S/V INTREPID II - Cape Dory Intrepid 40

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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.

January 13, 2018

Mid January Musings

Hola!  Time flies when boat projects become more challenging and complex and require extending stays in rental accommodations.  Here is a quick summary of how the days have unfolded since the New Year.

The Captain may eventually find time to reflect and comment on the efforts he has put in to replace hoses and valves and clamps.  To wait patiently - sort of - for yet more parts to make their way to Mexico, then through Customs and on to San Carlos.  To track down parts manufacturers only to be told "oh - we haven't updated that drawing for years - it doesn't match the part you have".  It is now January 13th and we are at times concerned that we won't have a home either on land or onboard at month end.  The property rental office is sending clients to view our apartment.  The marina states it is high season and slips are in high demand.  The pressure is on!

The Admiral is pleased with her efforts at designing and sewing ten new pairs of curtains for INTREPID II; six are now complete.  There is also a large bolt of Sunbrella fabric propped in the corner awaiting efforts to turn it into covers for much of our exterior teak.  However, a stuffy head and persistent cough are not the ideal conditions to work with in sketching out the most efficient use of pricey fabric.  Hoping that soon we will both feel much more energized and inspired.

We do relish the much better weather here in San Carlos and wish for improved temperatures for everyone 'back home'.  The sunrises and sunsets are consistently beautiful and inspiring, our current neighbourhood has its share of visitors and we do take breaks to enjoy the surroundings.

Sunrise view from De Anza 
Local herd of cattle foraging through empty lots

Colour in January
















Yesterday it was time for a treat, so late afternoon saw us driving to Thrifty's for ice cream, then on to the Estero el Soldado (the Soldier's Estuary).  This nature sanctuary is located near the highway leading in to San Carlos, off the Boulevard Escenico.  This area was established in 2006 in an effort to ensure protection of the flora and fauna, while allowing visitors to walk or kayak to observe. The coastal lagoon is 180 acres adjacent to San Francisco Bay beach, and we accessed it near Condominios Pilar.  There is also a Visitor's Office off the road leading to the Delfinario on the way to Miramar.
Estero El Soldado 

Lagoon at low tide

Mangroves surrounding esturary
















There were few birds in the lagoon, but we relished the peacefulness and quiet.  A walk along the beach at dusk added to our relaxation before heading 'home' for the evening.


Cactus with Tetakawis in far distance

Sending out shoots along the sand
Gull on San Francisco beach

Waves roll in



3 comments:

Unknown said...

Thank you for the update, it's good to see that you are getting some relaxing in along with your repairs. We were wondering how you were getting on. The pictures look fabulous and informative. I love that. L & L

The Intrepid II Crew said...

L& L: Hola and thanks! Yes we need to take time to enjoy what makes San Carlos special. Considering renting kayaks perhaps if we find time. Take care.

Unknown said...

Hope you get the home/hearth/boat situation sorted out soon. As you know, we appreciate the strength and fortitude required to keep everything tickity-boo. Thank you for the update. Our very best wishes and safe travels. L & L