Frostbite Sailing

[Mike16388]

I know it just doesn't seem right, but...

Down here at South Padre Island, TX, the very southern tip of that part of America that can count votes, there just isn't any winter. We can't seem to find any reason for winter and so sail all the year 'round. Here "Winterizing" is how you introduce people to that fellow Jonathan! We import New England leaves to spread on our lawns. And you only buy one coat in your life...once you stop growing up...then you put it in the closet to attract moths.

 

[steve conway]

not related

i'm wondering how i can find a blueprint/schematic for a 73 o'day 22; wondering where the water tank is and how to get to the bilge pump or connect a bilge pump to get the water out?

 

[Bert]

Oday 22

Here is a start:http://www.sailboatowners.com/boats/specs.tpl?fno=60&sku=303483265414037&bts=TA diagram can be located from a link on this page.

 

[Dennis]

Cold is relative

Cold for me is anything under 65 water and abient air. Don't need to feel the spray freezing in my beard. Blood has thinned and shivers kick in under 60. Winter sailing is for the tropics.

 

[Bob]

Perfect day

After sleeping on my boat I got up about 5 am last Sunday (October 31) to get out on the lake and sail through the sunrise. It was chilly enough to require a t-shirt, shirt, and jacket. As the morning warmed up, those gradually came off and sometime around noon my torso was bare. It was unseasonably warm for Virginia this time of year, but perfect sailing weather with plenty of wind and relatively clear skies. The fall colors are spectacular, and sunsets often are too. I find, however, that fall and winter days I considered near-perfect 30 years ago are now borderline uncomfortable - something to do with thinner blood? A little anti-sea-serpent medecine afterwards helps a bit, though.

 

[Steve Hunter]

Better Sailing/Uncrowded Anchorages

I agree with Joe Grande's post. Fall and spring sailing in the Pacific Northwest is fantastic. With a full canvas cockpit enclosure and a little heat it may not be Palm Springs but the winds are better. The popular anchorages are uncrowded and the marina operators are more relaxed. You can find a nice cove or bay to anchor in up in the islands and have it all to yourself...no neighbor's generator/engine noise...just the sea and the birds. No worries about tight anchorages or someone fouling your chain and rode. No late night partying...just great scenery and a chance to cozy up to the Dickenson heater with a great cup of coffee and a good book. Life doesn't get any better.

 

[R3]

Give up sailing... Because of the wheather!!!???

Who gives up sailing just 'cause of the weather? I love to sail all year long. Frostbiting is one the most fun times to race and sail-- not only are all the power-yachters south for the winter, but all the bad sailors usually stay at home. Also, sailing in near-blizzard conditions can be the most beautiful time to sail. If you have never been sailing in the snow, go out in it at least once in your life.Just dress like you were going skiing.

 

[Phil4516]

Seeking info.

I am about to own a Mac. 26, and would like to know more about Smith Mtn Lake. Can you help?

 

[Bill18593]

Going out today

local weather report:sunny with scattered high cloudshigh: 55Fwind: 12 - 15kHow could it be better?!!But when the temps get below 40, I stay around the house.

 

[FrigateWhisper2]

We sailed today!

The temp was near fifty, the winds were light and from the south, and we hit 6.2 knots.The last day our marina will pull boats is the 19th, and I have the last slot on that day.I would leave her in even longer if I could. Cold weather sailing does not daunt me at all, and I would sail as long as there was clear water. Alas, Lake St Clair is shallow and always freezes over, so our season is shorter than I would like.I will be one of the first boats in next spring, and will sail on the first weekend day with decent wind.(I was in the USCG and served on Polar Icebreakers both north and south. Under way is the only way! USCGC Northwind and USCGC Bristol Bay)PS My wife, a novice, is proud of the fact that today, for the first time, she docked the boat!