Cleat Cruise Report

Last weekend’s fog may have been a downer for Big Boat sailors, but a group of Sausalito sailors upped anchor and headed for China Camp on the annual Cleat Cruise. Doug Workmaster sent us the following report:

"The Cleat Cruise, started in the ’70s by Sausalito sailors, is always filled with music, laughter, and great views. This year’s fleet consisted of about a dozen boats ranging in size from Suzi Q’s 38-ft Marbara down to my Ranger 23 Rigel. Tom List, one of the event’s founders, joined in with the sweetest little tugboat under his command.

"This year’s Cruise Commodore, Bruce Allen of the Mariner 31 Gitana Vela, gave everyone in the fleet a striking blue burgee with a golden cleat, which we all proudly flew.  The park’s docent and one of China Camp’s original residents, Frank Quan, graciously allowed our beach party to continue into the night — normally a no-no — with Jody Boyle and Tom List pumping out some foot-stompin’ beat, as well as some bawdy sea chanties, on guitar and fiddle.

"The rough edges we all felt the next morning were smoothed over by Karen Metzner’s full bacon, eggs, and biscuits and gravy breakfast. Moderate winds and well-timed tides in both directions made for one of the most pleasant San Pablo crossings I’ve ever made. Can’t wait for next year!"