28
Issue #146 April 2015 Mariner A Publication For Where Land Ends www.marinermagazine.com A Magazine For The Marina del Rey Boating Community The Marina del Rey Celebrates 50 Years! The Importance of Racing for Yacht Clubs Pics From Opening Day Much More...

The Mariner 146

Embed Size (px)

DESCRIPTION

Marina del Rey's boating magazine

Citation preview

Page 1: The Mariner 146

Issue #146April 2015

M a r i n e rA P u b l i c a t i o n F o r W h e r e L a n d E n d sw w w. m a r i n e r m a g a z i n e . c o m

A M a g a z i n e F o r T h e M a r i n a d e l R e y B o a t i n g C o m m u n i t y

The

Marina del ReyCelebrates 50 Years!The Importance of Racing for Yacht Clubs

Pics From Opening Day

Much More...

Page 2: The Mariner 146

2 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

So, Marina del Rey is turning 50. It sounds old in human years but the town, of course, will outlive us al—probably our grandkids too. This impending refit perhaps is akin to her growing out of diapers or learning to speak her first words. Maybe that’s why there’s so much attention and skepticism in the political arena—everyone wants her to have the right values and a solid foundation as she begins to become a real place or a grown up as it were.

I’m forever amazed that there are still quite a few people here in this area that watched a little watering hole they called Mud Lake, where local kids would water ski and sunbathe, eventually form into the largest man made harbor in the world.

A fellow historical society member, Christine Rohde, who is more and more involved in all things Marina del Rey, sent me over a fascinating Sports Illustrated article on MdR from 1972. It was the swimsuit edition (featuring Cheryl Tiegs by the way!) and it included a long form article on this new place called Marina del Rey.

The SI writer described the new “urban Eden” as a rental community where swinging singles, wealthy businessmen turned yachtsmen and anyone else

who enjoyed what the writer called “the Marina’s freewheelin’ lifestyle”.

The story included a then active Burton Chace, who some refer to as the Father of Marina del Rey, who proudly said, “It’s the greatest money-maker the county has.” And later espoused that it was also “the greatest cooperation of government and private enterprise anybody has ever seen.”

The story focused around the idea that this unique little place, in a watery little pocket of Los Angeles, was new and finding its identity. There was mention of political issues, many of which are still being discussed today, and the organizations that were battling government moves. It was a compelling snapshot. It reminded me that this place is so young and still, all these years later, finding its personality.

So I say, in “town years” the Marina is still in the stage of the occasional bed-wetting and probably wears corduroy elastic pants. That’s right, I’m saying your town is a bed-wetting, elastic pants wearing child that probably can’t even read… Happy birthday kid!

The Mariner isEditor/Publisher

Pat Reynolds

ColumnistsRichard Schaefer

Dave Kirby

WriterTim Tunks

For advertising rates and Information contact

310-397-1887 email

[email protected]

Mailing address P.O. Box 9403

Marina del Rey, CA 90295

The Mariner appears on the last Friday of every month.

This issue March 27 - April 24

Important Numbers at a glance:

n �Marina del Rey Sheriff: 310-482-6000

n Los Angeles County Lifeguard: 310-577-5700

n Vessel Assist: 800-399-1921

n �Marine Life Rescue 800-39WHALE

From the editor

WhAt’S iNSide

The Town is a Kid

Coming Events 4

Off the Wire 6

Race to Avoid Extinction 10Tim Tunks Talks Aboutthe Importance of Club Racing

The Big Bash 12Marina del Rey’s 50th Birthday Party

Local Currents 17Captain Richard Schaefer—Catalina Hazards

On the RecordFisherman’s Village Proposed Revamp 18

According to DaveMonthly Fishing Report by Captain Dave Kirby 19

Racing - Cal Race Week Discounts 20

Classifieds 25

Thanks for picking it up!

Ashley Stauffer by Pat Reynolds

Photo by Pat Reynolds

Page 3: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 3

40 Carver 1999 aft cabin , diesels. loaded, $149,900

46’ Wellcraft 1994 Cockpit motor yacht, twin dsls air cond, full tronics $110,000

38 Sea Ray Sundancer 2002 under 300 hours. Great family boat! $119,000

32’ Luhrs 1974 sedan new lt finish low hours show as a 10 $18,950

37’ Fisher Pilothouse 1975 bluewater ketch upgraded 1991 new engine $89,000 TRADE

65’ McKinna 2002 pilot house, Exceptional 800 hp Cat 3406’s, stabilizers, bow thruster, satellite TV, computerized entertainment center, dual helms 3 cabins, low hours $699,000

65’ Harkers island Guthrie 1970, 4 staterooms, ready for Cabo or Alaska. For private or commercial fishing - consider trade for Cars, Real estate, Gems $120,000

52 Californian 1990 cockpit MY Cat diesels, stabilized, spacious interior $159,00048 Californian 1987 Cockpit My, Cat Diesels double cabin $159,000

42’ Uniflite 1984 aft cabin GM V-8 Diesels loaded and clean , RIB Inflatable on davit new canvas enclosures $87,500

46’ Moody 1985 Bluewater Cruising Cutter, 3 cabins equipped to go now! $159,000

42’ Hunter center cockpit aft cabin, very spacious interior large aft cabin have 2 available 2000 asking $119,000 and 2002 asking $139,000

60’ Sunseeker Renegade 1993 rebuilt Detroit diesels. Family friendly - 3 cabs, salon, dinette, galley. Fast cruising up to 40-knots! Amazing deal for a Sunseeker. $179,000

47’ Lien Hwa Mtr Yacht 1995, loaded Great family fun or live abrd, motivated $149,500

45 Sea ray Sundancer 1997 twin diesels consider trade in power / sail $149,000

33’ Sea Ray 1995 low hours, A/C, $49,00035’ Sea Ray 1991 low hours, A/C, $34,900

30’ Maxum 1997 very clean, twin Mercruisers, Full elec, 2 cabins $30,000

43 Endeavor 1981 cruising ketch top shape. Ready for island and beyond $114,000

35 Pacific Seacraft Catamaran 1993 twin Yanmar diesels $129,000

28’ Owens custom sportfisher, over $150k refit and repower diesels $46,000

We Thank All the MdR Buyers and Sellers From the Last 40 Years

Happy Birthday Marina del Rey!-Gerry Purcell-

Since 1974

Page 4: The Mariner 146

4 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

March 28 & 29Del Rey Yacht Club Open

HouseYou’re invited to enjoy a rare opportunity to experience this award-winning yacht club. Guided tours of our multi-level Clubhouse, Lounges, Library, Grand 2nd story Dining Room with spectacular 180° Marina views, Club grounds - including heated pool, game deck, snack bar & more. Social and boating memberships for all ages. Jr. Sailing Program with a full-time coach. Catalina Facility with seating up to 250 people, gas BBQ’s, fresh water hot showers, heads, full galley & available moorings. Starts at 11am-5pm (Sat & Sun). Free parking. 13900 Palawan Way, MdR, (310) 823-4664; [email protected]; www.dryc.org. Looking forward to seeing you there!

March 28Del Rey Yacht Club Fishing 101 Class

Join us Saturday for this free intro to fishing class co-hosted by West Marine. Learn pole basics, fish & rigs, fishing locations and more. Limited space and reservations required. Starts 1:30pm. To sign-up, call (310) 823-4664 or email us at [email protected]. 13900 Palawan Way, MdR; www.dryc.org.

April 4Community Easter Egg Hunt at

Catalina IslandBeginning at 9am sharp - arrive early, event is over quick! Location TBD. Bring your camera for pictures with the Easter Bunny! City of Avalon Recreation Department. 310-510-0220 ext. 231,www.CityofAvalon.com

April 5Easter Sunday at Two Harbors

Hop on over to Two Harbors for our annual Easter egg hunt, and have your little ones search for the elusive “Golden Egg.” Sponsored by Corsair Yacht Club. For more information contact Two Harbors Events at 310-510-4249, [email protected] or visit our website at www.visittwoharbors.com

April 7Kids Outrigger Canoe Program

Marina del Rey Outrigger Canoe Club’s Keiki Program for kids ages 8-13 begins April 7. The annual summer program offers kids a

chance to compete and to learn about an ocean sport through history, culture, and teamwork. Practices are Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m., and Saturdays, noon-2 p.m. For more information contact Margot Page, (310) 821-5169, or email [email protected].

April 10 & 11Shipwreck Weekend

Celebrate spring break island style at our 3rd annual Shipwreck Weekend, complete with live entertainment, and shipwreck themed events. For more information or questions, contact Two Harbors Events at 310-510-4249, [email protected] or visit our website at www.visittwoharbors.com

April 10Tim Talks

Racing to Avoid ExtinctionIn 1975 Tim Tunks, past Sportsman and Yachtsman of the Year, He will share his interesting and amusing personal history at the MVYC members meeting 6:30 p.m. Friday April 10 with questions to follow. Non-MVYC members wishing to join us for a 3 course dinner after Tim’s Talk should RSVP to (310) 822-9082. Menu to be announced but guaranteed to be meet or exceed expectations for standard $10.00 yacht club food. Guest parking directions will be given at the Marina City Club entrance gate 4333 Admiralty Way.

April 12Annual Rubber Ducky Derby on the

IslandAnnual fundraising event to support the local children’s theatre company “Kids At Play”. The derby begins at noon on South Beach. Adoption

of ducks: Solo Ducks for 5 bucks; 5 Quackers for 20 smackers; 30 Racing Thrills for two 50 dollar bills. Corporate sponsorships are $100 (extra large duck). Info at 310-510-0288 or www.kidsatplayavalon.com

April 16Marina del Rey Farmers’

MarketStarting at 9:00 a.m. Stack up on fresh produce and artisan favorites at the Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market. Locally grown, organic fruits and veggies, pre-packaged meals, delicious desserts, and hand-crafted jewelry, clothing, arts & crafts. Marina Beach parking lot every

Thursday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Info 310-305-9545April 18 & 19

The 40th Anniversary Marina Del Rey Halibut Derby

The Halibut Derby is back in action. Grab a fishing buddy and throw your hat in the ring to win big prizes! For more information please contact the Halibut Derby Chairman John Szymura at johns@mdranglers or 424-229-1890 or at HalibutDerby.com.

April 23Spring Fest at Avalon

Live music, food, games, and much more! Join the Avalon community from 5-9pm along Crescent Avenue (Front Street) as they kick off the “busy season”, and have fun doing it! Fun for the whole family. City of Avalon Recreation Department. 310-510-0220 ext. 231, www.CityofAvalon.com

April 30CYC Yachting Luncheon

“Balancing Solitude, Sanity and Safety in Single Handed Voyaging

to Hawaii” Presented by Christian Williams recounting his odyssey of sailing solo from California Yacht Club to Hawaii and return, a journey of 6,000 miles and 48 days at sea. As a veteran ”blue-water” sailor, he has some 20,000 miles offshore including: six multihull Bermuda races, the Southern Ocean Racing Circuit, and the 1979 Fastnet Race aboard Ted Turner’s Tenacious. This cruise to Hawaii was his first long singlehanded experience – and on the 10th day outbound he celebrated his 71st birthday.

C o m i n g E v e n t s !Marina del Rey Birthday Bash/L.A.’s MarinaFest Boat Show

Friday, April 10 - Sunday, April 12 - 5:00 pm

Marina del Rey is turning 50 this year and we want you to celebrate with us! Join us for three days of special festivities and events.

The festivities kick-off with a free, evening concert by Three Dog Night in Burton Chace Park, followed by a fireworks show. A formal ceremony and community birthday cake will complete the celebration. Don’t miss the birthday bash of the year!

Saturday, & Sunday, L.A.’s MarinaFest Boat Show will feature a variety of activities including *Tall Ships, a baot show, free boat rides, marine-related exhibits, water-taxi cruises, yacht club tours, L.A. County’s Fire Boat, community vendors, information displays, food, and beverages. There will also be inflatables, rides, and games for young children. More info - 310-305-9545

Page 5: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 5

Happy Half Hour – Noon. Bountiful Buffet Luncheon - 12:20 p.m. Presentation 12:40 p.m. $18.50 includes Luncheon, tax, service and parking. Open to all who enjoy yachting and adventure, as a public service of CYC. Open to all who enjoy yachting and adventure, as a public service of CYC. California Yacht Club, 4469 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 310.823.4567 [email protected]

OngoingPaddle in the Moonlight

Every Wednesday and Friday evening come join the crew of Pro SUP for a fun night of paddling, there’s no better way to end the day than with a paddle cruise! Sunset Moonlit Marina Paddle Cruise is a 75 minute paddle cruise around the Marina. Evening is one of the most peaceful times to go for a paddle through the marina, this experience is absolutely breathtaking! We depart from Mother’s Beach. For more info call 310-945-8350

Marina del Rey Outrigger Canoe Club

Come try this exciting team water sport at Mothers’ Beach, Palawan Way (south of Admiralty), Marina del Rey. Newcomers are welcome; women practice Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays at 8 a.m. Men practice Tuesdays and Thursday, 5:30 p.m.; and Sundays, 7:30 a.m. For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.marinaoutrigger.org.

Tropical RockEvery Wednesday 6-9pm at The Warehouse Restaurant Unkle Monkey duo performs island music and pop/rock on guitar, ukulele, congas, and steel drum. Voted one of the ‘Top 3 Bands on the Westside’ by The Argonaut two years in a row. They are a “boater friendly band” and will take all your Jimmy Buffett requests! Happy Hour 4-7 4499 Admiralty Way Marina Del Rey

Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club

We invite members, guests, and prospective members to join us for cocktails, food, live music, dancing and fun on Sunday afternoons from 4:00 to 7:00 (food served at 5:00). No reservations needed. This is a great way to end your day on the water, or just to wind down from the weekend. Live jazz or classic rock bands are here for entertainment. We are located at 13589 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292,(310) 827-7692. Please visit our website at www.smwyc.org for activities, membership details, racing, events, directions, and more.

Marina Venice Yacht Club

Social SundaysJoin Marina Venice Yacht Club weekly for our Social Sunday Open House from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Food items are provided at a moderate price. MVYC is located in the Marina City Club West tower at 4333 Admiralty Way. Whether you own a boat, are looking to buy one, or just want to be around other water loving people MVYC welcomes all who share in the Corinthian Spirit. Follow the signs up the stairs or elevator to the Club House on G2. Social Sunday Dinner is currently $7 for Boat + Sail Club Members - (guests $10). Includes free entertainment and bargain priced full bar. Reservations very helpful. For more information call 863-701-4076, visit mvyc.org, or contact [email protected]. Women’s Sailing Association of

Santa Monica BayMeets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club, 13589 Mindanao Way, in Marina del Rey. The meeting, held at 7:30, is preceded by a social hour, and a light dinner is served. Each meeting features a guest speaker discussing their adventures and achievements. WSA invites boaters of all skill levels to join. Its programs, include day sails, seminars, parties, and cruises including destinations such as King Harbor, Catalina and the northern Channel Islands, For membership information contact email membership@ wsasmb.org or on the web at www.wsasmb.org.

Marina Sunday Sailing Club Since 1981 MSSC has brought together skippers and crew in a friendly social environment for daysails in Santa Monica Bay and cruises to Catalina and other destinations. We meet onthe2ndand4thSundayofeachmonthon the patio at Burton Chace park under the Club banner. Meetings start at 10:00 a.m. We hold a brief business meeting and then head out for an afternoon of sailing on the Bay after which we gather at a member’s dock for wine, snacks and more socializing. Visitors are welcome and a one day guest membership of only $5 entitles you to brunch and a day of sailing, if space is available. No prior sailing experience is necessary. For more info call (310) 226-8000 or see website at www.marinasundaysailors.org

Catalinas of Santa Monica BayOwners of Catalina Yachts

Join us for our monthly meetings at the Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. We would like to welcome Catalina owners to join our club. We have speakers, cruises to Catalina, races and other events throughout the year. Our doors open at 6:00 for happy hour and then

VIKING DIVE

SERVICE

Underwater Maintenance

Corrosion Control

A Commitment Towards Excellence

Est. 1985

Craig Cantwell

310-827-1473

dinner around 7 to 7:30 and our main event after that. Join the fun and meet other owners of Catalinas. For more info email Jeanne Cronin at [email protected] Mariners of Marina del Rey

Attention sailors and singles. Single Mariners of Marina del Rey invites you for a dinner and a sail. Join us twice a month for a meet and greet social hour followed by dinner and a meeting. The goal of the club is to meet new people that have an interest in sailing. We are a FUN social club built around weekend sailing on the bay. We match skippers with crew for a fun day of boating. If you are a skipper and would like to host our members or have an interest in teaching sailing then this is the club for you. We meet on the first and third Thursday of each month with a day-sail the following weekend. The meetings are held inside Pacific Mariners Yacht Club. There is a $7.00 charge that covers a light meal. PMYC is located at 13915 Panay Way, Marina Del Rey. For additional information contact Single Mariners Commodore, Alan Rock at [email protected], 310-721-2825. Looking forward to meeting you in the near future.

To list a coming event, email [email protected]

Page 6: The Mariner 146

6 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

o F F t h e W i r eLobster Season ends

Questions BeginSlip Slidin’ Away

International Marine Consultant

818-787-7082

Woodworking Wizardry

Custom Woodwork at its BestBill Borneman 310-977-0050

Advertise in T h e M a r i n e r

310-397-1887Effective & Affordable

The guest docks over at Burton Chace Park often have some sort of interesting sight to take in. This day is was Captain Dave Kirby and a band of other Captains from around California Yacht Club all working to inflate, install and eventually use this custom made water slide. It stands three-stories high and is most likely the only of these toy for miles around.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) reminds 2014-2015 Spiny Lobster Report Card holders that March 18 is the last day of the lobster fishing season and to return their report cards by April 30, 2015 as required by law.

Cardholders should review their cards carefully and check that the information recorded is complete and accurate. Information collected from the cards provides CDFW with data necessary to monitor and manage California’s spiny lobster fishery. The cards need to be returned even if no lobsters were taken.

The purpose of the reporting requirement is to monitor recreational spiny lobster catch, fishing effort and the gear used in the recreational fishery. Although CDFW has considerable information about the commercial lobster fishery from landing receipts and logbooks, CDFW has very little reliable information on the magnitude of the recreational lobster catch and fishing effort.

Photo by Pat Reynolds

Page 7: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 7

The Derby is back to a full two day event with big prizes. The many hard working Marina del Rey Anglers members proudly present the 40th Annual Marina del Rey Halibut Derby taking place on April 18 - 19, 2015 at Burton Chace Park in Marina del Rey.

The charity fishing event is what starts off the fishing season for many of the local fishermen. Now open to more than just halibut and back to the good old two day format. With big prizes like a first place prize of a trip to fish Alaska the fishermen and fisherwomen take the event seriously but still have a lot of fun. Many look forward to the awards party with its super raffle full of fishing gear. But at the start they all set out to win the top prizes.

Teams compete for a cash jackpot and entrants compete side jackpots as well.

The Marina del Rey Halibut Derby is L.A.’s largest and longest standing fishing tournament. Individual anglers and teams will compete in a multi-species fishing competition with a conservation bonus. Proceeds from the event help fund the Marina del Rey Anglers Youth Fishing and White Sea Bass Grow Out programs.

For more information please contact the Halibut Derby Chairman John Szymura at johns@mdranglers or 424-229-1890 or at HalibutDerby.com.

o F F t h e W i r e

halibut derby Celebrates 40

SOLD

1st Place - 3 Days + 4 Nights + Airfare to Sitka Point Lodge, Alaska

2nd Place - 5 Days + 4 Nights + Airfare to La Paz with Tailhunter International Sportfishing

3rd Place - 2.5 Day Tuna Trip Aboard the Eclipse on August 13 - 16 2015.

4th Place - 1 Day Guided Coastal Trip with Pro Angler Benny Florentino

Photo courtesy of san elijo lagoon conservancy

Halibut Derby Prizes

COMMODORE YACHTS

Phone 310.821.6817 Toll Free 877.369.3582 www.commodoreyachts .net

Let Us Sell Your Boat!

30’ Wellcraft Express Cruiser 19K 70’ Hawthorne REDUCED $225K

Chris Craft Constellation $149K

41 ‘ Chris Craft MY, diesels, total refi t. Fiberglass. $79,000

31’ Tiara Slick Craft - lots of goodies! $29,900

35’ Hunter - spacious layout! $32,000

Mechanic Available • Repairs • Upgrades • Maintenance

Page 8: The Mariner 146

8 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

o F F t h e W i r e

• LP Painting - Sprayed or Brushed

• Fiberglass & Gel Coat Repair

• Custom Fabrication & Modifications

•Teak Deck Restorations & Replacement

• Complete Cosmetic Maintenance

2814 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Mdr • www.spectrummarine.net

Rick Baker - 310-306-1825 - Since 1982

Sp

ec

trum

Ma

rine

C u s t o m R e f i n i s h i n g

What’s the deal on the 24-hour Fishing Permit? Sea Lion Pup Population Still Struggling

More emaciated and dying sea lion pups are turning up on beaches all over the local area. Since January over 1,700 have needed rescuing, which is more than what typically happens in a calendar year. The speculation is unusually warm waters are forcing sea lion mothers to venture farther for food thus leaving the pups starving as they hunt. If too much time elapses, many of the juveniles take to the ocean ill-equipped, in an effort to survive.

“These animals are coming in really desperate. They’re at the end of life. They’re in a crisis .and not all animals are going to make it,” said Keith A. Matassa to the Associated Press. Matassa is the executive director at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, which has taken in 285 pups this winter compared with 28 during the same period last year.

Pups that should be gaining 20 to 40 pounds in a two-month period have put on just 2 pounds, Matassa said.

Question: I have a multi-day fishing permit to use on my personal boat. What is considered a 24-hour day for meeting my daily bag/catch limit?

For example, if I am lobster fishing and I catch my limit of seven lobsters before 12:00 am, does a multi-day permit qualify me and everybody onboard my boat at 12:01 am to continue fishing through the night to catch our next day’s limit of lobsters?

If not, is a day of lobster fishing considered one complete night so that the next limit of seven lobsters can only be taken the following night? Also, do the same rules apply for fishing, and are all daily bag limits on a 24 hour rotation ending at 12:00 am? If not, then when do they end?

Answer: A Declaration for Multi-Day Fishing Trip permit requires that the trip is continuous and extends for a period of 12 hours or more on the first and last days of the trip. If you were fishing or diving for lobster for 12 hours or more before midnight (12:00 a.m.) on the first day of your trip, then you would be able to take

your second day’s limit after midnight, as long as your trip extended for at least 12 hours on the second day as well. The multi-day fishing permit is intended to allow persons fishing offshore, on a trip that lasts multiple days, to catch and keep up to three daily limits of finfish, lobster and rock scallops (in Southern California). In addition, no berthing or docking is permitted within five miles of the mainland shore (California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 27.15).

?

MARINE INSURANCEPrivate/Charter/CommerCial

hull values 60K & uP

Jim Dalby310-702-6543

Lic. # obo5231

OverseaInsurance Agencywww.overseainsurance.com

Get the newly released book on

the history of Marina del Rey!

Available at the Historical Society’s Gallery at Fisherman’s Village, at local bookstores, or online at

www.marinadelreyhistoricalsociaty.org

Page 9: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 9

o F F t h e W i r e

Repair, Refurbish, ReplaceCall For An Estimate!

Marine Canvas Fabricator

Rick Balabuck310-386-7293

Good Vibrations CanvasReliable & Punctual!

www.goodvibrationscanvas.com

Playing Poker, Paddleboarding and Cleaning up trash - All at the Same time

Varnishing Polishing Wax Carpet Steam Cleaning

Weekly or Monthly Washdowns Email - [email protected]

310-466-8267

H E A D S / P L U M B I N G

w w w . i n t r e p i d m a r i n e . c o m310-827-7686

Installs & Repairs

Holding Tanks

Floating poker players from all over the marina climbed aboard paddleboards, kayaks or “anything that fl oats” (as the invite read) and went from stop to stop drawing cards hoping for the winning hand in the “Poker Paddle”.

Local businesses like Pro SUP, Phins Water Club, Killer Shrimp and Action Watersports all got in on the action, providing support for the players in one way or the other.

The event, created by the Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club, revolved around a clean up effort and a prize was given to participants who plucked the most trash from the waters along the way. Nearly 50 paddler/players were involved in the event.

Photos by Kent Andersson.

Right; SUPs ready for action at the dock of Santa Monica Windjammers YCUpper; A group of paddle poker players from Pacifi c Mariners Yacht Club all smiles.Bottom; A paddler sits atop a bucket to be used for trash cleanup.

Page 10: The Mariner 146

10 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

I’ve been deeply involved in local club-level yacht racing for forty years, and I fear my species is facing extinction.

With declining racer participation, why should yacht club resources be expended for such archaic activities as junior racing programs and messing up the clubhouse with a bunch of rowdy after-race sailors? Why bother with all this expensive irrelevant nonsense of publicizing a racing program, furnishing lots of volunteers, buying trophies and buoys and anchors and everything else it takes to run races? And how can yacht clubs recruit the knowledgeable and dedicated sailors into race management that an intelligent racing program requires?

Yacht clubs are like wrecks and reefs that are the vital spawning grounds and nurseries for a sealife that sustains us. Even if you don’t eat them, you do understand the food chain and what life would be like without fish in the seas. A yacht club without racing is like a sea without fish. Yacht racing is the unique reproductive activity that spawned yacht clubs.

I tell beginners that racing focuses your

mental and physical effort toward perfection. Your objective is to extract nature’s energy to propel your boat toward the finish line, and do it better than your competition. Without some experience in racing you will miss out on the huge rewards of total concentration and unrelenting focus. It is said, if you aren’t racing, you are just sailing around.

I started racing during the explosion of fiberglass boat production that filled the newest and largest pleasure boat marina in the world—Marina del Rey. Boats large enough to accommodate a small family on a weekend cruise to Catalina were mostly sailboats and sailing became a vital family activity. Older yacht clubs expanded and new ones organized themselves. Long wait lists existed for both yacht club membership and boat slip rental. With sailboat, slip, and the yacht club membership that was required for race entry, a family had valuable treasures. Boating became their main summertime activity, and racing their social center.

Youth sailing programs at the various yacht clubs were popular summer baby-sitting options that kept kids active. Through their

frequent competitions with competing clubs, racing kids developed an interesting sub-society with all the other yacht club kids. Yacht clubs would organize group cruises to various destinations, for both sailors and power-boaters, where kids and parents would socialize.

These same clubs hosted sailboat races that involved all their members. All the racers raced—sometimes with the kids onboard as crew, sometimes with them involved in their own small boat races, and other times with the parents turning over the family racer/cruiser for the kids to race or cruise on their own.

Various power-boaters found useful roles furnishing and managing their large boat for race committee duties while members with smaller fishing skiffs would participate as mark-set and/or photo boats. Power-boaters in the racing scene performed valuable race related chores that required their nautical skills and many went on to study and learn the intricacies of yacht racing - eventually passing national tests to become certified race officers.

Shore-side teams prepared great lunches for

By Tim Tunks

The Health of Club Racing and the Survival of Yacht Clubs are Uniquely Connected

Race to Avoid Extinction

Photo by Pat Reynolds

Page 11: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 11

PAC I F I C M A R I N E R S YAC H T C L U BThe best kept secret in Marina del Rey!

Like us on

www.pmyc.orgThe best kept secret in Marina del Rey!

Cruising • Racing • Fishing • Amazing View • World Wide Reciprocity • 100’ Guest Dock • Banquet Room • Big Screen Tv • Pool Table • 24/7/365 Access • Free Wi-Fi • Professional

Galley • Large Outdoor Deck • True Do-It-Yourself Club - Amazingly Affordable

13915 Panay Way MDR CA 90292310-823-9717

[email protected]

MembershipsAvailable!

the on-the-water race committee and fantastic spreads of munchies for all to enjoy at the trophy presentation gatherings after the race. Crews from different clubs socialized and made friends. Sailors and skippers would sail on different boats, picking up different skills and management styles from one another.

Yacht club gatherings back then reminded me of some of the wonders I found in my freshman year at the university dorm. A place where you could run into people who were interested in all different aspects of life and have long enlightening conversations over coffee (or other beverages) that could carry on late into the night.

At the yacht club the discussion might be about what constitutes “ample room and opportunity” to escape certain aggressive moves at the start and then sometimes it would be about how many generators we’d have to rent to run the lights for the Christmas parade boat. The gems we’d fi nd were the friendships we built.

Things are different now.

Like other ecological habitats that lose important links in their survival chain, the whole Santa Monica Bay sailboat racing community continues to shrink. Along with racer’s disappearance we see a valuable social glue lose its adhesion as members from all the yacht clubs now rarely socialize with one another.

Junior programs suffer because learning to sail well requires much more time and focused effort than most youngsters’ schedules permit. How many kids today have 25 - 40 hours a week during the summer to devote to any one thing let alone an activity that requires intensive scheduling and considerable support resources? Then look at the many other fl ashy and less expensive activities that compete so successfully for a typical youth’s personal recreation time.

Without sailing kids growing up and raising their own sailing kids, sailboat racing becomes something like the giant pandas in the zoo that only propagate with artifi cial insemination. Yacht racing skills and patience takes time and experience to develop (like other endeavors that require strong character and a clear moral compass). Without kids becoming replacement sailors and skippers, club level yacht racing risks spiraling into extinction—unless other means can be found.

The Introduction to Sailboat Racing program run by the dedicated bunch from little South Bay

Yacht Racing Club could be considered such an artifi cial reproduction program. Just recently, a few generous local skippers brought their race boats to DRYC, and many other volunteers gave their time in this daylong effort to clone some new crew for this season’s races. Lack of crew is frequently cited as the biggest reason some skippers don’t race more, and here is an effort focused directly on that problem.

Like evangelists fi shing for souls, SBYRC went on social media and cast their lure into the pool of MeetUp.com and other online oceans unfamiliar to me. A fresh batch of newbies came and drank deeply from the chalice of yachtsman fellowship and knowledge, and left with their clearly charted paths into ASMBYC racing.

However, like a drop in the ocean, SBYRC’s effort alone will have diffi culty being signifi cant without others helping to cast the net and groom the catch. Others must fi nd a way to recruit and retain experienced racers to guide their yacht club’s programs, for without a racer’s understanding, it is easy for an inexperienced leadership to send things awry. And most of all, yacht club members must understand the connection of how racing is essential to their club’s continued existence.

In my opinion, all members should participate

directly in some aspects of racing activity. Whether it be helping to load the fi nish time into the handicapping computer, writing press releases to promote the racing schedule, making sandwiches for the on-the-water race committee or manning the barbecue for the after race socializing, members should all join in whenever possible.

If club level racing does not fi nd the habitat it needs, like the lowland gorilla and the I.O.R. foredeck hand, yacht clubs will soon fi nd themselves facing extinction.

Tim Tunks is a respected racer, author, and local historian who’s book The Best Gift Ever documents the lessons (both life and boating) Tim has learned

though his extensive cruising experiences. Tunks was the recipient of the Yachtsman of the Year 2012 and Sportsman of the Year 2003 from the Association of Santa Monica Bay Yacht Clubs.

Also a sought after Public Speaker, Tim will be speaking at the Marina Venice Yacht Club in Marina del Rey on April 10th. See Coming Events on Page 4 for details.

Page 12: The Mariner 146

12 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

n the weekend of April 10, Marina del Rey will be a hot spot. This is the chosen weekend Los Angeles County, the Marina del Rey Historical Society, local organizations and many other volunteers will put on a celebration for the 50th birthday of this famous harbor.

On Friday, four tall ships will arrive in the main channel and provide the stately dignity that a 50th birthday demands. At 5 p.m a formal birthday ceremony will be held, followed, at 7 p.m., by a live Three Dog Night concert. The classic rock band had a string of huge hits in the 70s. After the show, fireworks will light the sky at which time the marina might actually get a little embarrassed by all the attention.

But it’s not over yet. Marinafest will be taking the baton for the weekend and this slowly, but steadily growing annual event is now hitting its stride in its eighth year. Marinafest has gone from a very humble grass roots event in a parking lot to a legitimate in-water boat show that features tons of attractions and activities. Piggy backing on what the birthday ceremony has brought to the table, this year the event will feature tall ships conducting mock battles in Marina del Rey’s main channel, narrated harbor tours, the “latest and greatest” sail and power vessels, dozens of land booths, food trucks, family and kid-friendly attractions, and apparently a rare appearance by a live mermaid. There will also be a classic car exhibition on Sunday. And the good news is it’s all free.

For many boaters, besides the in-water boat show, it’s these visiting tall ships that are of particular interest. There will be four ships that represent a time in history when shipping was at the hub of nearly everything. From national security, importing/exporting and passenger travel—tall ships were at the heart of what made civilization tick. On hand will be Amazing Grace out of San Diego, the Bill of Rights, which now hails from Chula

Vista, and the Irving Johnson and Exy Johnson from Long Beach.

The pair of boats out of LB, the “Johnson’s” if you will, are brigantines built not as strict replicas but more as educational vessels rooted in a place in history. Named after Irving McClure Johnson and his wife, Electa (Exy),who were pioneers of sail training in the 1930s through the 50s, these boats have many modern elements like adequate headroom and a shower with hot water in each compartment. According to the Los Angeles Maritime Institute, they were purpose-built as experiential-education and sail training vessels. They have contemporary amenities, from microwave ovens to GPS, watermakers and radar. The only historical elements are the brigantine rig, which dates to around the 1850s, and of course the hundreds of years-old techniques used to build and maintain them.

Coming from farther south will be Amazing Grace and the Bill of Rights. Amazing Grace is an 83’ topsail schooner— a replica of the type of ship that was used extensively in the new England area back in the 1800s. In their day, schooners like Amazing Grace were chosen for their speed and up-wind abilities. It’s documented that these types of ships were popular amongst pirates for these same reasons.

Bill of Rights is another wonderfully built schooner. Some may have seen this tallship in Marina del Rey before. When it was operated out of Ventura it would appear now and then and The Mariner did a feature story on her. It’s a substantially sized ship, a 136’ gaff-rigged beauty that, according to the owners, was fashioned from the drawings of the schooner Wanderer, an 1856 vessel built to carry cargo from New Orleans to New York.

Like most tall ships today, including al listed here, the Bill of Rights is invested in youth education and character building.

O

The Big Bash!Tall Ships , Rock Bands & Good Fun Slated for Marina del Rey’s 50th Bir thday Bash

Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Maritime Institute Photo courtesy of South Bayfront Sailing Associaiton

Page 13: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 13

Photo Taylor Abee

Page 14: The Mariner 146

14 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

Dedicated to Excellence

w World Famous Sails

w 1 Day Repair Service

w Sail Handling Systems

w Pick Up / Delivery

w Used Sails

Visituksailmakers.com

Monday - Friday 9-5

1731 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Marina del Rey

310-822-1203

Pacifi c Fire & Marine

Marine Fire Suppression Specialists

562-484-1045

Annual fi re system inspection & certifi cationFire extinguisher recharge & salesEngine room system install & repair

Complete dockside service

SEVEN SEAS ELECTRONICS, INCServing the Boating Industry Since 1978

TroubleshootingRewiring,Panels

AC/DC AccessoriesInverters, Batteries

Tel: 310.827.SEAS Tel: 310.574.3444n

Specializing in Custom Installation of Navigation Equipment

“I t ’s About the Boat!”

310-305-919213900 Marquesas Way - Suite 6001 Marina del Rey

w w w . t h e y a c h t e x c h a n g e . n e t

Great Results for Your Listing!Let us know when you are ready to discuss the value of your boat

Page 15: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 15

❂Wash Downs❂Underwater ❂Diving Service❂Varnishing❂Electrical Specialists❂Sailboat Rigging❂Heads-Plumbing❂Bottom Painting❂Custom Cushions❂Covers

310-827-7686

We accept VISA, American Express, Mastercard & Discover

Serving MdR Since 1978

Intrepid Marine Yacht Service

www.intrepidmarine.com

Phone 310-650-4455 - [email protected] Years Experience

w w w . E x c e l s i o r Ya c h t G r o u p . c o m

The Excelsior Yacht GroupMarine Surveying & Project Management

CAPT CHRIS SHEARMAN - RYA/MCAS.A.M.S© Accredited Marine Surveyor

Pre-Purchase SurveysInsurance & Marina Surveys

OUTBOARD MADNESS!

2-20 HP - $95.0025-50 HP - $125.00

60-140 HP - $150.00150-300 HP - $200.00

Spark plugs, oil � lter & shop supplies included

310-823-110512792 W. Washington B;vd1 block east of [email protected]

Pick up and trailers available for a small fee

Extended through the month of April!

Must Call for an appointment30 years in

Marina del Rey!

YACHT SERVICES

CaptainJeffry Matzdorff

Over 145,000 Blue-water miles experience

323-855-0191

• Deliveries• Instruction• Professional Services

U.S.C.G Licensed 100 Ton Master

Sail / Power

www.offshoredeliveryskipper.com

Page 16: The Mariner 146

16 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

Yachting Season Officially Opens

Canon blasts were heard all over Marina del Rey on a sunny weekend this past month as all of the major yacht clubs celebrated the Opening Day festivities. Abiding by traditions that began on the east coast, the clubs all hosted visiting guests and dignitaries from other clubs and local organizations to declare the yachting season officially open.

It began on a Saturday morning with sexy Brazilian dancers at the Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club and ended Sunday afternoon with a packed house at the Del Rey Yacht Club. All the clubs presented their particular version of the long held tradition. Color guards, national anthems, speeches, award presentations and even a man in a chicken suit singing songs were witnessed over the course of the weekend.

Top right; A canon sounds at one of the six yacht clubs that celebrated Opening Day.

Inset; South Coast Corinthian Yacht Club Commodore Trevor Bazeley gives an Opening Day speech.

Above; Brazillian dancer Jonia McClenney at the Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club.

Right; John Meyers from Pacific Mariners Yacht Club working and owning the chicken suit. Photos by Pat Reynolds

Page 17: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 17

am often amazed at the number of people I meet who either, a) don’t know there are hazards to navigation at Catalina or, b) assume they are all buoyed, lighted or at

least, on the charts. You would be wrong if you assumed either A or B to be true.

Let’s start our voyage around the island up at the West End and work our way down the lee side of the island, then around the East End—and up the weather side. Finally, we’ll round West End to finish where we began.

Note: I will use the term “unmarked” to designate hazards that are charted but not lighted or buoyed.

As we leave West End, heading roughly east-south east, the island is slipping by to starboard. Just past Starlight Beach a jagged line of rocks juts out more than 200 yards from the island—Johnson’s Rocks. I have seen one sport-fisher holed on these rocks and am told many boats have met their demise on these unmarked, crusty pinnacles. In calm water, at high tide, only one or two my be visible. Give the area a wide berth in such conditions if you don’t know the area well. Some charts and cruising guides show the rocks as “Johnson’s Rocks” others simply as “Foul Area”—in any case stay well clear.

A couple of miles ahead is “Parson’s Landing”— a beautiful spot in south or southeast conditions (uncommon). I was there for a few days in October, in perfect conditions, and found the

anchorage choked with kelp. Remember, kelp means “rocks” on the bottom. Care must taken anchoring and going ashore in a dinghy—there are scattered rocks throughout this anchorage. This “open roadstead” is generally not a place for the beginner to overnight.

As Parson’s slips astern we round Arrow Point. This point provides limited protection in West conditions to the anchorage’s as far east as Lion Head. Always round points leaving plenty of sea room. Rocks and thick kelp out to about 150 feet from shore in this area.

The first small cove we come to is Doctor’s Cove. At one time it was a nice, snug anchorage for 3 or 4 boats. However, there is now a large floating swim-dock dead in the middle. The dock, coupled with two large underwater rocks, now make the cove only suitable for one experienced boater.

Emerald Bay and Johnson’s Landing are coming up to starboard. Be advised, there is an unmarked reef running just to seaward of, and parallel to the outer mooring line. This rocky reef terminates in Indian Rock. Thick kelp in this area as well. Safest entry into Emerald is navigated by leaving Indian Rock 50 yards to starboard.

Between Emerald Bay and Isthmus Cove lies Eagle Reef—marked by a lighted, red nun buoy. Most of this reef is fairly deep—though at one spot it is just a few feet below the surface at

mean low water. When heading east it is best to leave the buoy to starboard, or stay about 100 yards from shore. Don’t close with the nun buoy to port when traveling “down island”.Off the bow, Lion Head thrusts its protecting point toward the northeast and gives Isthmus Cove, and her satellite anchorage’s, a fair amount of protection from the prevailing wind and sea.

A tangle of kelp hangs off the point, and in its midst is an unmarked rock. This rock has broken many a prop and punched quite a few holes in the hulls of unsuspecting boaters. If you try and “cut the corner” coming into Cherry Cove there’s a good chance you’ll become acquainted with it—don’t cut the corner.

The main hazard in Isthmus Cove is Harbor Reef. It lies about 100 yards behind Bird Rock —somewhat in line with the pier. There once was a red nun buoy marking the reef. Most boaters couldn’t figure out which side to pass the buoy on, and so ran aground on the reef. So many boats struck this hazard that the Harbor Department kept a scoreboard on the “old” pier. I also understand that there was an “unofficial” weekly and seasonal lottery involved with picking the “lucky number” of hits. I can remember the number of groundings approaching 20 more than once.

Now there’s a lighted tower and big sign—on busy weekends there are Go-Go dancers on the catwalk to get your attention (just kidding—but

L o C A L C u r r e N t S

Catalina Hazards to Navigation

By Captain Richard Schaefer

Continued on page 22

I

Page 18: The Mariner 146

18 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

ishman’s Village owner Michael Pishae was back in the meeting rooms this month providing an update on what’s in store for what will soon (or not so soon) be the main visitor attraction for Marina del Rey. He and his partners have contracted Studio 111, an architectural firm out of Long Beach (that also created the Waterside Shopping Center in MdR), to create and realize a completely new Fisherman’s Village. Pishae said that the plans are basically done but they wanted to hold off for one more month, to fine tune, before revealing them. He sounded proud and excited at the prospect of updating an area that has been viewed by most as a disappointment in fulfilling the role of popular visitor destination

for Marina del Rey.

Pishae said that in addition to the parasailing and upgraded boat rental outlet that currently exists at the location, there will be more activities and facilities to use and enjoy. There is also a small hotel included in the plan.

“We’re going to have a lot of areas for dinghy docks and transient boats, we are going to have tall ships and also a [passenger] boat that goes to Catalina,” said Pishae.

Alan Pullman from Studio 111 further explained that he and his team look to make the area an “amazing public space” and a “world class promenade along the waterfront.” He said they see a space that will include recreational boating activities, an updated food program, updated restaurants and possibly a market hall. He went on to say they see FV as more than a promenade and mentioned an amphitheater and/or other gathering spaces in the final vision of the property.

“We want this to be a gathering place for the community,” Pullman said.

The Small Craft Harbor Commissioners were enthusiastic and said they look forward to seeing the plans next month. Both parties joked about how slow the process can be – Pishae’s team indicated that they are working to make things happen as soon as possible.

o N t h e r e C o r d

Fisherman’s Village to see major reFit

F

Photo by Pat Reynolds

Page 19: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 19

It’s a wrap for the lobster season, one which I thought was pretty decent, as lobster seasons go.

As for the non-crustacean world - rockfish season is opening up and we’ve been seeing a number of good reds and lingcod filling bags, not to mention the yellowtail bite that has remained on all year. They are a little harder to catch - they are deep so, in my view, yo yo with irons is the way to go, and of course a good fish finder helps.

With the grunion starting to run, it’s a good time also to start targeting halibut. The tournament is coming in the middle of April, so might as well get in the swing.

If the squid come in, look for a white seabass bite to come on.

Over at the Island we’ve been throwing plastics for calicos and picking up a few small yellows.

Until next time...........Tight lines

According to DaveFishing Update by Marina del Rey’s

Master Fisherman

Captain Dave Kirby

Tom BladaCell- 310-420-0619

Shop- 310-320-9022

Custom Yacht Carpentry by

The Master’s Vessel

35 Years of Woodworking Experience

wRepairswRestorations wComplete WoodshopwAll Types of Woodworking

Holding Tank ServicePOPEYE‛S PUMPOUT CO.

e-mail: [email protected]: popeyespumpout.com

Text Email Call

Voicemail: 310-822-8312

Service, Emergency or Next Day 310-467-5008

Page 20: The Mariner 146

20 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

r A C i N g S C e N e

Sail Repairs/CleaningShade SailsCustom Industrial SewingAwnings: Boat/Home

Scrims/BackdropsPrivacy ScreensYour ProjectCanvas

Open M-F 9 - 4:304030 Del Rey Ave. MdR

310-822-9344

MARE CO.Washington Blvd.

MaxellaLinc

oln

Blv

d.

Del

Rey

Ave

MARE CO.

Cal race Week early reg discounts!Photo by Pat Reynolds

Marine Electr ical

310-560-2937stevevayner@gmail .com

Licensed and Insured Marine Electrician

Inverters/Chargers/IsolatersSatellite/Data InstallationsGalvanic Isolation TestingBattery Replacement/Maintenance/RewiringAutopilots/Radar/Transducers/Lighting/Pumps

Eclectic Electric (AC/DC Specialist)

CA License #(C10) 987835

ABYC Certifi ed

Page 21: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 21

r A C i N g S C e N e

DAMIAN CANVAS WORKS

l Dodgersl Cushionsl Full Coversl Stern Roomsl Bridge Covers

- Satisfaction Guaranteed -

310-822-2343

Coast Guard Auxiliary

Boating Classes and Vessel Safety Check Website

www.d11s.org

Advertise in T h e M a r i n e r

310-397-1887Effective & Affordable

By Duncan Cameron, Regatta Co-chair

Many serious one-design and PHRF racers in Santa Monica Bay look forward to CYC’s annual Cal Race Week, to be held this year May 30 - 31. For 2015, CYC offers their usual high quality race management and hospitality, as well as several discounts to race fees.

Possible discounts, as outlined in the Notice of Race, will be offered to:• US Sailing members;• Early entrants—those who register before May 17;• “Frequent racers” defined as those having registered for any four of the following CYC races: - 2014 Cal Race Week - 2015 SCYA Midwinters - 2015 Harris Spring Regatta - 2015 Malibu Zig Zag - Sunset Series April 15 to May 13, 2015 (each evening counts separately).

Cal Race Week is one of the premier races held in Southern California. Along with contests like Long Beach Race Week, CRW is where Southern Californian racers come to compete. California Yacht Club has won US SAILING’s St. Petersburg trophy for excellence in race management three times in recent years and Cal Race Week is a shining example of how seriously the club takes its racing.

CYC expects many one-design classes to return in 2015 including the J109, J105, J80, J70, Martin 242, J24, Viper 640, Tartan 101, Santana 30/30 and Open 5.70 boats.

PHRF classes are open to boats with ratings 180 or lower under SoCal PHRF. Displacement and performance factors will be considered when establishing handicap classes in an effort to provide like-racing for competitors.

Registration is now open for Cal Race Week at calyachtclub.com. Contact regatta co-chairs Derek Heeb or Duncan Cameron at [email protected] for any questions about Cal Race Week.

• Marine electronics and installation• High performance rigging solutions,• Optimizing deck layout • Custom fi berglass and carbon fi ber work.

310-500-6216Jerome Sammarcelli

Page 22: The Mariner 146

22 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

you know, the Island Company is always tryin’ to think of new ways to drum up business). I suspect fewer boats hit the reef these days, and so no one keeps track of the groundings on a scoreboard anymore. I suppose that’’s progress —but I kinda miss the scoreboard and the chance to win a few bucks on a busy weekend.

Ship Rock lies about a mile off the mouth of the Isthmus and has a light atop it. If you plan to go near it check your chart and take note of the underwater spur that juts out from it. This rocky outcropping has claimed more than one boat.

Continuing “down-island” we pass Blue Cavern Point, the old quarry, Empire Landing and Rippers. If you stay at least 100 yards off shore you should be clear of rocks and kelp. If you’re new to the island keep a chart guide in your lap and take notes. If you want to poke into Rippers, Little Gibraltar or Goat watch your fatho and charts. If you want to nose in real close, a lookout on the bow might be useful. Note: There is a fair-sized, submerged, rock about 50 feet offshore approximately midway between Little Gibraltar and Goat Harbor—it could ruin your day, so pay attention.

Just ahead is Long Point. Once below it the seas are generally calmer and the weather often more settled.

As we round Long Point, White’s Landing and Moonstone spread out about a half a mile to leeward (pronounce “leeward—“Loo-erd” or you’ll irritate me). Just to starboard, Button Shell Beach is tucked up under the point—offering excellent protection under prevailing conditions.

We soon pass Willow, Toyon and Gallagher’s. The Frog Rock anchorage lies just ahead.

Frog Rock is the closest safe anchorage to Avalon. On summer weekends boaters who are turned away from the moorings in, Avalon, Descanso and Hamilton Cove often try the Frog Rock anchorage area. I use it often myself.

Note: The bottom in this area is famous for stealing anchors. Local “Monday morning” divers often visit the area after a busy weekend—anchors and chain aren’t cheap.

I got a surprise in that area a few years back. The boys and I were slowly motoring our sailboat and trolling down the island about 75 yards off shore. I could see that the Frog Rock area was crowded and so started to look around in the area just west for a spot to anchor. About this time some kayakers, just ahead, started yelling and gesturing. My boys on the bow turned around wild-eyed and pointed forward. Cautious (though perhaps too “laid-back) seaman that I am, I usually make it my practice, when folks start screaming warnings at me, to turn away toward deeper water, and slow down. I figure I’ll find out what the yelling’s about soon enough.

Well, we slid by a rock the size of ‘64 Cadillac, lying about 3 feet below the surface. I cringed an “Ouch!” and grabbed a chart. This aquatic boulder was news to me, and I’d been in the neighborhood a time or two. I scanned the chart carefully—nothing. Some rock symbols at the shoreline, but this uncharted bruiser was a good 50 yards off shore. It pays to be cautious—and doesn’t hurt to be surrounded by friendly kayakers and alert kids with loud voices.

Let’s pass Avalon by—I love the place, but the navigation is pretty straight forward around these parts.

When rounding the east end of the island it’s usually best to do it in the morning—before the westerlies and swell gets up.

Give yourself plenty of sea room—stay at least 250 yards off this rugged shoreline as we make our way toward Little Harbor.

About 11 miles ahead we round Ben Weston Point and are tempted to make a beeline for Little Harbor. Bad idea. Sentinel Rock and its rocky reef is just ahead. A cluster of rocks, often awash, spread out in front of Sentinel Rock. Leave the rock at least 150 yards to starboard as you pass. Stay further offshore if the seas are up, and they often are in this area.

One of my favorite anchorages, Little Harbor, is coming up off the starboard bow. The reef extends farther from the north point than is apparent. Give it a wide berth when entering. Try and identify the rocks and swirling water at the reef’s terminus before entering the cove.

Note: Many charts and guides incorrectly identify “Shark Harbor” as “Little Harbor”. Big mistake. Little Harbor is at the north end of the broader inlet—Shark Harbor is on the east shore. If you’re still confused, identify the palm trees in the campground of Little Harbor. Shark Harbor has no palm trees. Also, surfers like Shark Harbor—so, if a local long boarder passes you, throwin’ heat on a tube ride, there’s a good chance you need to rethink your position.

About three miles further on is Catalina Harbor—the queen of Catalina anchorage’s. The harbor’s entrance is broad and wide, and a landfall in daylight is easily accomplished. However, at night not all the nearly derelict vessels anchored at the entrance are lighted, and the floats and moorings themselves can pose a hazard. Also, to starboard lies Pin Rock —about fifty yards from shore. Give the east shoreline plenty of leeway. A first entry on a moonless night is a bit risky.

When leaving Catalina Harbor bound for West End it’s a good idea to stay well off the rocky shoreline. About 2.5 miles northwest of “Cat” Harbor is Whale Rock. This rock sits about 75 yards off shore. I personally knew a boater who lost his rudder and nearly his boat on it. It is unmarked, but charted.

Now, just ahead is Eagle Rock. This pinnacle shaped rock stands about 150 yards from shore, and 20 years ago I often passed between it and the island. However, now the channel is choked with kelp, and good judgment keeps me well to seaward of this craggy spire.

Well, here we are again at the West End. Give it a wide berth and set course due north. A steady hand on the helm and a fair wind will see us home—Marina del Rey is just under five hours away. Set the sails for an easy beam reach, make me a sandwich, and put on some Jimmy Buffett. And, hey, some chips and dip wouldn’t hurt...

Captain Richard Schaefer is a U.S.C.G. Licensed Sailing Master and has instructed, skippered charters, managed yachts and performed deliveries for more than 30 years. He can be reached for questions, comments or consultation at 310-460-8946 or at [email protected].

Continued from page 17

Page 23: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 23

Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club13589 Mindanao Way • Marina del Rey, CA 90292(310) 827-7692 www.smwyc.org

A Perfect Place in a Perfect Setting

Join Us ForOPEN HOUSE SUNDAYS

BBQ or home-cooked dinners from 5:00 - 7:00 and live jazz or classic rock music from 4:00 - 7:00

An ideal place for: Anniversary Parties Business MeetingsSeminars/ConferencesWeddingsAny special event

Check out our website www.smwyc.org for a calendar of all of our events and activities Make event reservations early at [email protected]. For facility rental and event information email [email protected].

For membership information please email [email protected]

Having a Holiday Party? Need a venue?Don’t wait...call us today to reserve your date at

(310) 827-7692, ext. 2, or email us at [email protected].

We offer some of the nicest facilities anywhere, the perfect place to enjoy the beautiful marina and wit-ness breathtaking sunsets. We are located on the main channel adjacent to Burton Chace Park. Our clubhouse, lobby, dining and meeting rooms and patio offer an ideal setting for any occasion.

donate...

w w w . l i f e s a i l . o r g

Boats, Resources, Time or MoneyBecome a Part of a Child‛s Future

800-249-6213

Page 24: The Mariner 146

24 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

Q: I am always wondering what ground verses grounding means, can you clear it up a little bit?

A: Yes, this is the most confusing terminology for boaters. When you’re on the boat, think of the ocean as you would the ground when you are on land. Grounding means attaching a conductor to the ground. A grounded conductor is a current carrying conductor that has common ground as part of the circuits.

For AC circuits, a grounding wire is the green wire and the grounded wire is the white wire. For most DC circuits, grounding wires are not required and the grounded wire is the negative wire.

Never use positive as ground on the boat because of the inherent corrosion hazard. Underwater hardware bonding wires for corrosion protection are not intended to be part of the DC system, but they are still connected to the DC grounded buss.

Yusheng Wang is ABYC certifi ed marine electrician. He has been working in Marina del Rey since 1994

Tip of the Month!

766 Washington Blvd., Marina del Rey, CA 90292Phone: (310) 821-4958

E-mail: [email protected]

• Knowledgeable Sales

• Professional Installation

• Expert Repair

• Electrical/Electronics Parts & Accessories in Stock

FCC Licensed, CMET certifi ed technicians on staff

Marit ime Communications

ELECTRONIC

Find us on Facebook

FOR YOUR BOAT

EVERYTHING

Since 1966

Handy nuggets of pocket s ized information to make your

travels easier, safer or just a bit more enl ightened

DIRTY YACHTS Cleans Boats

R I G H T !

310-717-0462w w w . d i r t y y a c h t s . c o m

Wash Downs • Wax Maintenance • Detailing • Isinglass Treatment • Interiors

Professional Quality Service • Over 20-years Serving Marina del Rey

Happy Holidays from the Team at Dirty Yachts!

BONDED & INSURED!

We’ll beat any LEGAL topside competitors prices!

GROUND VERSUS GROUNDING

Page 25: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 25

SailboatsBeneteau Oceanis 400Timeshare/Partnership on Beneteau Oceanis 400. Tri-cabin model - two heads. Full electronics, refrig-eration, inverter, dinghy and outboard, windless, roller furler, full canvas. Professional lessons available if needed. No equity buy in. 3 Days, $300.00 per month - no long term commitment. Call Captain Richard Schaefer 310-460-8946Challenger 35’ 1976.Well equipped, roomy, ready for Mexico and beyond. Fresh rig and new main/mizzen. Professionally main-tained. David 310 597 3971Ranger 33Famous Mollie Muldoon for sale at a great price,Less than 300 hours on replacement Universal 25 die-sel, current rigging, furling and near new load path UK genoa. Race faired bottom, several sails, and folding Martec prop. Good varnish, solid 12 v. electrical sys-tem and reliable recent plumbing. She is all original inside so she needs new cushions and fabric. The first offer of $10,990 makes her yours. [email protected] 27’ 1974Mercury outboard 8hr, Many sails, needs some tlc$4,500 obo - Pls call rick at 818-445-9882Martin 242Predator: lightly used A sails, new running rigging, re-built trailer, big sail inventory, outboard, tactics. Ready to race. $14,000 Kathy 310-486-236714’ Classic Enterprise sloop “Ku’ u ipo” (Euro Lido) Beautiful mahogany FRP epoxy. Spruce spars. $10 K all inclusive w/trailer. Fractional own-ership available. [email protected] 805 798-0493LaserFull rig sailboat, excellent condition, includes: harken upgrades, dolly, new paint job, new sail, new lines, PFD’s ready to sail! 323-898-7115 Gustavo

Power Boats 42’ 1981 Californian Trawler2 3208 Cat diesels w 1400 hrs, all fiberglass hull, 2 heads w showers, sleeps 8, one level walk around deck. Owner will carry or trade. Located in slip D-701 on Panay Way stern out endtie. $69,000 Call for Appt - Al Lee 310-392-4193 or Gary at 310-293-9200.36’ Hatteras Sportfisher1986 Sedan Cruiser in Pristine condition with ONLY 300 hours on diesel Caterpillar engines! Located in MdR. 818-200-9770 - [email protected]’sInflatablesWest Marine w/4HP“Scallywag Trained” Experienced Yamaha 4 hp 4-Stroke outboard with lightly used West Marine HP Floor Roll-Up Dinghy. This is a great light-weight, easy to deploy & stow, inflatable/engine combo that will plane easily with one adult aboard.

Skillful boating and an assist from a nearby wake will enable planing with two aboard. Best offer over $700 for the pair. [email protected]. 10’2 Mercury2012 hypalon airfloor $1,000. 310-822-86188’ QuicksilverSoft tail w/ motor bracket- $400. 310-822-8618Achilles Inflatable9’ Achilles - 310 823-1105

14’ Novurania310 823-1105Trailers0’ - 13’ Boats $400-$120014’ - 16’ Boats $600-$120017’ - 21’ Boats $750-$120024’ - 29’ Boats $3000310-822-8618.

Outboards/EnginesEvinrude 6HP6 HP long, like new 2 stroke (16 hours), (2) 3 gal tanks w/hoses, 2 sets new plugs, flusher, service manual. $575. 310-378-5986Used motors9.9 Mercury 2 stroke short-$8002.5 Yamaha 4 stroke short-$6006 Tohatsu 4 stroke “Sailpro” long-13008 Classic Honda long-$1,0008 Nissan 4 stroke short-$1,2009.9 Honda long, electric start remote included-$1,800New motors5 Mercury long sail-$ 1,5495 Mercury X-long- $1,5496 Tohatsu short-12999.8 Tohatsu x-long sail electric start- $2,20920 Honda Long- $3,25020 Honda Short remote- $3,85020 Yamaha elec short tiller- $3,499310-822-8618.6 HP Suzuki2 x 9,9 Yamaha high thrust remote 25”. 20 Johnson remote 20”. 40 Evinrude remote 20”. 50 Mercury re-mote 20”. 75 Mercury trim 20”. 125 Force trim remote. Price is right! Call 310 823-1105.

Other StuffToolsGeorge Biddle’s Boatwright’s complete tool shop for sale, bandsaw, power planer to hand tools. Including; clamps, chisels, & basic tools. Kathy 310-486-2367Buoyant Vests4-Type II adult near shore buoyant vests in original storage bag with whistles; never used - $30 Call 310-569-7991Big Boat FendersTaylor-Made Big B, 10” x 26”, white, with 10’ x 9/16” lines, like new, 2 for $75. 310-378-5986Tiller

5 ft. long it fits a Catalina 38 in excellent condition $25reaching strut for catalina 38 in excellent condition $40. 310 866 9439Alternator, Steps and a LadderMotorola 72amps 12 volt Marine alternator never used $75.00 3 steps dock boarding steps fiberglass $75.00 bof. Boat ladder teak 45’’ long $30.00818 701 0782Stuff - TV, Mounts, Chairs, Fender HoldersStainless dinghy mounts $100, four large stainless fender holders $75 ea. stainless/wood chairs, $25 ea. Samsung flat screen $100 - all in xlnt condition. 310-913-5533Trailers 0’-13’ Boats $400-$120014’-16’ Boats $600-$120017’-21’ Boats $750-$120024’-29’ Boats $3000310-822-8618MainsailFrom 40 ft. Cal - $450 call 310-823-2040SailsSpinnaker,2 drifters and a genoa for sale from a 28’ Lancer. Very good condition. Call 213 706 8364AnchorFortress FX-23 Anchor $150 - 310-391-6174Donate BoatsLooking for Boat DonationMarine Mammal ResearchThe Ocean Conservation Society, that conducts valuable research of marine mammals in the Santa Monica Bay, is looking for boat donations. There are many benefits to donating your boat. Please email [email protected].. www.oceanconservation.orgCash For Your Boat !Power or sail, Yachts to dinghys 310-849-2930Donate Your BoatLA Area Council Boy Scouts of America need your boat or boat gear as donation to support essential and formative youth programs, please call 310-823-2040 or E-mail [email protected] your boatTo SOS, a non profit organization helping and thank-ing our past and present Veterans. Www.supportin-gourservicemen.org. 888-658-8884Donate Your BoatReceive a substantial tax deduction. Support youth boating programs. S.O.S. Please call 888-650-1212Donate Your Boat Bringing the classroom to the ocean.Turn your donation into tomorrow’s scientists and doctors. 310-908-9198. www.city2sea.orgServicesRiggingSchaefer Rigging -. Repair, installations, cleaning, winch service, lazy-jacks, topping lifts, halyard re-placement, reefing systems, inspections, written surveys with video. Serving Marina del Rey to Long

Free Classifieds! Under 25 Words

Must be emailed to [email protected] issue run (non-commercial)

Page 26: The Mariner 146

26 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

Beach. Call Nathan Schaefer 805-667-7758. [email protected] Boat Covers and RepairsNew boat covers, canvas repair, restore water repellency to marine canvas. Dan 310-382-6242Come Sail with Capt. Royall!Fun Charters, professional deliveries, sail or power- boat lessons, video or photo shoots, private skipper, personable and experienced. www.royallcharters. com 310-367-3415USCG Licensed 100-tonMaster CaptainDeliveries/Lessons/Private Captain. Experienced, Courteous, Safe and Fun! Contact Jeffry Matzdorff 323.855.0191 [email protected]. Jeffry Matzdorff. 323.855.0191Photographic - VideoHow about an awesome in-water photo shoot for your pride and joy. When you are at your desk and can’t be with her, you can stare lovingly at a profes-sionally shot photo. OR how about a mini-doc video of your next race? 310-397-1887WantedInvestorFor new winery in Northern California. Contact for info at: [email protected]’ Catalina sailboat1982-1985, diesel preferredCall bob 310-286-7500, ext. 228Looking for a 36’-40’ YachtSomething like a Carver with 2 state rooms to live aboard - on a live aboard slip, Preferably in D Ba-sin. Please email [email protected] or call 310.314.3537

(310) 210-0861marinaresourcecenter.com

(310) 210-0861marinaresourcecenter.com

(310) 210-0861marinaresourcecenter.com

(310) 210-0861(310) 210-0861(310) 210-0861(310) 210-0861marinaresourcecenter.com

(310) 210-0861marinaresourcecenter.commarinaresourcecenter.com

(310) 210-0861(310) 210-0861marinaresourcecenter.com

(310) 210-0861(310) 210-0861marinaresourcecenter.com

(310) 210-0861marinaresourcecenter.com

(310) 210-0861

Captain Joel EveMarine Consulting Services

Since 1976Boating InstructionYacht ManagementDeliveryCaptain’s Services

Make the Ocean Your Treadmill!Phone: 310-822-7600w w w . p h i n s c l u b . c o m

Rowing inMarina del Rey!

Affordable and Fun

Captain David Kirby

• Fishing

• Diving

• Movie & Music Industry

• Yacht Management

• Deliveries

• Charters

949-275-4062

Check Out the Website!www.marinermagazine.com

Call 310-823-1458

We Take Pride in Our Marina!

CleanWell MaintainedAttentive Staff24-Hour SecurityWide Variety of Slip SizesAmenities

DOLPHIN MARINA

Dive ServiceS & K S & K

Quality Underwater Services

310-822-8349w w w . s a n d k d i v e . c o m

Page 27: The Mariner 146

2015 The Mariner - Issue 146 27

Page 28: The Mariner 146

28 The Mariner - Issue 146 2015

FIBERGLASS REPAIRSINCE 1969

Gel Coat SpecialistsCustom Fabrications

Expert Color MatchingCosmetic to Major Collisions

Custom Instrument Dashboards

310/306-2149

FIBERGLASS REPAIRHarry Gibson