your offshore goals and spend time learning how your boat works. We spent many years living and cruising on Patience. We knew she was a sturdy bluewater boat and comfortable for living aboard.
2
Build a reference library of equipment manuals, standard operating procedures, lists of spares, etc. as if strangers were going to sail your boat. We initially thought this was overkill, but it helps us to stay organized and to analyze “the why and the what.”
# Andy and Lisa of Kinetic Sailing (on each end) with Suzanne and Joe (middle).
# Underway and adjusting sails. Photo by Lisa Mason
Know how to troubleshoot and fix things. We both invested time in hands-on training that has been prudent as we push farther away from homebase. Our training included servicing diesel engines and 12 V electrical systems, as well as hands-on coaching to manage a Victron LiFePo4 system, watermaker, navigation instruments, and related navigational and weather applications.
Get professional assessments of all systems. We collaborated with a set of professional marine systems technicians, asking them to help us evaluate, upgrade, and replace missioncritical systems. We did as much of the grunt work as possible. We worked alongside experts for the comprehensive replacement of electric, navigation, and communication systems; HVAC, plumbing, and desalination system replacements; new standing and running rigging; steering system
overhaul; and refurbishing of deck and hull surfaces. We finished with sea trials and testing of these systems in multiple conditions.
Human tips:
Refresh your textbook training
1 2
We reinvested in formalized training to refresh our knowledge and are now ASA alumni. It was amazing how much we had forgotten since our introduction to sailing over 30 years ago. Courses beyond our refreshers included:
• Marina Learning Systems online OUPV Captains License. The license was not essential for going offshore, but it is a structured singlesource course to review everything we felt we might need to know including Rules of the Road and International Maritime Regulations.
• Offshore Medical Emergency Training. We took an immersive two-day emergency medicine course sponsored by Maritime Medical Guides, which was held on the water aboard a Farr 40.
• US Sailing Safety at Sea. We participated in a multi-day search and rescue safety at sea training at the USNA. The in-pool PFD and life raft deployment experiences were impressive and sobering.
• Fire Protection. We learned fire prevention and firefighting techniques through a seminar hosted by The Maryland School of Sailing and Seamanship.
Avoid taking your boat on its first offshore experience alone. We solicited the professional services of Lisa and Andy of Kinetic Sailing to join us aboard Patience for our first offshore voyage. We collaborated with them to design our multiday passage of 480 nm. Their
Annapolis To Bermuda
detailed instruction included best practices for departure planning, weather routing, log keeping, watch schedules, and much more. For us, the offshore passage with Lisa and Andy resulted in an invaluable, positive, and fun first-time event.
Understand weather and its implications for offshore sailing. We took several webinars and classes
specific to offshore sailing and weather routing. One of the best was a fourday intensive Marine Weather course (ASA 119) with Lisa at Kinetic Sailing. We subscribe to Chris Parker’s Maritime Weather Center Service for daily weather webcasts. Coupled with numerous weather applications, we strive to have a detailed understanding of forecasted conditions. We are still
4
learning. With this preparation we had a smooth first time Gulf Stream crossing from Lake Worth Inlet to the Little Bahama Banks. Don’t set schedules or let destinations drive decisions. We remind ourselves that we can always come back to a place which relieves the pressure to see everything. Weather drives our journey rather than a schedule. We
Wire Rigging Reimagined
Introducing L S Photon, a revolutionary fiber rigging system designed to easily replace wire rigging. Incredibly strong, durable, and ultra light, it offers all the high performance benefits of fiber rigging while using common wire fittings.
• Up to 85% Lighter than Wire Rigging
• Fully UV and Chafe Resistant
• Corrosion Free
• No Risk of Fatigue - Lasts in Excess of 10 Years
• Uses Exclusive LS Photon Terminal Connections
• Works with Continuous or Discontinuous Rigging Configurations
• Specifically Engineered to Meet Your Boat’s Loads
# On the way to clear customs (see Q flag) in Bahamas January 2025. Photo by Suzanne Rexing
Offshore Series presented by
push ourselves when we feel we can go further, and we heed the weather when we need to stay put. This reconnaissance year will help us enjoy cruising these waters again with friends and family aboard.
Data collection is essential. We forget things, and often! We learned that we needed to hone our data collection skills. Documenting fuel levels, water usage, engine oil, state of charge, barometric readings, and provisions are now daily routines. Having data to make informed decisions is key.
Offshore sailing and liveaboard life is a job.
The Rexings contend that sailing offshore and living aboard is a job. They feel fortunate that they both enjoy the work. Destination planning consumes inordinate amounts of time as they factor tides, currents, weather, fuel, and wind. “It can take us as many hours to plan a passage as it does to sail the passage.” They cross-train and equally share common projects that include tending the watermaker,
Vchecking and fixing leaks, changing filters, and sewing repairs. A weekly cleaning of sumps, filters, and pumps, aka Maintenance Mondays, is now a routine event that doesn’t bring stress.
Their final tip: “As you might approach any new job, have a mindset to learn. So far, this is proving to be the best job we’ve ever had. We are not experts. There are others far more experienced. We are lucky to meet them and continue to learn from them as we cruise.”
About the authors: Captain Cheryl Duvall lives in Annapolis where she works for Watermark and sails her Gozzard 44 Belle Bateau. Captains Suzanne and Joe Rexing are “living the dream” with a meandering mentality aboard their Passport 456 Patience, presently sailing an East Coast to Bahamas journey.
REXINGS’ RECOMMENDED RESOURCES:
• Andy and Lisa of Kinetic Sailing, lisa@kineticsail.com
• Chris Parker and Marine Weather Center Services, mwxc.com
• US Sailing Safety at Sea Courses, ussailing.org
• Maritime Medical Guides, maritimemedicalguides.org
• Back Country Medical Guides, backcountrymedicalguides.org
• Long Beach Maritime Institute, maritimeinstitute.com
Liferaft, Sales & Services
Pick-up & delivery available
Arrange to view your liferaft repack
All marine safety equipmentEPIRBs, flares, extinguishers, & apparel
Celebrating a century of service to the maritime community in Baltimore, Annapolis, DelMarVa, Norfolk, Philadelphia, the Jersey Shore, and Wilmington, NC
Vane Brothers Marine Safety & Services Full Service Liferaft Inspection Stations
2100 Frankfurst Ave., Baltimore, Maryland 21226
Phone: 410.631.5167 • Fax: 410.631.5118 Portsmouth, Virginia • Phone: 800.440.VANE
www.vanebrothers.com • sales@vanebrothers.com
Navigate in open waters without a GPS. Use your phone's camera or sextant for sightings to find your latitude and longitude. Builtin almanac and plotting tools.
Offshore Rigging Specialists
Prepping Your Sailboat for a Sale
By Cindy Wallach
It was daunting to be anchored on our cruising catamaran with everything we own in the whole world inside and needing it to sell. Even if you don’t live aboard, when it’s time to say goodbye to your boat and create the listing, it can be more work than you think.
As long time liveaboards and cruisers, it took us a solid month to get it done.
Photographs
I would argue that this is the single most important thing needed to sell a boat. It
makes me cringe to look at listings and see rumpled beds, piles of shoes, personal belongings everywhere, and even dirty heads. Ick.
Every time we had to stage and photograph a section of the boat, we emptied that section completely. We emptied it of 20 years of life well lived. Sweating in the Caribbean heat, I went back and forth and back and forth with piles of stuff. Then, we had to scrub, paint, touch up, and stage. Things we lived with day to day now stood out like a neon sign. I’m dirty! My hinge is loose! Varnish me! Your throw pillows are tacky!
So, we did the work. We cleaned and cleared, and we took the time to make the space just right. I held my breath for the perfect photos. Of course, emptying a cabin meant piling all of the contents of that cabin into another part of the boat. Precarious piles
of stuff were behind me while a pristine, staged section of the boat opened in front of me for photographs.
Time to purge
Nobody wants to buy a boat with all of your stuff on it. Spare parts? Yes. Knick knacks, old books, and your chipped dishes? No.
Before we put our life back into the cabin we had just staged for photos, we had to sort the stuff we pulled out. Why do we still have this? This thing is full of mildew. Our kids outgrew these toys or clothes years ago.
As we sorted, new piles began to form. There was a pile for donation. There was another pile of things to pass along to other boaters. There was the pile for the dump. I said a mea culpa to the environment as we took five to seven huge bags a day to the dumpsters in Sint Maarten. I eased my guilt by telling myself we’ve been living so gently on the planet the last 26 years, so a little extra garbage was okay.
We decided to take it a step further by putting in brand new heads and plumbing the day we moved off the boat to give the next owners a fresh start.
Catalog your boat
Now it’s time to put the stuff that made the cut back in the newly detailed part of the boat. This is the time to also start your lists. Depending on what your plans are after the sale of your boat, you have to decide what stays with the boat and what moves off with you when you depart the boat for the last time. The items that stay need to
# Gathering up personal stuff.
# Showcase the lifestyle in photos..
# Too much personal stuff.
# You’re not just selling a boat; you’re selling a lifestyle.
# Personal stuff cleared away.
get cataloged for the listing specs. Those fans over your bunk: what brand are they? That storage locker: what are the interior dimensions? That new mattress you splurged on last year: how thick is it and what is it made out of?
Even if all of these details do not make it into your specs, believe me, some prospective buyer will come along and ask for the most random detail. It’s best to have an answer rather than have them possibly lose interest.
While you catalog and sort, don’t forget your boat papers. Find those receipts, owner’s manuals, and warranties. If you don’t already have them organized, put them into a binder of some sort for the next owner. It’s a good idea to scan each one and keep a copy for yourself. If your boat will sit somewhere for sale and you don’t live nearby, you will kick yourself when your broker or a prospective buyer asks for information in the binder, and you don’t have a digital copy on hand.
Eliminate quirks
If you sail your boat often, you will have some little quirky jury rig somewhere on your boat. Maybe your button latch has a Lego on it because the button fell off long ago? Maybe you let your teenager put stickers all over his door, and now it’s full of teen angst and sass. Maybe these examples are too personal?
This is the time to take the personal touches out of the boat, even if it means days of scraping sticker residue from a wood door and sanding and varnishing it back to life. Adios Lego. We finally special ordered that button latch and put it back on. And while my family loved the psychedelic rainbow wheel cover, we removed it and made one that matched the canvas.
Details matter
Show as much detail as possible, not only to highlight what’s special about your boat, but to show a potential buyer that you have nothing to hide. Photograph the engine, show the inside of the fridge, get some close-up beauty shots of your windlass, winches, anchor, and running rigging. Does your boat have special lighting? Take some night photos to show that off. Don’t forget out-of-the-water photos, too. If you haul her for sale or do one last bottom job before leaving the boat, get pics of the freshly painted bottom, her rudder, propellers, and the shape of the hull.
Cruisers are part of a happy, salty cult, so you should look for opportunities to take photos that reflect that. If you have a drone, get those shots from above while at anchor or underway. If you cruise somewhere gorgeous, take the dinghy and circle the boat from afar to show her anchored in that beautiful spot. If you’re trimmed perfectly headed downwind, snap some pics of that spinnaker pulling you along.
You’re not just selling a boat; you’re selling a lifestyle and a dream. One word of warning though, doing all of these things just may make you think twice about selling your boat.
About the Author: For three years, Annapolis sailor Cindy Wallach cruised the Caribbean with her family aboard their St. Francis 44 MK II catamaran Majestic, which is now for sale through multihullcompany.com.
A BVI Charter Won in an Auction… for the Win!
What do you do when you bid on a British Virgin Islands (BVI) charter in a silent auction for the Magenta Project and win it? Go on a terrific sailing vacation with friends, of course! Here’s what Madde Vachon and her crew of Chesapeake racing sailors had to say about their seven-day charter aboard a 41-foot Sunsail catamaran out of Road Town, Tortola, BVI, in February 2024:
Did your charter include a captain, cook, or other crew?
Madde: Technically, yes, but none were paid—most of us were licensed captains!
Who was onboard for the vacation?
Jane Millman, Peter Gibbons-Neff, Madde Vachon, Xan Schlegel, Tyler Waldron, Kyle Mclaughlin, Alli Gutenkunst, and AJ.
Could you summarize where you went and/or favorite anchorages?
Since some of the folks onboard were
to hit all the tourist spots: Willy T’s and snorkeling at the Indians, The Baths, Bitter End Yacht Club (Rum Runner!), Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and back to the base.
Was the sailing exciting?
We definitely still had some of the Christmas winds. With a bunch of competitive sailors aboard, there were a lot of “trim this” and “ease that an inch” to make our goat of a catamaran slog as quickly as possible... sometimes even upwind! The seas were mostly calm. Our most difficult passage was Anegada to Jost Van Dyke, but it was downwind, so
Most of the crew took the four- to fivehour passage to catch up on some zzz’s.
Tell me about your excursions… diving, exploring, other?
We did some snorkeling at the caves near Willy T’s, swam into the Baths, and did the big loop through the huge boulders. We got lobster dinners our first night on Anegada and rented a Moke and two mopeds the next morning to tour the island for a full day, hitting beach bars, checking out The Settlement, and snorkeling inside the reef along Loblolly Bay.
Charter Notes
Jost we visited the Soggy Dollar and relaxed on the beach before dinghying back over to Foxy’s for dinner and dancing.
Three highlights on sea or land?
We had stellar weather for our trip which was fortunate. Sometimes conditions can be a little hit or miss in late February, so we all packed for potentially chilly and damp days. We lucked out. For those of us returning posthurricanes (Irma and Maria) it was pretty emotional seeing the destruction but also encouraging to see what has been rebuilt. There are significantly fewer goats, cows, and donkeys roaming the island, but they are slowly returning. Life will find a way. A big highlight of our trip was the final day when we were sailing back to the base. We stopped in the Francis Drake channel, shut the boat down, and went swimming in the open water.
TCharter Directory
hese sailboat charter companies specialize in sailing destinations such as the Chesapeake Bay, Northeast United States, Northwest United States, South America, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and South Pacific. Contact them and book your charter dream vacation today!
Did anything surprise you about the trip?
How quickly the time flies by!
Would you do anything differently if you could do it over?
We were constrained by the charter limits of seven days for this charter, but I always recommend folks to do 10 days. It takes a full day to travel in and get the boat packed and usually takes a full day to check out and get back to the airport. I would recommend flying direct into Beef Island (you can do that now); although flying into STT via Puerto Rico is a fun way to go, too—you get to take the ferry from Charlotte Amalie to Road Town. From there you can walk to the Moorings charter base if the weather is good. When we go back, we intend to hit some lessertrodden tourist places, do more hiking and snorkeling, and go to Trellis Bay for a full moon party!
Learn About Local Sailing Clubs at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show!
If you’d like to learn more about Chesapeake-based sailing clubs, be sure to stop by the Sailing Clubs Tent (Land Space C 4-5) at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show April 25-27. Local clubs will have members and literature inside the booth to answer all your questions. These clubs welcome new members, and to join some of the clubs all you need is an interest in sailing—you don’t even need to know how to sail or own a boat!
Attention Chesapeake Bay sailing clubs: share your club news and events in SpinSheet’s Club Notes section by sending a 350-word write-up and one or more clear photos of smiling faces or pretty boats to beth@spinsheet.com. Find Club Notes section sponsor, YaZu Yachting, at yazuyachting.com and on Facebook.
Spring Fling!
By Susan Theuns
Here we go! The Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake (CBCC) Get R Done season starter saw some hardy sailors rafting up and anchoring in Broad Creek. It’s always nice to get the kinks out with extra hands nearby in case something malfunctions. Walt Parsons did a great job as event chair and port captain, plus he singlehanded across the Bay to do it! While some were here in the Bay area getting ready for the sailing season, member Deb Kuba is just back from a sailing adventure in New Zealand. She always has some interesting tales to tell about her world travel crewing escapades.
This month we will have a land-and-sea event, accessible for those who do not yet have their boats in ship-shape for sailing, those who do, and for drive-alongs. Donna Pike and Wayne Steeves will co-chair a restaurant dinner in Annapolis during the US Naval Academy’s Commissioning Week, which is full of activities and includes rehearsals and an air show by the Blue Angels. There will be something for
everyone, so take a slip at the marina by the restaurant for a night or two to enjoy happy hour, dinner, and the special events with us. Members are encouraged to reach out to each other for pre-and-post sailing activities. Please sign up online.
Our Annual Spring Cruise, co-captained Jay Ankers and Sean Hollis, begins June 1. This is a 10-day cruise starting from the Eastern Shore, midBay, heading south, with a return to the Annapolis area. Members can participate for a few days, a single port, or the entire cruise. Details will be emailed and posted on the CBCC Facebook page (click on the events tab) for details and to sign up.
CBCC is a no-fee club where like-minded people with a shared love of the water participate as their schedule and preferences allow. If
you are interested in joining a boating club that is tailored to you, please send a brief description of your experience, contact information, and expectations to CompassBoatingClub@yahoo.com. We look forward to hearing from you and joining in on all the fun!
# Club members burn their socks.
Strong Leadership Celebrated
In March, America’s Boating Club Wilmington (ABCW) members celebrated the club’s 85th Change of Watch, during which the new 2025 commander, bridge officers, and executive committee leadership were inducted by John O’Reilly, Mid Atlantic regional education officer. The celebration was held during brunch at The Country House in Wilmington, DE. Each year we recognize the prior leadership’s contributions while inducting the new bridge command. Formerly known and titled as part of the United States Power Squadrons, the 87-year-old Wilmington club is one of more than 300 local clubs nationwide with a combined membership of 20,000. Wilmington’s club has 95
members with 38 sailboats and powerboats. Our members enjoy educational and monthly social activities including weekend raftups and well-planned weeklong Chesapeake Bay cruises.
ABCW looks forward to even more camaraderie during this year’s interesting and fun activities. To learn more about ABCW educational and social opportunities, visit us at abc-wilmington.com or contact us at wspsboaters@gmail.com
# 2025 Change of Watch
Splash Day at the Pentagon Sailing Club
By Julie Day
The first of three “splash weekends” at the Pentagon Sailing Club (PSC) began on Saturday, March 29. A group of approximately 15 volunteers gathered at JBAB’s Capital Cove Marina to receive their work orders from river commodore, John Spahn.
| Deltaville, VA
Based on his past experience, John had signed up a specific number of volunteers on each of the three days to avoid “…volunteer groups of over 40 people, when there are so many volunteers it becomes very hard to keep everyone busy and engaged.” The work crews, each with a team leader, were assigned specific tasks. In keeping with PSC’s mission of training sailors, the volunteers included novices as well as experienced sailors. One individual who had just become a PSC member confessed that he barely knew the parts of a sailboat, but he enthusiastically tackled the task of rigging an outhaul line through a boom.
At the end of the 2024 season, after sailing a combined 360 sailing sorties, all five of the club’s tired 22-foot Catalina Capris were put on the hard at Capital Cove Marina. On the first splash weekend this spring, two boats, Raptor and Osprey, were scheduled to be put back in the water. Not only were the crews responsible for returning all equipment (sails, booms, fenders, cushions, radios, horns, and other loose items) to the boats and rigging sails and booms, but winches had to be greased, frayed wires replaced and tensioned, lifelines and stanchions checked, hulls and decks power washed, and new registration stickers attached. In addition, new solar powered navigation lights were installed on each boat and colors standardized for four of the five boats.
John’s goal is to designate a work crew responsible for each of the five sailboats throughout the sailing season. Those crews will ensure that “their boat” is maintained and repaired, if need be, for the racing season, the Women on Water program, social sails, and for rentals.
In keeping with PSC’s recognition of the work of the volunteers and after all five boats are in the water, a PSC Spring Splash Party will be held at Murphy’s Irish Pub in Alexandria. It is sure to be a gala occasion! For further information contact pentagonsailing.org or find us at facebook.com/pentagonsailingclub
Chesapeake Bay SSCA GAM
Come by car or boat to hear from cruising services leaders and wideranging cruisers at the 2025 Seven Seas Cruising Association (SSCA) Chesapeake Bay GAM, September 26-28 at the Maryland Yacht Club in Pasadena, MD.
There will be presentations, hands-on sessions, social events, and more. New this year will be an option for Safety for Cruising Couples. The GAM is open to SSCA members and non-members. Registration will be open July 1.
The GAM keynote speaker will be Nigel Calder, wizard of boat mechanics and electrics, and author of the essential “Boatowner’s Mechanical and Electrical Manual, the Guide to Fixing Everything on Your Boat.” Other speakers include marine weather expert Chris Parker, boat broker Curtis Stokes, and representatives (and some principals) of Aquamaps, PredictWind, and Landfall Navigation among others.
The Chesapeake Bay GAM is the biggest event of the SSCA calendar. Held each year before the fall Annapolis Sailboat Show, the GAM has become a remarkable opportunity to listen to and meet leaders of the boating services industry. GAM with cruisers from circumnavigators to those with long seasons in the Bahamas and Caribbean and those who gunkhole the US East Coast. The GAM program runs from Friday evening through Sunday midday. For 2025, the GAM will include options on Friday for the Safety for Cruising Couples training program from Cruising Club of America (nearly full day) and the
American Heart Association CPR/AED/ First Aid certificate course in the afternoon. There will be a special focus on opportunities for groups to gather casually to exchange experience about areas of special interest including the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, the Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, and Panama.
Find details and registration at ssca. org/2025ChesapeakeGAM.
# New and experienced cruisers are welcome!
# Volunteers raise Raptor’s mast.
hesapeake Bristol Club (CBC) will kick off its 2025 season with an opening lunch and meeting on Saturday, May 10 at noon at the Providence Club House in Annapolis off of Mill Creek. Prospective members are welcome and invited to join us.
Our summer sailing season includes a Wye Island Memorial Day weekend inter-club rendezvous, a June raftup on the Rhode River, a weekend in St. Michaels to watch the log canoe races, and more.
CBC is open to all sailboat owners. Individuals, couples, and families with children and pets are always welcome. For more information and to RSVP for the opening luncheon, contact our membership director, Rebecca Burka via our website at cbclub.info/joining
Quality Cruising Yachts | Deltaville, VA
Ready, Set, Sail!
By Anne Knab
It seems like yesterday some Back Creek Yacht Club (BCYC) members were headed south for the winter, and now we’re following their progress back to the Chesapeake via the tracking sites they provided on social media.
It might be living vicariously for some of us, as we’re just beginning to get our boats in the water, but it’s an example of the intangibles of yacht club membership. BCYC is a virtual club (no physical structures to maintain, so lower dues) equally split between sailors and powerboaters.
Commodore Chuck Kahle, who with his wife Ann Fiduccia sails Blue Heaven, a 38.5-foot Sabre, first buddy boated down the ICW with club members Gail and Bob Higginbotham. Never mind that the Higginbothams are powerboaters, piloting Friendship, a Krogan 42, because the distinction has never meant much among the BCYC membership, where it’s all about the people (and of course boating!). According to Chuck, it helps a lot to laugh when the inevitable challenge happens because the laughter happens with fellow boaters who all have a story to share.
Much of this learning and sharing takes place during our year-round events both on and off the water, with May being a particularly busy month for us. We’ll “roar” into the boating season with our Gatsby-themed Spring Soiree on May 10, and head right into our season opening party the following weekend, during which we’ll spend an informal afternoon discussing the season and specifically the summer cruise. Consider joining us at this low-key gathering if you’d like to meet some members and see what we’re all about. Or, join us for one of our monthly happy hours, held the second Wednesday of every month.
Finally, our summer cruise kicks off on May 30 at Eagle’s Cove Marina off the Magothy. The fleet will head north to Osprey Point Marina on Swan Creek for two nights before turning south to stop at the Bay Bridge Marina and on to St. Michaels. We will end our week at Chesapeake Yacht Club on June 7. Learn more at backcreekyc.org.
IHelping Sailors Attain International SLC Certification
f you’re looking to bareboat charter in the Mediterranean, Peninsula Sailors, a local NauticEd partner, can help you attain your International Sailing License and Credentials (SLC).
Using online training along with onthe-water practice and testing, many of our current members are now working toward gaining their SLC certifications in preparation for our next charter in Greece. Two of our members completed their SLC certification this past year and one went on to charter a catamaran in Grenada this past February. You can read his story in last month’s SpinSheet (A Playground for the Aqua-inclined in Grenada).
Our spring is always busy with preparing our boats for the sailing season. We are hauling out all four of our cruisers for bottom washing, adding new zincs, and performing bottom inspections this month. We have been constantly improving, re-
pairing, and performing maintenance over the winter, and are anxious to get sailing again as the season approaches.
Our volunteers do all the work themselves, so it’s a great place to learn boat maintenance skills and techniques involving electrical systems, plumbing, fiberglass repair, and teak and engine work. If you want to learn how to fix stuff on a boat, we can show you all about that. We also offer continuing education during the winter months. In March we hosted seminars on safety and diesel engines.
If you’re not so inclined to get your hands dirty, that’s ok too. A lot of our volunteers help in other areas, such as organizing our many social events. We keep our membership fees at a reasonable rate thanks to our members’ volunteer efforts.
Peninsula Sailors welcomes new members of all skill levels to come sail with us and become part of our sailing community in Baltimore. We really do “Sail and Learn Together” as our motto says. We have a nice pavilion at our marina that makes for an enjoyable space to have our barbeques and picnic events once a month. For more information check us out at sailbp.com or drop by Port Covington Marina at the newly developed Baltimore Peninsula for a visit.
# Peninsula Sailors get the fleet ready for spring.
# Blue Heaven, owned by Chuck Kahle and Ann Fiduccia, on the East River.
Ready for Spring and Sailing Season
The Hunter Sailing Association Station-1(HSA-1) held our annual sock burning and potluck lunch at Herrington Harbour North in Tracey’s Landing, MD, on April 5. We were thankful that the weather was finally dry, and although it was still blustery at times, we welcomed spring. Commodore Celeste Streger (Blue Heron) provided a brief comment about the tradition of sock burning. We completed the tradition by burning our socks over an open fire. We had seven boats represented; all came by land.
Our next get-together is during the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show April 25-27. We have a club dinner planned for Saturday, April 26. Several boats will be sailing to Annapolis for their first sail of the season. Please visit the Sailing Clubs Booth at the show to meet us in person and learn more about membership and the details of our plans for the year.
If you have a Hunter in the mid-Chesapeake Bay and are not a member, please check out our club at hsa1.org or email commodore@hsa1. org to learn more about the benefits of
membership, which includes access to all club cruises and events and a direct connection to a network of Chesapeake Bay Hunter owners. We hope you will join us!
# Goodbye socks, hello spring!
Quality Cruising Yachts | Deltaville, VA
Symposium Success, DelMarVa Circumnavigation on the Horizon
On April 5 the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club (CBTSC) held its annual Spring Symposium at the Eastport Yacht Club. It was well attended, as usual, with an excellent lineup of speakers.
Mike Titgemeyer of Crusader Yachts brought us up to speed on Tartan’s newest boat, the 345. Mike has sponsored this
event for many years, and we appreciate it. Author Tom Horton shared his experiences living on Smith Island with his family. Kate Livie, a professional Chesapeake educator, writer, and historian, gave a lively presentation with a history of Chesapeake lighthouses.
Matthew Cappucci, meteorologist for the Washington Post Weather Gang,
Jeanneau Sailboat Owners
By Nancie Merritt
The annual planning meeting of the Jeanneau Sailboat Owners (JSO) took place on Saturday, March 15 at Annapolis Crusader Yachts, hosted by Tia and Mike Titgemeyer of Crusader Yachts. Tia and members supplied a small feast of goodies and beverages to share while interacting with fellow sailors over the coming season of sailing.
Paul Novack, who moderated the meeting, surprised everyone with his resignation as informal head of JSO. Our thanks to Paul for his steady and reliable leadership over the past few years. Mary Jane Church (Gypsy), and Trace Anderman, (Salty Rose), will fill the open slot as co-leaders.
After members took turns introducing themselves, Paul reminded members how to use the JSO group call number on VHF to contact other JSO members while out on the water. It’s an excellent way to meet up with fellow sailors for an impromptu
shared insights behind the science of predicting the weather and what to expect out on the water. Matt Baldwin from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, discussed the successes and challenges of the Maryland Abandoned Boat Program. Trevor Harney, owner of Harney Yacht Rigging, discussed rigging and common failures that can occur while under sail. Michael Mininsohn, our club’s vice commodore, shared his fantastic photographs of birds, wildlife, and scenic areas on the Bay.
This month we look forward to our Wye River Multi-Club Rendezvous, and in June we have planned a DelMarVa circumnavigation (open to any boat), a Summer Sailstice Raftup on Maynadier Creek, and perhaps a Popup Cruise.
New Tartan owners, don’t be bashful! Get to know us at cbtsc.org. Our raftups are even better than the symposium! See you there.
raftup, even though the notification call sounds alarmingly like a danger warning.
The main program was a presentation by Bill Conner and Vicki Saporta from Sail Beyond Cancer Annapolis, coordinated by JSO members Bill and Tammy Folkerts. This charitable organization arranges threehour sailing adventures for cancer patients as a respite from the constant trauma and treatment for cancer. Up to five family members or friends may join. For more information or to volunteer as captain or crew, contact sbcannapolis.org
Tia Titgemeyer will host the Biennial Jeanneau Sailboat Owner’s Annapolis Rendezvous, titled Camp Jeanneau at Port Annapolis Marina, on June 6-8. The theme
is ‘summer camp’ and all that concept brings to mind. It promises to be a lively, fun weekend.
Members who are interested in arranging a group activity should contact Mary Jane. Members who would like to host a monthly meetup may simply publish the event on the group calendar; create an entry and notify the group.
If you are new to JSO or a new Jeanneau sailboat owner and would like to join us, please contact Mary Jane Church, brunetteisbettermjc@gmail.com. We welcome new members! We are a loosely formed group of Jeanneau owners who enjoy boating and socializing together. Find us at groups.io/g/JSOChesapeakeBay
Lighting up the Night at Annual Sock Burning Party
By Betty Caffo
Sailors at the Havre de Grace Yacht Club (HDGYC) have welcomed in spring every year since 2013 (with a Covid pause in 2020). Sock burning around a firepit is of course the main event. The tradition is to have an easily planned party, with sailors, friends, and families asked to bring some sort of food to share. Without an organized menu, we always run the risk of 25 batches of brownies. At this year’s sock burning, only two plates of brownies showed up. But everyone enjoyed delicious offerings and plenty of other tasty treats.
Oh, and of course sailors brought some old socks or were willing to take theirs off to throw into the flames. The fire was blazing, and the beer was cold. Sailors who hadn’t seen one another since November had lots of stories, and spirits were high because warm weather is on the way after a chilly winter.
The other “hot” party highlight is our now-annual flare training. The HDGYC is located on a lawn overlooking the mouth of the Susquehanna River, so it’s a perfect place, with local fire company approval, to have basic training on how to set off safety flares and flare guns. As a previous commodore once said, “You don’t want the first time you use a flare to be when you really need it.” Because sailors usually have expired safety flares lying around, everyone is encouraged to bring them to the party. They can safely get rid of their old ones, see the need for new ones, and have some fun deploying them across the water! One sailor who has owned a boat for more than 20 years said that he had never used one before.
All our racers are officially amped up for the 2025 season, and they will be better prepared for boat emergencies. By the way, the old flares all worked, but some of the guns shot duds. hdgyc.org
# Safety flares and flare gun training.
Spring Racing Delight!
Depending on where you live on the Chesapeake, sometime between early April and early May, your club launches its weeknight racing series. In Baltimore, the big evening is Tuesday. In Hampton, St. Michaels, Round Bay, and on the Rappahannock, West, and Magothy Rivers, Wednesday is the busy night on the water. In Annapolis, you’ll find an active weeknight racing scene on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays!
Racing sailors love the mid-week competition for myriad reasons. Weeknight races break the work week up nicely and tend to lower your blood pressure. They’re known to be less competitive than weekend regattas; hence the nickname “beer can races.” But that doesn’t mean that some sailors don’t take them seriously; some use these races as training ground for new crew members and/ or for the team to try and perfect new maneuvers such as starts, mark-roundings, and takedowns.
At the race’s end you witness summer sunsets. Most importantly, you spend a few quality hours on the water with family and friends.
If you’re new to the weeknight racing scene on the Chesapeake, register for our free crew finder at spinsheet.com/crew-finder. Once you get an invitation to go out, ask the skipper what you can bring. It’s usually safe to bring nonmarking shoes, a weather-appropriate jacket, sailing gloves, a baseball cap (with a hat strap), a full water bottle, snacks, a six-pack of beer (cans, not bottles), a good attitude, and a willingness to learn.
To see weekly scores for weeknight and weekend races on the Chesapeake, sign up for our weekly SpinSheet Racing Results Presented by Mount Gay Rum by signing up for our emails at spinsheet.com or updating your email preferences to receive “weekly racing emails.”
# Photos by Will Keyworth
TASTE THE GOOD LIFE
Chesapeake Sailors Succeed at Charleston Race Week
More than 150 racing teams descended upon the lovely town of Charleston, SC, April 10-14 for Charleston Race Week at Patriots Point (CRW). This blue-sky event concluded with two races on Sunday with winners crowned in 18 classes. It was an actionpacked regatta with the three circles located on Charleston Harbor completing between seven and 10 races. Several Chesapeake sailors finished strong in the event.
Relative Obscurity topped the J/70 class, the largest of the regatta with 25 boats.
Severn Sailing Association member Paul Green’s Progress, sailing with five-time Olympian Stuart McNay aboard, placed second overall.
Skipper Ian Hill and the Sitella team from Hampton Yacht Club came out on top in a tight battle with Flat Stanley Racing in the 10-boat Melges 32 class. Quantum professional Jason Currie called tactics, as Sitella won two races and placed second in three others in posting 11 points, three clear of Flat Stanley, which won both races on Sunday.
Trey Sheehan and Terry McSweeney’s Flat Stanley team was the defending champion and was not going to go down easily. “It was a real nailbiter. Flat Stanley was ready to roll today,” said Hill.
Hill previously won Charleston Race Week with an XP44 in ORC and a Cape 31 in ORC Sport Boat. He praised the performance of Currie and fellow crew members Martin Casey (floater), Keiran Searle (headsail trimmer), Harry Scott (mast), Shawn Burke (offside trimmer), Sean Henry (bow), and Alan “Buddha” Nashiki (pit).
“In Charleston it’s all about the shifts and the current and Jason nailed both. We made a plan and stuck with it,” Hill said.
Andrew Graff on Exile topped the J/88 fleet, with Iris Vogel on Deviation in second. Annapolis racer Chris Chadwick and team on Church Key posted two bullets on the last day to finish third. Chadwick sailed with Riley Chadwick, Tom Murray, Brian and Kristen Robinson, and Todd Hiller. Although the conditions could be challenging, Chadwick says, “There were blue skies; it was cool but nicer as the day went on. Beautiful sailing conditions… We were working on some tuning issues. The first day was terrible, so we changed some things and finished Saturday mid-fleet. Then, we tweaked more and took two bullets on Sunday. We took the time to follow the process instead of getting frustrated. I’m proud of the fact that we set out to do what we accomplished and figured some things out. We learned so much over the weekend.”
No boat put forth a more dominant performance than Teamwork, the J/122 skippered by Robin Team of Lexington, NC. North Sails pro and Annapolis sailor Jonathan Bartlett was tactician aboard Teamwork, which won six straight races before finishing second in Sunday’s lone start. The team was awarded the Palmetto Cup as winner of the most competitive handicap fleet for the sixth time. “We’ve been sailing together for so long that everyone knows their role and does it well. Jonathan put us in the right place all the time, and crew work and boat speed were really good,” says Team.
Save the dates for CRW next year, April 16-19, 2026. Learn more at charlestonraceweek.com
# Ian Hill’s winning Sitella team. Photo by Ty Baird Media
# Paul Green’s Progress team. Photo by Tim Wilkes
• Fun pursuit-style race with the option of sailing clockwise or counter-clockwise.
• Pursuit race awards for PHRF Spin & Non-Spin & any one-design class with 5 or more entries by May 13 • Award for top boat with junior sailors onboard • River course for Harbor 20s & Melges 15s
vans & Stepping Out Shirts Party at horn Point
&
Fundraising to help an excellent Cause
• Award for top fundraising team/boat • Red Vans for top fundraising individual
The Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Means Spring on the Bay
For many local racers, the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series (HHSA) Annapolis, formerly known as the NOOD Regatta, marks the true beginning of the racing season on the Chesapeake Bay. As well as expecting 243plus teams to converge upon host club Annapolis Yacht Club May 2-4, racing sailors should expect four seasons of weather in one weekend—as that’s usually how it goes. As well as an ORC class for the distance race, there will be one-design classes: Cal 25, Alberg 30 (Maple Leaf Trophy), J/22, J/24, Lightning, Albacore (US National Championship), Melges 15, J/30 (East Coast Championship), Viper 640, J/70, J/80, J/88, J/29, Sonar, 29-er, Waszp (National Championship), and Harbor 20 (Spring Championship).
The fifth EWE Spirit Cup will be held on May 17. Organizers at the EWE Spirit Foundation in partnership with the Sailing Club of the Chesapeake plan a pursuit race off Annapolis, windward-leeward racing (for Harbor 20s and Melges 15s), an awesome party, and
In addition to on-water action, competitors may attend daily weather briefings by Quantum Sails, daily socials and awards programs starting at 5 p.m. (4 p.m. Sunday), and a chance to shop at the Helly Hansen and Team One Newport store.
What Would EWE Do May 17?
fundraising to give back directly to the community.
While competition on the water is strong, the real contest of fundraising wins the day with awards given for the team that raises the most money, the individual that raises the most money, the individual with
# Waiting for wind at the EWE Sprit Cup 2024.
SpinSheet’s Will Keyworth will take photos on the racecourse; SpinSheet staffers will take gripand-grin shots at the parties. Learn more about Sailing World’s big event: sailingworld.com/regatta-seriesannapolis.
the highest number of donations, and top finishes for Spin, Non-Spin, and OneDesign fleets. Awards include La Spirit beer, brewed in honor of EWE Spirit and provided by Forward Brewing for all sailors of legal drinking age, to be collected after finishing from a separate committee boat approximately 50 yards northwest of the finish line. Enjoy it responsibly!
The EWE Spirit Foundation’s mission is to honor the legacy of Geoff Ewenson by helping those facing immediate hardship bridge financial and social support gaps through mentorship, outreach and financial assistance, thus creating a kind world where everyone has the resources and opportunity to live with dignity, hope, and joy. The organization has given nearly $500,000 to the community in its first four and a half years.
Register today: ewespirit.org/ewe-spirit-cup Order swag: ewespirit.org/ewe-stuff.
Photo by Ted Morgan
# Nearly 250 teams will come to Annapolis for the HHSW Series. Photo by Will Keyworth
WhAT The ViPeR fleeT offeRS:
• A group of dedicated sailors that enjoy having fun, sharing their knowledge, and good camaraderie.
• Excellent events in great locations.
• A boat that is easy to trailer behind just about any car.
• Fast enough for a thrill seeker, stable enough for family sailing.
• Fleets in Annapolis and Hampton.
• Local sailmaker and professional sailor support.
TASTE THE GOOD LIFE
Annapolis Newport Race Starts June 6 and 7
The 40th edition of the Annapolis to Newport Race, scheduled to start June 6 and 7, marks a significant milestone in the history of offshore sailing. Since its inception in 1947, this event has become one of the most respected bluewater races on the East Coast and in the U.S.
Originally known as the Newport to Annapolis Race, the course was reversed in 1957 after feedback from sailors, making it a popular race for those eager to sail north for summer events. Over the years, it has attracted legendary boats and sailors, with the race now featuring a 120-mile leg down
PSA Moonlight Race
On June 7, the Potapskut Sailing Association (PSA) will host another exciting sailboat race called the Moonlight Race. This event originated in 2014 and replaced the PSA Overnight Race which was a yearly event for decades.
This regatta is open to all boats in the following classes: Handicap Division: CHESSS, CRCA, ORC, Multihull, PHRF, and Alberg 30 one design. There could be other one-design classes if five boats enter. The Corinthian/Novice class for less experienced owners will receive assigned ratings.
Starting at Baltimore Light at 4 p.m., the race will cover 14 miles, more or less, but has been as long as 23 nautical miles, depending on wind strength. The course will be posted on the committee boat before the race. The race committee intends to have participants finish by approximately midnight.
Following the race, participants are invited to dock at the PSA clubhouse on Blackhole Creek on the northern side of the Magothy River. A hearty breakfast and beverages will be served for all racers. Awards will be presented at the PSA Fall Party in November 2025. Invitations will be sent to all award winners.
Register at nextsailor.com/app/page/regatta/882. Address questions to Bob Aaron, PSA rear commodore at (443) 632-8010 or Mr75bobaa@gmail.com or Tim Ford, principal race officer, at (410) 375-5994 or timford@nbayracing.com.
the Chesapeake Bay, an offshore leg to Block Island, and a coastal sprint to the finish at Castle Hill Lighthouse.
The race has seen significant growth, drawing record numbers of competitors in the 1970s and 1980s. Its unique threephase course continues to test the skill of the world’s best sailors. The current course record was set during the 2017 Annapolis to Newport Race when Stephen Murray Jr. skippered the Volvo 70 Warrior to line honors as it finished in 40 hours, 14 minutes, and 36 seconds.
To date the 71 registered boats range in size from 32 to 69 feet, with close to a third of the entries sailing with first-time skippers in the race. For the first time this year, an all-women crew on the J/42 Allegiant will compete. Stay tuned to SpinSheet for more.
For more information on the race contact info@annapolisnewportrace. com or visit the event website annapolisnewportrace.com
#
Moonlight Race competitors start at Baltimore Light.
Photo by Tim Ford
# Annapolis to Newport Race 2023.
Photo by Mark Hergan
Sailfaster Podcast: Holding Your Lane, Holding Your Nerve
Sailfaster sat down with Olympian, world-class sailor, and now performance coach, Stephanie Roble to talk about racing at the highest level—and what it really takes to get there. You can listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts or watch it on YouTube.
Lessons from Top Olympian Stephanie Roble
What’s the Olympic sailing lifestyle really like?
It’s four years of training for one event. You completely shift your lifestyle around one question: “Will this make me one step closer to my goal?” It becomes an all-encompassing lifestyle. It’s your sleep, your nutrition, your mindset, your hydration, your gym work—and that’s before you even get to the starting line. Everyone is putting in the same amount of hours. Everyone knows how to get faster. It’s about finding your secret sauce—how do you show up and perform on game day?
What’s it been like stepping away from Olympic sailing?
I’ve done two Olympics and two Pan Am Games, and now I’m retiring from the sport. It’s hard to admit. I get teary-eyed just thinking about it because I really loved what I did with Olympic sailing. But right now, my tank is empty. I don’t have the energy to do what it takes to pursue another campaign. I’m so proud of what Maggie and I accomplished, but I’m also heartbroken because we didn’t achieve the goal. It’s been a journey of reflecting on the positives: how I became a better sailor, a better teammate, a better human.
How do you prepare mentally before a big regatta?
It came down to developing a process and putting a lot of time into understanding what works for me and what doesn’t. Everyone’s different. Some people need a lot of energy and pressure to bring out their best; others need to stay chill. For me, it was about visualization. I believed in seeing it before doing it. I would picture certain moments: tacking off the pin, setting up in a breeze, downwind boat handling in big waves. I’d walk through what I’d be feeling and what I’d be telling myself. I also had checklists for the morning, pre-race, post-race. Having those processes meant I didn’t have to think, I could just do. That’s how you get into flow.
How do you stay focused and bounce back during a race?
As I got older and more mature in my racing, I was able to remove the emotion from decision-making. If Plan A didn’t work—if we didn’t make that tack and cross—I wouldn’t allow myself to get upset. I had this process: stop, breathe, reset. If you react emotionally like, “Ugh, this isn’t working,” you distract yourself. Sailing is so fast-paced,
and you can’t afford that. I always told myself: how do I attack the next thing? That was key. Move on quickly and keep racing.
How do you simplify decisionmaking on the racecourse?
We always diagnosed what kind of day it was: is there somewhere to race to, or is it an open course? If it’s somewhere to race to, that might be a geographic feature like Garda, or current relief like in San Francisco. That narrows your priorities—you’re going for something specific. If it’s open, it’s about boat speed and positioning. That one question helped us eliminate variables and keep our game plan simple. That was huge for us.
What’s next for you?
I will focus on performance coaching. I want to work with athletes and businesspeople to help them with whatever roadblocks they’re facing in pursuit of greatness. The special thing is: I’ve been in (their) shoes. I know what it’s like to chase a big goal, to work hard, to stumble, to adapt. I can empathize with the highs and the lows of the journey.
# Photo by Sailing Energy, Courtesy Stephanie Roble
The Hampton One-Design A Steadfast Class Since 1934
By Jackson Montague
In 1934, when local boatbuilder Vincent Serio constructed the first Hampton One-Design for just $325, he probably did not envision how lasting his creation would become. Nearly a century later, boats have grown more expensive, and materials have evolved; yet the Hampton One-Design class remains steadfastly rooted in its founding spirit. Born out of a Hampton Yacht Club (HYC) initiative in the early 1930s to find an affordable racer for the Chesapeake Bay’s shallow waters, Serio’s visionary design quickly took off. By 1935, the boats were racing across the Bay, and by 1938 the Hampton One-Design Class Racing Association was officially formed, boasting a fleet of more than 70 competitors. While preserving its traditional lines and values, the class has also gracefully adapted to changing times. Innovations
such as trapezes, aluminum spars, and fiberglass hulls have modernized the boats. First introduced by BOW Marine in the 1960s, fiberglass brought reduced maintenance and self-bailing capabilities, appealing to newer generations of sailors.
Today, the Hampton One-Design continues its unique tradition, blending classic Chesapeake Bay racing heritage with modern high-performance sailing. Impressively, wooden and fiberglass boats compete side-by-side, demonstrating that skill and seamanship still reign supreme over materials. Wooden boats, particularly those crafted by modern builder David Judson, remain formidable contenders.
No sailor embodies this more clearly than (my father) Latane Montague, an 11-time Hampton One Design national champion. Montague earned his first
title in 1999 aboard Radio Flyer, a 1962 Serio-built Hampton. From 2003 to 2020, he secured 10 more championships in a Judson-built Hampton, proving the timeless competitiveness and craftsmanship of the class.
The Hampton One-Design community spans generations, from legendary sailors such as Charlie McCoy, who continues racing his beloved boat Calamity Jane decades after winning his first of three national championships in 1961, to young high school and college sailors just discovering the class. Known not just for his skill but also for his memorable “Town Car Bar” in the parking lot, Charlie exemplifies the camaraderie at the heart of the class.
Attracting younger sailors is a key focus for the class, supported by initiatives such as the boat grant program, officially
Photos by Leigh Chapman
launched in 2023 for sailors aged 17 to 30. This program introduces young teams to the high level of competition that the Hampton One-Design offers. The 2024 National Championships highlighted this youthful energy, with one high school skipper, three high school crews, and six college teams competing. The class takes pride in its diverse age range and competitive spirit, creating thrilling races almost every summer weekend on the Chesapeake Bay.
Serio’s visionary design didn’t just create a boat; it sparked a community where
skill and camaraderie matter more than the latest technology. As the races unfold on the Bay, it becomes clear that the true legacy of the Hampton One-Design is not just found in its sleek lines or storied victories, but in the enduring spirit of its sailors and the timeless traditions they
keep alive every time they set sail. While times change, sailors become powerboaters, and the wind shifts, the Hampton One Design Class remains tied to its roots and welcomes all those who wish to get a taste of true Chesapeake Bay racing!
About the author: Lifelong Chesapeake racer Jackson Montague recently graduated from the University of Virginia and serves as the HOD Class commodore.
Oakcliff Grads GO EvErywhErE
Ewan Dossin is finishing High School at Oakcliff and training as a sailmaker. Training Director and Maryland native, Ethan Johnson teamed up with Ewan and dominated the Birdy Fish class at Foiling Week Pensacola.
Oakcliff provides mentorship and job training for America’s leaders. We build fast sailors too!
Small Boat Scene Gearing Up in Annapolis
By Kim Couranz
The fact that small-boat sailing is a very small world will directly benefit Annapolis-area (and beyond) sailors this month, as Annapolis Sail Works opens a storefront in Eastport.
How small of a world is it? Annapolis Sail Works owners Jeff Daigle and Jake Crespin met each other when Jake bought the house next door to Jeff the day Jeff was putting his house up for sale. Lucky for us, the story doesn’t end there: They both have kids in local racing programs, so they likely would
have met anyway. Jake and Jeff have lots in common, too: Both grew up sailing on Long Island Sound, raced in college (Jeff at Texas Maritime Academy; Jake at Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy), had military careers (Jeff with the U.S. Coast Guard, Jake with the U.S. Marine Corps), and sail with their kids on Melges 15s, among other on-water adventures.
As they wound down their military careers, more shared themes emerged. “We enjoyed a fortunate mix of a passion
for sailing and incredibly supportive wives, so we decided to take a run at building a sailing business together,” noted Jeff.
Initially, they built Annapolis Sail Works as an online presence and a trailer packed with high-quality gear to support dinghy events.
“We realized Annapolis could be well served by a dinghy-focused store that helps people sail fast and have fun. We wanted to start small, so we opened our online business and focused our effort on
# Jake and Jeff will open their Annapolis Sailworks store in Eastport.
bringing a mobile store to local regattas and clinics to provide on-site support,”
Jeff said. “The trailer was a great way to get started and support local sailors but was limited to event support. It became clear a more permanent and reliable solution for our customers was needed to support the demand in the Annapolis sailing community.”
They embarked on some research, visiting dinghy shops in the United States and abroad, to explore what might work well in Annapolis.
“When the time came to commit to a brick-and-mortar solution, a great mentor of ours from the onset, Bob Adam of Zim Sailing, had already encouraged Mary Hoffman of Yacht Haven of Annapolis to get in touch with us,” Jeff explained. “We were lucky to find the right place at the right time. We remain incredibly thankful to Bob and Mary for their respective roles in the process. We now have the space we need, and we are within walking distance to the majority of the racing action in town.”
Jeff and Jake will be at the ready with pretty much everything you’ll need to succeed on the water: “We sell boats, parts, and gear. We have worked really hard to identify and stock the items sailors in our area need to sail comfortably in the Chesapeake year-round. We are dealers for several premier sailing parts manufacturers, to include Harken, Allen, Ronstan, and Barton, and are the U.S. distributor for LIROS ropes. We sell Melges, Zim, Element 6, and RS boats and Armstrong Foils. We also sell Dynamic Dollies, Colie Covers, and Vakaros sailing instruments.”
Their gear list includes top-notch providers as well: They carry Rooster, Gill, Zhik, and several other brands. There is nothing like being able to try on a few wetsuits or PFDs before purchasing the one that fits you best rather than hoping for the best when shopping online!
Jake and Jeff know that accessibility to boats, parts, and gear is key to supporting sailing. “Our mission is to grow
the sport of sailing. While local racers and recreational sailors are our primary audience, we want to expand that focus. We aim to make it easier for anyone to get into sailing and to support local clubs and organizations in bringing in new members or students,” said Jeff.
Great gear, happy people, and a wonderful mission and vision? Sounds like a winning combination!
The shop is at 326 First Street, at the end of the building right on First Street across from Severn Sailing Association and Eastport Yacht Club. As you read this, their planned May 1 Grand Opening may have come and gone. Keep an eye out for their hours, which will fluctuate seasonally but will align with local racing and club activity.
Jeff notes that “If you need gear or parts to get out on the water for weekly races, we’ll be ready to help.”
Check out annapolissailworks.com for details and offerings.
Lessons From the Pros: Practicing
By David Flynn of Quantum Sails
In the March edition of SpinSheet I wrote about jumpstarting your sailboat racing season. One of the key items discussed was organizing a practice session before scheduled racing actually begins. This should be a mandatory day with the entire team; no exceptions. I also pushed the idea that this was the best time to hire a coach. They are worth every dime. Better still is that a coach can provide a coach boat and marks to help you organize your practice time. So, what do you do when you go out with your team for that first weekend?
Repetition
I know this sounds absurdly simplistic, but sailing is a sport, and like all other sports it takes repetition. Even bad golfers go out and hit balls before they try to play a round. We can’t expect to tack, gybe, and douse spinnakers effectively without working on it, yet for most of us we expect to just show up on the weekend and have everything work. Start slowly. Go through a series of tacks, then sets, then gybes, to choreograph the required ballet and get everyone certain of what their jobs are in each evolution. You should allow time to discuss to make sure that all are on the same page.
Practice like you race
If you are going to make the effort, go all in. Everybody in the crew has to be there. You need to leave the dock at a defined time. The boat needs to be fully rigged
and ready to go before you leave. Proper gear on, crew ready to go. Don’t wait to figure out the right outfit until you are on the water. You need to jump right into it. Get the sails up; don’t lollygag. Get the boat setup for upwind and sail in a straight line for awhile to get everyone settled in.
Next, work on tacks, going through a half dozen or so until the ballet is smooth. Find a weather and leeward mark. It is important to have real marks so that the whole crew can picture what is coming and prepare accordingly. Setting or dousing a spinnaker at an imaginary mark doesn’t work. Start doing laps. Give yourself enough room so that you can do four to five gybes per run. Too long and the upwind legs will become a slog, and you will not learn anything. Often, you can start with a longer windward leeward to get organized and shorten up to increase the intensity.
If things go badly with a maneuver, stop and get reorganized. It is not a bad idea to take a break after a couple laps to review what is working and what needs fixing. A high-intensity, focused practice that has a defined beginning and end is better than a long drawn-out session with no clear limits or defined goals.
Practice with a partner
The only way to work on boat speed is with a training partner. You are always fast when sailing by yourself. A partner will help keep your whole team focused. To work on upwind speed a proper line up is key. You need to be no more than two or three boat lengths apart, with the bows even going upwind. Farther apart and there will be too many variables. If one boat is clearly gaining and getting into too much separation, they should slow down and re-group.
# It is important to have real marks... setting or dousing a spinnaker at an imaginary mark doesn’t work.
After sailing for awhile, switch sides (leeward boat should become the windward boat). Switch over to doing laps once you are comfortable with the upwind setup. Use a radio to communicate or signals so that you can plan your tacks and agree on which marks to use. Doing laps with a partner will help your mechanics by introducing a higher level of intensity. Your partner can be one of your most valuable assets at a regatta. Plan to go out for each day’s racing at the same time. Sail together for a half hour or so upwind in the course area to work on speed, and set spinnakers and work on the downwind leg.
If you have time, you can do a second beat where each boat takes a side. It can provide tacticians with a good clue as to which side is favored. When you get back to the dock at the end of the day compare notes on rig settings, trim, and tactical decisions. Both teams will be better at the end of the regatta, and the camaraderie practicing together engenders is a plus.
Drills for only one boat
One of the most difficult maneuvers to get right is the turn at the leeward mark as you transition from downwind to upwind. It is a big turn, nearly 180 degrees, and demands smooth coordination between mechanics (taking the spinnaker down) and the speed team (driver and trimmers). The hard part is the rate of turn and matching trim to turn. The goal is the classic “in-wide, out-close” turn that starts wide and ends up with the boat just arriving at full upwind angle as the bow passes the mark. A deceptively simple drill to ingrain the mechanics of this turn can be done all by yourself.
First, take the spinnaker out of the equation. Approach a downwind mark on broad reach (true wind angle between 140-150 for realism), with just mainsail and jib. Practice making a smooth in-wide, out-close turn with coordinated trim. Don’t get ahead on the trim (trimmers love to cheat and pull sails in early). As you pass the mark, take a look back and see how close you got to full upwind trim and angle. Sail upwind for a minute or so, tack, bear away, and repeat. Five to seven repetitions will give drivers and trimmers a good sense of how wide, when to start the turn, and how fast to trim.
Drills for two or more boats
The key to a good start is being on time with speed, but the real measure of success is can you continue for two to three minutes on starboard without being forced to tack by the boats on either side? “Holding a lane” is tricky. A good way to practice is to have the boats line up approximately two boat lengths apart on a beam reach. At an agreed upon signal, turn up to close hauled.
Again, practice a smooth turn with coordinated trim up to close hauled and settle in for three minutes, working on holding height and fore and aft position on boats above and below. This simulates a good, even start and allows you to focus on speed and height without having to battle for the position to begin with.
Practice starts
Starting is the hardest part of the game and perhaps the most important. It is also the most difficult to practice, which is why sailors who have come up through collegiate programs with organized coaching and literally hundreds of starts a season have a big advantage. That is why any clinic or organized practice is an extended series of rolling practice starts.
Timing can vary depending on wind conditions, but five-minute intervals usually work well. Start, sail up wind for a minute or two, and bear off back to the starting area to do it again. In one hour you can get 12 starts in. There is no substitute. All it takes is a group of boats, a committee boat, and a mark. It is not as difficult to organize as you think, and your team will come away with dramatically improved techniques and confidence.
# If you are going to make the effort, go all in. Everybody in the crew has to be there. Photos by Will Keyworth
BROKERAGE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS
S&J Yachts, Brokers for Fine Yachts With 10 locations from Maine to Florida, S&J Yachts is one of the largest full-service yacht brokerages on the East Coast. Our extensive reach & marketing helps find top buyers quickly. S&J Yachts has established an outstanding reputation for integrity and service! Our experienced team of brokers is committed to serving both buyers and sellers, ensuring fair practices and complete satisfaction with every deal. Whether sail or power, we’ll help you find the perfect fit! 410.639.2777 info@sjyachts.com www.sjyachts.com
Yacht Brokers of Annapolis Deanna Sansbury developed her love of the water when she and her husband lived aboard their 40’ catamaran, eventually taking a sabbatical to cruise the Islands. Upon returning, she began selling sailboats for a large brokerage in Annapolis, winning the Beneteau Top Gun award for most new sailboats sold in North America. By focusing on providing exceptional customer service and listening closely to her clients’ needs, Deanna is a top pick for buyers and sellers looking for outstanding results. Phone: 410.629.9186, Email: Deanna@YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com
To find more used boats, visit spinsheet.com
To advertise in the Brokerage and Classified sections, contact beatrice@spinsheet.com
YachtView.com wants to be your concierge Annapolis brokerage to sell your power or sailing yacht. We offer complimentary, secure dockage with electrical hookups for vessels ranging from 25’ to 80’ until sold. Our commission is 8% for direct sales or 10% co-brokered. We advertise on YachtView.com, YachtWorld. com, YachtTrader.com, and Yachtr. com for excellent MLS exposure. Located 15 minutes from BWI and downtown Annapolis for easy customer access. Visit YachtView.com or contact Capt. John Kaiser, Jr. for a detailed yacht appraisal today! Yacht View Brokerage, John Kaiser, Jr., Full-time yacht broker since 1988, call/text: 443.223.7864, John@YachtView.com, www.YachtView.com
Matthew Lambert – YaZu Yachting Since joining YaZu Yachting in 2023, Matt has played a key role in growing the sailboat side of the business. A lifelong sailor and active competitor, Matt has a deep appreciation for wellcrafted boats of all kinds—not just the fast ones! He combines his extensive on-the-water experience with a strong background in sales to effectively market boats for sellers and match buyers with the perfect vessel for their needs. Matt: 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
BOAT SHARING
Shared Sailboats Available Join one of the longest running sailing clubs in the region! Mid-Atlantic Sailing Association shares an O’Day 322 on the Bay and a Catalina 27 on the Potomac. Only a few slots available! Inquire at www.masasailing.org or call Karl at 301.467.9987.
SAIL CLUB ANNAPOLIS 32’ Hunter Vision Sloop, fully equipped. Annual dues $950. Daily rate $100/day. Contact: 434.808.3512 or garudabuss@gmail.com
33’ Reynolds 1D ‘05 Ready to race catamaran. This boat is typically one of the first to finish in any race. Fastest Elapsed Time Race Record Governors Cup. $20,000 Financing available. No slip fees. Call 443.691.9587 or hyperships@yahoo.com www.sailingworld.com/sailboats/thereynolds-33-ripping-it-up-at-22-knots
Sailing Partnership Available on Ilira, an Endeavour 37 Located just north of Annapolis in a beautiful berth, we have an opening in our sailing partnership for those looking for an economical way to get on the water. Onetime $3,000 to buy-in and $3,000 a year in maintenance costs covers almost everything. We're a social bunch and want new partners to have a good experience. Contact Steve at skgibb@aol.com
SAIL
2023 Com-Pac Legacy Sport 16.5’ Keel-Centerboard Sloop Meticulously maintained, excellent condition. Mast raising/lowering system can be done single handedly/easy transport. Main & Jib w/ hoisting furling system. Selfbailing cockpit, centerboard in keel. Includes mooring lines, anchor, fenders, hoist rigging, Boom Tender Plus, Uniden MHS75 VHF radio, Honda 2.3Hp motor (w/ manuals), Magic Tilt Trailer 1590 lbs. GVW trailer. Chestertown, MD. $15,500 Bill 304.820.4398 or NavyChuck1947@yahoo.com. More info: www.bit.ly/2023ComPac
19’ Nickels Lightning 1987 (Hull #14221) Good condition, clean & well-maintained. Includes 2 suits of sails w/spinnakers; Tac-Tick compass; galvanized Nickels trailer; covers. Dry sailed & always covered. Location: Alexandria, VA. $7,000 OBO. Lindsay Bach, 301.789.6468 or lmbach54@gmail.com
Lovely 1992 Rhodes-19 Centerboard Sloop Lovingly kept, fully equipped, ready to sail! Two mainsails, jib, spinnaker, Lazy Jacks, Mercury 3.5 & 7 hp engines, boat trailer, garage-kept half the year, two cockpit tents, mainsail cover, two pairs full cockpit cushions, built-in pump, dock lines, life preservers, flotation cushions, two anchors, chain & line, boat hook, two paddles & gobs of fun! $12,500 (possible delivery). Contact 540.729.2283 or jdenegre1@gmail.com – for more info, visit www.bit.ly/3SMp66W
Pacific
20 Beta 13, new nav, auto-tiller, great sails (asym), single-handers package, premium teak interior, Awlgrip hull. 5’11” headroom and bluewater worthy. Rappahannock, VA area. $27,500 OBO. Text 540.414.4782
1981 Crosby 22’ Catboat Optional bowsprit and furling headsail. New head, sink, galley pump. Inboard diesel. Clean, many extras. Asking $8,500 Potomac River. 704.425.4108
1980
Seacraft Flicka
2022 Excess 12
Brokerage & Classified
1996 Com-Pac 23 In great shape, wellmaintained and loved. Trailer kept, covered in winter. Quantum sails: Main, genoa, working jib, and rehabilitated small jib (2013). Tohatsu 2-stroke 8Hp outboard, Torqeedo-2.0 outboard, and Torqeedo Power-24 lithium battery. New hull paint and standing rigging (2022). Mast raising system. Many spares, replacement parts, all accessories included to start sailing immediately! $10,000 Contact 540.368.2116 or theankers@yahoo. com More info/photos: www.tinyurl.com/z38eu7pv 25’ Cape Dory 1980 Multiple sails, solid boat, outboard bracket. Motor available. $4,100 Trailer available. Call 610.316.7623
28’ Pearson Triton 1965 Arrangement of sails, solid boat. Outboard bracket. Motor available. $1,750 Call 610.316.7623
(Gabrielle) 1984 J Boats J/29
Excellent racer w/ many trophies! Rolling fuller, B&G ZEUS, 3 spinnakers, 1 of each: #1, #2, #3 jibs, and more. Located in Cambridge, MD. $7,500 Call Branden 443.521.9675 or brandenspearconstruction@gmail.com
1967 Allied Seawind 30’ No soft spots, boat pox or delamination. This is a solid boat. Call 410.919.3411 or email olson. roger@comcast.net
1967 Rawson 30 Cutter No coring so no squishy hull or decks. Longtime liveaboard. Needs new fuel tanks and some TLC. Tons of sails. $16,500 Currently West Palm Beach, FL. For more info, email John john@avedelmar.com
Catalina 30 Mark II 1988 Wellequipped for Bay/Coastal Cruising. Wing keel, Universal M25, Extra sails w/ Gennaker, Solar panels 140W ea. Refrigerator, stove, sink, HW heater, Bimini, Dodger, Davits, Anchor Windlass. $19,900 Magothy River. Contact: lehazel@aol.com
1976 30' C&C Cruiser/Racer Immaculately maintained and cared for by 30-year Boat Partnership! EVERYTHING included: 5 Sails, Electronics, Galley, Walker Bay Dinghy, and more! Single Hand Rigged. $24,999 Annapolis area. Owner Sale. Call Mike: 410.533.3964
(Island Time) 1989 Island Packet 31 Ready to cruise, dinghy and 4Hp outboard included. Moving up to larger IP. $55,000 OBO. Located in Arnold, MD. For more info/pics, visit: www.bit.ly/IslandPacket31 or email SV_Island_Time_IP31@yahoo.com
1976 Bombay Clipper 31 Perfect boat for cruising the Chesapeake Bay! Wellmaintained. Yanmar diesel. Ample interior space and headroom, and much more! $12,000 OBO. Located in Arnold, MD. Contact 410.279.6102 or karen.embser@gmail.com. More info/photos, visit: www.tinyurl.com/BombayClipper31
1985 Bavaria 960 One owner sloop - 31.5’ LOA. Good condition but needs TLC. Nearly new sails. Back Creek slip available. Contact: John Halstead, 410.336.3575 or jhalstead@mindspring.com
O’Day 322 1987 Comfortable, wellequipped cruiser w/ upgrades. Reefing mainsail, furling 135 genoa, spinnaker. Rigging inspection 2023. Yanmar 18HP. Instrument package, Autohelm. Refrigerator, stove/oven, water heater. Owned and maintained 16 years. $19,000 610.334.2177 or salderfer@comcast.net, More photos: www.bit.ly/32ODay1987
1974 Seafarer 34’ Sloop and Dock Located at Anchorage Marina, Baltimore, MD. $20,000 Please email CovertChannel@yahoo.com or call 240.475.8400. For additional photos and info, please visit: www.bit.ly/42HKQEK
34’ C&C 1982 Ready to go or stay at the dock in Daytona Beach. Bottom and throughhulls done in August 2024. $23,500 For more information, call/ text 954.969.1323
1978 Islander 36 Classic Beauty Perfect Bay Boat, well-maintained. New Canvas, boom cover lazy jacks, sail pack. New roller furling jib, saloon windows, flooring. Boat cover. BBQ. Yanmar 3JH4E, 40Hp. $38,000 Call Andrew 410.991.8119
To find more used boats, visit spinsheet.com
36’ S2 Sloop 1984 Beautiful Condition, one owner, North Sails, furling genoa and main, engine overhauled 2023, GPS, autohelm, beautiful cabin. Great boat for family cruising. Price reduced! $18,000 Annapolis, MD. Contact Jim Long 240.338.0867 or jalongiii@aol.com
Catalina 36 MKII ‘96 Excellent condition - Solomons, 36Hp Universal Diesel (650 hrs), new roller furling mainsail, new 16 BTU AC/Heat, dinghy, new cushions, extra canvas, many extras and upgrades. $60,000 Text/ Call 571.318.1252
1980 O’Day 37 Center Cockpit Sloop Cruiser/Racer Classic blue water cruiser and award-winning racer. Upgrades include A/C, generator, icebox cold plate, radar, HF/SSB, faired bottom, plus halyards run inside the mast. Price reduced to $35,000 Contact Captain Kinard: RichKinard@ usa.net. SEABEE’s Boat Information Book: www.bit.ly/SEABEE
39’ Seafarer Classic Fiberglass Sloop 1966 McCurdy & Rhodes one-off design. Good sails, recent instruments, 50Hp Perkins diesel in great shape. Needs cleanup and minor TLC. $19,000 OBO Email londonsocialmail@aol.com. For more info/photos: www.amaryllisyacht.com (BULLIT) 2011 Beneteau 40 Meticulously maintained. Many recent upgrades/updates! $167,500 OBO. Text/call 703.626.6786 or email aylucas@yahoo.com For pics/more info: www.bit.ly/2011Beneteau40
Brokerage & Classified
(Majestic) St. Francis 44 MkII 1999 Catamaran in. St. Augustine, Florida. Reduced to $199,000 For more details and photos, please visit: www.bit.ly/Majestic1999
1973 Nautor Swan 44 This 1973 Sparkman & Stevens designed Nautor Swan is ready to be raced or cruised by her new owners. ‘Aura’ is a wellrespected and beautiful Swan 44 with classic lines, and a dream to sail. The boat is berthed in St. Mary’s County, MD and ready for inspection. $62,000 Call Piet Van Os, 305.928.1335, piet@dqyachts.com – For more info/pics: www.tinyurl.com/NautorSwan44
1983 Little Harbor 44 Cruiser 2024 North main, 2023 electronics, 2023 HVAC, 2024 refrigeration, Maxprop, rebuilt transmission. Ted Hood design—furling sails and centerboard—only draws 5’. $124,900 Call Rod Rowan at Crusader Yacht Sales, 703.593.7351 or Rod@CrusaderYachts.com For more info/photos, please visit: www.tinyurl.com/44LittleHarbor
1974 Scheel 45 - Price Reduced! Largely refit last 8 years, over 100K invested. Many improvements. In water at West River Yacht Harbor, Slip B52. Ready to go, must sell, price firm. $29,000 Call Tom Aga, broker: 410.353.5335, www.tinyurl.com/Scheel45
2018 Lagoon 38’ “Scenic Route”
A well-maintained Lagoon 380 w/ four cabins, lithium batteries, a watermaker, and premium upgrades. Perfect for liveaboard or charter! $299,000 BVI Yacht Sales, 443.716.7656, erica@bviyachtsales.com , www.bviyachtsales.com
1978 Westsail 42’ “Sea Rat” Located in St. Mary’s, GA. Offshore-ready cutter w/ low-use rigging and Yanmar engine (700 hours). Watermaker, solar, windvane, AC, and more. Needs paint but offers exceptional value! $79,000 BVI Yacht Sales, 443.716.7656, brian@bviyachtsales.com , www.bviyachtsales.com
2018 Catalina 425 “Sinneton” Located in Jolly Harbour, Antigua. Meticulously maintained sloop w/ three cabins, two heads, air conditioning, watermaker, solar, and generator. Doyle in-mast furling mainsail. Ready for liveaboard or extended cruising. $299,000 BVI Yacht Sales, 443.716.7656, devon@bviyachtsales.com , www.bviyachtsales.com
2021 Neel 43’ “Anegada III” located in the BVI. Lightly used trimaran w/ innovative design, spacious cockpit, and comfortable interior. Blends performance and livability, perfect for cruising. Ready for immediate adventures. $399,000 BVI Yacht Sales, 443.716.7656, chesnee@bviyachtsales.com , www.bviyachtsales.com
2018 Fountaine Pajot 47’ “Electre”
Located in the BVI. 5+1 cabin catamaran recently phased out of charter. Fully operational systems. Spacious layout for 8-10 guests. Great opportunity priced below market for quick sale. $559,000 BVI Yacht Sales, 443.716.7656, chesnee@bviyachtsales.com , www.bviyachtsales.com
1989 Taswell 49’ “Owl and Pussycat” Located in the Eastern Caribbean. Bluewater cruiser by Bill Dixon/Ta Shing. Centerline queen aft, crew and forward cabins, solar, wind generator, Coppercoat bottom, updated sails. $250,000 BVI Yacht Sales, 443.716.7656, ted@bviyachtsales.com , www.bviyachtsales.com
To find more used boats, visit spinsheet.com
(Gray Ghost) 2022 Leopard 42 3 cabin owner version, low hours. Just had a fresh bottom job, saildrive service, and hulls polished. Upgraded generator, awesome dinghy and many other fine upgrades. Location: Brunswick, GA. Price: $670,000 Catamaran Central, 305.587.1311, Bill@CatamaranCentral.com , www.CatamaranCentral.com
(Haven) 2015 Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 Owner version, proven circumnavigator, and ready to go again. Large solar array, bowsprit and Code 0, upper lounge area, dinghy. Meticulously maintained. Location: Currently in Bahamas and heading to The Chesapeake Bay. Price: $525,000 Catamaran Central, 305.587.1311, Bill@CatamaranCentral.com , www.CatamaranCentral.com
(Amihan) 2023 Fountaine Pajot Isla 40 Loaded, low hours! Owner Version w/ all the goodies: 1400w solar, large lithium house bank to run Air Con off of, Watermaker, washer/dryer, Mantus anchor. Location: Lower Chesapeake Bay. Price: $599,000 Catamaran Central , 305.587.1311, Bill@CatamaranCentral.com , www.CatamaranCentral.com
of
is proven
an
and contemporary
New
Epoxy Hull, Carbon Rig, CCR Sailplan. Model year Clearance priced at $475,000 - over 550k to replace today. Trades considered. Call Mike Titgemeyer 410.703.7986 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
Beneteau 373 37’ “Carpe Ventum” is a two-cabin, one-head layout w/ Air Conditioning, Chartplotter, RF Main, Chartplotter, Davits and more. Asking $99,500 Call Denise Hanna 410.991.8236 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
7350 Edgewood Rd., Annapolis, MD 21403
Bert Jabin Yacht Yard
2024 Tartan 365 36’ Hull #8 - Boat
Year WINNER! Tartan 365
coastal cruiser w/
open layout
maple interior.
boat!
2005
2022/2023 Excess 11 37’ Two available - Both very well equipped for cruising, Genset, Air, Etc… Competitively priced at $495,000 and $489,000 - Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2005 Pacific Seacraft 40 40’ Crealock design - quality build! One of the last 5 built - Air Con, Diesel heat, Newer standing and Running Rigging, Solar & Wind Generator. Extensive equipment - Ready for coastal or offshore cruise! Asking $248,000 Call Rod Rowan 703.813.0460 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2015 Tartan 4000 40’ Leisure Furl boom, Reversing electric winches w/ push button controls, under 175 hours! Immaculate - step aboard and go! This won’t last long! $410,000 Call Dave van den Arend 443.850.4197 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2022 Excess 12 40’ “Artemis” is fully equipped for coastal cruising. Highlights include - Genset, Air Con, Dinghy, Code Zero and More! Lightly used on Chesapeake Bay only. Asking $525,000 Mike Titgemeyer 410.703.7986 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
1998 Hunter 410 Rare 3 cabin, 2 head w/ new sails in 2022, Xantrex 1500 watt inverter, A/C in salon, chartplotter, autopilot, solar and more. Asking $109,000 Call Denise Hanna 410.991.8236 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2019 Catalina 425 43’ Lightly used; Extensive custom/cruising upgrades. Private staterooms/heads. Furling, selftacking; AC/heat; Gen; Watermaker; Thruster; Code-0; Dink; Raft. Much more… Asking $495,000 Call Rod Rowan 703.813.0460 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2018 Tartan 4300 43’ “Bella” offers traditional styling coupled w/ a hull and rig designed to deliver optimal cruising performance. All in a very easy to sail yacht. Asking $485,000 Call Bill O’Malley 410.703.9058 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2022 Dufour 430 Loaded 3 cabin/ 2 head Dufour with A/C, generator, bow thruster, Chartplotter, Radar, ST jib and classic main, full canvas. Asking $339,000 Call Denise Hanna 410.991.8236 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
Brokerage & Classified
2025 Excess 14 45’ NEW Excess 14 Hull # 68 just arrived! Amazing opportunity on new boat w/ boat show incentives still included. Call today for a closer look - We take trades! Crusader Yacht Sales 410.269.0939 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2019 Royal Cape Catamaran 530 Superb build quality and offshore capability is just the beginning of this luxury equipped catamaran. Limited time opportunity, contact immediately for showing! Asking $925,000 Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2021 J Boats J/88 Rare opportunity to own a well prepared turn key race winning package - this boat is set up to go win some races. Contact Jack McGuire at 401.290.7066 or Jack@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2022 J Boats J/9 The perfect daysailer for friends and family on the most comfortable J/Boats cockpit ever. Call today for more on this lightly used, well cared for J/9! Contact Jack McGuire at 401.290.7066 or Jack@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2023 C.W. Hood 32 Daysailer Now is your chanced to own one of these sought after boats. Spring is the around the corner, and you could be sailing on this very lightly used stunner. Contact David Malkin at 443.790.2786 or David@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2023 Hanse 348 This is your chance to own a brand new Hanse at an amazing price. Enjoy technical innovations and quality in every detail. Contact Ken Comerford at 410.280.2038 or Ken@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2019 Hanse 388 Custom order w/ a deep draft Keel (6’9”), B&G electronics packaged, self-tacking jib and a German main sheeting system making her a dream to sail. Contact Jack McGuire at 401.290.7066 or Jack@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2002 X-Yachts Model X-412 Performance cruiser designed w/ a large wheel, self-tailing winches, a clean, uncluttered deck layout, and Navtec hydraulic backstay for optimal racing or cruising. Contact David Cox at 410.310.3476 or DavidCox@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2016 Hanse 415 All boat systems have been serviced, recently detailed and ready to sail. New bottom paint, engine service sail cleaning and many mechanical upgrades. Contact Chris Beardsley at 804.885.4090 or Chris@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2019 Hanse 418 This yacht sets new standards, whether easy sailing or relaxing in port, this yacht will amaze you w/ excellent handling, and elegant furnishing options. Call today! Contact Bob Oberg at 410.320.3385 or Bob@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
1980 Alden 44 Massive interior w/ an open style that provides a walk through galley and head, plus ample sleeping for six. Refreshed interior cushions and book cases through out elevate the experience of any cruise. Contact Mike Coe at 410.387.8859 or Mike@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2019 Hanse 458 Don’t let this exceptionally well equipped and cared for boat slip through your fingers. Easy to handle w/ performance that is a cut above. Contact David Malkin at 443.790.2786 or David@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2017 Hanse 588 Extremely well optioned and customized for extended cruising w/ ease. Maintenance is up to date and ready for the next adventure. Contact Chris Beardsley at 804.885.4090 or Chris@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
2019 Hanse 588 This 588 has many upgrades, is well-maintained, and equipped w/ affixed GRP bimini top which is unique in her class. Contact Jack McGuire at 401.290.7066 or Jack@NorthPointYachtSales.com www.NorthPointYachtSales.com
for Fine Yachts Brokers for Fine Yachts
Annapolis, MD 410-571-3605
Rock Hall, MD 410-639-2777
Deltaville, VA 804-776-0604
Charleston, SC 843-872-8080
Palmetto, FL 941-212-6121
Island Packet Yachts 27’-52’ List your Island Packet w/ the Experts!
S&J Yachts is the World leader in selling IPs. No team knows these boats better! We have buyers looking now for these excellent cruising yachts. Call
S&J Yachts now for a free market evaluation. 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
S&S 30 2017 Perfect day sailer, raceready w/ a carbon fiber mast, Quantum Dacron main, 80% self-tacking jib, 100% jib, asymmetrical spinnaker w/ below-deck rigging, and Torqeedo electric sail drive w/ tiller steering. Includes a dodger for added comfort. $135,000 S&J Yachts 410.639.2777 www.sjyachts.com
37’ Catalina 375 2009 Bright interior, bow thruster, full cockpit enclosure, convertible game table, queen berth, and easy-handling furling rig. Includes dinghy, davits, and more. Excellent condition, ready to sail! $169,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
To find more used boats, visit spinsheet.com
2008 Caliber 40 LRCSE Recently upgraded w/ whole new electronics suite, & solar panels, stainless steel arch & integral davits; ready for new adventures $219,900 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
Brokerage & Classified
Island Packet 40 1995 Wellmaintained cruiser featuring 2 spacious cabins, cutter rig, A/C, new rigging, & comprehensive nav systems—ideal for comfortable, extended cruising in all conditions. $169,900 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2023 Bavaria C42 DEMO BOAT – BIG SAVINGS $79,000 - European Yacht of the Year Winner! Fully commissioned and ready for your Spring enjoyment. Modern hull shape provides increased stability, performance & space below deck. 3 cabin/2 head w/ attractive mahogany interior. ICW rig, furling mainsail, B&G electronics, Autopilot, Bow thruster, A/C & more… $429,499 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
42’ 2024 Southerly 420 New Listing –Just completed the ’24 ARC. Solid blue water cruiser w/ variable draft swing keel: draws 2’ 9” w/ keel up & 8’ 11” down. 2cabin/2head layout, bow/stern thrusters, in-mast furling main & more! $795,000 S&J Yachts, 843.872.8080, www.sjyachts.com
Manta 42 MKIV ’07 Bluewater Catamaran: owner’s version - never chartered. Just back from a 7-month cruise. Very well equipped, maintained & upgraded by very attentive owners. Looking for a catamaran that can safely take you where you want to go? Call today! $298,000 S&J Yachts, 410.971.1071, www.sjyachts.com
43’ Shannon 43 1988 Available now, this classic, beautifully built blue water passage maker has had many important upgrades over the last few years. $165,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
Broadblue 435 2010 Ocean-certified 43’ catamaran, ideal for bluewater cruising. Features twin 40Hp diesels, cutter rig, 776 sq. ft. sail area for impressive light-wind performance. Spacious, well-built w/ watertight bulkheads and EU Category A certification. Rare U.S. opportunity. $395,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2006 Island Packet 440 Ready to explore the world, this pristine Island Packet 440 features updated sails, offgrid power, and impeccable maintenance. Comfortable, spacious, and ocean-ready—your dream cruising yacht awaits. $359,500 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
Beneteau Oceanis 48 2014 A sleek and modern design. Three-cabin layout includes a luxurious owner’s suite forward, complete w/ an en-suite bathroom. Magnificent, proven sailing yacht w/ luxurious & comfortable accommodations! $299,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
1999 Beneteau Oceanis 321 Well-equipped, very clean, 2-owner sloop is ready to sail! Shoal draft, asymmetrical spinnaker, bimini, upgraded anchors/chain; dinghy. $39,900 Contact Rick: 443.294.5161 , rstcyr@veteranyachtsales.com , www.veteranyachtsales.com
2023 Catalina 425 Cruise-ready w/ extensive factory options and offshore safety upgrades. Features solar arch, watermaker, Starlink-ready, generator, A/C, and more. $475,000 Contact Rick: 443.294.5161 rstcyr@veteranyachtsales.com , www.veteranyachtsales.com
2024 Kufner 54 Available for immediate delivery. Elegant, modern cruiser, huge cockpit, hideaway grill, and sleek lines. $80K+
www.veteranyachtsales.com
Bimini (2019), Auto-pilot, Refrigeration, and more! Call Deanna Sansbury at 410.629.9186 or Deanna@YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com
35’ 2005 Catalina 350 $109,900 Reverse Cycle Heat & Air, Furling Mainsail, 135% Genoa on Schaefer Furling, Rigid Vang, Garhauer Traveller and Harken Winches. Chartplotter, TriData, Wind, Autopilot, AIS, Kato Davits, Dinghy, Whisker Pole, Dodger/ Bimini/Connector, Zarcor swinging companionway doors, Companionway Cover, Tools and much more!!! Call Tim Wilbricht at 410.507.4359 or Tim @YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnnapolis.com
39’ 2021 Dufour 390 $299,000 Don’t miss out on this lightly used performance cruiser that’s fun to sail and loaded w/ options! Multiple light wind sails including a Code 0 and Gennaker, 200W of solar, Radar, Bowthruster, Upgraded 50Hp Volvo engine and so much more! Call Deanna Sansbury at 410.629.9186 or Deanna@YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnnapolis.com
40’ 2016 Celtic Yachts 40 $349,900 The Celtic 40 (formerly Admiral 40) is a true Bluewater catamaran built to withstand the tough conditions of the open ocean. It is very nicely equipped and ready for extended cruising. Lithium batteries (2022), Solar (2024), Wind turbine, Watermaker, Full cockpit enclosure, AC and so much more. Call Deanna Sansbury at 410.629.9186 or Deanna@YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com
41’ 2005 Hunter 41 AC $139,900 With a simple, yet powerful sail plan w/ all lines leading aft, this boat is easy to single-hand and fun to sail. Generous space above and below decks makes extended cruising safe and comfortable! Features include: Fischer Panda 5K generator (2020), Upgraded 56Hp Yanmar, New Quantum genoa (2024), Fresh bottom paint (2023). Call Deanna Sansbury at 410.629.9186 or Deanna@YachtBrokersofAnnapolis.com www.YachtBrokersofAnnnapolis.com
Anne & Jon Hutchings 17218 General Puller Hwy, Deltaville, VA Anne: 804-567-0092 | Jon: 804-567-0093 www.yazuyachting.com
38’ Beneteau 381 2001 All new batteries (2023), Evolution Genoa &, KATO outboard motor lift (2024), 5 Through hulls (2024/5), Galvanic isolator & Victron battery monitor (2023), Aircon, Autopilot. $69,900 Deltaille, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
44’ Lagoon 440 2009 Owner’s version (3-cabin, 2 head). VERY CLEAN. New saildrives & major engine service (2025), 220V/12V electrical, Solar, 11 KW Genset, Watermaker, Standing rigging (2022), New sails (2021/2), Through hulls and seacocks (2024). $399,000 Cardinal, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 or jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
50’ Hunter 50 Aft Cockpit 2011 3 cabin, 2 head. 2 separate showers. (3) Air conditioning units. In-mast furling. Self-tacking headsail. Bow thruster. 700 engine hours. 6KW generator (400 hours). Refrigeration/Freezer. Deck shower. Tons of storage! $279,000 Deltaville, VA. Contact Matt Lambert 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com
41’ Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42 2007 True Pilot Saloon w/ raised saloon, Fold Down Transom, 2 cabin, 2 head, Solar, Dinghy & 2 Outboards, Aircon, Inmast furling w/ new mainsail 2021, KATO Davits. $145,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
Scan code to
MARKETPLACE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS
For Sale: Sextant - Wincher - A/C 1) Davis Mark 25 sextant, hardly used, w/ box and artificial horizon, $350 – 2) W-wincher, lightly used, still in break-in period, $1,500 – 3) CruiseAir portable AC, $150 - Call Richard: 443.618.6469
ART
Seaside Treasures Shop for nautical decor, beach decor, and more for your lake cottage or beach home! A family run business since 2001. Use coupon “SPINSHEET10” for 10% off! ContactUs@SeasideTreasures.com www.SeasideTreasures.com
CREW
Offshore Passage Opportunities Your Offshore Sailing Network. Celebrating thirty years helping sailors sail offshore for free. Learn by doing. Gain Quality Sea Time! Call 800.4.PASSAGe (800.472.7724). Keep the Dream Alive for the Price of a Good Winch Handle! Since 1993. admin@sailopo.com www.sailopo.com
DELIVERIES
Endurance Yacht Delivery Local and long distance. Twenty-five years of experience with clean insurance approved resume. Power and sail. Please call Captain Simon Edwards 410.212.9579 or email stredwards@gmail.com www.enduranceyachtdelivery.com
contact beatrice@spinsheet.com
Dock Hand/Dock Staff FT & PT April-October. $15 hourly pay plus tips $$ to tie-up boats located at a busy dock bar location in Annapolis. Boating knowledge is a plus. 410.263.1981 Download application at www.schoonerwoodwind.com/employment
Get Paid to Sail! The Woodwind schooners are hiring crew/deckhands. Some sailing knowledge is necessary. Fun people and guests - avg. $27/hour, and lots of great sea time. FT & PT. 410.263.1981. Download application at www.schoonerwoodwind.com/employment
Marine Mechanic Port Annapolis Marina is hiring experienced marine diesel mechanics. Must have a strong work ethic, require minimum supervision and be able to be part of a team. Knowledge of outboards and outdrives is a plus. Our benefit package includes paid holidays, vacation/PTO, health insurance, 401K, profit sharing and incentive bonuses. Send resume to richard@portannapolis.com www.portannapolis.com
Seeking Part-Time Delivery Drivers Looking for a reliable driver to assist with magazine distribution routes in Maryland, three days per month. Compensation is based on the number of stops. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license in good standing, a dependable vehicle, and the ability to lift up to 25 lbs. For more details, please email info@spinsheet.com
Yacht Sales - Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. is hiring new salespeople for our Chesapeake area operation. Candidates must be honest, ethical and have boating experience. This is a commission only position. Contact Curtis Stokes at 410.919.4900 or curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
SAILS SCHOOLS
Marketplace & Classified
SCHOOLS
SLIPS & STORAGE
30’-50’ Deepwater Slips for Sale & Rent Flag Harbor Condo Marina on western shore of Chesapeake in St. Leonard, MD. Slip sales & rentals 410.586.0070/ fhca@flagharbor.com. Storage & Repairs 410.586.1915/ flagharborservices@gmail.com www.flagharbor.com
35’ Boat Slip For Sale: Bohemia Bay Yacht Harbour, Bohemia River Easy access to northern Chesapeake Bay. Includes: electrical hookup, dockside water, Wi-Fi, basic cable TV. T-end of dock offers easy docking for a sailboat. $5,000 302.345.5899 rtmoody@me.com
Sailor’s Wharf Marina on Mill Creek off White Hall Bay, 20-to-45-foot slips with water & 30-amp electric. 1651 Orchard Beach Road, Annapolis, MD 21409. For more information, please call 443.336.3615 or email sailorswharfmarina@gmail.com
SURVEYORS
Find all the latest listings online at spinsheet.com
Seeking Part-Time Delivery Drivers
Looking for a reliable driver to assist with magazine distribution routes in Maryland, three days per month. Compensation is based on the number of stops. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license in good standing, a dependable vehicle, and the ability to lift up to 25 lbs. For more details, please email info@spinsheet.com.
Boating
Welcome To the Team
Yacht Brokers of Annapolis welcomes Tim Wilbricht to its team of experienced sales advisors. With over two decades of success in the boating industry, Tim brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a deep-rooted love for the boating lifestyle to his new role. Tim’s journey in boating began in 1993 when he and his wife, Mischelle, set sail for the Bahamas on their 38-foot sailboat. Since then, his career has been a blend of entrepreneurial success and involvement in the marine industry. After helping launch and grow companies in both Florida and Boston, Tim returned to Annapolis, where he fully embraced his passion for boating. He worked as a yacht broker, eventually becoming the owner of Annapolis Yacht Sales, and later served as director of sales at Pocket Yacht Company. His extensive experience in sales, ownership, and leadership make him a tremendous asset to the Yacht Brokers of Annapolis team.
“Tim’s experience in the industry is unparalleled,” said Matt Sansbury, owner of Yacht Brokers of Annapolis. “From owning a dealership to leading sales teams, he truly understands what it takes to provide exceptional service to customers. We couldn’t be more excited to have him onboard.” For Tim, this move is both a professional and personal homecoming. “I’m incredibly excited to join Matt and Deanna once again,” said Wilbricht. “We worked together at Annapolis Yacht Sales, and I have the utmost respect for the way they serve their customers. Coming back together to provide an unmatched boat buying and selling experience in Annapolis feels like the perfect next step.” yachtbrokersofannapolis.com
Debut
S&J Yachts announces the U.S. debut of the Makai 37 (M37). The team of Makai founders has decades of experience at the very top levels of the catamaran industry. Makai partnered with Italian sports yacht designer Emanuele Rossi to create a sports car inspired power catamaran design. The game changing Makai 37 is the epitome of innovative design, stunning lines, luxury interiors, and exceptional performance. The Makai air glide shock absorbing system enhances efficiency as speed increases, reducing fuel consumption and ensuring a comfortable, carefree voyage. The M37 is not only a sport boat but also a cruiser. At 37 feet, this model boasts a spacious cockpit with galley up and two large staterooms, each with an ensuite head and standing headroom throughout. Enjoy an exciting day on the water with family and friends with the option for extended time aboard in comfort and style. The fit and finish of Makai is quite exceptional using the highest quality materials, and her performance is simply powerful. You will not be disappointed! sjyachts.com
Exclusive Dealer
Kufner Yachts USA announces that Veteran Yacht Sales is its exclusive dealer in the Mid-Atlantic region. This will expand Kufner’s presence in the U.S. market, bringing their innovative and high-performance sailing yachts to a broader audience of sailing enthusiasts. Kufner Yachts USA and Veteran Yacht Sales will feature the flagship Kufner 54 at the upcoming Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show, April 25-27 where visitors will have the opportunity to experience the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, comfort, and cutting-edge design aboard. “We are thrilled to welcome Veteran Yacht Sales to the Kufner Yachts USA family,” said Todd Gasior, president of Kufner Yachts USA. “Their expertise in the yacht sales industry and deep understanding of new construction make them the perfect partner to represent Kufner Yachts. We are confident that their customer-focused approach will resonate with discerning sailors looking for performance and luxury.” Rick St. Cyr, founder of Veteran Yacht Sales, adds: “We are honored to be named the exclusive dealer for the Mid-Atlantic and introducing these remarkable yachts to our clients. Anyone exploring purchasing a sailboat in the 45- to 54-foot range will discover standout features, customizable layouts, and a competitive price point, which makes Kufner Yachts well worth considering.” To schedule a personalized showing at the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show, please contact Veteran Yacht Sales at (443) 512-2960. kufneryachtsusa.com; veteranyachtsales.com
New Leadership
Annapolis Landing Marina is excited to introduce Nevin Williams, the new assistant general manager. Originally from Charlotte, NC, Nevin brings a wealth of experience and passion for boating to the team. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he served as the president and captain of its sailing team. Nevin’s leadership, combined with his love for the water, makes him a perfect fit for the Annapolis Landing Marina family. They look forward to the energy and expertise he will bring to the team and to making this season even better for all its members and guests! annapolislandingmarina.com
Expansion
Catamaran Central announces its expansion into the Mid-Atlantic and Chesapeake regions with the addition of yacht broker, Bill Regan. Catamaran Central is a boutique brokerage firm specializing in all things catamaran, from assisting buyers and sellers to helping clients book the charter vacation of their dreams. Bill brings over a dozen years of brokerage and catamaran sales experience to the table, including working for one of the top production builders in the world. After taking a sabbatical last year to go sailing from Florida to the Chesapeake with his family aboard their boat, Bill is excited to be back in yacht sales with Catamaran Central: “I was really glad to land with Wiley Sharp and Co. They are hyper focused on great cruising catamarans, building relationships, and evangelizing the cruising lifestyle. Catamaran Central does a tremendous job marketing and is really at the forefront of content creation when it comes to how a yacht brokerage should present their listings. I’m looking forward to taking my career to the next level here.” You can reach Bill at bill@catamarancentral.com or (305) 587-1311 (cell/WhatsApp). catamarancentral.com
New Places To Pick Up SpinSheet
Let’s give a warm welcome to these new SpinSheet distribution stops!
• Baked Bistro and Pizza in Hampton, VA
• Cambridge Diner in Cambridge, MD
• Easton Diner in Easton, MD
• Quality Inn in Easton, MD
• Fairfield Inn in Easton, MD
• Bay Bridge Airport in Stevensville, MD
• Queen Anne’s County Library in Stevensville, MD
• Friendly’s Convenience and Deli in Stevensville, MD
• Marine Surveyors Institute in Stevensville, MD
SpinSheet 1997 Top 10 Lists
As we celebrate 30 years of SpinSheet Magazine, take a walk down memory lane with us as we remember the old days of the Chesapeake’s one and only sailing magazine for and by Chesapeake Bay sailors...
Popularized by the “David Letterman Show” and “sailor-ized” and perfected by SpinSheet founding editor Dave Gendell, top 10 lists were a well-loved staple of early issues of SpinSheet. A dozen years later, after Dave made a career change, we attempted to revive the lists and discovered that we weren’t funny enough to pull it off. The list below came from our July 1997 issue following a news bit about the Tradewinds YC and Tradewinds Casino and Sports Book of Costa Rica accepting bets on offshore sailboat racing:
What do you remember best about early issues of SpinSheet? Send a note to editor@spinsheet.com to tell us about it. Thanks for sailing and reading locally!
PERFORMANCE FOR ALL
BECAUSE BETTER PERFORMANCE TRANSFORMS EVERY DAY ON THE WATER.
Offshore campaign or weeknight warrior, at Quantum Sails, the same world-class designers and advanced technology behind our Grand Prix victories power all of our sails. Call your local loft to upgrade your sails.
