By Joe Motil, Cruising Captain
The most recent AYC Cruising trip to Catalina Island was magical. We had not one, two, or three, but four boats form a loose flotilla with compasses set to Isthmus Cove at Two Harbors Catalina Island! I skippered Avalon (Dufour 375), and Joel Oglesbee skippered Quiver 2 (Beneteau 45) out of Rainbow Marina in Long Beach. Court Robert’s boat (Bavaria 51) came up from San Diego, and Jeff and Cynthia Barnes joined us on Marley’s Ghost (Catalina 42) from Marina Del Rey!
We had something extraordinary happen for those entering the San Pedro channel. A full day of good wind. It is rare to sail end to end, but we had great winds and a compliant sea state. As is the tradition, we had our American Flag, the Arizona flag, and the AYC Burgee flapping vigorously in the wind as we sailed to our destination. Many other little traditions were revisited along the way, as is usual for these trips.
What a wonderful weekend as we converged on the cove, grabbing mooring balls and making “Island Day” a great adventure for all 19 Arizona sailors and their guests. But wait, there’s more! We also arranged to have dinner in the beachfront dining area. We spread out around five tables, which made it very conducive to sharing tall tales, enjoying great food and drink, and unrivaled fellowship.
Joe Motil, Pam Neff and Gary Eagle. 
Steve Demar, Ken & Marney Whitley and guest Uwe Kweppelberg. 
Cynthia & Jeff Barnes, Don Weaver and guest. 
Court Roberts and crew. 
Delicious food. 
Warm weather and cool drinks are a great combo! 
Joel Oglesbee & Rachel Kennett with their crew. 
Rachel tracked their long hike. 3+ hours.
This is what the Cruising program is all about. The camaraderie of like-minded sailors in multiple boats converging at a destination. Our recent trip to Catalina Island was a perfect example of this. We even discussed reinstating contests so we’d have bragging rights at dinner. We could play games like corn hole and horseshoes or host water events like a “Dingy Desperation Swim or Row!” Traditions and the sense of community are what make our events so special.
Now, you might think this pirate has a tendency for spinning yarns, and if that is your view, ask any of those who made the trip to see what was special about it. One thing is certain – I greatly appreciate all who helped organize and make this trip a beauty to behold.
What say you? If you’d like to join in and have a ton of fun while you enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Catalina Island and all it has to offer, making memories with you and yours, then “permission to come aboard granted!” View the upcoming cruises here.
Joe Motil
AYC Cruising Fleet Captain
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