In April, I finally pulled anchor in St Thomas. Not just for a trip to the BVI’s but a 200 mile passage SE to Antigua for the Classics (www.antiguaclassics.com). I was meeting up with some friends on S/V Astor and crewing for them during the races. This was my first and hopefully not last, regatta. I had a great time. Astor won many awards however the “Best in Show” was probably my favorite. The rest were focused on the racing but winning the “prettiest” boat award with all those other amazing vessels is something to brag about. The sail took me about 40 hours as it was east and I had to beat against the wind. I spent about 9 days there, racing for 4, cleaning the boat one day, and partying the rest. Free drinks and food were served every night with Astor kicking down for dinner most nights. I can’t remember the last time I ate so well. I think it must have been on the Sony expense account in Vegas to tell you the truth. The sail back was great, often hitting 8-9kts as I sailed dead down wind for most of the trip.
This got me pretty excited as the course back to St Thomas is nearly identical to my next passage…St Thomas to Ft Lauderdale via the Bahamas and Turks. Not sure how long we’ll stop in the Bahamas and/or Turks but we’ll play it by ear. I didn’t chart it out yet but it’ll be close to 1600 miles. Doing an average of 6-7kts…well, let’s just say it’s a long one. My buddy Sean got a pass from his wife and 3 boys in Austin to do the passage with me. I’m excited to have someone else along for the ride but would prefer a blonde, 6’with 34C’s but I guess I can’t complain. Noel on s/v Ketchin Up will be leaving with me…..single-handing the trip. His wife and 3 boys are flying out of St Thomas on 5/7, right before we leave. They’re anxious to get home and Noel wants to do a single-handed passage….well, he picked a good one to say the least! Based on historicals, there’s about a 2% chance we’ll get hit with severe weather so since it’s me we’re talking about, bet on it! It should be all downwind but the swells on the stern may make it a bit rolly out there. At least they won’t be on the nose like I had when leaving Panama to come East. I can’t wait to get back to the States but at the same time, I know I’ll miss what I have here. Hopefully, I can find a job and replenish the kitty and get back down here.
In a sick sort of way, I really do miss work and what not. I’ll start my search when I get to Georgia and play it by ear. If anyone reading this knows of any positions that I may enjoy, shoot me and email and let me know. I’m a hell of a guy that brings the best out in any company I join :) Thanks!
Dan (trying to post pics buy my laptop died and I can't get them to load at this time, stay tuned!)
