Sunny November Sailing in Monterey

Over the weekend we were invited down to Monterey Bay for a sail aboard the Farr 53 Atalanta with Shearwater Sailing. The weather was perfect: 75 degrees, plenty of sunshine, and light, variable breeze, though we did have to head offshore to find enough to fill the sails. A few humpback whales even joined the sail, cruising alongside for a while.

Those of you who call San Francisco Bay home might remember Atalanta from the St. Francis Yacht Club, where she occupied a prime slip in front of the club for 25 years. In 2020, Atalanta was acquired by Kevin Wasbauer, who undertook a major restoration, upgrading and replacing nearly all of the boat’s systems: rigging, hydraulics, windows, canvas, electrical, lifelines, electronics, rudder bearing, steering systems, and deck hardware. She is right at home on Monterey Bay and is now the proud flagship of Shearwater Sailing.

Shearwater Sailing is Monterey Bay’s newest charter outfit, but is hoping to offer different types of charters than just your typical daysails and sunset cruises, though those are available too. Kevin is planning to offer a range of trips and experiences, from multiday offshore trips to multiweek trips down the coast.

During our sail, Bay Area sailor William Pryor took some great drone footage, which really showcases this beautiful boat in action.

As the days grow shorter and winter looms, the weekend was a great reminder of why this is such a lovely time of year to sail in Northern California. The weather is warm and the winds are mild, and we hope you will enjoy some of this special season.

If you do get out sailing, don’t forget to send your photos to be included in our next edition of Sailagram. Email photos to [email protected].