The 2024 sailing season has drawn to an end. Just prior to the end of the season, the mast was removed and tasks completed so we could do the final Mitchell race to Block Island over Columbus weekend. Some pending mast chores completed include replacing the VHF antenna, run new wind sensor cable, replace a broken spinnaker sheave, lubricate sheaves, inspect the rig, and wax the mast. This was all turned around over four days!
New VHF Antenna & Connector Test
Vento Solare was delivered to Borden Light Marina on Tuesday 21 October and hauled the same day. Some warm weather provided the opportunity to patch some peeling spots on the keel, bottom sand, paint and hull wax. On Halloween the boat cover was put on so the boat is ready for the winter snow.
Vento Solare gets Some Patches Before Bottom Painting
Over the winter a few minor projects will be done inside the boat. Come spring, we'll have a wet sanding party to do the bottom so the boat can be launched early for the 2025 season. For now, we are ready for the 1st snow!
Covered and Waiting for First Snow
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Tristan Mouligne captured this picture from the Class 40 Res Potentia on Saturday morning. Vento Solare is limping into Newport with the spinnaker wrapped around the headstay. This occurred when a letterbox douse was attempted the evening before while trying to round R32 off Gay Head, Marthas Vineyard. The spinnaker became badly wrapped around the headstay and jib while unfurling the jib for a letterbox douse. Sarah was hoisted up the mast 1/3 of the way in the dark to try and unwrap the spinnaker but was unsuccessful. Thus the decision was made to retire and motor back to Newport. We tied up to a mooring at Coasters Harbor and hoisted Sarah to the top. The spinnaker head was fouled under the headstay and caught on the upper swivel, preventing the furler from moving in either direction. Sarah disconnected the spinnaker halyard and was able to unwrap the spinnaker. Once that was done we were able to unwind the rest of the spinnaker without damage, and completely unfurl, then refurl the jib.
Lisa flying the spinnaker on delivery to Tiverton
Fantastic weather for a spin run up the bay, followed by dinner at the Boathouse with Lisa, Francis, Pat, Cindy & Bill. The boat is all set for the race Saturday.
A great time and memories on Block Island with everyone this weekend. Here is a link to my photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/mByUFS7qtx2Vdz2d8
The drone we saw tonight was Stephen Cloutier's (Block Island Steve). Here is a link to some great video under spinnaker.
Vento Solare Spinnaker Video
Thanks to Lisa, Kathy, Sue & Gerry Vento Solare was wet sanded in no time at all with perfect wet weather to help. Here are a few pictures from Sue's phone. Thanks for your help!