Monday Westerly

[LeopardSkin]

For the first time in my life, there was no bad-ass chop at Locarno. From the shore, the wind was difficult to read due to diminished whitecaps. The swell was over 6' high (3' Hawaiian) with nice smooth water in between. A bit gusty, but enough for polesmurfing on a 105 litre FSW, 24 cm fin, and 5.0 3-batten wave sail.

At the end of the day, the hovercraft & heli were there because a boat overturned. Unfortunately there was one fatality.

[Mike]

Unfortunately there was one fatality.

That's terrible news!!

[Dellis]

How do you know if there is wind at Cates park?

[Brian C]

Cates Park is tricky because there are no wind gauges or webcams nearby. However it generally works on a strong westerly or southwesterly. That said, I would only consider it for foiling (windsurf or wing). It’s not strong enough for windsurfing and there is no room for safe kite launching.
The locals launch from the boat ramp and then work upwind to above the barges where the wind is best. It tends to have flatwater which is great for cruising and learning transitions. I have only sailed there once but look forward to winsurf foiling there again.

[Cathulu]

Looks like y'all had a great time!
Terrible about the fatality. Thinking it is now getting too cold for me... I am in hibernation until planned Baja trip in January.

[Dellis]

Thanks for the info on Cates park.

[Slappy]

Keep in mind the current can get quite strong off of Cates Park.

I believe Indian arm also gets a thermal in the summer that can reach as far as Cates Park as well.

[Brian C]

Re current at Cates Park: yes, I was warned by a local that it is important to head upwind right after you launch, in order to stay above the point. They said the wind is poor and the current can be a problem off the point. Best to “slog-point” if necessary, rather than head downwind to get planing/flying right away.
Also, I think summer thermals can push into that portion of Indian Arm. I was paddling further downwind this June and wished I had my sailing gear!