The first day of Spring is at hand. Have you been sailing all winter or has your boat been on the hard? If you're waiting for Spring to sail, when is your splash date? On a sunny Spring day with 10-15 knots of wind, just how warm does the temperature have to be before you'll go sailing? What's your formula for staying warm on a cool day? Fleece long underwear, heavy duty foulies, hot coffee or tea? Or do you consider cold weather a day when you have to wear something over your T-shirt? Tell us about your Spring sailing plans, then vote in this week's Quick Quiz at the bottom of the home page. (Quiz contributed by Gary Wyngarden)
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LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners
Fair weather sailor
I hate being cold. I don't mind being chilly, which happens even in the dead of summer here, but cold
I hate being cold. I don't mind being chilly, which happens even in the dead of summer here, but cold
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Rob R.
Black Clothes aren't just for mourning!
It never really gets too cold to sail down here, some days are just better sailing days than others. In cool weather, I like to wear the darkest clothing possible, to soak up as much heat from the sun as possible. Even on colder days, the central Texas sun is strong... Of course, this only works til sundown - after that, it's time for the heavy stuff. Growing up in the North, I learned the value of layering when I was a kid. I still apply it in cold weather down here, starting with a T-shirt, then another, then long sleve T, then a Turtleneck, then a sweatshirt, and so on depending on the temp. That being said - it was so warm on the boat Friday night I had to kick off the sleeping bag! Have Fun - Rob
It never really gets too cold to sail down here, some days are just better sailing days than others. In cool weather, I like to wear the darkest clothing possible, to soak up as much heat from the sun as possible. Even on colder days, the central Texas sun is strong... Of course, this only works til sundown - after that, it's time for the heavy stuff. Growing up in the North, I learned the value of layering when I was a kid. I still apply it in cold weather down here, starting with a T-shirt, then another, then long sleve T, then a Turtleneck, then a sweatshirt, and so on depending on the temp. That being said - it was so warm on the boat Friday night I had to kick off the sleeping bag! Have Fun - Rob
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Duane Cady
All winter long
I sail all winter here in Georgia. Ive found that it gets uncomfortable beating into the wind when its anything less than @ 40-45 degrees. But sometimes the brisk wind on your face and glowing cheeks make it all worth it. I wear a shirt, black fleece pullover, and a windbreaker on top.
I sail all winter here in Georgia. Ive found that it gets uncomfortable beating into the wind when its anything less than @ 40-45 degrees. But sometimes the brisk wind on your face and glowing cheeks make it all worth it. I wear a shirt, black fleece pullover, and a windbreaker on top.
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Dan
Ski gloves are not just for the slopes
Shorts and T shirts in the marina are often exchanged for polartec pants and a winter coat at the breakwall. I have a "red nerd hat" that has flaps that pull under the chin that often goes on as soon as the shore birds are left astern. I have accummulated 300 nm on my sumlog over the winter since Halloween--almost all single handed, and almost all in San Diego's southbay. Winter winds vary from less-than-zero to around 25-30 inside the bay. I have come in with seaweed hanging from the box pulpit and chainplates, so we do get a chop running on occasion. While this isn't Vermont, it does get cold here in the "America's Finest City". With one notable exception, I am often the only sail in sight--especially near and after dark. What a waste of good wind and relatively smooth water. In fact, even in summer, most sailboats disappear betweem 1600 and 1730 hereabouts. But then most Californians truly believe that it is "freezing" when the temp drops anywhere below 55 degrees. More sea room for us northern transplants.
Shorts and T shirts in the marina are often exchanged for polartec pants and a winter coat at the breakwall. I have a "red nerd hat" that has flaps that pull under the chin that often goes on as soon as the shore birds are left astern. I have accummulated 300 nm on my sumlog over the winter since Halloween--almost all single handed, and almost all in San Diego's southbay. Winter winds vary from less-than-zero to around 25-30 inside the bay. I have come in with seaweed hanging from the box pulpit and chainplates, so we do get a chop running on occasion. While this isn't Vermont, it does get cold here in the "America's Finest City". With one notable exception, I am often the only sail in sight--especially near and after dark. What a waste of good wind and relatively smooth water. In fact, even in summer, most sailboats disappear betweem 1600 and 1730 hereabouts. But then most Californians truly believe that it is "freezing" when the temp drops anywhere below 55 degrees. More sea room for us northern transplants.
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Mike Dobson
Snow Squall Sailing
After having riden motorcycles across country in January and April in my younger days. I gained experience that I will share with you hear. If you install a 12 vdc outlet in the cockpit you can use what I use to keep warm. I use an electric heated vest and chaps to generate heat and wear a motorcycle one piece riding suit. I find it very comfortable and plug in when I need to to stay toasty warm. I been sailing in Feburary and as late as December on the Cheseapeake, even in snow squalls.
After having riden motorcycles across country in January and April in my younger days. I gained experience that I will share with you hear. If you install a 12 vdc outlet in the cockpit you can use what I use to keep warm. I use an electric heated vest and chaps to generate heat and wear a motorcycle one piece riding suit. I find it very comfortable and plug in when I need to to stay toasty warm. I been sailing in Feburary and as late as December on the Cheseapeake, even in snow squalls.
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Mark
Biglarge
Take the mean or air temperature subtract 10 degrees for being on the water and forget the wind as you sail with it. If you dress acordingly you will alwayse be comfortable Remember though clothes come off easier than going on especially if you dont have them to put on.
Take the mean or air temperature subtract 10 degrees for being on the water and forget the wind as you sail with it. If you dress acordingly you will alwayse be comfortable Remember though clothes come off easier than going on especially if you dont have them to put on.
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alden smith
A novice sails when the temp is at least 60
I have just purchased a sunfish from my next door neighbor, who is on to bigger
I have just purchased a sunfish from my next door neighbor, who is on to bigger
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John Allison
One Deep Freeze a Year
There is a small group of us Lake St Clair sailors who brave the fall water lows just to get that one last sail in before transfer to the hard. We try to pick a snow day for that and fondly refer to it as the "deep freeze". The trick to enjoying that sail is to have a small group (the more experienced the better). This allows for time on deck and time in the comparative warmth of the cabin. Next on the list of importance is clothing. Most of us use the layered approach with fleece being high on the list as well as water repellent/windbreaking outer wear. A good set of boots and adequate head protection (recommend the old time wool navy watch caps) is also a must. Hot coffee or tea is most appreciated. A good libation (good brandy is recommended) is a must but not until back in port with the electric heater cranked up to full tilt. Safety is also a key factor. Even more important than the life vest is the safety harness. No one is allowed on deck without being safely anchored to the boat. This is even a good idea once back in port with the libations flowing freely. Spring is tricky due to the ice flows which are generally in abundance. The cold is not the problem here it is the collision with these giant ice cubes. I am generally back in the water by 1 May and sailing almost immediately after that but the ice cubes are generally long gone by then.
There is a small group of us Lake St Clair sailors who brave the fall water lows just to get that one last sail in before transfer to the hard. We try to pick a snow day for that and fondly refer to it as the "deep freeze". The trick to enjoying that sail is to have a small group (the more experienced the better). This allows for time on deck and time in the comparative warmth of the cabin. Next on the list of importance is clothing. Most of us use the layered approach with fleece being high on the list as well as water repellent/windbreaking outer wear. A good set of boots and adequate head protection (recommend the old time wool navy watch caps) is also a must. Hot coffee or tea is most appreciated. A good libation (good brandy is recommended) is a must but not until back in port with the electric heater cranked up to full tilt. Safety is also a key factor. Even more important than the life vest is the safety harness. No one is allowed on deck without being safely anchored to the boat. This is even a good idea once back in port with the libations flowing freely. Spring is tricky due to the ice flows which are generally in abundance. The cold is not the problem here it is the collision with these giant ice cubes. I am generally back in the water by 1 May and sailing almost immediately after that but the ice cubes are generally long gone by then.
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Mike
Its supposed to be pleasant
I like cool weather, so sailing when its a little cool is great for me. But its supposed to be fun; sailing in cold wet weather is unpleasant no matter how you look at it. I'll go if the windchill is in the fifties so long as its at least partly sunny. I'm looking forward to some great spring sailing.
I like cool weather, so sailing when its a little cool is great for me. But its supposed to be fun; sailing in cold wet weather is unpleasant no matter how you look at it. I'll go if the windchill is in the fifties so long as its at least partly sunny. I'm looking forward to some great spring sailing.
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David Foster
Water more important than air
When the water is below 50, there is a real concern for the safety of a M.O.B. So we are careful to wear a life jacket, and hook up the tether until water temperatures are safer. Both the admiral and I are willing to dress for a chill if the weather is nice. But that seldom means going out below 50 (air). David LAdy Lillie
When the water is below 50, there is a real concern for the safety of a M.O.B. So we are careful to wear a life jacket, and hook up the tether until water temperatures are safer. Both the admiral and I are willing to dress for a chill if the weather is nice. But that seldom means going out below 50 (air). David LAdy Lillie
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Fred Scott
Time to sail
Yes it's spring but this morning woke to 5" of fresh snow and highways closed. My sailing will not start till June and then some days have to wear my Floater Jacket to enjoy my sailing. How lucky some of you are. Fred Scoot LADY Vi Mac 26X Sherwood Park Alberta
Yes it's spring but this morning woke to 5" of fresh snow and highways closed. My sailing will not start till June and then some days have to wear my Floater Jacket to enjoy my sailing. How lucky some of you are. Fred Scoot LADY Vi Mac 26X Sherwood Park Alberta
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Chris Hyland
Lets go now
It's still a little early her in New England but the boat went in over a week ago. It's ready to sail and will go out for the first sail of the season next Saturday. If you dress corectly in dark colors, a thermos of hot coffee, tea, or cocco, and an understanding that day sailing this time of year may be only 1 to 2 hours, you'll be fine. Better an hour of sailing, than a whole day of wishing you did! Regards, Chris
It's still a little early her in New England but the boat went in over a week ago. It's ready to sail and will go out for the first sail of the season next Saturday. If you dress corectly in dark colors, a thermos of hot coffee, tea, or cocco, and an understanding that day sailing this time of year may be only 1 to 2 hours, you'll be fine. Better an hour of sailing, than a whole day of wishing you did! Regards, Chris
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Virginia Wyeth
A little obsessive
Dressing in several light-weight wind cutting layers that include a layer of polar fleece and a layer of silk is key for me. Another essential is my polar fleece headband that keeps my ears warm. But if I've done all my keep warm tricks,
Dressing in several light-weight wind cutting layers that include a layer of polar fleece and a layer of silk is key for me. Another essential is my polar fleece headband that keeps my ears warm. But if I've done all my keep warm tricks,
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Linda
lcain@modbee.com
Sailing is something I can do year round. I sail in the Delta and San Francisco Bay. Weather conditions where I live are not an issue for the most part. The only time I would choose not to sail is during a storm. I like to come prepared for any weather condition and wear
Sailing is something I can do year round. I sail in the Delta and San Francisco Bay. Weather conditions where I live are not an issue for the most part. The only time I would choose not to sail is during a storm. I like to come prepared for any weather condition and wear
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Bob Walker
the lake does not thaw till mid April
As the ice doesn't leave Lake Windermere in the B.C. Rockies till mid April, my daughter and I will be trailering our 1985 Catalina 22 the 600 miles to Vancouver for a three week sailing trip in the B. C. Gulf Islands. We have a Coleman propane tent heater, propane stove, and small plug in heater when conected to shore power. For snug nights we use fleece sleeping bags and during the day foul weather gear is the norm. The best thing about an April trip is no crowds - best oysters and crabs and guaranteed wind. The coastal area between the B.C. Mainland and Vancouver Island is beautiful and provides for some of the best cruising grounds in the world. When we return in early May the ice will be off the lakes and we can then enjoy the many large inland lakes in our area during the summer. Befor purchasing our Catalina 22 we had chartered a Catalina 36 last April and a Hunter 30 last September to explore the Gulf Islands - still lots to see!
As the ice doesn't leave Lake Windermere in the B.C. Rockies till mid April, my daughter and I will be trailering our 1985 Catalina 22 the 600 miles to Vancouver for a three week sailing trip in the B. C. Gulf Islands. We have a Coleman propane tent heater, propane stove, and small plug in heater when conected to shore power. For snug nights we use fleece sleeping bags and during the day foul weather gear is the norm. The best thing about an April trip is no crowds - best oysters and crabs and guaranteed wind. The coastal area between the B.C. Mainland and Vancouver Island is beautiful and provides for some of the best cruising grounds in the world. When we return in early May the ice will be off the lakes and we can then enjoy the many large inland lakes in our area during the summer. Befor purchasing our Catalina 22 we had chartered a Catalina 36 last April and a Hunter 30 last September to explore the Gulf Islands - still lots to see!
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Wayne
Sail Year Round
I sail year round. There has only been one instance in the last three years that I had to remove snow from the deck and cockpit in order to sail. I generally avoid going out in icy conditions because the road to my slip is too dangerous then. There are great winds in the winter and the average low for the Charlotte, NC area in January is between 45 and 50 degrees.
I sail year round. There has only been one instance in the last three years that I had to remove snow from the deck and cockpit in order to sail. I generally avoid going out in icy conditions because the road to my slip is too dangerous then. There are great winds in the winter and the average low for the Charlotte, NC area in January is between 45 and 50 degrees.
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tho52mas@nccw.net
YAHOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Last year I bought a combo-wetsuit. One is three mm thick, the other 2mm. They can be worn together. Combine that with the large skiing vest that I wear all the time and GOGOGOGOGOGOGOGOG. Yesterday was the first!!! Lake Erie was like GLASS. Hardly any wind, but the Mouette is only 19' and weighs 600 lbs, plus me at 210, so it still sails in a very mild breeze. I didn't even get wet. And not a boat in sight!!!
Last year I bought a combo-wetsuit. One is three mm thick, the other 2mm. They can be worn together. Combine that with the large skiing vest that I wear all the time and GOGOGOGOGOGOGOGOG. Yesterday was the first!!! Lake Erie was like GLASS. Hardly any wind, but the Mouette is only 19' and weighs 600 lbs, plus me at 210, so it still sails in a very mild breeze. I didn't even get wet. And not a boat in sight!!!
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dockdog
On a sunny day, wearing five layers, gloves inside
mittens, insulated boots, two pair of socks and navy watch cap. I stay out until my toes get cold or the sun goes down. I don't like cold, but I love sailing. If the sky is gray I'll get comfortable in the cabin and read or write. or nap and dream. Have fun, bundle up, go sailing. dockdog
mittens, insulated boots, two pair of socks and navy watch cap. I stay out until my toes get cold or the sun goes down. I don't like cold, but I love sailing. If the sky is gray I'll get comfortable in the cabin and read or write. or nap and dream. Have fun, bundle up, go sailing. dockdog
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Jim Trunzler
Southern sailing
Ah, for those of you who don't live in the South, I hate to tell you this, for all of you Northern sailors, but we can almost sail year around in central Mississippi. If we put on a jacket and a watch cap, that's considered a cold day sailing.
Ah, for those of you who don't live in the South, I hate to tell you this, for all of you Northern sailors, but we can almost sail year around in central Mississippi. If we put on a jacket and a watch cap, that's considered a cold day sailing.
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