More islands. More freedom. More moments that stay with you forever. When you charter with The Moorings, the British Virgin Islands is yours to explore — without limits, without hassle, without compromise.
Discover the world’s #1 charter destination with the world’s #1 charter company. Because when it comes to your vacation, only the best will do.
Are you ready to embark on your next on-water adventure? Before you set sail, here are ve things to know about boat insurance.
1. Boat insurance isn’t just for accidents
With comprehensive coverage, you’ll also be protected nancially for theft, vandalism, and unexpected events like storms if you need repairs or replacements due to damage.
2. Accidents can happen to anyone
When accidents happen, boat insurance offers liability coverage for damages or injuries you cause while boating, up to speci ed limits. It can also cover lawsuit costs if you’re sued.
3. Boat insurance can cover medical payments
Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you’re in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
4. Most lenders require boat insurance
If you nanced your boat, you’ll likely need boat insurance since most lenders require boat insurance to protect their investment. Additionally, some marinas or municipalities require proof of insurance for docking.
5. Progressive offers specialized boat coverages Ever worry about getting stuck on the water?
Progressive’s Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage** can help. It’s an additional coverage that steps in if your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, paying for on-water towing, jump starts, soft ungroundings, and fuel delivery. Fuel cost isn’t included.
Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your voyage. Cruise with con dence thanks to Progressive Boat insurance. Because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. and af liates. Product features are subject to policy terms and conditions and may not be available in all states or for all vehicles and coverage selections.
*No. 1 rating based on boat market share data from Rate lings.com.
Sign & Glide® is an optional coverage you can add to any Progressive Boat policy and costs $30/annually ($50/annually in Florida). Prices are subject to change.
Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes.
Go to progressive.com to learn more.
29
See the Bay: Celebrate the Season on the Waterfront
Lighted boat parades, holiday strolls, waterskiing Santas, and other festivities on and along the Chesapeake and its tributaries.
presented by Osprey Marine restOratiOns
32
A Sailor’s Holiday Gift Guide
What should you give to the sailor in your life this holiday season? We have ideas.
38
Eye on the Bay: Sultana’s Downrigging Weekend
Tall ship and classic boat sailors ended the sailing season in spectacular fashion in Chestertown.
Photos by Eric Moseson
40
Our First and Fabulous Croatia Charter
Despite some early setbacks, two Chesapeake couples delighted in their discovery of Croatia through a bareboat charter.
By Bob Oppelt
46
Postcard From the Panama Canal
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to go through the Panama Canal? (Spoiler alert: it’s really cool.)
By
Andy Wescoat
56
New and Exciting J/105 Invitational and More Racing News
A Creative J/105 Invitational, EYC Fall Brawl, J/105 Chesapeake Bay Championship, J/22 and J/24 East Coast Championship, Albacore International Championship, BCYA Harbor Cup, and more Chesapeake racing news.
Eric Moseson took this month’s cover shot during public sails at the Sultana Downrigging Festival October 31 to November 2.
612 Third Street, Suite 3C, Annapolis, MD 21403 (410) 216-9309 spinsheet.com
PUBLISHER
Mary Iliff Ewenson, mary@spinsheet.com
A SSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Chris Charbonneau, chris@spinsheet.com
EDITOR
Molly Winans, molly@spinsheet.com
SENIOR EDITORS
Beth Crabtree, beth@spinsheet.com
Kaylie Jasinski, kaylie@spinsheet.com
COPY EDITOR
Lucy Iliff, lucy@spinsheet.com
FOUNDING EDITOR
Dave Gendell
ADVERTISING SALES
Eric Richardson, eric@spinsheet.com
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
Brooke King, brooke@spinsheet.com
ISTRIBUTION / BROkERAGE / CLASSIFIEDS MANAGER
Beatrice M. Mackenzie, beatrice@spinsheet.com
ART DIRECTOR / PRODUCTION MANAGER
Zach Ditmars, zach@spinsheet.com
RAPHIC DESIGNER / PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
Royal Snyder, royal@spinsheet.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kim Couranz, Chelsea Co, Captain Cheryl Duvall, Tom Guay John Herlig, Eva Hill, Pamela Tenner Kellett, Craig Ligibel, Gwen Mayes, Steven Toole, Cindy Wallach, Ed Weglein (Historian )
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Walter Cooper, Ben Cushwa, Mark Hergan, Will Keyworth, Ted Morgan, Al Schreitmueller, Cindy Wallach
DISTRIBUTION
Keith Basiliko, Martin and Betty Casey, Jennifer and Al Diederichs, Gregory and Dorothy Greenwell, Dave Harlock, Crystal Mayes, Mark Schlichter
SpinSheet is a monthly magazine for and about Chesapeake Bay sailors. Reproduction of any part of this publication is strictly prohibited without prior consent of the officers of SpinSheet Publishing Company. SpinSheet Publishing Company accepts no responsibility for discrepancies in advertisements.
SpinSheet is available by first class subscription for $45 per year, and back issues are available for $4 each. Mail payment to SpinSheet Subscriptions, 612 Third Street, Suite 3C Annapolis, MD, 21403.
SpinSheet is distributed free of charge at more than 800 establishments along the shores Chesapeake Bay. Businesses or organizations wishing to distribute SpinSheet should contact the SpinSheet office at (410) 216-9309 beatrice@spinsheet.com.
Idid not want to go sailing on July 30. It was 95 degrees. Beastly humidity made for a “feels like” temperature of ughhh. I felt blah. In the morning, I’d packed my sailing shoes, gloves, and hat into my car, but by late afternoon, man, I did not want to drift around in four knots of wind and act cheerful.
You have to go, I told myself from my air-conditioned office, watching the leaves seem still in the trees. They’re nice guys. Go bob around, have a laugh, and go home. It will be fun.
Let me back up and get to the part that’s hard to write. Three weeks beforehand, my dad had died. SpinSheet contributor and friend, Steven Toole, had sent me a condolence note and invited me aboard his J/120 Hot Pepper for a Wednesday night race on the West River on July 30. What a kind offer and just what I needed: fresh air, time on the water, a healthy distraction. Of course, I said yes. The invitation had come 10 days before the sail, so I didn’t yet know it would be miserably hot outside…
You have to go, I reminded myself on race day.
Once I drove into Galesville, I lightened up. Turning my car onto Riverside Drive toward the West River Sailing Club evoked happy memories of racing out on the trapeze on Chesapeake 20s and the friendly sailors at the club. Looking out on the river, I remembered a fun cruising weekend a dozen years ago and returning to the anchored boat from what is now Stan and Joe’s Riverside, paddling my “standup” paddleboard on my knees— proving that fruity rum drinks and standup paddling don’t mix well—and being heckled in the anchorage for it.
Ah, West River shenanigans. With these lighthearted memories stirred up, I turned my car into West River Yacht Harbour and walked down the dock to meet the Hot Pepper crew, a couple of whom I already knew. Did I mention the wind picked up?
Steven fired up the engine, and we got underway and raised the sails. A gorgeous 12-knot southerly made for a spinnaker start and leg to the mouth of the river. I acted as squirrel when we dropped the chute and helped trim and
tail in the cockpit. They were a welcoming, easy crew to sail with.
“I can’t believe this awesome breeze,” I kept saying, relieved to be in a “cool” place on the rail with the wind in my face.
“It’s always like this down here,” they assured me (“down” meaning south of Annapolis).
After a beautiful, breezy race, we buttoned up the sails, shared a beverage, and headed down the docks to Pirate’s Cove for shrimp tacos and live music on the patio. Afterward, I walked to my car feeling like a different person than the sad editor at her desk five hours before.
It might have seemed like an ordinary summer race for the Hot Pepper team, but for me, it was pure therapy exactly when I needed it. I am most grateful to Steven and crew for the mood booster. I won’t forget it.
Happy holidays, sailors!
Icame across this 90-year-old gem, a Herreshoff 12.5 with Bill Griffin and Charlie Flanagan (the owner), sailing on the South River.
David Sites
It was great to see you at the Triple Crown awards at CRAB (in October)… This week I enjoyed reading the most recent issues of both SpinSheet and PropTalk cover to cover and enjoyed every minute. There was such a great variety of stories from winterizing your boat to why one gets a captain’s license.
My favorite was the Tony Parker interview you did (“A Wet and Wild Ride for Bangor Packet at the J/24 Worlds” p. 57 November SpinSheet). What a tough competitor at 80. He is very inspirational. We at the H20 fleet are very pleased that Tony now owns a Harbor 20 and is actively racing with us, too. We have attracted some very experienced sailors to the Harbor 20 fleet. Thank you for all your years of great writing and being the editor.
Peter Trogdon
Thank you for your kind words, Peter. It’s an honor to be able to write about passionate, inspiring sailors for a living, and I aim to do it well. Your note makes my day! Thanks for reading—and be sure to teach Tony a few tricks about H20 sailing. He claims he needs it. Seriously. ~M.W.
Here’s a look at the log canoe action on Langford Bay. This image is from the July 12 gathering. Light winds weren’t the best for racing but were spectacular for arty photography. I had so much fun as a witness for the three days I took pictures. In fact, I have close to 2800 high resolution shots, and if I can be of any service to SpinSheet, please reach out. I’m rather new in the game… I post many images to my Facebook page and to the “Chestertown Life” Facebook page.
Being new, I don’t expect a whole lot; I simply like to share the beauty of the Chesapeake. Kent County is a little gem, and I’ve photographed it from the water four to five times a week for the last few years from my little 17-foot center console. I’m first in and last out from late February through December.
Hope they bring you a smile. Best to you and thanks again for positive energies.
Paul Hanley, Jr.
Thanks for sharing your images, Paul. We love when new photographers reach out to us. You never know when we might be able to use one or more of your photos in SpinSheet or in one of our digital offerings such as spinsheet.com or a newsletter. Stay in touch! ~M.W
We found this hat on Bembe Beach at the Annapolis Sailing School. I am submitting it to try to get it back to its rightful owner. I can only imagine that Antigua Sailing Week 2006 holds fond memories for that person. I will happily and confidentially return it to them.
Matt Sheridan
Send your questions, comments and stories to editor@spinsheet.com
Aremarkable aspect of the 2025 Triple Crown of Charity Sailing Trophy was that this year’s winner, Team Tradecraft, only raced three times during the season—they’re primarily cruising sailors! The annual trophy presentation and reception was held at the Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating Annapolis Adaptive Boating center on October 30.
This summer, three Annapolis charity races—the Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta, CRAB Cup, and Hospice Cup— attracted 238 boats, more than 1000 skippers and crew, and most importantly raised $556,627 for charity. The Triple Crown of Charity Sailing Trophy is awarded to the skipper with a combination of the best race scores and highest fundraising. All three races are scored individually; the results are tabulated for the eventual champion.
The winning team, led by co-skippers Roger Mason and Chris Valentino of the Solaris 44 Tradecraft, finished with two second-place finishes and one firstplace finish, while raising $56,690. This year’s champions also raised the highest amount of funds last year, and they were recognized and awarded the Weems & Plath Rainmaker Award.
How did this team raise so much money for charity in one season? It started with a vision for doing something for the “greater good” combined with a passion for sailing.
Most of the crew are former or current intelligence officers. Mason says, “When you serve in the intelligence community, there’s an extra level of closeness because you can’t go home and tell your wife what you did that day, so you share with your fellow officers.”
He noted during his acceptance speech that this group had dedicated their careers for the greater good. They decided to “put our resources together to do something good. It was an easy combination.”
Among his team members, there were two cancer survivors, family members with disabilities, and many with connections to Hospice care, which made the three-race charity challenge more personal and relevant.
Not only did the Tradecraft team only sail in three races all season long, but they took different crew members with them for each race, which is quite different than what most racing sailors aim for. Mason, Chris Valentino, and Catie Valentino were the core crew members; for each race the other four or five crew members onboard were new: a “keep your crew fresh” strategy to maximize fundraising. Mason notes that they had 22 unique crew members over the past two years of charity races (and the team raised $90,000!).
Another notable fundraising team strategy was to avoid “overlap” by segmenting races: 1) for the first race, focus on close family and friends; 2) for the next race, focus on professional networks; and 3) for the last race, focus on neighbors and extended networks. The team also offers matches, so, for example, if the team gets close to $10K, they do a match to take it to the next level.
At the awards ceremony, the second-place team, Tracey and Warren Richter’s J/22 Committed, was also recognized. John Heintz on his Harbor 20 Endurance placed third. Both teams have won the Triple Crown Trophy in the past. Past trophy winners John Dodge and Dan Flagler also joined the reception, making it an evening filled with some of the most generous sailors on the Bay.
Weems & Plath former owner Peter Trogdon shared the story of the creation of the attractive Triple Crown of Charity Sailing Trophy, which is on permanent display at the CRAB Adaptive Boating Center.
If you are interested in competing in the Triple Crown of Charity Sailing 2026, you must compete in and raise funds for all three charity regattas: Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta (midJune), CRAB Cup (mid-August), and Hospice Cup (mid-September). All three events offer cruising boat classes as well as small and big racing boat divisions. Stay tuned to SpinSheet in 2026 for confirmed dates and registration information.
By Patrick Smith
This season, Pride of Baltimore II traveled 9306 nautical miles, making nearly two dozen port visits across eight states and two Canadian provinces, and welcoming more than 53,000 visitors aboard. Along the way, 22 guest crew experiences offered the public the chance to sail and live aboard Maryland’s iconic tall ship.
Highlights from the season included celebrating Maryland Day Weekend in Annapolis, hosting a SpinSheet Social, celebrating Orioles Opening Day in Baltimore, and participating in the Tall Ships Challenge: Great Lakes. During that tour, Pride II sailed on all five Great Lakes including to America’s most inland port, Duluth, MN.
Upon returning from the Lakes, we also hosted the inaugural Homecoming and
Historic Swimmers Welcome in partnership with internationally acclaimed longdistance swimmer and Swimmable Cities Sports Ambassador Katie Pumphrey, with special guests Senate President Bill Ferguson, Johns W. Hopkins, executive director of Baltimore Heritage, and City Councilman Mark Parker.
Back home in Baltimore, Pride II hosted the second annual Sailabration: Sailing Traditions in Ink Festival in Fells Point, welcoming more than 1500 people for a free, family-friendly celebration of Baltimore’s sailors, artists, and maritime traditions.
We also had the privilege to host two incredible community organizations aboard for special sails in the Baltimore Harbor: Association of Guatemalans Without Borders and Watershed Defend-
ers. With Spanish-language materials and a professional interpreter, guests explored Pride’s history and Baltimore’s maritime heritage in a fully accessible way. For many, it was their first time aboard a tall ship, and the joy on deck was contagious. These experiences reflect the spirit of Maryland’s upcoming America 250th anniversary: inclusive, engaging, and honoring the contributions of all Marylanders.
Following a line honors finish in the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race, Pride II continued to Cambridge, MD, for the first annual Sailing the Choptank Through Ebony Eyes, a free celebration of Maryland’s maritime and African American heritage. This special MD250 event honored Vincent O. Leggett, Admiral of the Chesapeake, and brought together the Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation, Pride of Baltimore II, and local partners for a day of exhibits, music, food, and community connection along the Choptank River.
The season concluded at the Sultana Downrigging Weekend Festival in Chestertown, one of the East Coast’s premier tall ship gatherings. Following the close of the Sultana Downrigging Festival, Pride of Baltimore II returned home to Baltimore to begin her own downrigging and winter maintenance season.
Each fall, the crew carefully takes down and stores everything from sails and spars to safety gear and the ship’s beloved small boat, Chasseur. A protective winter cover is installed over the deck, creating a sheltered workspace for the months ahead. Throughout the winter, the crew restores and maintains every element that keeps Pride II sailing strong: refinishing rigging blocks, replacing worn lines, sanding spars, and applying fresh coats of paint and varnish.
This year’s work also includes an exciting shoreside project: repairing and refurbishing the Pride of Baltimore Memorial, in preparation for its reinstatement and rededication at Rash Field in 2026.
All of this effort ensures that Pride II will be ready to set sail again in early April and poised to represent Maryland during the America250 commemorations up and down the East Coast. We can’t wait to share more about the big plans we’re charting for 2026—stay tuned as the journey continues!
Learn more at pride2.org
The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water has launched two new boating safety microcourses to help sailors and powerboaters focus on issues important to safe navigation. Aids to Navigation Basics and Nighttime Boating Basics are the latest in a series of short microcourse offerings that can fit into any sailor’s busy schedule.
Aids to Navigation Basics is designed to help boaters understand the meaning of basic buoys and markers. The course also reinforces the importance of maintaining a proper lookout and consulting an up-todate chart to navigate safely.
Sailors who enjoy night sailing or plan to participate in an overnight race may be especially interested in the Nighttime Boating Basics course, which addresses operating after dark when navigation can be more challenging. The course will cover how to prepare for evening outings, comply with boating regulations for reduced
visibility, and recognize the proper use of navigation lights on recreational vessels.
“Annual U.S. Coast Guard statistics have shown that understanding Aids to Navigation (AToN) and the challenges of nighttime boating are perennial issues for boat operators,” said Ted Sensenbrenner, director of boating safety at BoatUS Foundation. “We’re excited to bridge the gap to help address operator inattention and improper lookout, which are some of the leading causes of boating accidents.”
The interactive courses, which can be completed in less than 30 minutes, include engaging video quizzes, simulations, and modules that help enrollees learn navigational basics. Following course completion, boaters will be equipped with essential tools to navigate waterways confidently and responsibly.
The courses were produced under a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund administered by the U.S.
Coast Guard to benefit national public boating safety. While the new courses do not meet any state education requirements, they provide additional in-depth learning opportunities that complement the information in the BoatUS Foundation’s NASBLA-approved free online boating safety course, which satisfies boating safety education requirements in 37 states.
To sign up for the new free microcourses or other online offerings, visit boatus.org/courses
Last month, Maryland representatives joined officials from around the Mid-Atlantic region to put forth a revised Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement that includes firm timelines, required pollution reductions, and ambitious, yet reachable goals for improving the health of the Bay. It is expected to be formally approved in December.
This voluntary Agreement is an important commitment to the people of Maryland and the future of the Chesapeake Bay. It represents the region’s shared vision to improve wildlife populations, reduce water pollutants, and restore habitat to improve Chesapeake Bay health, residents’ quality of life, and economic opportunities.
The updated Agreement ensures the Bay partnership of states, Washington, DC, and the federal government will continue to move forward for at least the next 15 years. Maintaining this partnership was among the most important goals for Mary-
# One of biggest achievements of the last Agreement was the successful goal to restore oyster habitats and populations in 10 tidal rivers in Maryland and Virginia by 2025.
land during the agreement’s negotiations.
The Bay’s watershed spans 64,000 square miles, and Maryland’s portion only covers about 14 percent of the area. Every drop of rain from just south of New York’s Finger Lakes to Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains runs into the Chesapeake Bay. The partnership remains the best way to ensure long-term progress is made in the face of constantly shifting political priorities.
The 2014 Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement—the fourth since 1983—had a target completion date of 2025. As of today, Bay watershed states have met that agreement’s goals for oyster restoration, fish passage, new public access sites, and
sustainable fisheries. Bay jurisdictions are on pace to reach many other goals, including protecting more than 2 million acres of land, with Maryland announcing last year it had conserved more than 30 percent of its land area—the first state in the region to do so. The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science’s annual Chesapeake Bay and Watershed report card has found that overall Bay health has been improving since 2017.
While Maryland is on pace to reach its nutrient pollution reduction goals, other partnership goals such as those for watershed-wide pollution reductions and wetland restoration will not be reached by the end-of-the-year deadline.
The updated Agreement represents an opportunity to recalibrate those missed goals and how we work to achieve them based on the latest science. The revised Agreement sets a 2040 deadline for most of the outcomes with a midpoint check-in in 2033. It commits states to reducing nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment pollution to levels recommended by the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load, or the legally enforceable pollution diet, by 2040. The updated Agreement also has a streamlined governance structure and includes a new agriculture advisory committee to bring more of the farming community into the effort.
The Chesapeake Bay Program partners also committed to goals for supporting clean water, healthy landscapes, and engaged communities, as well as thriving habitat, fisheries, and wildlife. These will be met through measurable projects to restore and enhance wetlands, improve animal habitats, protect land, involve local decision-makers, improve public access to natural areas, and bolster environmental education and workforce development.
To learn more about the revised Watershed Agreement, visit dnr.maryland.gov.
As Sail Beyond Cancer Annapolis brings another meaningful sailing season to a close, organizers reflect with gratitude on the lives touched, the hope shared, and the incredible support from our community. This year, the organization proudly completed 137 sails and provided moments of peace, connection, and renewal on the Chesapeake Bay to 697 individuals facing cancer and their loved ones. These experiences were made possible by our dedicated volunteers, who contributed more than 2000 hours of service—their passion and empathy remain at the heart of what we do.
After years of growth and deepening roots in the Chesapeake community, the organization is charting a new course with a new name: Sails of Hope Chesapeake. While the name has evolved, the heart of the mission remains the same: providing sailing experiences that offer hope, healing, renewal, and joy to those being challenged by cancer.
# Photo courtesy of Sails of Hope Chesapeake
Looking ahead, the nonprofit’s leadership is filled with enthusiasm for what’s on the horizon. With rising demand, expanding partnerships, and a remarkable volunteer community, they are already planning to increase capacity as they move into the 2026 season and will continue to offer free, private sails for those navigating cancer treatment, offering a peaceful
escape on the water for even more families across the region.
“Thank you to our volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters for believing in this mission and sailing alongside us,” said executive director Christine Cotter.
If you would like to nominate someone navigating cancer for a sail in the 2026 season, please fill out a nomination form at SailsofHopeChesapeake.org.
The 2025 Fish For a Cure (F4AC) Tournament, Paul C. Dettor Captain’s Challenge, and Shore Party on November 1 raised a recordbreaking $1.2 million, and to date the event has raised more than $7.7 million to support the Cancer Survivorship Program at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Geaton and JoAnn Decesaris Cancer Institute.
Once again, Team FishTalk/ PropTalk was a proud sponsor and participant in this annual fall event. Our team broke a personal fundraising record with a total of $16,126 raised which put us in 11th place in the Open League.
The top fundraiser in the Legends League (consisting of previous teams that have won the Captain’s Challenge) was Reel Counsel with a whopping $217,360 raised. Team LaxFish came in second with $160,952. Team Hullabaloo & The Kahan Center came in first place in the Open League with $59,079 raised.
Each year the F4AC Board recognizes a boat which embodies the fishing and fundraising spirit of the event, and this year the “Reel Deal” award went to Dr. Joe’s Crew (Blake Wood), who raised $57,955 putting them in second place in the Open League.
Some of the fishing categories were a little slim, with no eligible catch and release submissions via iAngler for the Grand Slam, Perch, or Invasive Species categories, but plenty of rockfish were caught and released throughout the day.
Bluewater Yacht Sales – Regulator (Chase Sutton) took first place with a catch and release rockfish stringer of 87 inches, followed by Chasin Tail (John Perrin) with an 86.25-inch stringer. Susan’s Boys/Fightin Fishin Lovin Everyday (Matt Baden) came in third place with 83.25 inches.
Thank you to everyone who participated in this event and helped Team FishTalk/ PropTalk surpass our fundraising goal! To learn more about the cause and how you can get involved next year, visit fishforacure.org.
St. John’s Lost at Sea (Ulysses) exhibition
The sea can be a merciless foe. It is also a poignant metaphor for the human psyche. This exhibition tells the story of a subject set adrift in more ways than one. Features sculpture, painting, and prints by nine artists from North America and Europe. Free. Open Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays, 2 to 7:30 p.m. at St. John’s College in Annapolis.
baltimore christmas Village
Experience the charm of an authentic German Christmas Market in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The whole festival grounds are free to the public on every single weekday the event is running. To enter the heated festival tent on the charging weekends, a Season Pass needs to be purchased at the entrance of the tent. Kids under 18 are free of charge, adults over 18 pay $ 5, which is good for the entire season.
holidays at piney point Lighthouse museum
Come enjoy guided tours for all ages of the lighthouse and museum. The Keeper’s Quarters and museum will be decorated for the holidays and special festive exhibits will be available. Piney Point, MD. Free family open house on November 30.
Lights on the bay
A two-mile scenic drive with sparkling lights and festive vibes. $23 per car. At Sandy Point State Park. Benefits SPCA of Anne Arundel County.
1
cApcA members Fall business meeting and dinner
5 p.m. at the Annapolis Elks Lodge in Edgewater, MD. Enjoy an evening of connection and engagement with fellow members for just $15 per person. Meeting also available on zoom. CAPCA members only.
4 midnight madness in downtown Annapolis
Stroll along Main Street, West Street, Maryland Avenue, State Circle, Market Space, and Dock Street from 4 p.m. until midnight to support local businesses. Find entertainment, holiday decorations, refreshments, and sales.
5-6
A dickens of a christmas Experience historic Chestertown, MD’s, Victorian holiday extravaganza! This two-day event includes entertainment, home tours, food, book talks, merchandise, and more.
5 - Jan 10
christmas on the creek
A month-long celebration of lights, music, food, and family activities in Historic Oxford, MD.
6
25th Alexandria holiday boat parade of Lights Parade starts at 5:30 p.m., dockside festivities 2 to 8 p.m. at the Old Town Alexandria Waterfront in Virginia.
6
76th Annual cambridgedorchester county
christmas parade
Lineup at 4 p.m., parade at 5 p.m. This year’s theme is “Surfing into Christmas.” The Parade route begins at Long Wharf, progresses down High Street, turns left onto Poplar, straight down Race Street, and ends at Washington Street by Haddaways.
6
Alexandria Scottish christmas Walk parade
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Old Town Alexandria, VA. Dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans parade through the streets of Old Town, joined by pipe and drum bands, as well as terriers and hounds, community groups and more to celebrate the city’s Scottish heritage.
6 bear creek Lighted boat parade On Bear Creek off the Patapsco River. Presented by the Bear Creek Sailing Association. Stayed tuned for more details on Facebook.
6
bohemia river boaters Lighted boat parade
5 to 7 p.m. in Chesapeake City, MD. View From Pell Gardens, Chesapeake Inn, or either side of the canal. The boats will leave from the basin by Chesapeake Inn at roughly 5 p.m.
6 holiday boat parade and party at the Wharf
5 to 8 p.m. activities throughout The Wharf in Washington, DC, including a beer garden, s’mores, ornament decorating, karaoke, live music, visits with Santa, and more. 7 p.m. boats arrive in the Washington Channel. Fireworks finale at 8 p.m.
6 Queen Anne’s county Watermen’s Association crab basket and tree Lighting Vendor Fair 12 to 6 p.m. Tree lighting at 6 p.m. at Fishermen’s Crab Deck in Grasonville, MD. Handmade artisans and crafters, hot apple cider and cocoa, kids’ activities and face painting, food trucks, and more.
6
rock hall tree Lighting
Santa arrives by boat at the Rock Hall Bulkhead at 6 p.m. and arrives on Main Street (approx. 6:30 p.m.) for the tree lighting.
6
Yorktown Lighted boat parade
Pre-parade festivities start at 6 p.m. at the Yorktown, VA, waterfront and include caroling around illuminated braziers, a musical performance by the Fifes and Drums of York Town, and complimentary hot cider from the Boy Scouts of America. At 7 p.m. the boats will finish out the evening as they make their way down the river in a dazzling display of lights.
11 midnight madness in downtown Annapolis Stroll along Main Street, West Street, Maryland Avenue, State Circle, Market Space, and Dock Street from 4 p.m. until midnight to support local businesses. Find entertainment, holiday decorations, refreshments, and sales.
12-14 christmas in St. michaels
The event’s mission is to provide resources to help local nonprofit groups enhance the quality of life for the residents of the Bay Hundred community. Gingerbread house competition and display, marketplace, breakfast with Santa, Talbot Street Parade (Saturday at 10:30 a.m.), Lighted Boat Parade (Saturday at 6 p.m.), and more.
13
43rd Annual eastport Yacht club Lights parade
Dozens of boats in all shapes and sizes covered in thousands of colored lights parade through the Annapolis Harbor for two magical hours. This year’s parade will feature new prize categories designed to welcome first-time and emerging skippers while still celebrating creativity at all levels. Skipper application is now live! Proceeds from the event benefit the Eastport Yacht Club Foundation.
13 poplar hall christmas parade of horses and market
One of the most beautiful Victorian towns in the country will be the home of an equestrian Christmas wonderland. Horse parade begins at 10 a.m. and Christmas market begins at 11 a.m., along with other events in Chesapeake City, MD.
14 deale parade of Lights
Organizers are encouraging everyone to get to the parade viewing location by 5 p.m. due to high traffic; parade will start at 5:30 p.m. on Rockhold Creek in Deale, MD. Stay tuned for updates on Facebook.
18 midnight madness in Annapolis
Stroll along Main Street, West Street, Maryland Avenue, State Circle, Market Space, and Dock Street from 4 p.m. until 11 p.m. to support local businesses. Find entertainment, holiday decorations, refreshments, and sales.
December Racing through Dec 14
AYc Frostbite racing Series 1 Hosted by Annapolis YC.
7 hYc Gaboon race
Hosted by Hampton YC.
1
First day hikes
Part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day hundreds of free, guided hikes will be organized in all 50 states. Find a hike near you at stateparks.org/special-programs/ first-day-hikes
christmas on the creek
A month-long celebration of lights, music, food, and family activities in Historic Oxford, MD.
8 the American revolution and the Fate of the World: An electrifying Global history of a not-So-Local Lecture by author and historian Richard Bell in the Van Lennep Auditorium at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels, MD, 5:30 p.m. (available virtually as well).
Amm Winter Lecture Series Thursday evenings at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Topics TBD. Preregistration is strongly suggested as space is limited. $10 per person at the door – first come, first served. Available both virtually and in-person.
29 Watermen’s Story Swap
Join local author and emcee
Brent Lewis, as well as a panel of local watermen, for a lively evening of stories of the past and present drawn from lives spent on the water harvesting from the Bay. 5:30 p.m. in the Van Lennep Auditorium, Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels, MD.
Nominate an Exceptional Volunteer by December 10!
The SpinSheet Volunteer of the Year 2025
Have you ever noticed that outstanding volunteers don’t always like to talk about themselves? They’re too busy giving back to their communities to brag about it! So, let’s give them credit publicly by sharing their good deeds with the sailing community.
Who do you know who dedicates their free time to an organization in our waterfront community? If you know of an exceptional volunteer on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries—including the Potomac at Washington, DC, and Alexandria, VA—nominate them for the 2025 SpinSheet Volunteer of the Year Award by December 10.
We are open to all types of volunteerism: planting trees, picking up marine debris, monitoring water quality, helping with community sailing or boatbuilding programs, sailing or fishing with veterans, raising money for your favorite waterkeeper organization, yacht club foundation fundraiser planning, boat restoration, and more.
To nominate a volunteer, email editor@spinsheet.com by December 10. Include the person’s name, the volunteer organization, and why you think their volunteerism is outstanding. SpinSheet staffers will vote on a winner to be announced in our January 2026 issue. We will also make a donation to the winner’s favorite nonprofit organization.
1 AYc hangover bowl
Hosted by Annapolis YC.
1 dana dillon new Year’s madness race
Hosted by Hampton YC and Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.
4 - Mar 29
iLcA Frostbite racing
Hosted by Severn Sailing Association, Annapolis, MD.
Marine Corps veteran Amy Pantoja, who sails out of Annapolis, lives aboard her 48-foot sailboat and is an active volunteer with Valhalla Sailing as well as a member of its board of directors. Passionate about helping women veterans, Amy is enthusiastic about teaching others to sail so they too can enjoy the freedom and healing the sport has given her.
Here Amy shares in her own words how she started sailing and her big plans for the future.
Opening the door to a new chapter
Amy: After parenting alone for 19 years, once my daughter was grown and on her own, I suddenly felt lost. I had no identity, no purpose. On top of that, I never truly felt like I fit in anywhere—not as a veteran, and especially not as a female veteran.
I didn’t have hobbies, and, honestly, I didn’t even know what I enjoyed anymore. I had always dreamed of sailing, maybe even sailing around the world one day, but I had no idea where to start. I also wanted to get back into diving, something that had once brought me peace and joy.
So, I did just that. I went out, renewed my dive certification (and added a few extras), and learned to sail. I started with SailTime and the First Sail Workshop at the Annapolis Sailboat Show. While I was inside the show, I discovered Valhalla, a veteran sailing organization, and started sailing with them. Before long, it was rare to find a Valhalla boat leaving the dock without me on it.
Through Valhalla, I was introduced to Warrior Sailing, another veteran group, where I earned certifications and took a systems class.
Sailing and diving have both literally and figuratively saved my life. They’ve helped me rediscover who I am, given me purpose again, and opened the door to an incredible new chapter filled with adventure, healing, and freedom.
My favorite position while racing is doing bow. There’s no place I’d rather be. While I’m able to trim, run main, work mast and pit, or even take the helm, I’ll always choose bow when given the chance. The bow is where action meets adrenaline. It’s the front line: the first to meet the spray, the waves, and the wind. Every maneuver happens fast, whether it’s setting and dropping sails, timing spinnaker hoists, or calling the line at the start. You have to stay sharp, balanced, and fearless.
There’s nothing quite like standing at the edge of the boat, the sea rushing beneath you, knowing your precision and timing can make or break a perfect set. It’s intense, chaotic, and completely exhilarating. For me, the bow isn’t just a position; it’s where I feel most alive.
Women’s program at Valhalla
Many women veterans struggle to find spaces where they feel safe and included after leaving the military. Too often, veteran programs are male dominated, leaving women feeling unseen or unheard. I wanted to change that.
Find more articles, new sailor profiles, and videos at StartSailingnow.com
I wanted to create a space on the water where women veterans can breathe, connect, and heal—a space built on trust, understanding, and calm. With Valhalla I’ve introduced a Ladies Night instructional sail, and on the racing front, this year I brought 24 women, including 12 veterans, in three boats to the Herrington Harbour Women’s Regatta. I also want to create more cruising opportunities for women, because when we sail together, walls come down. Women rediscover confidence, share laughter, and find peace in the rhythm of the wind and waves. For many, it’s the first time they’ve truly felt supported in a veteran community. It’s more than sailing; it’s about reclaiming strength, belonging, and joy.
Plans to explore the world
Next year, I plan to lift anchor and set sail to explore the world, living the cruising lifestyle for as long as my body and health allow. Earlier this year, I took a big step toward that dream, purchasing, through Warrior Sailing, a Beneteau Oceanis 46.1 and moving aboard. Now I am living at anchor to learn the rhythms of life at sea.
From tropical islands to the icy edges of Greenland and Antarctica, I can’t wait to experience it all—the freedom, the challenge, and the quiet beauty that only the ocean can offer.
New sailors or those returning to sailing may want to seek instruction or coaching at a sailing school or club. Many such organizations exist on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. They offer certifications for beginners, returning sailors hoping to brush up on seamanship skills, cruisers seeking bareboat chartering or navigation experience, and racers wanting to hone their skills. The following is a sampling of schools and clubs that offer sailing instruction on the Chesapeake. For a more complete list of schools offering certifications outside this region, visit US Sailing or American Sailing.
This journey isn’t just about travel; it’s about living fully, embracing adventure, and proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams, no matter where they lead.
• Annapolis Sailing School annapolissailing.com
• Annapolis Naval Sailing Association ansa.org
• Blue Water Sailing School bwss.com
• Captain In You Sailing Schools, Inc. captaininyou.com
• DC Sail dcsail.org
• Gratitude Sailing Institute gratitudesailing.com
• J/World Annapolis jworldannapolis.com
• SailTime sailtime.com/annapolis
• Sail Solomons sailsi.com
• West River Sailing Club learn2sailwrsc.com
By Pamela Tenner Kellett
Late autumn on the Chesapeake Bay offers opportunities to observe and appreciate the avian fauna that migrate to the Chesapeake from the Arctic breeding grounds. The common loon (Gavia immer) is one of my favorites to make an appearance. Arriving in September, these duck-like sea birds stick around through December and may take a short migratory hop to the Outer Banks before returning to the Bay in February. Reaching top speeds of 70 miles per hour, these shorter journeys are ac-
complished quickly. An ice-free winter can allow the common loon to remain in the Bay.
Most sailors may be more familiar with the striking black and white plumage of the loon in the breeding season as well as the iconic image of the female swimming and diving with her fluffy chicks on her back. Loons in winter plumage are more difficult to spot in the gray, frigid waters of the Bay. A gray head, back, and neck with white on their throat, cheeks, and breast make the common loon
well camouflaged. Floating low in the water with a sleek body and thick neck, they can be difficult to spot and are often mistaken for great crested cormorants. However, their straight bill which they hold horizontally is a distinguishing characteristic. Generally, they are silent on their wintering grounds but if you are lucky, you may hear their iconic yodel.
Common loons will hunt while swimming on the surface with their heads in the water searching for fish. They are particularly fond of oily, nutrient-rich menhaden. Once sighted, they will dive after their prey with their powerful webbed feet. Awkward on land, common loons are strong swimmers diving up to 250 feet (obviously not in the Chesapeake!) and staying underwater for up to five minutes. The extra weight of their solid bones combined with their streamlined bodies and legs that are set back for power paddling aid them on the deep dives. They feed constantly during the day and sometimes join up with other loons to herd fish.
A winter molt prevents them from flying and diving, so the rich waters of the Chesapeake allow them to fatten up before the molt. After the winter molt, they will once again be identifiable in their recognizable black and white plumage. By April they will journey north to breed, leaving the Chesapeake behind for another season.
It’s likely you’re reading this in the first week of December, and if you have not yet reached your 100 on-water day goal, the pressure is on! For those who may still hit 100, we’re cheering you on. And for others who know they cannot hit their goal in 2025, we ask you this: wasn’t it fun to try? Do you ever regret a day on the water? We think not. We’re proud of all of you for trying! To learn more about the SpinSheet Century Club, visit spinsheet.com/100-days
Every year since we started the Century Club, there’s a “first,” and sometimes it’s something we’d never imagined… Meet Isla. She has only lived on this earth for 166 days and already has reached 100 days on the water, a new record for youngest Centurion.
Her mom, Katie, says, “We live up in Maine and try to get on the water most days after work and cruise on weekends and vacations. We are blessed with a very easy baby that loves the motion of the ocean to put her to sleep!” She adds, “We kept tally in her baby book, but my husband is a DelMarVa native and wanted it in SpinSheet for her first year.”
The photo shows Bob and his son Dave on his big day, sporting their Mount Gay Rum caps. Bob says, “Day number 100 is in the books! What has become our annual practice, I hit the SpinSheet Century Club mark with my son, Dave, onboard. We sailed our Aloha Spirit out into the Patuxent River, trying to find the breeze. It helps to have friends, and we sure needed them as we experienced a low-battery voltage problem when trying to get the engine restarted out in the river. I made a call to (fellow Century Club member) Steven Birchfield and before long Jimmy Yurko pulled up alongside with a jump start. When we got the engine started, we just let it run while we sailed until the wind finally died for the day. All in all, we had friends with high volts and took lemons and still made lemonade!”
Even if their boats are winterized and on the hard, sailors still gather along the waterfront over the holidays to celebrate. Find festivities for the whole family on these pages. Be sure to check the event websites for time or weather-related changes and details. Happy holidays!
Lighted Boat
Nov. 29: Middle River Lighted Boat Parade
The Mid-Atlantic’s largest lighted boat parade and almost the largest in the USA! To enter: text your name, address, boat type, and size to (410) 463-2686. Stay tuned for updates on Facebook: facebook.com/mrboatparade. The captain’s package includes several gift cards from local businesses.
Dec. 6: Bohemia River Boaters Lighted Boat Parade
5 to 7 p.m. in Chesapeake City, MD. View the parade from Pell Gardens, Chesapeake Inn, or either side of the canal. The boats will leave from the basin by Chesapeake Inn at roughly 5 p.m.
Dec. 6: Pasadena Boat Parade
Launch party 3 p.m. to close at Broken Oar Bar & Grill; $5 cover, kids are free (proceeds go to the fearless captains and first mates). There will be Christmas music, Santa with treats for the kids, and festive bar staff will have spiked hot chocolate for the grownups. Any boaters interested in participating in the boat parade should email Keegan Fisher: keegan.brokenoar@gmail. com
Dec. 6: Baltimore Lighted Boat Parade
5:45-8 p.m. The boats originate from the Anchorage Marina in Canton and slowly make their way along the waterfront towards the Inner Harbor, generally passing by Fells Point around 6 p.m. baltimore.org
Dec. 6: Bear Creek Lighted Boat Parade
On Bear Creek off the Patapsco River. Presented by the Bear Creek Sailing Association. Stay tuned for more details on Facebook.
Dec. 13: St. Michaels Lighted Boat Parade
This event is part of a larger weekend celebration, Christmas in St. Michaels (see more details right). The parade kicks off at 6 p.m. around St. Michaels Harbor. Visit christmasinstmichaels.org and click to the events tab to register and check out a map of the parade route.
Dozens of boats in all shapes and sizes covered in thousands of colored lights parade through the Annapolis Harbor for two magical hours. This year’s parade will feature new prize categories designed to welcome first-time and emerging skippers while still celebrating creativity at all levels. Proceeds from the event benefit the Eastport Yacht Club Foundation. To register, find a list of spectator locations, and more visit eyclightsparade.org.
Organizers are encouraging everyone to get to the parade viewing location by 5 p.m. due to high traffic. The parade will start at 5:30 p.m. on Rockhold Creek. Stay tuned for updates on Facebook: facebook.com/dealemdparadeoflights
Nov. 22-Dec. 24: Baltimore Christmas Village
Experience the charm of an authentic German Christmas Market in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The whole festival grounds are free to the public on every single weekday the event is running. To enter the heated festival tent on the charging weekends, a Season Pass needs to be purchased at the entrance of the tent. Kids under 18 are free of charge, adults over 18 pay $5, which is good for the entire season.
Nov. 23- Jan. 1: Lights by the Bay
A two-mile scenic drive with sparkling lights and festive vibes. $23 per car. At Sandy Point State Park. Benefits SPCA of Anne Arundel County: lightsonthebaymd.org
Nov. 30-Dec. 31 Holidays at Piney Point Lighthouse Museum
Enjoy guided tours for all ages. The Keeper’s Quarters and museum will be decorated for the holidays and special festive exhibits will be available. Free family open house on November 30: facebook.com/1836light
Dec. 4, 11, and 18: Midnight Madness in Downtown Annapolis
Stroll along Main Street, West Street, Maryland Avenue, State Circle, Market Space, and Dock Street from 4 p.m. until midnight (until 11 p.m. on the 18th) to support local businesses. Find entertainment, holiday decorations, refreshments, and sales: downtownannapolispartnership.org
Dec. 5-6: A Dickens of a Christmas
Experience historic Chestertown, MD’s, Victorian holiday extravaganza! This twoday event includes entertainment, home tours, food, book talks, merchandise, and more. And don’t forget to come dressed up!
Dec. 5 - Jan. 10: Christmas on the Creek
A month-long celebration of lights, music, food, and family activities in historic Oxford, MD. Events include the lighting of the dock trees on Dec. 6, the lighting of the Oxford-Bellevue Ferry, and more.
Dec. 6: Cambridge-Dorchester County Christmas Parade
The lineup begins at 4 p.m., followed by the parade at 5 p.m. This year’s theme is “Surfing into Christmas.” The Parade route begins at Long Wharf, progresses down High Street, turns left onto Poplar, straight down Race Street, and ends at Washington Street by Haddaways.
Dec. 6: Rock Hall Tree Lighting
Santa arrives by boat at the Rock Hall bulkhead at 6 p.m. and arrives on Main Street (approx. 6:30 p.m.) for the tree lighting.
Dec. 6: Queen Anne’s Watermen’s Association Crab Basket and Tree Lighting
Vendor Fair 12 to 6 p.m. Tree lighting at 6 p.m. at Fishermen’s Crab Deck in Grasonville, MD. Handmade artisans and crafters, hot apple cider and cocoa, kids’ activities and face painting, food trucks, and more. Find more details on Facebook and at kentnarrowsmd.com
Dec. 6-7: Baltimore’s Most Festive Weekend
Holiday shopping, festive lighted boats, and beloved holiday characters will all converge to make this Baltimore weekend the merriest and brightest of the whole season. Holiday Makers Market at Light St. pavilion, family weekend at the Christmas Village at West Shore Park, Fells Point Old Tyme Christmas on Saturday, and more.
Dec. 12-14: Christmas in St. Michaels
The mission of Christmas in St. Michaels is to provide resources to help local nonprofit groups enhance the quality of life for the residents of the Bay Hundred community. Events include a gingerbread house competition and display, marketplace, breakfast with Santa, Talbot Street Parade (Saturday at 10:30 a.m.), Lighted Boat Parade (Saturday at 6 p.m.), and more: christmasinstmichaels.org
Dec. 13: Poplar Hall Christmas Parade of Horses and Market
Chesapeake City, one of the most beautiful Victorian towns in the country, will be the home of an equestrian Christmas wonderland. From 9-9:45 a.m. say hello to the parade riders and their horses at the Chesapeake City Elementary School while they’re preparing for the parade, which begins at 10 a.m. Starting at 11 a.m. the Poplar Hall team will transform Pell Gardens into a unique all handmade, old world style Christmas Market, plus a concert and more events.
Dec. 6: Holiday Boat Parade and Party at The Wharf
This free event features over 60 beautifully decorated boats parading up the Washington Channel (beginning at 7 p.m.), as well as fun landside holiday activities including hot toddies, live music, ornament decorating, holiday karaoke, family photos with Santa, fireworks (8 p.m.), a 45-foot illuminated Christmas tree on District Pier, and more. 5 to 8 p.m. at The Wharf in Washington, DC.
Dozens of brightly lit boats will cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline beginning at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy dockside festivities in Waterfront Park from 2 to 8 p.m. including a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company, food, activities, and more. This event is part of Alexandria’s biggest holiday weekend. Learn more at visitalexandria.com.
6: Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade
Pre-parade festivities start at 6 p.m. at the Yorktown, VA, waterfront and include caroling around illuminated braziers, a musical performance by the Fifes and Drums of York Town, and complimentary hot cider from the Boy Scouts of America. At 7 p.m. the boats will finish out the evening as they make their way down the river in a dazzling display of lights.
The parade takes place at the Downtown Hampton waterfront and is visible from anywhere along the Hampton River. Stay tuned for more details at hampton.gov
Dec.: Yorktown Celebrates Christmas
Events throughout the month in historic Yorktown, VA, including the Christmas Tree Lighting December 5 at Riverwalk Landing, Christmas Market on Main December 6-7, Mistletoe Market December 13, and more.
Dec. 6: Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Old Town Alexandria, VA. Dozens of Scottish clans dressed in colorful tartans parade through the streets of Old Town, joined by pipe and drum bands, as well as terriers and hounds, community groups, and more to celebrate the city’s Scottish heritage.
For a sight you have to see to believe, head to Alexandria’s waterfront between BARCA Pier and Founders Park on Christmas Eve to witness Santa and his friends gliding along the Potomac River: visitalexandria.com.
For more great gift ideas, scan this QR code or visit spinsheet.com/ gifts-for-sailors
Dritek Your Lifestyle
Removing plastic from our oceans, one gift at a time. bitterendprovisions.com
Wood, Wind and Water: A Story of the Opera House Cup Race Of Nantucket continues to be one of the most beautiful photography books devoted to sailing.
“. . . a unique classic deserving of ongoing mention and recommendation for both art and nautical collectors.”
- Book Watch Review
Photographs by Anne T. Converse, Text by Carolyn M. Ford. 10”x12” Hardbound book; 132 pages with 85 full page color photographs. To order the book and view additional photographs, visit: annetconverse.com
Buldano
Turkish towels are a must-have for every boater. Made from organic Turkish cotton, they’re ultra-lightweight, super absorbent, and dry fast—no more heavy, damp towels cluttering your boat. Their compact design saves valuable storage space, while the quickdry weave keeps them fresh, even on long days at sea. Elevate your boating experience with the towel designed for the water. Buldano.com
Marine-grade 7-in-1 multi-tool built for boaters and outdoor use. Features a serrated blade, marlin spike, shackle key, webbing cutter, spanner, screwdriver, and bottle opener. One-hand access, non-slip grip, and titanium-coated steel for corrosion resistance. Comes with a carry case. Reliable, compact, and ready for any condition. Reg. $100, Sale $70. Wholesale pricing available. categorysports.com
Designed for boaters who don’t have time to wait, our UV-resistant adhesive and flexible patches bond to PVC or Hypalon, wet or dry. Keep it on board and get back to fun in minutes. Whether it’s a leaky SUP, dinghy, or towable tube, Final Fix seals it tight, FAST. fawcettboat.com
Children’s Books about the Chesapeake Bay It’s never too early to start reading to your child. The beautiful illustrations in Award-Winning International Children’s Author, Cindy Freland’s, books on the animals of the Chesapeake Bay will mystify them as you read. The series of ten books builds an appreciation for the environment in an entertaining way while stimulating curiosity in the unique creatures that thrive there. Create precious memories while sharing special time learning about the Bay. Order books today at cbaykidsbooks.com
Designed for offshore or coastal adventures, this jacket keeps you dry and comfortable in any weather with HELLY TECH® Performance technology. Breathable yet protective, it blocks wind and spray without weighing you down.
Thoughtful details—like an adjustable hood, high collar, and secure pockets—make it the perfect piece for any day on the water. Available in men’s and women’s. www.hellyhansen.com
LakeEriewx Marine weather 3-Part webinar Series
Understanding and avoiding thunderstorms on the Chesapeake Bay with Mark Thornton. March 12, 19, and 26, 7-8:30 p.m. Series: $90, $85 if booked before 12/31/2025 with discount code Spinsheet-Save5 spinsheet.com/weather-webinar
The 2026 Annual Chesapeake poster by Nancy Hammond. Nancy Hammond is a painter who loves water life. Living waterside, she takes note of all things Chesapeake. “The challenge of capturing the Chesapeake is to catch the sweep of it while still catching the small bits.” says Hammond.Her work, including original art, limited edition prints, posters and gifts can be found online and on display at Nancy Hammond Editions located in Annapolis MD nancyhammondeditions.com
Gill Women’s Coastal JaCket
Be ready in any condition with the iconic OS3 Coastal Jacket, designed with 88% recycled fabric to help reduce our impact on the environment. This jacket will keep you dry and comfortable out on the water or inland with our exclusive XPLORE® 2-layer fabric.
This jacket features a fully lined hi-vis hood with 2-way adjustment system, high cut thermal collar, adjustable cuffs and taped seams so you can feel confident and protected on every adventure.
www.team1newport.com
From the beginning in 1928, our founding Father, Capt. Phillip Van Horn Weems, a naval Captain, navigator and inventor, instilled the innovation and workmanship required to develop the industry standard of precision navigation tools that remains at the heart of all our products today. weems-plath.com
By Duncan Hood
The snap of our starboard side burgees was a portent of what was to come. After three years of virtually no wind, the 2025 running of the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race (October 16) was predicted to be a strong 30-plus-knot northerly promising a fast trip down the 127mile racecourse from the Bay Bridge in Annapolis to Thimble Shoals light in Norfolk, VA. Dodging and tacking before the start in 20-knot winds, onboard Adventurer we began the morning with a double-reefed main, main stays’l, and fore stays’l. The intention was to cross the line on a beam reach at noon and head downwind, douse the working sails, and put up our spinnaker, which we did smartly. The boat took off like a struck racehorse.
This race is all about the tide: sail in deep water when the tide is favorable; go shallow when it’s foul. This can result in some pretty strange tracks, but that’s what’s happening. This year the race was followed online using Yellow Brick trackers. These trackers allow visitors to view boats’ positions in close to real time and compare their progress. Back on the racecourse, we were in the lead as we passed Cove Point in record time with our spinnaker pulling like a jet engine. Slowly through the day, however, the winds began to increase from 20 knots. As the water boiled on our bow, the boat began to roll ominously from side to side, completing 20-degree oscillations to each side. With the spin lines pulled down to the midship rails, there was no problem of broaching, but rather, my fear began to build that we’d simply sail the
boat under. As we neared nightfall, a plan was made to douse the spinnaker and run with a poled-out genoa and a prevented main stays’l.
No sooner had we settled on a plan when a sharp “pop,” followed by all hell breaking loose up front, showed
that the guy line had actually parted, leaving our pole loose and flopping against the forestay and the spinnaker flying forward like a wayward pennant. An all-hands scramble ensued. Seated firmly on the cabin top, we began the chore
of getting the spin down hand-overhand and putting our other sails up in short order.
As our speed dropped from nineplus knots to seven under bare poles, schooners Woodwind and Tom Bombadil began to gain. The boat bounced and slewed as the waves lifted us from behind and twisted us like a 56-foot toy. A half an hour later, poled and prevented, Adventurer was on her way again and doing a very respectable eight knots as she schooned her way across the Potomac and down-bay through the night.
Dawn found us still boiling southward at eight knots. We had chosen to run with the wind, something schoo-
ners don’t do well, instead of gybing back and forth on broad reaches for the best speed with all sails full. This strategy actually saved us 29 miles on the racecourse when we compared our track to Woodwind’s.
We rounded Thimble Shoal Light at 4 a.m. on Friday morning, exhausted, thrilled, and satisfied that we had surmounted challenges as a team, and the experience had not found us lacking. We slipped a second-place finish into our pockets at the awards ceremony and left the stage smiling, knowing we’d be back again. Race time: 17 hours, 127 miles, average speed 7.5 knots. Find results for the whole fleet at GCBSR.org
By Erik Speer
This year, one of the fastest boats in the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race (GCBSR) hit a record speed of 17.3 knots! Yes, you read that right. Co-captain Jen Kaye, of the 74-foot vessel Woodwind, said it three times for emphasis, “17.3 knots!” But it wasn’t just the Woodwind; the entire schooner fleet raced downwind nearly all the way, fighting gusts up to 28 knots and heeling to the waterline. The winning boats boasted of only a few tacks each. Their recorded navigation showed almost straight lines down the Bay.
The race was close. After painstakingly sorting out the razor thin margins before corrected times, the Virginia, a 121-foot all-wooden schooner, of Hampton Roads, was claimed the top winner in the AA class. (The Pride of Baltimore II had been first to cross the finish line just one minute and 50 seconds ahead of Virginia, but the corrected time declared the latter in first place.)
As our reporting crew headed up the Elizabeth River to grab footage of the last leg at full sail, we were stopped by a small-craft advisory. We retreated and positioned ourselves to wait while the boats slowed down, passed, and kissed the docks in succession. The crews were worn and seasoned. Fighting upwards of almost 30knot gusts nearly all the way, they had been pushed to the limit each and every hour of the race. Some were frazzled. Most were tired. But all were smiling.
Captain Peter Carroll, the oldest captain in the race, has long encouraged budding sailors to take the journey down the Bay aboard the 42-foot Schooner Libertate This year, novice crew members Danielle Dunn from Tidewater and Lindsay Eckenrode from Baltimore were beaming. They said, “It was great!”
The GCBSR has a rich history and humble beginnings. The first race was in 1990 and highlighted the casual rivalry
Class AA: 1. Virginia, 2. Lady Maryland, 3. Pride of Baltimore II
Class A: 1. Tom Bombadil, 2. Adventurer (56), 3. Woodwind
Class B: 1. North Wind, 2. Resilient, 3. Libertate
Class C: 1. Norfolk Rebel, 2. Sea Hawk, 3. Farewell
Class N (non-schooner): 1. Bennu, 2. Tipsy, 3. Rohirrim
between Norfolk and Baltimore. Now, the race is used to promote Chesapeake Bay awareness and brings attention to the needs of the waterways.
The winner’s roster reads like a “Who’s Who” of returning vessels and demonstrates the old adage: “A great vessel can always handle more than the crew!”
Photos by Eric Moseson
Sultana Education Foundation hosted its annual Downrigging Weekend October 31 to November 2 in gorgeous fall weather. Up to 10,000 visitors came to historic Chestertown, MD, to see tall ships on the Chester River, tour and sail the ships, listen to bluegrass music, and enjoy seminars, children’s activities, and other fun events at the festival. All proceeds from the festival benefit the foundation’s environmental literacy programs and the other educational nonprofits participating in the festival. Learn more at downrigging.org
• 9 Tall ships
• 1094 Tall ship sailing tickets sold
• 8500 Tall ship deck tours given
• 36 Additional wooden boats on display
• 8-10,000 Visitors to Chestertown
• 12 Bluegrass bands
• 30 Hours of live music
• 2500 Music festival attendees
• 9 Food vendors
• 7000 Oysters shucked
• >1 pound trash generated in the village
By Bob Oppelt
I’ve been a Chesapeake Bay sailor for 13 years and have two British Virgin Islands (BVI) bareboat charters under my belt. In the summer of 2025, my wife Nicolette and I decided to travel to Italy to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. Realizing that Croatia, which was on my bucket list, was just a short flight across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, it seemed like a good opportunity to head there as well for a little messing around on boats. Nicolette agreed (so glad I married her)! Exploring the enchanting islands of Croatia proved to be a winning extension of our celebration.
Out of concern that sailing in Croatia would be a “different game” from the BVI experience, we decided to try a flotilla. The benefit is that you get flotilla leaders with vast sailing experience in the region. They’ll help you with reserving the vessel, formulating the itinerary, making marina reservations, docking, and more. We signed up for a week in Croatia’s most popular cruising ground, the Dalmatian Islands.
We invited our good friends Rob and Joanne to join us. They are
experienced bareboaters, and Rob is a leader with the USNA Command and Seamanship Training Squadron. We made a strong sailing team.
The documents required for a Croatia charter include the usual passports and such but also an FCC radio license and International Proficiency Certificate (IPC). For the radio license, I bought a study kit and took the exam in Annapolis. Both Rob and I have Merchant Marine credentials (i.e., a captain’s license), but when chartering in the Med, that license is not worth the paper it’s printed on. The IPC is a better indicator of bareboat training, because it can be awarded only after passing a bareboat charter course, which is offered through sailing associations such as American Sailing or US Sailing. I got the IPC in 2017.
We were all set with plane and hotel reservations when five weeks prior to sailing we received some surprising news: The flotilla had been cancelled! That left us with three options: scratch the whole adventure, take a captain onboard for a “flotilla” of one boat, or sail by ourselves. After talking with the
flotilla company, we felt confident that, with their help in planning it, we could sail the boat ourselves and follow the prescribed itinerary.
We arrived at Marina Baotić on Saturday, August 23. The marina lies only 15 minutes by car from the Split airport and a 20-minute walk from Trogir, a very popular UNESCO town. The marina is huge and serves as the home base for numerous charter companies. Our rental contract was with Croatia Yachting. Check-in and check-out days are typically hectic, and our arrival day proved no exception. They kept pushing back the hour that our boat would be ready…until the 5 p.m. deadline had passed. Many people get their boat and hightail it out of there that afternoon to a nearby island and pop open the champagne.
We had planned to head to Otok Solta (eight nautical miles away), where I had reservations at Martinis Marchi Marina. Unfortunately, while we waited for our boat at Baotić, Martinis Marchi called to report that they could no longer hold our reservation. So, we remained for the night in Marina Baotić with the plan to set sail very early the next morning.
Despite some issues with the air conditioning (we were lucky to have moderate temperatures) and a leaky air chamber on our dinghy, we set sail at 6 a.m. the next day on our beautiful (but “experienced”) Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 440 (2021). The 29-nm sail went well. We had blue skies and brisk wind on the beam—speed over ground reaching 8.2 knots. We swung into Rogačić Bay for a quick look at a military tunnel and headed into Vis, where we caught a mooring ball.
A dreamy evening
Vis is gorgeous, with its riva (waterfront), tower, and churches. Our main event there was dinner at a winery/restaurant called Konoba Magić. (A konoba serves traditional Croatian food.) The restaurant arranged a van to pick us up at the ferry terminal at 8 p.m. The cuisine at Konoba Magić mostly features the peka (bell), which is a lidded pot with hot coals piled on top. It’s the ultimate slow cooker, and our lamb did not disappoint. As for the wine, the red had an unusually high alcohol content of 15 percent. Good thing we had wellseasoned lamb! It was a dreamy evening, set among the vines in full moonlight.
was towing a jet ski, which made it hard to predict how much the swing rate/arc would be affected.
The next day, in light wind, we motored 10 nm to Komiža, on the western end of Otok Vis. Our early arrival allowed for an easy mooring ball pick-up. We secured the boat, went for a swim, and enjoyed happy hour while watching a parade of other boats vie for the remaining balls. An issue there seems to be that the balls are too close together. We definitely felt threatened by a nearby catamaran. Another one
TDinghy tie-up locations in town are not so apparent. After asking around, we finally found a spot at one end of a beach. Komiža is also gorgeous! We strolled the quaint streets while enjoying scrumptious gelato. Dinner was at Konoba Robinzon, which has a good local feel. Next time we’d probably dine on the more vibrant riva at Del Mare.
On Tuesday morning, we reported to the office of Alternatura in Komiža, a company
that offers various types of tours around Otok Vis. Per the original charter itinerary, we opted for a military tour of sites that were restricted during the Cold War. The four of us climbed into a blue Land Rover with our knowledgeable guide, Ivan. Over the next three hours, we bounced along boulder-strewn roads from one spooky Cold War relic to another. The sites included a subterranean command center at the top of a mountain and cannon bunkers down along the coast. If you visit Vis, you must take this tour to get a true perspective on the island. And it’s really fun!
hese sailboat charter companies specialize in sailing destinations such as the Chesapeake Bay, Northeast United States, Northwest United States, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and South Pacific. Contact them and book your charter dream vacation today!
That afternoon we motored our boat 23 nm along the south shore of Vis to the island of St. Klement, where we had reservations at ACI Marina Palmizana. It’s a prime base from which to visit Hvar, which lies just across the Pakleni Kanal. At Palmizana, my first-ever Med mooring went well, thanks to benign conditions… whew!
Regarding communicating with marinas on the approach: The ACI marinas require that you contact them by telephone or VHF17 at least 30 minutes prior to arrival. We dutifully obeyed that rule but usually heard nothing back—or just a couple of garbled words. You’ll have better success once you get closer. You may have to wait until you see a marinero on the sea wall with his radio in hand. I recommend bringing your personal hand-held VHF so you can converse from the cockpit. Waving and pointing will ultimately clinch the deal. There may be boats ahead of you, which means you’ll have to keep station. (Stern to the wind is best.)
One pleasant surprise at Marina Palmizana is the lovely harbor, just a few minutes’ walk over the hill, called Uvala Vinogradišće. The harbor features a beautiful beach, several attractive restaurants, and a large field of mooring balls out on the water. We’ve decided that if we visit Hvar again, we will try to grab a ball in this harbor, thereby avoiding both Med mooring and Palmizana’s high marina fee (€140). Due to the harbor’s popularity, it would be wise to arrive early or reserve ahead. If the weather were hot, however, we would prefer the marina so we could enjoy the air conditioning that shore power affords (haha!).
A high-speed water taxi (€20 roundtrip) makes quick work of the 2.5-nm trip to Hvar. It’s an efficient, friendly service, and the views are great on the surprisingly thrilling ride. That evening we had a lovely stroll in Hvar—with about 5000 other tourists. With its wide riva and open squares, Hvar can handle the crowds. Regarded as the Croatian St. Tropez, Hvar was the most impressive island town we visited. We had a lovely dinner on St. Stephen’s Square at Spice restaurant, which serves a fusion of Asian and Italian food. The next morning, we taxied back to Hvar to explore, take photos, and shop.
As we wanted to stick to our schedule, we unfortunately only scratched the surface of this vibrant and fascinating town. Around noon we set sail for Vrboska (20 nm), which is on the north shore of Otok Hvar. Along the way, we dropped anchor at Uvala Pelegrinska for a dip in the cool water.
The westerly wind picked up once we got into the channel between Otok Hvar and Otok Brač. We enjoyed broad reaching at over six knots for much of the afternoon. Docking at Vrboska was again thankfully free of mishaps.
Vrboska is a small village, uncrowded and charming. It was aglow at night with its riva, restaurants, and a few bridges, which, with a stretch of the imagination, remind one of Venice. There’s also the Fisherman’s Museum and a couple of old churches. We dined at Restoran Ruzmarin, which is closest to the ACI marina. The owner and his wife made us feel like family, and my grilled fish was outstanding. Even more special was when a regular patron celebrated her birthday: we all sang the Croatian “Happy Birthday,” and cake was offered to everyone in the restaurant. After dinner, we strolled farther into town and happened upon a lively party on the riva. There was a special grill ablaze with sizzling sardines, which even the children were helping cook, and several stalls where ladies were selling the fish. The event was a fundraiser for the local traditional boat club. Even though I had just
consumed a whole grilled branzino, I wanted to try a Croatian sardine, done right. I offered to pay, but the ladies wouldn’t accept my offering. It was delicious! I think we all felt that Vrboska won our hearts and was where we best connected with the local community.
The next day we set sail for Milna (19 nm), which is at the western end of Brač. A good breeze carried us most of the way, broad reaching. En route, we stopped for a swim at Lučice Bay on Brač’s southern shore. This bay is very well protected and large enough for half a dozen boats, and there’s even a military tunnel to explore. Lučice is also where I made my second attempt at snorkeling. I spotted just one yellow fish, accompanied by a few bait-size ones.
At the end of a bareboat charter, the boat must be returned with a full fuel tank (and empty holding tanks). Our intention was to fuel up coming into Milna. We took our place in the queue behind six boats, while a very thirsty catamaran slugged diesel. Not wanting to arrive too late at the ACI marina, we eventually gave up, thinking we would revisit the fuel dock on our way out first thing in the morning. By this time the breeze was in the upper teens and blowing across the mooring quay as we approached. The yacht in front of us unfortunately got swept downwind onto other boats as their stern neared the wall.
Mayhem ensued as a crunching sound filled the air. The overworked marineros scurried about like ants to no avail until one of them jumped in a dinghy to push and tow the sailboat into position. Our hearts went out to all of them, as such an experience can tarnish the luster of an otherwise glorious vacation. When it was our turn, we all took deep breaths. Then, Rob brought us smartly in while our crew stayed vigilant with fenders. A big sigh of relief followed!
Milna is yet another scenic Croatian town. (It would take a hundred years to visit them all!) At this point, we unfortunately only had time for a stroll and a bite to eat. Dinner was at Navigare restaurant, which was only a few steps from our stern at the dock. The waitress, Indira, was personable and the food spectacular. I splurged on the Red Scorpion fish (prickly and poisonous until cleaned), which was probably the most delicious (and expensive!) fish I’ve ever eaten.
The forecast for the next and final day of sailing was for 20-30 knots, with severe thunderstorms in the late afternoon. We
decided to be first in line at the Milna fuel dock and head directly to our home port of Marina Baotić (17nm), intending to beat the weather. As I was departing the quay in a stiff crosswind, our boat’s port rudder snagged on my neighbor’s mooring line. It caused our boat’s bow to pivot down, and suddenly we were heading toward the same boats that our friends had crashed into the previous evening. Luckily, I was able to stop and back away while employing the bow thruster, enough so that the mooring line came free from the rudder. The lesson: Bad things can happen to anyone.
Continuing on to the fuel dock and desiring to be first in line… ha! Five other boats had the same idea. We got very good at keeping station while dodging mega-yachts and large ferries in the narrow channel. After fueling, we made great time to our home port, running under jib alone. (The wind never exceeded 23 knots true.)
At Marina Baotič, after docking, our vessel had to undergo a thorough damage inspection, including by a diver examining the hull. We passed! That afternoon, before the storm arrived, my wife and I hustled over to the much-touted town of Trogir. Time for just one more stroll with gelato, followed by beer on the riva, taking in the magical scene. This final treat put a smiling emoji and two thumbs up on an incredible Croatian sailing adventure.
About the author: When not sailing on the Chesapeake Bay or on the Potomac River with the Sailing Club of Washington, Bob Oppelt is principal bass with the National Symphony Orchestra.
By John Herlig
The moment of truth had come and gone, and the decision was to press on. Bailing out into Beaufort, NC, had been a thought, but the weather seemed calm enough and the sea state was delightful. So, we pressed on aboard the Privilge catamaran Dragonfly, rounding Cape Hatteras and its infamous Diamond Shoals northbound to Deltaville, VA, from the Bahamas.
The weather reports had been somewhat iffy with predictions of atmospheric instability ahead of us. The weather expert Chris Parker recommended we bail. But we felt good about our situation and kept on.
The worst part of making these decisions is always the contemplation. Once you’ve made a choice, all that is left to do is to carry on—and carrying on seems to make clear what you need to do. So, you reduce sail, tweak your heading, and keep a nose to the wind for change. No longer putting energy into making a decision is liberating.
There were just two of us, the owner and me, and we decided to honor Red #2, the Outer Diamond Shoals buoy, keeping the worst of its shallows safely abeam. We motorsailed north in the morning light in good spirits and wondered what excitement might lie ahead.
It was late morning off the southern Outer Banks when things changed. In the cockpit, the owner and I both felt it: a dip in the temperature and a crisp, electric pulse in the air.
“Douse the main?” I suggested.
Mike, the owner, nodded. In short order it was down and in its stack pack as Dragonfly crept steadily northward. The skies began to darken.
The squall line wasn’t hard to see, and as is so often the case, there was nothing else to do and nowhere else to go when it arrived. Mike and I shared the cockpit, watching with a sense of awe. As the rain intensified, we stowed, tucked, and tied the
myriad of miscellany that accumulates on every passage—loose lines, random electronics, and abandoned articles of clothing went away, out of the rain and into the main salon. As we worked, I kept one eye on the anemometer. All around us sheets of rain blew sideways across the waters of the Atlantic.
“That’s 40,” I yelled from the helm. “Forty-five!”
Dragonfly remained unfazed as her twin hulls kept us comfortably level. I grabbed my phone and got some video, something I would never have been able to do on my own boat while excitedly hanging on for dear life. As I panned the camera, Mike slowly came into frame. I asked how he was doing. Mike grinned and offered me two thumbs up.
“This is fun!” he replied. I wasn’t sure he meant it.
Eventually the squall abated, and slowly the sun reclaimed its place in the May sky. The cockpit slowly started to dry, and Dragonfly kept on. A glance at the anemometer showed that the winds had peaked at 55 knots. I made a mental note, as it was a fine number to weave into a story later at a bar.
That squall—while intense—was the only adverse weather we had that day. Mike and I soon got back into passage mode. The low dunes on the shores of Avon and Frisco made a fine backdrop for stories of life on the Outer Banks, a place I had called home for a decade in the early
2000s. We sailed past the Bodie Island Lighthouse, so named because of the bodies that used to wash ashore there, and past Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, and the Duck Research Pier. Soon I started scanning the horizon for the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, in whose shadow I used to live.
I told Mike what I knew about the lighthouse and stories of its first-order Fresnel lens, of lives lost when it first began operation, and of ghost hunters investigating the original keeper’s house in the quiet cold of the off-season. Amidst the warm glow of stories of days gone by, I picked up my phone and texted my friend Meghan, the lighthouse keeper.
“Look east and wave,” I said. “I’ll wave back.”
“Wait. Where are you??” she responded.
“Four miles offshore,” I explained, “just east of you and the lighthouse.”
The lighthouse was still a tiny speck on my horizon, but the human connection with its keeper was real, and connections matter so much in life. Meghan climbed the 220 steps to the lighthouse’s observa-
tion deck to try to spot us bobbing about out in the Atlantic. She was soon asking where to look and how to recognize the boat I was on. My phone dinged.
“I see you!”
Mike and I beamed with pride aboard Dragonfly, having been successfully spotted among many square miles of ocean. As we waved in Meghan’s direction, my phone dinged again, this time with a video. In it were four complete strangers to me, four tourists who had found themselves caught in someone else’s story line, all waving together with Meghan from the observation deck of the lighthouse, all saying “Hi, John!” Mike captured me returning the wave, and we sent the file to Meghan as we slowly returned to the task at hand: sailing Dragonfly.
It’s a thing, now, the waving to the lighthouse from the sea. It works when it works. Sometimes I round the banks in the dark of night. One time an electrical storm thwarted our plans. But there’s still a connection there between two old neighbors, one that welcomes new
members into its club when opportunity presents itself.
Maybe if you’re lucky your $13 climb to the top of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse will end with you waving hello to a passing sailor, too. You just never know.
About the Author: John Herlig is a delivery captain on the US East Coast and the Caribbean and a teacher at Cruisers University. Find him at john@avedelmar.com
We weren’t really sure what to expect transiting the Panama Canal. From start to finish, we saw a wide variety of technical marvels, massive ships, and natural beauty. The locks themselves were like Thomas the Tank Engine for adults—trains, locomotives, ships, tugs, pilot boats—all engaged in this great choreography.
Departing Shelter Bay Marina at 4:30 a.m., we picked up our advisor (sort of a small craft pilot) outside the marina and proceeded toward the Gatun Locks, passing under the Bridge of the Atlantic as the sun began to rise. The howler monkeys made this incredibly eerie cacophony as we motored closer to the jungle area along the canal.
As we approached the lock, we rafted up with two other sailboats to form a ‘nest’ of three boats. The two outside boats (one of which was us) had lines to keep the nest in the center of the lock and big fenders just in case. We followed the Hamburg Pearl, a dry bulk carrier, into the lock. Line handlers ashore threw down messenger lines and hauled up our larger lines. The lock is 110 feet wide, and our nest was probably 45 feet wide, so there was a good distance to the wall.
By Andy Wescoat
While we held our nest on the center manually, small train engines held the Hamburg Pearl in the center of the lock; hence, my Thomas the Tank Engine analogy. Once we reached the new level, the lock opened in front of us and the Pearl moved forward, followed by our nest.
A series of three locks dating back to 1914 lifted us 85 feet. It is not a fast process, but it is a massive one when
our years sailing there.) The lakes were created by flooding the Chagres River. Once peaks of the mountains, the islands are a treasure of wildlife, one occupied by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Center. Along with the natural beauty are, of course, all the ships transiting the canal. And crocodiles; yup, no swimming here.
Secured in place, the massive lock doors behind us began to close. To conserve water, they move water from one lock to the next. The process begins slowly, and the pumps kick on, transferring massive amounts of water into the lock, swirling all about. As we were lifted, line handlers on our boat took up the slack.
you think about the size of the ships, massive amounts of water, huge amount of engineering, and sacrifice made by those who built the canal. Remarkable.
Once we departed the third lock, our nest broke apart, and we proceeded 21 nautical miles to Gamboa where we would raft up for the night. The beauty of the lakes along the way was truly surprising. I guess I had imagined something more akin to the Houston Ship Channel. (Not that I didn’t love
We had to spend the night in the lake in order to get a position in the transit heading down to the Pacific. Good fun. Our group of three sailboats tied up to a massive mooring buoy, and our advisors departed. And, of course, the floating party began… a moveable feast of beer, Prosecco, wine, gin and tonics, rum punches, and appetizers to boot. We also finished the last of the frozen Texas chili with cheddar cheese, sour cream, rice, and tortilla chips, but the Fritos were long gone! Gamboa is a major hub for the canal. A half dozen miles north of the locks to the Pacific, it is a center for tugs, pilot boats, and dredging equipment. A train moves along the shore carrying containers back and forth to terminals in Colon and Panama City (again, like a scene from Thomas sans the Fat Conductor).
The next morning began much the same way, albeit at a much more civilized hour. Our advisors met us before noon, and we headed down to the Pedro Miguel lock.
In similar fashion, we formed our nest and entered the lock. This time we entered the lock ahead of the Pacific Jasper, a chemical tanker. The clearance for the tanker on each side could not have been more than a foot or two. Amazing. Taking direction from the pilot onboard the ship, the little locomotives responded with a series of bells and held him centered in the lock. And we dropped down 85 feet to the Pacific.
In a mere 36 hours we crossed a continent and moved from one ocean to another. It sure beat sailing around Cape Horn!
Planning Tips
• Water shortages are curtailing traffic through the canal. An agent can help you secure a spot on the schedule and can provide you with the required large fenders and long lines that will reach up to the walls of the canal.
• Even though you may be rafted together, each yacht needs a skipper and four line handlers, as well as an advisor provided by the Canal Authority.
• Both sets of locks have online web cams so that friends and family can follow your transit.
• If you’re headed to the Galapagos Islands, be sure your hull bottom is spotless. With any growth, officials in Galapagos may require you to head 60 nm offshore with a diver to have the bottom cleaned.
• Read David McCullough’s excellent history of the canal, “The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal.”
# Heading toward Panama City and the Pacific through the gates of the final Miraflores Lock.
Use the spinsheet online marina Directory to filter by top-tier amenities and specialized services. Be sure to mention PropTalk when you arrive.
Anchorage Marina
Annapolis Landing Marina
Bowley’s Marina
Broad Creek Marina
Campbell’s Boatyards
Casa Rio Marina
Coles Point Marina
Crescent Marina
Cypress Marine
Dennis Point Marina and Campground
Ferry Point Marina Talbot
Flag Harbor Boatyard
Harbour Cove Marina
Hartge Yacht Harbor
Herrington Harbour North
Herrington Harbour South
Lankford Bay Marina
Lighthouse Point Marina
Maryland Marina
Nomad Norview Marina
Port Annapolis Marina
Rockhold Creek Marina
Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort
Sailing Associates Marina
Sassafras Harbor Marina
Selby Bay Yacht Club
Shipwright Harbor Marina
Skipjack Cove Yachting Resort
Spring Cove Marina
The Wharf at Handy’s Point
The Wharf Marina
Whitehall Marina
Yacht Haven of Annapolis
Attention, Sailing Clubs! Share your news and events in the SpinSheet’s Club Notes Section. Send a 350-word write-up and one or more clear photos of smiling faces or pretty boats to beth@spinsheet.com to let sailors around the Bay know about your club’s sailing adventures, social gatherings, and educational events. Find Club Notes section sponsor, YaZu Yachting, at yazuyachting.com and on Facebook.
By Susan Theuns
The Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake (CBCC) intended to complete its second full sailing season with the “Autumn Breeze Before the Freeze,” but unfortunately the cruise was cancelled due to a nasty nor’easter blowing up the coast. We all know better than to look for trouble if we can avoid it. Hopefully the itinerary will be reprised for 2026, as it was a good one. Many thanks to Laura Gwinn for all of her work in putting it together. To get in their ‘last hurrahs,’ a few skippers ventured out for a fall sail once the storm blew through.
Many of this year’s events showcased the diversity of the club; we visited ports and anchorages from the Northern Bay to Solomons and on both the western and eastern shores. We visited several historic towns with lovely harbors, welcoming restaurants, and interesting shops. Each month, a different member or group of members chaired the on-water event and holiday luncheon. Everyone had the opportunity to do as much or as little as they wanted. Everyone had input. Members crewed on other members’ boats,
drove along to ports and events when not onboard, stayed in B&Bs, created itineraries, contacted restaurants and marinas, and reached out in the spirit of kindness and camaraderie. Thank you to our members, potential members, and guests for a fun-tastic year!
To close out the calendar year, we will hold a Holiday Luncheon in Chesapeake City on December 3. Capri Ebright is chairing the event, and we look forward to seeing everyone. Advance thanks to those traveling the distance to Chesapeake City, which is a bit of a trek for some.
Lastly, we continue to have a few new members in the pipeline for this year, and some spots remain open for 2026 as we drop off the inactive
members to make room for new active members (we hold membership to 50 people). Not a member yet? If interested, please send a brief description of your experience, contact information, and expectations to compassboatingclub@yahoo.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
By Celeste Streger
Members of the Hunter Sailing Association Station-1 (HSA-1) made the most of fall.
On October 11, in conjunction with the Annapolis Sailboat Show, we met in Annapolis to socialize with current members and enjoy the show.
Later in the month, we met at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum during its annual OysterFest. Five boats came by land or sea to enjoy the bivalves and demonstrations. After happy hour together aboard Blue Heron, we had dinner in St. Michaels.
Our final sail of the season was our Frostbite Cruise and Raftup. We sailed to the Rhode River where Pinch Me and Blue Heron enjoyed an unusually mild Saturday night on the water to close out the season. This month we gather for a holiday party in early December.
If you have a Hunter or MarlowHunter in the mid-Chesapeake Bay and are not a member, please check out our club at hsa1.org or email commodore@hsa1.org to learn more about the
benefits of membership, which includes access to all club cruises and events and a direct connection to a network of Chesapeake Bay Hunter owners. We hope you will join us!
By Greg Shields
Every day more and more Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club (CBTSC) members are hauling and/or winterizing their boats. And yet,
at least one of our newer members, Frank Deichmeister (1974 Tartan 30), is hoping to get that rare warm sunny day in December to squeeze in one more
day in 2025—or maybe to welcome in the new year with a New Year’s Day sail.
At the club’s Annual Business Meeting on October 18 at Pirates Cove in Galesville, a social hour and lunch preceded a business meeting during which the budget was approved and a new board elected. New officers are: Commodore Mike Mininsohn, Vice Commodore Amelia Whitman, Secretary-Treasurer Lisa E Swann and Chris Cram, Membership Chair Bob Cascone, Newsletter Editor Amelia Whitman, Webmaster Al Robbert, Publicity Coordinator Greg Shields, Past Commodore Michael Swift, and Data Protection Officer Bob Cascone.
If you are a member, or want to be, keep in touch with members over the winter through our online happy hours; visit cbtsc.org for dates and times.
CHESSS (Chesapeake Shorthanded Sailing Society) wrapped up its high point season with the Bacon Sailssponsored CHESSS Last Hurrah Race on November 1. The conditions were nearly perfect with fall temperatures, clear skies, and 12-knot westerlies punctuated by downdrafting gusts to 20 knots. With the solid breezes, the race committee chose the long course.
The gusty conditions made for lively sailing that proved especially sporty for the spinnaker class boats. In the bigger gusts, there were a series of high drama knockdowns among the double-handers in the spinnaker class. Even some of the non-spinnaker boats had their challenging moments.
By Jeff Halpern
The first leg was a fast downwind followed by a high-powered broad reach to SR G-1. The wind clocked at G-1, making for difficult douses in the spinnaker class. Racing in the non-spinnaker class, Jon Opert on Orion showed how it was done, rounding G-1 lapped with spinnaker class boats. With the strong breeze, the nonspin boats had close racing tactically jibs and mains.
Confusion reigned at the next turning mark when it became apparent that the South River red/green can at Thomas Point was no longer in place. This major surprise was handled with good spirits leaving the fleet to round the ‘virtual mark” shown on their chart plotters. Jon Opert and
By Hank Recla
On November 9, the Chesapeake Fleet of the Corinthians Sailing Association rendezvoused for their ‘Fallout Before the Haulout’ marking the end of this year’s water events.
Twenty-one individuals, including members and guests, gathered in Harness Creek off the South River to enjoy a chili cookout at Quiet Waters Park. Three came by boat: John and Dianne Butler on Owl Moon, Todd and Kate Blakeman on Gorgeous Girl, and Hank and Susan Recla on Bay-Tripper.
Several pots of chili competed in a “best chili tasting contest” under the protection of one of the park’s pavilions on a beautiful fall day. All who ate chili voted
Americo Cottely on Orion went on to win the non-spinnaker class. Jeff Halpern and Julian Richards on Synergy won the spinnaker class with Frank Martien and Steve Horvath on Starbird taking line honors.
With the Last Hurrah as the racing season finale, CHESSS awarded its 2025 High Point Trophies to Douglas Ellmore (Revolution, CS30) in the non-spinnaker class, and Jeff Halpern (Synergy, Farr 11.6) in the spinnaker class.
The season awards ceremony was held November 15 during the CHESSS Fall Meeting at Bacon Sails. The awarded trophies included the Spring Poplar Island Race, the Fall Last Hurrah, and the Season High Point winners.
Spinnaker Class
1. Jeffrey Halpern, Synergy (Farr 11.6)
2. Frank Martien, Starbird (Tartan 101)
3. Michael Viens, Specific Gravity (J/100)
Non-Spinnaker Class
1. Jon Opert, Orion (Hanse 371)
2. Pat/Molly Dowling, Valhalla (J/30)
3. John Zseleczky, Old Blue (Pearson 30)
on which chili tasted the best. Congratulations to Maude Laurence, a guest on Owl Moon, winner of the contest. Other prizes were awarded compliments of the Americas Waterway Guide. Kudos to hosts Todd and Kate Blakeman for organizing this event. Thank you, Todd and Kate.
As we move into our off-season, several onshore events are scheduled along with our holiday party on December 7 at the Kent Island Yacht Club. If you are interested in learning more about us and what we do, please visit thecorinthians.org
By Richard Lee
In October, many of our Peninsula Sailors went for a charter adventure to Greece to visit some of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea. We chartered three catamarans and a 51-foot monohull from Lavrion, about an hour southeast of Athens. Some arrived a few days early to explore Athens and others stayed a few days to explore the wonders of Greece. For most of us it was our first opportunity to visit.
We chartered for seven days. The weather was wonderful with average temperatures in the 70s each day and great winds most of the week. Of course, there wasn’t a bad meal to be had anywhere throughout the islands, and the sidewalk cafes were so pleasant to hang out at.
It was nice being right at the town quay and walking to shops and restaurants nearby on the various islands.
The SpinSheet Crew Finder is a free service that is provided to match skippers looking for crew with crew looking for boats. Create your profile today to be included in the searchable listings or search the listings online.
We visited Kea, Kithnos, and Siros during our week in the Aegean Sea. Each island offered a variety of environments and experiences.
Learning the art of Mediterranean mooring was challenging but rewarding at the same time, especially in the monohull! But after the first time it became easier with each attempt, and our crews got their roles down pretty well. I have to say having bow thrusters on the monohull was a real help!
there is a nice beach bar restaurant up the hill overlooking the anchorage.
One of our favorite spots was Kolona beach on Kithnos, a beautiful strip of land that connects the main island to the islet of Agios Loukas. The sea laps on both sides of this “column,” creating two distinct beaches with the same sand and calm, clear, azure waters. The water was slightly chilly but worth a swim, and
Several Peninsula Sailors who went to Greece gained their ability to charter catamarans through our Nautic Ed training program, receiving their SLC international sailing license, and many continue regular skills training on an ongoing basis.
Come to the Baltimore Peninsula and visit us at Port Covington Marina or contact us at mc@sailbp.com. Our motto is “Sailing and Learning Together.”
By Julie Day
Pat Moran, the Training Commodore at the Pentagon Sailing Club (PSC), has been sailing all his life. His great grandfather was a stone sloop captain, his grandfather was in the navy, and his mother was an avid sailor. Pat grew up sailing on small boats and camping out on deserted islands off the coast of Maine. Later he sailed “all over” in a J/24 with his wife and kids, cooking on the cockpit sole and using the top of a cooler as their dining table.
It wasn’t until 2021, during the lockdown, when Pat “needed something to do” that he joined the PSC and began racing every Tuesday with the club, volunteering for the foredeck. The first few races were “brutal” with the spinnaker landing in the water during one race before he “…figured out how to handle the foredeck,” but he “loved every minute.”
Almost from the first moment Pat joined PSC, he began teaching classes on the Potomac River. His style of teaching is to ensure that the students understand
the mechanics and procedures of effective and efficient sailing, but he also places great emphasis on “orienting the student toward his/her senses.” He tells students to “feel the boat when it is in the groove, feel the wind, see the puffs, the current, feel when the boat is side slipping using both visual and sensory cues.” He suggests that if students really want to improve their skills, they should join the racing program. When one is learning, sailing maneuvers are broken into discrete steps. But when racing, the steps all become one fluid motion. As one becomes more adept, one can learn more about sail trim, e.g., handling the outhaul, the boom vang, positioning the traveler, and when to use the cunningham.
Pat firmly believes in a student’s self-assessment. “If a student needs more time on the water, there are plenty
Bof opportunities at PSC to gain experience through Women on Water and the Wednesday social sails.” Pat’s final word of advice if one wants to improve one’s skills, “Always get out with people who are better than you.”
For further information click on pentagonsailing.org and/or facebook.com/pentagonsailingclub.
By Anne Knab
ack Creek Yacht Club (BCYC) members took some time out during this year’s Annapolis Sailboat Show to attend the club’s annual all-hands meeting on October 11. As a virtual club, BCYC does not have a clubhouse to maintain, so in addition to lower member costs, the general membership meets only once a year.
The meeting took place at St. Andrews Swim and Tennis Club with a delicious Italian dinner catered by Little Carmine’s NY Pizza Kitchen in Severna Park, MD. We got things underway with happy hour before the individual officers delivered presentations highlighting the year’s successful on- and off-water events in their individual portfolios. From winter fun with our annual chili cookoff to our spring soiree (formerly commodore’s ball) to a great cruising season that kicked off with a week-long vacation to various marinas around the Chesapeake, BCYC members had a great time this year!
Commodore Chuck Kahle thanked the membership-at-large and called out some of the club’s harder working volunteers, reminding everyone that the club succeeds via group effort. He asked everyone to consider how they might get involved in 2026. Club members then voted in the 2026 slate of officers. They plan to not only keep the momentum going next year but are already trading ideas for more fun events.
Yacht club membership is not just about cruising the Bay in summer, so if you are considering joining a club, don’t wait until spring. BCYC members keep up with each other throughout the year at locations around the Bay. In addition to meeting at cruise destinations and for impromptu raftups, during the off-season we have monthly happy hours at Annapolisarea restaurants. Coordination is easy with WhatsApp. Check us out at backcreekyc.org or at one of our land-based events. #WelcomeAboard!
By Mary Ann Gordon
For members of The Sailing Club, Inc , winter months are a time of planning for the season ahead, as well as enjoying an annual trip designed as an escape from the cold weather.
January 17 through 24 there will be a long-awaited trip sailing northeast from Key West up Hawk’s Channel with several stops for snorkeling and stops at two resort marinas along the way. The chartered boats for this trip are two four-cabin, four-head luxury catamarans. The northernmost destination is Marathon, FL.
Among the first stops will be a visit to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It is North America’s only coral barrier reef and has extensive seagrass beds, mangrove-fringed islands, and more than 6000 species of
marine life. The sanctuary also protects pieces of our nation’s history such as shipwrecks and other archeological treasures.
Looking ahead to the 2026 sailing season, we are in the planning process for a trip to Mallorca, Spain, as well as a few cruises on the Chesapeake. Other possible trips being discussed are a windjammer voyage out of Boston or Maine to coincide with the 250th celebration of America’s independence, a return to the Great Lakes region, and a Caribbean winter trip in early 2027.
per be involved in the trip planning to ensure both safety and a good balance of time on both the water and on land.
Any member of the club can propose a bareboat charter trip; however, club policy requires that a club-certified skip-
Please check out our newly updated webpage at thesailingclub.org and look for openings on the January Florida Keys trip now, as well as information on the 2026 sailing season trips starting April 1.
Our rigging department converted this Hood roller furling mast to a new Schaefer Gamma boom on this Bristol 47 that is currently cruising in the BVI’s. Our riggers also built new rod rigging and upgraded all the wiring and new light fixtures to LED. Our sail loft built a new full batten main & code 0 as well as a furling genoa to fit the existing Harken furler. Our extensive experience with off shore cruising boats and furling booms has provided our customers with a greatintegrated system. Every Mack Sail Is
Bristol 47
Our rigging department Hood roller furling Schaefer Gamma boom on Bristol 47 that is currently cruising in the BVI’s. Our riggers also new rod rigging and upgraded all wiring and new light fixtures sail loft built a new full & code 0 as well furling genoa to fit the existing Our extensive experience cruising boats furling has provided our a integrated
By Carol Hanson
November and December continue with fun-filled entertainment for members of America’s Boating Club Wilmington (ABCW). At our fall dinner social, we hosted Bruce Mowday, an award-winning newspaper reporter and author of over 25 history, sports, business, and true crime books. Bruce gave a fascinating presentation on his book ‘Lafayette at Brandywine: The Making of an American Hero.’ Members learned that without France and Lafayette’s assistance, America could not have won the American Revolution.
Also at the dinner, the ABCW 2025 Photo Contest winners were also recognized for their photographic creativity in the categories of People, Boats, Sunrises/Sunsets, and Scenic/Wildlife.
ABCW members will start the holidays with a warm and wonderful December Holiday Social, to be hosted at a lovely home in Hockessin, DE. We will enjoy an afternoon of socializing, libations, and the always entertaining Holiday Swap Gift Exchange. Thoughtful gift varieties lead to some lively gift swapping; some gifts are swapped several times—and not without some pouts, smiles, and lots of laughter!
January and February’s social events will be held on Zoom. They will feature speakers from all over the country.
ITo learn more about the educational and social opportunities provided by ABCW, or if interested in attending the Zoom socials, visit abc-wilmington.com or contact us at wspsboaters@gmail.com
n late October, 44 members and guests of the Chesapeake Bristol Club (CBC) met at Carrol’s Creek Restaurant, situated on Spa Creek in Annapolis, to celebrate the 51st season of the club. We gathered in the same private room where we had celebrated the club’s 45th anniversary. The space has great views of the creek, with glimpses of the Severn River and the Annapolis Harbor, and we could see young sailors pulling up to the docks.
After a delicious lunch, outgoing Commodore Brian Wexler introduced the invited speakers, Stewards Denise
By Marty Suydam
Alston and Elvia Thompson, who represented the Anne Arundel Watershed Stewards Academy (AAWSA). They presented data and graphics that both educated and informed—and disturbed and troubled— the group as we listened and learned about the level of pollution run-off from lawns and roads and plastics that flow into the Chesapeake Bay causing environmental damage to the habits of our crab, oyster, and fish populations. The stewards provided many practical ideas and suggestions for managing our own yard run-off.
The luncheon ended with the ‘Change of Command’ from Commodore Wexler to
Co-Commodores Georjan and Graham Overman. Additional 2026 board of trustees for CBC’s 52nd season are: vice commodore Bill Clark, rear commodores Tripp Hook and Virginia Bush, recording secretary Robin Isaacson, and treasurer David Burka. Ex-officio members are immediate past commodore Wexler and Randy Gillies. Trustees-at-large are Lynne Hoot and Nancy McCabe.
CBC is a social and sailing club with no clubhouse, yet a year-round calendar of events. ‘Bristol sailboats on the Chesapeake’ is our club’s heritage, but membership is open to all who enjoy sailing or listening to old salts spinning yarns. To be a member you don’t have to own a Bristol (or any boat). Dues are only $45 per year.
We would welcome the opportunity to introduce you to CBC members and answer questions you may have. Visit cbclub.info to join, inquire, or RSVP to any event during the year. Use the email link on the “Joining” page to reach membership director Rebecca Burka.
The 20th annual Halloween Howl Regatta hosted by Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC) unfolded October 24-26 in Annapolis. Two major youth sailing championships were held within the regatta: the USODA Chesapeake Bay Championship (and qualifier for the USA Opti Team Trials) and the C420 Atlantic Coast Championship. Two ILCA classes also raced. In all, over two days, 146 junior sailors were on the water. With a focus on fun, when the wind completely shut down after the Green Fleet’s first race on Sunday, race committee ran a ‘fun race’ in which the young sailors could scull to the windward mark, pick up pumpkins floating in the water, and make their way back to the finish line. Some serious sculling skills were on display! T2PTV captured all the action on both days. Find the fun footage on its YouTube channel.
The Interscholastic Sailing Association (ISSA) Atlantic Coast Championship hosted by St. Mary’s College of Maryland brought high school sailors to Southern Maryland on November 8 and 9. Over two days, 26 races were sailed as competitors contended with light and shifty breeze on the St. Mary’s River. The fleet featured schools from five ISSA districts and 10 states. Congratulations to Chesapeake-region schools Severn and Christchurch for capturing first and third places respectively overall. Find final results at scores.hssailing.org.
Shoreside, Saturday evening the young sailors, their families, and race volunteers (who numbered 50-plus!) enjoyed a playful costume party at AYC, complete with dancing and limbo. After racing on Sunday, an awards ceremony was held, and some impressive silver was presented. Find full race results at theclubspot.com and photos at spinsheet.com/photos.
C420 (10 boats)
1. Walter Daigle/Viana Johnston, AYC
2. Ashton Perkins/Finley Olson, AYC
3. James Reilly/Mercer Rensberger, AYC
ILCA 4 (1 boat)
1. Connor Geary, SSA
ILCA 6 (six boats)
1. Chase Duhon Kovach, NYCC/HYC
2. Liam Wharton, Norfolk Yacht
3. Kasten Buschmann, NYCC
Opti Green (44 boats)
1. Leonardos Petsas, Ponce Yacht & Fishing Club
2. Owen Cal Tyson, SSA
3. Cole Peterman, AYC
Opti Red (15 boats)
1. Daniel Skutch Tyson, AYC
2. Robert Haneberg, AYC
3. Peter Shingledecker, AYC/SSA
Blue Fleet (39 boats)
1. Tucker Johnson, HYC
2. Quillin Moran, AYC/SFYC
3. Aubrey Marino, AYC
White Fleet (18 boats)
1. Oliver Butz, Team Happy/SSA
2. Everett Pierce, HYC
3. Arthur Haneberg, AYC
1. Severn School
While many one-design classes across the country are facing participation challenges, the J/105 Fleet 3 on the Chesapeake continues to thrive, with competitive turnouts, lively events, and an enthusiastic community spirit centered in Annapolis.
In addition to showcasing its deep fleet with 29 boats on the start line at Annapolis Yacht Club’s Wednesday Night Series last summer, Fleet 3 draws 20 or more competing boats to weekend regattas from the Helly Hansen Sailing World Series in springtime to the J/105 Chesapeake Championships in the fall; these figures rival those of recent national championships for these 35-year-old boats. The Annapolis J/105 Women’s Regatta, first introduced in 2022, has grown to feature 18 boats, attracting strong local and traveling teams.
Building on that momentum, Fleet 3 launched a new event in 2025: the inaugural J/105 Annapolis Invitational Regatta, held concurrently with the Eastport Yacht Club (EYC) Fall Brawl one-design regatta October 25-26. Inspired by similar
events in Galveston Bay and in Bermuda, the concept pairs a local Annapolis owner and two crew with a visiting J/105 owner and two traveling crew aboard a local boat. The owner-drivers alternate helming duties each race, producing three scoring divisions: local driver, visiting driver, and combined team.
Led by fleet measurer Doug Stryker and hosted in partnership with EYC, the
event quickly gained traction. Within three days of announcing it, 16 local boats registered to host visiting teams. Within another week, 16 visiting teams from around the country—hailing from Buffalo and Long Island, NY, Chicago, IL, San Francisco, CA, Marblehead, MA, Cleveland, OH, Seattle, WA, and Toronto, Canada—had committed to attend.
“Every single Annapolis boat and all 16 traveling teams that committed in the spring showed up to race,” said Stryker. “Most visiting crews stayed with their local hosts, making it easy for everyone to arrive ready to sail and have fun.”
Saturday’s racing faced a light-air challenge, with race committee PRO Lee Maynard managing one scored race after abandoning the first due to massive shifts.
“We restarted and had the visiting skippers take the helms; given the forecast, this could have been their only chance,” Maynard explained.
After racing, the fleet gathered at EYC for the annual J/105 Fleet Party, hosted by Velvet Hammer owners Krissy and Brian Robinson and J/105 Fleet 3. Kegs of beer; the event’s signature cocktail, the Eastport Lemonade; and a taco bar kept the crowd consisting of Fleet 3 owners, crew, and the invitational competitors lively well into the night under a tent overlooking Annapolis Harbor from EYC’s back lawn. A highlight of the evening was the blindfolded spinnaker-hoist competition, a now-legendary tradition that drew cheers from sailors and spectators alike. If you haven’t experienced this competition, your only chance is to race on a J/105 next season to ensure you are invited to the party.
Sunday delivered just enough breeze for three races, completing a full fourrace series. “We started at 10 a.m. and shortened the legs to just over half a mile to maximize racing for both local and visiting helms,” said Maynard. “It worked perfectly, even after one general recall.”
Trophies were awarded by 4:30 p.m., allowing visiting teams to travel home Sunday night or go out on the town, if leaving on Monday. The local driver scoreboard saw Patriot (also known as PAT RIOT) take top honors, followed by Mirage in second, and Velvet Hammer in third. The top five teams were separated by only three points. Among the visiting teams, Richard Stearns’s Chicago-based Five claimed the win,
with Jack Denker’s team on Idaho from Boston in second, and Mark Fruin’s Nyctosaur from Chicago in third, after the tie breaker.
In the combined team results, Patriot/ Nyctosaur earned the overall championship. Mirage/Mandate took second, and Velvet Hammer/LouLou finished third.
Fleet 3 is already planning the 2026 J/105 Invitational for October 24–25, targeting 20 local boats and paired teams, and there is also discussion with other local one design fleets to join in on the concept and event.
“Racers want more than the same old regatta rise and repeat playbook,” said Stryker. “We’re blending competition, community, and creativity to keep the fleet and class strong and connected. Whether it’s our J/105 Women’s Regatta, the Annapolis YC 3-2-1 which includes J/105 match racing, or this J/105 Annapolis Invitational Regatta, these events showcase and celebrate what makes sailing J/105s in Annapolis special.”
J/105 - Local (16 Boats)
1. Patriot, Ray Wulff
2. LouLou’s Velvet Hammer, Krissy Robinson Paul Beaudin
3. Mirage, Lewis/ Salvesen
J/105 - Overall (16 Boats)
1. Patriot-Nyctosaur, Wulff-Fruin
2. Mirage-Mandate, Lewis/Salvesen-Wilmer
3. Velvet Hammer-LouLou, Robinson-Beaudin
J/105 - Visitor (16 Boats)
1. Five, Richard Stearns
2. Idaho, Jack Denker
3. Nyctosaur, Mark Fruin
J/70 (13 Boats)
1. Sitella, Ian Hill
2. Progress, Paul Green
3. Proof, Jib Edwards
Viper 640 (8 Boats)
1. Gnixe, Bill Vickers
2. Weather Permitting, Robert and Becky Ranzenbach
3. Silver Hammer, Scott Steele
As participant Brian Denker of Team Idaho summed up: “It was kind of a who’s who of J/105 sailors from all over, a mini-nationals. We learned so much from our hosts and saw just how talented this class is.”
By Kelly FitzGerald
The 2025 J/24 & J/22 East Coast Championship had a modern-day record turnout this October in Annapolis with 34 J/24s and 14 J/22s competing for the top spot! This year marked the 48th year the J/24 East Coast Championship (ECC) has been held consecutively at Severn Sailing Association (SSA) with a growing list of competitors inking in the dates for one of the best sailing weekends of the year.
With over 220 sailors racing, two dozen race committee staffers, 50-plus regatta volunteers, and more than 260 regatta party tickets sold, Eastport was rocking the weekend of October 16-19! Competitors traveled from Bermuda, California, Florida, New York, and everywhere in between. When the band started rocking at the Saturday Night Tent Party, even friends from other fleets showed up to join the fun.
What was the best part of ECCs this year? The amazing groundswell of support from fleet members, local businesses, and local sailors who wanted to give back. It all started with Harry Sesselberg, our awe-
some friend, who found Fleet 8 member Pete Kassal at the Annapolis Sailboat Show and gave him $100 in cash to sponsor a box of oysters. Next thing we knew, “Hot Girl Walk,” a network of local women sailors, decided to sponsor the Skippers’ Meeting pizza, and after that, keg sponsorships started rolling in from all over town. The grassroots movement of local sailors supporting sailors was truly incredible and proves just how fantastic our sailing community is.
Another major highlight for this year was the four dedicated Under 30 (U30) J/24 teams. The regatta was able to offer reduced entry fees with the support of local fleet member Ron Simon. Connor Raham and the veteran Seaweed team from Upstate New York took the top U30 spot and were our first regatta sponsor this year. Sam Parsons and his Lucky 13 team are the J/24 Youth Grant Recipients this year and logged more hours racing than any other boat in our Annapolis fleet.
The SISU team is a newly formed U30 Annapolitan team, who had a great season of Thursday Night Racing, and this was
their first year ever sailing together. Once they heard Connor was throwing in for the party, they sponsored a keg too. Annika Kaelin, Reflex, and the Georgia Tech Sailing Team race four J/24s at GA Tech and will be competing next at J/24 Nationals against Lucky 13 and Seaweed
There was plenty of on-the-water excitement too. With nine races for the J/24s and six races for the J/22s, we had one day of champagne sailing, one day with an onshore AP, and yes, a day with some carnage. On Sunday, with the breeze gusting to the high 20s and big waves from the south, the jibs came out, and competitors with the freshest foulies looked like the real winners.
The day ended with J/24s seeing top speeds of 12-plus knots downwind (pretty fast for us!), a broken J/24 boom, broken J/22 mast, spinnakers wrapped around forestays, and the like. As always for the ECC, something for everyone! Congratulations to all our competitors for always making the ECC one of the toughest, most competitive, and most festive events of the year!
For three decades, Charleston Race Week at Patriot’s Point has united sailors from around the world for ‘A Regatta Unlike Any Other.’ Join us on April 16-19, 2026 as we mark 30 years of premier racing, lively shoreside festivities, unforgettable competition and the enduring spirit of sailing.
SPECIAL THANKS TO THESE SPONSORS THAT MAKE RACEWEEK POSSIBLE:
J/22 (14 Boats)
1. Piñata, Jake Doyle, Kevin Doyle, Whitney Kent, Jake Doyle
2. Hot Toddy, Jeffrey Todd, Aaron Moeller, Chris Ryan
3. Heather’s Kitchen, David McBrier, Sean Walker, Melissa Trost
J/24 (34 Boats)
1. Tremendous Slouch, Paul Abdullah, Max Vinocur, Ian Hunter, Jeff Hayden, Daniel Borrer, Paul Abdullah
2. Rockstar, Joseph Murphy, John Marshall, Joseph Murphy, Monica Morgan, Chris Morgan, Ryan Glynn
3. Bangor Packet, Tony Parker, Emmet Todd, James Niblock, Will Bomar, Mike Marshall
Special thanks to SSA, our regatta team and race committee, friends who housed teams, and all the many volunteers that helped make a great weekend of fall racing. To everyone who wants to join the fun next year, follow us and reach out on Instagram and Facebook @j24ecc. See you at the beer truck!
On the weekend of October 18-19 Annapolis Yacht Club hosted the J/105 Chesapeake Bay Championship. (CBC). Find full results at yachtscoring.com and photos at spinsheet.com/photos.
J/105 (20 Boats)
1.
2.
3.
By Steph Mah
Every two years, Albacore sailors from Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom come together for their International Championships, a fierce on-water competition rivaled only by the fierce off-water camaraderie.
From October 11 to 18, 10 British teams and 10 Canadian teams joined 16 American teams for this title event that was hosted by the Hampton Yacht Club (HYC) and raced on the Hampton Flats. HYC rolled out the red carpet with a well-stocked bar and exceptional race committee work led by RO Chip Till and HYC event chair Maxwell Plarr. Chief judge Jerry Thompson also kept everyone honest except on day one of the event, where a little gale kept everyone off the water and became the lay day. The remnants of that system and another low just offshore brought plenty of northerly unstable wind to the rest of the regatta. Add to that some incredible king tides, and you had a regatta where no one was
Top Three Results (36 boats)
1. Barney Harris/David Byron, Gale Warning
2. Raines Koby/Stephanie Mah, (no name)
3. Neville Herbert/Lewis Fowler, Intergalactic
comfortably in charge, and even the top guys had moments of being completely and utterly lost.
Day two of the event was the windiest day, with average wind speeds of 17 knots with gusts into the mid 20s. Multi-time international champ Barney Harris and his loyal first mate David Byron pulled off three bullets, setting a tone. Their little picket fence wasn’t easy with the Canadian team of Michael Williamson and Tony Zakrajsek consistently making their way to the windward mark first, which was a feat given this was their first time sailing together in big breeze. Some sailors decided to test if the Hampton Flats depth charts were accurate (10 feet? Really?) and unfortunately discovered they were, surrendering some masts in the process.
Day two of the event opened with a bowel cleaning sail to the racecourse in 25 knots and an ebb tide. Everyone arrived looking like a drowned rat. The first race of the day was sailed in the same conditions as the day before, with the result
that Harris and Byron added a bullet to their scores, but the team of Raines Koby and Steph Mah overcame physics to finish with a third. From there on out, the wind lightened, and boys found themselves throwing their junk food overboard. Williamson and Zakrajsek decided they liked hanging out on the pin boat’s anchor line so much that they gybed right after clearing it to hang out on it some more.
Day three brought 10 to 12 knots of breeze still from the north with the tide still giving chaos vibes, and later the wind died. For day four, the wind was back, solidly blowing in mid-teens gusting to the mid-20s. The big puffs and shifts and wacky tide continued to shake up the leaderboard.
Going into the last day of the regatta, it was anyone’s title to win. Koby/Mah held a two-point lead over Harris/Byron, with 2023 International Champion Neville Herbert and Lewis Fowler just two points behind them, and Big Mac/Ernest Ayukawa two points behind them. All the leaders kept it exciting by being consistently inconsistent, but a winner had to emerge, and one did. A huge congratulations goes to Harris and his crew Byron for winning their sixth Internationals title and making them the record holders.
The fleet is forever grateful to the incredible HYC for their efforts in making everyone feel welcome and running a top-tier event. Also amazing was Maxwell and Jerry taking an hour of each day to pre-brief and post-brief the competitors. It ensured this was a fantastic learning event no matter what your results were.
A version of this article first appeared in Sail World.
The Baltimore City Yacht Association (BCYA) hosted its Harbor Cup October 19, running a 19-nautical-mile course from Baltimore Light into Baltimore Harbor. Thirty-nine boats competed in the mostly downwind affair.
BCYA sailor Madeleine Schroeher says, “It was a lovely southerly summer breeze in October—started chilly but warmed up beautifully for the party. All boats that came to the starting line finished well within the time limit!”
Find the full results at bcya.com/harbor-cup and photos at spinsheet.com/photos.
PHRF A (5 boats)
1. Tangent, Gary Schoolden
2. Bare Bones, John Tis
3. Himmel, Don Snelgrove
PHRF B (7 boats)
1. Incommunicado, Ed Tracey and Tim Polk
2. Something Wicked, Michael Johns
3. Artemis II, Christine Compton
PHRF Cruising Spinnaker (1 boats)
1. Huzzah, Jason Woodson
Multihull (4 boats)
1. Gemini, Jere Glover
2. Patriot, Jeffrey Thompson
3. Triple Threat, Tim Lyons
CRCA Cruiser (3 boats)
1. Heyday, Shepherd Drain
2. Etoile, Marcel Klik
3. Liberty, Robert Richardson
CRCA Racer (4 boats)
1. Heartbreaker, Fritz Sieber
2. In the Red, Antoinette Wilkins
3. Lucky Eights, Keith Cole
ORC Open (14 boats)
1. Actaea, Michael Cone
2. Split Decision, Jordan Tacchetti
3. Aremorica, Todd Johnson
ORC Performance Cruiser (1 boat)
1. Miles to Go, Erik Halverson
Two hurricanes passing offshore earlier in the week threatened to disrupt the 44th Chesapeake Bay ILCA Masters Championship (October 4-5), but both storms turned north just in time to leave Fishing Bay Yacht Club (FBYC) with a picture-perfect fall weekend: clear skies, mild temperatures, and no sign of tropical weather. Unfortunately, the storms also took the wind with them, leaving sailors to contend with light air both days.
This year’s event introduced separate starts for ILCA 6 and ILCA 7 fleets, drawing 41 competitors from across the region. After some last-minute class changes prompted by the forecast, the final tally was 27 ILCA 7s and 14 ILCA 6s.
Friday was devoted to arrivals, setup, and practice sails, with many sailors pitching tents and settling in for the weekend. Saturday dawned calm, with glassy water across Fishing Bay. The race committee hoisted the postponement flag ashore and waited for signs of breeze. By early afternoon, the wind began to fill, first from the west, swinging south, and finally settling in from the east around four to six knots. By 2:30, the first races were underway just west of Stove Point in the Piankatank River.
The ILCA 7 fleet started first, sailing a short one-lap race. Defending champion Dave Chapin opened strong with a win, followed by Rob Whittemore (FBYC) in
# The view from the racecourse. Photo by Jon Deutsch
second and James Jacob (Severn Sailing Association) in third.
In the ILCA 6s, Deniz Cirivello (Severn Sailing Association) took the first bullet ahead of Keith Barron (Ocala Sailing Club) and Jeff Moore (SSA).
A longer second race followed as the breeze held. Alex Jacob led the ILCA 7s wire-to-wire with Chapin and Mark Sanford (Marsh Creek Sailing Club) close behind. In the ILCA 6s, Bill Lawson (SSA) claimed the win, with Cirivello second and Moore again in third.
As the sun dipped lower and wind began to soften, the race committee opted for one final one-lap race before calling it a day. This time, Rob Whittemore took the win in the ILCA 7s, followed by Sanford and Chapin. Cirivello closed out a strong day by winning again in the ILCA 6s, ahead of Lawson and Natalie Burls (Severn Sailing Association). Racing wrapped up around 4:30 p.m., and boats were ashore by 5 p.m., just in time for the evening meal.
ILCA-7
1st Overall, First Great Grand Master, Dave Chapin
1st Master, Mark Sanford
1st Grand Master, Mike Colbert
1st Apprentice Master, Jon Deutsch
ILCA-6
1st Great Grand Master, Bill Lawson
1st Master, 1st Woman, Deniz Cirivello
1st Grand Master, Jeff Moore
1st Apprentice Master, Natalie Burls
Sunday brought the calm conditions everyone feared. After several hours of waiting and watching for the faintest sign of breeze, the race committee called it a day, and the regatta concluded with awards ashore.
Sailfaster: What keeps you coming back to ocean racing?
Charlie Enright: Two things: competition and adventure. I’ve always been a competitive person, but ocean racing adds that extra layer of human experience. You’re not just racing sailboats; you’re doing it in the most remote places on earth. I think of it like a mix between chess and climbing Everest, except you’re racing other people up the mountain. It’s that blend of precision and raw adventure that’s addictive.
You’ve been through some extreme moments at sea from winning the Fastnet to dismasting in the Southern Ocean. How do you handle those limits when they come?
Offshore sailing tests everything: physically, emotionally, and mentally. I remember one campaign where, in the middle of the Southern Ocean, I got a call from my wife that our son was in the hospital. That was brutal. Then, the team had a collision in Hong Kong, and later, we lost a rig near Cape Horn. It felt like one hit after another, but you keep going. You deal with the next leg, the next problem, and you learn from it. When we finally came back and won The Ocean Race in 2023, it meant even more because of all those moments when things went wrong.
The Ocean Race winner and new U.S. Sailing CEO talks with Pete Boland of Sailfaster about preparation, teamwork, and why resilience matters on land as much as at sea. To hear the full episode, tune into Sailfaster wherever you get your podcasts.
What are your biggest lessons about preparation for offshore?
Preparation is everything. It’s not just turning up with a fast boat and a handful of good sailors—it’s about the cumulative detail and the culture you build around it. We begin long before the start line: boat design decisions, crew selection, gear choices, and training programs; many of those conversations happen 18 to 24 months ahead.
don’t go your way. I’ve said before that learning to be comfortable being uncomfortable is core offshore.
From the hardware side, we learned early that you don’t need radical overhauls every time. You need consistent improvement in many small areas. After a mid-leg in the The Ocean Race where our backs were against the wall, we realized the difference wasn’t a totally new boat; it was a mindset shift: “What can I do in my role today?”
On the people side, it’s about selecting the right crew—not just for speed, but for resilience, accountability, and culture. Even weekend racers can draw from this: you may not pick all your crew, but you can pick attitude, expectations, and preparation rhythms.
There’s also the mental side: training your head for the discomfort, the fatigue, the moment when things
Finally, don’t leave preparation to chance. As an example: we logged thousands of miles on our transatlantic run before the big event so that we could test systems, shake down foils, and adjust sail plans. You need time for testing, failures, and recovery, not just sailing fast.
So: think long-term, refine the little things, build the right team, train the mindset, and test early and often. That’s how you turn preparation from a checkbox into a competitive edge.
Now you’re leading US Sailing. What’s your vision for the future?
I want US Sailing to be something people want to belong to again. We need to be real about where we are, but also proud of what’s ahead. This sport has given me everything, and now it’s time to give back. We’re trying to create a movement here.
By Kim Couranz
Fall championship regattas are in the rearview mirror. Daylight is in short supply as we approach the winter solstice. For most Chesapeake sailors it’s time to take a deep breath and enjoy the holidays with friends and family. It’s the perfect time for some physical and mental recovery.
As much as we dinghy sailors love sailing, recovery is an important part of the cycle of campaigning a small boat. Short-term recovery is a key part of any regatta, especially major events that last a few days or even a week. During those events, your next day of competition starts as soon as you get off the water.
You need to get right to recovery food and hydration, mentally processing what you need to tackle so that you are set up right for the next day, and ensuring you get an optimal night of sleep.
But longer-term recovery phases are important, too. If you have focused on physical and mental training and on-the-water practicing as a lead-up to a major event, you have gone through several phases on your way to your goal. Phases in different sports vary somewhat, but they share elements. For example, marathon runners work through base, build, peak, and taper phases before running 26.2 miles suc-
cessfully. Then, they work through a recovery phase. Just because you have run a marathon doesn’t mean you get right back out there and keep at peak training; taking time to recover properly helps you heal mentally and physically so that you’re ready to prepare for another event.
For sailing, training for a big event— our “marathon”—works through similar phases. If you target a fall championship, that means that in the spring you start working on boathandling; you build to active practice and training sessions with other boats and on to practice regattas, and it’s focus time as
you head to your big event. Concurrent with the sailing side of things, you ramp up your physical training and ideally your mental preparations (running the gamut from practicing on-course focus to reviewing the Racing Rules of Sailing). High school and college sailors focus hard for their spring and fall seasons, following similar processes.
All of that takes a lot of time and energy, and it can take a toll. That’s where the recovery phase comes in. Physically, dinghy sailing is a quirky sport. It over-
emphasizes some muscles (I’m talking to you, quads), it often encourages bad posture (hiking position is not the greatest), and it demands we place some pretty odd loads on our joints.
Take some time to rebalance your body. Identify any potential injuries. To power through a season of sailing, we may convince ourselves that a nagging pain or discomfort isn’t that big of a deal, that we can get through our championship with a muscle or joint not being quite at 100 percent.
But wouldn’t it be great if they were at 100 percent? Now’s the time to address those. Depending on the severity, a doctor, physical therapist, massage therapist, or other expert can help you heal.
The recovery phase is also a good time to reset your physical fitness program. You don’t need to push hard, but make sure you cover strength, cardio, and stretching. We can easily get out of balance on these elements during the peak of sailing season, but all of these are important for your longterm sustainability in health and on the racecourse.
Mentally, a little time away is important, too. Balance in our lives can be really hard to find these days, and it’s so easy and tempting to put too much emphasis on what success in regattas means. Acknowledge how you feel about your regatta or season, and step away for a bit. Help your brain shift gears by reconnecting with friends and family, reengaging with another hobby, or simply taking a walk in nature. Stepping away for a bit can make a sport even more enjoyable when you dive back in.
As part of the mental recovery process, you can set some groundwork for your next season or campaign toward a goal regatta. Review your previous effort honestly; no self-criticism, but simply point out what worked well and where you can improve. This will help you identify what you’ll focus on in your next effort. Key to this is remembering that your performance does not define your worth.
I promise, the sport will still be there after you take a “time out,” no matter how long you need. Enjoy finding mental and physical balance, and we’ll all be back on the water soon!
About the Author: Kim Couranz has earned several national and world titles in Laser Radials (ILCA 6), Snipes, and Lightnings. She has also raced J/22s, J/24s, and Ynglings on an international level.
S&J Yachts, Brokers for Fine Yachts
With 10 locations from Maine to Florida, S&J Yachts is one of the largest full-service yacht brokerages on the East Coast. Our extensive reach & marketing helps find top buyers quickly. S&J Yachts has established an outstanding reputation for integrity and service! Our experienced team of brokers is committed to serving both buyers and sellers, ensuring fair practices and complete satisfaction with every deal. Whether sail or power, we’ll help you find the perfect fit! 410.639.2777 info@sjyachts.com www.sjyachts.com
Veteran Yacht Sales Headquartered in Annapolis, Veteran Yacht Sales serves clients throughout the East Coast and beyond, connecting discerning buyers with exceptional yachts. Our seasoned professionals, rooted in military and first-responder communities, ensure every transaction is transparent, trustworthy, and tailored to your needs. Whether buying or selling, rely on our comprehensive marketing program, drone photography, ongoing market analysis, and meticulous attention to detail. Experience Mission-Driven Yachting. Call today: 443.512.2960, info@veteranyachtsales.com , www.veteranyachtsales.com
YachtView.com wants to be your concierge Annapolis brokerage to sell your power or sailing yacht. We offer complimentary, secure dockage with electrical hookups for vessels ranging from 25’ to 80’ until sold. Our commission is 8% for direct sales or 10% co-brokered. We advertise on YachtView.com, YachtWorld.com, YachtTrader.com, and Yachtr.com for excellent MLS exposure. Located 15 minutes from BWI and downtown Annapolis for easy customer access. Visit YachtView.com or contact Capt. John Kaiser, Jr. for a detailed yacht appraisal today! Yacht View Brokerage, John Kaiser, Jr., Full-time yacht broker since 1988, call/text: 443.223.7864, John@YachtView.com, www.YachtView.com
Matthew Lambert – YaZu Yachting Since joining YaZu Yachting in 2023, Matt has played a key role in growing the sailboat side of the business. A lifelong sailor and active competitor, Matt has a deep appreciation for wellcrafted boats of all kinds—not just the fast ones! He combines his extensive on-the-water experience with a strong background in sales to effectively market boats for sellers and match buyers with the perfect vessel for their needs. Matt: 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
1982 Marshall Catboat, 18’ Sanderling, One Owner Lifetime Chesapeake Bay boat! 2017 Tohatsu 6Hp outboard/low hours, no trailer. Features: Awl-Grip painted spars; teak trim throughout; recent foam berth mattresses; self-contained toilet; Dacron sail/Sunbrella sail cover; full lazy jacks; 4” compass in bulkhead; bronze cleats for bow/stern/spring lines; flag halyard; bronze transom step, folding bronze step on rudder. $13,900 Lying Galesville. Broker: Geoff Marshall, Marshall Marine Corp: 508.994.0414, geoff@marshallcat.com More info/photos: www.tinyurl.com/LibertyMarshall
1996 Catalina 27 Perfect for a variety of water activities. Buyer has the option to keep this perfect slip. Engine: Westerbeke Diesel. Located in Annapolis City Marina. **Reduced to $11,500** Contact: 410.303.5900
1985 Sabre 28 Universal diesel, professionally maintained. Deck needs paint. New sailcover. Interior in good shape. Currently at Calvert Marina. PRICE REDUCED **$5,500** Call Mark for details and photos, 508.648.2950
2015 J Boats J/88 Race-ready and professionally maintained w/ new Quantum class sails 09/2025, upgraded rigging 09/2025, custom Triad trailer (2022), race-finished bottom, B&G H5000 & Zeus2 electronics, custom canvas winter cover (2023), and much more. Proven performance, turnkey package. Located in Annapolis. Asking $130,000 Contact: John Bell 301.466.9550. For more information and photos, visit: www.tinyurl.com/JBoats88
1979 S2 9.2A, 30’ Sloop 2005 Volvo D-Engine. Sleeps 5 comfortably, has head, galley, shower. 5-foot draft. Located: Georgetown Yacht Haven, Maryland. Asking $9,900 – or best offer! Pls contact by email: bodo. wolters@outlook.com More info/photos, visit: www.tinyurl.com/1979Sloop
RARE FIND – 1978 30’ S2 9.2C Center Cockpit Aft Cabin On the hard at Northern end of Chesapeake Bay in sailaway condition. Edson steerer, Raymarine Instruments, Harken Winches & Furling Genoa, and more. For sale at $7,000 Contact pineyS2C@gmail.com
1979 Sabre 34 Centerboard Sloop Refrigeration, dinghy davits, solar panel, new AGM batteries, battery charger, new thru-hulls and seacocks, Petit Trinidad, Volvo Penta, Bowmar hatches, Lewmar winches. This boat is ready to sail TODAY! $16,000 Contact: 410.263.0299 or EGladd@yahoo.com More info/ photos: www.tinyurl.com/34Sabre
35’ J Boats J/35 1986 J/35 Maggie is for sale. She’s well-known and fast, has won a lot on the Bay and is a great racer/ cruiser, with an extensive practice and club racing-ready sail inventory, a custom V-berth and other amenities for cruising and many extras. $19,900 negotiable. Email Jim at J35ForSale@proton.me or call 41O.9O3.78O1. More photos: www.tinyurl.com/J35Maggie
Bayfield 36 1989 If you are looking for a well-equipped, bluewater vessel, put this boat on your list! S/V Ferrity is conveniently located in Annapolis, Maryland. Re-powered w/ Beta 43 (approx. 150 hours), Hydrovane steering, solar panels, and MUCH more! $44,900 Questions? Contact Arne at Annapolis Sailyard for full specs and/or to make a viewing appointment today: Arne@Sailyard.com. For more photos/info, visit: www.tinyurl.com/Bayfield36
1973 Nautor Swan 44 This 1973 Sparkman & Stevens designed Nautor Swan is ready to be raced or cruised by her new owners. ‘Aura’ is a wellrespected and beautiful Swan 44 with classic lines, and a dream to sail. The boat is berthed in St. Mary’s County, MD and ready for inspection. $58,000 Call Piet Van Os, 305.928.1335, piet@dqyachts.com – For more info/pics: www.tinyurl.com/NautorSwan44
Gozzard 44 Cutter 1997 Belle Bateau is ready to cruise now! Classic lines, open interior, bow/stern thrusters, hydronic heating, 6 solar panels, new standing rigging, washer/dryer, much more! $290,000 Contact broker Hilary Howes: 202.701.8911 or hilary@integrityyachtsales.com. For more info/photos, visit: www.tinyurl.com/BelleBateau
2000 Grand Soleil 46.3 Beautifully maintained Italian performance cruiser with new paint, updated systems, spacious 3-cabin interior, solar, lithium batteries, watermaker, Yanmar saildrive—fully equipped and offshoreready for comfortable cruising. $169,900 Contact: matt@beaufortyachtsales.com More info/photos: www.tinyurl.com/GrandSoleil46
2022 Saffier 33 LIFE Daysailor. Highperformance daysailer/racer. Carbon rig and boom, laminate Elvstrom sails, w/ A2 Spin and Code-0 on furlers. Ready to go very light Chesapeake use. Sporty, fast and modern design - Offers Encouraged! Annapolis/Jabin. Asking $349,000 - over 500k to replace. Call Mike Titgemeyer 410.703.7986 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2005 Pacific Seacraft 40’ “Indigo“Low hours Yanmar 75hp turbo-diesel, cutter rig, in-boom furling, AC/heat/ genset, 2 staterooms - separate shower, extensive custom modifications, ongoing upgrading. Just Reduced $315,000 Call Rod Rowan 410.593.7531 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
“Bluebird” — single-owner, 3 cabins, 2 heads, shoal draft, just 245 engine hours, lightly Chesapeake-used, fully loaded w/ generator, bow thruster, A/C. Asking $397,900 Call Matt Weimer 410.212.2628 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2022 Excess 12 40’ “Artemis” is fully equipped for coastal cruising. Highlights include - Genset, Air Con, Dinghy, Code Zero and More! Lightly used on Chesapeake Bay only. Asking $499,000 Call Denise Hanna 410.991.8236 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2002 Island Packet 420 42’ “Epithelios” — new listing, cutter rig/3 curlers, 2 private staterooms w/ head/shower, ultra leather upholstery, AC/Heat, Genset, bow thruster, turbodiesel Yanmar. In Annapolis. Asking $299,000 Call Rod Rowan 703.593.7531 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2021 Lagoon 42 “About Time” 3 cabin, 3 head “Owners Version” loaded w/ options, and only 340 engine hours. Only used as a Chesapeake weekender - Asking $589,000 Call Matt Weimer 410.212.2628 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2022 Jeanneau 440 44’ “Boat-Tox”220 engine hours, generator, A/C, inmast furling, bow thruster, radar, AIS, electric winches. Excellent condition. Annapolis. Asking $429,000 Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2008 Jeanneau 45DS 45’ Bluefin is a single owner, 3 cabin, shoal draft. This boat has been well-maintained and chocked full of upgrades. Ready to sail away. Asking $198,000 Call Jeff Jordan 410.320.5183 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2005 Beneteau 473 47’ “Sanctuary” is a 2 cabin, 2 head with extra storage. Professionally maintained and consistently upgraded, she is ICW friendly, and set up for off-grid living. Asking $174,900 Call Matt Weimer 410.212.2628 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2020 Fountaine Pajot Sanoa 47 Three cabin catamaran ready for extended cruising w/ new Lithium bank, solar, generator, watermaker, washer/dryer, full cockpit enclosure, dinghy and outboard. At Jabins in the water. Asking $799,000 Call Denise Hanna 410.991.8236 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2023 Jeanneau 490 Lightly used only one season - Delivered July 2025! Still has Warranty! FULLY LOADEDGenset, Thruster, Plotters/radar (2), Davits, Thruster, Air Con(3) and MORE! 3 Cabin - 2 Head ICW Mast - This boat is ready to go coastal cruising now. Asking $625,000 -- Will sell fast! Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
2012 Jeanneau 57 Remedy is not your typical Jeanneau 57. She has been transformed into a true bluewater expedition yacht. From engineered running backstays to a fully integrated storm sail plan, watertight aft lazarette and expanded fuel tankage w/ 1,000+ NM motoring range. Asking $695,000 Call Jeff Jordan 410.320.5183 or www.CrusaderYachts.com
(Red Sky) 37’ Hunter ‘98 $64,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Native) 38’ Herreshoff ‘70 $22,000 Lin Earley 757.672.2778 lin@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Shari) 40’ Freedom ‘95 $119,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Siddhartha) 41’ Hunter H41 Deck Salon ‘08 $137,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
50’
Leave 10% Brokerage Fees in Your Wake Jay Porterfield • Knot 10 Sail (410) 977-9460 • jay@knot10.com
409 Chester Avenue, Suite A Annapolis, MD 21403 1.855.266.5676 | info@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Talisman) 34’ Catalina ‘88 $22,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Skye) 35’ Bristol ‘86 $85,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
SpinSheet.com
(Aurora) 40’ Nauticat ‘85 $145,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Lilly Pearl) 40’ Bristol ‘80 $37,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Antilles Passage) 43’ Beneteau Oceanis ‘10 $144,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4500 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Wonder) 44’ Wellington ‘80 $282,000 Jim Edwards 252.474.5000 jedwards @curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
(Blue) 46’ Beneteau ‘97 $125,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900 curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
1999 Beneteau Oceanis 321 Great Family Bay boat! Super clean. Call Jay 410.977.9460 or Jay@Knot10.com www.Knot10.com
2002
2019
60 Beneteau Oceanis 60 2016 .............................. $599,000
57 Southerly 57RS 2010 $899,000
50 Beneteau 510 1992 $110,000
49 Beneteau 49 2007 $219,000
49 Hunter 49 2007 $265,000
49 Southerly 49RS 2009 $499,000
48 Beneteau Oceanis 48 2014 $299,000
48 Island Packet 485 ‘04, ‘05, ‘07 ............3 from $425,000
47 Bavaria Ocean 47 2000 $178,500
47 Beneteau 473 2002 $140,000
45 Allures 45.9 2011 $430,000
45 Beneteau Oceanis 454 2015 $320,000
45 Hunter 455 CC 2007 $160,000
45 Jeanneau 45.2 1998 $168,000
44 Alden 44 1979 ................................................... $89,000
44 Beneteau 44 CC 2000 $114,000
44 Catalina 445 2011 $269,000
44 Island Packet 445 ‘05, ‘06 2 from $349,000
44 Island Packet 440 2006 ........................2 from $332,000
43 Broadblue 435 2010 $375,000
43 Saga 43 1998 $169,000
43 Shannon 43 1988 $165,000
42 Bavaria C42 2023 $399,500
42 Bavaria Ocean 42 1999 $120,000
42 Beneteau 423 2004 $149,900
42 Catalina 42 1989 ............................................... $79,000
42 Catalina 425 2019 $325,000
42 Fountaine Pajot Venezia 42 1996 $149,000
42 Southerly 420 2024 ......................................... $795,000
42 Tayana Vancouver 42 1986 $124,900 42 Trintella 42 1984 $110,000 40 Caliber 40 LRC SE 2008 $165,000 40 Hinckley Bermuda 40 1972 $128,000
40 Hunter 410 1998 $120,000
Island Packet 40 ‘95, ‘97 2 from $148,500
31’ Gozzard 31 1991 Distinctive & seaworthy; blending handcrafted elegance w/ practical cruising design. Cutter rig, shallow draft, convertible salon, & quality Canadian build make her a standout pocket cruiser — perfect for adventure or easy living aboard. $95,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
34’ Island Packet 349 2019 Oneowner boat, clean & well-equipped for cruising the east coast & Bahamas. Bimini, dodger, davits, new genset, new sails, A/C w/ reverse cycle heat & jet bow thruster for quiet, close quarter handling. $369,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
38’ Sabre 386 2004 Elegant & capable — performance & quality in a timeless design. 3cabin/1 head layout w/ ample space & storage. Shoal draft, upgraded systems, & meticulous care make ‘Zia’ an ideal cruiser or club racer. $179,500 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2023 Bavaria C42 BIG SAVINGS
$109,000 – European Yacht of the Year Winner! Fully commissioned and ready for your Summer enjoyment. Modern hull shape provides increased stability, performance & space below deck. 3 cabin/2 head w/ attractive mahogany interior. ICW rig, furling mainsail, B&G electronics, Autopilot, Bow thruster, A/C & more… $399,500 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
42 1984 Legendary Van de Stadt design. Built by the renowned Dutch Trintella Shipyard to very high standards w/ old world craftsmanship. Powerful world cruising yacht. Striking lines and beautiful interior. New Listing. $110,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
44’ Catalina 445 2011 Super clean! Comfortable accommodations; 3 cabins, 2heads. A/C. Easy to sail; furling main & headsail, electric winches. ICW Friendly. Shoal draft. Low hrs: Eng. 723, Gen. 204. New barrier coat May. Ready to go! $269,000 S&J Yachts, 843.872.8080, www.sjyachts.com
45’ Allures 45.9 2011 Aluminum centerboard bluewater cruiser combining performance, safety, & liveaboard comfort. Shoal draft versatility (max: 9’10”/ min: 3’5”), new canvas, new electronics, generator, diesel heat, & numerous recent upgrades. Ready to cruise anywhere. $430,000 S&J Yachts, 410.571.3605, www.sjyachts.com
45’ Beneteau Oceanis 45 2015 Stylish & versatile cruiser featuring performance, comfort, & ease of handling. 2-cabin layout, in-mast furling, & thoughtfully upgraded for effortless coastal or offshore cruising.
$320,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
46’ Bavaria Vision 46 2012 Wellmaintained, 1-owner boat: 3 cabin/2head layout. Built for extended cruising & shorthanded sailing. In-mast furling mainsail, autopilot, bow thrusters, & features the 5’7” shoal keel. $259,999 S&J Yachts, 410.571.3605, www.sjyachts.com
48’ Island Packet 485 2005 Exceptional IP 485 — bluewater-ready, beautifully maintained, & extensively equipped for world cruising. Cutter rig, center cockpit comfort, & classic craftsmanship built for adventure. $425,000 S&J Yachts, 410.571.3605, www.sjyachts.com
Beneteau 49 2007 Always loved, never chartered. 2 cabin layout, 5’9” shoal draft. Generator, bow thruster, electric winches, full enclosure, dinghy & outboard, clean & ready to go. $219,000 S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777, www.sjyachts.com
2000 Island Packet 420 Well-equipped w/ davits and clean - no visible cracks in gelcoat and solid wood interior. ICW friendly w/ shoal draft and ready to sail offshore. Now $285,500 Contact Rick: 443.294.5161, rstcyr@veteranyachtsales.com , www.veteranyachtsales.com
2023 Catalina 425 Cruise-ready w/ extensive factory options and offshore safety upgrades. Features solar arch, watermaker, Starlink-ready, generator, A/C, and more. Now $425,000 Contact Rick: 443.294.5161, rstcyr@veteranyachtsales.com , www.veteranyachtsales.com
Read boat reviews online at spinsheet.com
Anne & Jon Hutchings
17218 General Puller Hwy, Deltaville, VA Anne: 804-567-0092 | Jon: 804-567-0093 www.yazuyachting.com
30’ Maine Cat 30 2007 2 Cabin, 1 Head. New Garmin instruments. NMEA network. Full cockpit enclosure. 220W solar array. Roller-furling screecher w/ retractable bowsprit. Refrigeration/ freezer. (2) 2016 Yamaha 9.9Hp outboard engines w/ hydraulic trim/tilt (328 hours). $134,900 Deltaville, VA. Contact Matt Lambert 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
33’ Beneteau 331 2004 Best equipped B331 on the market. Watermaker, Solar, Aircon, Generator, Standing Rigging (2018), Rocna (2021), new chain (2025), Garmin Chartplotter & Radar. $65,000 Yorktown, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne @yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
37’ Beneteau 37 2015 3 Cabin, 1 Head. Reverse-cycle Air Cond. Refrigeration/ Freezer. New dodger. In-mast furling main. Roller furling genoa. Autopilot. Bowthruster. Only 425 engine hours! B&G Electronics. $149,000 Urbanna, VA. Contact Matt Lambert 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
Beneteau Oceanis 37 2013 Platinum Edition. Clean, lightly used (542 hours), 2 cabin. New bottom paint & hull compound & detail (10/25), Electric winch, Garhauer traveller (upgrade), Dodger 2022, Flexofold prop, Whisker pole. $139,000 Deltaville, VA. Call Anne Hutchings 804.567.0092 or anne@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
41’ Hunter 410 2000 2 Cabin, 2 Head. Large aft stateroom w/ queen berth. Separate shower in aft head. Reversecycle Air Cond. Refrigeration/Freezer. 5500W Generator. Autopilot. Stackpack w/ lazy jacks. Dinghy/ outboard. $109,000 Deltaville, VA. Contact Matt Lambert 804.432.9037 or matt@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
1
dinette. $349,900 Deltaville, VA. Call Jon Hutchings 804.567.0093 or jon@yazuyachting.com www.yazuyachting.com
Seaside Treasures – Bring the Coast Home Shop charming nautical, beach décor and more for your lake cottage or seaside home! A family-run business since 2001. Use coupon “SPINSHEET10” for 10% off! Visit online at www.SeasideTreasures.com or email ContactUs@SeasideTreasures.com!
Offshore Passage Opportunities Your Offshore Sailing Network. Celebrating thirty years helping sailors sail offshore for free. Learn by doing. Gain Quality Sea Time! Call 800.4.PASSAGe (800.472.7724). Keep the Dream Alive for the Price of a Good Winch Handle! Since 1993. admin@sailopo.com www.sailopo.com
Endurance Yacht Delivery Local and long distance. Twenty-five years of experience with clean insurance approved resume. Power and sail. Please call Captain Simon Edwards 410.212.9579 or email stredwards@gmail.com www.enduranceyachtdelivery.com
Advertising Sales Representative Are you on a search for a full-time sales position that requires you to get out and enjoy the water, where all your co-workers are super cool, and where flip-flops and shorts are considered business casual? SpinSheet, PropTalk, FishTalk, Start Sailing Now, and PortBook magazines are in growth mode, and we are looking for that special advertising sales rep who understands the marine industry and knows how to work and play hard. If you think you will excel in creating sales and marketing solutions for advertisers, then we would love to chat with you. Send your resume, a description of your boating experience and interests, and a cover letter telling us why you’d be a great fit for our team to mary@spf-360.com today!
Yacht Sales - Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. is hiring new salespeople for our Chesapeake area operation. Candidates must be honest, ethical and have boating experience. This is a commission only position. Contact Curtis Stokes at 410.919.4900 or curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net
Deepwater Slips for Sale & Rent
Harbor Condo Marina on western shore of Chesapeake in St. Leonard, MD. Slip sales & rentals 410.586.0070/ fhca@flagharbor.com. Storage & Repairs 410.586.1915/ flagharborservices@gmail.com www.flagharbor.com
AkzoNobel’s yacht coatings business has been named an EPIC Award winner at this year’s IBEX Show for setting the industry benchmark in training globally. Hundreds of marine industry leaders gathered for the ceremony in Tampa, FL, in October to celebrate organizations shaping the future of the industry through bold leadership, purposeful innovation, and a commitment to positive impact. The EPIC Awards (formerly the Most Innovative Company Awards) is an initiative curated by Soundings Trade Only to highlight the innovations that positively impact the industry, local communities, and the broader global marketplace. AkzoNobel was awarded for excellence in the ‘Training’ category, recognizing the launch of its new Yacht Paint Application Center (YPAC) in the Asia-Pacific region last October to deliver world-class product and technical training. The state-of-the-art facility, located in the world-renowned Gold Coast City Marina in Coomera, includes a mezzanine-level training room, paint mixing room, preparation bays, and an advanced spray booth, and serves as a hub for product education and professional training. Since its launch, the center has hosted multiple training sessions to upskill customers in the region. The YPAC joins AkzoNobel’s extensive portfolio of facilities across the globe, including centers in Southampton, California, and Florida—with the latter regularly training around 100 application professionals each year.
The EPIC Award also recognized the integration of AkzoNobel’s Virtual Reality (VR) Spray Gun technology into their tailored training programs. The technology is changing how expertise is delivered in yacht coatings by removing the need for liquid paint and saving approximately three liters of mixed product per trainee per square meter. Lucy Cater, regional marketing manager of North America at AkzoNobel’s Yacht coatings, said, “We’re proud to have our training excellence recognized by the EPIC Awards, reaffirming our commitment to our customers and our collaborative sustainability standards. This year alone, we’ve seen our customers benefit from our investment in training, and this recognition inspires us to continue setting new standards of innovation and craftsmanship across the global yacht coatings industry.” akzonobel.com
Suzuki Marine USA was also honored with an EPIC Award from the editors of Soundings Trade Only magazine. Suzuki Marine was chosen as an award winner for the ‘Sustainability’ category, which was established to “recognize projects that use inventive design to meaningfully reduce harm to the environment, and for developing products with consideration to endof-life cycles, a thoughtful utilization of materials for packaging, shipping, industrial design, and components.” Brandon Cerka, Suzuki Marine’s vice president of sales and marketing, says, “We are grateful for this honor and are pleased to see Suzuki Marine’s long-running dedication to sustainability recognized by the industry. Sustainability is not a one-time project at Suzuki Marine, it is a company-wide commitment. From the Micro Plastics Collecting Device on our outboard motors, to greatly reducing the use of plastics and sourcing more sustainable alternatives, to our focus on sustainable fuels, to cleaning up beaches and waterways across the country, Suzuki Marine is always looking for ways to improve. It’s great to see these efforts recognized, and we hope it provides a strong example for others in the boating industry to follow.” suzukimarine.com
Let’s give a warm welcome to these new SpinSheet distribution stops!
• Stony’s Dockside Bar and Grill in Norfolk, VA
• Molly’s Place in Kennedyville, MD
• Go Mart in Church Hill, MD
• Fairfield Inn and Suites Annapolis
• Residence Inn by Marriott Annapolis
• Shady Side Market in Shady Side, MD
Businesses or organizations wishing to distribute SpinSheet Magazine should contact the SpinSheet office, (410) 216-9309 or beatrice@spinsheet.com
Send your c hesapeake b ay business news and high-resolution photos to kaylie@spinsheet.com
To celebrate our 30th anniversary in 2025, we have shared snippets from the SpinSheet archives every month on this page. This ‘toon comes from our December 2006 issue.
Eastport sailor
David “Merf” Moerschel was not only a contributor of articles and a SpinSheet and PropTalk distribution driver, but he was also our team cartoonist. For many years Winch & Kent and their scruffy boat dog named Crabpot entertained SpinSheet readers with their salty Chesapeake shenanigans— mast climbing gone awry, sock burning fun, railmeat commentary, firing old flares for Fourth of July fireworks, and other misadventures.
Do you have a memory from SpinSheet in years past you’d like to share? Send it to editor@spinsheet.com
At Quantum Sails, the same world-class designers and advanced technology behind our Grand Prix victories power all of our sails Call your local loft to upgrade your sails and inquire about how our sail maintenance and fall service offerings can start your next season strong
