You guys have patiently followed this thing through so many years of building. Today the focus changes.

The skipper was tearful after a loving sendoff from the co-owner. Zoom in on her waving us away. It was a peaceful morning sailing past The City. Then, par for my long course, we had to stop in Sausalito because my-built half of Keith’s new water tight escape hatch bolting device wasn’t good enough. Jeanne drove to the boat with stainless steel parts to mate with the Skateaway handle, and we departed the bay three hours later than planned.

Tonight we’re safely anchored in Half Moon Bay under a beautiful moon.

I wanted a mellow September sail out the Gate and make the easy southbound left turn. Instead the Gulf of the Farallones roared the way it can. Big steep waves, spray soaking the driver despite a big dodger (came right over the top) and bottom-cleaning slam downs. The boat did great. So did the crew in very challenging conditions. Phew, day 1 done.

This one’s for PaulM – he wanted action video :)