Winter Nostalgia for Sailors

As winter settles in and temperatures plummet, a familiar meme of Kermit the Frog gazing out at a snowy landscape often comes to mind. The caption usually humorously asks, 'Does my boat think of me while she's alone in the boatyard?' This sentiment rings true for many sailors as we find ourselves longing for the adventures of warmer months.

The Itch to Sail

With the cold wind howling outside, it's tempting to remain cozy at a desk, but the itch to sail never truly fades. While I might be inside, my thoughts inevitably drift towards what maintenance tasks need tackling on my beloved vessel. The meticulous planning quickly spirals into nostalgic recollections of past cruises, the feelings they evoked rather than just the events.

Cherished Memories of Sailing

I vividly remember the blissful relief we felt upon reaching Andros after a tempestuous Aegean crossing. There was a unique mix of excitement and nerves as we ventured into the vastness of the Pacific Ocean after navigating the Panama Canal. Every catch of a fish, especially that exhilarating moment when I reeled in my first tuna during an Atlantic crossing, holds a special place in my mind. These cherished memories serve as a balm for the winter blues.

Enchanting Night Passages

Yet, what I miss the most are those enchanting night passages. Under a blanket of stars, the night sky offers a stunning display, and without moonlight, it’s pure magic – the constellations familiar, and the trail of bioluminescence sparkling behind us adds to the mystery. During a full moon, everything is illuminated; the shimmering waves and sails create an ethereal atmosphere. With our autopilot, affectionately named Mole, guiding our course, the night becomes a perfect backdrop for what I refer to as 'night-thinking,' a time for deep reflection and contemplation.

Challenges at Sea

The serenity of these moments, however, can be disrupted. Sudden squalls might transform that peaceful journey into a flurry of activity as we rush to reef the genoa and make course adjustments, hoping for lighter winds rather than facing a mini-gale.

Navigating Coastal Areas

Navigating coastal areas brings its own challenges, where ships—though less frequent out at sea—are a common sight. With the help of AIS technology, keeping track of vessels has become easier, yet attentiveness remains crucial. I recall a particular crossing from Sicily to Greece, where, immersed in the beauty of the heavens, I nearly ignored a lurking ship on the horizon. Handing over my watch to Rod, I proudly reported no concerns—only for him to quickly enlighten me that what I mistook for a vessel was actually a rising star, eliciting laughter from us both.

Looking Forward to Summer Nights

As I await the return of summer nights filled with gentle breezes and starry skies, I gear up for the tasks ahead. The promise of voyages yet to come ignites excitement for the adventures that await.

A Spirit That Remains Active

While the winter months may call for inside activities, the spirit of sailing remains alive in my heart, urging me to keep dreaming and planning.

Upcoming Articles

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