First sail of the season

It was a beautiful, mostly sunny day with temps in the 70s (F) and a 5-10 knot breeze from the southwest. I had chaperoned a field trip for my stepdaughter, to see 11th Hour Racing at Fort Adams in Newport. We got to see their new IMOCA 60, Malama, up close, as well as an impressive holographic display along with a movie. There were several activities for the kids, all centered around taking care of the ocean. The weather was just perfect to be on the water. Later that afternoon, I talked with Tiffany and we decided to go for the first sail of the season, a low-key harbor cruise to Fort Adams for the kids to swim.

I warned everyone it would take a bit longer than typical to depart since I had to finish adjusting and taping up the rigging. About 45 minutes after arriving on the boat by launch, we raised the main and sailed off the mooring. The breeze was dying at this point, closer to 5 knots, so going was slow. I started the little outboard, but the kids were already complaining of hunger so I suggested we return to the mooring and they could swim there. They reluctantly agreed.

Once on the mooring, they argued over who would jump in first until finally my daughter took the plunge. Once they were all in the water, their attitudes completely changed for the better! After a bit, they got out, dried off, and we took the launch back to the club to meet my dad

Dad, or "Grampy" as he is better known, bought dinner for all from the grill which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. Overall, a great way to end an excellent evening!







 

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