Bella

Of the many things I enjoy about sailing, introducing others to sailing is one of the things I enjoy most. This is especially true when it is someone close to me. This was the case recently when after a very long eighteen months our daughter Natalie returned from her mission to Argentina. She had been on Bella once but never sailing. So, a week ago I took her on her maiden sailing voyage. Okay, voyage is an overstatement since we just sailed down the coast a bit but voyage sounds much more dramatic doesn't it?

There was a good wind that day blowing consistently 18 knots and at times extending to 20 knots plus. It was clear and warm enough to make for very pleasant sailing.

Natalie did great and seemed to have all the normal first-timer emotions. She loves the marina atmosphere, the ocean breeze and sounds of sea. She seemed immediately at home on Bella as we left the slip. However, once under sail and heeling a good measure I'm convinced she thought Bella was going to capsize. Ahh, Bella can heel much further than this and still hold course.

We sailed down the coast to Huntington Beach on a single tack. After coming about we were able to sail back to Long Beach on a single tack.

Once back we completed the introduction with Rubio's and Yogurtland! Another great day at sea!