Saturday, October 23, 2010

A long, wonderful sail under ideal winds for new R&B crew recruitment. No press gangs required! Underway around 9:15 under clear skies and a 10 knot southwest wind. Next five hours cruised Willoughby Bay and out to the Shed and back in gradually warming air temps and bright sunshine. Shocking development when the first stage crew realized they had brought no mobile phone, watch, or camera. Blue Captain's severe embarrassment was mitigated when the phenomenon of Maya's internal time clock was discovered. Slightly late mid-course crew pickup and bio break (head code 245)at Willoughby Harbor. The Yorktown Vikings safely embarked with their life-sustaining coffee. Lady Maya retained control of the helm for most of the expedition, using both of her "rights" to the fullest extent under the watchful eye and guidance of Tattoos by Carl. Point target steering seemed to work best. Impressive helmsman nimbility demonstrated during tacks. Previous Caribbean, Lake Ponchatrain and Neuse River sailing experience came in handy and soon the R&B was winging around the bay. Big bonus as a large pod of acrobatic dolphins cruised by heading southwest. Slowed on a broach reach for the standard pot-luck lunch of sushi, grapes, wheat thins, beer and water. Moved on to a run with some gratifying moments a "wing-a-wing". No sign of the Lee Ho. Spied the "Round the Lights" race in progress but kept well clear so as to avoid pressuring the racers. Also passed Zoya and Cool Change with friendly hails. Uneventful return to base with the best "Jumper" ever seen and buncha fully qualified new crew (certificates pending).