Fetchin' Ketch Crew Information

Crew Information for Fetchin Ketch

Boat Style

One thing that never happens on Fetchin' Ketch is yelling and shouting. I don't do things better and faster when being yelled at so why should you? Fetchin' Ketch isn't a race boat, and although I enjoy making her go as fast as she can, we sail as relaxed and peaceful as possible. Two people can easily handle her. In fact, sailing can be a one person affair, but docking really needs a second hand. The usual headsail is roller furling, and while there is a spinnaker, it is an asymmetrial design without a pole and sets and douses using a sock. You experienced foredeck people can actually relax and enjoy the ride for a change!

If you have never sailed a ketch before, it's not that different. The mizzen sail is trimmed a little tighter than the main and that's about all there is to it. There is nothing as fun as a broad reach in light and steady wind with the spinnaker and mizzen staysail flying! Colorful and fast!

Where & When

Fetchin' Ketch sails out of Marina Bay in Richmond, California. Mostly she goes on evening and weekday daysails on San Francisco Bay. Sails up or down the coast are done when time and weather permits.

There is usually no set schedule or destination except the one that we agree on for the day. If there will be something special, I'll be sure you know about it ahead of time.

Crew Skills

If you can follow simple instructions, like "Pull that rope", you will do fine. I enjoy sailing with people of all skill levels. I enjoy it when an experienced hand is on board and has something to teach me, and I enjoy teaching complete novices.

Other Info

If you have never gone sailing on San Francisco Bay, please be sure to ask about how to dress and what to bring. It won't be like you expect! Since the temperature can vary in one sail from balmy to bone-chilling, the rule is layers! In general, she is a dry boat, but the ocean is nothing if not wet, and spray does sometime find its way into the cockpit. An outer layer of something water resistant or quick drying is always a good idea. If you don't have "genuine" deck shoes any kind of tennis shoe or athletic shoe will work. Closed toe is a good idea, since there are lots of things to stub toes on. Any kind of shoe with a hard sole will be treacherous.

We try to share lunch and beverage duties for the day's sail.

After trying to schedule one for several months, finally I arranged a USCG Courtesy Inspection. Fetchin' Ketch, of course, passed with flying colors.

Check here for the the boat rules.

And finally, if you are reading this page you probably think sailing is fun. Well if you look here you will find even more reasons why :-)

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