Voyaging on the Lower Columbia River by sail and oar in a 12-foot cruising dinghy known as “LUNA,” which was designed by John Welsford for Small Craft Advisor Magazine Project (SCAMP), is a fulfilling and relaxing experience. The Oregon and Washington shorelines of the Columbia River create a picturesque view that makes the journey even more enjoyable. With the ability to sail or row, it is easy to make progress in either calm or windy weather.
The LUNA is a remarkable dinghy that is quick to set up and easy to launch. One of the strengths of the boat is its versatile design, which allows for a comfortable ride while cruising on the river. LUNA was designed to be single-handed, which means that it can be operated by one person. But, following the manufacturer’s instructions, it is also possible to carry two people, provided they are not too heavy.
The boat’s waterline length is 11’6″, and the overall length is 12’6″. It is 4’8″ at the beam, and the draft is only 5″. With such a shallow draft, the boat can access areas that other boats cannot. Its mast is 15’8″, and it has a sail area of 77 square feet. The sail and mast are easy to set up and take down, and the boat is ready to sail within an hour of assembly.
The lower Columbia River is not only beautiful, but it is also historically significant. The river was used extensively by Lewis and Clark during their expedition to the Pacific. The river also has a significant economic impact on the region, including supporting agriculture, transportation, and fishing. The Columbia River not only provides a great way to explore the region but also a unique opportunity to learn about its history and importance.
The LUNA is an excellent boat for exploring the Columbia River because it is versatile and has the ability to sail or row. Rowing the boat can be a pleasurable experience when the wind dies down, and it is great exercise. The boat’s design makes it easy to row, and the oars are light and easy to maneuver.
The LUNA’s sail is large enough to provide good speed, but it is not so big that it is hard to handle. The sail and mast are light and easy to manage, making them great for solo sailors. The LUNA is also quick to tack, which makes it easy to navigate through tight spots in the river.
The LUNA’s cockpit is spacious, offering enough room to sit comfortably and move around while sailing. The boat’s design also provides excellent stability, which makes it comfortable and safe, even in choppy waters. The boat’s keel and rudder provide good balance, and the boat is easy to steer in any direction. Even when the boat is heeling over, it remains stable and manageable.
The Lower Columbia River offers some of the best views in Oregon and Washington, and it is the perfect place to explore with the LUNA. The river provides a quiet and serene setting that makes the journey more enjoyable. The river is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and seals, which can be seen from the boat.
However, it is essential to keep in mind that boating on the Columbia River can be challenging, especially for those who are not familiar with the river. There are strong currents, and the weather can change quickly, which can make it difficult to navigate. Therefore, it is important to have a good understanding of the river and its surroundings before setting out on a voyage.
Before voyaging on the Lower Columbia River by sail and oar in the LUNA, it is important to have the necessary safety equipment. The boat must have personal flotation devices for everyone on board, as well as a throwable flotation device. The boat must also have an anchor, a whistle or horn, navigation lights for night sailing, and a fire extinguisher.
While the LUNA is well-suited for exploring the Columbia River, it is important to remember that the boat is not suitable for open ocean voyages or extremely rough water conditions. It is also important to be aware of the tides, as the Columbia River is a tidal river, and it is essential to have proper equipment and knowledge to navigate these conditions.
In conclusion, voyaging on the Lower Columbia River by sail and oar in a 12-foot cruising dinghy known as “LUNA,” designed by John Welsford for the Small Craft Advisor Magazine Project (SCAMP), is a highly fulfilling and relaxing experience. The boat’s versatile design allows for comfortable cruising and makes it easy to sail or row, depending on the conditions. The Lower Columbia River provides a serene and scenic setting that is historically significant and rich in wildlife. However, it is important to have a good understanding of the river and its surroundings, as the weather and currents can be challenging. With proper safety equipment, such as personal flotation devices, an anchor, navigation lights, and fire extinguisher, voyaging on the LUNA is a safe and enjoyable way to explore the Columbia River.
Posted by Dale Simonson on 2017-09-06 23:13:00