SpinSheet Magazine July 2026

ve things you should know about boat insurance

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.

24

Fireworks on the Chesapeake!

Fireworks shows and other Fourth of July festivities along the waterfront up and down the Bay.

38

Six Serendipities in Solomons

When an overnight stay turned into eight nights, this cruising couple appreciated Solomons more than ever.

By Captain Cheryl Duvall presented by Osprey Marine restOratiOn

40

From Dream to Reality: Bluewater Experiences of a Singlehanded Cruiser, Part 1

A Q&A with a cruiser truly “living the dream.”

By Captain Cheryl Duvall presented by M yacht services

44

Charter Notes: Discovering History on a Charter to the Nanticoke

Two Annapolis women follow the Capt. John Smith Chesapeake National Historical Trail up the Nanticoke River.

By Beth Crabtree

54

Summer Racing!

The Miles River Race, Down the Bay Race, Snipe Colonial Cup and Nationals, Annapolis Bermuda Ocean Race, and more amazing summer racing.

70

Small Boat Scene: Three Sneakily Powerful Words

Uncertainty is in a way the essence of sailboat racing.

By Kim Couranz

Ted Morgan took this month’s cover shot at the Snipe National Championship out of Severn Sailing Association June 14.

83 Chesapeake Classic: The USS Constellation’s

Chesapeake Dockside Services

Job Description:

Chesapeake Dockside Services’ recent growth surge means we need to hire a Certified Senior Marine Technician to not only service our client’s boats, but to also lead our maintenance team. Additionally, this Service Manager will also be responsible for establishing and maintaining the company’s vehicle fleet as follows:

Á Establish and maintain fleet and shop tool inventory monitoring program

Á Establish and maintain fleet service and maintenance monitoring program

Á Maintain company’s stock of service materials/inventory

Á This person will be part-time service tech, part time service manager and part-time process “engineer” manager.

Minimum Requirements: Á ABYC Systems Certified

Gas and or Diesel Engine experience Á Valid Driver’s License with a clean driving record Á Preferred: ABYC Certified Master Technician

612 Third Street, Suite 3C, Annapolis, MD 21403 (410) 216-9309 spinsheet.com

PUBLISHER

Mary Iliff Ewenson, mary@spinsheet.com

ASSOCIATE 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

DISTRIBUTION / BROKERAGE / CLASSIFIEDS MANAGER

Beatrice M. Mackenzie, beatrice@spinsheet.com

ART DIRECTOR / PRODUCTION MANAGER

Zach Ditmars, zach@spinsheet.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER / PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Royal Jackson, royal@spinsheet.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kim Couranz, Captain Cheryl Duvall, Jillian Greenawalt, Tom Guay, John Herlig, Eva Hill, Pamela Tenner Kellett, Craig Ligibel, Zuzana Prochazka, Steven Toole, Ed Weglein (Historian)

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Walter Cooper, Ben Cushwa, Mark Hergan, Will Keyworth, Ted Morgan, Al Schreitmueller, Cindy Wallach

DISTRIBUTION

Bob and Joann Bruffy, Jennifer and Al Diederichs, Shona Haven, Gregory and Dorothy Greenwell, Dave Harlock, Jim Persing, 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 or beatrice@spinsheet.com.

Got a New Boat?

New Horizons

By Molly Winans

In the summer of 1993, when I first laid eyes on the pretty Schooner Woodwind from the cockpit of one of Annapolis Sailing School’s Rainbow 24s, I remember thinking, “I hope they stay.” In my few years as an instructor by that point, I’d noticed that daysail charters didn’t seem to stick around for long. I liked sharing the harbor with the Woodwind. Spoiler alert: they stayed.

Years passed. The Woodwind II joined her sister ship. When I started with SpinSheet in 2006 (20 years ago this month!), I finally sailed onboard the 74foot vessel and became acquainted with the owners, Captains Jen and Ken, as well as Ellen Kaye, who worked in the office on the administrative side. These were and still are magnetic people. They tell corny, clean jokes. They attract friendly crew members. They sail fast, win schooner races, and most importantly, make people fall in love with sailing seven days a week.

After Capt. Jen’s parents retired, she ran the business with flair. As reported in SpinSheet, last fall she sold the business to (former Woodwind crew member) Andy Schell and Mia Karlsson of 59 North Sailing. Ryan Ellison is the new general manager. After training the new management team, last month, Jen officially retired, celebrated her birthday, and got married, all in one week.

Jen talks about a two-hour sail on the Woodwind as a “mental massage.” She says, “What I love about boating is how it brings people together.” And boy, has this family business brought people together.

Susan Branigan says, “I’ve had the chance to join the Woodwind cruises dozens of times and also sailed down the Chesapeake on Woodwind in the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race with Jen, her father, and some of the crew. Jen has incredible enthusiasm for what she does, whether it’s teaching a little about the boats or the Bay, or racing as hard as she is able. I am not a natural sailor, having been

raised in the Midwest, but the schooner experiences inspired me to learn more about sailing… I’m incredibly grateful for what she and her family have brought to me and to all of Annapolis with the Woodwind cruises.”

In 2008, “on the whim of all whims,” Katie Nash Googled “sailing jobs.”

“I was this country girl who thought I could sail because I’d had a Sunfish. Jen and her dad interviewed me and said, ‘We’ll teach you how to sail.’ They did, and it changed my life.”

Not only did Katie get the job, but she also met her future husband, Brady White, when he joined the crew. They now have a son, Jimmy (9), and race a J/22.

Katie says, “Jen has a light about her she shares abundantly. She’s always reached out to us and kept us connected.”

I, and dozens of others, have asked Jen if her big life change was “bittersweet.”

“Not bittersweet,” she says, “but really sweet. Andy and Ryan threw a huge party for us, and it was a great send-off for my family... The future of Woodwind is very bright, and they’re having a great year.”

Capt. Jen has launched her own 100-day challenge, all on other people’s boats! At print time, she crossed the start line on her first Newport Bermuda Race. We wish her fair winds and an exciting adventure. Thank you to Captain Jen and the Kaye family for starting the Woodwind sailing tradition, one with true staying power.

See you on the water!

SpinSheet Guy in the BVI

Ihave a funny story for you. My wife Sandy and I found ourselves at Blackbeard’s Castle on St. Thomas recently (after a seven-day British Virgin Islands charter), and we got the free rum punch, sat and enjoyed the view, and decided to get another cocktail before heading down the hill. I ordered the Bushwacker, Sandy the Lime in the Coconut. The bartender upon trying to cash me out said the machine was down, and that she would just open a tab using the name on my shirt. I was wearing my SpinSheet Racing Team (powered by Team One Newport) and she put “SpinSheet” as the name as can be seen on the receipt. We enjoyed our drinks and later returned from 85 degrees and sunny to a rainy 60 degrees in Maryland.

SpinSheet in Tampa Bay

Charles Stone sent us his photo with this note: “As promised, sailing on Tampa Bay with SpinSheet. Eightyfive degrees and 10 knots of wind.”

Jeff Thompson

Skymark at Middle Ground Light

Tim Dull sent us this cool photo of his Tartan 34C Skymark at Middle Ground Light.

Submit Your Photo to our Contest by July 10

For the 2026 SpinSheet Summer Cover Contest, submit your Chesapeake summer sailing photo through July 10. Here are tips:

• Vertical photos work best, with room for our header and cover lines.

• Only high-resolution (i.e. not blurry) photos will be considered for the cover.

• Before we open up the contest for reader voting July 11, our graphic design team will filter out photos that are blurry, the wrong shape, not summery, not taken on sailboats, or depicting children without lifejackets on boats. If your photo disappears before reader voting, it did not make it through these filters.

• New in 2026: anyone may enter the contest unless they have won it previously! We have run this contest for 15 years and have had several two- or three-time winners. It’s time to give other sailor-photographers a fighting chance.

• By entering you will be subscribed to our email newsletters. You may update your preferences at any time.

Enter your photo at spinsheet.com/cover-contest. Reader voting will take place from July 11-17.

Send your questions, comments and stories to editor@spinsheet.com

Let’s Celebrate!

Sail250 and Other 250th Anniversary Events

By the time you read this issue of SpinSheet, the Sail250 Virginia festivities will have ended as will have most of the Sail250 Maryland and Air Show Baltimore events. If you missed them, know that you could still head to Baltimore to tour tall ships from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 29 (some ships depart that day) and watch the rest of the fleet depart on July 1.

But wait… there’s more! If you haven’t had enough historic sailing ships yet, you may head to New York Harbor to celebrate America’s 250th birthday on July 4, when the world’s most magnificent tall ships and gray hull ships will sail. In the tradition of the 1976 Bicentennial, the Statue of Liberty Centennial in 1986, the Columbus Quincentennial in 1992, the Millennium celebration in 2000, and the Bicentennial of The Star-Spangled Banner in 2012, international fleets will arrive in grand style and spend a week.

Over the course of the week, visitors will find spectator anchorages, multiple ship parades, public viewing of ships, historic ship and sightseeing cruises, and a tall ship race to the next and final port of call: Boston! The tall ships will be in Boston Harbor for Sail Boston from July 11 to 16. Learn more about all remaining Sail250 events at sail250.org

As a former nation’s capital, the current Maryland state capital, and the place the Treaty of Paris was signed, Annapolis will host 250th events galore. As reported in SpinSheet’s May issue, the Be Revolutionary: America 250 Exploration Trail, a self-guided tour of more than 50 cultural, historic, and community sites is available to visi-

tors and residents (sign up through the portal at vaaac.org or scan a QR code displayed on one of the interpretive panels; it’s free with no app download required).

Also self-guided is the Drink Like a Revolutionary tour, a listing by neighborhood of the many pubs of Annapolis and vicinity and their historic significance. There are more than a dozen on the list, so it’s a long-term project rather than a weekend event (visitannapolis.org/america-250-annapolis).

On July 3 and 4, events include a large outdoor movie screening of

“Hamilton;” a West Annapolis bike parade for kids; parades through downtown Annapolis, Eastport, and Galesville; a scavenger hunt at the Maryland State House, performances and live music; familyfriendly storytelling; historic reenactments; and a food festival featuring local vendors.

Of course, boaters and landlubbers will enjoy a spectacular fireworks display off the Naval Academy in Annapolis Harbor. For more fireworks and Fourth of July festivities—from the top of the Chesapeake down to Norfolk and top destinations in between, including Washington, DC— find our full guide on page 24.

INTRODUCING THE NEX GEN II MODELS 359 AND 459

ISLAND PACKET CONTINUES TO INNOVATE

The Next Generation II Series (“NEX GEN II”) started with the 42’ Motor Sailer, The new Island Packet 359 AND 459 Models represent the latest iterations of the NEX GEN II Fleet. The success of their first generation predecessors, along with the input and support of our owner’s, inspired our team to take these models to the next level. The changes are many but you can always rest assured the we stay committed to the core values of safety and quality. A few highlights of our NEX GEN II Series include 30” lifeline stanchions or optional 30” SS exterior solid hand rails, updated fiberglass hull grid system resulting in even better hull support, new transom design that provides even better accessibility. Also, standard will include 24-Volt lithium batteries and systems along with 5000 Watt inverter for HVAC, induction galley, etc. We have added Cherry to our wood choices of Light Maple or Sapele.

For a complete list and more information on the 359, 459 or the 42’ Motor Sailer, please contact us via our website, email or a direct phone call.

We look forward to hearing from you and sharing the excitement! Proudly

the USA.

CRAB Hosts a Spectacular Spring Recovering Warrior Sailing Regatta

The Spring Recovering Warrior Sailing Regatta (RWSR), sponsored by Move United, was one of Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating’s (CRAB) best in many years. The six warriors raced in perfect weather conditions with 10- to 13-mph winds from the south. One-foot seas, plus two- to three-foot boat wakes, hardly bothered the valiant warriors during five tough races out on the Bay.

To start the event with the proper pomp and circumstance, CRAB’s very own Joel McCord played a solo rendition of the “National Anthem” on his trumpet. He played a gig the previous evening and was still on his “A-game” for the warriors.

CRAB president Paul “Bo” Bollinger served as the PRO for the regatta, and the race committee members were Tom French and Mitch Buchman doing the scoring and “Admiral” Elizabeth Bollinger taking photos at the start and fin-

ish line. Fleet director Leo Scanlon drove the mark boat along with Allan Adamson, who provided some excellent on-water photography, which can be viewed on the CRAB Facebook page and website. The course started off the Chesapeake Harbour Community and included a windward first leg, a downwind second leg, and a nice beat for the finish line. The course was efficiently set by the race committee, with most races completed within 15 to 17 minutes.

Back at the CRAB Adaptive Boating Center (ABC), a complimentary lunch was provided by Mission BBQ and served by volunteers. The final scoring was exceptionally

close with only one point separating first from second place.

First place went to Richard Krotee, a long-time sailor at CRAB, with Ed Riehl as the CRAB volunteer skipper and Mimi Englesman as crew. Second Place was earned by Rear Admiral (ret) Tim McGee and his regular CRAB volunteer USNA crewmate, Paul Van Cleve, and Maude Laurence. Third place went to Bill Yurek with Dillion Hale and Ken Weise sailing with him. The highly coveted Spirit Award was awarded to Jackie Kostas for her enthusiasm throughout the regatta and leading up to the event.

We are looking forward to a great RWSR with the US Naval Academy in September! Please be on the lookout for warriors who want to sail in a wonderful and rewarding event.

Learn more at crabsailing.org.

Discover Emblems of America Exhibit at CBMM

In celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM) debuted its latest special exhibition, Emblems of America, last month. Guests may view it all summer.

Centered in the Van Lennep Auditorium, the exhibit highlights the use of patriotic imagery on trailboards, figureheads, and other marine carvings in CBMM’s collection. Emblems of America explores the rich folk art tradition of Chesapeake marine carvings through icons of Americana such as eagles, the Stars and Stripes, and the colors red, white, and blue, offering a new perspective on familiar objects. An interactive “find-it” activity builds on this theme by encouraging guests to locate patriotic iconography within the exhibition and across CBMM’s waterfront campus.

“Looking around our campus, it’s easy to spot these emblems,” said assis-

tant curator Gabriella Cantelmo, who curated the exhibition. “This exhibition takes a closer look at why they were created and what they mean to the people who encounter them on the Bay. These objects and their stories reveal how generations of Americans have expressed patriotism and identity through maritime art and craftsmanship.”

Guests will learn about the distinct types of maritime carvings that ornament skipjacks, log canoes, and bugeyes. These include three-dimensional figureheads (locally called “eagleheads”), nameboards, cheek boards, and gilded trailboards. These carvings are so highly prized by skipjack captains that they are often removed for safekeeping during the offseason.

Beyond the carvings featured in the auditorium, the exhibition showcases ad-

ditional artifacts and photographs from CBMM’s collection, some of which are on display across campus. It also highlights stories of local carvers, including Captain Dewey H. Webster of Deal Island, whose mid-20th-century template defined the iconic look of skipjacks like CBMM’s own Rosie Parks and frequent campus visitor H.M. Krentz, and Dr. Ed Thieler, a CBMM volunteer who carved highly detailed reproductions.

CBMM will also open its next long-term exhibition, Stories from the Shoreline, on July 1, with a campuswide opening celebration on Saturday, July 18. Visit cbmm.org/events to learn more.

New Galesville Festival To Celebrate Chesapeake Culture

Anew Chesapeake Bay tradition is coming to the West River this fall as the inaugural Galesville Maritime Heritage Festival launches on Saturday, October 3, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the historic waterfront village of Galesville. Presented by the Galesville Heritage Society (GHS), the free, family-friendly festival will celebrate the rich maritime traditions, boatbuilding heritage, and waterfront culture that have shaped the village for generations.

Festival activities will take place throughout Galesville and along the waterfront, featuring:

• Narrated boat tours on the West River.

• A midday parade of classic and antique boats.

• Watermen’s demonstrations and traditional fishing exhibits.

• Children’s maritime discovery activities at the West River Sailing Club.

• Live music on the waterfront.

• Maritime exhibits and author talks at the museum.

• Local food, farmers market, specials at local restaurants.

The festival will also highlight Galesville’s unique role in Chesapeake history. A port of entry since 1672, the village became known for its working waterfront, seafood industry, boatbuilding traditions, and connections to the Chesapeake Bay sailing community.

“We want people to experience Galesville not just as a destination, but as a living waterfront village with deep roots in Chesapeake culture,” Kathy Bergren Smith, festival chair said. “This festival is about celebrating the people, traditions, and stories that make this place special.”

YThe event will include opportunities for visitors to explore historic sites connected to the region’s maritime past, including the legacy of the Hartge family boatyard and a boat trip to the Revolutionary War-era Steward shipyard site.

Organizers expect the festival to attract boaters, history enthusiasts, families, photographers, and Chesapeake culture supporters from throughout the region. Admission is free. For updates and additional information, visit galesvillemaritimefestival.org or follow the GHS on Facebook.

Join the PropTalk See the Bay Challenge!

ou may have heard of PropTalk’s new program: the See the Bay Challenge. It is for anyone and everyone around the Chesapeake Bay region, whether you are a sailor, powerboater, angler, paddler, or landlubber.

The goal is to encourage participants to explore the many wonderful towns around the Bay and support local businesses. You get points for each place you visit. Locations include waterfront restaurants, coffee shops, maritime museums, and lighthouses. We will continue to add stops throughout the summer.

Here’s how it works:

• Visit proptalk.com/bay-challenge to register.

• The challenge runs from May 15 to October 15.

• Cost: $10 (helps cover the cost of the program and shipping prizes).

• Check in using the See the Bay Challenge map on Proxi. This is a web-based application, so no app download is required. You may use it on your phone or on the computer.

• When visiting a location, take a selfie that clearly shows you are at that location (i.e. with a restaurant menu, in front of a sign, etc.). If you do not want your face in the photo, grab a copy of PropTalk Magazine and take a photo of it at the location.

• You may visit locations multiple times, but only one check-in per location, per day is allowed.

• We will verify each photo and reserve the right to disqualify any photo that appears fraudulent.

• Whether visiting locations by car or by boat, always be sure to take along a designated skipper or driver; safety is paramount.

At the end of the challenge, everyone who logs 25 approved points will win a PropTalk See the Bay Challenge T-shirt. We will also award two grand prizes to the person who logs the most points and the person who visits the most places. We are still finalizing details with our prize sponsors, but both grand prizes will include an insulated hard-sided cooler, a bottle of Costa Tequila, and restaurant gift cards.

So, are you up to the challenge? Sign up at proptalk.com, invite your friends and family, and make the most of your summer on the Bay.

On a sunny day in late May, Sails of Hope Chesapeake (SOHC) had the pleasure of taking Samuel Allen and his family on a private, three-hour sail on the Chesapeake Bay. Sam is a 10-year-old who is two and a half years into his treatment for leukemia and loves being on the water. His mom discovered SOHC through the Cool Kids Campaign, which is devoted to improving the quality of life for pediatric oncology patients. SOHC provides sailing experiences that offer hope, healing, renewal, and joy to those being challenged by cancer.

Under a reefed main sail, with the wind gusting to 23 knots and lots of white caps, Sam guided Anneliese, SOHC’s 40-foot Beneteau, under the Bay Bridge. His older brother Jonah steered the boat back under the bridge, and younger brother Eli also took turns at the helm. The brothers

with their mom and dad enjoyed lunch onboard and spending time on the bow appreciating a beautiful day on the Bay.

At the end of the sail, Sam said, “We had a great time on the boat.”

His mom Anna wrote, “Thank you for an incredible day on the water! Few things are more tranquil than a day spent this way! And thank you for inspiring our boys to learn to sail.”

SOHC’s president and lead captain, Vicki Saporta, says the organization is pleased to partner with many health care and other organizations, such as Cool Kids, so that many more individuals and their loved ones can benefit from the joys of sailing. She looks forward to serving more than 600 guests on 140 sails this season.

To nominate someone of any age challenged by cancer for a free, private three-hour sail, go to sailsofhopechesapeake.org. SOHC will contact the nominee to schedule their sail.

Clipper Round the World Yacht Race Stopover at the Wharf

When the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race stops in Washington, DC, a substantial crowd arrives to tour the yachts. Shayne Wells, VP of communications from Events DC, who hosts the eponymous yacht and the stopover festivities, notes that in 2024, they gave more boat tours than any other stopover in the race. This year’s stopover took place June 18-20 at Fleet Week at the Wharf.

Followers of the race may be familiar with the “open to all” aspect of it; anyone, with any amount of sailing experience, can pay to be a crew member for one or more legs of the eight-leg, 40,000-mile race, or all of it. Sailors complete an intense month-long training program before setting sail on the 70-foot racing yachts with two professional captains each. (Find details in our interview with Ella Hebron, skipper of Team Washington DC, at spinsheet.com).

Aboard the Events DC yacht, I interviewed Ieva Notturno, who was sailing the entire race (which Clipper insiders call a “round-the-worlder,” as opposed to a “legger” for sailing individual legs only).

A DC resident, Notturno learned to sail 10 years ago at J/World Annapolis Sailing School and Chesapeake Boating Club. She also did an “inspiring” Caribbean flotilla charter with J/World.

Notturno says, “I’m sailing for three reasons: 1) to become a better sailor,

through real experiences, not more courses; 2) I wanted a great adventure in life and am grateful to have the time and opportunity; and 3) to meet more people who are sailors and adventurers. I have met all of my goals on every leg!”

The hardest leg for her thus far has been the Southern Ocean. She says, “It was 30 days long, with very strong winds (40 knots or so), big seas, the relentlessness of waves, grey skies, and it was cold!”

A “glory moment” for Notturno also took place on that leg: “We were tired, cold, and wet about two weeks in, (we saw) the sunrise! The clouds finally parted. The sea calmed a bit. We saw albatrosses. We had a sense of overcoming things together. Everyone was so kind, compassionate, and felt a sense of achievement.”

Another round-the-worlder from the DC region, Jay Gonchigar, had always been fascinated by sailing but took a circuitous route to get there, including almost buying a sailboat at the Annapolis Sailboat Show (before learning to sail), owning a 28-foot sailboat (he never got comfortable with), a big powerboat, and later a 55-foot sailboat.

“When I heard the race boats were here in DC two years ago, I came down to see them. I kept asking questions and more questions. The recruiting guy was here, so I told him I wanted to do the whole thing.”

He crammed in quite a bit of training before the Clipper training in Portsmouth, including a full range of ASA classes and crewing on a couple of boats, including a leg of the World ARC, and earning his ICC Certificate.

For Gonchigar, the people and varied personalities onboard are the biggest challenges, as there can be high turnover with new “leggers” for each leg. Overall, he says, “I did this race to test my psychological endurance more than anything.”

I chatted with Wells just before the gates opened and the crowd flooded in to tour the yachts. He says, “Events DC loves hosting hundreds of sailors who have crossed the globe. We are able to showcase the city. We’re a global destination united by different cultures, and the Clipper is indicative of that.” ~M.W. Learn more at clipperroundtheworld. com and eventsdc.com

Bob Greenfield (1925 - 2026)

Baltimore sailor Robert E. Greenfield, 100, passed away peacefully on April 10 at Roland Park Place. Bob was born in Chicago, IL, on May 29, 1925, to Horace and Elizabeth (Bell) Greenfield. With his parents he moved to various places before settling in the Rochester, NY, area. He graduated from the Harley School in 1943, served in the European theater of World War II, and attended the University of Rochester, graduating in 1950. He also served in Japan in the Korean War after which he attended the University of Michigan where he received a degree in Library Science in 1952.

After accepting a position with the Enoch Pratt Free Library, he came to Baltimore in July of that year. He served as a young adult librarian and branch manager until 1961 and later as a branch manager with the Baltimore County Public Library, where he served until his retirement in 1980. Following that he served as a parish administrator at Emmanuel

Episcopal Church and as executive secretary of the Maryland Library Association, retiring once again in 1989. Since his retirement he traveled extensively, including several bicycle trips in Europe, Bermuda, and Nova Scotia.

While always interested in music his big interest (and reason for staying in Maryland) was sailing. He owned and skippered nine different sailboats, the last of which he donated to the Downtown Sailing Center (DSC). He raced and cruised extensively during his periods of ownership and stayed active with the DSC and the Baltimore City Yachting Association (BCYA). He was also a life member of the Glenmar Sailing Association for which he served as commodore for three terms.

Fellow BCYA volunteer, Mary Lees Gunther, says, “I have known Bob my whole life through sailboat racing, race committee duties, and years of friendship with my parents. He could be quirky, opinionated, and absolutely meticulous when it came to race committee procedures. Rules mattered to him because he respected the sport and the sailors who loved it.  He will be missed!”

Fourth of July Fireworks and Festivities

Below you will find our list Fourth of July festivities along the waterfront. Check event websites for updates or weather cancellations. We will also continue to update our list at spinsheet.com/calendar. If we missed your favorite event, email editor@spinsheet.com.

Wednesday, July 1

Kent Narrows, MD: Queen Anne’s County’s annual fireworks show is scheduled for July 1 with a rain date of July 2 (only fireworks will be rescheduled; all other activities will be canceled). Located at the Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center; event opens at 6 p.m. Fireworks launch at 9:15 p.m. Find food trucks, live music, and plenty of activities for children. Free parking at the old Kent Narrows outlets (handicap parking is available). qac.org

Friday, July 3

Chesapeake Beach, MD: Festivities begin at 5 p.m. at Kellam’s Field Complex and include live entertainment, food trucks and sweet treats, family-friendly activities, and more. Fireworks will launch from barges in the Chesapeake Bay near Veterans’ Memorial Park at dusk (approximately 9 p.m.). chesapeakebeachmd.gov

Irvington, VA: On July 3, the Rappahannock River Yacht Club will host a patriotic decorated boat parade on Carters Creek beginning at 2 p.m. to celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary. Boats will gather near Custom Yachts, cruise past The Tides Inn into the western branch of Carters Creek, and return to eastern branch near Custom Yachts. irvingtonva.gov

North East, MD: The 35th annual Salute to Cecil County Veterans and fireworks show returns to North East Community Park from 4 to 10 p.m. This free, family-friendly event includes food vendors, community organizations, live music, and activities for all ages. A fireworks show over the North East River at dusk will close out the night. stoccv.org

Oxford, MD: The Oxford fireworks show celebrates Independence Day on the “Strand.” Bring your lawn chair and get a spot early! oxfordmd.gov

Rock Hall, MD: Fireworks over the harbor at 9 p.m. Parade at 10 a.m. the next day. rockhallmd.com

Saturday, July 4

Annapolis, MD: Get ready for a full day of events, including the West Annapolis Bike Parade at 9 a.m., a food festival with local vendors beginning at 11:45 a.m. at People’s Park, a Fourth of July Festival with Historic Annapolis, the City of Annapolis Downtown Parade at 6:30 p.m., the USNA Electric Brigade Concert on the State House Grounds at 7:45 p.m., and more. Fireworks over Spa Creek begin around 9:15 p.m. visitannapolis.org

Baltimore, MD: The celebration kicks off at the Inner Harbor Amphitheatre at 6 p.m., followed by a live band performance from Avenue 66 along the Waterfront Promenade, where the fireworks show takes place at 9 p.m. At 9:30 there will be a drone show at Middle Branch Park. baltimore.org

Cambridge, MD: Watch fireworks over the Choptank River at dusk (a little after 9 p.m.). Bring your own blankets and chairs, snacks, and bug spray. View from Long Wharf (High and Water Streets), Gerry Boyle Park at Great Marsh (at the end of Somerset Avenue at the Choptank River), or Cambridge Harbor (next to the Dorchester County Visitor Center). visitdorchester.org

Drayden, MD: Dennis Point Marina and Campground will host a USA 250th celebration from 5 to 10 p.m. with food, music, games, and a fireworks display. Cost: $20 per vehicle. dennispointmd.com

Easton, MD: Celebrate summer in Easton with a classic hometown carnival capped by a star-spangled July 4th fireworks show. Plan to arrive early on July 4 to secure a good viewing spot near the designated launch area. tourtalbot.org

Irvington, VA: The Irvington Fourth of July Hometown Parade takes place at 3 p.m. on King Carter Drive. irvingtonva.gov

Kinsale, VA: Find live music, food, and drinks at The Slips, where the crowd gathers to celebrate the 4th of July and watch fireworks launched at 9:15 p.m. over the Yeocomico River. the-slips.com/july-4th

Middle River: The Fireworks Extravaganza over Middle River has become a cherished tradition bringing the community together. Visit mtabc.org for more information/to make a donation. Weather may affect start time. No rain date. No public viewing location.

Newport News, VA: 6 to 9:15 p.m. at Victory Landing Park. Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m. and can be seen over the James River. visitnewportnews.com

Norfolk, VA: 5 to 10 p.m. at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. The free event begins with live patriotic music, food, and family-friendly activities, followed by a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. high above the Elizabeth River. Also featuring a wide variety of all-American fare, including hot dogs, hamburgers, barbecue, seafood, cotton candy, and more. festevents.org

Ocean City, MD: Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States at two locations: N. Division Street and Northside Park. The fun kicks off at N. Division Street with live music acts at 6, 7, and 8 p.m. Guests can enjoy music at Northside Park beginning at 8 p.m. followed by a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m. ococean.com

Solomons, MD: Join the family-friendly celebration from 4 to 10 p.m. featuring live entertainment, more than 30 vendors, inflatables and bounce houses, face painting... and a fireworks finale. Find details at solomonsmaryland.org and calvertcountymd.gov/ calendar. For the Solomons Island Fourth of July Boat Parade dress up your boat and join in on the fun. The starting cannon will sound at 12 p.m. sharp on Mill Creek in Solomons at 38.331264 x 76.450065. No registration, just jump in behind the last boat and form a line. Stay on channel 68 for the duration of the parade.

Virginia Beach, VA: The Stars and Stripes Celebration kicks off at 7 p.m. at the 17th, 24th, and 31st Street Parks. Live concerts at each location followed by an oceanfront fireworks display (24th Street) at 9:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. virginiabeach.gov

Washington, DC: A full day of programming on the National Mall culminates in a massive pyrotechnics display. America’s National Independence Day Parade starts at 10:30 a.m. at 3rd St. and Constitution Ave. The annual concert event, A Capitol Fourth, will move to July 3 to kick off a weekend of celebrations. washington.org

Yorktown, VA: A full day of patriotic festivities, featuring a spirited parade through the village, a traditional bell ringing ceremony marking the historic call for liberty, a lively outdoor concert, and a spectacular fireworks display over the York River at 9:15 p.m. visityorktown.org

Sunday, July 5

Chesapeake City, MD: Free family fun event in Pell Gardens with food and craft vendors and live music starting at 5 p.m. The fireworks will start at dark (approximately 9:30 p.m.) from the hill behind Schaefer’s. Plenty of free parking at the old elementary school. chesapeakecity.com

Havre de Grace, MD: 2 p.m. parade down Union Avenue, 7:30 p.m. concert at Concord Point Park, and fireworks over the Susquehanna River at 9:15 p.m. hdgjuly4th.com

St. Michaels, MD: The Children’s Parade will kick off the celebration, beginning at 10 a.m. Patriotic dress is encouraged for kids, bicycles, tricycles, wagons, and pets! The main event is on July 5 when fireworks will light up St. Michaels Harbor shortly after dusk. You can also purchase tickets to attend the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Big Band Night from 6 to 10 p.m. with live music, dancing, and a great vantage point to see the fireworks. cbmm.org

1 Queen Anne’s County Independence Day Celebration

Located at the Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center; event opens at 6 p.m. Fireworks launch at 9:15 p.m. Food trucks will be available with food and drinks to purchase. There will be live music and plenty of activities for children. Rain date July 2.

2 AMM Tides and Tunes Concert Series

7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Free; donations greatly appreciated. Live music by The Grilled Lincolns. Food and drinks available for purchase. Zero waste event; bring or buy a cup. Bring a chair or blanket; no dogs. No parking onsite.

3 Chesapeake Beach Independence Day Celebration  Festivities begin at 5 p.m. at Kellam’s Field Complex and include a full evening of fun. Fireworks are launched from barges in the Chesapeake Bay near Veterans Memorial Park at dusk (approximately 9 p.m.).

3 Oxford Fireworks  Celebrate Independence Day on the Strand, the beautiful riverside street along the Tred Avon River. Fireworks begin at dusk.

July

3 Rappahannock Patriotic Decorated Boat Parade  Presented by Rappahannock River Yacht Club on Carters Creek in Irvington, VA. Parade will be begin at 2 p.m. Boats will gather near Custom Yachts. The parade will cruise past The Tides Inn into the western branch of Carters Creek and return to eastern branch near Custom Yachts.

3 Rock Hall Fireworks  9 p.m. over the harbor in Rock Hall, MD.

3 Salute to Cecil County Veterans  4 to 10 p.m. at North East Community Park in North East, MD. Free, family-friendly event to honor the men and women who have served our country. A spectacular fireworks show over the North East River at dusk will close out the night.

4 15th annual Solomons Fourth of July Boat Parade  Show your American pride and dress up your boat or you person and join in on the fun. The starting cannon will sound at 12 p.m. sharp on Mill Creek in Solomons at 38.331264 x 76.450065. There is no registration just jump in behind the last boat and form a line. Stay on channel 68 for the duration of the parade. All are welcome to join, just please follow all navigational aids and rules of the road. Safety first. Share your boat photos on the Facebook page Solomons Island 4th of July Boat Parade.

4 America 250 Middle River Fireworks Extravaganza

View the most spectacular waterfront fireworks show on the Chesapeake Bay. Weather may affect start time. No rain date. No public viewing location.

4 Annapolis Fourth of July

Get ready for a full day of events culminating in fireworks over Spa Creek at approximately 9:15 p.m.

4 Cambridge Fireworks

Watch a beautiful display of fireworks over the Choptank River at dusk (a little after 9 p.m.).

4 Easton Fireworks

On July 4th, the Easton Carnival will kick-off with live music at 7 p.m., followed by opening ceremonies at 7:30 p.m., and fireworks after dusk. In the event of rain, the fireworks will be pushed to July 5th.

4 Fourth of July in Baltimore

The fireworks show at the Waterfront Promenade takes place at 9 p.m., and at 9:30 there will be a drone show at Middle Branch Park.

4 Fourth of July in Kinsale

Get ready for live music, food, and drinks at The Slips, where the crowd gathers to celebrate the 4th of July and watch fireworks launched at 9:15 p.m. over the Yeocomico River in Kinsale, VA.

4

Fourth of July in Solomons

Organizers are adding a second fireworks barge and launching twice as many fireworks for an unforgettable display over the Patuxent River. Join the celebration July 4 from 4 to 10 p.m. for a full day of family fun.

4

Fourth of July in Washington, DC

A full day of programming on the National Mall culminating in a massive pyrotechnics display. America’s National Independence Day Parade starts at 10:30 a.m. at 3rd St. and Constitution Ave.

4 Newport News Stars in the Sky  6 to 9:15 p.m. at Victory Landing Park. Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m. and can be seen over the James River. Live performances, photo booth, face painting patriotic games, and more.

4 Norfolk Fourth of July Great American Picnic

5 to 10 p.m. at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. Free and open to the public. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. high above the Elizabeth River.

4 USA 250th at Dennis Point  Dennis Point Marina and Campground will host a USA 250th celebration from 5 to 10 p.m. Cost: $20 per vehicle.

4 Yorktown Independence Day Celebration

A full day of patriotic festivities honoring the nation’s independence culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the York River at 9:15 p.m.

5 Big Band Night at CBMM  6 to 10 p.m. at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. Music, dancing, fireworks, and fun for the whole family. Ticketed event.

5 Chesapeake City Fireworks  Free family fun event in Pell Gardens with food and craft vendors and live music starting at 5 p.m. The fireworks will start at dark (approximately 9:30 p.m.) and will be shot off from the hill behind Schaefer’s.

5 Havre de Grace Independence Day  2 p.m. parade down Union Avenue, 7:30 p.m. concert at Concord Point Park, and fireworks over the Susquehanna River at 9:15 p.m.

st 7-9, 2026 Augu

Come by land or sea to the Town of Rock Hall for a Pirates & Wenches Theme Party you won't soon forget

July

(cont.)

8 Back Creek Yacht Club July Happy Hour

At Pirates Cove Restaurant in Galesville, MD, at 5 p.m.

9 AMM Tides and Tunes Concert Series

7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Free; donations greatly appreciated. Live music by One Night Only.

10-19 Plein Air Easton

Juried artists travel from around the country to Talbot County to create art outdoors rather than working in a studio. Free public events all over Easton, MD. Hosted by the Avalon Foundation.

11 Anne Arundel County River Days

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis. All events are free and open to the public. Each festival will feature fun activities for all ages, including boat rides, water activities, environmental educators, live music, games, crafts, food trucks, and more. Boat rides are free, but capacity is limited and tickets will be available first come, first served.

11 Chesapeake City Antique and Classic Boat Show

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Chesapeake City, MD. Boats located at Chesapeake Inn Marina (B Dock) and Pell Gardens. Nautical vendors, crafts, and hopefully swap meets.

16 AMM Tides and Tunes Concert Series

7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Free; donations greatly appreciated. Live music by Timmie Metz Band.

23

AMM Tides and Tunes Concert Series

7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Free; donations greatly appreciated. Live music by Sweet Leda.

25 Bay Paddle

An epic day of paddle races and a festival to celebrate and help protect the Chesapeake Bay. Welcomes SUP, OC, kayak, canoe, surfski. Hosted by Kent Island Outrigger Canoe Club, Kent Island, MD.

30

AMM Tides and Tunes Concert Series

7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Free; donations greatly appreciated. Live music by John Frase Project.

July Racing

10 Hobie Fleet 32 Friday Night Beach Cat Series Begins

Hosted by Broad Bay Sailing Association.

10-11

EYC Boomerang Race

Hosted by Eastport YC, Annapolis, MD.

11

HHSA Women’s Race

Hosted by Herrington Harbour Sailing Association, North Beach, MD.

11

OPCYC Yankee Station Series 3

Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.

11

SMSA Sharps Island Race

Hosted by Southern Maryland Sailing Association, Solomons, MD.

11

Special Olympics Regatta at CRAB

With Special Olympics MD, VA, and Anne Arundel County at the Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB) Adaptive Boating Center in Annapolis.

11-12 CRYC Log Canoe Series

Hosted by the Chester River Yacht and Country Club and Corsica River YC, Centreville, MD.

17-19

SMSA Patuxent Pursuit Race

Hosted by Southern Maryland Sailing Association, Solomons, MD.

18

BCYA Race to Baltimore  Hosted by the Baltimore City Yacht Association.

18-19

Olivia’s Team Race Invitational

Hosted by Severn Sailing Association, Annapolis, MD.

18-19

RHYC Log Canoe Series

Hosted by Rock Hall YC, Rock Hall, MD.

18-19

Admiral Byrd One Design Regatta

Hosted by Cambridge Yacht Club. Classes: Albacores, Flying Scots, C420s, Hamptons, Lasers (ILCA7), Optimist (Green), Penguins, A Cat, and Shields. Questions? Contact sailing@cambridgeyachtclub.com

25-26 AYC Annual Regatta  Hosted by Annapolis YC.

25-26 CRYC One Design Regatta

The 84th annual, hosted by the Corsica River Yacht Club, Centreville, MD.

25-26 MRYC Log Canoe Boardman’s Challenge and Governor’s Cup  Hosted by Miles River YC, St. Michaels, MD.

26 McCarthy’s Sprints  Hosted by Hampton YC, Hampton, VA.

31 - Aug 1

Governor’s Cup Yacht Race  Hosted by St. Mary’s College of Maryland, St. Mary’s City, MD.

August

6 AMM Tides and Tunes Concert Series

7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Free; donations greatly appreciated. Live music by Honest Lee Soul. Food and drinks available for purchase. Zero waste event; bring or buy a cup. Bring a chair or blanket; no dogs. No parking onsite.

7-9 Pirates and Wenches Weekend

A town-wide family friendly event in Rock Hall, MD. Rum tasting, sea shanty singalong, dinghy parade and poker run, live music, kids treasure dig, Buccaneers Ball, and more.

August (cont.)

9 Watermen’s Appreciation Day

Held in partnership with the Talbot Watermen Association at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. this annual celebration honors the hardworking men and women who bring the Bay’s bounty to our tables. The festivities include a must-see workboat docking competition, live music, a locally harvested crab feast, with plenty of additional options to eat and drink, plus more fun for the whole family.

13

AMM Tides and Tunes Concert Series

7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Free; donations greatly appreciated. Live music by Jarflys.

20

AMM Tides and Tunes Concert Series

7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Free; donations greatly appreciated. Live music by Jah Works.

22 Sassafras River Docking Contest and River Days

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the former IJK docks at the north end of Georgetown Yacht Haven. Centered around the docking contest, this event will include dozens of local vendors as well as food trucks, live music, drinks, and more. This event is a fundraiser for the annual Georgetown Labor Day Fireworks and local community.

29 Anne Arundel County River Days  11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. All events are free and open to the public. Each festival will feature fun activities for all ages, including boat rides, water activities, environmental educators, live music, games, crafts, food trucks, and more. Boat rides are free, but capacity is limited and tickets will be available first come, first served.

August Racing through Aug 28

EYC Beer Can Races  Hosted by Eastport YC, Annapolis, MD.

through Aug 1

Governor’s Cup Yacht Race  Hosted by St. Mary’s College of Maryland, St. Mary’s City, MD.

1 OPCYC Yankee Station Series 4  Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC, Hampton, VA.

2 AYC Two Bridge Fiasco  Hosted by Annapolis YC.

7 Solomons to Oxford Race  Hosted by Tred Avon YC, Oxford, MD.

8 Tom Brady Doublehanded Race  Hosted by Hampton YC, Hampton, VA.

8-9 Oxford Regatta  Hosted by Tred Avon YC, Oxford, MD.

8-9 TAYC and CBYC Log Canoe Regatta  Hosted by Tred Avon YC and Chesapeake Bay YC, Oxford, MD.

15 CRAB Cup  Hosted by Eastport YC, Annapolis, MD.

15-16 CYC Log Canoe Hicks Trophy Series  Hosted by Cambridge YC, Cambridge, MD.

15-16 Leo Wardrup Memorial Cape Charles Cup  Hosted by Broad Bay Sailing Association, Southern Chesapeake.

22 Annapolis to Cambridge (A2C) Lighthouse Challenge  Hosted by Eastport and Cambridge Yacht Clubs.

22 OPCYC Yankee Station Series 5  Hosted by Old Point Comfort YC.

22-23 TAYC Log Canoe Heritage Regatta  Hosted by Tred Avon YC, Oxford, MD.

23 CCVR Founders Race  Hosted by CCV Racing and Hampton YC.

29 J/105 Women’s Regatta  Hosted by Sailing Club of the Chesapeake.

29 NERYC Moonlight Run Distance Race  Hosted by the North East River YC, North East, MD.

29-30 Rappahannock Cup Regatta  Hosted by Rappahannock River YC, Irvington, VA.

For more details and links to event websites, visit spinsheet.com/calendar

Sailors Are Her Tribe Meet Emily Bartlett art

An adventurous newly outdoorsy adult, Emily S. Bartlett, age 50, has hiked Patagonia and jumped into sailing in a big way, so you might be surprised to learn that she grew up in rural Kentucky spending most of her time indoors.

In 2025, approaching her 50th birthday and winding down her work as a self-employed management business consultant, Emily relocated from Nashville, TN, to Glen Burnie, MD, and moved into her grandparents’ home, which she had visited regularly since childhood and purchased before the pandemic.

One day, while sitting on a beach looking out at the Bay, she saw a sailboat underway. “Something clicked,” she says, “and almost instantly, it became so clear to me that I should learn to sail.” Here she shares more in her own words.

#

Off to a good start

“I signed up for American Sailing’s Basic Keelboat courses, ASA 101 and 102 at Annapolis Sailing School and found that the wind, sun, and water are an incredible way to be immersed in nature, so I went on to complete ASA 103. I was thoroughly enjoying myself and wanted to try sailing internationally, so I enrolled at Aegean Sailing School in Greece, where I completed the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) five-day Competent Crew course.”

From the classroom to real-world sailing

“With these courses under my belt, I signed up to be crew on a boat delivery from Annapolis to St. Augustine, FL. We started the journey with a 24-hour sail to Norfolk, VA, and I learned that I love night watches and going through large shipping channels. I learned a lot from the captain,

but there were also some safety challenges. Our headsail blew out on the second night underway, and we were forced to dock in Wilmington, NC. I feel like that trip was worth 10 ASA/ RYA classes. And next time I will be better equipped to ask better questions upfront.”

Embracing the struggle

“With my new list of questions, I did a lot of research and found Rubicon 3, a sailing expedition company based in the UK with an emphasis on safety. I signed up for 10 days with 11 people aboard a 60-foot yacht in the Caribbean. We sailed from Antigua to Guadeloupe, Martinique, Dominica, and to St. Lucia. That trip is designed for travelers not tourists, with anchorages in more obscure locations. With my background in business administration, I especially appreciated the program’s clarity around crew dynamics. “Both our captain and first mate were fantas-

tic. We received incredible hands-on learning. No one jumped in to try and ‘save the day.’ Failure is a part of learning, and we were permitted to try and fail in a controlled environment. It turns out that one does not, in fact, want to miss out on the struggle.”

Race training

In February I joined North U’s performance race week in St. Thomas, USVI, for five days of instruction on boat handling, boat speed, and racing strategy, tactics, rules, and starts. I was placed in a beginner boat with four people and a coach. Annapolis sailors Kristen Berry and Margaret Podlich, two of my coaches, were excellent and helped take my sailing to the next level.

boats, it was especially helpful to pick up sailors’ slang and colloquialisms, terms that I wouldn’t have learned reading a how-to-sail book. Understanding all the terminology will make me a better crewmember and teammate on any boat.

A summer focused on sailing

racing on Toby Gandy’s Beneteau 10R Javelin on Wednesday nights, putting that North U Performance Race Week camp to good use!

What advice would you give someone considering learning to sail?

Do it! Today is the youngest you’re ever going to be.

One word of caution is that if you perceive sailing to be luxurious, you should know it is actually more like camping on the sea. Be prepared to move between comfort and discomfort.

“As a consultant I have experienced many workshops aimed at creating high-performance teams, so I especially enjoyed the North U focus on team dynamics. For example, professionally, I know that high functioning teams use language that does not deviate. So, for me, having not grown up around

• The Sailing Academy thesailingacademy.com

This summer I am working as the assistant director at Annapolis Sailing School’s KidShip program. I love the idea of helping kids learn to sail and feel comfortable around the water. Although I learned to swim as a kid, I didn’t learn the proper strokes until I took swimming lessons as an adult. Looking ahead, I hope to earn my sailing instructor certification and teach sailing both in the US and internationally. I love working at Annapolis Sailing School and just passed the US Sailing Level 1 Small Boat Instructor course in June. As a prerequisite for that course, I took a safe powerboating class at SUNY Maritime College in Brooklyn, NY. I had fun and want to teach that class someday! Also, I’m

While you are learning to sail, imagine what kind of sailor you might like to become: a cruiser, liveaboard, racer, ocean-crosser, instructor, singlehand? There are many types of sailing, and it is fun to try them all!

• MARCH 2026 ADD

I have discovered that I’ve actually been a sailor my whole life; I’ve just not been on the water. Sailors are my tribe, and I am thrilled to be on this path!

Find a Sailing School

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.

Chesapeake Bay Sailing Schools

• Annapolis Naval Sailing Association ansa.org

• Annapolis Sailing School annapolissailing.com

• Blue Water Sailing School bwss.com

• Captain In You Sailing Schools, Inc. captaininyou.com

• Chronic Sailing chronicsailing.com

• DC Sail dcsail.org

• Gratitude Sailing Institute gratitudesailing.com

• SailTime sailtime.com/annapolis

• Sail Solomons sailsi.com

• The Sailing Academy thesailingacademy.com

• West River Sailing Club learn2sailwrsc.com

Data Centers and Energy Impacts

Electrical energy may seem like an unlimited resource in the U.S., where grid operators are federally mandated to ensure the lights stay on. But the appetite of artificial intelligence has begun to strain the power system in a way that is also threatening environmental goals.

In some parts of the Chesapeake Bay region, fossil fuel-powered plants that were scheduled for decommissioning have been kept online to supply the grid’s growing needs. And some people say that solar and wind energy are unreliable in a data-driven world that demands continual access to power.

Many people have yet to grasp the massive energy consumption associated with daily use of AI, even as it continues

By Whitney Pipkin of the Chesapeake Bay Journal

to be integrated into a growing number of daily routine tasks. The focus of technology companies and the federal government on winning a global “AI arms race” is showing no signs of slowing.

These changes are occurring even more rapidly in data center hotspots like Northern Virginia and the broader Chesapeake Bay region that supplies energy to data centers.

Data centers are the warehouse-like buildings clustered near power lines and fiberoptic cables that have for decades housed the infrastructure enabling the internet. But the newer data centers being built to train and run AI use far more processing power than their predecessors, resulting in exponentially greater energy demands.

A report in late 2024 found that, in Virginia, supplying the energy to meet even half of the industry’s projected future demands would require purchasing power from outside the state. But that may be more difficult as other states also work to attract and supply power to data centers.

A U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) report found that the amount of energy consumed by data centers tripled in the decade leading up to 2024. This increase in the country’s total energy use followed about 15 years of relatively flat electricity demand, from the mid-2000s to the early 2020s.

The DOE report also predicted that data center energy consumption would double or triple again by 2028 to consume as much as 12 percent of the country’s electricity. Some industry officials say it could be even more.

Inflated projections

Predicting how much energy data centers and the AI industry will consume is inherently risky.

A 2025 report prepared by London Economics International LLC (LEI) for the Southern Environmental Law Center found that many regional projections tend to overstate future demand. That’s in part because data center developers have an incentive to say they will build a given project in more than one jurisdiction to get in a queue for future power supplies. This results in some loads being counted more than once in projections of demand at the regional and national level.

Discover it all at Herringtonharbour.com

To determine how many projected data centers may actually come to fruition in the near term, LEI’s analysis considered the global availability of the semiconductor chips that AI data centers require. For all the data centers projected in the U.S. from 2025 to 2030 to go forward, the report found it would require 90 percent of the global chip supply for that period be directed to the U.S. market.

LEI energy economist Marie Fagan said that “just isn’t realistic” because the U.S. represents only half of the global demand for chips.

Under pressure

Still, federal and regional energy suppliers are using some of the highest projected energy demands to plan for extensive infrastructure investments—and some view the data center boom as a reason to keep fossil fuel plants running longer.

The Trump administration issued several emergency orders under the Federal Power Act to prevent aging infrastructure from retiring. In the case of the Eddystone Generating Station near Philadelphia, PA, the order directed the plant’s natural gas and oil-fueled generators to continue running a day before its planned retirement at the end of May, which had been scheduled for nearly two years. Both the regional grid operator PJM and the plant’s owner Constellation had agreed that it was “uneconomic” to continue running the aging units.

The California-based nonprofit GridLab also released an analysis of the report driving the DEO’s energy emergency. It found that the department both overstated future demand and understated the amount of new capacity that would be added to the grid in the coming years to justify delaying the retirement of old plants.

In Virginia, which is home to about half of all data centers in the U.S., the data center industry already accounts for more than a quarter of the state’s electricity use, according to a report by EPRI, a California-based research institute. And its demands for electricity had been doubling every year, and then every six

months. By the end of 2024, data centers in the state consumed about 40 gigawatts of power, according to Dominion Energy. That’s enough to power about 10 million homes in a state with 8.8 million residents.

This steady growth in energy demand has led to a flurry of new power generation projects in the state, including transmission lines to fuel them. Many cut through tree-lined backyards and are located near national battlefield parks.

Regional growth

Maryland and Pennsylvania have also begun seeing growth of data centers and of the types of energy-generating projects that could fuel their future.

Amazon announced in June 2025 its plans to spend $20 billion on two data center complexes in Pennsylvania, including one that would siphon power directly from an existing nuclear power plant. In July 2025, President Trump appeared at

the Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit to announce that AI companies would be investing $92 billion in energy and related infrastructure in the state, including new natural gas-power stations.

The White House has also released an “AI action plan” aimed at accelerating the industry’s growth nationwide. Maryland has sought to get in on the data center game too, with mixed results.

The Maryland’s Office of the People’s Counsel, an independent state agency that represents residential customers, filed comments with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in July declaring that, regardless of how many data centers are in the state, its residents are already footing the bill for the industry’s regional growth.

“In future months and years,” Maryland People’s Counsel David S. Lapp said, “customers will see their utility bills rise significantly if regulators don’t fix current policies.”

This article first appeared in the Chesapeake Bay Journal. Learn more at bayjournal.com Find the third of this three-part series about data centers and water in the August SpinSheet.

Stories of the Century

Hot Summer Fun with the Century Club

Aspiring and veteran SpinSheet Century Club members are super active now that we’re past the halfway point in the year and the Summer Sailstice. Although racing sailors were thrilled with several windy spring weekends, paddlers and anglers were less than enthusiastic; they welcome the calmer, warmer, and even the steamiest summer days for fun on the water.

If logging 100 on-water days within the calendar year excites you, it’s not too late to join the fun in the Century Club challenge. We welcome all types of boaters into our inclusive, free club: sailors, powerboaters, anglers, and paddlers. Click to spinsheet.com/100-days to sign up and log your onwater days. Below find a sampling of what Centurions are up to lately:

Making YOUR BOaT New Again!

Six Serendipities in Solomons

By Captain Cheryl Duvall

For many sailors, Solomons Island is a welcome respite on the western shore, providing good protection, a variety of marine services, and several amenities. While the Eastern Shore of Maryland offers many coves for tucking in, the opposite side of the Bay doesn’t offer much refuge between the Patuxent and West Rivers. Hence, Solomons is a popular stop when heading up or down the Bay.

That’s precisely what we had planned: just one overnight stay in Solomons on our way south to St. Mary’s City to begin a two-week sailing vacation along the Potomac. But a hurricane and a nor’easter changed our plans, and we ended up

staying eight nights on a mooring ball at Safe Harbor Zahnisers. Definitely not the sailcation we had anticipated!

Initially, we were disappointed but resolved to stay hopeful despite ongoing forecasts of 25- to 28-knot winds, gusting 40 to 43. After several days of listening to incessant wind and rain, we relied on radar to anticipate rare breaks in the weather to get to shore. Although those breaks were only for a couple of hours here and there, we were able to walk or bicycle to several attractions within those time frames.

We were surprised to discover that Solomons, as familiar as it was, presented a few serendipities that made our stay truly enjoyable, despite the weather. If you are a frequent sailor to Solomons Island, see how many of these you’ve experienced. And if you haven’t been to Solomons lately, put this eclectic town on your destination list!

1 Calvert Marine Museum:

We have visited this museum every time we’ve been to Solomons, and it has always been the highlight of our trip. From its waters edge, Drum Point Lighthouse beckons us to dinghy from our mooring ball and tie up at the museum’s dock. We enjoy the intimacy of this

museum and its knowledgeable staff who take time to explain exhibits and encourage questions. The otters were especially entertaining on our recent visit, encouraging multiple returns over the many days we shared the wet weather with them.

2 Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center: How did we ever miss this treasure on previous journeys to Solomons?! Due to boredom during the early days of the deluge, we researched attractions beyond the familiar town and discovered that this sculpture garden was only a 12-minute bicycle ride away. Lucky for us, Zahnisers had loaner bikes, so we took advantage of a break in the weather to explore this delightful garden with its meandering paths and diverse art forms.

3

Easy walking to shops and dining: One of the joys of cruising the Chesapeake Bay is approaching seaside towns from the water and exploring them on foot. We have always anchored or moored in Back Creek, within view of the Calvert Marine Museum. Zahnisers has a dinghy dock, and from there it’s a 15-minute walk to the beginning of the town’s modest boardwalk along the Patuxent River. Another 15 minutes of walking will take you past a few boutique shops and restaurants,

Making YOUR BOaT New Again!

including Blue Shell Gifts and the popular Tiki Bar. We strolled to the end of the peninsula, stopping at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, which happened to be open and receiving guests.

4 A peaceful lunch: We stopped for lunch at the Pier Restaurant, with its amazing views of the Patuxent River and the Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge. We sat on the patio, ordered some seafood, and appreciated dramatic skies. On our stroll back, we peeked into the busy CD Café, a friend’s cozy favorite, and promised to return.

5 An exquisite dinner: A benefit of staying at Zahnisers is the proximity to La Vela, an exquisite Italian restaurant located on site. Early in our stay, when winds were forecasted to die down a few knots, we made reservations for dinner off the boat. Although we arrived a bit wet, it didn’t take us long to warm up and enjoy a leisurely dinner in a cozy atmosphere.

6 New friendships: Zahnisers has a welcoming boater’s lounge, where we sought refuge one drizzly afternoon. We were delighted to learn that a gathering was being planned for 4 p.m. We met seven sailors and one powerboater, mostly transients, and exchanged tales as boaters often do, especially when weather intervenes. We also learned about Sail Solomons, a sailing school and charter company, who are now based out of nearby Spring Cove Marina with new owners.

# Scrubbing decks before collecting fresh water through unique Gozzard scuppers (to refill water tanks).

Eventually, the weather window cleared, and one by one, boaters began to depart. After eight evenings on a mooring ball, we set off for Cambridge, ironically having to motor the entire way due to no wind. We returned to Annapolis on Day 13 of our vacation, never seeing the new-to-us towns we had so excitedly anticipated.

Yet, I remain infinitely grateful that we spent eight nights in Solomons when we had only planned for one. One of the transients we met in the boater’s lounge was solo sailor Julie Roberts, on her Leopard 44 catamaran At Ease. Fast forward a few weeks to when Julie and I bumped into each other at the Annapolis Sailboat Show. An offer of rides, laundry, and dinner at our Annapolis home led to Julie inviting me to join her twice, in the Bahamas and the Caribbean, with another sailor, Cordelia. The three of us share a love of the water, sailing, and adventure. And I never would have met these wonderful women if not for a long wet stay in Solomons Island.

About the author: Captain Cheryl Duvall is president of the Chesapeake Area Professional Captains Association (CAPCA). You may see her at the helm of her Gozzard 44 Belle Bateau, or on Watermark’s Miss Anne in Annapolis Harbor. Email her at cherylduvall@mac.com

FROM DREAM TO REALITY: Bluewater Experiences of a Singlehanded Cruiser, Part 1

By Captain Cheryl Duvall

When I met solo sailor Julie Roberts in a boater’s lounge in 2022 (see page 38), little did I know I would soon join her on two epic sailing adventures aboard her catamaran. Across the years, I have watched Julie’s evolution as a singlehanded cruiser who generously invites family and friends to join her. Her guests run the gamut of sailing capabilities, and she has gained a lifetime of lessons. I recently connected with Julie to ask about her experiences “living the dream.” Here are Julie’s responses in her own words:

What was your inspiration for cruising?

In my 20s, I dreamed about setting sail, being self-reliant, and venturing into the unknown to explore the world. But life got busy with other priorities—a career, family, and caregiving—so I had to wait. When I retired at 58, the timing was perfect. I was young and fit and could make my dream come alive. I told myself, “Just do it! The time is now!” It was a big leap, but I trusted my judgement.

I did not grow up sailing, but I’m very comfortable on the water. I was one of the early women who graduated from the US Naval Academy (1984), so I understood seamanship, navigation, safety, and working through challenging environ-

ments. I knew I did not want to race or do day sails. I wanted to venture offshore. What were your original boat criteria?

At first, I debated monohull vs. catamaran. I had chartered catamarans twice and had a blast. I did ASA qualifications on a catamaran and loved it. I sailed in Hawaii on a friend’s 47-foot monohull for a week and did not love it. I decided a catamaran was right for living aboard and exploring. I wanted an “adventure machine” to share with others.

In the fall of 2021, during the height of the pandemic, I toured numerous brands and price points in San Diego. After seeing or sailing 39- to 45-foot catamarans, I decided on the Leopard 44. I loved the forward cockpit and felt I could manage this size on my own. I also wanted a brand of boat that could be fixed anywhere in the world.

Where did you find your boat?

While attending the Annapolis Sailboat Show in October 2021, I met a broker from Florida where most US catamarans are located. After pounding the pavement in November, I found my boat! It was a 2013 “owner’s version” Leopard 44, going on the market soon. Given Covid, it was a crazy time, so finding it pre-market was key.

We negotiated, surveyed in December, closed in January, and I was a boat owner! I was in a bit of shock, thinking it would take longer. The biggest challenge was finding insurance, since this was my first boat. Most companies turned me down, saying, “Normal people buy a 25-foot boat, then a 35-foot, and finally a 45-foot catamaran!” My broker was helpful, and I got coverage the day before closing.

How did you become comfortable with singlehanding?

During the early months of 2022, I focused on learning my boat, which I named At Ease. The survey and insurance company dictated areas of focus, including training hours with a licensed captain. The boat was fully furnished with spare parts, tools, a full galley, maintenance records, and more. That meant I could focus on systems, sailing, and really learning my boat.

My broker, her husband, and another captain couple helped me practice and

prepare for singlehanding. Other catamaran sailors and the prior owners were also very helpful. The spring flew by with lots of checklists, vendors, practicing, and provisioning. It was a massive learning curve!

When did you begin cruising?

May 2022 was go-time! I planned to spend the summer in the northeast, fall in the Chesapeake, and winter in the Bahamas. I was not ready to singlehand my first big voyage, so I hired two of my trainers as crew to the Dry Tortugas and Key West. We had a beautiful overnight sail, anchored in gorgeous Dry Tortugas, snorkeled, and grilled dinner while seaplanes took off next to us. It was an incredible high! I recall thinking, “This is why I bought the boat.”

The next day turned into successive struggles as we met an early tropical storm approaching Key West. I got seasick. A hatch blew open causing a waterfall below. We had a winch override, ripped jib, and an injury at the helm; lost

both engines; and had to get towed into Key West Bight at 3 a.m. Thank goodness I had experienced crew with me (and had just bought tow insurance). Amazingly, I was not deterred. After a few days in Key West, the jib was repaired, the minor engine issues resolved, and I was on my way, this time with my youngest brother (an F-15 pilot and sailor), his sailing wife, and teenage daughter.

You don’t always singlehand, so when and why include crew?

For most of my first year, I planned to have crew with me. Many friends and family were excited to join. I was so appreciative, but it took tons of planning, coordinating, and logistics. My first true singlehanding was in August for 10 days between Martha’s Vineyard and Sag Harbor. I sailed to Block Island and Montauk in between, tried out various sail combinations, anchored on my own, tested all systems, and made new friends. It was a great learning experience in moderate weather, and I loved it!

Since then, I’ve done a lot of solo sailing. Long days between islands are great, often with a buddy boat going the same direction. Even a few consecutive days are manageable, anchoring each night in a new spot. I’ve done 24-hour solos, but I have crew for longer passages.

It’s been four-plus years… Still “living the dream?”

Yes, I’m living the dream! However, I do have to remind myself of that when I’m hauled out in a hot, dirty boatyard or dragging in a storm at 2 a.m. But it is truly incredible. Sharing the adventure with friends and family has been meaningful too. As we say out here, the highs are very high, and the lows are very humbling. I feel tested physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Honestly, it’s great for retirement and keeps me on my toes.

Plus, the cruising community is incredible! It’s one of the last true old-fashioned neighborhoods. Sailors look out for each other and willingly offer to help. I’ve made many good friends, with a lot of serendipity in whom I’ve met and how to pay it forward.

TAfter sailing the East Coast (2022), Bahamas (2023), almost every island in the Eastern Caribbean (2023-2024), west to the ABC Islands and Colombia (2025), At Ease is now on the hard in Panama (Spring 2026). A few months ago, I transited the Panama Canal on

a 37-foot monohull with three French grad students, so I’ll be ready for taking my boat through the canal at some point. More recently, I helped a family cross the Pacific aboard their Leopard 46, sailing to the Galapagos and French Polynesia. These experiences will help me decide where At Ease will venture next.

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Discovering History on Charter to the Nanticoke

Exploring a portion of the Capt. John Smith Trail

What happens when you blend sailing, history, ecology, friendship, and a birthday trip on the Chesapeake?

For Pat Regan and Vicki Hutchins, neighbors in Annapolis, the result was a meaningful, fun, and educational five-day charter trip aboard a catamaran. In May, the duo, in their late 70s and early 80s, enjoyed a captained charter to explore the Nanticoke River on the beautiful new 39-foot Seawind, Lily Rose.

How did they choose this trip?

Although Pat has sailing in her DNA (having grown up on small boats in the Severn River), the trip was the brainchild of Vicki, a non-sailor but a serious history buff, who wanted to mark her birthday by following a portion of the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. Pat was game, although for her the trip’s real appeal would be exploring the remote natural areas of the Eastern Shore.

The route and provisioning

The catamaran departed from the South River in Edgewater, MD, traveling south and east across the Bay. Near the mouth of the Nanticoke River, they dropped anchor in Fishing Bay for the first night. The following day they navigated the wellmarked but winding channel up the river, making their way to Vienna, MD, where they stayed at the municipal dock for two nights.

Although they had originally planned to head back down the river and farther south to Smith Island, Pat and Vicki decided that five days aboard was going to be plenty (foul weather played a part in the decision), and the following morning the pair and their captain pointed Lily Rose’s bow toward home.

For Pat and Vicki, the planning and provisioning was part of the fun, and the trio (captain included) ate all of their meals aboard, with Pat cooking dinner each night and feeding the captain a breakfast sandwich each morning. On day two they were

surprised and dismayed to find that the boat’s freshwater tanks had stopped working (due to calcium deposits that clogged the hoses, it turned out), but fortunately, they were well provisioned from the start with enough bottled water for cooking and drinking.

Memorable experiences

Pat says, “For me, the first night, in Fishing Bay, was magical. There were no people, no sounds, and not one other boat. Our captain brought out his clarinet and played on deck as the sun set. I had brought my sextant, which I took out to experiment with (I have an ambition to

learn to use a sextant, and my children had given me one as a gift). As I looked up, I saw a half globe of stars that was absolutely incredible. The beauty was so amazing that I was almost in tears.

“Vicki was most excited to learn about the area’s rich history, including details about Capt. John Smith’s 1608 expoloratory voyage, which included the Nanticoke, where Smith met with the indigenous people of the Nanticoke Indian Confederacy who dwelled along the river’s shores. Vicki had brought along her John Smith Trail map, and she studied it along with the nautical charts.”

Pat and Vicki, both lifelong learners,

# Vicki (R), was most interested in the area’s history and studied the John Smith Trail maps and navigational charts.

were delighted to discover and use the interpretive NOAA smart buoys, which help modern trail explorers learn more about the environment of the Bay while discovering what Capt. Smith might have seen as he passed near a buoy location 400 years ago.

To have a little fun and get into the spirit, their captain flew the flag of England from the time of Capt. Smith, and one day dressed as Capt. Smith while Pat dressed as Pocahontas.

Exploring Vienna, MD

Pat recalls, “When we came into Vienna under sail and the captain made a sharp Uturn to dock the boat, it seemed as if half the town came out to greet us. Of course, they knew we were coming because they spotted us as our sail showed above the marshes.

“The following morning, Margaret Wright Ingersoll (author of “Handsell: Three Cultures, One Story”) showed Vicki and our captain around the area, including Handsell, a National Park Service site that

preserves the intertwined Native American, African American, and European histories of a Native American settlement, Chicone village. I stayed back and took a couple of walks by myself through town. Vienna is a cool little spot with lots of colonial-era homes and an interesting maritime and economic history.

“At one point while they were gone, and I was still at the boat, the wind came up suddenly. Our captain hurried back. Meanwhile, Vicki’s guide called some local men who came to our rescue with extra fenders. They came back again in the evening to make sure the boat was still secure. The local people were very welcoming, and we even met a man who had built an authentic Irish pub behind his house. He invited us over for a Guinness, and we took him up on it. It was all very charming.”

Accompanied by Pat Johnson, Vicki and Pat also toured the Nanticoke River Discovery Center, a National Park Service site in Vienna. Vicki says, “It’s a very small museum, but the highlight for me was the

video of the 2008 re-enactment of Smith’s sail from Jamestown up the Bay and back, to mark its 400th anniversary.”

Any wildlife sightings?

“We saw two groups of dolphins playing around our boat and one big orange cownose ray. We saw eagles and pelicans, and it seemed that on every single piling there were osprey,” says Pat.

More explorations are on the horizon

Pat says, “Everyone at Vicki’s exercise classes is clamoring to know about the trip. Many people our age, like us, exercise diligently so that we are physically able to enjoy this type of adventure. The whole experience left me wanting more, so my husband, Dave, and I plan to visit Vienna by land this summer. Sometime in the future we want to drive to the southern tip of Virginia’s Eastern Shore, sleep on land, and take day charters to explore the area even more from the water.”

PLAN BETTER CRUISES TOGETHER

Coordinate routes, navigate together, and stay connected on the water with Argo.

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Welcome to SpinSheet’s Club Notes section, where you may showcase your Chesapeake Bay sailing club, its members, and your fabulous club events. If you’d like to share what makes your club special, brag about a recent club cruise, highlight a standout member, or announce a low-cost educational opportunity, send 350 words and a clear photo of smiling sailors or pretty boats to beth@spinsheet.com by the 10th of each month. Thank you to Argo for sponsoring this section. Find them at argonav.io and see how Argo can help enhance your club members’ time on the water.

Lotus and Wine; You’ll Be Fine

By Susan Theuns

As we move into our summer sailing, Compass Boating Club of the Chesapeake (CBCC) welcomes new members, Peter and Ellen Monk.

With our club’s Spring Fling and Sail250 events behind us, our members are ready for our July event in the Northern Bay. Sean Hollis has planned this event to combine the beautiful lotus blooms that carpet Turner Creek up the Sassafras River with a stop at a local winery to enjoy the summer breeze with a glass of wine in hand. Those familiar with this north Bay venue know that the water is fresher, with few to no jellyfish, so it is perfect for a summer dip.

For August, Rich Tull will lead his traditional “Follow the Wind” in search of full sails and crabcakes. Our starting point will be announced soon so stay tuned for details via email and our Facebook page.

If you would like to be part of a boating club that is tailored to your sailing interests, please send a brief description of your experience, contact information and expectations to compassboatingclub@yahoo.com. We look forward to hearing from you.

Mardi Gras in May

By Julie Day

Mardi Gras was the theme for this year’s Pentagon Sailing Club (PSC) Memorial Day Raftup. Although rain and heavy winds discouraged some members from sailing, 15 hardy souls showed up at Sail Solomons to start the weekend. Three boats were chartered, and three were owned by PSC members. The plan was to raft in San Domingo Bay on Saturday night and sail to Oxford, MD, for a barbecue on Sunday.

However, “the best laid schemes of mice and men gang aft agley” in the words of Robert Burns! In this case, one of the monohulls lost power shortly after leaving the dock. With the heavy wind and current, there was no possibility of returning to the original slip. Eventually the skipper managed to dock the boat, but it was opposite from the original heading. Instead of proceeding farther, the sailors decided to remain at Solomons Island for the day and enjoy the Calvert Marine Museum. In the evening the group met in the Captain’s Lounge at the marina and enjoyed a

Mardi Gras-themed dinner prepared by the sailors, each in costume. The theme even extended to food and drink, with Mufalata, a New Orleans dish and specialty drinks, such as Bourbon Street Blueberry Bash.

On Sunday, the group headed to the Safe Harbor Oxford marina, where the sailors were joined by members who had driven to the event. Unfortunately, the “wind was on our nose, so we couldn’t sail,” but all arrived in the early afternoon and enjoyed a barbecue feast at the marina. Darryl Dennis, the club’s

Rhode River Rendezvous

By Molly Evans and Michelle Bamberger

The Chesapeake Bay Sabre Association (SBSA) hopes that everyone is enjoying their sailing season. Our club held a “Dip into Summer” themed get-together from May 29-31. Originally eight boats had RSVP’d “yes,” but a few boats had to drop out due to last minute boat maintenance or weather issues. That didn’t stop commodore Chris (and Molly) Evans from having a good time along with the old salts who joined them. The weather was beautiful, and we enjoyed yummy dips as well as brats and hot dogs for dinner. Everyone brought their own beverages. We caught up with each other and swapped boat stories. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery and even had some eagles flying overhead.

The next event our group will host promises to be a wonderful time. The summer cruise will begin in St. Michaels on July 11 (overlapping with the Sabre/Back Cove organized meetup) and end in Galesville on Sunday, July 19. The cruise will include stops at Herrington Harbour South, Solomons Island, the St. Mary’s River, St.

commodore, welcomed the “krewes” and led a moment of remembrance for those who died in defense of our nation. Sue Neimeth, the event coordinator, presented souvenir pins to each skipper before awarding prizes for best food (a variety of jambalaya), best drink, best costume, and best decorations. Fleet captain, Ross Rosiak, presented the final award, a potato masher, to Mike Vergeer and explained how a properly deployed kitchen utensil can retrieve an errant halyard! For further information, visit pentagonsailing.org or facebook.com/pentagonsailingclub

Leonard Creek, Oxford, and the Wye East River.

We invite all current or previous Sabre or Back Cove members to join us. If interested in attending this event, please contact Michelle at mjb57@cornell.edu or (607) 342-7877. Membership dues are only $20 per year. For more information about CBSA visit cbsa-sabre.com

Plan Trips • Navigate Safely • Discover New Places

An America250 and Flag Day Celebration

By John Rock

The Town of St. Michaels, MD, celebrated our nation’s 250th anniversary during Flag Day weekend, June 13-14. Sponsored by the St. Michaels Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the two days were highlighted by a concert in the park by the Naval Academy Band Electric Brigade and a Flag Day picnic at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum with the U.S. Army Reserve 78th Army Band providing entertainment.

A patriotic boat parade capped off the weekend on Sunday afternoon. Fortyfour power, sail, working, and historic crafts of all sizes participated in clear but windy conditions along the Miles River. The parade started in the river and passed through the St. Michaels Harbor where hundreds of people cheered the boats on. The vessel next moved to Long Haul

Creek and the Miles River Yacht Club, where more revelers along the shore applauded as the parade continued. The highlights of the parade were the inclusion of P-520, a special warfare and rescue vessel from World War II, and a U.S. Naval Academy Yard Patrol Craft,

P-683. Local classic vessels Rosie Parks, Old Point, HM Krentz, and Stanley Norman also joined in celebrating the America 250 events. Skippers commented that they had a “great time,” and a “fun day,” and everyone agreed that the parade was “a blast.”

Could ’Ya Lend a Skipper a Hand?

In mid-May, Singles on Sailboats held our favorite early get-together and shore party (well, at least one of them), sailing to the Wye River and up Granary Creek to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) pavilion and camp, where we spent a weekend in the idyllic cove. We gathered for potlucks, walked the fields and trails, chatted and caught up, and met new members on their first sails.

Our boats ususally gather in small pods (groups of two to five), as the water isn’t deep enough there to field a continuous raft with everyone together, and we dinghy to a creek-side dock to walk ashore. This May, however, we had a larger pod than usual, because a few boats experienced some issues: an anchor wouldn’t hold, a windlass wouldn’t let go… What were SOSers to do? They called others, and the next thing you know, a dinghy arrived with additional support. Those with issues joined a pod of other boats, and their weekend went forth, knowing their boat was secure and safe.

As we were “building” this pod, each boat had at least one very new member on it—a first sail in many cases. What a great learning opportunity! The new sailors listened to the problem solving and the mathematics of anchor placement with anticipated weather, while moving from boat to boat helping with fenders, lines, tie downs, and placement of each additional boat …all with patient skippers coaching, explaining, supporting. Such in-the-moment experiences cannot be captured in any official boating course, but this kind of camaraderie is Singles on Sailboats in a nutshell. We are truly a social sailing community. Come join us and learn more at singlesonsailboats.org!

Scouts, a Sea-Mester Captain, and a Marine Insurance Pro

By Rebecca Burka and Marty Suydam

The Chesapeake Bristol Club (CBC) launched its 31st season in May with a luncheon on Mill Creek in Annapolis. Members shared life updates, compared splash dates, and discussed both the causes of and solutions to a variety of

boat-related woes. Guest speaker Scott Stusek of Brown & Brown Insurance delivered an informative presentation that provided an eye-opening overview of current underwriting guidelines, outlined the issues of greatest concern for owners of older, quality-built vessels, and offered valuable insights into the changing insurance environment and its implications for yacht owners.

Over Memorial Day weekend, CBC members joined the annual Inter-Club Wye Island Rendezvous, organized by five clubs: Eastport YC, Magothy River Sailing Club, Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club, CBC, and The Corinthians. Challenging weather conditions significantly impacted attendance, but two CBC groups arrived by boat: Warna and Randy Gillies aboard Godspeed and commodore Graham Overman (who is also the committee chair of Scouting America Troop 962 of Lovettsville, VA) aboard Ithaka. Overman brought a crew of nine—five Scouts, three Scout leaders, and ASA instructor Clint

Patrick, all of whom were first timers to the Wye. The Scouts gained valuable experience sailing in fog, using chart plot navigation, and standing lookout. An additional six CBC members arrived by car on Saturday, and eight others drove in on Sunday. It was truly a memorable weekend.

In June, CBC webmaster Ted Reinhold welcomed 18 CBC members, two sailors-in-training, and a surprise guest speaker—his grandson, Capt. Nick Reinhold—for a shore party and cookout at his home. Ted’s deck is shaded by an old sail creatively repurposed, making the area a perfect spot to relax and enjoy views of the Magothy River. Nick shared his personal journey and the experiences that led him to his current role as captain of Argo, a 112-foot sailing vessel, one of two world-class double-masted schooners in the Sea-Mester fleet and study-aboard program.

To become a CBC member, you don’t have to own a Bristol (or any boat). Learn more at cbclub.info

Plan Trips • Navigate Safely • Discover New Places

If Only All Cruises Could Be This Perfect

By Greg Shields

June and July are the heart of the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club (CBTSC) season. Most boats have been in the water for some time, and the late-comers have stepped up and are ready for some special events.

Our first big sailing event this season was a Southern Bay Cruise from May 26 to June 14. It takes a strong leader to handle an itinerary over that period of time. This year’s leader was our commodore, Michael Mininsohn, and his first mate, Pam. Michael and Pam must have some connections because they had northerlies on the way down and southerlies on the way back! But they weren’t done yet… they also had very little rain, cool temps, and low humidity. The cruise made it to Cape Charles and back, stopping along the way to visit several CBTSC members in Mill Creek near Solomons, Reedville, Carter Creek/

Irvington, and Cape Charles. If only all cruises could be so perfect.

With the bar set so high, other leaders had their work cut out for them! In June we joined the Summer Sailstice celebration, held on June 20 and 21, in the West and Rhode Rivers. Not only was it the longest day of the year, but it was also Father’s Day. By the time this issue hits the streets, the Summer Sailstice will be history as will the Sail250 and Fireworks events in St. Michaels.

At this time, our annual “Too Hot To Sail”

land event is scheduled for July, but no date has been determined. To get a head’s up on the events schedule, check out cbtsc.org, where event details and registration are just a click away. Until next month, we’ll be standing by on Channel 16.

Sometimes the Best Moments Aren’t Scheduled

By Alan Neustadtl

The season is in full swing at Selby Bay Yacht Club (SBYC) in Edgewater, MD, and our calendar is full of activities that define our boating community. Selby Bay is all about enjoying the Chesapeake Bay together, whether we are out on the water or relaxing at the slips.

Our cruising schedule is a major draw for members looking to explore the Bay in good company. We have a lineup of club cruises planned for popular destinations such as Baltimore for Fleet Week and SAIL250, St. Michaels for Oysterfest, and several other local harbors. No cruising season is complete without our traditional raftups, where members tie up together, swap stories, and enjoy a relaxed evening on the hook.

At the clubhouse, the social calendar is just as active. Our pool parties are a hit, offering a great place to cool off with refreshments and local food trucks. Weekends start with our popular bagel breakfasts, a casual catch-up before heading out for the day. In the evenings, members naturally head to the fire pit to unwind.

SSBYC has an easy camaraderie. Some of the best moments aren’t scheduled at all; they are just the spontaneous conversations that happen while walking the docks or helping a neighbor tie up.

We are happy to share our love for the water and are actively welcoming new members into the fold this season. If you are looking for a club that balances active cruising with a relaxed, friendly shore life, we invite you to learn more about the Selby Bay family. Learn more at selbybayyc@clubexpress.com

Join a Club and Sail With Interesting People!

teve Riker joined Back Creek Yacht Club (BCYC) in 2025 to expand his social circle (even though he lives in a waterprivileged community) and share sea stories over docktails. For his first cruising season with BCYC, Steve looks forward to raftups and checking out local boating locations. Steve says he was attracted to BCYC’s low overhead, which is made possible because the club does not maintain a physical structure, preferring instead to get members together at a variety of year-round, land- and water-based events.

Steve started sailing in 1991 when he returned from Desert Storm. After taking lessons at the San Diego Navy Sailing Center, he rented boats until finally committing to ownership of a Laguna 24 in 2006. No stranger to club life, Steve joined The Sailing Club of Washington (SCOW) and Daingerfield Island Sailing Club (DISC) where he was introduced to

By Anne Knab

racing on a dockmate’s Kirby 25 before moving on to join the team on Allegiant as they were standing up to race the J/42. Steve enjoyed racing, including the Annapolis to Newport Race, before deciding in 2025 to “leave the hardcore racing to the younger crew.” Now a cruiser, Steve currently owns a 1989 O’Day 322, Banshee, which he purchased in 2022. Steve says Banshee is “a terrific Bay boat” even though it has some issues, as any old boat does.

A retired U.S. Navy officer who followed up with a job doing similar work as a civilian, Steve is now fully retired but gives back to the community as a chief election judge in Anne Arundel County, MD. When he’s not sailing, he flies a light aircraft (Socata Trinidad) and volunteers as a pilot with animal rescue (Pilots and Paws) and environmental groups (South Wings).

The BCYC fleet is divided between sailors and powerboaters, all of whom love being on the water. With our diverse backgrounds, members can share

a wide variety of tips, tricks, and experiences. If you’re interested in meeting like-minded people or becoming one of our interesting members, check us out at backcreekyc.org. #WeConnect

Plan Trips • Navigate Safely • Discover New Places

Beautiful Anchorages and Educational Venues

By Carol Hanson and Jeff Capaldi

The annual Summer Cruise is always a highlight of the America’s Boating Club Wilmington (ABCW) season. Each year the cruise re-ignites camaraderie while offering safe explorations of our Chesapeake Bay treasures. And this year’s cruise in May was no exception. Our itinerary focused on beautiful anchoring locations and interesting Chesapeake Bay educational venues.

Despite clouds and high winds, fifteen spirited club members embarked on the cruise from Rock Hall to Solomons Island, MD. Stops included the Little Choptank River’s Hudson Creek, Patapsco River’s Cuckold Creek, Safe Harbor Zahnis-

ers Marina, Solomons Baby Owl Cove off Broad Creek, and Knapp’s Narrows Marina. The official start on Saturday was a Captain’s Meeting and appetizers at Rock Hall’s North Point Marina. It was a fun beginning before a “boisterous downwind run” to the Little Choptank River.

Our time in Solomons included explorations at the Calvert Maritime Museum, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, and Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center. Many thanks to the Cruise Committee for all their planning.

ABCW extends cruise invitations to other ABC Boating Clubs. As always, our goal is to provide opportunities for fun and camaraderie,

Hwhile enjoying our beautiful Bay and possibly even learning something new about our fellow boaters, the Chesapeake, and/or our boats. To learn more about ABCW, visit abc-wilmington.com or contact us at wspsboaters@gmail.com

From Luau Nights to Lobster Waters

By Mary Ann and Andy Campbell

unter Sailing Association Station 1 (HSA1) has been making the most of summer on the water, with members enjoying both local Chesapeake fun and a longer adventure north toward Block Island, RI.

The season kicked into tropical mode with the HSA1 Luau, which started with a great bang and plenty of island spirit. Stargazer hosted the party, complete with painkillers, coconut shrimp, and the kind of relaxed raftup hospitality that makes club events memorable.

The award for best dressed went to Roger and Mary aboard Red Sky, who fully understood the assignment. As often happens on the water, Mother Nature decided to add her own entertainment. After sunset, a short but lively storm rolled through with showers and winds topping out around 35 knots. The two rafts were wisely broken up, and the fleet handled the evening with good seamanship and good humor.

Meanwhile, four HSA1 boats have been making their way north from the Chesapeake toward Block Island. The

traveling fleet includes Dal Riata, crewed by Andy and Mary Ann Campbell; Blue Heron, crewed by Celeste and Mark Streger; Pinch Me, crewed by Tom and Diana Fox; and Adventure Bound, crewed by Earl Green and Jean Young.

Ten days into the journey, the crews have already traveled through Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey, with stops including Still Pond, Delaware City, Lewes, Cape May, Atlantic City, and Atlantic Highlands near Sandy Hook Bay. The trip has included calm motor days, some sailing, fog, anchoring challenges, weather

delays, dolphins along the New Jersey coast, shared meals, bike rides, boardwalk visits, boat projects, and plenty of cockpit conversations.

Day 10 brought the longest passage so far, nearly 14 hours from Atlantic City to Atlantic Highlands. As the sun set orange over Sandy Hook and the lights of New York City appeared to the north, the fleet closed another memorable day. From luau nights to lobster waters, HSA1 continues to prove that the best part of boating is the people who share the ride. Learn more about our club at hsa1.org.

The Youth Scene: From Optis to College Teams

As we turn the page to July, high school and collegiate sailing have given way to summer junior programs and regattas. Youth sailors, parents, and coaches will be especially busy this month. Many clubs not only have summer programs in full swing, but they will also host their annual junior regattas. These fun-filled events build community and inspire the next generation of sailors, but they are, indeed, labor intensive, taking small armies of dedicated adults to pull them off. So, here’s to the coaches, parents, and volunteers (both on and off the water) who make junior racing and summer sailing programs possible.

High School Scene: Severn School Captures Mallory Trophy

Three local high school sailing teams were among the 20 teams competing in the Interscholastic Sailing Association (ISSA) Fleet Race National Championship, AKA the Mallory, which unfolded May 30-31 ona Lake Pontchartrain, LA. At the conclusion of racing, Severn School (Severna Park, MD) topped the leaderboard, having performed consistently well throughout the regatta.

Day One was beautiful and sunny, and at the start of the day a light northwest breeze at six knots greeted the top teams in the nation. Throughout the morning and early afternoon, the breeze gradually swung to the right and faded to

three to six knots, with powerboat chop at times making the racing quite difficult. Eventually, a southerly filled in at about 5 p.m., and racing got back underway with a six- to 11-knot south-southwest breeze. Race 8B was completed, and boats were back ashore by before 8 p.m.

As teams made their way to the racecourse on Day Two, the promising westerly flow died, and teams were sent back in to wait for the breeze, which came back enough for racing to get underway. As the day went on, the breeze built and clocked right. By early afternoon, six to 10 knots of north-northeast breeze made for some tight racing. The race committee made good use of the conditions and

was successful in getting all the way to Race 16 in both divisions.

In the end, Severn School emerged victorious. St. George’s School captured second, and Mater Dei completed the podium taking third. Chesapeake-area teams Christchurch School (Christchurch, VA) placed eighth, and Key School (Annapolis, MD) placed 11th, with 20 schools competing.

For Severn School, fresh off capturing the Baker Trophy (see the June issue of SpinSheet), the back-to-back victories made for a jubilant sendoff for retiring longtime coach Tom Sitzman.

Find full Mallory results at scores.hssailing.org/s26.

Junior Week at Fishing Bay Yacht Club

Junior Week at Fishing Bay Yacht Club is the organization’s flagship camp, the heart of its junior sailing program, and a fantastic way to start summer. And it’s open to the public! Campers from ages six to 18 can choose from a selection of boats and experience levels. Junior Week, followed immediatley by the club’s Junior Annual Regatta and Commonwealth Cup (held June 20-21), is powered by a staff of top-tier national/international coaches, certified instructors, and dedicated volunteers. Evenings are full of fun—ice cream, pool parties, and family cookouts. Looks like fun! Learn more at fbyc.net/junior-sailing

OCollegiate Scene

n the college season, Annapolis-area native Thomas Sitzman posted an impressive performance sailing for Stanford University at the Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association (ISCA) Open Fleet Race National Championship Finals Regatta. Sitzman, sailing with Callie Hammond, captured the Low Point A Division. The regatta, held May 21-22 in St. Petersburg, FL, was hosted by the University of South Florida. Stanford’s team, which placed second, was bested by Brown University in a historic victory, given that Brown had not won an open fleet racing national title since 1948. Chesapeake-based teams included the US Naval Academy (fourth place), Georgetown University (eighth place), and St. Mary’s College of Maryland (12th place), out of 18 teams competing. Find full results at scores.collegesailing.org

July CBYRA Junior Sailing Events

• Severn Sailing Association Sandy MacVickar Junior Regatta, Annapolis, July 1

• Baltimore County Sailing Center Junior Annual Regatta, Baltimore, July 9

• Gibson Island Yacht Squadron Junior Annual Regatta, Gibson Island, July 10

• Cambridge Yacht Club Admiral Byrd Regatta, Cambridge, MD, July 18-19

• Fishing Bay Yacht Club One Design Regatta, Deltaville, VA, July 18-19

• Lewes Yacht Club Junior Annual Regatta, Lewes, DE, July 22

• Rock Hall Yacht Club Junior Annual Regatta, Rock Hall, MD, July 23

Turn to the August SpinSheet for more youth and collegiate sailing news. Do you know a standout youth coach worthy of a short Q&A in SpinSheet? Send your suggestions and other youth sailing news, such as regatta recaps and photos, to beth@spinsheet.com

Juniors Racing Snipes: Find more junior coverage incorporated into our Snipe Fleet news beginning on page 59.

Cold, Wet, and Reachy at the Miles

River Race

From warm and windless Wednesday nights to super windy weekends to a rainy Memorial Day, spring sailing in Chesapeake country has brought the proverbial mixed bag of conditions. For many racing sailors, the Down the Bay Race (May 22) and the Annapolis to Miles River Race (May 23) kick off a three-day summer holiday weekend… not so much this year. Less than desirable “summer weather” made for a few “DNS” teams among the 33 total entries in the Miles River Race, yet those unafraid to don their foulies and brave spring made the most of it.

Zuul skipper Ben Capuco says the race was “cold, wet and reachy… but in the end it wasn’t as wet as it could have been, and we had breeze! The Miles River YC turned the heaters on in the dockside Tiki bar, and the drinks were mighty tasty while we all warmed up. We even had a reasonably dry delivery back home to Annapolis.”

Find Down the Bay results on page 56. Find more photos of all of our spring events at spinsheet.com/photos

# Rod Jabin’s Ramrod topped the 13-boat ORC Open class. Photos

# Erik Wulff’s Endorphin placed second in class.

# See Jayne smile!

Top Three Results

J/105 (5 Boats)

1. Dragonfly, Jamie Gregory

ORC Open 1 (13 Boats)

1. Ramrod, Rodrick Jabin

2. Endorphin, Erik Wulff

3. Zuul, Benedict Capuco

ORC Open 2 (7 Boats)

1. Aunt Jean, James Sagerholm

2. Abientot, Roger Lant

3. Aremorica, Todd Johnson

CRCA Cruiser (5 Boats)

1. Cordelia, Nick Simpson

2. Merlin, Joshua Nealy

3. Basta, Steven Capuano

PHRF N (2 Boats)

1. Bare Bones, John Tis

2. Mirage, Jerry Lee

Racing Down the Bay

After a one-year hiatus, Hampton Yacht Club’s (HYC) Down the Bay Race for the Virginia Cruising Cup unfolded May 22. Twenty-four teams registered for this 120-mile-long distance race from Annapolis to Hampton, VA. Several teams retired or chose not to race over a less-than-ideal holiday weekend weatherwise.

Keith Midgette, Southern Bay sailor and skipper of Luna Blu, says, “Finally feel like I’ve recovered from the Down the Bay Race. A 120-mile reach from Annapolis to Hampton, it challenged helmsmen and crew in strong gusty winds, cold spray, and at times spitting rain. Luna Blu completed the race in 19 hours, 59 minutes with a cold, thoroughly soaked, and exhausted crew, and a new record for the old girl. Very proud of Aaron Kendall, Joey Greenfield, and Tommy Smith for enduring a long, tough race! When do we get to do it again?”

For this challenge, racing sailors such as Keith from as far south as Hampton or Fishing Bay come up to Annapolis to turn around and race back home, and others come down from Baltimore. Many stay for HYC’s signature Southern Bay Race Week the following week. Learn more at hamptonyc.com

Top Three Results

Multihull (3 entries)

1. Tim Lyons, Triple Threat

ORC Open (4 entries)

1. Jason Woodson, Huzzah

2. Marianna Fleischman/Ellie Menezes, Spite Sailing

PHRF A (6 entries)

1. Glenn Doncaster, Nanuq

2. Guy Sorensen, Vindr Dreki

3. Leroi Lissenden, Voodoo 2

PHRF B (11 entries)

1. Jon Opert, Orion

2. Julianne DeGraw Fettus, Bennu

3. Jordan Tacchetti, Split Decision

The Black Seal Cup at Southern Bay Race Week

The Black Seal Cup at Southern Bay Race Week was completely rebranded for 2026, and it was a great event! After almost 30 years of partnership with Hampton Yacht Club (HYC), Goslings Rum continues to be a wonderful supporter of sailing.

New for this year was a Thursday night reception in the Goslings Leisure Lounge with vendor displays, a Bermudainspired menu featuring conch fritters, Johnny bread with Goslings Rum, cinnamon butter, and a beautiful ice sculpture of the iconic Black Seal balancing a rum barrel on its nose. Competitors were welcomed to the party to the sounds of live steel drums and a cold Dark n’ Stormy.

Mother Nature provided three wonderful days of racing with conditions ranging from five knots on Friday to a full 25-plus knots Saturday afternoon. One Design, PHRF, and Cruising circles helped to dot the horizon of Hampton Roads with masts and sails as far as the eye could

see. Congratulations to Ian Hill’s Sitella team for winning the 2026 Black Seal Cup!

Youth Sailing Virginia board member and SpinSheet Racing team member, Alan Bomar was honored during the event with the Eddie Williams Sportsmanship Award for his outstanding efforts to grow participation in onedesign racing—specifically by preparing

Eddie Williams’ former J/24 and rallying a crew to race Willi during the event.

Thank you to HYC race committee volunteers, PROs Brian Deibler, John McCarthy, David McConaughy, and Sergio Diehl, and chief judge Jerry Thompson for all of their hard work. Find photos at spinsheet.com/photos

~ Reporting by Max Plarr

Southern Bay Race Week Top Three Results

J/24

1. Alan Bomar, Roundabout

2. Raymond Nugent Melges 24

1. Doug Bird, Joyride

2. David and Jacki Meiser, One Trick Pony

3. Rusty Burshell, This is Cool ORC Performance Cruiser

1. Jack Clayton, Melantho

2. Dan Berger, Jammin

3. Tim Dull, Skymark PHRF A1

1. Ian Hill, Sitella

2. Graham Garrenton, Meridian XI

3. Craig Wright, Afterthought PHRF A2

1. Willis Roberts, Remedy

2. Isaac Katz, Gallant

3. Ford Buckley, Tenacious PHRF BC

1. John Henry, Rumble

2. Ed Tracey/Tim Polk, Incommunicado

3. Doug Savage, Dark Star

PHRF Cruising NS

1. James Keen, Dauntless

2. Ron Ruszala, 41 North

3. Benjamin/Christina Ritger, Argo

SBRW Cruising

1. Doug Miller, Folly

2. Al Brazzi, Special K

3. Anna Yarashus, Strega’s Allure Viper 640

1. Vir Menon, Rolling Thunder

2. Mark Wheeler, Vapor Trails

3. Pierce Brindley, Lady Monarch

Upsets at the 60th Annual Snipe Colonial Cup

Adeep, multigenerational fleet of 49 Snipes contested the 60th Colonial Cup June 6 to 7 in Annapolis, with seven quality races run with Vakaros Race Sense. Arthur Blodgett/Sara Shumann won the event, sailing for the Severn Sailing Association (SSA), snapping the threeyear winning streak of Ernesto Rodriguez. Annapolis sailors Bradley Adam/Thomas Walker of SSA were only one point

behind in second with Enrique Quintero/ Lorena Fondora of Coral Reef Yacht Club in third. Owen Fretwell/Colin Krebs (San Diego) were the top Juniors, and Katie Bornarth/Darby Capellin (Norfolk/ SSA) the top Women. The fleet featured Olympians, World Champions, and AllAmericans as the Snipe continues to attract elite young sailing talent. The 60-year-old annual regatta served this year as a test

event for the US Nationals the following week, also hosted by SSA.

Saturday’s sea breeze was slow to build but climbed to 11 knots in the early afternoon as a haze lifted over the Chesapeake. Crews were happy to be full-hiked at times to power through the classic Chesapeake Bay chop. The ebbing tide made for a long starboard tack and helped push many sailors over the line, but PRO Steve Podlich and his team set exceptionally square courses and got off four races of about 45 minutes each, the Vakaros negating the need for general recalls.

Sunday was breezy from the northwest and quite shifty. Annapolis challenged all sailors with chop, puffy oscillations, and current. The 49 Snipes were a tight fleet, and there were some wild races!

Blodgett is the first SSA member to win the Colonial Cup since 2019, snapping a three-year win streak by Rodriguez. Teams traveled from San Diego and Miami, and the local fleet has grown as well with four Junior boats from Annapolis Yacht Club sponsored by Andy Skibo and the Annapolis Junior Sailing Fund. AYC sailors Mason Cook/Catherine Kammeier were second Juniors in 12th overall, and AYC Snipers Grace Crespin/Emily Julian were the second overall Girls!

Epic Snipe Nationals in Annapolis!

Justin Callahan and Trevor Davis bested 52 Snipes from across the country for the US Snipe National Championship at Severn Sailing Association (SSA) in Annapolis, MD June 11-14. The fleet consisted of Collegiate All-Americans, College Sailors of the Year, Rolex Yachtsmen, previous National and World Champions, and Olympians. After four days of challenging conditions, close competition, and classic Snipe camaraderie,

the dynamic duo clinched the title with a race to spare, winning their second Snipe National Championship.

Breeze came from all four cardinal directions over the four days as PRO Steve Podlich and his team ran nine quality races, allowing different sailors’ skills to come to the fore in each condition. Day one and two had races abandoned and one completed in a light southeasterly sea breeze. Much of the race was led by Andrew and

Join us for the 20th Annual CRAB Cup on August 15th, 2026 for an exciting day of racing followed by an award-winning shore party at Eastport Yacht Club. Sailors, power boaters, and party goers alike, there's something for everyone:

• Pursuit Race or Poker Run 12pm-3pm

• Shore Party 4pm-9pm live music by Unified Jazz Ensemble and Misspent Youth. Enjoy Mount Gay cocktails and Boatyard Bar & Grill cuisine. Food available until 7:00pm.

Not a boater?

Come for the party or take part in the Skipperʼs Challenge, a fun, peer-to-peer fundraiser supporting CRABʼs mission to provide life-changing sailing experiences for people with disabilities, recovering warriors, and children from underserved communities. Proceeds ensure that CRAB's programs remain free of charge for guests. For more information go to https://crabsailing.org/crabcup/

Made Possible By

Kristen Jabonoski, sailing their first regatta in a newly purchased Snipe, the legendary Lee Griffith’s Manage a trois, before Callahan, Ernesto Rodriguez, and Enrique Quintero passed them on the last lap. Day two was a wild day as a southeast thermal gave way to a west-southwesterly front, and the third race was finished in puffy conditions gusting to 18 knots. Annapolis Juniors Trey Waters and Charlotte Stites sailed an amazing race to finish second, just behind Rodriguez/Reifkol.

Day three was all about the current, with a light northerly and the Conowingo Dam opening a deluge into the Chesapeake Bay. Sailors found themselves “Sailing on the Treadmill,” with the P Flag Vakaros system allowing for experimentation with ‘dip starts.’ Carter Cameron/Madeline McGrath won the day decisively with a 2,3,2 scoreline, Carter using his experience sailing in Charleston to play the current effectively. Things tightened at the top as Justin and Trevor’s 5,5,9 scores put Ernesto/Andrea in striking distance, and Owen Fretwell/Colin Krebs, Arthur Blodgett/Grace Howie, and Augie Diaz/ Ciara Rodriguez-Horan sat within three points of each other for the final podium spot.

Off the racecourse, there was ’Serious Fun’ to be had. After collaborative daily debriefs by Carter Cameron of Quantum Sails and tasty regatta dinners there was music: John Fretwell jamming one night, and Enrique Quintero turning the SSA deck into a Miami nightclub the next. There were leis and flip cup games, and bar crawls that began at Davis’s Pub and ended in Narnia. Meghan Kelchner provided yoga instruction each morning.

Snipe culture was in full effect: no protests filed and fleet elders (Augie and Ernesto) helping newcomer Andrew Keane straighten his mast when it inverted. Loaner boats and trailers and open sharing of knowledge are how the Snipe fleeters keep growing and taking care of each other!

For the final day Annapolis showed up with glamour conditions: 12 to 15 knots from the south, turning the Snipes into surfboards downwind in the last race. Callahan and Davis attacked the day, winning both races to take the title. Callahan, who just won his second College Sailor of the Year Honors, continues to use the Snipe to

cross train as he sets his sights on helming the American 470 in 2028 Olympics. After a summer of campaigning at the 470 Worlds in Japan with Lara Dallman Weiss (who also skippered this regatta to cross train), Callan and Davis will reunite for the Snipe Worlds in Mallorca this September. Rodriguez/Reifkohl hung on to second place as the Junor Team of Owen Fretwell/ Colin Krebs showed their heavy air prowess with a 3,3 scoreline. Blodgett/Howie and Diad/Rodriguez-Horan followed for the top five overall. Blodgett was the top local boat a week after winning the 49-boat Colonial Cup, and fellow SSA members Bradly Adam/Thomas Walker shook off some tough breaks to climb up to sixth ahead of Enrique Quintero/Lorena Fundora in seventh.

The top Women were one of the surprises of the regatta as Annapolis Yacht Club (AYC) Junior Sailor Grace Crespin made a rapid ascent in the Snipe class (her first Snipe regatta was last November) with new Snipe crew Eleanora Lawrence. The duo is part of the AYC Snipe Program, pioneered and sponsored by Andy Skibo and the Annapolis Junior Sailing Fund, which has given local Juniors access to four new Snipes in the last year and a half, growing the sport and their skills in this technical class. The success of these very young Snipers was remarkable.

The Chesapeake Yacht Racing Association sponsored outstanding media coverage by Lexi Pline Photography. Find videos, drone footage, and photos on the USA Snipe Class Facebook and Instagram accounts. Thank you to SSA, regatta chair Devon Feusahrens, PRO Steve Podlich, many volunteers and sponsors who made this regatta possible, and competitors from all of the country who made this an epic nationals.

Cape Charles Cup

Saturday Aug. 15th & Sunday Aug. 16th, 2026

The Cruising Event For Serious Racers!

The Racing Event For Serious Cruisers!

Cruising, PHRF, and ORC Class victors get a beautiful Weems and Plath Lamp Trophy.

Saturday: Little Creek, VA to Cape Charles, VA

Post race CATERED dinner downtown near City Marina Sunday: Cape Charles, VA to Buckroe Beach, VA

Entry Fee - $135 if received by July 17th, otherwise $195. Includes registration, hat, tee shirt, two Saturday dinner tickets, and a skipper’s bag.

For more information, visit: www.CCCup.net

Annapolis Bermuda Ocean Race 2026

The biennial Mustang Survival Annapolis Bermuda Ocean Race (A2B) unfolded June 5 to 13. Twenty-four teams competed in this year’s 753-mile distance race from Annapolis to Hamilton, Bermuda, hosted by Eastport Yacht Club. EYC member and Annapolis skipper, Bruce Irvin, and his team aboard the Corby 40 Time Machine led the pack early on and held their impressive lead to earn line honors off Bermuda.

At print time, teams were traveling or just arriving home, so we will save the detailed post-race analysis for our August issue. Find more start photos at spinsheet.com/photos.

Top Three Results

ORC Open (ORC - 12 Boats)

1. Tenacious, Ken Luczynski

2. Time Machine, Bruce Irvin

3. Aurora, Brett Mastropieri

ORC Performance Cruiser (6 Boats)

1. Second Storm, Adam Davis

2. Bellatrix, Hattie Warwick-Smith

3. FuhGedAboutIt, Stephen Weinstock

Patriot Sub-Class (4 Boats)

1. Allegiant, Bert and Maryline Bossar

2. Peekaboo, DJ Parry

3. Widow Maker, Russ Matijevich

A Beautiful Day To Race for a Cure

Sixty-four teams competed in the annual Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta on June 13 off Annapolis. The regatta was hosted by the Eastport Yacht Club with assistance from the Annapolis Yacht Club, Herrington Harbour Sailing Association, Maryland Yacht Club, and Rock Creek Racing Association.

Pursuit race winner and skipper of the Viper 640 Plymouth Satellite, Mary Ewenson, sailed with Greg Hryniewicz and his 12-year-old son, Bryce, who shared steering duties.

She says sailing conditions were “beautiful! Sunny, clear, warm but not hot. At the start it was blowing about 10 knots. It laid down a little bit over the course of the race, and the current was more of a factor than the breeze for tactics. It was ebbing like crazy; so many boats who thought they were fetching the second mark ended up having to tack multiple times. I think there may even have been some who never made the mark. Based on the wind direction, the leg to the finish should have been broad reach, but it ended up being a pretty tight reach because of the current.”

The Maryland Cures Cancer Regatta, which raises funds for Blood Cancer United, is the first of three 2026 events in the Triple Crown of Charity Sailing. The next two will be the CRAB Cup (August 15) and the Hospice Cup (September 19). To be in contention for the Triple Crown, sailors must compete in and fundraise for all three.

Find full results at yachtscoring.com and more photos at spinsheet.com/photos

Top Three Finishers

J/105 (11 Boats)

1. Warbride, Ben duPont

2. Crescendo, Angelo Guarino

3. Kobayashi Maru, Mark Sweeney

ORC Open (3 Boats)

1. Senatore, John Pica/ Scott Barnhill

2. Blue, Andrew Guhl

3. Aremorica, Todd Johnson

PHRF B/C (4 Boats)

1. Committed, Warren and Tracey Richter

2. Celerity, Jason Aulds

3. Lark, Richard Turman

CRCA Spinnaker (4 Boats)

1. Snow Day, Richard Snow

2. Hot Pepper, Steven Toole

3. Jahazi, David Dodson

Cal 25 (4 Boats)

1. White Cap, Dan Buan

2. Chicken Little, H. Marie Harkenrider

3. Harlequin, Leo Surla

Heintz Non-Spinnaker (2 Boats)

1. Anneliese, Vicki Saporta

J/30 (3 Boats)

1. Avita, Dan Watson

2. Valhalla 3.0, Valhalla Sailing Project

3. Suzie Q, Heidi Frist

Jobson Spinnaker (1 Boat)

1. Jormungandr, Mark Baummer

PHRF Cruiser Non-Spinnaker (5 Boats)

1. Ingenuity, Joe Lombardo

2. Skimmer, Jack and Marti Detweiler

3. Curlew, David Densmore

PHRF Cruiser Spinnaker (3 Boats)

1. Calypso’s Spell, Leon Bloom

2. Tradecraft, Roger Mason

PHRF N (3 Boats)

1. Enchanté, Sarah Rusco

2. Five O’clock, Michael Jewell

Viper 640 (2 Boats)

1. Plymouth Satellite, Mary Ewenson

Harbor 20 (16 Boats)

1. Skimmer, Podlich/Trogdon

2. Resolute, Pam Corwin

3. Riptide, Holger Hinsch

PHRF Spinnaker (3 Boats)

1. Blew Bayou II, Jim Bradshaw

2. Amara, Michel Jichlinski

Back to Back Wins for Team BAAM at the Santa Maria Cup

USA’s Team BAAM, skippered by Allie Blecher, successfully defended their Santa Maria Cup title June 6, defeating Sweden’s Anna Östling and the Wings Sailing Team 3-1 in a dramatic final to win the second stage of the 2026 Women’s World Match Racing Tour. The Santa Maria Cup June 2-6 was hosted by the Eastport Yacht Club in Annapolis.

Blecher, sailing with crew Beka Schiff, Katja Sertl, and Ali Blumenthal Stokes, delivered another outstanding performance in Annapolis to become back-toback Santa Maria Cup champions. The victory follows their breakthrough win in 2025.

Claiming third place overall was the Netherlands’ Julia Aartsen and Team Out of the Box, who defeated Sweden’s Martina Carlsson and the Beyond Racing Team 2-0 in the Petit Final to

complete a highly successful Santa Maria Cup debut.

The final day of racing began with the completion of the semi-final stage. Blecher entered the morning holding a commanding 2-0 lead over Sweden’s Martina Carlsson and wasted little time securing her place in the final, winning the next race to complete a convincing 3-0 win over Carlsson.

In the second semi-final, Sweden’s Anna Östling and the Wings Sailing Team resumed racing with a 1-0 advantage over Dutch skipper Julia Aartsen. A former Santa Maria Cup champion, Östling drew on her experience to control the series, winning the next two matches to advance to the final with a 3-0 match win.

With two of the most accomplished teams in women’s match racing set to face off, anticipation was high as

Principal Race Officer Sandy Grosvenor launched the first-to-three-point championship final between Blecher and Östling

The opening race immediately delivered drama. Östling was ruled over the start line early and was forced to fight back from behind, but Blecher controlled the race from the front to claim the first point of the series.

The Swedish team responded in style in race two. After a tightly contested match, Östling found an opportunity to pass and levelled the score at 1-1, setting up a pivotal third race.

That third encounter proved to be one of the most important races of the regatta. Östling led from the start and appeared in control, but a forced extra tack on the final upwind leg allowed Blecher to gain the inside advantage approaching the top mark. The American skipper

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seized the opportunity, overtaking the Swedish team and converting the lead into a crucial win to move ahead 2-1. With the title within reach, Blecher and her crew produced one final composed performance. Aggressive pre-start tactics earned Team BAAM a penalty against Östling, forcing the Swedish team onto the defensive. Despite carrying the penalty, Östling managed to

take the lead and worked to build enough separation to complete her penalty turn before the finish.

As the boats charged down the final leg, Östling launched a last-ditch attack near the finish line, attempting to force an error from the American crew. Blecher remained calm, avoiding the trap and crossing the line ahead to secure the race, the match and the 2026 Santa Maria Cup title.

“It’s amazing to win this event again,” said Blecher. “We kept our heads in the game and just kept plugging away, even when we were behind. This is the first time our team has sailed together since last year, so it makes the win even more special. It’s a spectacular event and we can’t wait to come back.”

Visit santamariacup.org to learn more.

Looking

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.

Racing in the Twilight

The Sailing Club of the Chesapeake hosted its annual Ted Osius Memorial Twilight Race June 6 off Annapolis.

Top Three Finishers

Cal 25 (4 Boats)

1. Arctic Tern, H. M. Harkenrider

2. High Proof, Jay Smith

3. Harlequin, Leo Surla

J/105 (8 Boats)

1. Good Trade, Peter Bowe

2. Mayhem, Doug Stryker

3. Crescendo, Angelo Guarino

ORC Open (9 Boats)

1. Ma’m’selle, Ed Hartman

2. Lucky Eights, Keith Cole

To qualify, you must acquire 25 points by the end of the year by participating in any of the following:

• Series (fall, weeknight, frostbite) - 5 points

• Charity regatta/race - 5 points

• Volunteer day - 4 points

• Race committee day - 4 points

• Multi-day regattas - 3 points

• Distance or point-to-point race - 3 points

• Attend a racing or rules seminar or class - 3 points

• Single-day regatta - 2 points

• Take a new sailor racing - 2 points

• Donate $50 or more to a sailing charity - 1 point

CHESSS Solo Cup: The Sailing Season for the Bold

This year

CHESSS initiated its first ever Solo Cup as a part of its efforts to add more events on the CHESSS calendar. The choice to add the single-handed event was seen as a return to CHESSS’s early days with its mix of single- and doublehanded oriented events. The collection of a wicked chop, and winds in the high teens, that later climbed solidly into the 20-knot range, and with gusts well above that, this year’s May 30 race treated the contestants to conditions that lived up to our tag line, “Sailing for the bold.”

With a start and finish at West River Green #1, the racecourse took the fleet across the Bay to mark R-86 off Kent Island, south around Bloody Point, up into Eastern Bay and back around the same marks to the finish line. This course was carefully chosen to provide legs on all points of sail in order to more fairly permit members with older boats to race competitively against more modern designs.

With those strong winds, steep chop, and less-than-helpful currents, the racers experienced a mix of challenging beats, difficult mark roundings, powered up reaches, and a “Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride” of a downwind leg. Consistent with past CHESSS heavy air races, despite the demanding conditions only one boat chose to retire.

Stephen Capuano won the race on his Jeanneau SO 410, Basta. Jon Opert took line honors on Orion, his Hanse 371 SD and corrected to second place. Third place went to Michael Viens on his J/100 Specific Gravity

For more information on upcoming CHESSS races and events, visit chesss.clubexpress.com

Oxford Regatta 2026

by

Friday, August 7, 2026 | First Warning 11:00

Boats in ORC Open, ORC Performance Cruiser, CHESSS (Spinnaker and Non-Spinnaker), PHRF A, PHRF B/C, PHRF N, and Multihull classes are invited to participate. Boats in the Boats in an ORC class shall have the pertinent valid ORCi, ORC Club, or ORC Non-Spinnaker rating certificate for the class entered. Boats in a PHRF class shall have a valid PHRF of the Chesapeake rating certificate.

Tred Avon Yacht Club

102 West Strand | Oxford, MD

TAYC invites all skippers, crews, and friends to the Awards Ceremony and after-regatta party on shore.

Great Competition at CRAB’s Don Backe Memorial Regatta

The Don Backe Memorial CRAB Regatta was hosted by the Annapolis Yacht Club on Saturday, June 6. The day provided warm weather and just enough wind to get five competitive races in the full day of competition.

Secretary of the Department of Disabilities Carol Beatty presented a proclamation from Governor Wes Moore designating June Adaptive Sailing Month in Maryland and congratulating CRAB on its 35th anniversary.

Christopher Carbery was a first-time winner, overcoming the 2025 champion Justin Disborough by two points. Christopher’s mother, Jowin, told CRAB, “The impact CRAB has had on Christopher is truly beyond what I could have imagined. He loves the program, and through it, he has grown his confidence, developed a love for learning, and discovered a genuine passion for being on the water.” Learn more at crabsailing.org

Top Three Finishers

1. Christopher Carbery, Michael Manuzack/Amy Harry

2. Justin Disborough, Bob Hyman/ Mimi Engelsman

3. Kevin Detwiler, Trey Warman/ Maude Laurence

Marinas That Meet Your Standards!

Anchorage Marina

Annapolis Landing Marina

Annapolis Town Dock

Bowleys Marina

Breezy Point Marina

Broad Creek Marina

Yacht Haven Of Annapolis Use the SpinSheet Online Marina Directory to filter by top-tier amenities and specialized services. Be sure to mention SpinSheet when you arrive.

Clinton Street Boatel

Flag Harbor Boatyard

Harbor East Marina

Haven Harbour Marina Resorts

Herrington Harbour Marinas

Inner Harbor Marina

Lankford Bay Marina

National Harbor Marina

North East River Yacht Club

Port Covington Marina

If

Rockhold Creek Marina

Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort

Sailing Associates Marina

The Wharf Marina

Whitehall Marina + Yacht Yard

The Rescue Regatta Returns

The fourth annual Rescue Regatta will continue its tradition as a vital fundraiser for the Middlesex County Volunteer Rescue Squad (MCVRS) and a FUN-raiser for the community July 31 to August 1. This exceptional event blends excitement on the water, live music, delicious food, a lively auction, and the spirit of giving to support our dedicated volunteer rescue squad who serve Middlesex County 24/7.

Last year’s event set a high mark, with standout moments like the Colonial Seaport Foundation’s Luna joining the fleet and a record $30,000 check written to MCVRS—the event’s most successful year yet, thanks to generous sailors, sponsors, and attendees.

This year, the Deltaville Maritime Museum, a key partner whose support has helped make the event shine, has graciously offered to host the festivities.

The Midnight Ukulele Society will bring their whimsical style and familiar playlist for a fun kickoff. The Michael Clark Band featuring Tracy Clark on Vocals returns by popular demand.

Event highlights include 4 p.m. happy hour, live music until 8 p.m., refreshments, live auction preview, and skipper’s meeting on July 31. The next morning, racing begins at 11 a.m., happy hour at 4 p.m., live music until 9:30 p.m., and dinner ($35 for dinner and band; $25 for band only).

MCVRS has proudly served since 1956, operating advanced life support ambulances across a large, rural coverage area with

challenging terrain and water boundaries. They rely heavily on donations, the Ladies Auxiliary, and events such as this regatta, as county funding and insurance billing don’t cover everything. Your support funds vehicles, equipment, training, and more, ensuring help arrives when someone calls.

Whether you’re racing, crewing, donating auction items (boats, art, marine gear, gift certificates—past hits!), sponsoring, volunteering, or just joining for the music and community vibe, come be a part of it. For more information, registration, sponsorships, or auction donations, contact Lynn White or Tina Mennett: connect@ rescueregatta.life or (804) 313-9412; register at rescueregatta.life

Small Boat Scene

Three Sneakily Powerful Words

By Kim Couranz

“Idon’t know.” On the surface, those may seem to be three of the hardest words to say in sailboat racing. You may feel like you’re not giving enough information, or that you’re not knowledgeable about something, or that you’re not helping… but you are. Having the confidence to say “I don’t know” while small boat racing can actually be really helpful. Let’s explore some situations where “I don’t know” is a powerful statement that can lead to both success and learning.

“Which way should we go?”

Tactics and conditions can be challenging for sure. Good sailors process and consider all sorts of observations, including wind speed and direction, current, geographical features that could affect the racecourse, weather and tide forecasts, and so much more. Put them all in a pot, shake them up, and oftentimes you’ll come up with an overall picture of the racecourse: Less wind and adverse current on the upwind leg on the left, so we should emphasize the right side of the course. But other times, the situation is, as the Magic 8 ball says, “reply hazy, try again.” Could be that better pressure but bad current cancel each other out, leading to “I don’t know.” And that’s a super reply for that scenario. That lets your driver know that there’s no clear-

cut, must-do up the leg—they can focus on boat speed and boat-to-boat interactions instead.

“Are we crossing?”

Safety is a big one for “I don’t know.” That response should, in a bunch of situations, alert the driver to the fact that things could be dicey. Trying to get across on port, but your crew isn’t sure you’re making it? It might be better to duck to avoid a protest, damage, and/or injuries. Similar safety-related situations that elicit the same response—and thus, awareness of risk—include “How much water is there in front of us?;” “Is that tanker under way?;” and “Is that thunderstorm headed our way?”

“Do we have rights here?”

Can we all agree that sometimes (many times?) the Racing Rules of Sailing are complex, and it can be challenging in the heat of the moment to remember the nuances that can change who has rights and who doesn’t. If you’re unsure, it’s often prudent to assume that you don’t have rights and simply to let the other boat have a little extra space. Most rules situations don’t unfold slowly enough that you can pull out your phone to check (you do have the US Sailing Racing Rules of Sailing app on it, right?). Make

a note of the situation and discuss it with your team back on shore so that you’re better prepared to answer the next time around. Speaking of being on shore…

“Do you know why that worked?”

On occasion, we get to work with coaches, so debriefs after a day of racing are a key part of the learning process. When working with a coach, you definitely don’t need to know all the answers! If they walk you through a scenario that you don’t understand, say so, and benefit from their explanation. If they ask why you were slow downwind and you had been trying everything you could to go faster and nothing was working, offer up that key “I don’t know.” You and your coach can walk through settings and techniques to get you up to speed. Being “coachable” by being humble and curious is one of the best ways to get faster and smarter on the racecourse.

While “I don’t know” on the surface may seem to be three of the hardest words to say in sailboat racing, they’re actually three of the most instructive. And the best sailors tend to be the quietest sailors—they observe, analyze, and come to decisions. They know that admitting uncertainty is not weakness; it’s awareness and the first step in using curiosity to find an answer.

Uncertainty is in a way the essence of sailboat racing: If we were all certain of what the wind was going to do, how our competitors would interact with each other, what our tactical decisions should be, and whether our spinnaker sets would go as planned, racing wouldn’t really be necessary. So, embrace the uncertainty, and offer your “I don’t knows” enthusiastically!

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.

Sailfaster Podcast: Fast Is Simple

Chris Alexander on Boat Speed, Starts, and Staying in Phase

Few sailors in American one-design racing have been as consistently quick in recent years as Chris Alexander. Whether in the VX One or the Melges 15, Chris has built a reputation for exceptional boat speed, sharp starting, and an ability to stay calm under pressure. On a recent Sailfaster podcast, Chris discussed what actually makes boats fast and what racers at every level can learn from the front of the fleet. Here’s an extract:

Sailfaster: What’s the biggest misconception sailors have about speed?

Alexander: People overcomplicate it. Fast sailing is usually about doing simple things really well and reacting quickly. In the VX One especially, I’m constantly thinking about keeping the boat balanced and managing leeway. The boats have very thin foils, so if you oversteer or heel too much, you go sideways. A lot of speed comes from anticipation. If you can react to a puff half a second earlier than the boats around you, you gain a couple of feet. Do that over and over, and it adds up to a huge gain by the top mark.

You’ve talked about “high lanes” being critical in big fleets. Why? Because you can always go higher, but you can’t always go lower. A lot of sailors love footing for speed, but in a crowded fleet that lane disappears quickly. If you can maintain a high lane and keep the bow up without stalling the boat, you control the boats around you. That comes from feel

and understanding when the boat can take another “bite” upward. In college sailing you learn to pinch because the lanes are tight. I think that experience really helped me later in one-design fleets.

What do you have your eye on, racing upwind?

Mostly the water. I spend a lot of time reading the leading edge of puffs. The wind is usually about 90 degrees to that leading edge. If a puff is approaching over your shoulder on starboard tack, it’s probably a lift. If it’s coming straight at your bow, it’s likely a header. That sounds basic, but I think people don’t practice it enough. The best sailors are constantly looking outside the boat.

Your comeback win at the 2025 VX One North Americans was remarkable. What changed on the final day?

Mindset, honestly. We were in ninth going into the final day and knew there would finally be breeze. My crew Ricky and I went

out with total confidence. We weren’t being cautious; we were hunting. One thing I’ve started doing more is meditation and mental rehearsal. Not “visualization” exactly but imagining how the race will unfold. I spent a lot of time before the regatta thinking about starts, shifts, and getting in phase early. By the last race of the regatta, I wasn’t nervous at all. That was unusual for me. I felt like we’d already won before the start even happened.

What separates top sailors from everyone else?

Understanding why the boat is fast. For years I relied mostly on feel, but eventually I got obsessed with rig tune, sail shape, and aerodynamics. Once you understand what makes the boat go fast, you can react faster and make better decisions. The other thing is simplicity. I’m always trying to simplify systems, simplify setup, and simplify my thinking. When things get hectic at a start or a mark rounding, the sailors who stay calm and clear-headed usually come out ahead.

Listen to the full episode on Sailfaster wherever you get your favorite podcasts or on Youtube.

BROKERAGE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS

Crusader Yacht Sales   is a fullservice sail and power brokerage company located in Bert Jabin Yacht Yard. We represent premier brands including Jeanneau Sailboats, Excess Catamarans, Tartan Yachts, Nimbus and Nordic Tugs. Our experienced team of professional yacht brokers, inhouse closing, service, and parts departments support every step of your ownership journey. Visit us at 7350 Edgewood Road, Annapolis, MD 21403, call 410.269.0939, or visit us online at www.CrusaderYachts.com

S&J Yachts, Brokers for Fine Yachts  Since 2004, S&J Yachts has provided expert support for buyers and sellers across the East Coast. Our experienced team offers proven marketing, trusted guidance, and personalized service to help you list with confidence or discover the perfect sail or power yacht. With five regional offices and a reputation for professionalism, we’re committed to delivering exceptional results. S&J Yachts | 410.639.2777   info@sjyachts.com, www.sjyachts.com

To find more used boats, visit spinsheet.com

To advertise in the Brokerage and Classified sections, contact beatrice@spinsheet.com

Yacht View Brokerage LLC offers your power or sailing yacht FREE, 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 Rightboat.com for excellent MLS exposure. We have ABYC certified marine subcontractors at your disposal, including excellent detailers to prep your boat to perfection. 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 ANNAPOLIS yacht broker since 1988, call/text: 443-223-7864,  email:  John@yachtview.com, web: www.yachtview.com

BOAT SHARING

OWN ONE-THIRD of a CATALINA 30 at HERRINGTON HARBOUR SOUTH  1989 Catalina 30 is being placed in a three person LLC partnership. Share ownership, maintenance, and exclusive weekly use every three weeks in a beautiful marina setting. Prefer responsible, good natured, experienced partners. Boat just purchased... needs some upgrades. Ran a previous three-person partnership very successfully! Contact: John Forster – call/text 202.906.9200 or JohnForDC@hotmail.com

PADDLE

18’ Handcrafted Cedar Strip Canoe  Master craftsman glued 1” strips over form, epoxied, varnished. Strong but lightweight 60lb cedar, holly and oak canoe. Bow & stern adorned with beautiful appliqués. 600lb capacity.  $3,800  Contact: 434.294.3736. More photos, visit:  www.tinyurl.com/CedarCanoe

POWER

2003 Wesmac 38  Custom finished lobster style cruiser. Volvo 473 HP. Diesel. Original owner/yard maintained. Inside storage. Asking: $275,000 Contact Bruce: 860.235.5035 Photos/more info, visit:  www.tinyurl.com/Wesmac38

SAIL

14’ O’DAY Javelin Sailboat 1974 (#2946)  Fiberglass. New centerboard in 2021. New mast in 2001. New stays in 1998. Sails: Mainsail + 2 jibs. Anchor. Pop-up rudder. 2022 LOADRITE TRAILER. COMBINATION SALE ONLY – Sailboat + Trailer. PRICE: $600/OBO  LOCATION: Saint Michaels, MD. FOR MORE INFO LEAVE A MESSAGE AT: 610.446.4822 or email  ralph.taylor@temple.edu

22’ Westerly Cirrus 1970  Sturdy British-built fiberglass sloop, 4200 pounds empty. Single keel. Beam 8 feet. Draft 3.5 feet. Main, Jib, Genoa, Roller-reef main. Two 6Hp outboards to choose from: 1976 Johnson or 2015 Yamaha. 6-foot standing headroom in part of the cabin. V-berth plus pilot berth. Ready to sail! Currently docked in Alexandria. No trailer.  $5,000   Contact:  RmSpiller@gmail.com

1971 Ericson 27 Universal gas engine: Moyer heat exchanger + add ons. Double barrier coat, newer harken frl, Bacon main used 2 seasons, newer holding tank, Origo stove. Call for more info: 814.331.2746 or edvartorstenerik@gmail.com

1980 Pacific Seacraft Orion 27  Excellent-condition classic cutter w/ tiller, auto-helm, nav station, full linear galley, dinette, 6’1” headroom, Dutchman mainsail, teak and bronze finishes, updated 3-battery electrical system. $28,500 Contact:  captainslayden@gmail.com More info/photos, visit:  www.tinyurl.com/Orion27ForSale

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

1986 Pearson 28-2  Spacious and safe family cruiser, Draft only 3.5’, sleeps 6. Located in Middle River. $8,500/ negotiable Contact: 443.695.0528. For equipment, specs, pics, Spin Sheet evaluation, and more, visit: www.tinyurl.com/SpecsPearson28-2

29’ Beneteau First 29 ‘85  Spacious, highly stable, comfortable cruiser, keen racer, firm, fast in all wind conditions, delightfully balanced w/ 5.5-foot keel. Two cabins, a well-lit saloon. Furling genoa, fiber genoa, 2 spinnakers, fiber pole. Includes 8-foot dinghy.  $15,000  Call Rich 703.501.5683.

Brokerage & Classified

1993 Catalina 30 Tall rig & winged keel. Has gennaker and whisker pole. Equipment replacements include roller furling, new VHF, new battery charger, and all standing rigging. $25,000 Call 410.971.7264.

2002 Com-Pac 27/2 Well-maintained & owned since 2004; Westerbeke 20B diesel engine; new exhaust; dodger & bimini; bronze ports; cockpit seat cushions; Dutchman sail furling system; roller furling Genoa. Located at Coles Point Marina, Hague, VA. $30,000 Text or call Becky 540.533.1265 or email allanson1@earthlink.net

(Dove) 2001 J Boats J/105 – #409  Proven winner on the Bay. TPI-built SCRIMP boat w/ wheel steering. Includes: dodger, full boom cockpit awning, new cockpit cushions, new B&G wind instrument, batteries and depth sounder and newly rebuilt head. $60,000 Contact: 410.703.3025 or ericgreene409@gmail.com

(Nelly) 1980 Sabre 34 Keel/ Centerboard  Sleeps 5, Edison Wheel Steering, Lewmar Two-Speed Tailing Winches, Cabin Heater, Newer Batteries, Yanmar 24HP Diesel (~1670 hrs.), 110% Jib, 130% Genoa, Mainsail.  $9,000  Located: Worton Creek Marina. Contact:  surftuf@aol.com or 610.299.3598. More info/pics:  www.tinyurl.com/Nelly34

1974 Seafarer 34’ Sloop  Located at Anchorage Marina, Baltimore, MD.  $5,000  Please email  CovertChannel@yahoo.com or call 240.475.8400. For additional photos and info, please visit:  www.tinyurl.com/Seafarer34

1988 Sunbeam 34 Sloop  Wellequipped boat for family cruising on Bay or coastal adventuring. Beautiful interior. Second owner. $35,000/OBO  Contact:  jhbrown1502@comcast.net For more info/photos, visit:  www.tinyurl.com/Sunbeam34

35’ Hunter Legend 1987 Comfortable, fast cruiser. Has modern upgrades, electric toilet, AC/DC refrigerator, autopilot, windlass, chartplotter, VHF radio, newer foresail – she is ready!   $18,000/OBO For more information, contact: ingomartensinc@hotmail.com

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. $19,990 negotiable. Email Jim at  J35ForSale@proton.me or call 41O.9O3.78O1. More photos:  www.tinyurl.com/J35Maggie

1983 Gulfstar 36 Masthead Sloop  Cruise Equipped, Solar, Beta 38, 2 Mainsails, 2 Headsails, Radar, Chart Plotters (2), Refrigeration, New Batteries (2024), Davits, more! Asking $19,995 Contact: 443.871.731O or  home117antares@gmail.com

36’ S2 11.0 Center Cockpit 1982  Masthead sloop rigged sailboat. Yanmar diesel – runs well. Clean inside and out. Good sails. Dinghy w/ 8Hp outboard. Middle River, MD. Asking $15,000 - Half Ownership Available. Call 717.381.9084 for more info.

38’ Irwin CC MKII 1989  Well-kept, Records/receipts, Many new replacements – canvas, full enclosure, fuel tank, air head, H2O heater, GPS, etc. Many accessories – dingy davits, anchors, air conditioning, parts, etc. $29,999  Contact: 443.223.9365. Boat Trader Listing: www.tinyurl.com/38IrwinMK

2000 Cabo Rico NE400 Pilothouse  Major refit in 2022 includes: New Yanmar 4JH80; ZF Transmission; 4 blade Max Prop; PYI shaft seal; B&G Chart plotters and Halon Radar; Vesper AIS; Lewmar V3 Windlass and G4 chain; 200-watt Solar Panels; and much more. Immaculately maintained, w/ Standard equipment that includes: Bow Thruster; In-mast furling main; and two helm stations.  $239,000  For complete listing and pictures, contact  Rossail@goeaston.net

1980 Dickerson 41 Center Cockpit

Ketch  Great cruising boat. Watermaker, new autopilot, new fuel tanks, full dodger and bimini, Highfield UL290 rib, adjustable solar panels and charge controller, Rocna and Delta anchors. $39,000  Call 252.600.2439. More info/photos, visit:  www.tinyurl.com/Dickerson41

Gozzard 44 Cutter 1997 Belle Bateau, ready now! Spacious interior, bow/ stern thrusters, 2 A/Cs, hydronic heating, solar, genset, 2 heads, washer/ dryer. PRICE REDUCED **$259,000** Edgewater, MD. Broker Hilary Howes, 202.701.8911. For more info/photos, visit: www.tinyurl.com/BelleBateau

45’ Beneteau First 456  Recent Awlgrip. Main, genoa, asym in good condition. Stackpack. AirMarine AC. 150-gal water. Hardtop w/ 2 solar panels. Rudder replaced (2021). Engine (2016). Liveaboard/Cruising history Bahamas, BVI, etc.  $25,000/OBO  Contact: 412.303.3996. For photos/ more info: www.us43990.com

2001 Beneteau 331 33’  “Maho Dreams” – The Beneteau Oceanis 331 is a versatile 33-foot cruising sailboat offering comfortable accommodations, easy handling, solid performance, economical design, family-friendly interior, and reliable capability. Reduced $54,900  Call Jeff Jordan 410.320.5183 or  www.CrusaderYachts.com

2022 Saffier 33 LIFE “Saffire” – Highperformance daysailer/racer. Carbon rig and boom, laminate Elvstrøm 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. Reduced  $299,900 – over 500k to replace! Call Mike Titgemeyer 410.703.7986 or  www.CrusaderYachts.com

2001 Tartan 3700 37’  “Thistle” – a well-rounded 37-foot sailboat that blends performance sailing w/ cruising comforts. Lots of cruising updates: new chart plotter, air con, new rudder 2025.

Reduced $149,000   Call Denise Hanna 410.991.8236 or  www.CrusaderYachts.com

2020 Tartan 395 39’  “Top O’ Nok” –

Two cabin w/ A/C, generator, bow thruster, two fridges, freezer, carbon fiber mast, Raymarine instruments, watermaker, solar panels, Kato Davits, dodger, bimini and connector.

Reduced $385,000  Call Denise Hanna 410.991.8236 or  www.CrusaderYachts.com

2005 Pacific Seacraft 40 40’ “Indigo” –AC; boom-furling, cover, varnished teak; Many upgrades; Recent: sails, rigging, electronics, blue ‘awlgrip.”

Reduced $275,000  Call Rod Rowan 410.593.7531 or  www.CrusaderYachts.com

2022 Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 42’  “Bluebird” is an immaculate and wellequipped cruiser w/ a spacious layout, shoal draft, and is ICW friendly. Turnkey condition. On the hard at Jabins. $389,900  Call Matt Weimer 410.212.2628 or  www.CrusaderYachts.com

2007/2024 Tartan 4400 44’  “Silver Girl” is a Tartan 4400 factory update and refit - New carbon rig and updated CCR sailplane, new sails, new electrical and electronics. Complete factory refit June 2024. Rebuilt as new! Asking $499,000 (over $700K invested)  Call Gordon Bennett 410.739.4432 or  www.CrusaderYachts.com

2008 Jeanneau 45 45’ “Seabella” is a 3 cabin/2 head layout. In-mast furling mainsail, ICW friendly, well-maintained by an experienced and knowledgeable owner, many upgrades. Great opportunity to step into a yacht that is well sorted and ready for blue water sailing. Asking  $239,000 Call Bill O’Malley 410.703.9058 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

2016 Lagoon 450F 45’ “Sacre Bleu” is a rare 3 cabin owners version that is loaded w/ all the extra cruising options. Solar, dinghy, raft, power winches, new spinnaker and lazy bag. Reduced  $560,000  Hanna 410.991.8236 or  www.CrusaderYachts.com

2012 Jeanneau 57 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

(Cool Breeze) 37’ Beneteau 373 ‘07  $95,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Red Sky) 37’ Hunter ‘98  $59,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

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 $80,000  Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Little Wing) 38’ Beneteau ‘98  $62,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net (Aurora) 40’ Nauticat ‘85 $145,000 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

Brokerage & Classified

(Shari) 40’ Freedom ‘95 $119,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Firelight) 41’ Rival ‘82 $87,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Antilles Passage) 43’ Beneteau Oceanis ‘10 $124,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

(Blue) 46’ Beneteau ‘97  $119,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

Leave 10% Brokerage Fees in Your Wake Jay Porterfield • Knot 10 Sail (410) 977-9460 • jay@knot10.com

2019 Lagoon 42  Owner version. Updates galore in 2022. $470,000 Knot 10 Yacht Sales – Call Jay 410.977.9460 or  Jay@Knot10.com www.Knot10.com

2001 Hunter 46  Loaded w/ every option - Must see! $142,000  Knot 10 Yacht Sales – Call Jay 410.977.9460 or Jay@Knot10.com www.Knot10.com

Chesapeake Bay Marina

(Siddhartha) 41’ Hunter H41 Deck Salon ‘08 $137,500 Curtis Stokes 410.919.4900  curtis@curtisstokes.net www.curtisstokes.net

2009 Hunter 50 Center Cockpit  Rare fine, beautifully maintained. $274,000  Knot 10 Yacht Sales – Call Jay 410.977.9460 or  Jay@Knot10.com www.Knot10.com

Brokers for Fine Yachts Brokers for Fine Yachts Annapolis, MD 410-571-3605 Rock Hall, MD 410-639-2777 Deltaville, VA 804-776-0604 Charleston, SC 843-872-8080 Palmetto, FL 941-212-6121

www.SJYACHTS.com

35’ Island Packet 350 1997  NEW LISTING - Proven cruiser w/ updated hull design, easy sail handling, and a spacious two-cabin layout. Comfortable, bright interior, excellent ventilation, & Island Packet’s renowned build quality.  $115,000  S&J Yachts, 410.571.3605, www.sjyachts.com

37’ Pacific Seacraft 37A 1998  NEW LISTING - Legendary W.I.B. Crealock bluewater cruiser & Hall of Fame design. Yanmar diesel, A/C, Garmin electronics, Max-Prop, inverter, tender & extensive cruising upgrades. Offshore-ready. $124,900  S&J Yachts, 410.571.3605, www.sjyachts.com

38’ Bavaria C38 2022  NEW LISTING. Lightly used on the Upper Bay. 3 cabin boat. Very well-equipped & maintained. Modern hull shape provides increased stability, performance & space below deck. ICW rig, Furling main, Generator, Bow Thruster, A/C, B&G electronics, Kato Davits & more…  $319,000  S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777,  www.sjyachts.com

40’ Caliber 40 LRC 2001 Cutter-rigged bluewater cruiser w/ Yanmar diesel, Max-Prop, watermaker, wind generator, Mack sails, spinnaker, upgraded electronics, Rocna anchor, full enclosure, Kato davits, 2022 dinghy/9.9HP Tohatsu, and fresh 2026 bottom paint. $174,900  S&J Yachts, 410.571.3605, www.sjyachts.com

41’ Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 409 2013  Lightly used, thoughtfully equipped, & cared for. Offers the perfect balance of performance sailing & comfortable cruising—ideal for couples, families, or anyone ready to enjoy coastal or offshore adventures.  $189,000  S&J Yachts, 410.639.2777,  www.sjyachts.com

42’ Lagoon 42 2018  Owner’s version catamaran w/ no charter history, 2,220Ah lithium, 2,188W solar, generator, watermaker, dual Victron inverters, soft-start A/C, washer/dryer, Code 0, spinnaker, dive compressor, 2025 AB RIB/20HP Honda, and fresh 2025 bottom paint. $430,000  S&J Yachts, 843.872.8080,  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!  $249,000  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

46’ Hunter 466 2002  NEW LISTINGExceptionally equipped 3-stateroom cruiser featuring A/C, generator, bow thruster, in-mast furling & shoal 5’6” draft. Fresh bottom paint, ICW-friendly & cruise-ready. $147,000  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. $398,000 S&J Yachts, 410.571.3605, www.sjyachts.com

49’ 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

62’ Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 62 2020  NEW LISTING - Luxury bluewater cruiser loaded w/ generator, watermaker, A/C, bow & stern thrusters, Code 0, dinghy garage & Highfield RIB. Turnkey worldwide passagemaker. $1,350,000  S&J Yachts, 843.872.8080,  www.sjyachts.com

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MARKETPLACE & CLASSIFIED SECTIONS

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!

CREW

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

DELIVERIES

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

SPADEFISH BOATS & STORE – Boats, Deck Hardware, Electronics & Marine Supplies Go sailing around the bay or across the globe with our sailboats, from daysailers to exploration boats, monohulls and catamarans, including the Lago 26, EOS 28, Palma 30, Seascow 33, Ventio 35, Ponza 35 & 60, OW 36, Ismeria 45, Iroise 48, Mumby 48, Ogham 54. Looking for equipment and accessories? Our online store offers 20,000+ products. Fast shipping from our NJ warehouse! Visit us online:  www.spadefish.store or www.spadefish.net

HELP WANTED

Captain Wanted – Baltimore’s Inner Harbor  Weekends and charters during the week. Our boat is an 86 passenger Pirate boat, twin diesel powered. Flexible hours and competitive pay. Go to urbanpirates.com and apply via the Crew Application link: www.urbanpirates.com/crew-application

Deputy Manager CRAB is seeking a Deputy Manager of Programs to assist in the scheduling of sailing and boating events, scheduling volunteers, working with area nonprofits, and providing support and assistance where needed. Beautiful work environment at Adaptive Boating Center. Send cover letter and resume to ed@crabsailing.org

Help Us Get Our Magazines into Local Hands – SPF Seeking Annapolis Area Distribution Driver!  SpinSheet, PropTalk, and FishTalk (SPF) are seeking a part-time delivery driver to bring our magazines to readers in the Annapolis area, about three days a month. Pay is based on stops completed. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license in good standing, a reliable vehicle, and be able to lift up to 25 pounds. Interested? Email info@spf-360.com to learn more.

HIRING NOW – EXPERIENCED RIGGER AND MARINE TECHNICIAN  M Yacht Services is expanding our team. Seeking a highly skilled rigger and systems technician with a minimum of 5 years’ experience. Top-tier compensation. Benefits include health insurance, paid time off, 401k, team gear, continued professional development, yearly bonus, company-sponsored events and head-of-department incentives. Email your resume to  hr@myachtservices.net or call 410.280.2752.

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

RENTALS

Rooms for Rent in Annapolis – Furnished or Unfurnished Available!  Shared living area, parking included, two pools, and tennis + pickleball courts. Two Furnished Rooms: $1,350/$1,200 monthly; Two Unfurnished: $1,050/$900. Located in The Landings, Annapolis. No pets. Call 41O.267.7074 for details today!

30’-50’ Deepwater Slips for Sale & Rent Flag 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

Sailor’s Wharf Marina on Mill Creek  off White Hall Bay, 20-to-45-foot slips with water & 30-amp electric. 1651 Orchard Beach Road, Annapolis, MD 21409. For more information, please call 443.336.3615 or email sailorswharfmarina@gmail.com

SURVEYORS

Boating

Celebrating 40 Years

For 40 years, Haven Harbour Marina Resorts has proudly served the Chesapeake Bay as a family-owned and operated business, growing from a modest boatyard into one of the region’s premier resort marinas. Over the years, the company has expanded well beyond its original marina, adding resort amenities, award-winning yacht services, the Inn at Haven Harbour, Haven Harbour South, and waterfront dining and events venues. While the facilities have evolved, the company’s mission has remained unchanged: providing exceptional experiences on and around the Chesapeake Bay while preserving the character and maritime heritage that make Rock Hall unique. The milestone marks four decades since founder William T. Brawner purchased the original Haven Harbour property on Swan Creek in 1986, beginning a journey that would transform the waterfront facility into the nationally recognized collection of marinas, lodging, dining and marine services enjoyed today.

“Reaching our 40th anniversary is a testament to the incredible people who have made Haven Harbour what it is today,” said general manager Ed Cecil.

“Our employees, many of whom have dedicated years of service to this company, work tirelessly to create memorable experiences for our guests and slipholders. We are deeply grateful for their commitment, as well as the loyalty and trust our customers have placed in us over these past four decades.”

“As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect not only on how far we’ve come, but also on the community that has supported us every step of the way,” added president James Brawner. “We owe our success to our customers, our dedicated employees, and the people of Rock Hall, who welcomed our family 40 years ago and helped us build something truly special. We are honored to be part of this community and look forward to serving future generations for many years to come.” As Haven Harbour celebrates its 40th season, the company extends heartfelt thanks to its customers, employees, business partners, and the Rock Hall community for their continued support and friendship. Together, they have helped shape four decades of memories on the Chesapeake Bay and laid the foundation for an exciting future ahead. havenharbour.com

New Facility and Updates

Island Packet Yachts closed on its new five-acre facility on February 27 and spent the next five weeks moving and a couple of months getting production up and going. President/owner Darrell Allen says, “We love our new facility, and it will be our forever home with the ability to add another 90,000 square feet to the existing 25,000 square feet. The team is much happier here. At the same time, we are finishing up the redo of the 349 into the 359. The changes are huge and we will be building an amazing 35-foot cruising boat. We have gotten rid of the old IGU and now are building a hull structure unit that provides more hull support and does not limit us to the old IGU layout with the fiberglass berth, settee, and galley bases. We also have hose and wire runs built into the HSU. Now all the bases will be wood and with a much-improved layout.

“We now offer three wood choices: new cherry, light maple, and the traditional sapele. We have made Victron 24V Lithium batteries standard with a 5K inverter versus a 3K. All systems are 24V as well, making for a much more energy efficient boat. We have upgraded the cabinets to solid wood face for a much more quality and modern look. We have upgraded all the hardware as well. We offer wood hull side panels as well as the fiberglass side panels. We have changed the deck to provide 30inch verses 26-inch stanchions and will be offering a complete hard rail option. We now can offer the washer/vented dryer in the 359 like we do the 439, soon becoming the 459. We are doing the same things to the 439, soon to be the 459. We will also be changing the deck on the new 459 and then the 359 after we start production of the new 459. We have 359-01, 02, 03 and 459-02 in production and are about to start production of 42Motor Sailer #03. We have several more 359’s sold and are up to hull #08 of the new 459. We also purchased a new state of the art CNC machine that we love. Things are great here and we have been blessed in so many ways.” ipy.com

New Places To Pick Up SpinSheet

Let’s give a warm welcome to these new SpinSheet distribution stops!

• US One-Design in Annapolis, MD

• City of Lewes Marina in Lewes, DE

The USS Constellation Rigging Restoration Project

The Maryland Historical Trust wrapped up the 2026 Maryland Preservation Awards at the beginning of June. Among other awards, the organization celebrated the specialized craftsmanship and historic trade apprenticeship of the USS Constellation Rigging Restoration Project. The celebration was hosted at the Historic Ships in Baltimore Maritime Museum on Pier One in the Inner Harbor.

As this SpinSheet issue comes out, the ship will be in docked Baltimore Harbor for Sail250 Maryland and Air Show Baltimore, looking stunning and ready for decades of learning to come. The preservation of the USS Constella-

tion as the last surviving Civil War-era naval vessel afloat represents a pinnacle achievement in maritime heritage.

Led by Historic Ships in Baltimore and Living Classrooms Foundation, the project marked the first full conservation of the ship’s three masts in 27 years. Skilled riggers employed traditional maritime techniques and historically appropriate materials to ensure the project reflected the ship’s original design, function, and appearance. Beyond technical restoration, the vessel served as a “living classroom,” providing hands-on training for workforce participants.

Historic Ships Baltimore executive director, Steve Bountress, says, “As USS

Constellation welcomes visitors during Sail250 Maryland, it’s especially meaningful to see the ship standing tall over Baltimore Harbor with her restored masts and rigging. This project was about more than preserving a historic vessel—it was about showcasing and sharing traditional maritime skills with the general public and with the young apprentices enrolled in our Maritime Workforce program.

“After nearly two years of planning and six months of hands-on work, the project resulted in the first comprehensive conservation of Constellation’s masts and rigging since 1999, helping ensure the ship remains a centerpiece of Baltimore’s waterfront and a platform for learning for decades to come. We are honored that the Maryland Historical Trust recognized a project that brought together preservation, education, and workforce development in such a meaningful way.”

The Maryland Preservation Awards traditionally open each year in January. Keep your eyes peeled for an announcement early next year so that you can nominate a project in your community.

PERFORMANCE CRUISING & RACING SAILS

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