Anyone Getting Out Much, Yet?

[Foswick]

Our new boat has a heating stove, which is something I have wanted to extend the comfortable sailing season. And, we finally got our transfer slip from Blaine down to Bellingham, putting the boat within 15 minutes of our door step. So, we are just about out of excuses not to sail in the "off" season.

We've been out a bit, over the past couple of weeks and there is just about no one else out there. Sailed from Blaine to Bellingham and never saw a single pleasure boat.

The only time I've ever really sailed this early is when racing, so I don't really know what others are up to until about mid-May. Is it still too chilly and unpredictable?

 

[MFD]

Yeah, I think around this time of year and the months after Labor Day are some of the best for sailing around the Salish Sea.
The parks, anchorages, marinas and towns are pretty empty of tourists and such.
Plus the wind is somewhat reliable - unlike midsummer

For sure, it's a little chilly so having a heater on the boat is a real game changer if anchoring.
And yes, the weather is a bit more unpredictable. Just keep an eye on the forecasts and all is good. It's not like we are ever far from a snug anchorage or marina around here if absolutely needed?

It is all about what people want out of sailing, and to a certain degree their comfort level.
A lot of folks just want 15kn wind, flat sea, and warm sunshine - which is also great.

 

[jssailem]

Reluctantly no sailing, yet.
I have been to the boat about every 2-3 weeks for a couple days to work the projects. Currently in Everett for another two days working the table support lift replacement. The docks are quiet. Only a few people around when the sun comes out. I suspect most are working jobs to support their boating addition.

The 40ish degree temps are beaten back by the on board heater allowing one to work in a shirt and jeans. While my deck looks like the poster child for winter grunge, the interior looks almost as bad, with stuff moved onto other stuff opening space in the area of reconstruction.

All work and no play makes for dull times. With the excuse that the engine needs to have some run-in time, I fire her auxiliary up and make a run out into the harbor. The chill of wind and rain melts away as my Hadley takes to the swell. Soon the projects will be compleat and we will again set her sails for exploration and adventure.