Captain's Blog of the S/V Sarah Mead

New bronze ballast!

2012-01-26T18:38:00.001-05:00

Captain Randy is staying busy this winter; he has managed to resurrect an old bronze bilge pump that we think will fit perfectly on the forward side of Sarah Mead's engine hatch.

In addition to the new pump, he has rigged a new swivel for Sarah Mead's staysail foot. I guess this means the staysail will be held on by more than wire next season!

Ghosts of the past...

2012-01-22T15:35:00.002-05:00

"Eagle"

"Omaha"

Captain Nate spent this chilly Sunday not working on the Sarah Mead, but rather poking around two older friendship sloops. "Eagle" and "Omaha" are both classics, and in need of extensive repair!

While "Omaha" still has plenty of life left in her, "Eagle" is most likely headed for a dumpster somewhere. We may, however, keep her memory alive by repowering the Sarah Mead with her 32-horsepower diesel!

Refastening! Again.

2012-01-13T21:40:00.000-05:00

It's a new year and Sarah Mead's topsides need new fasteners! This weekend we began the process by pulling the cotton and seam compound from her seams amidships, where we have begun to notice a few planks walking away from their frames.

One and a half seams down, four to go!

Once the seams are clean we will begin the rather brutish process of setting her planks back against the frames and securing them with brand new bronze screws.

The new bowshed is nice and cozy

Our New Years' Project!

2012-01-08T15:33:00.000-05:00

It's 2012, which means the crew at Sail Muscongus is finding new things to do! The first of which is a restoration of this bronze draw pump. It is solid bronze, 2.75" diameter and sends one gallon of water overboard with each pull! We are thinking of mounting it on the Sarah Mead's engine hatch, in honor of the original bronze draw pump she originally was built with.

We are, however, at a loss for where to get replacement parts. If you have any idea where we can find parts to replace the original leather seals, send us a shout!

2011-12-19T08:45:00.001-05:00

Some thoughts out to those on the water this winter!

Life Aboard!

Mywife and I lived aboard a 32’ Columbia sloop in Portland Harbor, Maine from thespring of 2005 to the fall of 2008. Engaged and just out of college, we foundourselves thrust into a unique environment rich with opportunity, challenge andadventure. We will return to life at sea again, and this impromptu guide ismeant to provide us - and others who hear the ocean’s call - with guidance uponchosing a life at sea. Although we have enjoyed the company of many powerboatliveaboards, all of the recommendations below relate specifically tosailboat-minded liveaboards. Some of this guide will also include suggestionsfor cruising liveaboards although our experience was largely “stationary,”meaning we sailed from a single port.

Three things to know:

No sailboat is too big for a liveaboard. Our 32’ sloop was crammed for us and our cat. The 42’ steel hull at the end of the dock was too small for the bachelor who lived there. The 65’ ketch by the pumpout station was “cozy” for the retired couple. There is never enough room on a sailboat. Be ready to shed some possessions during your move. Make it therapeutic; you can finally get rid of the stereo kicking around in the attic, sell the outdated television, burn the ugly sweater you got last Christmas. Take the opportunity to discover what’s really important! Or, be prepared to pay for land-based storage during your time aboard.
You are not the first, nor the only. It’s easy to imagine you’ll be the only one residing on the ocean, but people have been living on boats all around the world for a long, long time. When you call your vessel “home,” you are initiated into a society of people ironically trying to “get away.” This community is your best resource to get the most out of your living situation. Don’t be shy; every liveaboard is happy to give advice on how to dock, rig lifelines or pump out your holding tank. Fellow liveaboards are more than mere neighbors; we still speak with ours years after our move ashore. Choose a marina with a good population of liveaboards and immediately seek them out. Ask them questions, help them tie up and, most importantly, host a storm party!

Timing is everything! A lack of due diligence sunk the Titanic, so think it through before you commit.

Find the right boat. It could take months or even years, but don’t settle for less. She is much more than a roof over your head. The “perfect” liveaboard vessel is affordable, functional and beautiful. Good luck.

Once you find her, learn herquirks. If you don’t have the experience to do so, find someone who can. Afriend, boat handling course or USCG licensed captain can show you the ropes.When you’re ready, sail until you break something. Then fix it yourself.

Find the right marina, or, if you plan on cruising, plot the right course. Even ocean liners don’t hang around Cape Horn! The largest factor to a liveaboard’s comfort is the outdoor environment, so be sure to pick a spot in a climate and weather pattern you prefer. “Stationary” liveaboards should also be sure to check their marina’s policies prior to arrival, as some refuse to cater to liveaboards due to the “increased liability” of actually having someone onboard 24/7. If you plan on cruising for the duration of your liveaboard experience, make sure you chose friendly ports with supplies and accommodations necessary to keep sailing on.

So, you canalready feel your hands on the helm, hear the slap of waves on the bow from theV-berth, practically have salt water running in your veins. It’s going to behard, but take the time, make the plan. My high school senior thesis detailedhow I was going to liveaboard after college, a full five years before weactually did. I spent the time between reading, researching and sailing as muchas possible.

Three downsides:

It’s expensive. When we moved ashore, we were shocked to discover our costs of living on land were comparable to (if not less than) those we paid while living aboard. While aboard, you can avoid property taxes, cable bills and plowing or landscaping fees. You cannot, however, escape marina and mooring rates, shore power electric bills, post office box fees, pump-out charges, insane insurance premiums and astronomical “at the dock” fuel prices. Less frequent but more significant costs when living aboard include bottom paint reconditioning, rigging or sail repair and having to purchase anything labeled “marine,” which means the product usually doubles in price. If you live in a cold climate, you will have to designate a significant amount of your budget to staying warm in winter months; in a warmer climate just as much money will have to go towards year-round refrigeration and air conditioning.

Don’t expect areturn on your sailboat, either. Generally, the value of any vessel tends to depreciate over time, as opposed to land-based properties,which historically appreciate.This is not to say sailboats never appreciate. It is possible to increase thevalue of a sailboat if she can be purchased at a lesser price than she would beworth after necessary renovations or improvements. This is especially effectiveif you can do the work yourself. Be forewarned; living aboard duringrenovations is no walk in the park. Leaky hatches, plumbing problems andelectrical trickery can quickly frustrate even the most diehard liveaboard, asthey can be very expensive and time-consuming to fix. If you have the know-howand the patience, however, financial success is possible! We managed to weatherand conquer multiple problems while aboard the Encore, and equity from her sale allowed us to purchase ourfirst mainland home in 2008.

Weather. Say goodbye to fair-weather sailing. You will have to go out in the rain, the wind, the sunshine and, depending on how far you are from the equator, the snow. There will be storms, too, and there are a few items you will need to make your dockside living conditions more comfortable during a blow.

Snubbers. They look awkward and ugly, but these big rubber devices take the snap out of a 20 degree roll. Not only do they reduce the impact on your cleats, but also the creaking and groaning of your nylon dock lines. We used to sleep very well aboard the Encore with a three-foot swell rolling through the marina, thanks to snubbers.
Three-strand nylon. In my opinion, only three-strand nylon line should ever be used to tie up a boat. It stretches, it’s easy to splice, easy to tie and is relatively cheap. The diameter of your dock lines will vary depending on boat size, however I recommend no less than 5/8” for any vessel over 25’ in length. You wouldn’t find anything smaller than ¾” holding the 32’ Encore in place.
Chafe gear. If there’s a chance your dock line could brush a stanchion, lifeline, shore power post, piling or another dock line, it should be protected. The Kevlar-like stuff at the marine store can be expensive, so take a drive to the local fire department and see if they are getting rid of any old hose. It works great.
Storm party! We found the most pleasurable way to get through bad weather was to spend time with our liveaboard neighbors. Preferably those with large, heavy boats that were tied off properly.

Every sailorfears a hurricane, typhoon or tropical storm, but for liveaboards even goodweather can be harmful. Overexposure to sun, salt water and residual moisturecan each have nasty effects, so liveaboards have to be sure to take care ofthemselves even on the best of days. Wear sunblock and sunglasses, be sure todrink lots of water and only wear clothing that’s clean and dry.

Cabin fever. People tend to think it takes a lot of energy to live aboard; that life on a sailboat is full of activity and sailors hardly ever sit still. In reality, liveaboards spend more time sitting down than they would if they lived ashore, especially on sailboats with limited headroom. Sitting still for long periods of time, (during a stormy weekend, for example) can cause obesity, diabetes, heart disease as well as harm joints and tendons. To make matters worse, in a liveaboard’s case these motionless periods are often followed by quick, physically demanding tasks in less-than ideal positions. Bending over to tighten a dock line, crouching down to open a hatch or stretching over a lifeline to raise an anchor are just a few examples of seemingly harmless activities that can suddenly cause serious health problems for liveaboards.

This one is easyto disregard, but a very real issue; while living aboard the Encore I transitioned from a labor-intensive occupation toa desk job and almost immediately suffered lower back trauma. I hadn’t realizedthat my physically demanding work had been providing me with the activity Ineeded to counteract the harmful stationary position I would often find myselfin while aboard (sitting on the port side settee by the heater). I have heardthat sailors also frequently suffer from injuries to the Achilles tendon forthe same reason. Despite your age, build or strength, liveaboards need to leadan active lifestyle in order to meet the physical demands of their livingconditions.

Three upsides:

Sailing.
Sailing.
Sailing!

This isn’t a “how to” for afloating apartment or condo – remember to use your vessel! It’s often easier to stay tied to the dock, but that’snot what it’s all about. Get out there, catch some wind and let it take yousomewhere you’ll never forget.

Sail Muscongus Holiday Newsletter

2011-11-29T08:22:00.001-05:00

For those of you who didn't get the email, here's our holiday greeting!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM SAIL MUSCONGUS! We hope this message finds you and your family warm this holiday season. Muscongus Bay is quiet and empty this time of year, so we always like to check in with passengers to share memories of sailing trips past, and thoughts of those yet to begin! Our 2011 season kicked off at the Spruce Point Inn in Boothbay Harbor, where Florida native Steven proposed to his fiancé Jen before the mast of the Sarah Mead. Hopefully they can rejoin us for their first anniversary in 2012! As always, captains Nate and Randy enjoyed invading Damariscotta during the third annual Pirate Rendevouz, and even recruited a few scurvy dogs to assist with some underwater maintenance to the Sarah Mead. Next year we hope to have some cannons! Once again, we welcomed some movers and shakers from Victory Brewing, Kelly and her “master brewer” companion had a great time sailing the bay, including portions of Friendship Harbor. We hope to see you too next year, Steve! Now the Sarah Mead finds herself high and dry and as captains Nate and Randy prepare for their winter projects we would like once again to thank everyone who made it possible for Sail Muscongus to finally be privately owned and operated! Without your support and encouragement the restoration of Sarah Mead would have been impossible. And, as her needs grow and change we hope you will continue to support our organization by experiencing all Muscongus Bay has to offer, time and time again. If you haven’t found us already, we are now on Facebook and have a Captain’s Blog, feel free to connect with us there! Christmas is right around the corner – purchase your 2012 sailing gift certificates now so someone else you know may finally experience Maine the way is was meant to be, aboard a Friendship Sloop in beautiful Muscongus Bay!Capt. NateCapt. RandySail Muscongus!WWW.SailMuscongus.com207-380-5460

We're on TV!

2011-09-18T18:12:00.000-04:00

Sailing with your senses

2011-08-15T07:11:00.000-04:00

We may not have caught any "keepahs" this weekend, but we sure did enjoy sailing with a number of different people from all over the country! Perhaps the highlight of the weekend was handing the helm over to Maureen from Albany - Sail Muscongus' first visually-impaired passenger. Just using the tension of the lines at her back and the wind in her hair, Maureen expertly handled the Sarah Mead for nearly an hour on a downwind leg! Nice job Maureen, we hope to see you again!

Beat the Heat!

2011-07-22T15:51:00.002-04:00

The temperatures in New England continue to climb! Come sailing on a much cooler Muscongus Bay this weekend, we still have plenty of availability, and, as always, it is garaunteed to be a unique, private, exclusive experience you'll never forget!

Sail Muscongus helps during salvage

2011-07-19T07:57:00.002-04:00

Captains Nate and Randy had a little fun last week helping out the crew at TowBoat U.S. as they salvaged a 40 foot Pacific Seacraft from Ram Island, Maine. *NOTE - Video may not be family-friendly*

It's a keepah!

2011-07-11T07:49:00.004-04:00

It was a windy weekend, but the fishing was good as Captain Nate managed to catch some more mackeral to bait his traps off Bulls Point. In addition to the bait, Nate pulled one keeper aboard on Saterday. It made a good dinner for the crew that night.

Breaks in the fog

2011-06-26T18:58:00.006-04:00

This weekend was fairly drizzly, however the Sarah Mead managed to sail through the best of the weather, finding wind on both days. Captain Nate decided to haul one of his lobster traps while underway off Bulls Point, something the whole crew enjoyed. Too bad there weren't any keepers!

Shakedown 2011!

2011-06-01T07:21:00.004-04:00

Just six days after the Friendship Sloop Sarah Mead hit the water we set sail for the first time in 2011! Sarah Mead sailed perfectly, even with the newly redesigned helm station, adjusted forestays and repaired mainsail. The weather is looking good this weekend as we will be sailing to Boothbay Harbor to help out a friend who needs to make a formal porposal ...

Thanks to Randy Williams for all the great shots! (again)

Welcome aboard, Dave!

2011-05-23T07:24:00.004-04:00

The Sarah Mead hit the water this past weekend, much to the help of our first summer deckhand, Dave. Dave did a great job helping us get ready for the season, now we wait for the sun to come out!

A spring makeover

2011-05-16T21:14:00.004-04:00

Well, it's official: The Sarah Mead has graduated from a "boat" to a "yacht." This year Skippers Randy and Nate Jones decided to upgrade the Sarah Mead's nameboard, swapping out a makeshift painted piece of 1/4 plywood for raised lettering! In addition to the prominantely new name, they also stripped and finished Sarah Mead's spars, something niether captain ever thought they would have time to do. Sarah Mead will hit the water on May 21, See you in Muscongus starting June 1!

Island Time!!

2011-04-10T17:42:00.007-04:00

The Sarah Mead may be high and dry, but skippers Nate and Randy made their way to Louds Island this weekend to open house for the 2011 season! Both family homes are doing well and we were very impressed with our new motor for the "Blue Boat," our powerboat workhorse to and from the mainland. Five weeks until launch, then we can enjoy Muscongus from the deck of the Sarah Mead!

Spring is in the air!

2011-03-23T06:39:00.003-04:00

As the temperature rises and the snow begins to finally melt, the phones at Sail Muscongus are jumping off the hook. It's looking like the 2011 sailing season is going to be a busy one, be sure to make your reservation before your weekend fills up! Our season begins June 1 and ends in late September, there's still plenty of availability but who knows for how long! Email: Captains@SailMuscongus.com or call 207-380-5460 today and we'll book it!

The winter bug!

2011-02-13T18:33:00.005-05:00

It's officially time for the Sail Muscongus crew to start getting the off-season sailing bug! Despite the massive snowfall this winter, we are staying busy working on Sarah Mead's motor and tackling many different theories to raise her ankle-high wheel about 12 inches. In addition to boat maintenance, Randy and Nate are also dealing with a pile of "red tape" in order to renew their captain's licenses. Turns out a tour sailboat captain must pass the same regulatory standards as a tugboat skipper - who knew!? Hope everyone is staying warm and enjoying the winter, see you in the spring.<

Gift Certificates available!

2010-12-04T09:51:00.002-05:00

Hello from Muscongus, Maine! We hope this finds you in good health and spirits this winter, wherever your home port may be. This past summer sailing season was a record-breaker for the Sail Muscongus crew, both in terms of successful trips and unbelievable weather! A few highlights were the Pirate Rendevouz in June, the Friendship Sloop Days in July, and being an integral part of a Louds Island wedding in August! (Pictures Below)
If you couldn’t join us in 2010, there’s always next year! Believe it or not, the summer will fill up quick, so be sure to make your booking sooner rather than later. As always, we will continue to offer a one-on-one, uniquely private and fun experience next year, starting in June!
Want to send a family member or friend a unique gift? Gift certificates are available this holiday season and make a great stocking stuffer. It might be cold outside, but the promise of sailing off the Maine coast can warm even the worst Scrooge!
For more information check out Sail Muscongus, “Friend” us on Facebook, stay up-to-date with the Captain’s Blog or give us a buzz at 207-380-5460!

Sailing into the sunset

2010-10-16T13:32:00.005-04:00

One of the highlights of this past sailing season was being able to sail a bride and groom from Louds Island to the mainland following their island reception. Congratulations, and thanks for making us part of the festivities!

Thanks for an awesome season!

2010-10-02T13:27:00.005-04:00

Our fifth season is finally over, and the results are in: our most successful yet! Thanks to all of our returning passengers and the new faces we met this past summer, which couldn't have been much btter weather-wise. As usual, we overcame a few technical difficulties (with the motor) and had somegreat adventures. Or season will kick off next year with the Pirate Rendevou in Damariscotta, see you there!

New waters

2010-09-27T07:02:00.004-04:00

This weekend we took two new sailors out on Muscongus and gave them a few tips for their daysailing adventures next season. Both adapted remarkably well to fluky wind conditions and the Sarah Mead's temperment! Here's their rendition fo the sail and a few shots of their new boat. Good luck next year!

Hi nate,

thanks again for everything on saturday afternoon. we have been
completely in awe of the sailing experience you provided us. now that
i am home, i have been looking at our boat, and can't wait for spring. see
you next year, and once again, thanks for everything.

best,

danny +denise
orange, mass

"tangerine 18"-1978

Sail Muscongus gets silly!

2010-08-29T19:32:00.003-04:00

With two trips on the books for the entire weekend, the crew at Sail Muscongus decided to enjoy the boat themselves. September is looking like a great month to sail, so make your reservation today!

What a weekend!

2010-08-23T07:05:00.006-04:00

This weekend future skipper Lucy Jones celebrated her first Birthday! It was a really good time with family and friends, followed by a rousing day of sailing with the same. Memorial Day may be right around the corner, but this year the crew at Sail Muscongus is planning to sail straight through to Octover, so book your seasonal reservation while there's still room!

Almost there!

2010-08-15T20:00:00.004-04:00

This weekend the newest crewmember in the Jones family went sailing on a beautiful summer day! It is hard to believe that she will be turning One-year-old this upcoming weekend. Before long, she'll be hoisting the mainsail and taking the helm. In addition to our family outing, we met several new passengers, including the owner of Victory Brewing Company, and Bono's agent!

Sloop Days!

2010-07-27T07:06:00.003-04:00

We were tried by weather and mechancal difficulties this year, but stil made it!

A new viewpoint!

2010-07-07T19:28:00.002-04:00

As seen from the mainland, the Sarah Mead sails with boats from a Round Pond sailing school just off Bull's Point, Loud's Island, Maine. Captain Nate, his sister, Beth, and his daughter, Lucy, were all baptized on the beach in the background. What a wonderful shot, thanks for sending it our way!

Harbor Island Retreat!

2010-06-23T16:51:00.003-04:00

Looking for something unique to do this summer? Try a Harbor Island retreat with the Sail Muscongus crew. Sail there, check out Franklin Island Lighthouse while eating lunch, then return to the mainland, all at an affordable price. Last weekend Captain Nate took the long way around, and found some deep water and sporty sailing.

Summer comes early!

2010-06-20T18:00:00.004-04:00

It felt like August this weekend, with temperatures reaching up to 90 degrees on the mainland! What better way to beat the heat than a two-day excursion onboard the Sarah Mead. Thsi weekend Captain Nate put some water under the keel sailing to Harbor Island on a blustry Saturday and returned to Muscongus for a fun-filled trip on Sunday. The summer is looking busy, so get on the books now!

Pirate invasion: Success!

2010-06-14T07:48:00.004-04:00

Thanks to everyone who gathered at the Damariscotta waterfront on Saturday to make the 2010 Pirate Rendevouz a huge succes! In addition to bringing in several swashbucklers to "Battery Point" under cannonfire, we met many nice people we hope to meet again, with maybe a little less "ARRRRGH" in our home waters in Muscongus. The next event that we will sail to is the Friendship Sloop Days, this year is the 50th anniversary of the historical race - in Rockland on July 23. See you then!

Arrrgh!

2010-06-10T09:52:00.003-04:00

Prepare to invade! Saturday the crew of the Sarah Mead will bring a load of pirates to help invade the town of Damariscotta, starting at high noon. Come on down for a great show, good food and a scurvy good time! More info here!

Shakedown!

2010-06-01T08:02:00.004-04:00

This past weekend the Sarah Mead set sail for the first time in 2010! With friends abaord, we found that the repairs this past winter have taken the boat to a whole new level. A little more paint, a jolly roger and a cannon will have us ready to invade Damariscotta on June 12!

She Floats!

2010-05-16T20:25:00.007-04:00

Saterday was blustery with some passing showers, but we mamnaged to get the mast into the step and the hull into the great Atlantic Ocean! This year the Sarah Mead is sporting a refastened hull, a newly shaped transom and remounted boom crutch. The devil is in the details - which we will take care of in the upcoming week prior to a shakedown trip and then the Pirate Rendevouz in Damariscotta!

Five days to launch!

2010-05-09T18:48:00.003-04:00

This weekend was windy and rainy, but we managed to stay on track to launch the Sarah Mead this upcoming weekend. Paint, paint, and more paint! Once in, she will swing on her mooring until June 12, when we travel up the Damariscotta River for the Pirate Rendevouz. ARRRGH!

Eight weeks until launch!

2010-03-20T19:16:00.007-04:00

The first day of spring began the eight-week countdown to our 2010 season! This weekend the cockpit seats were fitted, reinforced and fiberglassed and will be installed next week. In addition to the work on the cockpit, a few local child laborers helped out making more plugs as our refastening project continues...

When you get bored ...

2010-03-14T18:36:00.006-04:00

Drill a hole in the bottom of your boat ....
(Don't worry, it's just a through-hull installation aboave the waterline to replace the bilge output).

Oak in the right places

2010-03-11T06:44:00.005-05:00

This spring the Sarah Mead is gaining a little wieght; a new oak plank on her transom, several oak plugs where there were once through-hulls and new cockpit seats are all projects we plan to have finished prior to launch in May. Our bowshed blew down in winds clocked at over 90 miles an hour a few weeks ago, but we quickly had it rebuilt, although it is a little shorter now!

New cotton!

2010-01-31T07:25:00.005-05:00

This past weekend Dad and I put some new cotton between Sarah's 45-year-old cedar planks, and she took it well. A couple more fasteners to button up some butt blocks and she will be ready for underwater seam compound.

They call it the "off-season."

2010-01-24T09:51:00.009-05:00

It might be the middle of winter, and the Sarah Mead is high and dry, but that's not stopping the crew at Sail Muscongus from staying busy! This past weekend Dad and I turned a major corner in her rebuild; refastening the entire starboard side. Now that the screws are in place, it's time to put some new cotton and caulking between her 40-year-old white Cedar planks, which are still as strong as the day she was built.

Full Screen!

White Winter

2009-11-09T07:09:00.004-05:00

Winter is officially here; Sarah Mead is under cover and ready for the snow to fly! This year we decided to build a full-blown bow-shed over her so we can really get some work done to her topsides in heated, dry luxury. Improvements this winter include a lot of things you won't be able to see when we're done: a new cabintop deck, new portlights, new keelbolts in the stern, new oakum and aulking below her waterline and, of course, some refastening. Ah, the joy of owning an old wooden boat!

The little tthings ...

2009-10-15T07:21:00.011-04:00

The Sarah Mead is high and dry for the winter, but Randy Williams sure did a great job capturing all the little details of Muscongus this year. Thanks for the great photos, Randy!

A very special passenger

2009-09-16T07:27:00.002-04:00

Lucy Jones, all of three weeks old, went sailing on the Sarah Mead for the very first time last weekend! She was initiated into the activity with a steady breeze and cool temperatures, and even spotted another Friendship Sloop (Gladiator) cruising the bay while she was cruising with her parents and grandparents. It was one of many voyages sure to come in the next few years.

Fall into seasonal sailing

2009-09-03T08:05:00.002-04:00

Labor Day right around the corner means that the 2009 Fall sailing season is about to begin! September usually brings stezady winds, great foliage and wonderful sunsets to Muscongus Bay, come and see for yourself onboard the Sarah Mead - sailing through Labor Day this weekend.

A new crewmember!

2009-08-22T12:53:00.006-04:00

Well, Heather and I (captain Nate) have been learning the ropes of being new parents for about a day and a half. Heather began having contractions at 8 pm on Friday, and her water broke at home around 1130 pm. We checked into the hospital around midnight and after several hours in the birthing tub, in the maternity bed and on the birthing ball, Heather finally gave birth to Lucianne Reed Jones at 959 am on Saturday, August 21, 2009!
Lucy was born at 7 pounds, 13 ounces with a full head of brown hair! She was 21 inches long and has been very vocal about being dressed, being changed and nursing. Heather made it through the 14-hour labor just fine, and is anticipating returning home with Lucy for the first time tomorrow morning.
There are more photos on FaceBook

Beat the heat!

2009-08-17T07:35:00.004-04:00

High temperatures in the forecast have inspired the crew of the Sarah Mead to offer special tours all week long. We will be sailing from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in addition to our normal Thursday - Sunday tours, so call 207-380-5460 and cool off with a drink on the deck of the Sarah Mead!

Sail Muscongus turns 500

2009-08-10T08:32:00.008-04:00

This past weekend we passed the 500 passenger mark! Since 2006, we have enjoyed taking Mainers and "out-of-staters" alike out on Muscongus Bay, and this year has been the busiest yet. Thanks to all of you who have come out with us - some more than once! Whether you've been for a short tour, a half-day excursion or passage to Monhegan, your interest has helped support us and the continuing restoration of the Sarah Mead.

Monhegan!

2009-08-02T18:14:00.011-04:00

Full Screen!
This weekend we travelled to Monhegan Island with some salty passengers who pretty much sailed the Sarah Mead by themselves. Great wind, company and destination!

A good look ....

2009-07-31T13:07:00.004-04:00

A family friend and professional photographer followed us last weekend and got some great shots of the Sarah Mead! There are more to come as he finishes perfecting the images. The Sarah Mead is bound for Monhegan Island this weekend, an all-day excursion that promises to be a lot of fun as long as the weather holds. August is beginning to get busy, so if you want to get onboard this summer be sure to give us a call sooner rather than later.

This makes it all worth while ...

2009-07-30T17:21:00.001-04:00

Hi Capt Randy,
Just wanted to drop a line and let you know what a wonderful sail we had with you last week. After a broken ankle spoiled my sailing capabilities and rain doused other activities, I really felt I deserved a good time finally and had that and then some on our sail.
All three generations of the family (11, 50 and 74 years) had a great time. My mother, veteran of a half dozen windjammer trips, said it was the best sailing trip she had ever been on, totally relaxing. My daughter, who helped raise and lower sails and coil lines, said it was the best part of her trip to Maine. It was the answer to my dream of someday actually sailing a Friendship sloop.
The individual trip was just what I was looking for after too many "cattle car" sailing trips on harbor tours out of Camden. This was a sailer's cruise, but could have been appreciated just as well by someone who just wanted a lovely ride.
Thanks again for providing this wonderful opportunity for a gorgeous day on the water. Capt. Nate, sorry you had to work and missed out!

We will definitely join you again for another trip on the Sarah Mead.

Thanks again,

Bill Eggers
High Falls, NY

We'll be back next year ...

2009-07-22T17:24:00.007-04:00

Full Screen!

Sloop Days 09!

2009-07-21T09:19:00.003-04:00

This year's friendship sloop days were awesome! In addition to marveling at more than two dozen boats that traveled to the event, we were honored to have the real life Sarah Mead aboard for all three races. This year we played our part as the public relations boat, taking two journalists onboard so they could get the best shots. Friday was perhaps the most thrilling day, as the fleet of friendships was joined by a number of tall ships. For more photos check out our Facebook page

A Perfect Window

2009-06-28T12:54:00.002-04:00

Despite the doom-and-gloom forecast, we managed to put some water under Sarah Mead's keel this weekend. With a seasoned sailor onboard and a steady wind out of the southeast, we were able to test our new mainsail on the backside of Louds Island for the first time. About 50 years ago, dozens of Friendship Sloops would plow these same waters during the annual Friendship Sloop Days regatta. The 2009 gathering is just two weeks away, make the drive to Rockland and see these classic wooden boats in action!

We live to fight another day!

2009-06-14T15:55:00.007-04:00

Rain couldn't keep Dad and I from sailing to Damariscotta for the second annual Pirate Rendevouz this weekend. Despite torrential downpours during our trip there on Friday, we arrived in good spirits and went to the local pub to pick up a crew. On Saterday, we set sail with the scurvy dogs aboard the Must Roos and dodged cannonballs on our way to the public pier. We may not have had any cannons aboard (this year) but the pirates aboard the Sarah Mead fired black powder rifles and pistols all the way to the dock, where we sent them ashore to join in the raid. Once the town was sacked and the treasure recovered, we joined in the festivities ashore, taking pride in the fact that a portion of the proceeds from the dowtown businesses would be used to help families in need this winter. Nobody ever said pirates don't have hearts! This year's Pirate Rendevous was a blast (literally) and we'll be back next year.

Shiver your timbers ...

2009-06-11T12:35:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow the Friendship Sloop Sarah Mead sails from her homeport in Muscongus Sound to the Damariscotta River to invade downtown Damariscotta! We will be off the grid for the remainder of the weekend but will let you all know how it went upon our return to Muscongus harbor. Of course, you could always come to town and see just what all the hubbub is about ...

Then, and now

2009-05-31T17:30:00.004-04:00

Despite unruly wind and wave this past weekend, we managed to launch the Sarah Mead for the fourth time since we rescued her. After a day of swelling, Dad and I took her for the first sail of the season to test out a brand new (albeit double reefed) mainsail. Although she looked small with a double reef, the new sail surpassed all of our expectations and Sarah is much closer to a full restoration. Our chartering season starts next week, and we are already gearing up for the Pirate Rendevous in Damariscotta June 13, so make your reservations now!

Sail Muscongus Spring 2009 Newsletter

2009-05-27T08:52:00.001-04:00

Hello from Muscongus Harbor, Maine!

It's been a long, hard winter, but the 2009 sailing season is finally around the corner. This Friday, May 29, the Friendship Sloop Sarah Mead will hit the water for the fourth time since being rescued in 2006.
Our season is scheduled to start with a BANG on June 13, as we will join the crusty crew aboard the MUST ROOS and invade downtown Damariscotta for the 2009 pirate rendevous! We hear the natives can be just as nasty as the boarding parties, but Dad and I are confident the Sarah Mead will hold her own in battle.
Following the pirate rendezvous, we will continue to offer our custom, private cruises to you, your family and friends. Whether you're looking for a quick afternoon sail or an all-day excursion, we'll help coordinate an affordable option for you and your party to get on the waters of Muscongus Bay and beyond. This year we are sailing on our standard tours three times a day, four days a week, Thursday - Friday.
Once July rolls around, the Sarah Mead will make her fourth appearance in Rockland for the Friendship Sloop Days regatta! We may not come in first in the races, but we sure do have fun! This year, as always, we welcome you and your party aboard for the races, an event only a select few see from the starting line.
We hope this letter finds you well and we look forward to seeing you on the water! Feel free to call us anytime, we love talking about boats almost as much as sailing them!

Capt. Nate
207-380-5460

Capt. Randy
207-380-2793

Captains@SailMuscongus.com
WWW.SailMuscongus.com

Almost there...

2009-05-05T11:32:00.003-04:00

We call it the "Ugly Duckling" season. Sarah Mead may not look very good right now, but that's a sure sign that spring is here and the sailing season is about to begin. This year, as always, we are continuing to improve the bottom and topside paint in addition to several structural upgrades. We have started Sarah on a refastening program, installed a new bronze propeller, rebedded the chainplates that hold up her rig and will sport a brand new, more traditionally cut mainsail! Sarah will not only look better in 2010, but should sail more like a traditional friendship sloop.

The season is already beginning to fill up, including an educational trip for a boy scout troop and a trip to Monhegan Island to drop off this year's winner of the 5-week long artist residency there. Hopefully our trip will help inspire the intrepid artist and help spread the word about all the unique things the Maine coast has to offer, including sailing tours onboard an authentic wooden friendship sloop!

It's a boat!

2009-04-26T18:01:00.007-04:00

The shrinkwrap is finally off and we are much closer to setting sail! Today we also installed new bow chocks in the toerail to make docking much easier.

The new fairleads, combined with a shiny propellor, a new mainsail and a refastened starboard side will make the Sarah Mead like a new boat!

We are scheduled to set sail towards the end of May, give us a ring and make your reservation before the season books up.

New and Old Bronze

2009-04-23T07:02:00.002-04:00

This spring the Sarah Mead is getting quite the facelift; we've replaced her propellor, rebolted the chain plates, found a new main sheet block and refastened some planks on the starboard side. While all of these upgrades will certainly make her easier to sail, perhaps the biggest change this season will be a new mainsail. Larger and more traditionally cut, the new sail will nearly complete the 4-year restoration project. Come see it for yourself!

Warmer temps on the horizon

2009-04-16T18:02:00.002-04:00

As always, Dad and I are hard at work this spring to get the Sarah ready to hit the water. In addition to a new propellor and several other structural upgrades, we are going to try sailing in 2009 with a new mainsail! We are launching at the end of
May, so be sure to let us know if you want to come out in June.

Portland Boat Show

2009-03-25T09:16:00.008-04:00

It's a sure sign that warmer weather is on the way! We connected with old friends and got some new ideas for some of Sarah's rigging at this year's show, including a new main sheet block to nail Nate in the head and some bow chocks we can catch our toes in.

Spring is here!

2009-03-19T14:05:00.002-04:00

We've already made our very first reservations for the 2009 sailing season, so call ahead now! We are anticipating a full summer aboard the Sarah Mead and working for Muscongus Marine Services, our new division.
Give us a buzz - 207-380-5460 - and let's catch some wind this summer1

A little taste of New England

2009-01-23T11:20:00.002-05:00

Captain "Chief" Randy continues to enlighten other students during his studies in Florida with interesting knowledge about wooden boats. In addition to horrifying them with tales of woebegone vessels of the past, docks that move up and down with the tide and sails that don't have telltales, he presented this unique tool. Simply press the "Wooden Boat Moisture Reader" to the side of any wooden vessel and it will instruct you to either "Run it," "Paint it," or "Burn it."

Randy goes back to school

2009-01-10T07:42:00.003-05:00

While we're all shoveling out our driveways here in Maine, Captain "Cheif" Randy is enjoying his first few days at the Chapman marine surveying school in Florida. Although he is already familiar with most of the mechanics being taught in the course, when completed he will be a member of the National Association of Yacht Surveyors and accredited with the ABYC. By spring we're hoping to launch Muscongus Marine Services - a "one-stop-boater-shop" offering marine surveys, insurance evaluations, deliveries, winterization and instruction. You've been sailing on the Sarah Mead, now let us help you find the right boat for you and your family!

New crewmember!

2009-01-03T05:43:00.001-05:00

It's looking like there will be a new galley slave aboard the Sarah Mead in August, Captain Nate and his wife Heather are expecting their first! Heather has the whole event logged on her pregnancy blog - link coming soon.

Winter Wonderland

2008-12-23T12:34:00.002-05:00

What a start to the holiday season! Sarah's survived high winds, an ice storm and nearly two feet of snowfall, all before Christmas. This winter is proving to be a long one, but we're staying warm with thoughts of another stellar season ahead of us. Our calendar is short and we're going to be busy, so give us a ring and make your reservation early.

Alas, Goodbye Summer

2008-10-25T10:43:00.005-04:00

The 2008 sailing season is officially behind us. While it is always somewhat depressing to see the Sarah Mead come out of the water for the next six months, Dad and I are proud to say this past season was her best yet. Thanks to a lot of loyal passengers and new faces, close to 500 people from all over the country have been aboard since we began in 2006 - not too bad for a father and son operation!

Being out of the water doesn't mean we're done doing business either, as we are receiving more and more requests for our new gift certificates. Give us a call and we'll send any combination of private charter tickets directly to you or whomever you purchase the tickets for. These make awesome Christmas presents so contact us early so we can make reservations now!

Goodbye Encore, hello Auburn Maine!

2008-10-05T17:51:00.008-04:00

It's official, the Sarah Mead will now be the only sailboat I own. Heather and I are the proud new owners of a 2-story cape in Auburn, where we plan to settle down and start a family in the upcoming months. We couldn't have found better people to inherit the Encore (the boat we've been living on for four years); Ken and Irene are sure to take good care of her and keep Encore's keel plowing the waters of Casco Bay as she has done since 2005.
This weekend Heather and I spent a glorius weekend on Louds Island and took the Sarah for a sail around Louds, Marsh and Hog islands before returning to the rapidly emptying Muscongus Harbor. I am looking forward to meeting a few new passengers and some regular Sail Muscongus frequenters this Columbus Day weekend for what could be the final sail of the season - we do still have some trips available so give us a call before the Sarah is high and dry.
Thanks to Ned Thompson for getting some great shots of the Sarah under sail, including the one below, a tough job for her captains (we're usually onboard).

Captain Nate's Entry for September 23, 2008

2008-09-23T09:04:00.003-04:00

The fall sailing season has arrived! This past summer was stellar, Dad and I cannot thank all who came out enough. Despite my unexpected back problems and some pretty funky weather in August, this past season was our best yet, and we're still going strong! While we will continue to sail the Sarah Mead next season, the Encore has recently been sold and after four years aboard, Heather and I are planning on moving ashore - which should mean I get more time at the wheel next year.
Bottom line: get the kids back in school, pile on the sweatshirts and let's continue to put miles underneath the Sarah Mead until snow flies.

Captain Nate's Entry for August 31, 2008

2008-08-31T16:51:00.009-04:00

This Labor Day weekend 6-month-old Camden Mosher had the first sail of his life! The future swashbuckler enjoyed a windy day on Casco Bay with his parents, Isaiah and Cassie, our friend Julie and my wife and I (Captain Nate). With just the storm jib set we reached speeds upwards of six knots and enjoyed a sunny day on the bay while "Chief" Randy had a stellar weekend in Muscongus at the helm of the Sarah Mead. Don't believe the hype - there's a lot of sailing left in 2008 and we're planning on offering "leaf peeping" trips straight through October! Let us know when you and your family - babies welcome - want to see maine the way it should be - from the deck of a Friendship sloop!

Captain Nate's Entry for August 20, 2008

2008-08-20T09:02:00.008-04:00

We may not have caught any mackerel or lobsters this past weekend, but it was a fun-filled Saterday and Sunday spent enjoying the sunshine! Since the mackeral have moved out, seal sightings have been down but the porpoise still show up regularly and we always make a point to sail by the bald eagle nest on Hog Island. We've been getting lots of calls for daysails and Monhegan Island charters, so if you want to get onboard this month be sure to let us know when you want to see the waters of Muscongus for yourself!

Captain Nate's Entry For August 10, 2008

2008-08-10T21:34:00.007-04:00

August is here, and we've never been busier!
We would like to thank all our passengers - some of whom have been coming back to Muscongus for three years now - for helping us schedule our best season yet. Sarah was barely on her mooring for more than a few hours this weekend, and thanks to you we have put more than 100 miles under her keel this season alone.
This past weekend was particularly busy for me, as I not only enjoyed showing family members the fine art of fishing and lobstering, but managed to join Dad for several trips despite a back problem I developed about two months ago. For more about my injury check out my column here - and don't worry I'm getting it fixed soon. See you on the water!

Friendship Sloop Days 2008!

2008-07-21T17:28:00.006-04:00

For the third year the Sarah Mead made a showing at the Friendship Sloop regatta at Rockland Harbor this year! We met new passengers and friends as well as reconnected with the original owners, the White family and their daughter - the real, live Sarah Mead. Sarah made it safely back to her home waters and we are looking forward to sharing our sea stories with you as August is right around the corner!

Full Screen!

Gear up for Sloop Days!

2008-07-08T11:44:00.003-04:00

It's hard to believe that the 2008 Friendship Sloop Day races are only a week away! This year Dad and I will be sailing Sarah to the Pulpit harbor rendevouz as well as the Rockland homecoming. Last year we enjoyed stiff breezes, warm weather and good company in the races, and came home with the nonprofessional builders award for all the work we put into Sarah. We spotted the friendship sloop Heritage on the waters of muscongus this past weekend, no doubt making her way north to the Southwest Harbor get-together. Come join us in Rockland from the 16 to the 19 for an exhilirating time at the races!

Captain Randy's Entry for July 1, 2008

2008-07-01T08:34:00.002-04:00

Last Thursday morning came and the weather proved to be in our favor as the winds were light out of the South and NOAA was not predicting any rain until the evening. An eager crew of 5 met me on the dock at 8:30 a.m. "Mom" and "Dad" were already on the dock ready to board and get going as I brought the Sarah into the dock. Even though they were both 90, both clammered aboard as if they were only 20, ready to go.
We headed out in search of the wind that was setting up out of the South at 10 knots, as predicted. With a couple of tacks we were outside of Friendship harbor and it was time to return. "Dad" owned a 30 foot ketch with a cutter rig since 1932. His wife was his navigator and a very able sailor as well. I turned the wheel over to "Dad" as we started our reach back to Hog Island. "Mom" found a chart and fell into her old routine as navigator. Sarah turned on the charm and transported the couple back 30 years, with "Dad" at the wheel and "Mom" navigating. Their daughter and her husband quickly became kids up on the bow again. Their granddaughter sat and listened as her family history unfold before her. My place was below – this was their boat . The Sarah had rolled back 30 plus years, no aches or pains no help needed, this family was under sail again and complete. The Sarah was built as a family boat, and clings to that history through our family and all those who take the wheel.

Captain Nate's Entry for June 30, 2008

2008-06-30T12:39:00.005-04:00

The Fourth of July is nearly here, and we're receiving an overwhelming number of calls from return customers from last year. This season is proving to be one of our busiest yet, as we took five passengers – one morning sail for a familiy of four and another for an experienced sailor – this past weekend despite fog and the chance of rain. We all know what the Fourth of July means - finally some summer weather – and we still have openings this weekend, call us quick!

Monhegan or bust!

2008-06-22T20:30:00.018-04:00

The Sarah Mead traveled to Monhegan Island for the first time this weekend. We overcame fog, high winds and becalmed seas on our way to and from the small island 13 miles out at sea. Unfortunately we didn't have any way to get ashore, otherwise we could have rowed to nearby fish beach and met some of the local color. If you think you're up to getting to Monhegan the way they did it a hundred years ago - by wind and oar - make your reservations and we'll bring you out to one of Maine's most unique islands, Monhegan!
See the video of how we got there!

Invaded by Pirates!

2008-06-15T16:06:00.023-04:00

Some local pirates took over the Sarah this weekend! Thankfully they they later agreed to serve as part of the normal crew. We saw bald eagles, seals, porpois and the usual lobsterboats as we curcumnavigated Louds and traversed Muscongus Sound several times. It was a windy, sunny weekend and we enjoyed taking out familiar and new passengers along with longtime friends! We made more reservations for the Friendship Sloop races in Rockland, so if call us soon if you want to join in on the fun in July.

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Captain Nate's Entry for June 7-8, 2008

2008-06-08T18:05:00.010-04:00

Despite fog and the possible rainshower, Dad and I set sail for the first time this year on Saturday and found that Sarah's new jib sets like a dream. We managed to maintain about 5 knots hull speed in 7 knots of wind, pointing close to 15 degrees off the wind. It was foggy and damp but our spirits were high when we reached New Harbor Ledge and decided to turn back. Sunday we had our first passengers of the 2008 season and Dad singlehandedly showed them their way around Muscongus. Read their account here!
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Captain Nate's Entry for May 29 - June 1, 2008

2008-06-02T20:23:00.005-04:00

Captain Nate's Entry for May 26, 2008

2008-05-26T16:34:00.027-04:00

She floats!

For the third time since we found her, the Sarah has been launched without a hitch, and she's never looked better!
In addition to the new paintjob, Sarah is sporting a new rudder, jib and light boards: slowly but surely she's turning into a real work of art. She seemed to sigh with relief upon hitting the water, her seams are barely seeping this year, a very good sign for a boat her age!
While we weren't hooking up sails, touching up bottom paitn or rigging up halyards, we found time to check both of Sail Muscongus' new lobster traps, and brought our first 1.5 pounder home! It made a delicious lobster roll for both Heather and myself on Sunday.
Next weekend Dad and I will take the Sarah on her "shakedown" cruise to clear all the cobwebs ...

Captain Nate's Entry for May 19, 2008

2008-05-19T12:03:00.004-04:00

Sail Muscongus started lobstering this weekend! We put one trap outside Muscongus Harbor and the other off Bulls' Point on Louds Island. Next week we'll see what crawls in! And, after a paint-filled weekend the Sarah is nearly ready to hit the water by this time next week. Dad turned green painting the topsides, Heather demonstrated her artists' touch in repainting the lilywork and incorporating fancy line work down below, and I shouldn't have to worry about any marine growth on my arms for a while. We also finished up the new steering configuration, put chaffe-resistant copper on the mast, repainted the spars and the cabin interior. With just the waterline left to be done, Sarah looks like a new boat! Check us next week for photos of the launch!

Captain Nate's Entry for May 13, 2008

2008-05-13T13:01:00.005-04:00

Last week I was honored to take Greg and his four-year girlfriend Monica out sailing onboard the Encore around Casco Bay. We headed for Peaks and ended up circling around House Island before Greg got down on one knee in the cockpit and asked Monica to marry him. I was relived she said yes, since it would have made a very awkward 45-minute ride back to the dock.
Congratulations lovebirds!

Captain Nate's Entry for May 11, 2008

2008-05-12T14:17:00.002-04:00

Slowly but surely we're putting new paint to newly exposed wood. In prepping the bottom we learned something new about the Sarah: the ballast in the bottom of her keel is solid steel, not lead. After some discussion we decided this was a good thing, since lead can warp and sag. One thing's for sure, Sarah's keelbolts aren't ever going anywhere.
We prepped the entire boat for paint, which we'll apply next weekend. Just two weeks until smooth sailing!

Captain Nates Entry for May 6, 2008

2008-05-12T14:16:00.001-04:00

Well it's official : the Sarah Mead is a boat again.
Dad and I put the new rudder on her this past weekend, and what a project it was! We discovered how to make a rudder crafted nearly 50 miles from it's rudderpost actually fit, then how to round over the various drifts which hold the blade together.
I was surprised to find that the trailing edge of the rudder blade is only held to the main part via drift pins rather than bolts; the pins are angled in such a way to prevent it from sliding off. The swelling of the wood would most likely be enough to hold the pins in place anyway, as we only drilled 1/2 inch holes for the 1/2 inch rods.
We continued to remove what seems like dozens of layers of white and green paint from her topsides and are nearly finished with the port side.
Of course I forgot to bring the camera, but will have photos up after this weekend!

Captain Nate's Entry for April 28, 2008

2008-05-12T14:15:00.005-04:00

Yesterday Dad and I began attacking Sarah's topsides with 5" sanders. We removed nearly all of her green paint to expose the orginal white, which began splitting and peeling beneath the green last summer. In many places we even exposed wood that probably hasn't seen daylight in nearly 60 years.
We've scheduled the launching for May 24, and although it may seem like a long ways away, we're going to have to scramble to have her topsides painted by then.
Hopefully this upcoming weekend we'll bolt on her new rudder and finish her topsides.

Captain Nate's Entry for April 24, 2008

2008-05-12T14:15:00.004-04:00

Yesterday the cat and I had quite a vigorous sail onboard the Encore with the mainsail and the small jib set. In about two hours we made our way well south of Portland Head Lighthouse and if we didn't have to worry about going back we could have made Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth before darktime. As you can see above, things were not stowed properly below before getting underway, but such is the price we pay.
We are already getting many calls to go sailing on the Sarah this summer, although she isn't scheduled to go in the water until Memorial Day weekend!
Don't stop calling, as we always love to talk about warmer weather, and if you really need to get on the water early, I'd be more than happy to introduce you to my first mate, Reeses Pieces (the cat) and we'll take a trip around Casco Bay! The Encore is no Friendship Sloop, but she's as seaworthy as they come.

Captain Nate's Entry for April 21, 2008

2008-05-12T14:02:00.002-04:00

We returned last night from a long weekend opening up the house on Louds Island. The warm weather, stiff breezes and lack of pot bouys made me wish the Sarah was in the water!
In addition to unwrapping the Sarah from her winter bubble, Dad and I cleared several downed trees, lit all the pilots and ran the antifreeze out of the plumbing.
In anticipation of adding a "Workin' man tour" this summer, we put together some lobster traps and made an arrangement for bait as well.
We are already getting calls to go sailing and are looking forward to a stellar summer.

Captain Nate's Entry for April 11, 2008

2008-05-12T14:01:00.002-04:00

Yesterday marked my first single-hand sailing experience of the season aboard the Encore in Casco Bay. We reached Portland Head Lighthouse in about two hours, the GPS clocking our speed at nearly 6 knots with only the smaller of our two jibs set.
It's supposed to rain this weekend, but hopefully Dad and I will make some time to head up to Muscongus and bolt the new rudder onto the Sarah in anticipation of warmer, drier weather

“Chief” Randy's entry for April 9, 2008

2008-05-12T14:00:00.001-04:00

I’m back from Long Boat Key in Florida and I survived the 80+-degree heat. Too bad it snowed while I was gone but someone had to go to Atlantic Sail Traders and buy a new jib sail for the Sarah Mead. I am always amazed at the amount of new and used sails they have on hand. We found the perfect jib for the Sarah Mead and this year we hope to place in the money at Homecoming in Rockland!!!!
As you have read we are replacing the original rudder on the Sarah as it has developed some soft spots over the years. New bearing for the rudderpost and she’ll be ready for another 20 years of sailing. New running lights have also been completed. to replace the off the shelf ones we have been using. It’s all about the details!!!!
It truly is a small world. I met a couple living in Long Boat Key, Fla., who own a home on Monhegan Island, one of our new added destinations. They spend all September on the island and plan on sailing with us the year. Welcome aboard! It seems Mainers can find Mainers anywhere in the world, and the stories start when they connect!
I spent the winter rebuilding several antique cars, a MGB and an Austin Healey. I love those tiny little Brit Bits. I did have the luck to catch some of the Barrett Jackson car Auction on TV and saw a 1958 Chevrolet Impala convertible that we built the engine for sell at $ 100,000 plus!!! A great car at 10MPG!!!! If it is old and needs repair I just fall in love with it.
A note to all our salted crew who crewed with us in years past, we now have T Shirts for sale. They have our logo on the front and a line drawing of the Sarah Mead on the back listing her name and homeport of Muscongus Harbor Maine. They come in green with white lettering or white in green lettering. I know many or you had asked about them, so if you want one send Nate an E-Mail and we’ll get one to you. Or better yet book us and get it in person!!!
This 2008 season looks to be a good year as many of you have contacted us about sailing again. Welcome aboard and welcome back to sailing off the coast of Maine on the Sarah Mead.

Captain Nate's Entry for April 7, 2008

2008-05-12T13:59:00.002-04:00

Randy returned from Florida this week with more luggage than he originally left with! Once again we have struck a deal with Atlantic Sail Traders to update Sarah's rigging with a new sail, this time a Jib.
Odds are if you caught sight of me sitting on the bowsprit last summer I was putting a needle to the old jib, which had pretty much reached the end of its useful life. As you can see in the photo, we often opted to leave the jib furled for fear it would deteriorate further.
The new sail is much bigger than the old one, and should fit the forestay, which we extended when we had the mast made, nicely.
I visited the Sarah on Saturday and began sanding the interior (again) in anticipation of using a special anti-mold paint later in the spring.
There seems to be no end to things we are discovering for the Sarah, as we are also looking forward to new cockpit cushions, pin rails, light boards, bronze mast wraps, pearl beads and more!

Captain Nate's Entry for March 30, 2008

2008-05-12T13:57:00.001-04:00

Today marked the first sail of the season for my wife and I. The 32' fiberglass, fin-keeled Encore seems like a racehorse compared to the 7-ton wooden, full keeled Sarah Mead.
Heather and I kept our eye on the weather all morning and decided to head out around 2 p.m., the wind was chilly, but steady.
The Encore kept me on my toes the whole sail from South Port Marine to Portland Head Lighthouse; sailing with modern technology is quite a shift from the time tested rig of the Sarah.
Hopefully in about a month we can all be aboard the Sarah Mead taking pictures of Louds Island!

Captain Nate's Entry for March 27, 2008

2008-05-12T13:40:00.001-04:00

The sailing season has officially begun, as my wife and I removed the shrinkwrap from our Columbia 32 in South Portland this past week.
It can be a strange shift after living in a bubble for so long, but we are looking foward to going sailing later on this week; temperatures are supposed to hit fifty degrees at last
Next month Dad and I plan on attacking the Sarah's topsides and taking a serious look at options for redesigning suports for the rudderpost and the installation of a new rudder port after we removed the originals over the winter.
We hope a facelift to Sarah's steering will help us hold our own in the Friendship Sloop races next year and add more sensitivity to her handling abilities.
We have hired Micheal Poulliotte in North Berwick to help us get the new rudder ready for the 08 season, an experienced boatbuilder who will no doubt have us ready to hit the water by the end of May!

Captain Nate's Blog for March 24, 2008

2008-05-07T17:22:00.001-04:00

It may not feel like it outside, but spring is here and warmer days are on the way! It's been a busy winter for us at Sail Muscongus!, with Dad enjoying retirement and me finding a new job as a news reporter.We are looking forward to the upcoming sailing season, during which we are planning to offer extended trips to harbors including Boothbay, Rockland, Camden and even Monhegan Island!