baby steps

[MtHopeBay]

Had my first single-handed day sail yesterday and it was a blast as well as and adventure. It's only (if I remember correctly) the 6th time I've had her out under sail. Twice with knowledgable sailors, 3 times with my wife and now my solo.

We sail in Yaquina Bay, Newport Oregon, which is pretty small especially when the tide is low like it was when I was out. I use a line to hold the tiller in place. I just tie it off on the stbd quarter, take a turn around the tiller and the other end into a clam cleat. I have a furler on the head sail but I have to go up onto the fore deck to hoist the main.

Things went great until I was ready to douse sails. The head sail furled pretty easily but I lost track of where I was and hit a submerged object. Then I got stuck in mud too close to shore while bringing down the main. The outboard got me off the mud.

Baby steps but I'm having fun working on her, making things work and then enjoying sailing. We're going to our first Wednesday club race this week.
Mike

[chall03]

I find that there is definitely something about being on a sailboat by yourself.
The first time I single-handed is still one of my fondest sailing memories.

[Mipcar]

Kudo's to you. I've yet to do it myself. I've sailed with completely unskilled crew but that is still another pair of hands.

I'm looking forward to doing it, I still remember vividly the first time I flew solo as a student pilot.

Mychael

[Joesaila]

It surely was the best way for me to begin learning about sailing. I soon was able to pack a lunch, sail away, drop the hook and then resume my sail after eating and having coffee. Like most I find solo sailing ... theraputic

[MtHopeBay]

there was a young couple in a small boat tending crab traps and as I sailed near he stood up in the boat and took pics. I tacked and went by and he got some more. wish I had those. Our sails are yellow and orange with big blue Balboa "B" and sail number. It must be a sight but I haven't seen it yet.

So if you have those pics or if you see me sail near and take pics of "Eastwind" you can send them to me.
Mike

[lbdavis]

Here-here on the single handing - the be the best way to "let go" of the stress land puts on us.

Maine's eastern location in it's time zone makes after work sails very attainable this time of year.

What time is it?

[MtHopeBay]

Originally Posted by lbdavis

Here-here on the single handing - the be the best way to "let go" of the stress land puts on us.

Maine's eastern location in it's time zone makes after work sails very attainable this time of year.

What time is it?

It's your latitude, 43N that gives you the long days. We're just a little further north at 44N and it's light until at least 8:30 and not really dark until about 10. The only downside is that it's an hour and a half drive from work or home to the boat. It's the drive that tires me out.
Mike

[imagine2frolic]

Yaquina Bay,

I am thinking this is where the bridge is Gothic looking with a huge arch in the center? The lighthouse being the same as in San Diego, and Mendocino? Beautiful country all around there.

Good on you for getting out alone. Yes baby steps is a sure way to survive. At least it should be! BEST WISHES in more successful sailing with, or without company.......i2f

[MtHopeBay]

You mean this one?

[WheresTheBrakes]

beautiful !!