Catalina Rally Update

Looks like our sailig club has nailed down the date to rally across to Catalina Island.  The members from the Boulder Valley Sailing Club established August 13-17 as the best time for most of the members to participate.  After some research, Marina Sailing and Blue Pacific out of Marina del Rey are the two likely candidates to charter from.  They seem to have the largest fleets so everyone has a few boats to choose from.  And, conveniently,  MDR is only 10-15 minutes from LAX.  Those who are driving, both charter companies have free parking for the duration of the trip.  It is a good time for the memebers that haven't officially documented their sea time do so ASAP so they can reserve a boat and schedule a "check-out" time prior to departure, be it the morning of, or the day/ week before setting sail.  Members holding a ASA 104 certification and a "sufficient" sailing resume shouldn't have a problem reserving a boat and completing a quick 30 minute checkout (included in the charter package) the morning of the charter.  Those who are relying on their sailing resume alone may have to complete a one, two or three hour check-out/ test sail and will have to schedule that time separate from the charter time with an additional fee (usually $75/hour).  Steadfast is planning to sail down to the northern channel islands in early August and, possibly, rendezvousing with the club boats prior to crossing San Pedro channel.  If the latter plan doesn't work we might meet the fleet in Avalon or Two Harbors.  It is still a little early to tell.  Either way we plan on cruising the Channel Islands in August and September.  So, book your spot on Steadfast quickly, before all the "seats" are taken ;)