Hello from Seattle

apogee137 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-04-2010

Hi,

I just purchased a 1978 Islander 28 named Windswift. I do not have years of sailing experience, but have immersed myself for the last 9 months or so. This includes having taken three classes and nearly continuous research during that time.

I was bitten at the Seattle Boat Show, where I saw a Dana 24. When I saw this boat, I was so impressed by the design, that I thought, "I could be happy with this type of boat". Of course, Dana 24's are very expensive, so I started researching boats, Seamanship, started shopping for a boat, etc.

I found Windswift, which I felt would be a great boat to learn on and cruise Puget Sound and BC in. Someday, after I've learned a lot more and have more "on the water experience", say in 5-6 years, I plan to purchase a small sailboat designed for blue water passages.

I have learned a great deal in a relatively short period of time, but there's no substitute for years of experience, so I'm relying on friends and now, hopefully, internet forums to enhance my knowledge.

I'm 49 years old and find myself wishing I'd found sailing a long time ago, so I'm trying very hard to make up for lost time.

I look forward to getting to know you, even if only via this forum. And I thank you in advance for helping me with my many upcoming questions. :-)

Warm Regards,
--Steven

CaptainForce · #2 (**permalink**) 10-04-2010

Hello from the far corner in in Florida. I'm sure the Islander can do all that's asked. Enjoy the adventure, Aythya crew

jackdale · #3 (**permalink**) 10-04-2010

Howdy from Calgary

I do most of my sailing on the BC coast. I have also explored the San Juans. You are in one of the best cruising areas of the world.

You have a good solid plan. In 5-6 years, you can get to a lot of great anchorages.

Jack

erps · #4 (**permalink**) 10-04-2010

Greetings Steven,

Our kids grew up on an Islander 28. We still have a month of nice cruising weather here in the Salish Sea before it gets nasty. Do you have a heater on your boat?

blt2ski · #5 (**permalink**) 10-04-2010

You might also look up some of the local yacht clubs. some are better at getting info from folks, others not so. Sloop Tavern is a good one in ballard. some races, monthly meetings. Besides being cheap at $65 a year. There are some asset clubs too, but a bit more expensive, ie 300+ a year. Both types have plus's and minus's. If you are somewhere north, west or south, there are some other clubs too.

Welcome to the crazyness. Just watch out and do not get smacked! He will pick you up once he smacks you!LOLOL

jrd22 · #6 (**permalink**) 10-04-2010

Welcome Steven. Good boat you picked, I'm sure you'll have a lot of fun learning on it.

newhaul · #7 (**permalink**) 10-04-2010

hello and welcome from apple tree cove kingston wa the islanders are a well built sailboat i would go blue with mine hope to see you out there

blt2ski · #8 (**permalink**) 10-05-2010

By the way, check out this owners site

IYCNW Home

apogee137 · #9 (**permalink**) 10-07-2010

I have to say that I'm overjoyed to be a part of the sailing community. Everyone I've spoke with both in person and in forums like this, have been so helpful and welcoming. Apparently, sailing attracts a lot of very friendly and warm-hearted people.

Thanks everyone for the welcome and the tips on clubs, etc. I hope to see you in some beautiful anchorage somewhere.

apogee137 · #10 (**permalink**) 10-07-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by erps

Greetings Steven,

Our kids grew up on an Islander 28. We still have a month of nice cruising weather here in the Salish Sea before it gets nasty. Do you have a heater on your boat?

No, I don't have a heater yet, or a dinghy for that matter. I'm in the process of researching both of these items, since I want to get it right the first time.