Sailors are busy getting their vessels ready as the cruising season approaches and meetings seem to become a lower priority. So a smaller than usual V. I. Fleet group gathered at RVYC on April 6 for a presentation on first aid kits and applications by Alert First Aid’s Mike Barnes. Dr. Catherine Ascah was present to provide some advice on medicines that might be prudent to include on board an offshore cruising boat.
Mike’s presentation was preceded by Stefa Katamay showing off her stylish Thermal Protective Aid.
On April 20 the group ended this years fleet meetings with a discussion on self steering devices. The meeting was well attended, informative, and entertaining. Ken Newman showed the group his pricey but very handy Sail Step extolling its safety, quality, and convenience in assisting the docking procedure. Don Craigmyle demonstrated his mast ascending gear with a promise to demonstrate on a real mast during the upcoming boat tours being held the following Saturday and Sunday.
The group then participated in an engaging discussion regarding self-steering gear (both wind vanes and autopilots) and provided suggestions for meeting topics for next October and November.
I’d like to close with a big thanks to the V. I. Fleet group for your enthusiasm and engagement this year and praise to Connie for her guidance in my first year on the watch. You have all made it a pleasure and privilege to participate.
Happy Sails and I’ll see you in the fall.