Over the years, my sailing has taken me all over the local and majestic harbor here located just north of the famed Channel Islands, as well as out to the local islands, including Santa Catalina. My "Sailing Bud" and wife, Jennifer, lovingly refers to me as "The Skipper" and has been known to hum the 3-hour tour theme from Gilligan's Island when we sail from the harbor.

      Our sailing pastime is to venture over to Santa Cruz Island, often spending weekends at a time, simply dingying around the rugged coastline, exploring all the numerous caves and coves the Island has to offer. Most famous of the caves is Painted Cave which extends some 1,600 feet in length, and home to a plethora of seal species who are not shy in letting visitors know who's boss!

      Of course, one of the fascinations of sailing is all the wildlife to be seen, including seals, dolphins, whales, flying fish, and of course, the pelicans and other sea fowl. One of my favorite photos was a shot I got of three dolphins who accompanied Jennifer and I on one of our cruises. We lovingly referred to them as Larry, Moe and Curly. You try to figure out who's who.....

      Well, the Sailing Season began a while ago and what a start! Jennifer and I were fortunate enough to have caught sight of a couple of whales, one of which came right up to our starboard side and flopped his tonnage right next to our Ericson 27....then went under to only shoot up out of the water some 12-15 feet....just as we've all seen Shamu do down at San Diego! Exciting is understatement to describe the beauty of that scene. Next time, I'll try to have my camera ready to capture the Kodak moment.

      Upcoming will be more photos taken of the various coves we've visited. Until then, may the wind be at your back and your sails filled....

Mark Rosenstein's Sailing Page

Sailnet: The Internet Sailing Community

U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety

Steve Fossett & Play Station