Santa Cruz Island confidence sail

With time running out before our offshore sail back home to San Francisco, we needed to put a few more miles on V to be sure we had everything prepared and set. The channel Islands were the perfect trip. We realized we really had only a few trips under our belt in this boat and were not completely familiar with everything. Luckily, we were able to get a long weekend off together to make a trip to Santa Cruz Island happen. The channel Islands usually always guaranteed 20 knot winds, a rough ride, and plenty of anchorages to practice anchoring.

Our "new" used sail, since we destroyed the last one.

Kelly joined us for the trip. She got to test out the settee and leecloth.  She said she was too afraid or seasick to join us at the top.

After a six hour ride beating into the wind, we arrived to Prisoners cove. 

So beautiful.

We had a rough time finding the perfect dinghy. The first dinghy we bought, we thought was perfect. Great engine and paneled floor. We quickly realized it was way too big, we did not need a ten foot dinghy and a 45 lb outboard. Luckily we found a good home for her (Kelly's Dad) and she is now a fishing boat on a lake. Andy ended up finding the "perfect" dinghy. She may be small, but its a lot easier hoisting her over the lifelines once we reach the anchorage. The outboard is teeny too, but gets the job done. The speed on the throttle is shown by a turtle and a rabbit to show your speed.... We named her "Baby V."

The next morning our plans to explore the painted caves were crushed with early high winds and steep swells, so we decided to sail downwind to the South side of the Island. We headed to Smugglers cove. We snorkeled through the kelp forest and found Garibaldi, and sting rays. 

Baby V sunset cruise

Andy making his famous Anis pasta! He looks enormous in this photo.

What we learned:
-Our boat kicks ass in moderate to high winds
-The interior layout of the boat works really well during long sails while close hauled. Lots of handholds.
- The cockpit is secure and safe when it gets wet and rolly.
- We have confidence in V and are ready for the long haul back home to San Francisco!
-Wide angle lens works for boat shots but not people shots.