On July 27, 2017, the writer of Luna Log, entry #76 embarked on a voyage along the lower Columbia River by sail and oar in a 12′ cruising dinghy termed as “LUNA”. The dinghy was designed by magazine project advisor John Welsford and is referred to as a SCAMP. The journey took a total of 4 hours and 7 minutes and spanned across 8.96 nautical miles. The average speed of travel was recorded at 2.17 kts, with a maximum speed of 6.03 kts.
Posted by Dale Simonson on 2017-09-06 23:16:37
This entry in the “Luna Log” details a voyage along the lower Columbia River in the author’s 12′ cruising dinghy named “Luna.” The boat is a John Welsford-designed SCAMP (Small Craft Advisor Magazine Project). The log notes the author’s progress, including welcoming Sough to Bernie Slough and Slough to Clifton Channel. The journey took place on July 27, 2017, starting at 10:11 AM and ending at 1:00 PM for a total time of 1 hour and 36 minutes. The distance traveled was 3.72 NM or nautical miles, with an average speed of 2.3 knots and a maximum speed of 7.13 knots.
Posted by Dale Simonson on 2017-09-06 23:15:12
Voyaging on the lower Columbia River by sail and oar in a 12-foot cruising dinghy named “LUNA” is a unique and exciting experience. “LUNA” is a John Welsford-designed SCAMP (Small Craft Advisor Magazine Project) with a shallow draft, which makes it ideal for navigating the river’s complex waterways.
The SCAMP was built with plywood and epoxy and is equipped with a 50-square-foot spritsail and a 20-square-foot jib. It is also equipped with oars allowing for the option of rowing. The boat’s small size allows for easy maneuverability and maneuvering in the tight spaces found on the river.
The lower Columbia River, located on the west coast of the United States, stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the Bonneville Dam. The area offers breathtaking scenery and has an interesting history. The river runs through the Columbia River Gorge, a spectacular canyon that is known for its waterfalls, towering cliffs, and impressive rock formations.
When voyaging on the lower Columbia River by sail and oar, one can expect to encounter a wide array of wildlife. Bald eagles, ospreys, seals, and sea lions are just a few of the creatures that can be spotted. The river is also home to a variety of fish, including salmon and steelhead.
In addition to the natural beauty and wildlife, the lower Columbia River has a rich and complex history. Native Americans have lived in the region for thousands of years, and their influence is still felt today. The area was also an important part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the early 1800s.
When sailing and rowing on the lower Columbia River, it is important to be aware of the strong currents and winds that are often encountered. The river’s tides can also be unpredictable, making navigation challenging at times. However, with careful planning and preparation, a voyage on the lower Columbia River by sail and oar can be an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, voyaging on the lower Columbia River by sail and oar in a 12-foot cruising dinghy is a unique and exciting way to experience the beauty and history of this majestic river. “LUNA,” the John Welsford-designed SCAMP, is the perfect vessel for navigating the river’s complex waterways and encountering the abundant wildlife that calls the lower Columbia River home. With careful planning and preparation, a voyage on the lower Columbia River by sail and oar is a memorable adventure that should not be missed.
Posted by Dale Simonson on 2017-09-06 23:15:50
This content is about a sailing adventure on the lower Columbia River by sail and oar in a 12-foot cruising dinghy named LUNA. LUNA is a John Welsford-designed SCAMP (Small Craft Advisor Magazine Project). The author chronicles their journey and shares their experiences with readers.
The author begins by explaining the purpose of their trip – to explore the lower Columbia River in a small boat with minimal gear. They mention the challenges and risks associated with sailing in small boats, such as the unpredictable weather conditions, strong currents, and narrow channels. Despite these challenges, the author decides to embark on their journey, hoping to gain a deeper understanding of the river and the local environment.
The first leg of their journey takes them from Cathlamet to Skamokawa. They describe the sights and sounds of the river, including wildlife sightings and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. They also explain the importance of navigation and communication when sailing in such a small boat.
The author then recounts their journey from Skamokawa to Altoona. They describe the challenges of sailing against strong currents and battling headwinds. However, they also mention the joy of sailing with the wind at their backs and the thrill of riding the waves. They also share their encounters with local fishermen and their appreciation for the kindness and generosity extended to them during their journey.
The final leg of their journey takes them from Altoona back to Cathlamet. The author shares their thoughts on the importance of solo sailing and the freedom it provides. They also express their gratitude for the experiences and lessons they gained during their journey.
Overall, the author conveys their love for sailing and the beauty of the lower Columbia River. They share their passion for small boats and encourage others to embark on their own sailing adventures. The content is engaging and informative, providing readers with an inside look at the joys and challenges of sailing in a small boat.
Posted by Dale Simonson on 2017-09-06 23:14:24
The author recounts their experience of voyaging on the lower Columbia River in a 12-foot cruising dinghy named “LUNA”. The dinghy was a John Welsford-designed SCAMP, which stands for Small Craft Advisor Magazine Project. The author admits to being confused about directions while on the river due to various factors such as tidal flows and the lack of a reliable compass.
Despite these challenges, the author enjoyed their journey on the river navigating the different waterways using a combination of rowing and sailing. The author describes the scenery and wildlife encountered on the river, including bald eagles, sea lions and different types of fish. They also interacted with other sailors, some of whom gave helpful advice on navigating the river.
The author concludes their narrative by describing how they felt a sense of accomplishment and adventure after completing their journey on the river. They urge others to try similar adventures and explore the outdoors in an eco-friendly way.
Posted by Dale Simonson on 2017-09-06 23:11:29