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| TMCA Spring Fling Docker Dudes mooring Corrival |
Corrival made her first extended offshore passage on May 18, 2012. She sailed from Galveston to Freeport, Texas to participate in the annual Spring Fling hosted by the
Texas Mariners Cruising Association. Close to 150 sail and power boats made the 70 nautical mile trek from Clear Lake and Galveston. Upon arrival, we were met by the wonderful TMCA Spring Fling Docker Dudes. That evening, we were treated to a BBQ dinner and live music.
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| Corrival in Freeport with flags waiving |
We were in Freeport for three days, and TMCA had something fun, interesting, relaxing, or educational to do each day. On the second day they offered several classes such as medical treatment for sailors, air conditioning, and VHF/DCS/AIS integration, just to name three. That afternoon, the Coast Guard demonstrated a helicopter rescue by dropping a rescue swimmer right in front of Corrival. Afterward, the Coast Guard helicopter crew joined a boat crew for questions and answers.
The good folks from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United State Power Squadron provided free
Vessel Safety Checks. Their web site says there are at least 15 reasons why a vessel might not pass a safety check; but Corrival passed with flying colors!
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| Vessel Safety Check inspection sticker. |
If you've read her history, you know Corrival is a Hurricane Ike survivor who was one day away from being scuttled by her previous owner. When we bought her, she was in very sad shape, though structurally sound. It has taken innumerable hours and careful attention to all the regulations to get her back in shape. Passing the Vessel Safety Check was an enormous accomplishment that I am very proud of.
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| Sunrise in the ICW |
After a terrifically enjoyable stay in Freeport, it was time to head back to home port. We decided to return via the Inter Coastal
Waterway. What a relaxing ride! We passed by marshes and bird sanctuaries, and traversed small lakes along the winding path. It was quiet, still, and serene just skimming along the water hardly making a sound. We made it back to Clear Lake in record speed, averaging 6 knots under a combination of sail
and motor.
An amazing trip! Can't wait for next year!
