Maiden Voyage of 0Regrets

After over a year searching for our next adventure, many days and hours on internet sites, walking docks and talking to many boat owners, the adventure began September 24th. with the maidenn voyage of our little boat, 0Regrets.  As the new name implies we pursue life to its fullest with no regret. 

Our new adventure is an Albin 36 Trawler purchased 9/22/2011 and sailed Saturday 9/24/2011.  A marine survey was completed, sea trial undertaken and lubirication analysis of engine, generator and transmission.  Our little boat came through clear of any major problems and we have begun our THREE YEAR TOUR.  We enjoyed 2 evenings of "rubbing and loving" the teak interior with another 1/2 day spent provisioning the boat for our first sail.  We pushed away from Green Turtle Bay Marina at noon Saturday in search of adventure and new "worlds".  They unfolded before our eyes with a beautiful sail along the Land Between the Lakes coast heading south on Kentucky Lake.  We were impressed that one of our dock neighbors hailed us on the VHF radio along the way to wish us happy sailing and told us our boat looks great on the water.  I was impressed I could even operate the radio with a "roger" to that. 

Navigating a boat takes the skill of Columbus and mathmatics of a higher plain.  You know, GPS, radar, depth sounders, VHF radio and a good paper chart.  Never mind that the GPS on our phones follow us on our route.  Well, Captain Barry under the guideance of Admiral Denise made our way to our chosen anchorage, Duncan Bay at the feverish clip of 8 knots (8.96 mph) for your land lubbers.  Dropping anchor is a harrowing task requiring slowing to a stop and pushing the windless button "down" till anchor and road is well placed.  We were rewarded with a secluded evening in a small bay watching the folliage turn many colors and wondering why we waited so long to float. 

Our evening passed quietly with a beautiful sunset and one challege awaited us.  We require our trusty dogs, Bailey and Bella to be our 2nd and 3d. mates for our cruise.  But where or where to potty?  We have not readied our Dingy as yet and it would be a long swim ashore.  Not to worry, Admiral Denise took the helm and secured a dog potty SYSTEM.  Right, a piece of astro turff in a plastic container with instructions to lead your dog to the spot and tell them to potty!  Well after 12 hrs. mate Bailey finally found a spot to Pee but this was on the bow deck 36 ft. from the appointed spot.  Bella just held her water.  But all ended well. Upon arriving at our dock at GTB with the help of our first dock friend, he was greated with Bailey and Bella dropping #2 on the bow, on the potty turf.  YEAH!!!  Success with an audiance.  We had to reasure our neighbor that this was a complimant to his helping us dock.  He was not over joyed but did continue to wish us home from our voyage.  Meanwhile, Bailey and Bella  seemed relieved.

Now for our Griswald moments!  Each new adventure seems to include a few moments which remain in our memories no matter how embarassing.  All the moments of our maiden voyage are the responsibility of Captain Barry.

1).  While disconnecting the shore electrical power I managed to drop the "Y" connector into the drink watching it sink to bottom of our dock.  These cost about $500.  OOPS.  Later with the help of our only new friend, I managed to snag the Y and pull aboard.  Whew.

2).  During the cruise wind increased and we opted to close the from portion of the bridge canvass.  Well in  order to help the Admiral, I applied excessive pressure on the wind screen cracking a portion.  Who know what that will cost. But the Admiral was understanding informing me that I could use my checking account.

We have planned our next adventure with 2 guests, brave unknowing souls.  Fair warning, we will keep all interested up to date on the new adventure of the 0Regrets.  Who knows, next fall maybe Florida and Bahamas for the winter months. 

Happy Sailing,   

Denise, Adm.  Captain Barry, Mates Bailey and Bella