Boated Most Popular

Savvy MT.Net readers might have noticed a few nautically-themed pictures in the gallery. There was also this post of lyrics to a sailing-themed song. Putting two and two together might lead you to guess that we’ve been looking at buying a boat. And you’d be right. On our “date day” two weekends ago, Kelly and I drove down Leesville Road from the stables to Lake Crabtree for some sailing. We passed this boat with a “for sale” sign on it and decided to have a closer look at it once we were done sailing. While Kelly waited in the car, I spent 5 minutes walking around it taking pictures.

The next day I called the owner, who proceeded to talk my ear off about the boat. He was sailing it because his family was growing to three kids and could no longer fit on it. I made arrangements for Ralph, my sailing mate, to take a look at it with me, which he did tonight. Soon after returning home and discussing it with Kelly, we made the decision to buy it.

It’s a 1985 Spindrift 22, similar to this one. It has a trailer, plenty of room for the family, sink, stove, motor, marine radio, and cd player. And its in great shape. Ralph was really impressed with its condition, which gave me comfort.

I’ve been sailing for sixteen years but this is the first boat I’ve ever owned. Things are a bit different when you’re the owner. Kelly and I both have a lot to learn about its care and feeding, though the sailing part should be a cinch.

We’re imagining a future where we spend weekends with the kids sailing around. I think early exposure to sailing will open up whole worlds for our kids. Hallie is excited about it and I know Travis will love it, too.

Once we’ve got it ready to go I’ll be happy to take MT.Net readers out for a cruise. Ahoy!