Hello from Oakland, CA

[Cal-29]

Hi Cal Community, we are new to boating and recently got a 1974 cal 29. We plan on sailing south to Mexico in Early November and have lots of maintenance, repairs, and replacing to do. At the moment just trying to learn the yanmar 2gm20f Diesel engine and do simple projects like oil changes, figure out how to access parts like heat exchanger, thermostat, exhaust elbow etc to see the state they’re in and what needs work. Also looking for some good used sails. Not sure the exact size of the sails we need but definitely a better jib and possibly a mainsail too. Trying to figure out a navigation system that’s maybe all in one, or at least all by the same company so it works together: chart plotter, gps, radar reflector. An inflatable dinghy that possibly acts as a life raft as well? Not sure how people feel about combining the two. I wanted to go with a steerless windvane but it’s a little out of our budget so probably getting an automatic steering tiller and if possible a flexible solar panel system. Not sure where the panels would go. Thoughts on easy solar setup? Sorry if this long list doesn’t belong on intro, can move if needed, but that’s what we’re working on and would love any recommendations.

[Mary Mac]

Welcome! I replied to your PM. We should meet up sometime when the smoke clears. I drive my dinghy to visit friends at Jack London often.

[rcvesselstyn]

Good to have you aboard. You might try and get a copy of the box wine sailors. It makes a decent read, and it covers some of the territory you're going to be dealing with. Also if you're new to sailing I would recommend Earl Hinz books. He's got some great ones on anchoring and how to handle tough weather. Some of his travel information In Sail Before Sunset is a bit dated since he wrote it when we were all sailing in the 70s. But he was good knowledgeable guy and seamanship never goes out of date. Besides reading the big trick is to get the boat out and use it as much as you can. Practice anchoring and setting out a sea anchor, don't let your trip be the first time you try any maneuver. If the boat isn't perfect all the better. Things will fail ,it's inevitable, it's better to know how to deal with the failures before you go. It sounds like you're on the way to a great adventure. Smooth sailing!

[Cal-29]

Rcvesselstyn- good call on the books I will check it out, have learned a ton from some sailing adventure books by John kretchmer and could use more. Yes, anchoring has been a little stressful and definitely spent a sleepless night thinking the boat would drift off, but looking forward to getting the hang of it

[hewell]

With regard to anchoring, you can get an app for your smartphone that will sound an alarm if your boat moves more than a specified distance from where you set it. I use Anchor Watch.
Harleigh
Cal 31
Annapolis area