S/V INTREPID II - Cape Dory Intrepid 40

My photo
Intrepid II is a Cape Dory Intrepid 40 sailboat, hull #2, designed by Chuck Paine and discovered by the Captain in Blue Hill Maine in 2006. The crew are Kelly (Captain) and Carol (Admiral and Blogger). In 2009 INTREPID II embarked on her West Coast journey from Victoria to San Francisco, the Baja Sur Peninsula and into the Sea of Cortez. In 2010/2011, we sailed from Guaymas, south to Bahia Banderas and back. In 2011/2012 we left Guaymas, headed south to La Paz, spent three weeks at anchor on our northward journey and rested on the hard in San Carlos. Her 4th, 5th and 6th seasons were Boat Projects related. Season 7 - an incredible amount of boat work - but no cruising. Season 8 - Tropical Storm Sergio toppled Intrepid II in San Carlos dry storage. A disappointing season of serious and costly repairs. Season 9 - continuing those repairs and still hopeful for cruising.

November 26, 2010

Family and celebrations - November 2010

Almost too artistic to eat!
I was thrilled to learn that my sister had an opportunity to drive out from Alberta with a friend to spend time with me last week. This was a special treat! I am so relieved that they arrived home last weekend after a long and trying drive back home through mountain passes and icy conditions, before the weather really turned daunting and even more wintry.

Victoria was not quite at her finest while they were here, but they enjoyed revisiting the city and surrounding areas.  I was treated to an early birthday dinner and have to share pictures - almost too good to eat.  Thank you Teri!
My birthday dessert!

Winter Wonderland on Vancouver Island - Friday November 26

Winter wonderland at home
Here is a photo of our current weather situation at home to ensure those of you already on your boats and in warmer climates really appreciate your atmospheric situation!  Vancouver Island, B.C. and most of the Prairies were hit all week with some of the coldest temperatures and heaviest snowfalls in a very long time.

It is sad to hear that there have been fatalities due to the driving conditions. I'm not sure if this can all be attributed to 2010 being a "La Nina" year.  It will be interesting to see what this cruising season holds for us in the Sea of Cortez.

November 14, 2010

A small Blog design change

Google Eblogger offers various templates and gadgets and advanced themes, etc.  Thought we'd try a new look for this season, but it took a few tries to ensure that all was readable.  Although we don't have "comments" available on this site, those of you who have our email - feel free to do so.  (Note:  we did open up to comments at a later date).

Preparing for 2nd Cruising Season - November 2010

Our second cruising season is underway!

The Captain arrived at Singlar Marina in Guaymas last week after driving down with a fully loaded Subaru station wagon. The cargo included items we needed, thought we might need and a few last minute parcels for cruising friends who requested more supplies.  Kelly ensured he had time to visit with family in California and met a new friend - hello Corky!

Kelly reports that INTREPID II seems to have weathered the Sonoran summer heat fairly well.  An abundance of red desert sand everywhere in the cockpit and on deck.  It is too soon to tell if all systems are functioning, until sails, bins, boxes, etc. are sorted and organized.  A number of cruising folks are already in residence at the docks and some in the works yard, so Kelly has the chance to go for dinner, catch up on news and have company as the boat preparation projects progress.  Other friends are hard at work at Gabriel's Marina Seca across the harbour and in San Carlos.

Local contractor Francisco and his crew have applied the bottom paint on INTREPID II, as planned earlier in the season. Kelly brought down a new water pump to be installed.  When that is in place he can once again fill water tanks without having to haul water up the ladder and will be able to cook on board.  Having our car available has been useful, although it will be another week before everything is out of the vehicle and stored somewhere onboard.  We now have one folding bike which will be of use for some nearby expeditions.  After much deliberation the inflatable kayak remained at home. If we had two, we'd be more likely to use them but this West Marine model does not offer quite enough leg room for Kelly.

Thank goodness for Skype! After a few challenges with Telcel and buying time for the phone and computer, we are in contact with each other and look forward to staying in touch with friends and family either through texting or chatting.