Winter Blues

As I sit in front of my computer on a cold wintry overcast February day with the temperature outside hovering around 0 degrees Celsius I think about some of last years sailing experiences & look forward to the up coming season getting back out on the water.

Last year was my first attempt at sailing. The learning curve took some rather drastic dips and climbs. The one that stands out most of all was when when my mast broke while out sailing with friends in "the gap" just northwest of  Penetanguishene harbor. The day was sunny but the winds were forecast to be 15 to 20 knots gusting to 30. For an inexperienced sailor these wind speeds were a recipe for disaster although I was unaware at the time of the dangers. It did not help either that the boat is 36 years old and I assume, although I am not 100% sure, the mast is original equipment. Fortunately, I insured the boat and the Insurance company covered 2/3 of the replacement cost.

O well, we made it back to shore under motor power, a bit embarrassed but determined that I would once again sail. Three weeks later she was back in working order thanks to the expertise of the good people at Klacko Spars in Oakville Ontario.

Following are some pictures documenting some the things I did and places visited last summer:

Sailing along the east shore of Beausoleil Island

At the dock...Puttering

  Tied up at dock at friends cottage on Robert's Island 

Coming in from a day of sailing to Hindson Marina

Anchored out at Giant's Tomb Island

Sunrise at Giant's Tomb

Anchored out at Frying Pan Bay - Beausoleil Island

Trolling for Salmon with my Dipsy Diver

Anchored at Beausoleil Island