September 2017 – Life On a Beam Reach

The Gulf of Maine – A Happening Place

We recently had the pleasure of crossing the Gulf of Maine in Alembic with a friend Sarah, an experienced biologist. Sarah kept us alert to wildlife sightings and also shared a number of interesting facts about this unique body of water. The Gulf of Maine is about 36000 square miles bounded to north by Nova… Continue reading The Gulf of Maine – A Happening Place

Western Caribbean Short Cruise

Sailing route from Florida through the western Caribbean back to Florida

For US East Coast cruisers looking to extend their cruising experience beyond the Bahamas, the Western Caribbean short cruise offers an adventurous alternative to the more common Eastern Caribbean destinations such as the BVI and Windward Islands. My version of the “Short Cruise” includes Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Honduran Bay Islands, Belize and Mexico. For those… Continue reading Western Caribbean Short Cruise

Standup Paddle Board Storage Solution

The SUP rests on hooks connected to the lower shrouds. Straps hold the SUP securely to the standing rigging.

A common item stored on boats these days is the Standup Paddle Board or SUP. They are a wonderful piece of equipment to have aboard and are generally easier to stow and transport than kayaks. I like to use the SUP for exercise or just to get away from the boat and enjoy the edges… Continue reading Standup Paddle Board Storage Solution

Upgraded Stern Rails and Lifelines

Solid section of lifeline at the exit of the cockpit to the side deck

We recently completed upgrades to the aft lifelines of Alembic. Our goal was to add a mounting place for solar panels as well as to increase safety and security. First we added a stanchion just aft of the mizzen shrouds. We then added top and mid rails using 1″ SS tube and associated fittings. We… Continue reading Upgraded Stern Rails and Lifelines