2009 NAPA CRUISE - MARCH 26-29, 2009
by
Cathy Robie
Eleven Nordic Tugs enjoyed lovely Spring weather at the Napa Valley Yacht Club during our March Napa Cruise.
Those who cruised up the Napa River from various Bay, Delta and Monterey home ports were: Apollo (Bob Lee & Pat Borison), Emiko (Cal & Cathy Robie), FPT Eternity (Bud Sheble), Hoot (Shep & Nancy Jenks), Jeanne Marie III (John & Mary Muff), Luna Sea (Richard & Kathy Smith), Miss T (Bill & Doris Anne Hill), Orion (Steve, Jean, Paul & Kevin Cuff), Three Jeans (Scotty & Carol Scott), Riley (Jim & Charmaine Moore), and Toot! (Jim & Patti Womble). ! Wayne & Linda Farris were unable to bring Buoy Toy, but Wayne joined us for a few hours on Friday. Vince & Pam Meyer were unable to bring Tugzilla, but they joined us for dinner on Saturday. Many thanks to Jim Moore for coordinating and leading the docking and line-handling, bringing all the boats in without incident!
Less than a mile from Napa, the NVYC proved a great location from which to pursue walks, bike rides, trolley rides around town, and exploring intriguing shops. Warm evening weather allowed us to enjoy cocktails and conversation on the dock both Thursday and Friday evenings. Later Friday evening, we gathered in small groups aboard "host boats" for dinner and story-sharing.
NVYC's new deck provided a sunny venue for our traditional BBBB on Saturday morning. With guidance from Pam Sheble, who was unable to join Bud on the cruise, Kathy & Richard Smith provided all the ingredients and coordinated the breakfast with Bud, while others pitched in with all the needed equipment. Great job Kathy, Richard & Bud!
NVYC graciously opened their clubhouse Saturday evening for a California wine and cheese tasting, followed by a buffet dinner provided by NVYC's galley crew, Clyde & Kathy Smith.
With hopes of returning soon, we departed early Sunday. Though we ultimately went our separate ways, not one of us had an uninteresting trip home!
Respectfully submitted,
Cathy Robie