Stockton Lake Messabout 2014
The campsites we had at Crabtree Cove were right on the water with a nice gravel beach to pull the boats up on. It was very easy access to sailing, swimming and visiting with each other. It got a little busy into the weekend, but we had no issue with loud or obnoxious campers. Quite the contrary, everyone that came down to look at the "strange" assortment of boats were very friendly.
Friday's sailing was nice. Winds were in the 12mph range and steady. Saturday, maybe a little higher winds, but barely. We were lucky enough that they carried over well into the night. We even managed to get in a moonlight sail trip. We set out about 8pm and got back around 10:30. Sailing by moonlight is a great experience. Especially under the "Supermoon" full moon.
Sunday, the winds were howling early on then just died. I guess there was supposed to be a wind direction change ahead of a front and we must have got caught in it like a slack tide. I said my goodbyes to those that were still in camp and made the drive home to my family hanging by the in-laws' pool.
My Sea pearl 21 in the foreground.
Frank's 24' Wa'apa outrigger sailing canoe
Gene's boats - a Michael Storer Quick Canoe and two boats based on Jim Michalak designs, V-Fly and Fat Fly
Sailing behind Michael's O'Day Daysailer
There were quite a few large boats on the lake. It was a nice weekend for sailing.
Sailing "wing on wing"
Paul's Iain Oughtred Acorn and Michael's O'Day Daysailer
Paul's Iain Oughtred Acorn, easily the nicest build there. Beautiful boat and looked to row very smooth for its waterline.
My SP21 and Frank's Wa'apa
The beach really started filling up on Saturday.
Paul's Family Skiff and Acorn next to Daryl's Compac 16
Michael's Daysailer, he was kind enough to take me for a sail to get ice across the lake. We traded off throughout the day. I got to learn more about sloop rig handling.
Bruce brought a Larsboat and a Puddle Duck Racer (PDR)
Frank tries out the Larsboat
Gene's grandson Sean learned to paddle the Quick Canoe
Heading out for the moonlight sail with Gene and Sean.
I took Bruce out Sunday morning, but the wind died on us.
Frank and Carol on the Wa'apa 24'
Gene and his V-Fly
Bruce and his PDR
It was a great weekend of camping and sailing. Glad I got the chance to see everyone and meet some new folks, too. Couldn't have asked for better weather in July. It was warm, but not as hot as usual. The bugs even seemed to be held at bay. Thanks again to everyone for coming out!
Comments