Catalina Island for NewYears

[surf_n_turf]

Any one sailed to Catalina that could give me some advice on the trip?

Thanks in advance!

[LWinters]

Hey Surf,

I've sailed out to Catalina from Redondo Beach and spent 5 days circumnavigating the island. I'd be happy to help however I can. The two best resources I found were Fagan's Cruising Guide to Central and Southern California and a DVD from Westmarine called Cast Off for Catalina. Tons of good info right down to the anchorages and proper mooring procedure out there. Don't spend all your time in Avalon. Our favorite was Cat Harbor. Nice and quite, but an easy walk to Two Harbors for a big glass of Buffalo Milk. Watch out for that stuff. It sneeks up on you.

Give me a shout if you have any specifics you'd like to cover.

LW

[ianhlnd]

well, seeing that a front is coming down the coast with expected rain and 25kt+ winds, seas building in the channel, I don't think you'll have a problem getting a mooring. Now is the time, pretty quiet out there. Next week, watch out.

[Enhydras]

Surf n Turf,
Where are you coming from? What size boat are you coming in?

ianhlnd is right we have plenty of mooring available in the Isthmus and Avalon but dress warm the days are nice but once the sun goes down it gets cold fast!

Keep a close eye/ear on the NOAA weather reports and I find the web sites

http://cdip.ucsd.edu/?nav=recent&sub=nowcast
http://www.nawcwpns.navy.mil/~weathe.../analysis.html

very useful.

Please make sure you have a working VHF and GPS on board and keep your BoatUS/Vessel assist card on board, it saves saves time in case you need assistance. Also if you have anything less than a Captains card please upgrade. Trust me if you need a tow, and sooner or later everyone needs a tow, having at least a Captains card will save you money, lots of money.

Nate West
Vessel Assist Avalon

[surf_n_turf]

Thanks All. Still gathering info and preparing for the trip. If anyone has any last second advice, please feel free...

Nate - I sent you a PM - hope it made it through.