Sailing Adventures: A Week on the Water
Ep 10 First time sailing offshore - https://youtu.be/SdzqXlFbIUU
Hey there,
I (Tammy) recently had the incredible opportunity to join some friends on their brand-new to them 50-foot Gulf Star ketch. This journey marked their inaugural sail after losing their previous boat just five months ago due to an unforeseen hazard not marked on the charts. It was a momentous occasion for them, and I was grateful to be invited along for the ride.
As we set out from Tampa, our destination was clear: we needed to get the boat out of Florida and away from the hurricane zone. Our route took us from Tampa down around the keys and up the East Coast towards the Carolinas. The weather was beautiful, and everything went smoothly as we embarked on this adventure together.
One of the most exciting aspects of this trip was the chance to learn more about sailing. The boat we were on was very similar to the one my family owns, so everything I learned on this journey will be directly applicable when we set sail on our own boat. From navigating storms to adjusting the sails, every experience was a valuable lesson.
We encountered a variety of weather conditions, from calm seas to rough waters and everything in between. Dodging squalls and navigating through following seas tested our skills and brought us closer together as a crew. There were moments of exhilaration and moments of apprehension, but through it all, we remained focused on our goal.
As we made our way up the Atlantic coast of Florida, we faced some navigational challenges. The Gulf Stream's strong current made it difficult to stay on course, but with teamwork and determination, we persevered. Our journey took us to Key West, South Palm Beach, and eventually up towards Charleston.
Overnight passages were a new experience for me, and I quickly realized that I have much to learn before undertaking them with my own family. The nights were long, and the seas could be unforgiving, but each challenge was an opportunity for growth.
One of the highlights of the trip was encountering a pod of playful dolphins. They danced alongside our boat for hours, a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the ocean.
As we docked in South Palm Beach to refuel and prepare for the next leg of our journey, I reflected on the incredible experiences of the past week. I've learned so much about sailing, navigation, and life at sea. It's been a humbling and exhilarating adventure, and I can't wait to continue learning and exploring in the days to come.
Until next time,
Tammy