First let me apologize. I do get carried away writing at times. Until Beemer, 29mkII, was moved down to Biloxi 14 months ago, she had been a lake boat for ten years, day sailing and spending weekends in the marina, racing around the cans. Sailing on a friends 48' Tayana occasionally over the last seven years in the Gulf spoiled me to the joys of cruising to destinations and point to point distance races. Have sailed from Corpus Christi all along the Gulf to Key West on that big beautiful yacht. I remember the first time I sailed Beemer out into the gulf, out of the protection of Deer Island. Single handed, I headed out. The winds were 10-12 out of the south in the marina. I threw the 105 on deck and rigged the first reef. Figuring I'm by myself, better to be prudent. A little chop in the bay as I motored west to open water. Most of you can guess what happened when I cleared Deer Island. Yep, bam!! 16-25 knots and 4' seas. Of course, Beemer was getting tossed around. Got the main up and the 105 and Beemer put her ear down and took off. Dang, she's a good lil boat. Since moving her to Biloxi, it's been mostly day sails, occasional overnight anchoring on the barrier islands, and tons of working on her, setting her up to cruise. Next month, my sailing/racing buddy, his wife and myself are heading out on a week cruise to Pensacola, 100 miles away. We will do fairly short days, 20-40 miles. Stop and enjoy ourselves going and coming. Anchoring here, marina there. Since most of the time I'm by myself, having to plan all the extra stuff, blankets, towels, food for three has been fun. My wife went out and bought a new quilt for the v-berth and new towels. Guess my older towels and blankets aren't good enough for guests. LOL. They both use CPAP machines at night. Still working that electrical requirement. And although his wife loves sailing, she is rather frail, so have to really watch weather so not to bounce her around too much. We will probably spend a fair bit of time on the ICW, at least heading east into the prevailing winds. The return should be outside, downwind run. Anyways, just thought I'd share my little plan for my first cruise. Oh yes, for any of you southerners, I'll always accept suggestions for anchorages or marinas between Orange Beach and Ft Walton Beach. That means you too Dennis.
Bob Caughran Beemer, 29mk2, 309 Biloxi, MS Sent from my iPad _______________________________________________ This list is supported by the generous donations of our members. If you wish to make a contribution to offset our costs, please go to: https://www.paypal.me/stumurray All Contributions are greatly appreciated!
