by RhodySail » Thu May 16, 2013 11:15 am
For any of who might be on the fence take a look at some of the information below and get off the fence!
A few informational notes I hope will be helpful;
LAUNCHING & BOAT RAMP:
Because wind is typically scarce in the early hours getting underway much before 11am is probably not worth the effort. That also gives us a reasonable amount of time to rig up, launch and get moving.
The ramp has ample parking and set-up space but can get crowded on summer weekends There are 2 ramps however one is typically quite sandy thus most boats prefer to use the other which is grooved concrete. If you have 4X4 the sandy ramp will be a quick and easy option for you.
The dock is for loading/unloading but there is a sandy beach to either side we can beach ourselves on to wait or help others get set up.
I admittedly don't do much trailering but I'm thinking if we're all there by 10am we should mostly be in the water and ready to roll by 11. I suggest everyone park on the far end of the lot to get set up so we can get set up together and steal new ideas off each other.
SAILING ROUTE/CONDITIONS
The channel leaving Warwick Cove is rather narrow and faces due south, which is typically dead into the wind.. An 11am departure gives us a reasonably high tide so we can escape the confines of the channel fairly quickly and begin our tacks out.
That said, auxiliary power is helpful leaving this cove whether it be oars or engine. Depending on the conditions I'll be able to recommend the easiest way out the morning of.
18-22 MPH winds are common and can kick up quite a chop. It makes for fun sailing but be sure to have a bailer as you'll most certainly be getting some water over the rails.
Getting around Prudence and back will be about 21 miles. I will be setting up a cookout/campfire site on the Northwest Point of Patience Island which is about 3 miles from the ramp.
COOKOUT
Approach the Northwest point of Patience Island from the North. There is a gentle-sloping rocky beach to pull up on. So long as you are in front of the beach there are no hazards on the approach. Typically a strong southerly makes it easy to anchor off the beach. Be sure to wear some type of shoes to walk up and around the beach.
Beyond the beach is a flat area we have a make-shift grill and fire pit set up on. I'll drop off charcoal, firewood, and some food and beer in the morning. In the spirit of keeping things simple I'm thinking burgers, dogs, sausages, corn, etc. With some luck there will be plenty of quahogs to dig up and throw on the grill as well but certainly feel free to bring whatever you might desire after a long sail.
Sunset is quite late that day but be mindful that the wind comes down about 5:00 pm with the temperature and we'll be about 3 miles out so again some type of auxiliary power is recommended if you're not camping.
CAMPING:
The area around the fire pit is flat and rather comfortable place to pitch a tent. Stay out of the tall grass to avoid ticks. The point faces due west and provides spectacular sunsets so I certainly recommend sticking around if you're up for it. (nav lights also help).
I'm getting excited and I hope everyone can make it. If you know anyone else with a trailerable boat certainly encourage them to join our merry band. Please let me know if you have any other logistical questions/requests or recommendations.
Happy compounding & waxing...looking forward to seeing you all soon.