In the 2016 Salty Dawg Fall Rally to the Caribbean, 81 vessels departed on a 1,400 mile voyage across the Atlantic from Hampton, VA to the Bitter End Yacht Club in Virgin Gorda, B.V.I.. This was once again the largest rally from the U.S. to the Caribbean. Mild winds led to some sailing and motor sailing early-on for the first group of vessels that chose to leave on November 1st. A short period of 25 to 30 knot winds from the north, followed by good winds in the teens to low 20’s gave nice sailing for the fleet in the middle of the trip, and then a mix of variable winds and moderate trades for the final couple of days to the Caribbean. It was a nice weather period and overall a comfortable passage. The second half of the fleet chose to delay departure until Saturday November 5th due to possible strong N and NE winds on the back side of an approaching front that slower vessels might experience. The second group of vessels experienced more consistent winds, and also had a very favorable and timely passage.
Chris Parkers’ weather forecasting, courtesy of Blue Water Sailing Magazine, as usual was spot on, and the full fleet appreciated his sage advice. After arrival owners and crew transitioned to an active Salty Dawg social calendar of regular happy hours, morning yoga, a daily morning net of Dawgs helping other Dawgs, hiking, snorkeling, a superb and entertaining Arrival Dinner November 18th at the Bitter End Yacht Club, and a pot-luck Thanksgiving on the beach.
The Fall Rally and follow-on activities once again have met the high standards of Salty Dawg Rallies and events, with solid management, sound preparation, extensive offshore planning, world class weather forecasting and routing, broad communication nets, expert assistance, fun, camaraderie and lasting friendships.
The Salty Dawg Sailing Association hosts several rallies, numerous rendezvous’, and a series of blue water sailing seminars, and offers memberships in the Association for those interested in blue water sailing. Over 1,900 sailors and 480 boats have participated in Salty Dawg Rallies, and over 1,300 sailors subscribe to notification of Salty Dawg events. Go to www.saltydawgsailing.org to learn more about the Association and to join this active organization of sailors.
