Who needs a transmission when you've got sails

Sitting to leeward of Yahtzee's helm, I could see the dark gust coming from way across the bay. Counting down until it hit, I turned up slightly, let the boat heel hard, and then watched the starboard rail bury deep into…

Finding our sea legs on an epic weekend cruise

Hand over hand, I pulled the mainsail up like a mad sailor who could hardly wait to shut the engine off. I couldn't. Outside the breakwater in Resurrection Bay, a 15 to 20 knot northerly whipped through the rigging and when…

Spring boating on the horizon in Alaska

With Yahtzee's companionway hatch slid fully open, sun poured down below, filling the cabin with light and warmth. I stood there in it for just a moment, soaking up the beautiful rays of spring and dreaming of the future.…

Cruising friends rejuvenate the sailing soul

It's the second-to-last day of February and I find myself sitting behind the computer thinking, "Wow, what an awesome month it has been." The boys play on the beach at Tonsina Point. Winter in rural Alaska continues to…

Springtime Sailing in Alaska

From the January 2003 issue of 48° North by Rick Fleischman Alaska in March and April may not sound like too much fun but with the right equipment you can have a great spring sail!  Last year we left Sitka in late March…