By Joe Motil, Cruising Captain
The June Cruising event happened this past weekend with four hale and hearty folks enjoying what was, as usual, a great event. True to form, the “June Gloom” was upon us and is characterized by a heavy marine layer that persists longer. We enjoyed a lovely dinner at Shenanigans on Thursday night before returning to the boat and preparing for our sail to Catalina.
Friday morning, we had final checks and made ready as we slipped our dock and headed out. We are accustomed to motoring past the Queen Mary and the cruise ship dock before heading up the channel, and behind the seawall, toward Angel’s Gate and the LA Lighthouse. Next, we set our sails and head out, adjusting to the sea state as we go. There were many opportunities to share boat handling as we crossed to Isthmus Cove at Two Harbors Catalina Island. Once there, we got our mooring assignment, drove to “Bravo 5”, picked up our line, and secured and snugged the boat in place. Even the Harbor crew said we looked pro.
Out came the appetizers, as we enjoyed the surrounding scene and relaxed after a good journey across. After a bit, I launched into the galley and began dinner: a Chicken/Tofu lemon caper piccata, roasted peppers with sweet potatoes, and Fettuccini. Clean-up was easy as there was not much left on the plates.
Saturday breakfast was coffee and oatmeal/raisins, along with fruit. Then we make ready to explore what the island has to offer in whatever form we wish—this trip, we chose to take the “Cyclone” over to visit Avalon. Once back at Isthmus, we stay ashore for showers (8 quarters for 3 min), drinks, and dinner at the only restaurant. Captain Bob was also there teaching another ASA class, and everyone aboard his charter joined us for dinner. I was pleased to pass him the “Good Luck Bag” for his upcoming Transpac adventure with members of the Southshore Yacht Club. We enjoyed fun and lively discussions, and the dinner was excellent—a perfect day before retiring to our boats.
Sunday, we get up early, eat breakfast, slip our ball, and are homeward bound. On the return leg, we had enough wind to raise sails and run with a following sea for a bit. Further out, the wind calmed down, requiring us to motor the rest of the way back. About two-thirds across the San Pedro channel, the helm called out, “Dolphins!” and we were excited to see a big pod of about 50 dolphins swimming toward and around us. Everyone was snapping pictures, trying to catch the swiftly moving group. Some folks are lucky enough to capture a dolphin leaping, which they often do.
Happily, we slip back through Angel’s Gate and take in the sights while returning to Rainbow Marina. Our weekend adventure was ending, but we were not finished yet. Nearing the Queen Mary, we watched a sailboat motor straight onto a shoal, oblivious to the warning marks, and we gasped as it lifted from the water. It ran into the sandy bottom three times before it was able to turn around and head out to deeper water. Groundings are certainly not something we witness on every trip!
All in all, this was another fun adventure cruise. You, too, can experience the fun and excitement: all you have to do is join in on one and let the good times roll! Check out our Cruising Schedule and contact me for availability.
Go to the photo gallery for more pics Photos: Joe Motil
