Notice:
The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.
Went down to the marina this afternoon and found two 'tall ships' moored a stones throw across the channel from my slip. There were lotsa folks queued up going aboard getting tours (or so I thought).
I headed out sailing and much to my surprise I found myself in the vanguard of a tall ships fleet. Hmmm.. they were taking these folks out for a ride. Needless to say, I got out well of the way. I figured they'd just motor around the bay for a bit and call it good.
I was surprised when both ships started making sail. I ended up tagging along and watching them for quite awhile (it is a major job to get all that canvas up). When they finally made full sail on the Lynx she took off down the bay like a rocket.
The Lady Washington, being a bit of a beamy lass and square rigged took a lot longer to make sail and get up to speed... but once going, she was pretty darn impressive too. She sure moved a lot of water out of her way.
Of course, my camera was at home... reminder: gotta buy a cheap disposable to keep on the boat.
How cool! Did they engage in a mock battle? When we were in SF two weeks ago you could hear the cannons going off and they were clear across the bay near (Ft. Point?) the North tower and we were at Marina Green ( St. Francis Yacht Club) They stop here each year in Morro Bay on their way north or south but I have never got to see them under sail.
I'm sorry I missed the Lady this year. Last year I went aboard when she docked in Oakland after watching her tie up (alas under motor). The shouted commands and responses were all authentic (according to what I have read). She was in company with Hawaiian Chieftan.
Once aboard, I realized that the bosun was a lady about 30. Between her chiding a crewman for a sloppy furling of the fore stay'sl and showing another crew the right way to secure the jib I asked her if she was the bosun. She said, "That I am", with a smile.
The crew, about 10, were dressed in slops and barefoot. The captain was full rigged. They were of all ages and three gals.
For as large as the brig is, there is very little crewspace.
The LW and Lynx are staying here in Humboldt Bay through Sunday... they have been taking schoolkids out sailing every afternoon so I got to see them under sail again (this time from the shore).
Saturday and Sunday have 'Sea Battles' scheduled. They also have an 'Adventure Cruise' slated for Sunday. Haven't checked yet, but it sounds like you can buy tickets for the sea battles and cruise... will see if there are any 'seats' left.
Will for sure take the boat out and tag along... with the camera this time.
Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ. The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.