RODE MAINTENANCE 101

When cleaning the anchor rode recently I noticed the splice between the nylon line and the anchor chain could use some help. The bitter-end was in almost new condition compared to the end that was attached to the chain. After reversing the line and tying a new splice, we're back in business better than ever. Happy anchoring!

BEFORE

AFTER

FOURTEENTH ANNUAL

Weather played a role in the 14th Annual Nesporado adventure. We started with a tropical storm that was moving into Arizona. We caught the edge of that Baja system and then later in the week, we were pelted with N/NW/NE winds which made the north side of the islands no bueno. After picking up Sailor Jerry in Avalon, we decided San Clemente Island was not wise in this weather so we made our way to Catalina Harbor. The three hour trip there from Avalon was exciting and well worth the effort and adrenaline rush. We're hoping to see a full contingency of Nesporados for next years trip.

Well-stocked with the three major food groups; beer, bait and cheese. 

This is why we call him Jackpot.

The Admiral joined us for a post voyage celebration and took this pic.

 

MORE STORY...

Words can't describe our adventure but let me try; awesome, unbelievable, not for the faint-hearted, edgey, scary, tense, exhausting, breathtaking, wonderful, amazing, truly spectacular, and it was REAL! (A bit of Seinfeld humor) Nine days, 200+ nautical miles, all types of weather, two islands, a whale, dolphins, an eagle and island fox, tons of birds, and let's not forget transiting the busy LA and LB shipping lanes plus the Pacific Missile Range. But that's a story for another time.

With out a doubt, this trip will never be forgotten.

Nice way to begin the trip. Whale sighting off the NP/HB coast.

Anchored at Albert's one night. With a south swell running it became very surgey.

Potato Harbor was picking up the W/NW wind swell and was not the place to be.

On our way from Potato to Smuggler's. We renamed it Snuggler's.

Sunrise over Anacapa with the SoCal Ta Ta fleet.

Capt had his moments in the galley.

Looking into Little Scorpion from Scorpion Bay.

We'll have to work on our selfies.

Little Scorpion.

Last evening in King Harbor, Redondo Beach. The next morning and 7.5 hours later we were back in Dana Point.

BACK TO SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

A few pics for our many loyal followers. More story to come.

First stop King Harbor, Redondo Beach. Sailor Sam and JD met us for dinner on board. 

The Admiral on our return to Smuggler's after a night at Albert's.

Little Scorpion. What a wonderful anchorage when the weather is decent.

Leaving Smuggler's at sunrise with Anacapa Island in view.

SAILING ROTARY STYLE

The winners of the Rotary charity auction enjoyed an afternoon on the water in clear warm skies, a decent breeze and even a few dolphins in the mix. The Admiral prepared several delicious veggie and meat platters to compliment the champagne. Another thumbs up day!

Dena, Lee and Tom at the helm.

Tom's better half Laura.

One happy crew at the end of the day.

SMOOTH SAILING

Senora Deb and Captain Cabo are home from the East Cape for a breather so they joined us for a day on the water. Good day, good times. As the senora said, "Life is good!"

The Admiral and Deb 

El Capitan

The deck hand

LET'S GO CAMPING!

The Admiral and I left sea level and ventured to our favorite spot in the Sierra, Cedar Grove, Kings Canyon. Plus, we scored our favorite camp site, #19 in Sentinel Camp Ground. So up went the 40+ year old tent (AKA "The Hilton") and out came the even older Coleman stove. Like the capt says, "If it works, don't fix it!" Truly heaven on earth.

This spot is close to Muir Rock

10 mile day hike to Mist Falls

Our base camp next to the river