Greetings, Wayfarers:

 

We've turned the corner and are now into the new year.  The days are lengthening and Spring lies just below the horizon.  The end of May will find Spring in full bloom on the shores of the Chesapeake and we who are regular Wayfarer cruisers plan to be there enjoying the sun and beauty of Maryland's historic Eastern Shore again this year.  Last year five Wayfarers participated in this cruise and we had a terrific time.  We can handle more than that number so give this some thought as you make your summer plans.

 

The cruise plan will follow much the same format as last year.  We will meet at Crisfield (above) Tuesday, May 27th and spend our first night there enjoying a great seafood dinner and relaxing in the excellent facilities of Somers Cove Marina. 


If past experience holds true we will get fantastic sailing in steady 12 to 15 knot southwesterly breezes, catch spray over the rail, and need plenty of protection from intense sunshine.  

 

Visiting Smith and Tangier Islands, especially more remote Tangier, is a special opportunity that offers a rare and unique window into the past.  These two renowned tourist attractions that have no equals on Chesapeake Bay. 



The permanent island communities still reflect many aspects of the way of life of the watermen and seafood industry (above) that existed a hundred years ago.  This experience is always memorable. 


In addition to these main attractions, our exploration is also likely to include a side trip and beach landing on the delightful, uninhabited and picturesque Watts Island (above), a new discovery for us last year.  

 

The vast majority of the marsh land of the Eastern Shore, consisting of millions of acres, is set aside as a huge Federal wildlife refuge.  All during the cruise, we will see large numbers of many fascinating varieties of sea and marsh birds.  No bird watcher should pass up such an opportunity.

 

As I've stressed in the past, this is a wonderful cruise for couples, and I would really like to see more take advantage.  Throughout the cruise, we will be staying in nice comfortable full service marinas.  Food preparation requirements are minimal as good restaurants are close by.  Sailing conditions are usually easy to moderately difficult, but the Chesapeake can be challenging.  Skippers need to have prior experience and be able to handle rough seas if necessary.  Reefing capability is a must and all the normal safety and cruising gear normally expected on a cruising Wayfarer needs to be present.

 

In the past we have had skippers looking for crew.  If you would like to be a crew or have other questions feel free to contact me at rmharrington@sbcglobal.net.

 

Sincerely....................DICK