Catalina in May

A very nice visit to Catalina for Cinco de Mayo weekend!

The initial crossing was a trial, as engine troubles limited our speed and lengthened the journey considerably. My spirits fell when the sun dipped below the horizon. As the twilight faded, however, the moon rose majestically, bathing the island and water with that silvery-blue light I enjoy so much. I was nervous, but we picked up the mooring uneventfully, and soon I was enjoying my first Buffalo Milk of the season.

 

Look at that blue sky!

It's not often I see Catalina this green

Cat Harbor

Saturday started with a hearty breakfast and a hike.

Cinco de Mayo bandito

Lunch was an impromptu affair, when I commandeered the galley on our neighbors' boat and fixed some delightful chimichangas, while they forced me to drink margaritas. After a long nap, it was time to make good on the invitation we received from a yacht club that was hosting a party onshore. The carne asada was delicious and the booze, prodigious! The after-party featured billiards, more Buffalo Milk, and Catalina Punch, followed by a dinghy ride back to the Felix.

View of the pier from Felix

Sunday started early for me, and far too early for my guests. I was eager to be underway, as I was afraid the wind would be light and our progress slow. Instead, we had a beautiful crossing with an average of about 11 knots and a great point of sail. My guests slept, but I drank in the sun and sea and breeze. Just gorgeous!

The crossing gave me plenty of time for quiet reflection. It was nice to commune with Felix and the Pacific. I'm thinking trips to Catalina have a lot to offer. Perhaps my summer will be filled with excursions?