My wife and I just purchased our first sailboat, a used Catalina 22. I have a limited amount of experience, mostly since buying the boat (one month) and sailing instruction at a summer camp (15 yrs ago). I have taken a general boating safety course and feel very comfortable on Kerr Lake. Very recently we decided to go on a week long excursion in the Pamlico Sound and Neuse River. We plan to take a leisurely pace around and explore, staying on the boat some and off. Many people I have talked with, mostly non-sailing people, think we are crazy. That we are to inexperienced. At first I was very excited about the trip, but after talking with these people I'm beginning to doubt myself. I honestly feel that I understand what we are under taking, (especially weather). We don't plan to make a 3 day passage anywhere, just nose around a bit and explore and enjoy our new boat. I would like some input from more experienced sailors. Any thoughts both good and bad would be appreciated.
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steven f.
do it
Sounds like you are starting our the right way. Now just go out and do it. You already taken a basic boating course now go out and practive what you've learned. Have a great time and be careful. One thing, never yell at your wife/significant other/crew, that will turn them off of sailing in a flash.
Sounds like you are starting our the right way. Now just go out and do it. You already taken a basic boating course now go out and practive what you've learned. Have a great time and be careful. One thing, never yell at your wife/significant other/crew, that will turn them off of sailing in a flash.
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Harvey Small
...and tell us about it!
What a great vacation idea -- and it sounds like you're not married to the boat. Just remember to stay flexible and don't be afraid to let the weather modify your plans. Have a great, safe, "maiden voyage" and tell us all about it on your return!
What a great vacation idea -- and it sounds like you're not married to the boat. Just remember to stay flexible and don't be afraid to let the weather modify your plans. Have a great, safe, "maiden voyage" and tell us all about it on your return!
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Rob Rich
Anchoring...
I kind of agree. My dock neighbor actually spent 72 weekends in a row on his C-22. Can you believe that? Well, he and his wife don't regret a moment of it. I think you should spend some time learning how to anchor, if you have yet to master this task. Check "anchoring" in the archives to learn a little about anchor scope, different methods of anchoring, etc. The reason I mention this is that you will probably sail a max of 8 hours a day, but spend at least 14 at anchor. Trust me - even in a 22 you don't want to be pushing off of a leeward shore at 4 a.m. I think going ashore for one or two nights won't hurt either. Unless your wife is really into boating, five nights on a C-22 might over-expose her, and this can affect future outings. If you are confident in your sailing ability - go for it. Don't forget to check weather forcasts, and don't be too proud to duck into a harbor/marina if the winds get too crazy. Best Regards, Rob
I kind of agree. My dock neighbor actually spent 72 weekends in a row on his C-22. Can you believe that? Well, he and his wife don't regret a moment of it. I think you should spend some time learning how to anchor, if you have yet to master this task. Check "anchoring" in the archives to learn a little about anchor scope, different methods of anchoring, etc. The reason I mention this is that you will probably sail a max of 8 hours a day, but spend at least 14 at anchor. Trust me - even in a 22 you don't want to be pushing off of a leeward shore at 4 a.m. I think going ashore for one or two nights won't hurt either. Unless your wife is really into boating, five nights on a C-22 might over-expose her, and this can affect future outings. If you are confident in your sailing ability - go for it. Don't forget to check weather forcasts, and don't be too proud to duck into a harbor/marina if the winds get too crazy. Best Regards, Rob
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dave
anchoring
last week near south dumpling island I watched a couple in a brand new mainship drop a danforth anchor with no scope and proceeded to drag, she pulled up the anchor all covered with weeds and kelp while he powered to a new spot, without clearing the anchor dropped it again, it proceeded to drag, this went on a few more times then my brother yelled out...clean your anchor, so they did. Finally getting it to "bite" the let out about 2 to 1 scope, the line was verticle. I estimate the boat cost over a hundred thousand and they didn't have a clue what they were doing. pretty scary. dave
last week near south dumpling island I watched a couple in a brand new mainship drop a danforth anchor with no scope and proceeded to drag, she pulled up the anchor all covered with weeds and kelp while he powered to a new spot, without clearing the anchor dropped it again, it proceeded to drag, this went on a few more times then my brother yelled out...clean your anchor, so they did. Finally getting it to "bite" the let out about 2 to 1 scope, the line was verticle. I estimate the boat cost over a hundred thousand and they didn't have a clue what they were doing. pretty scary. dave
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Mike
You will go, and you will have a good time
You sound like you are ready for this step. I would echo the thoughts of those who suggest that you brush up on your anchoring technique. One suggestion: if you haven't already done so, buy a "cruising guide" for the area you will be visiting. I bought the Embassy guide to Long Island Sound, and it has made a world of difference. Even though the area is well-marked and heavily used, the book is chock-full of great suggestions for gunkholing, and with advice about the best passages, warnings of tricky areas, best anchorages, etc. It also has charts, addresses of marinas, emergency information, articles on local history, flora and fauna, and loads of other stuff. Just having this information available when you sail will give you extra confidence about where the closest available help is, what to avoid, and what is worth a visit. Have a great time!
You sound like you are ready for this step. I would echo the thoughts of those who suggest that you brush up on your anchoring technique. One suggestion: if you haven't already done so, buy a "cruising guide" for the area you will be visiting. I bought the Embassy guide to Long Island Sound, and it has made a world of difference. Even though the area is well-marked and heavily used, the book is chock-full of great suggestions for gunkholing, and with advice about the best passages, warnings of tricky areas, best anchorages, etc. It also has charts, addresses of marinas, emergency information, articles on local history, flora and fauna, and loads of other stuff. Just having this information available when you sail will give you extra confidence about where the closest available help is, what to avoid, and what is worth a visit. Have a great time!
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Steve O.
go for it!
How are you going to get experience if you don't leave the dock? Just take every precaution for safety, and remember that some things will go wrong, its how you deal with it that makes you a good sailor.
How are you going to get experience if you don't leave the dock? Just take every precaution for safety, and remember that some things will go wrong, its how you deal with it that makes you a good sailor.
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Don
Go for it, but keep an eye on the weather.
I started sailing out of New Bern on a 21'. It's different from a lake and the the Chesapeake (where I am now) because the rivers (Neuse) are long and shallow. They tend to get choppy if the wind picks up. And they can have terrible thunderstorms down there. So long as you have the motoring option it's fine. You can also go up the Trent River a bit which is very nice and protected. New Bern is a great place to stroll, etc. The Sheraton Marina is great with nice facilities, etc. The sound, however, is a very big place. I just brought my new (to me) 37' from Oriental up to Annapolis through the Sound. It's definately big and wide. Oriental is great and manageable form New Bern. Down Adams Creek is nice too toward Beaufort. And there are some nice anchorages along the western side of the sound (e.g., Broad Creek.) As for crossing the Sound or spending much time out there in a 22' I would think twice unless you're very adventurous. This time of year it can be dead calm and very hot, or very rough. A cruising guide with charts is also a necessity. Get it in Raliegh tho as they are always out of them down in New Bern. As for the Pamilco River, there are several regular posters here from little Washington. Check the owner's listings and email some of them. Definately do it. Good luck.
I started sailing out of New Bern on a 21'. It's different from a lake and the the Chesapeake (where I am now) because the rivers (Neuse) are long and shallow. They tend to get choppy if the wind picks up. And they can have terrible thunderstorms down there. So long as you have the motoring option it's fine. You can also go up the Trent River a bit which is very nice and protected. New Bern is a great place to stroll, etc. The Sheraton Marina is great with nice facilities, etc. The sound, however, is a very big place. I just brought my new (to me) 37' from Oriental up to Annapolis through the Sound. It's definately big and wide. Oriental is great and manageable form New Bern. Down Adams Creek is nice too toward Beaufort. And there are some nice anchorages along the western side of the sound (e.g., Broad Creek.) As for crossing the Sound or spending much time out there in a 22' I would think twice unless you're very adventurous. This time of year it can be dead calm and very hot, or very rough. A cruising guide with charts is also a necessity. Get it in Raliegh tho as they are always out of them down in New Bern. As for the Pamilco River, there are several regular posters here from little Washington. Check the owner's listings and email some of them. Definately do it. Good luck.
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Andy Howard
Welcome to my backyard
The Pamlico River and Sound, along with the Neuse offer some great sailing, interesting towns and marinas to visit along with several secluded anchorages in quiet little coves with only a couple of dolphins and bald eagles to keep you company. You asked for our thoughts good and bad so I'd better touch on the downside. This time of year is HOT. If you can wait until at least mid-September you will have a better time. Weather wise you have to just about expect a late afternoon thunderstorm at least once a week. We've found that a small TV turned on every afternoon from about 5 to 7 lets us know if anything is coming our way. You didn't really go into much detail but you mentioned the pamlico sound and I would recommend that you avoid that body of water (at least on your first trip). It's really a big shallow sea with fetches up to 30 or 40 miles and the wind can whip up alot of choppy confused water pretty quickly. I'd stick to the two "rivers" if I were you. Remember you've got the ICW through "Hobucken cut" to explore anyway. With all that said, I have only one thing to add, Do the trip!!!! Skill wise it's a very small step up from what your used to in the Kerr, when you add in the destinations and things to see and do, it's a whole new world. Please feel free to email me at ahoward@coastalnet.com
The Pamlico River and Sound, along with the Neuse offer some great sailing, interesting towns and marinas to visit along with several secluded anchorages in quiet little coves with only a couple of dolphins and bald eagles to keep you company. You asked for our thoughts good and bad so I'd better touch on the downside. This time of year is HOT. If you can wait until at least mid-September you will have a better time. Weather wise you have to just about expect a late afternoon thunderstorm at least once a week. We've found that a small TV turned on every afternoon from about 5 to 7 lets us know if anything is coming our way. You didn't really go into much detail but you mentioned the pamlico sound and I would recommend that you avoid that body of water (at least on your first trip). It's really a big shallow sea with fetches up to 30 or 40 miles and the wind can whip up alot of choppy confused water pretty quickly. I'd stick to the two "rivers" if I were you. Remember you've got the ICW through "Hobucken cut" to explore anyway. With all that said, I have only one thing to add, Do the trip!!!! Skill wise it's a very small step up from what your used to in the Kerr, when you add in the destinations and things to see and do, it's a whole new world. Please feel free to email me at ahoward@coastalnet.com
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LaDonna Bubak - CatalinaOwners
Have a great time!
Instead of talking about it to non sailors, talk to your marina neighbors. They're more likely to not only give you support but also give you outstanding advice on what to watch out for and places to visit. Don't let the naysayers get you down or steal your joy. Have a blast
Instead of talking about it to non sailors, talk to your marina neighbors. They're more likely to not only give you support but also give you outstanding advice on what to watch out for and places to visit. Don't let the naysayers get you down or steal your joy. Have a blast
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Bill Murray
Do it
I agree with everything said here pretty much. Go do it. If you have doubts about anything ask, hesitate, get more information. I have found that sailors are very willing to help - if you ask. There is sort of a code in many areas that people don't volunteer their opinions unless asked -- so ASK!! You will get lots of new ideas. many will be truly useful and better yet you will make laots of new friends. If it doesn't feel good - don't do it! Have fun. Bill Murray S/V Good Faith H29.5
I agree with everything said here pretty much. Go do it. If you have doubts about anything ask, hesitate, get more information. I have found that sailors are very willing to help - if you ask. There is sort of a code in many areas that people don't volunteer their opinions unless asked -- so ASK!! You will get lots of new ideas. many will be truly useful and better yet you will make laots of new friends. If it doesn't feel good - don't do it! Have fun. Bill Murray S/V Good Faith H29.5
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Joe
Good preparation=good time
Hi Jim, Lots of good advise given already. You'll love the open-ness of the area compared to Kerr Lake. Just watch the weather and keep a reasonable distance back to shelter. Make some lists of what to take and make notes while there of what to bring next time. Andy is right about the temps being better a little later. Oriental Marinia or Whittiker Creek Marina(sp?)would be a good stop atleast for a restful night, food, provisioning and a good shower. Oriental Marina has a pool but not as nice of showers. Most important take plenty of bug repellent. The "green head" flies can ruin your day. Fair Winds, Joe C. in NC '01 H260 Windward Passage Near Charlotte, NC
Hi Jim, Lots of good advise given already. You'll love the open-ness of the area compared to Kerr Lake. Just watch the weather and keep a reasonable distance back to shelter. Make some lists of what to take and make notes while there of what to bring next time. Andy is right about the temps being better a little later. Oriental Marinia or Whittiker Creek Marina(sp?)would be a good stop atleast for a restful night, food, provisioning and a good shower. Oriental Marina has a pool but not as nice of showers. Most important take plenty of bug repellent. The "green head" flies can ruin your day. Fair Winds, Joe C. in NC '01 H260 Windward Passage Near Charlotte, NC
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A. C. Lucas
Do It
Have trailed a 26 ft sailboat to there and launched at Orential. (Also chartered out of Whittaker Creek) In both cases had other boats in party. If weather forcast not to good stay in the Neuse R. area. Take a side trip South down Adams Creek (Intercoastal WW) to Beaufort. Public dock caters to cruisers. So does whole town ! Visit Free Marine Museum. Neat place to visit ! With a swing keel 22 you can go N. East thru Core Sound (which is the Old Intercoastal route and is still well marked) and go N. West thru Thorofare Bay and come out back in the Neuse R. (-- Have Bug Spray, Fly Swatters
Have trailed a 26 ft sailboat to there and launched at Orential. (Also chartered out of Whittaker Creek) In both cases had other boats in party. If weather forcast not to good stay in the Neuse R. area. Take a side trip South down Adams Creek (Intercoastal WW) to Beaufort. Public dock caters to cruisers. So does whole town ! Visit Free Marine Museum. Neat place to visit ! With a swing keel 22 you can go N. East thru Core Sound (which is the Old Intercoastal route and is still well marked) and go N. West thru Thorofare Bay and come out back in the Neuse R. (-- Have Bug Spray, Fly Swatters
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A. C. Lucas
Do It
Have trailed a 26 ft sailboat to there and launched at Orential. (Also chartered out of Whittaker Creek) In both cases had other boats in party. If weather forcast not to good stay in the Neuse R. area. Take a side trip South down Adams Creek (Intercoastal WW) to Beaufort. Public dock caters to cruisers. So does whole town ! Visit Free Marine Museum. Neat place to visit ! With a swing keel 22 you can go N. East thru Core Sound (which is the Old Intercoastal route and is still well marked) and go N. West thru Thorofare Bay and come out back in the Neuse R. (-- Have Bug Spray, Fly Swatters
Have trailed a 26 ft sailboat to there and launched at Orential. (Also chartered out of Whittaker Creek) In both cases had other boats in party. If weather forcast not to good stay in the Neuse R. area. Take a side trip South down Adams Creek (Intercoastal WW) to Beaufort. Public dock caters to cruisers. So does whole town ! Visit Free Marine Museum. Neat place to visit ! With a swing keel 22 you can go N. East thru Core Sound (which is the Old Intercoastal route and is still well marked) and go N. West thru Thorofare Bay and come out back in the Neuse R. (-- Have Bug Spray, Fly Swatters
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