Florida to New York

[Marlene A. Sassaman]

Although I declared my intent to sail to New York Haror several weeks ago. Yesterday, I took the first step toward making it a reality. After 5 hours or scrub a dub-dub, SPRAY, my vessel of choice, is at least in a condition to note any areas in need of repair. Two mini dings, next to each other show about a 1 inch chip in the gelcoat. Then, there are the stress cracks around a few of the fittings, some ring-dings in need of replacement and that itsy bitsy sink drain that is filled with all kinds of sticky things.

The big deal is a new jib. After sending a deposit for a new one, my dearly beloved husband was laid off from his job. At least he had the gumption to cancel the order for fear it will take him a while to find another source of income. Bad timing, but not unusual as he is a constant job changer. So, the question is do I use my boat funding to get the jib and risk not going into financial ruin should he not get hired very soon? Or, do I sacrifice my dream?

Duh? What's a woman to do? Buy the dern jib, I say!

[Marlene A. Sassaman]

You are so right; I am spending time tonight research used sails. :-) Thanks for your input.

[Larry Wilson]

Re: warning about Bacon's...they were sued ONCE, and the situation was rectified. Mrs. Bacon was known to have a temper, and apparently she got pissed at the customer.....things happen. There are probably 100 other places to buy used sails. The point is, there are alternatives to new.

[Marlene A. Sassaman]

Hi Bella,
I appreciate your caution about the Carolinas. You are right, I am spoiled by Florida's coastline and have trepidation about sailing 'outside' on my first overnight solo sail. Sailing/motoring the ICW will be fine, as I enjoy just the cruising. I'm currently noting all the possible fuel stops as I can only carry 15 gallons of gas. This excursion will definitely be about the 'journey' though my heart is set on sailing into NY Harbor. Thanks, too for the advice about bacon sails. I convinced myself to buy a new one because I use my boat nearly every week-end throughout the year. There aren't that many F28s though I have put the word out with that group. Cheers, Marlene

[Marlene A. Sassaman]

Wow, I certainly appreciate the benefit of learning to make a sail; having to juggle a full time job while maintaining a hectic racing schedule my time is limited. Perhaps when I fully retire in two years making my own sail will be reasonable.

I plan to sail north the end of May beginning of June. :-)

[Larry Wilson]

Marlene,
I agree with Suky. Buy used. Bacon Sails in Annapolis has a fantastic inventory of used sails, and you can buy for less than half the price of new. You've done the hardest part, deciding to go for it. Live the dream!!!

[zeehag]

i say what suky says--there are plaqces on line for inexpensive replacement sails----research and go for it---donot neeed brand new stuff all the time---and learning to make your own is an excellent thing--also a potential source of emergency income....

[Gary Johnson]

Hola Marlene, My first thought was why, would anyone want to sail from Florida to New York in March? Maybe I have the schedule wrong, but I would reccomend waiting till May to start north. Will you be in the ICW or outside? Be sure to spend a night on the hook, behind the Statue of Liberty,, It is a good spot and quite a sight as the lights of New York come on, Smooth sailing, gary

[Suky]

Hi Marlene, Buy the jib but perhaps buy used or find a better price or make your own. Not impossible.
I'll be there to welcome you into New York Harbor ! Will you have time to sail along the south shore of Long Island to Shinnecock Bay in Hampton Bays, New York. We'll show you a great time... we have a fleet of Hobies, kite-surfers, kayaks...... but most important great food.. and a safe and beautiful anchorage...