6/20/2019 from Cape Canaveral, Florida to Annapolis, Maryland on a Westsail
OPO E-Mail # 19-46 OPO member, OPOOPO would like two crewmembers to sail with him aboard his Westsail 42 “Willow” from Cape Canaveral Florida to Annapolis, Maryland. OPOOPO would like to leave at the later part of June. If crew are based out of Annapolis or somewhere on the Chesapeake he would be willing to pay for airfare. OPOOPO is willing to break this trip up into two legs. If he gets crew who can sail from Cape Canaveral to Charleston he would take another crew from Charleston to Annapolis. He thinks the trip should take about 6 days. Interested crew can e-mail OPOOPO at XXXXX@XXXX
 |
1/19/2019 from De Navidad, Mexico to Panama City then Transit of Canal on a Trawler
OPO e-mail # 18-130 I spoke with OPOOPO on the phone today and he is a very nice man. He contacted us because his friend who he will be buddy boating wit also called to get a crew from us so you will have a small Flotilla of two boats and a nice itinerary to boot. This is not a forced march delivery, but a please trip that you are welcome to join. The trip is free with onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat and also have money for shore side activities. As we like to say him wants you to join him not adopt you. The Krogen 48 is a very nice trawler type boat. You will have your own cabin. If interested please contact him with a brief sailing resume and your contact info to OPOOPO him e-mails: they presently living on our vessel most of the year and at our home in New Orleans, LA the remainder of the year. We’ve been boating together in one form or another for over 30 years. We are looking forward to celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary next March. This is clearly one of those situations where this long distance voyaging is more my dream than Jan’s though she has certainly enjoyed our years on the water. I’m a lucky guy. We’ve owned Figment (our Kadey Krogen 48NS) for 8 years. She was in Seattle when we purchased her. Though we lived in IL at the time, we just started cruising from Seattle. In the intervening years we’ve made two trips to Alaska, a circumnavigation of Vancouver Is, and several cruises into British Columbia. In 2017 we headed down the west coast and arrived in La Paz, MX in late Nov. We participated in the 2017 CUBAR rally from San Diego to La Paz. We’ve spent 2018 cruising in the Gulf of California and working our way to the present location of Barra De Navidad, MX. Most of our boating experience is power though I’ve done a bit of sailing on the Great Lakes. Prior to our purchase of Figment I crewed a 53 Viking from Chicago to Ft Lauderdale and return. I was responsible for the navigation on those runs - back in the early days of Loran. I also helped bring a boat south from Ketchikan, AK to Seattle. Over the years we’ve attended numerous educational programs including US Power Squadron programs. Information about our vessel: Figment is a 1997 (hull 8) Kadey Krogen 48 North Sea model with full walk-around main deck configuration. We are the fourth owners. She is a very sea kindly, full displacement hull with full keel and great prop and rudder protection. She is also very livable with two cabins, two heads, well equipped galley, comfortable salon, separate pilot house, and upper bridge. Our guest will have use of the mid-ship cabin with head (including shower) across the hall. This head also contains the clothes washer/dryer. Figment is well equipped with 6 person life raft, ditch bag, medical supplies, AED, spares, maintenance supplies, and tools. She has satellite based SMS communication resources and we are in the process of purchasing an Iridium Go to add satellite voice communications along with a more robust weather information resource. Other relevant info - • Active stabilization - ABT Trac • Single engine CAT 3208NA with ~6700 hrs • NL 12KW generator • AB 13’ aluminum rib with 40hp Evinrude • Foldable inflatable with 4hp Evinrude • Kayaks - 2 sit in models Our cruising plans: • We will return to Figment on Jan 19, 2019 o Figment is presently in Marina De La Navidad, Barra De Navidad, MX o The closest airport is Manzanillo (ZLO) • About Jan 23rd or 24th we plan to depart Barra De Navidad continuing SE • From Barra De Navidad we’ll be buddy boating with a 43’ Nordhavn which will be operated by the owning couple and a third person • During the following 2-3 weeks we’ll travel to Huatulco, MX where our buddy boat owners will return to their home Feb 09-16; in their absence we’ll hang out in the area along with the remaining member of their crew • About the third week of Feb we’ll cruise to Chiapas, MX • We’ll then clear out of MX and head to Marina Papagayo in Costa Rica as soon as weather permits • Our buddy boat owners and Jan and I will then return to the US Mar 09 - 16, 2019 • Upon our return we’ll cruise through CR and into Panama with plans to arrive Panama City late Mar to early Apr to get measured and schedule a Panama Canal transit on Apr 20-21. • Ports we expect to visit along the way (with local airport code) o Ixtapa-Zihuantanejo (ZIH) o Acapulco (ACA) o Huatulco (HUX) o Chiapas (Tapachula TAP) o Liberia area of Costa Rica (LIR) o Golfito o Panama City (PTY) Observations on the above cruise plan: This is an aggressive schedule with weather management being important and leaves little time for hanging around in a particular location no matter its appeal. While not yet formally engaged, we’re planning to retain the services of Marine Wx Center (Chris Parker and team) to assist with wx decisions. I’ve had communications with Chris. Our daughter, son-in-law, and two young granddaughters will be joining us for the Panama Canal transit. In addition to them we’ll need 2 - 3 line handlers. Our guest can certainly participate in the PC transit though he will lose the use of the mid cabin when our children arrive. We have additional sleeping accommodations in the Pilot House and Salon settees to accommodate others such as the line handlers. We expect to be hanging around in Panama City (Marina Vista Mar) for a couple weeks post measure, pending the canal transit. During our absence from Figment in Marina Papagayo, Costa Rica we are certainly open to our guest being joined by another party if they wish to remain on Figment while we return to the US. Given the duration of this cruise it may well be more practical to have different guests join us back to back. This is the approach Blessed is using with a change occurring in Costa Rica - I think. What we are offering/seeking: Reflecting on my earlier years when I was seeking cruising experiences I think this is exactly what we can offer. We eat well. We also work fairly hard. I’ve often joked with friends that most folks don’t realize how hard one has to work if they want to play seriously. We also relax and enjoy the journey. We would like a guest to help with the general operation of the vessel, to be able to stand watch including at night. We will have to deal with long lines and similar obstructions such as unlit pangas along the route. We don’t expect our guest to have decades and hundreds of hours of experience. However, we do expect him to be situationally aware and to have sound familiarity with vessel operations such that he can identify when something isn’t normal. It is very important that he knows when to wake an off-watch person to assist if he isn’t in a position to resolve the matter. Our guest must have acquired the ability to manage motion sickness. He will likely need to perform engine room checks. Spanish language fluency (spoken) is a significant plus. Our guest should be a non-smoker. We are an alcohol free zone during vessel operation.
|
5/25/2019 from Martinique to New York on a Swan 60
OPO E-Mail # 19-45 OPOOPO the Captain of OPOOPO a Swan 60 is looking for crew to sail with him from Martinique to OPOOPO He would like to depart May 25th from Martinique.
He writes that the boat is in excellent shape. It was recently refitted with new rigging, safety gear, navigation system and sails. This is an 1800 mile trip and should take 2-3 weeks. Sailors can join him in Martinique between May 21st and 25th, or in St. Martin around May 27th or in Bermuda for the next leg the first week in June. He asks for experienced crew who can stand a watch. Onboard expenses are covered. Crew is responsible for their transportation to and from the boat. If interested contact Christiaan by e-mail. XXXXX@XXXX
|
5/23/2019 from San Juan Puerto Rico to Annapolis MD on a Swan 56
OPO e-mail # 19-44 Boat owner OPOOPO is looking for one more crew to help sail his Swan 56 from OPOOPO to Annapolis MD. They plan to depart May 23rd and the passage will take about 7 - 9 days in total. Jeff has a pro full time skipper so does not need highly experienced crew, but some offshore sea time would be nice. Boats fully equipped for safety and very well maintained boat. Jeff e-mails:
“Experience can me minimal to good, maybe someone younger wanting off shore sail time?”
The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail Jeff with your sailing resume at XXXXX@XXXX
PS: Since this was short notice I did not ask who else would be aboard, how many crew and what their experienced level is, so you might want to ask. All OPO members know the Swan brand and we are confident this is a very good opportunity for an OPO member.
HS
|
5/18/2019 from Red Hook St. Thomas to Little Creek Virginia on a Swan 53
OPO e-mail # 19-42 Pro skipper OPOOPO is sailing a Swan 53 back from St. Maarten with us. We get home next weekend and then OPOOPO will fly back to the Caribbean to deliver an Outbound 52 from American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook St. Thomas to Little Creek Virginia just inside the bridge/tunnel. This is where our Chesapeake NARC Fleet departs from. He is looking for two or three crew.
I delivered this boat myself a few years back when the regular delivery skipper could not make the passage. He again ran out of time so we have passed the delivery to OPOOPO . This is a very strong center cockpit ocean going boat. Most people are familiar with the Outbound 44 or 46 which is a very well thought out boat. Outbound tried to make a go of the 52, but they did not sell many. But she is a very easy ride and a nice boat.
OPOOPO will fly down Monday May 20th and plans to depart by the 22nd. The passage will take about 10 days but add a couple of days just in case of headwinds or a delayed departure. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO at XXXXX@XXXX If you e-mail after Monday we will be at sea, but Jackie, OPOOPO ’s wife will check his e-mail and help make plans with crew until OPOOPO arrives in Newport on Friday or Saturday this week.
|
5/2/2019 from St. Maarten to Newport on a Swan 53
OPO e-mail # 19-35 I just got this e-mail today which was sent late last night. It is an opportunity to sail on a Swan 53 from St. Maarten to Newport in our Swan Program. Since the crew had to bail and he has paid for your trip, the trip is free and he has offered to pay up to $500 airfare for a replacement crew that you will read about in the e-mail he sent me.
The skipper is our most popular skipper OPOOPO . He arrives Wednesday and the other 4 crew arrive Thursday and Friday. You can arrive Thursday or even Friday since we depart on Saturday May 4th. We like to have 6 crew in total to run proper 2 person watches, but can go with 5 crew, but why not give this berth away to a deserving OPO member. Preference will be given to the crew who can pay his own travel so the OPO member who had to cancel does not have to pay another $500 on top of the money he has already lost. If interested please e-mail me tonight (include your resume) and I will check e-mail tomorrow mid-morning to give you an answer so you can start to get ready by noon tomorrow. The cancelling crew and I look forward to hearing from potential crew very soon.
Hank
“Can you call me please? I have some bad news.
I've developed a case of sciatica. My sciatic nerve running from my lower back to my left foot is being impinged by an extruded disc along my spine. This causes great pain, constantly, and there is no comfortable position, lying down and sitting are the worst. This just started Saturday morning, and it's getting worse.
I have to bow out of the trip. I'm willing to pay reasonable travel expenses for replacement crew up to $500. I don't know what else I can do. I'm very sorry to do this to you, I feel very badly about canceling, I was really looking forward to the trip.
Please let me know what else I can do.
I'm so sorry.”
|
4/21/2019 from Key West Florida to Newport RI on a Swan
OPO e-mail # 19-28 Pro skipper and boat owner OPOOPO is looking for two experienced crew to help sail his Baltic 47 named Masquerade from OPOOPO to Newport. This is the end of Andrew’s winter season before he sails back to his home port of Newport RI. In fact he is on his way to Cuba and will not have wi-fi between April 14th to 19th when he gets back. He lost two crew due to medical emergencies at home so is looking for free crew to make this passage that would normally cost you. Andy is one of the few deliver skippers who has more miles than I do. He started the OPOOPO with the OPOOPO fleet in the 1990’s then bought a ship model business and, worked full time at OPOOPO magazine, (he still writes freelance for them) before missing the fun and buying a boat to offer offshore adventures once again.
He plans to depart OPOOPO F OPOOPO 21st. The passage will take 7 or 8 days but add a couple of days for comfort. The trip is free but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail Andrew with a brief sailing resume and he will get back to you after he makes port, clears customs in Cuba and find good wi-fi. XXXXX@XXXX If you want you can also e-mail me if you have trouble and I can send him a short e-mail. But you may be able to get him in the next 24 hours.
|
4/21/2019 from Key West Florida to Newport RI on a Swan
Repeat with good e-mail address Pro skipper and boat owner OPOOPO is looking for two experienced crew to help sail his Baltic 47 named Masquerade from OPOOPO to Newport. This is the end of Andrew’s winter season before he sails back to his home port of Newport RI. In fact he is on his way to Cuba and will not have wi-fi between April 14th to 19th when he gets back. He lost two crew due to medical emergencies at home so is looking for free crew to make this passage that would normally cost you. Andy is one of the few deliver skippers who has more miles than I do. He started the OPOOPO with the OPOOPO fleet in the 1990’s then bought a ship model business and, worked full time at OPOOPO magazine, (he still writes freelance for them) before missing the fun and buying a boat to offer offshore adventures once again.
He plans to depart OPOOPO F OPOOPO 21st. The passage will take 7 or 8 days but add a couple of days for comfort. The trip is free but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail Andrew with a brief sailing resume and he will get back to you after he makes port, clears customs in Cuba and find good wi-fi. XXXXX@XXXX If you want you can also e-mail me if you have trouble and I can send him a short e-mail. But you may be able to get him in the next 24 hours.
|
5/1/2019 from Panama to the Marquesas Islands on a Swan
OPO e-mail # 19-17 Boat owner and skipper OPOOPO and his wife are looking for one or two more crew for this passage at the end of April. I met Alex in St. Maarten last week and he was referred to us through the Swan grapevine so we spoke before I flew home last week. I had been looking at his boat all week. Very nice new Swan 54 that he sailed from the Swan factory in Finland last year. He is a very nice Kiwi and will be looking for more crew down the line if this works out well for all. This is his first crew request for the next long leg. They are sailing towards Panama over the next few weeks and he will respond to your e-mails when he makes port. You would most likely plan to join them on the Caribbean side of the canal to help get through the canal as line handlers. The trip from OPOOPO to the Marquesas is a long 3800 miles downwind passage. You will want to have at least one month for this trip and most likley longer if Alex wishes to check out some of the Islands on the Pacific side of the Canal.
Here is his crew request in his own words:
If interested please e-mail him with a sailing resume and contact information at XXXXX@XXXX
The trip is free with onboard expenses included and he offers to help with travel expenses for the right crew. So only crew with offshore miles should respond.
“We are looking for one or two experienced crew to join us (my wife and myself) to sail from Panama to the OPOOPO at the end of April / early May on our Swan 54, Coco. We picked up Coco in Finland 6 months ago (she's a new yacht) and are in the process of sailing back to OPOOPO
For this leg of the trip, we are looking for people (1 or 2) with extensive open ocean sailing experience to join us, and if they have engineering skills that would be helpful. If you have a sailing couple in mind, that also works.
Summary of the skills we are looking for:
- Extensive open ocean sailing experience is a must
- Night watch experience required (they need to be capable of running a night watch alone)
- Engineering skills are helpful
- General boat maintenance skills
- If they have formal qualifications (like RYA ocean yachtmaster or above) that would be helpful but not required
- They must be easy going and be prepared to pitch in! (cooking / cleaning etc)
For the right person, we are happy to look at subsidizing airfare. Overall, we really want someone with great ocean going skills we can learn some new tricks from.
www.UUUUU.com
|
6/2/2019 from St. Maarten to Newport on a Swan
OPO e-mail # 19-20 This opportunity has a lot more pedigree than the one to the Arctic in winter. OPOOPO is an OPO success story that we only helped get started. Now he completes the circle by contacting us for crew. He e-mails:
• This is OPOOPO I did my first offshore passage as part of your Swan program about 17 or 18 years ago. In 2003, my wife Laura and I took delivery of our new OPOOPO Maramu in OPOOPO France. I found two crew through OPO for the 2004 St. Martin to Newport part of the passage that brought the boat to OPOOPO for the first time. In 2006, Laura and I departed to begin a circumnavigation that we completed in the Caribbean a few months ago. Now we would like to find two crew to join us in sailing the boat back to Newport. We hope to depart OPOOPO Marina in St. Martin during the first week of June and perhaps stop in St. George's, Bermuda for a couple of days on the way to Newport. Obviously, the timing is weather dependent.
• The boat is very well equipped. Potential crew can examine the specs of the boat here https://www.UUUUU.com. Our web site https://www.UUUUU.com provides information about our past 12 1/2 years of sailing. En route, we expect to break the night into three or four individual night watches. The boat has power furling so it’s very easy to reef sail. Crew needs to be competent but I do not require lots of prior ocean experience. Willingness and ability to share in cooking is a plus. No smoking aboard. The trip is free but you must get yourself to and from the boat. Crew are welcome to arrive early and stay on the boat.
The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat and have money for shore side meals and entertainment. If interested please e-mail Mark at XXXXX@XXXX with your sailing resume and contact information.
|
2/15/2019 from Fortaleza, Brazil to Grenada on a sloop
OPO e-mail # 19-05 Pro skipper OPOOPO lost a crew due to illness. Thus is short notice and I am pretty sure you may need a visa to go to Brazil and a letter from the skipper. I have an e-mail in to the crew to see if he is better and how it did making it home.
OPOOPO e-mails - “I am looking for 1 replacement crew for the last leg of this Cape Town to Grenada new sloop boat - . Boat is fast and comfortable, we eclipsed 20 knots at times on the last leg. Crew needs a good amount of experience with electronics and sails. All electric winches, most up to date everything. 1000-liters of fuel, 800 liters of water and watermarker. With wind and current behind us I expect a pleasant and speedy 8-9 day passage. Trip is free and flights are included. Please email sailing resume, references and brief personal bio to; www.UUUUU.com;
OPOOPO is at sea and checks e-mail via sat phone connections.
|
5/10/2019 from Panama to Boothbay, Maine on a Schooner
OPO E-Mail # 19-38 This opportunity just came in from OPOOPO I am OPOOPO Lohrey and am currently in Panama waiting to transit the canal to the Caribbean side within the next two weeks. I am seeking crew..particularly a good relief skipper and deckhand or two decent deckhands with experience and sea miles. Newport My site is www.UUUUU.com with all the information. Dirigo my boat is a OPOOPO Schooner, born in 1939 and circumnavigated twice. I have been sailing since my 20's and am now 71 years of age. My wife and I have already sailed this far from La Paz, Mexico. Our intention and destination is Boothbay Maine where we intend on showing the boat and hopefully sell her. Its time to do other things.... Any help between now and end of June would be fantastic..Our planned route would depend on winds and weather but right now its Canal to San Andreas and Providence Island and then Jamaica..after which I would like to head to Charleston and after that not quite sure. He is willing to discuss remuneration within reason for the right crew. If interested contact him at XXXXX@XXXX
|
5/4/2019 from Leverick Bay Virgin Gorda BVI to Bermuda and then Newport, RI on a Sabre 402
OPO e-mail # 19-06 Boat owner OPOOPO participated in the NARC Rally last Fall and needs crew for the return trip to Newport RI. He is a very nice guy. He has a 2001 Sabre 402 that he has owned since 2014. He is a lifelong sailor and has the boat well outfitted for offshore sailing. He is looking for two crew members for the passage north. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included. He would like crew to show up Thursday May 2nd with departure on May 4th. Flights are available via San Juan to Tortola and then a brief ferry ride over to Virgin Gorda. He says you are welcome to come a few days early if you want to enjoy some extra Island time. If interested please e-mail him with a brief sailing resume and your contact info so you can get in touch with each other between now and departure. His e-mail is XXXXX@XXXX
|
5/5/2019 from St. Maarten to Stamford CT via NY City on a Pacific Seacraft 40
OPO e-mail # 19-09 Boat owner OPOOPO is looking for two seasoned offshore crew (must be able to stand solo watch, work the sails, mind the weather and traffic) for his annual passage North from St. Maarten to the OPOOPO via East river. The crew will be a total of three counting the owner. Kalani is a 2004 OPOOPO 40 which is well maintained and equipped for offshore passage making. The owner has made the round trip run to and from the Caribbean six (6) times. The trip will leave from St. Maarten on May 5th. The trip should take about 12 days. All previous trips north left on time. The trip is free with all onboard boat expenses paid for, as well as a travel allowance (with-in reason) to St. Maarten and your return for the right crew.
Maintenance items include: standing rigging replaced, new canvas (dodger, bimini etc.,) new mainsail traveler system all in 2018. The life raft and SOLAS flares are current repacked in 2017. The sails are three years old.
The boat has: Raymarine suite of electronics, InReach, SSB, Satellite phone, Portable satellite phone in ditch bag, PFD w/ harness for all crew, jack lines, wind vane, solar panels and generator. Weather routing provided by OPOOPO as well as grib files received through the Sat. phone.
If interested please e-mail your detailed sailing resume and your contact information at XXXXX@XXXX
|
4/7/2019 from Galapagos to French Polynesia, Tonga, New Zealand on a Oyster 55
OPO e-mail # 18-127 OPO members and Boat Owners OPOOPO and his wife Diana are searching for crew to complete their voyage from Annapolis to New Zealand. OPOOPO has given us a lot of information to help find fellow OPO members who would like to join them for legs of their proposed itinerary. OPOOPO has been working towards this goal for many years as you will read. They are looking for experienced crew who can help run the boat and enjoy the passages. We have explained to members in the past that boat owners welcome fellow sailors to join them and they will cover boat expenses, but they do not want to adopt you. It is very reasonable to ask crew to chip in for provisions for longer passages and of course to be able to pay your way to and from the boat and have money for meals and entertainment ashore. Since OPOOPO did such a good job explaining the situation, the boat and his experience we have copied most of it here for you to help you make an informed decision about joining theming. If interested please send OPOOPO an e-mail with a brief sailing resume and start the courtship. OPOOPO e-mails: Owner/Captain of Oyster 55 seeks one crew to complete crew of four for one or more legs of passage from Galapagos to French Polynesia, Tonga, and New Zealand. Boat is a 3-cabin blue water cutter-rigged sloop with all modern electronics and safety equipment, stylish and comfortable. Each crew will have a private cabin. Depart Galapagos April 7 2019, arrive in Papeete, Tahiti approximately June 19 or 20 after spending time in Marquesas and Tuamotus. Depart Bora Bora approximately July 21 to Cook Islands, Niue, Samoas, Tonga. Depart Tonga approximately September 23 to New Zealand, arriving approximately October 1. Seeking crew with mechanical and/or electronics expertise and previous blue water experience. Owner/captain pays all boating expenses including fuel, marinas, sat phone subscription, etc. Crew shares expense for provisions and is responsible for personal expenses, visas, and transportation to and from the boat. Send sailing resumes or questions to XXXXX@XXXX . The Captain and First Mate Diana and I have been sailing on inland lakes since 1982. We started chartering Caribbean bareboats in 2000 after doing some crewed charters in the 1990’s. Chartering fit us so well that we bought a Beneteau 50 in the Sunsail fleet in BVI in 2009. Using the exchange privilege that comes with owning a Sunsail boat, we sailed in almost every country where Sunsail or Moorings had a base. So in addition to sailing to almost every island in the Caribbean, we have bareboated in Bahamas, Belize, Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Seychelles, Thailand, Australia, and French Polynesia. I’ve crewed on two OPO passages. In 2015 we bought an Oyster 55 and begin refitting it and customizing it to our purposes. We sailed it to Newport for her shakedown run, the 2016 Bermuda Race. I had no particular expectations but we held third place in our division on days 2-4, but in light winds on the final day we faded to fifth place. So far we have sailed the following passages on her: 2016 Annapolis to Newport Newport-Bermuda Race (and return to Annapolis) Hampton VA to BVI with the Salty Dawg rally 2017 Many days in the Lesser Antilles BVI to Bermuda to Newport Newport to Hampton Hampton to BVI 2018 BVI to Puerto Rico to Dominican Republic Dominican Republic to Cartagena, Colombia Cartagena to Turks and Caicos Turks and Caicos to Annapolis I’ve kept good records of our saltwater sailing days and as of now we have spent 842 days on saltwater. Some of that is at sea on long passages but most of it is on anchor or in marinas after short passages between islands. I try to avoid marinas when I can, but sometimes there is no other choice. The Boat Escapade’s communication equipment includes VHF with DSC at the nav desk and a Command Mic at the helm, SSB at the nav desk, an Iridium 9575 Extreme sat phone at the nav desk with outside antenna and a Delorme/Garmin InReach. In addition we carry 2 handheld VHF radios including one with DSC. For navigation there are two Raymarine series E chart plotters, a 12-inch screen at the nav desk and a 9-inch screen at the helm. For redundancy we carry 3 iPads with Navionics and a handheld GPS. Safety equipment includes a new Winslow 8-man life raft, EPIRB, and all the other devices required to meet the Bermuda Race Safety Requirements. There are 4 bilge pumps including an electric pump in the bilge, a manual pump near the nav desk, a manual pump in the cockpit, and an engine driven pump. There are 6 fire extinguishers including an automatic one in the engine room. Escapade is equipped with radar and two-way AIS. Sail management includes a Harken electric furler on the Genoa and a Hood electric in-mast furler on the mainsail. The primary winches and the coach roof winch for the mainsheet, outhaul, boom vang, and topping lift are electric powered. The winches for the staysail, traveler, and spinnaker halyards are manual. Ground tackle consists of a 99-pound Spade anchor and 400 feet of hi-test chain as the primary anchor and a 44-pound Bruce anchor on 500 feet of rope (and a short chain) as the secondary anchor. Escapade’s energy system consists of a bank of 8 Lifeline AGM house batteries, 2 Lifeline AGM engine starting batteries, and a Lifeline AGM generator starting battery. Energy is supplied by two alternators on the engine, a 9.0 kW Northern Lights generator, 2 solar panels, and, of course, shore power (50 amp). The AC system is 240 volt, 50 Hz, but the transformer can supply 120 volts to two dedicated outlets. The DC system is 24 volt. All lights are LED. Air conditioning and water maker require 240v AC current from shore power or generator. Each cabin has dual USB power ports. Tankage includes 220 gallons of fuel and 220 gallons of water. Cruising range under motor, depending on sea state, is approximately 1000 miles. Comfort and convenience features include 3-zone air conditioning/heat, icemaker, large refrigerator and separate freezer, 25 gph water maker, 32-inch Samsung flat panel television, audio system with speakers in saloon and in cockpit, USB power ports at the nav desk and in each cabin, and a custom-designed dodger/bimini with Lucite panels forward and roll-up Eisenglass enclosure panels all around. Screens for ventilation can be substituted on the sides and aft. My favorite indulgence features are a 9 hp bow thruster and a Maxwell remote windlass control at the helm with a chain counter.
|
1/22/2019 from Bermuda to Panama on a Oyster 55
OPO e-mail # 19-01 VERY SHORT NOTICE. PAID TRAVEL TO BERMUDA. Hank, I need one crew on January 22 to complete a crew of four for a passage from Bermuda to Panama with a short stop in OPOOPO I lost my fourth crew due to the schedule change when we diverted to Bermuda in very rough seas. We plan to leave in the late afternoon or early evening on Tuesday, January 22, and spend 6-7 days sailing to OPOOPO a day or two stopover for provisioning and fueling, and 6-7 days from OPOOPO to Panama. After completing Customs and Immigration we are going to spend several days in the OPOOPO Islands, so if the crew had time they might want to stay aboard for that. I can pay airfare to Bermuda. Crew needs to have had previous blue water experience. If interested please e-mail with a brief sailing resume at XXXXX@XXXX
This just came in half an hour ago. I do know Larry and he is a very nice guy and this is a great boat. Oyster 55. So if you can get away on short notice, please do get in touch.
|
12/4/2018 from Norfolk Virginia to St. Thomas USVI on a Outbound 52
OPO e-mail # 18-125 Pro skipper and “Outbound” OPOOPO (and good friend) OPOOPO is looking for one more crew for a total of 4 to deliver an Outbound 52 from OPOOPO to St. Thomas. He had crew lined up, but one dropped out last minute. Since it is short notice Skip will pay all expenses including travel to and from the boat within reason. Of course this means you need to be able to stand a solo watch and have some offshore experience. (and take good care of the boat) OPOOPO said on the phone. He “could go with three crew but this time of year you really want to have that experience 4th hand onboard.”
Skip has been a pro delivery skipper for as long as I have and we have known each other for many years. If you have been on an Outbound at any of the OPOOPO OPOOPO the last few years you have met Skip. OPOOPO have delivered this boat. I took her south about 4 or 4 years ago when Skip did not have time to do it himself. They did not make a lot of Outbound 52’s. She is center cockpit and very comfortable. Expect the trip to take about 8 to 10 days, but that starts after you leave and there may be a weather delay. Ideally crew live close enough to Norfolk that one can drive or rent a car to get there with 24 to 36 hour notice and wait at home if there is a long delay. There is always the possibility of stopping in Bermuda if need be, so you don’t be time constrained. Remember, Skip is paying for your plane ticket home. If interested please e-mail Skip with a brief sailing resume and your phone number at XXXXX@XXXX
|
5/4/2019 from St. Thomas to Newport RI on a Outbound 46
OPO e-mail # 19-12 Boat owner and long time friend OPOOPO is looking for one or two crew for his annual passage back to OPOOPO He has gotten crew from us over the years to fill in when friends don’t have time. He has a very boat and has made the passage several times. He e-mails: “Need one or two more crew for a total of 4. 2012 Outbound 46 with double head stay rig, 3 reefs run to the cockpit, all safety equipment. Experienced and easy going owner/captain. Email XXXXX@XXXX “ As usual the trip is free but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail him at the above address.
|
4/22/2019 from Nassau Bahamas to Newport on a Newport
OPO e-mail # 19-21 Pro skipper OPOOPO is looking for two or three crew to deliver a very nice Beneteau 49 from Nassau Bahamas to Newport and then on to Marion Mass. I have known OPOOPO for 20 years and often refer deliveries to him. He has worked for both Colgate and J-World running their one week live-aboard courses. He is looking for nice crew who can follow orders and stand a watch, but he is willing to take eager crew who need help getting offshore sea time. Crew need to be alert and take care of the boat. With 4 crew in total and starting out in easier warmer conditions OPOOPO will help get you up to speed so you can stand a solo watch by the end of the trip. The passage will take about 7 days, plus another day to Marion. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO with your sailing resume at offshoreOPOOPO @www.UUUUU.com
|
6/12/2019 from Tortola to Newport RI on a Nautitech 46 Catamaran
OPO E-Mail # 19-39 We are looking for 1 or 2 additional crew members to help us deliver our 2016 Nautitech 46 Catamaran from Nanny Cay in Tortola to Newport RI. We will have 3-4 crew members and may, or may not, call in Bermuda depending on weather, boat, supplies and crew. I hold a Master Mariner 50T Near Coastal License, ave been sailing for more than 30 years and 12,000 miles. This will be my 11th passage. We are looking for someone who has been offshore and is capable of standing watch alone and contributing to a safe and enjoyable passage. Expect to depart on, or around, June 12th and arrive end of June. We will provide provisions and are negotiable on contributing to airfare if necessary. You can find out more about OPOOPO on http://www.UUUUU.com Please email me your resume for consideration. Thanks, OPOOPO
|
5/5/2019 from St. Maarten to Azores on a Naiad 42
OPO e-mail # 19-30 Boat in need of a person with a license for insurance requirements. And if you wish all the way to Sweden - OPOOPO is looking for an experienced sailor to sail with him and his friends from St. Maarten back to Sweden. They were all set with a nice Naiad 42 which belongs to a friend, but the insurance company is insisting they have one more experienced person onboard for the passage at least until the Azores. After the Azores they are back in European waters and ok so they only need the 5th crew until then but you are welcome to complete the trip. All are experienced sailors. They are sailing up to St. Maarten and will be there by the end of the month (April) to provision and get ready for the leg to the Azores. The first leg will take about 3 to 4 weeks with travel (there are direct flights from the Azores to Boston) and the entire passage will take about 6 or 7 weeks. If you have a resume good enough to satisfy their insurance requirements, he will pay travel costs within reason. This started out as friends moving a friend’s boat back from the Caribbean to Sweden for free, but ran into a glitch because of the insurance requirements between St. Maarten and the Azores. You would be helping out bigtime but would also have a great sailing passage. If you think you are interested in sailing with him and his friends please e-mail him at XXXXX@XXXX When asked for more details to help entice some responses from OPO volunteers e-mailed back just now. “Maybe it’s a good idea to add that the need to have a RYA - yacht master or equivalent. The certifícate is more important than experience. The crew is in fairly young and dynamic crew (25-37yrs) One girl 3 guys. The current captain (me) have sailed over 20 000 nm. We have an electrician and a restaurant owner on board. The new co captain is not expected to pull any heavy load or do any hard work unless they want to ;)”
|
12/17/2018 from Mamaroneck, NY to Ft Lauderdale, FL on a Lagoon 42 Catamaran
OPO e-mail # 18-129 This is a very short notice and over Christmas so flights are fully covered. The boat is a 2017 Lagoon 42 Catamaran and has a generator and HVAC so indoor temps will be comfortable underway. No weather uncertainties will be contemplated and we will pull in/wait as needed and run near/within reach of the coast. I am looking for two crew with flexible scheduling and ability to be away from home for Christmas. Crew should be able to handle the boat, gear, weather, traffic and electronics on solo watch. The sail is about 1 week but weather makes an exact passage time impossible to be sure of. The trip is free and all onboard expenses and food covered along with flights. Please email XXXXX@XXXX with your sailing resume and a brief personal bio
|
5/10/2019 from St. Augustine FL to San Diego CA. on a Lagoon
OPO e-mail # 19-27 Pro skipper OPOOPO has another longish delivery that he needs help with. He has gotten crew from us several times in the past and has used those members he liked again and again. He is taking a Lagoon 440 (see link below) from Florida to California thought the OPOOPO I will let him explain his plan:
“I am going to be delivering this catamaran from starting on or about May 10. I am going to split it up into 2 trips as the boat will be in Panama for about 3 weeks. Anyone interested in doing either leg? Probably leave Panama around June 15 for OPOOPO If so, email me back with some information about yourself. I am looking for 2 crew for the first leg, I already have 1 person (OPO member, and returning crewmember) signed up for the second leg. No smokers, no drinking underway. All onboard expenses covered, just get to and from the boat.
I am a licensed captain with over 100,000 mi. of open ocean sailing experience. I can provide references, and would like the same from you.”
The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but as usual you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO with your sailing resume and contact information so you can see about joining him. E-mail is XXXXX@XXXX
http://www.UUUUU.com
|
4/15/2019 from Liverpool UK to Patagonia Chile on a Ketch
OPO e-mail # 19-19 (Portugal - OPOOPO - OPOOPO -Brazil -Argentina -Falklands - Chile) I spoke with OPOOPO via Skype for a while yesterday. He is in the UK getting ready for another grand adventure. He is keen to find another crew or two to join him. He sent me this detailed information last night. I have cleaned it up some. If at all interested I encourage you to contact him to get more information. If you need more time you can join him in Portugal, but ideally he wishes crew to join him from the start in the UK. He has to leave the boat for a few days in Mid-May which is why there is an option to join him later.
The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to the boat and have money for shore side stops. John has paid for crews travel expenses in the past and has not worked out well, but he is willing to help with travel home for the right crew, just not upfront.
If interested please e-mail John with your sailing resume and contact information as you will want to exchange more information. (like a picture of the boat etc.) He will also want to know more about you. If interested please contact J. OPOOPO at XXXXX@XXXX
“Thanks for this opportunity OPOOPO OPOOPO . (John) but in correspondence use J. OPOOPO too many OPOOPO around !!!”
I like to include as much information as possible in our e-mail notices to OPO members. If you are interested, there is never enough. If you are not interested, you do not have t read all of it. Here is more of what John sent to me.
“Departure is from here in Liverpool mid-April but with business to attend to in southern OPOOPO like to include a departure date in mid-May from a southern location in Portugal as well. I'd prefer the Liverpool first and say the period in Portugal for crew could be for visiting the region keeping an eye on the vessel and learn how to speak Portuguese! If this idea sounds too complicated, then plan to just offer the Liverpool departure date. (With a layover in southern Portugal.) Would be for no more than 10 days to two weeks.
Now getting to OPOOPO is an adventure in itself With the NE trades off Portugal well established by departure our first port of call will be the Canaries. This cruise though is not specifically just to the places along the way but has its goal South. Expect some time to enjoy Tenerife or perhaps OPOOPO which has a better anchorage near the city. More fresh provisions before we set off for OPOOPO and a brief visit there before crossing the Equator and Atlantic with ports of southern Brazil to visit. Rio itself is the Port of entry and continue south with some stops while waiting for wx windows. Argentina follows with Mar del Plata and the rest of Argentina's wild desolate pampas/ Patagonia coast. A few nice harbors like OPOOPO and Camarones is reasonable behind their new wall...Falklands perhaps as its wonderful marine life and superb anchorages and only another 100 miles out of the way. But weather becomes an important consideration from here into the Beagle. Next is a bit of Andes in the OPOOPO de Estados and a finer cove would be hard to find. OPOOPO with waterfalls and now snow on the higher mtns. OPOOPO at slack water ebb with a good forecast to OPOOPO and then into the Beagle and the following 2000 miles is the goal of this trip.
OPOOPO offers the adventurous sailor a vast scenic wilderness and yes challenging sailing too. In south the tide water glaciers of the N OPOOPO of the Beagle -pose no navigation hazard but best travel days as bergy bits are hard to see at night. The ice cascades down from the ice field covering the OPOOPO Magellan follows then it's about 1500 miles channels passing though labyrynth of channels and islands. An inside passage where nightly stops are a must and those nearly every 10 to 15 miles. Unique in the world of sailing so far with so many fine places too rest and with patience wait for that opportunity to continue north. Winds are likely to be favorable and the ever strong westerlies are not so strong then. We reach the islands of Chile at around 43 degrees south is a different world. One with small native villages, superb sheltered regions for sailing-protected from the Pacific by Chiloe. With always those majestic volcanoes of the Andes nearby. OPOOPO is the capital of this the Lake district of southern Chile. our goal.
This trip will be my 9th thru Patagonia from OPOOPO north or OPOOPO South. Two winter passages too the last one in 2017 returning from my 4th world passage via OPOOPO Cape of OPOOPO (central Indian Ocean). Nearly 200,000 miles of sailing experience over 50 years-some solos but usually crewed. OPOOPO for the first two. Both guys and gals along the way too. Built that boat too-a 46 ft LO OPOOPO OPOOPO A warm OPOOPO design. Not a performance vessel but a seaworthy and sea kindly design. A bit deeper than the originals. Moitessier designer to copied the Seal' deck and above LWL features but modified the under sections to make the Joshuas a better sailor. OPOOPO taught celestial navigation and boat building at the Sitka campus of the University of OPOOPO a lot there including professional OPOOPO and now owner of a sawmill business on my island property (a mile and a half away from the location of the Russian's sale of Alaska to the UJSA) and the city center.
I did an Atlantic circuit 2011-13 stopping at OPOOPO then the Falklands out to that dramatic OPOOPO of OPOOPO again to OPOOPO the 3rd time there and off to the Arctic off Norway returning exactly the route I propose to do now. The southern segments of that trip OPOOPO Plata to Le maire I've been over that now 3 times twice out to the Falklands. Know the route very well as I do the Patagonia section with this time being my 9th passage. This time will be with the vessel described below.
Bought this Schooner to return to my home in Alaska via the NWP/ She was the third one I'd looked at, One a Damien II-the design with a large retracting center board- and the other a similar schooner rig but with fix fin keel as the ballast. This vessel seemed reasonably priced and I thought it looked ready for the passage north. Well it is now, as I changed lots to make her a fine ocean cruiser. New sails, new life lines, a better jackstay for tether attachment. (AA OPOOPO ) reefed sails rather than roller reefing. sanded the hull by hand and no rust issues- 7 coats of paint on the bottom 3 on the topsides all epoxy. . She's an interesting design and was engineered and designed by the large German shipyard at Ratsenberg (SP) Looks like a large Huisman 41 though with more skeg and the keel longer, about 20 ft sloping to take the ground. and skeg about 8 feet. for better yaw avoidance and safety. Similar to the Hisman that Cowper in the late 70’ made his record breaking world trips.
Some details : schooner rig marconi equal height mast high aspect sails Best call this schooner a cutter schooner with her nearly 20 ft of foredeck and high aspect main and fore main sails. low pilot house dodge/sort of center cockpit but used for fuel now are aft dog house covered-two 100 watt solar panels soft sides and back. good visibility. Wheel steering but tiller is there and easily adapted. Self steering with the separate rudder system of the OPOOPO unit. electronic pilot but not installed needs to wired up. Many storm including trisail-hank on head sails for strength and ease of changing them and trade wind sails all in excellent condition with twin large poles for head sail control when reaching and running. poles --stout Aluminum those. Oh yes the mast are St steel as are the booms Inspected all and ready to go. Interior is insulated and heated with two diesel cabin heaters the OPOOPO I added and a Ebersp---blower type too. Two dbl staterooms aft and two pilot berths for crew. foc'sle is my workshop and sail storage. Galley is unique as it extends across the vessel. Seems to be working out fine. Water is hand or pressure. I like the hand operation. New manual head nice shower region but have additional fuel cans there too. The main tank holds 200 gals fuel and 400 gals water. In all she can old about 300 gals. enough for nearly 2000 miles at slow 5 knot speed. Power 90 HP a Renault RC diesel I've rebuilt. Anchor l 5 in all with the 110 lb Bruce as the bower and 150 ft of chain but for the channels shore lines are required and have now about 1000 ft of shore
OPOOPO < XXXXX@XXXX >lines 100 m. Other anchors are old CQR's .;
Danforth style 50 lbs. In the channels it's just not anchoring but tying the boat to shore. Avoids her sailing around and /or dragging Also best immediately under the trees or close to shore in some regions. if no trees
OPOOPO do have photos of her hauled here and in the water where she is now. Crew has been a real problem this time. Especially thinking I'd be ready to leave months ago. all waning ag to sail and bot just wasn't ready. Now it will be. Consider either guys or gals as there is a private stateroom. Should have experience Not daunted by cold but with the heaters going and not that cold either there beside inside steering/sailing locations All make a huge difference. From a comfortable adventure to an expedition approach.
Lots not covered of course a list goes on full electronics but AIS is a receive only. Chart plotters, well three, but no use in the South. 3 GS nice new Radar Ray marine C120 talk system. 8 man zodiac. 3 immersion suits for cold water survival not your little PFD. They are worthless.
One more thing the miles. Trade wind passages consider F4 and with hull speed here about 8 knots easily make 175 a day Trades are most of the sailing too about 5000 miles across both the NE and SE--E to NE in the south. Patagonia and westerlies the balance 2000 miles Patagonia and at first motoring but winter passages expect some nice sailable days with light easterlies and clear skies. So in all around 8500 miles”
|
5/4/2019 from BVI to Ireland on a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45
OPO e-mail # 19-10 Boat owner and skipper OPOOPO is looking for one or two crew or a couple to help sail back to Ireland from the OPOOPO Islands. He send the following details about the passage opportunity. As usual please respond to Neil with a sailing resume and your contact information if you are interested. XXXXX@XXXX “Hi, I am looking for 1 - 2 crew to join my boat for an Atlantic crossing starting in the BVIs in early May and stopping in the Azores and Ireland before heading up the west coast of Scotland. The boat is a OPOOPO Odyssey 45 on which I crossed the other way last November with my wife and children on the ARC. My wife and children are flying home in May so the current crew for the return crossing are myself (43, RY OPOOPO Skipper) and a friend from my home club (RY OPOOPO Offshore). We have 1 cabin free and ideally I'd like 2 additional crew so a couple could work. Crew should be able to stand solo night watches and ideally have at least a couple of hundred ocean miles. I'm happy to cover all provisioning, routine expenses, etc. Expect crew to cover travel to and from boat and share costs if we're out for a jolly. No smoking on board, and no drinking on passage. “
|
4/20/2019 from Ft Lauderdale FL to Annapolis, MD. on a Jeanneau
OPO e-mail # 19-24 resend Pro skipper Captain OPOOPO is still looking for one or two crew for this trip so asked me to resend it. He is looking for two crew to help deliver a Jeanneau 53 from Ft. Lauderdale to Annapolis departing April 20th. He has gotten crew from us for many years and it has always worked out well, which is why he keeps coming back to us. OPOOPO has a lot of miles and has lots of stories to tell. I have not sailed with him, but have been told he is a vet nice guy and knows what he is doing. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail your sailing resume to XXXXX@XXXX . For more information www.UUUUU.com This time we will include his phone number if you want to give him a call and see more what this is about. But to us it seems like a good miles builder with a pro skipper.
XXX-XXX-XXXX Cell
|
4/20/2019 from Ft Lauderdale FL to Annapolis, MD. on a Jeanneau
OPO e-mail # 19-24 Pro skipper Captain OPOOPO sent us a crew request a few minutes ago. He is looking for two crew to help deliver a Jeanneau 53 from Ft. Lauderdale to Annapolis departing April 20th. He says, “Watch standing, sailing skills, chart plotter skills essential.” He has gotten crew from us for many years and it has always worked out well, which is why he keeps coming back to us. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail your sailing resume to XXXXX@XXXX . For more information Yacht Deliveries
|
4/20/2019 from Ft Lauderdale FL to Annapolis, MD. on a Jeanneau
Update with return airfare Pro skipper Captain OPOOPO is still looking for one or two crew for this trip so asked me to resend it. He is looking for two crew to help deliver a Jeanneau 53 from Ft. Lauderdale to Annapolis departing April 20th. He has gotten crew from us for many years and it has always worked out well, which is why he keeps coming back to us. OPOOPO has a lot of miles and has lots of stories to tell. I have not sailed with him, but have been told he is a vet nice guy and knows what he is doing. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, with return airfare within reason. If interested please e-mail your sailing resume to XXXXX@XXXX . For more information www.UUUUU.com This time we will include his phone number if you want to give him a call and see more what this is about. But to us it seems like a good miles builder with a pro skipper.
XXX-XXX-XXXX Cell
|
5/15/2019 from Wentworth Marina in New Castle, NH to Handy Boat Marina in Falmouth, ME on a Island Tracker 46 Motor Sailor
OPO e-mail # 19-43 OPO member OPOOPO is delivering an Island Tracker 46 Motor Sailor (no sails) from Wentworth Marina in New Castle NH to Handy Boat Marina in Falmouth ME. This is a day trip that will take 10-12 hours on the water depending on the wind direction and sea state. Wednesday looks like the best day of the week for the trip.. I've sailed the New England Coast for many years and have been doing delivery for the past two seasons. I have a USGC 100T Masters Near Coastal license, and I've been an OPO member for a number of years. We will be given a ride back to the Wentworth Marina (one hour) by the owner once we get to shore. I have sailed with him and he is a nice guy. He states: “I'm looking for someone that can handle a watch and is interested in getting some miles on the water. I'm an easy going person and safety conscience. Expenses paid on the boat but crew will need to get to from the boat. Please have any interested OPO members contact me via email with a resume at XXXXX@XXXX
|
4/11/2019 from Florida to Maryland on a Hylas
OPO e-mail # 19-22 Pro skipper OPOOPO is looking for 1 or 2 QUALIFIED and OFFSHORE-EXPERIENCED crew member(s) to round out his offshore passage crew. MUST have offshore experience and MUST provide résumé or sailing log as well as references.
Jim is a good skipper and has got crew from us numerous times before. Jim is delivering a new, fully-equipped Hylas 48 from OPOOPO FL to Annapolis MD. This will be a passage that will take about 4-5 days...plus possible weather delay days. In addition, applicants should figure on a prior day for prep as well as a cleanup day after arrival.
All crew will arrive via OPOOPO airport on OPOOPO 11, for departure the next day (weather permitting)...and must be available through April 20 (?), to allow for potential weather delays.
This trip is unpaid (i.e., no per diem) but crew members will have all food expenses covered. Transportation costs to and from the boat will also be reimbursed, up to a maximum of $600.
If interested, please e-mail Jim directly at XXXXX@XXXX
(don't forget the "r" in the address). Attach your résumé or log of past offshore trips and include references.
Jim adds:
I am a 100-ton professional delivery captain with 42 years' experience and more than 116,000 offshore miles. I have done this and similar passages many times before. I am safety- and weather-conscious, and have a calm demeanor.
|
4/11/2019 from St. Thomas to Ft Lauderdale on a Hylas
OPO e-mail # 19-23 This just in from boat owner and OPO member Nelson. He is lining up crew for his skipper and cook. Nelson has gotten crew from us several times before and knows since it is short notice to help with a travel stipend. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO with a brief sailing resume. Nice boat. He e-mails:
“St. Thomas to OPOOPO OPOOPO 11-exact date to be confirmed. Looking for two crew for Hylas 70,"Destiny", totally equipped for offshore Bluewater cruising. Yacht is under command of OPOOPO OPOOPO and has full time cook. Must have offshore experience and be capable of solo watch standing. Must submit experience details or sailing logs with response. Due to short notice up to $1000 travel expenses to be reimbursed and all is food provided. Responses should go directly to OPOOPO at D XXXXX@XXXX .”
|
5/5/2019 from St. Thomas USVI to Northport NY on a Hinckley 48
OPO e-mail # 19-32 Boat owner and veteran sailor Nick Cancro is looking for one more crew to join his Hughes 48 names Marie Elena. He would like crew to arrive in St. Thomas OPOOPO ter than May 5th. Since you will be one of three crew, you need to be able to stand a solo watch. Nick has made the passage 19 times. I met him at his booth at the Annapolis Boat Show last fall. He seems like a very nice guy. The boat is set up with modern electronics and safety gear. The boat almost looks like a Hinckley 48 and was built in Canada. The trip north will take about 10 days but allow up to 2 weeks just in case.
The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. You also have money for shore side drinks and meals. If interested please e-mail Nick at XXXXX@XXXX with your sailing resume.
|
4/22/2019 from Cartagena Columbia to Newport with stops in Turks and Caicos and Bermuda on a Hinckley 48
OPO e-mail # 19-07 Boat owner and very experienced skipper OPOOPO is looking for three crew to join him for his annual passage north. He has a nice Hinckley 48 that he has owned for many years. He knows the boat very well and has sailed north and south between the Caribbean and Newport many times. I have known him for many years and he is a very nice guy. He is looking for crew with experience, but with 4 crew in total you may not have to do a solo watch at first until you get comfortable. He just e-mailed me with his plans for his trip north this year. He e-mails “I plan on Leaving Cartagena on the 22nd of April and sail 5 days to Turks and Caicos. Stay one night then 5 days to Bermuda. Stay for a night or two and the sail 4 days to Newport arriving around the 7th or 8th of May I’m looking for 3 crew to sail all or part of the passage If interested please e-mail Mike with a brief sailing resume and your contact information at XXXXX@XXXX
|
12/14/2018 from Newport RI to Savannah Georgia on a Hanse 50
OPO e-mail # 18-126 Popular and very busy Ozzie Skipper OPOOPO is squeezing in one more delivery passage this year. (He just left Charleston yesterday after a 4 day weather delay and will be finished with his latest delivery in three or four days so you may not hear from him right away). OPOOPO sent us the following quip which normally would not warrant sending out a “crew request”, but since we know him and the situation, we know this is a good opportunity if you want some winter experience and more sea time before the year is out. The boat is a new Hanse 50. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO at XXXXX@XXXX with a brief sailing resume. OPOOPO figures 6 days underway, but be prepared for weather delays. Departure dependent on weather window. “Hi hank. Looking for crew from Newport to Savannah about the 14th December, new 50 ft Hanse. Would guess 6 days. All on board expenses paid, travel up to individual. Leaving Charleston finally, in Bahamas hopefully 4 days. Cheers”
|
4/5/2019 from Marsh Harbor to Chesapeake Bay on a Hallberg Rassy 53
OPO e-mail # 19-04 or Plan B, Nassau to Bermuda, then on to the Chesapeake. - Boat owners and OPO member graduates OPOOPO and OPOOPO are looking for one more crew for a total of three for this opportunity from the Bahamas to the Chesapeake Bay. OPOOPO joined OPO members a long time ago to get more offshore experience, and now holds a 200 Yacht Master with many offshore miles under his belt. She has her STCW2010. The vessel is a Hallberg Rassy 53 in excellent condition. They have had the boat since buying her in Greece in 2013, they cruised the Med and then crossed the Atlantic in 2016 and have been cruising in the Caribbean since, and know her very well. He is very handy and can fix most things. She is very nice and they are experienced sailors now. They retired younger than most people so are still in fine shape. They are younger than me, which is not saying too much anymore. Since it will be a crew of three you must have experience to stand a solo watch on the offshore legs and know how to handle sea sickness if you are prone to it. Option 1: The plan is to meet in Marsh Harbor about April 5th and then cruise a couple of islands before making the offshore trip to the Chesapeake Bay. Approx. 10-12 days Option 2: Weather permitting, depart Nassau around March 28, sail to Bermuda (~4 days) for a planned stay for 10 days and arriving in Chesapeake area around April 20, give or take. This may also be considered as two separate legs. Still considering both options, and crew availability may help deciding factor. If interested please e-mail them at XXXXX@XXXX with a brief sailing resume and your contact information.
|
2/24/2019 from Dominican Republic to Grand Turk. on a Gulfstar
OPO e-mail # 19-03 Here is another Caribbean crew request just in this weekend. This owner has gotten crew from us before and it worked out well. It is a shorter trip of a week to 10 days so might fit in better for most members who are still working. This one is also going in the right direction with the wind. Johnathan e-mails:
“Need a winter break? Calypso, a Gulfstar 50 ketch, fully refit by the current owner/captain, is looking for one experienced crew for the next leg of her homeward passage. The captain has forty years sailing experience, has sailed Calypso 10,000 miles since refit, and has been sailing Calypso in the Caribbean for the last three winters. In addition to an OPO crew, there will be the captain and two adult family members who have sailed on Calypso before in coastal waters.
This will be a short, downwind, but offshore, passage in a tropical climate from the marina in Samana, OPOOPO to OPOOPO Passage duration is expected to be a day and a half. Projected departure date is February 24th, weather permitting. This could be delayed if a large NE swell or NE wind is forecast. Crew is invited to come early if they wish to see the DR or stay on the other end to scuba dive in the Turks. After check-in at OPOOPO crew could carry on for 2-3 more day sails across to Provodenciales, as desired or leave from OPOOPO
Crew must have offshore experience. Calypso has a full complement of safety gear. Owner will provide sailing resume, reference from a prior OPO crew, and boat photos to interested crew. Expenses covered on board, shared ashore.”
If interested please e-mail Johnathan with a sailing resume and contact information at OPOOPO XXXXX@XXXX
|
3/3/2019 from Turks and Cacois to Puerto Rico on a Fountaine Pujot Tobago
OPO e-mail # 19-08 This may be a long shot, but we just got this from a boat owner and skipper who sent this in today. We first met Mark in Newport RFI last fall before we departed in the NAR OPOOPO and he has made it a long way since then He is a nice guy. Here is what he sent us. I am sending it as is so you have it ASAP and you can respond to him with a brief sailing resume. It is a short trip but he says you are welcome to stay longer and as he states there may be a delay looking for a weather window. I am in St. Maarten for the Heineken regatta and crew are showing up today and tomorrow so we are busy getting ready. I will check e-mail once a day while we are here. OPOOPO e-mails the following. If you are interested please send him a brief sailing resume to XXXXX@XXXX . “Made it to Turks and Cacois in one piece and waiting for a weather window before heading towards OPOOPO PR. I’m looking for one or two interested crew to share in a 3-4 day adventure. Anyone willing to do so would be more than welcome to stay on board for a few days once reaching our destination to relax and recover. All expenses onboard (food/beverages) will be covered. Must have passport. There are no weather windows for the next week so (I’m guessing) arrival between March 3-6th would be optimal. With that said, we may have to delay our departure further until a good weather window presents itself. There are 2 other sailboats waiting here at the marina to head east as well so we should have a small convoy. About the boat: She’s a 1994 3-cabin single head OPOOPO Tobago with all new systems, including new engines, mast, standing rigging, sails, batteries, wiring and electronics (including chart plotter, sonar and radar). She handled her shake-out cruise from Newport, RI to Jacksonville, Fl like a champ and just completed a Jacksonville, FL to Turks and Cacois transit that was full of adventures. About the captain: I’m a young and semi-retired electrical engineer/software developer with 30+ years of sailing experience looking forward to exploring the leeward and windward islands. I’ve sailed the Philippines, southern California, south Florida and the keys with experience sailing from OPOOPO PR to OPOOPO My most recent experience has been sailing from Newport, RI to OPOOPO Fl then 7 days to Turks and Cacois. All volunteers are encouraged to email their sailing resume’s to me at XXXXX@XXXX , the more experience the better. There are 2 liveaboard cats onboard.
|
6/14/2019 from East Hampton NY to Bermuda and back on a Formosa 41
OPO e-mail # 19-31 I spoke with boat owner OPOOPO today. He is looking for one additional crew to make the round trip from OPOOPO NY (on the OPOOPO of Long Island) to Bermuda. There will be a total of 4 crew on the passage to Bermuda. One crew will leave in Bermuda and the owner and other crew will stay ashore one week. You, the 4th crew, would stay aboard the boat in Bermuda and have the boat to yourself. The boat will be docked in St. Georges harbor dockside and plugged in. Then the boat will sail back with three or four crew to be decided. He has plenty of sailing experience, two trips to Bermuda and two Trans-Atlantics.
The boat is a 1972 Formosa 41. He has owned the boat since 1975. The boat has a new engine and had a refit last year. The boat has a life raft, EPIRB and SSB. This will take about one week to get to Bermuda, one week in Bermuda and one week back so about 3 weeks. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the bat. Arthur would very much like to meet the crew well ahead of time so you can meet each other and inspect the boat. So if you are interested please e-mail him with your sailing resume and phone number so you can plan to meet if possible. Please e-mail your resume to XXXXX@XXXX
|
1/15/2019 from Cape Town, South Africa to Grenada, WI on a Factory Balance 526 Catamaran
OPO e-mail # 18-108 - Need replacement crew due to illness Factory Balance 526 Catamaran - Pro skipper OPOOPO has this very nice delivery lined up. I have done this same route except on a 39 foot catamaran. This will be a luxury cruise in comparison. The crew need to know what they are doing and you have to remember this is a new boat so you have to keep the boat very clean and might not sue some of the heads etc. Also OPOOPO is a pro skipper who expects a bit more from crew. This is an easy trip as there are no storms in the south Atlantic after you leave Capetown, a great bucket list opportunity to visit a remote island.
ALL FLIGHTS PAID
I am the Factory Delivery Skipper for Balance Catamarans, an extremely high end yacht competing with the former Gunboat, HH in the luxury cruising/racing segment of the industry. I am looking for 1 more well qualified offshore sailor for this unique opportunity due to illness. The sail is approximately 5400 miles and should take about 5 weeks, or less if we can cruise in the teens as this boat is designed to do. It will be summer in the S. Atlantic so temperatures should be moderate. Crew MUST be able to stand solo watch, mind the sails, instruments, weather, ship traffic and be keen and observant at all times. Planned stops in St Helena and Fortaleza, Brazil. The trip is free and flights to and from the boat are covered. Please send your sailing resume, personal bio and references to: XXXXX@XXXX .
|
12/15/2018 from Cape Town, South Africa to Grenada, WI on a Factory Balance 526 Catamaran
Resend of # 18-108 Factory Balance 526 Catamaran - Pro skipper OPOOPO has this very nice delivery lined up. I have done this same route except on a 39 foot catamaran. This will be a luxury cruise in comparison. The crew need to know what they are doing and you have to remember this is a new boat so you have to keep the boat very clean and might not sue some of the heads etc. Also OPOOPO is a pro skipper who expects a bit more from crew. This is an easy trip as there are no storms in the south Atlantic after you leave Capetown. St. Helena’s is one of those places that used to be very hard to get to, but I hear they now have an airport. But a great bucket list opportunity to visit a remote island. ALL FLIGHTS PAID I am the Factory Delivery Skipper for Balance Catamarans, an extremely high end yacht competing with the former Gunboat, HH in the luxury cruising/racing segment of the industry. I am looking for 2 well qualified offshore sailors for this unique opportunity. The sail is approximately 5400 miles and should take about 5 weeks, or less if we can cruise in the teens as this boat is designed to do. It will be summer in the S. Atlantic so temperatures should be moderate. Crew MUST be able to stand solo watch, mind the sails, instruments, weather, ship traffic and be keen and observant at all times. Planned stops in St Helena and Fortaleza, Brazil. The trip is free and flights to and from the boat are covered. Please send your sailing resume, personal bio and references to: XXXXX@XXXX .
|
5/1/2019 from Marathon Florida Keys to Annapolis MD on a Endeavor 42
OPO e-mail # 19-18 Boat owner OPOOPO is looking for crew moving her Endeavor 42 from the Florida Keys to Annapolis Maryland area. She has hired a very experienced friend and delivery skipper named Andy McDonnell. He has many miles, my age, and sounds like he knows what he is doing. Most importantly, has approved of taking OPO members as 3rd and 4th crew. OPOOPO is looking for one or two more crew to help make this two week passage, so the skipper, OPOOPO , plus one or two OPO members. The plan is to sail mostly offshore to Beaufort NC and then take the Intra-coastal waterway to Norfolk Virginia (about 3 to 4 days inside) and then up to the Annapolis area. Crew could get off in Norfolk if you running out of time.
The Boat is an Endeavor 42 which is a strong production built boat. OPOOPO has lived aboard and she and her husband (soon to be ex) have gotten the boat in great shape. She is keeping the boat and he is not. He knows the hired skipper who is also a mutual friend and also knows the boat. So a friendly process to get the boat moved.
The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat and have money for any shore side stops and meals along the way. OPOOPO is doing a lot of cooking and prep work in the galley and says crew will eat well. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO with a sailing resume and contact information at McC XXXXX@XXXX
|
6/15/2019 from Bodo, Norway to Tromso, Tromso on a cutter
OPO e-mail # 19-16 Svalbard and Svalbard-Iceland - I have been e-mailing with boat owner and skipper OPOOPO about his passages this summer. He has bought a boat in Norway and is going to get her ready for the trip to his homeport in Iceland. Here are his plans straight from his fingers as he e-mailed me what he is looking to do. This sounds like a good adventurous opportunity for the right crew. He sent me pictures of the boat and she is built for this trip and looks in great shape. OPOOPO will fly to the boat early to get her ready. While the departure dates are still a bit up in the air, ideally I would think you would want to offer to help get the boat ready by arriving early. You will read that OPOOPO has lots of offshore sailing experience and has crew for some of the three legs. The trip is free and if you can help get the boat ready and have offshore experience OPOOPO will pay all onboard expenses. If you can only make one leg or can’t help as much he asks to help pay for provisions only. I think this is very fair. As usual you do need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO at XXXXX@XXXX with a sailing resume and contact information so you can ask more questions. He can also send you pictures of the boat.
Here is what OPOOPO e-mail most recently.
“The boat is in Bodo Norway. She is a Koopmans 44 aluminum hull pilothouse cutter built by Hutting in Holland in 1991 (I attach some pics). I live in Iceland and will be flying to Bodo on May 30. I haul the boat out on June 3-5. Fitting out thereafter should be a week to 10 days. So the plan is to leave Bodo for the Lofoten islands around mid-June and arrive in Tromso around the first week of July. Then leave Tromso mid-July for Svalbard. Leave Svalbard around the first week of August for Iceland. Arrive in Reykjavik around mid to end of August.
The dates are all flexible but the general ballpark dates are set so as to get to Reykjavik by the end of August. I am looking for one or two more crew for each of the three passages, i.e. Bodo-Tromso, Tromso-Svalbard and Svalbard-Iceland. I have some interested people but nothing confirmed with flights as yet, so the plan is open. Most likely I will be joined by my friend Tom who is a professional sailor from Malta for the first and last passage, and his father John who is also a professional sailor for the first and second passage.
About me: I am 47 and half Maltese half American. I hold a RYA Yachtmasters Offshore license and will be using the passages to prepare for the Yachtmasters Ocean exam by using celestial navigation so anyone keen on celestial will be a bonus on the trip. Tom will be doing the same. I sailed from California through Panama and across the Atlantic twice.
About the boat: I have just bought her so this will be my first sail on her. She will be equipped with everything necessary navigation-wise (AIS, Radar, Iridium-GO, Raymarine C-120 chart plotter, complete chart set in paper and on OpenCPN electronic) and safety-wise (life raft, immersion suit for every crew, inflatable life-vests, flares, DSC equipped VHF). She has new sails and will have new batteries and wiring before we leave. The boat is solid.
I will cover all expenses for the boat, but my thought was that the crew will help with food; however this can be waived also. The crew, as you say, will need to cover their flights. The crew will need to come prepared with the right clothing for the North Atlantic - I can give details on this to anyone interested.
|
6/1/2019 from Brunswick, Georgia to Newfoundland on a Chris White Atlantic 57 Catamaran
OPO e-mail # 19-15 Owners - We are OPOOPO, a married couple in our 50’s. OPOOPO has a lengthy sailing background with over 65,000 miles under sail on yachts from 27’ to 190’ and has in the past earned various credentials including USCG 200 Ton Master, Yachtmaster Ocean Commercial, MCA Officer of the Watch 3,000 Ton and full STCW qualifications. She has sailed 20,000 miles as well. We recently purchased a 2009 Chris White Atlantic 57 catamaran with plans for extended cruising starting with one or two seasons on the East Coast US/Canada/Caribbean. The Yacht - We bought Boundless in December 2018. She is a light, fast, and comfortable catamaran in excellent condition. We are just completing a purchase refit which includes new standing rigging, new watermaker, interior refinishing, new forward and aft cockpit awnings, a new Cell/Sat Comms package, cleaning the fuel tanks, renewing the black water systems and various other details. All the safety equipment has been refreshed or renewed. The sails are a lightly used three years old, the steering system, engines, and electrical system are in great condition, and the full Furuno electronics package while original from 2009 is working well. We have four sleeping cabins and two full heads. Boundless is a lot of fun to sail and takes good care of her crew. The Program - We are planning a trip from Brunswick, Georgia to Newfoundland departing June 1. To the extent that the weather cooperates and that it is safe and mostly comfortable to do so we will try to make the trip in one passage, but won’t hesitate to stop in if needed. At roughly 1,600 miles we expect the trip to take about nine days, though passage timing planning in a yacht which can suddenly maintain 15 knots when the wind comes right is a bit tricky. We are not racing sailors, but we like to make swift and efficient passages and arrive with the boat in good shape. We generally stand solo watches, though any required sail handling and maneuvers will mostly be done with the captain on deck. We run the yacht family style, everybody pitches in for everything - preparation, sailing, maintenance, cooking, cleanup, the whole program. We generally eat mostly plain fresh foods simply prepared, and very little meat. We of course run a drug free boat, and there is no alcohol consumption underway. The Crew - We are looking for one or two people to sail with us on this passage. The first qualification is non-smoking; this is very important to us - genuinely non-smoking people who haven’t just gone cold turkey, or those who will sneak a cigarette ashore or any time they think they can onboard. After that we are looking for easy-going people with a love of the sea, a sense of humor, and good physical fitness and agility. Cooking skills a huge bonus! Some sailing experience is required, we strongly prefer not to take people on their first offshore trip - please have one of those already and ideally a reference letter from that captain. Enough knowledge of boats and sailing in general to treat Boundless well is very helpful. You will have a private cabin and a shared head. We pay for all expenses on board, and may assist with travel costs on a case-by-case basis. Ideally we can meet in person or have a video call on Skype or FaceTime to finalize a mutual decision to sail together. Looking forward to meeting some great people! If Interested please send an e-mail with your sailing resume to XXXXX@XXXX and also send me pictures, but I did not include them in this e-mail. You can exchange pictures and more information if you contact him and are interested in joining them.
|
6/6/2019 from Norfolk, VA to Mt. Desert Island, Maine (Acadia National Park) on a Cheoy Lee
OPO e-mail # 19-33 Boat owner and USC OPOOPO OPOOPO is looking for 1 more crew to sail with him and another OPO member from Norfolk to Mt. OPOOPO ME. He has gotten crew from us before and it’s worked out well. The boat is a 42’ OPOOPO schooner that he has sailed on the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico from Texas to Canada. She is fully equipped, including all safety gear and Garmin InReach for communications with family while offshore.
They would like for the crew to arrive Norfolk on June 6, and can accommodate them at their home on OPOOPO Bay should arrive prior to the crew’s scheduled flight out from OPOOPO ME. The passage should take 5 to 12 days, depending on the early summer conditions. Take note of the potential for cold and come appropriately equipped - Roger will be happy to advize on what gear you should bring. The trip is free with all onboard expenses included. Transportation to and from the boat is the crews responsibility.
If interested please email Roger at XXXXX@XXXX ,
|
5/15/2019 from Fort Pierce FL to Cotuit Cape Cod MA on a Catana 42
OPO e-mail # 19-29 Boat owner OPOOPO is looking for one or two additional crew to take his boat from OPOOPO FL to OPOOPO Cod MA starting around mid- May. Fred has a Catana 42 S catamaran. Fred has done the trip twice before and has used OPO members successfully. He e-mails:
“This is OPOOPO who has had two successful OPO supported trips south on my Catana 42 S sailing catamaran. Last year I had crew from my yacht club, but this year they have scheduling conflicts. Can you please post a request for this passage. It usually takes 10 days approximately though last year we did it in 8 days to Martha’s Vineyard. We travel outside in the ocean when conditions permit until OPOOPO or Moore-head city , then through the ICW to Norfolk after which we go directly to the Cape or via the Chesapeake and OPOOPO and up the Jersey coast and through LI sound.”
The passage is fee with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please send your sailing resume to Ken at XXXXX@XXXX
|
5/21/2019 from Charleston, SC to Barrington, RI on a Catamaran
OPO E-Mail # 19-36 OPO Member OPOOPO is seeking 2 crewmembers to join him on a trip from Charleston, SC to Barrington, RI. He plans to leave on May 21st. The boat is a new 38 foot SeaWind 11.60 Lite sailing Catamaran. OPOOPO plans on the trip taking 2 weeks with some stops along the way. Crew are responsible for their transportation to and from the boat. If interested contact OPOOPO at XXXXX@XXXX
|
5/4/2019 from Freeport, Grand Bahama to City Island, NY on a C40
OPO e-mail # 19-26 10 days. Expenses are provided onboard. Waiting for the weather window might be enjoyable since the boat is at a marina near the Taino Beach Resort, where crew will have resort privileges. The boat is a C and C40, which until last year belonged to OPO captain Andrew OPOOPO. The engine is new, and it has autopilot, AIS, etc. It is well-equipped, but the C and C40 is more of a racing boat than a cruiser, so accommodations are comfortable but limited. (There is one stateroom for the v-berth, an aft-berth open to the salon, and bunks on the settees.) He carries an in-reach for emergency SOS, weather updates offshore, and for tracking. A 61 year-old professor, he has been sailing most of his life, and has gained offshore experience by crewing many deliveries. He has gotten crew twice before from OPO. Crew should be able to stand watches and assist with cooking and cleaning. Preference will be given to crew who can take 2-3 weeks off, as waiting for a weather window is unpredictable. Please send expressions of interest, along with a sailing resume, to XXXXX@XXXX “ As usual he explains onboard food and expenses are included and you need to get to and from the boat. But also understand that you may spend a few days waiting and will need money for meals and drinks ashore if you have a few days in the Bahamas. He is inviting you, not adopting you. Enjoy the wait and the sail and meeting new sailors. *For those who do not know OPOOPO he is a well-known delivery skipper who also writes for Cruising World Magazine. He started the Swan Program in the 1990’s and we took it over in 2000. He recently bought a Baltic 47 and offers to take people offshore like we do. Nice guy with lots of miles.
|
5/11/2019 from St. Maarten to Newport on a Beneteau 57'
OPO e-mail # 19-34 Pro charter skipper and boat owner OPOOPO is looking for a replacement crew since he had a crew cancel on him recently. He sent us the following short e-mail. I told him I would send it out right now since it is short notice. You can ask him for more details but you know this is a big boat and the skipper is experienced. He plans a non -stop passage and is looking for experienced crew. The trip will take about 9 or 10 days at most, but always good to have a couple of extra days just in case. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO with a sailing resume and more questions you may have. “I had a crew cancellation for my trip north from St Martin to Newport prepping to go on May 11. I was wondering how I could get it circulated to your group. 2004 57’ Beneteau Center Cockpit “Starlifht.” I’ve done the back and forth 6 times now. Charter boat, owner operated. Direct from SXM to St Maarten. 3 total crew and solo watches. I would prefer crew with offshore experience. Expenses paid. Sailing resume required. Resume to: XXXXX@XXXX
|
12/11/2018 from Charleston SC to Cape Canaveral FL on a Bavaria
OPO e-mail # 18-128 Paula and OPOOPO are looking for crew for the next leg from Charleston to OPOOPO They know it is short notice so are offering a travel stipend. We have gotten more information about the boat and also spoke with an OPO member who crewed with them last month. He says they are nice folks and very accommodating to crew who join them. The last two crew requests we sent out were also on short notice so we have not been able to get a lot of information about the opportunity since we do not waste time when it is short notice. However since this is the 3rd time they are asking we have gotten more information which we have included below. We also have a phone number since it might be a good idea to call if you want to join them. We all know it is a long shot at this time of year, but this is a nice boat and you will have your own cabin. You may also want to ask about their next leg of the trip which I think will be from Florida to the Bahamas. We imagine we will get another crew request after they get to Florida, but you may be able to get on their list of crew for future legs by asking now. Here is what Paula sent us on Saturday, but ended up in our junk folder until we found it this morning.
Here is the itinerary:
Tuesday: leave SC to OPOOPO is approximately a 3 days -50 hours of sailing time at an approximate 6 knots. Fuel and supply and 1 night tie up. To arrive in OPOOPO (1) overnight sail.
In search for 2 crew member for quick delivery.
We realize it’s last min notice so we are willing to contribute $www.UUUUU.com towards travel expenses.
Boat is a 2018-
OPEN-46' NAUTITECH BAVARIA SAILING CATAMARAN
owners version- 3 full cabins, 3 heads, 2 showers.
Main, OPOOPO and Geniqa - 2 electric winches and 1 manual.
2 salons, 1 teak dining table, twin helms, radar and AIS
B and G systems- watch can be preformed from inside salon.
Heat and AC with 20 mile radius internet access.
Solar panels, 2 6 person life rafts, e-pirb, 12 inflatable life jackets with harnesses, 6 person tender with life jackets.
Boat is in mint condition and still under warranty with updates being done regularly.
Fresh water maker, TV, full monitor with computer.
No drinking, smoking or pets while sailing.
Let me know if I missed something.
XXX-XXX-XXXX
Potential crew members may contact me via cell and email.
|
6/3/2019 from St. Petes, Florida to the Keys on a Antigua 53
OPO e-mail # 19-41 This is a pleasure cruise to shake down a new boat that OPO member OPOOPO has bought for his retirement. He sailed with me in the Swan Program and is a nice guy. He tells us more about his boat and his plans. He is looking for two crew to join his sail from St. Pete’s to Miami and back. He is flexible with crew and can have crew join him for part of his adventure. Since he is an OPO member he describes what he is looking to do very well and our members are welcome to contact him and see about joining him for part of the trip. Of course he does not want to make things too complicated but he can arrange to meet OPO members and have one or two crew changes or have crew join him as things seem to fit. Here are his intentions. Please e-mail him and ask about becoming part of this shakedown starting with June 3rd. Please e-mail him and see what works for all. His e-mail is OPOOPO XXXXX@XXXXX He will cover boat expenses, but since this is a pleasure cruise and not a forced march it would be nice to make sure you have money to pay for emails and socials ashore and maybe help pitch in for provisions if you want to really eat well. This is my 2 cents and not his idea, but there is no reason for a fellow OPO members to adopt you as his adult child
“I don’t know if you remember me or not. I sailed with you to the America’s Cup in Bermuda on your Swan “Avocation “. We stood watches together and I got to know you. I enjoyed our time together. I have been a part of your club since then. I am writing to tell that I am retiring at the end of this year with the Department of Defense after 38 years of service. I plan to do some serious passages. I have been upgrading and installing some systems on my Antigua 53 that make cruising comfortable. I need some help crewing in June. I have set aside several weeks to sail down the west coast of Florida to Key West and enjoy the islands. Weather permitting perhaps a sail up to Miami. Then all the way back to St. Petersburg where my boat is now. The boat has all of the bells and whistles, sat phone, ssb/Pactor modem, gen set, solar, wind, just installed a new RO watermaker system. Her sails are new. The rigging has just been inspected to include chain plates. I replaced the forestay because of a new electric Furler and radial sail system that I had my rigger install. The main system has a new electric in-boom Furlboom Furler. The Doyle main has 5 reefing point and battens. She even has a special pacific pilot plus wind vane for long passage steering, Her electronic systems are all new NMEA 2K networked with Simrad and BandG components, autopilot, AIS, and a forward looking sonar by Simrad. This sail in June is a prelude to some extended cruising up the coast and eventually the Caribbean. I wish I could have you come sail with me. But I know you are busy. Is this possible for some help crewing? Two people would be great. If not, one. Thanks. My plan is to depart St Pete 3 June, weather permitting. We should get to Key West by the weekend. We have planned several anchor or marina stops along the coast. When we get to the Key West area we have several keys that we plan to visit and that would include Marathon. Long day sails and some overnight passages. We plan return to St Pete by the 21st. Crew can get off at Key West if they choose. And someone could come into Key West and help us sail back to St Pete that last week.”
|
6/1/2019 from Bermuda to the Azores on a Amel SM
OPO e-mail # 19-11 This opportunity comes from an OPO member referral who has the same type of boat. OPOOPO and his wife are looking for another couple to join them for this passage and are welcome to stay an extra week on the boat in the Azores. Here is what Paul e-mailed us. The trip is free but you need to get to and from the boat and since you are staying an extra week you can offer to chip in for provisions if you want. If interested please contact Paul but understand that it may take him a day or two to get back since he has poor internet connections. Paul e-mails: “We are a Swedish couple who sail an Amel SM from 1999 named S OPOOPO . We have cruised extensively since 2015. We plan to sail back to Europe from Bermuda to the Azores, Departure around 1 of June 2019. Distance just short of 1800 Nm if the north route is chosen. guess it would take +/- 12 days, we plan to spend some time in OPOOPO and the crew can stay for a week or so to explore parts of the Azores if desired. We would prefer a couple with enough experience to handle a watch without the need to call the captain for instruction, but can reef and trim sail when needed. Reefing and trimming is simple as electrical furling on both main and the head sail. The reason for preference for a couple, we see the social side of crew as also an important issue. If no couple is available we would then go for one or two experienced persons male or female. We are easiest contacted by E-mail XXXXX@XXXX , we are currently in OPOOPO heading for OPOOPO Jamaica, Cuba, Bahamas, Bermuda, Azores, so sometimes our contact with Internet might be poor. You can find more about us on our blogg www.UUUUU.com OPOOPO Osterberg
|
5/29/2019 from St. Maarten to Huntington NY on a Amel 53
OPO e-mail # 19-13 Boat owner and skipper OPOOPO is looking for one more crew for a total or 4 crew for his annual passage back from the Caribbean. He has a very nice Amel 53 that he has owned for many years and has made this passage many times. He has also gotten crew from us in the past. Most of his crew are made up of OPO members that he has met through us and has kept in touch with. He is very safety conscious ad has the boat very well equipped. I have known him for many years. The trip is free but you as usual you need to get to and from the boat. He may sail straight through if the weather looks ok and the passage will take about 10 days after you leave, but plan a couple more days for weather delays or a stop in Bermuda if need be. If interested please send a short resume to him at XXXXX@XXXX
|
5/31/2019 from Martinique to Newport, RI on a Amel 53
OPO e-mail # 19-14 Boat owner and captain OPOOPO is looking for one and possibly two experienced off-shore crew for his annual trip north. OPOOPO has owned this boat since new and takes pride in ownership and keeping things proper and shipshape. He has gotten crew from us before. He does expect the crew to be easy on the boat and treat it like they would their own home. He does a good job of describing himself and the boat so we copied and pasted his request. He will likely stop in Bermuda for fuel and will stay for a few days if the weather is iffy for the last leg. The Amel 53 is a very easy boat to sail and very comfortable. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO at XXXXX@XXXX . Ideal Crew On May 31, I plan to sail from Martinique, to Newport, RI. My boat is LADYBUG, a well found, fully equipped 53 Amel ketch. I will stop in Bermuda for a day or two if there is a reason to do so. The voyage to Bermuda should take about 8-10 days, and the voyage from Bermuda to Newport about 5 days. The trip could take several days longer or less depending on the strength of the Azores/Bermuda high and the trade winds south of Bermuda. In Martinique, the crew will be welcome, indeed encouraged, to arrive a few days before departure and stay on the boat at its berth at the marina in the village of Le Marin. I will require a sailing resume and references. The crew will share a two bunk state room and head. I will provide the food and costs during the voyage. My ideal crew of two would have the following characteristics: 1. Physically fit and healthy (not over-weight), no blood thinner medicines, 2. No problem with seasickness (this is important.), 3. No special diet, 4. No smoking, and this is a dry boat-until arrival, 5. Must be experienced in off-shore sailing, each person will do a solo watch. 6. Be familiar with mechanical things and modern navigation equipment. 7. Be interested in many things, don’t be a fanatic of any kind. 8. Share the food preparation and cleaning. I had the boat built in La Rochelle in 1998. I have sailed it approximately 60,000 miles. This includes 3 transatlantic trips, numerous times to Bermuda and the Caribbean down to Trinidad and up to Canada, from England to the Mediterranean and all over the Mediterranean during the 8 years that I lived on the boat in Port Grimaud in southern France. I replaced the boat engine 3 years ago and the rigging last winter. This winter, the electric motors for the sail controls and the motors for the two auto-helms were rebuilt. The sails were new last year.
|
2/2/2019 from Turks and Caicos to Puerto Rico on a Amel 53
OPO e-mail # 18-131 Boat owner and skipper OPOOPO is looking for one or two crew who would like to join him for a passage from the Turks and Caicos to Puerto Rico on his Amel 53 Super Maramu. This is a very comfortable offshore boat and very easy to sail. OPOOPO has owned the boat for a little over a year and has logged about 3,500 miles on the boat during that time, sailing it from Martinique to New England, and back south again. He and his family have recently begun sailing the boat full time, and are currently in the Bahamas.
OPOOPO has been sailing for over 10 years, most of which has been in the Caribbean and Maine New England Coast. OPOOPO is competent with diesel engine repair, marine electronics, and has done most of the outfitting on the boat himself. OPOOPO is a physician, but he is taking a 2 - 3 year sabbatical to sail with his family. He is not planning to have his wife and two daughters join him on the passage from Turks and Caicos to Puerto Rico, and is therefore looking for one or two additional crew. The passage will be approximately 450 miles offshore, weather permitting. Weather routing will be provided by Chris Parker.
The boat is in excellent condition and has proven to be a very comfortable boat in heavy weather. Sails are new, as well as having updated navigational, safety, and communications equipment. SSB and Iridium Go Satellite are onboard, and radar was updated in 2018.
Watermaker produces 60L/hr. Fuel range is approximately 1500miles. Liferaft and safety equipment are all up to date or new as of 2018.
Crew would be needed beginning approximately February 2, and the passage will take approximately 4 - 6 days. Departure may be delayed by several days due to weather. Port of entry is expected to be Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.
The trip is free with all onboard expenses paid for, but you need to get to and from the boat. If interested please e-mail OPOOPO with a brief sailing resume and your contact information at
XXXXX@XXXX
SV Soteria
Currently in Central Exumas
|
12/3/2018 from Norfolk Va to St. Maarten on a Alden 54
Revised dates for # 18-124 This is just in today from Captain and owner OPOOPO He comes to us recommended by two good references who both say this is an excellent boat and Richard is a nice guy. He is looking for one replacement crew since he lost a crew do to time constraints.
“I’m now docked in Norfolk with 3 crew onboard and I was ready to depart Monday but are now delayed due to poor offshore sea conditions. Weather and Chris Parker’s forecast looks good to depart on Thursday but one crew member cannot stay until then and still be able make the 9-10-11 day passage sailing offshore to OPOOPO
OPOOPO am looking for a sailor with offshore experience who can be here to Norfolk by Wednesday so to sail offshore to Norfolk to OPOOPO for 10-11 days. Crew needs a valid U OPOOPO life vest with harness and safety tether, be able to sail and stand night watches, and have offshore experience.
The yacht is a US made ALDEN 54 center cockpit sloop, designed for offshore passages, is well equipped with modern electronics and offshore safety gear. The passage will take less than 2 weeks.
The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. There is no drinking onboard so wait until we get ashore in OPOOPO - Captain's treat.
If interested please e-mail Richard with your sailing resume at” M XXXXX@XXXX
Thanks,
OPOOPO Captain and Owner
SEA CLOUD
|
11/29/2018 from Norfolk Va to St. Maarten on a Alden 54
OPO e-mail # 18-124 This is just in late yesterday from Captain and owner OPOOPO He comes to us recommended by two good references who both say this is an excellent boat and Richard is a nice guy. He is looking for one replacement crew since he lost a crew do to time constraints.
“I’m now docked in Norfolk with 3 crew onboard and I was ready to depart Monday but are now delayed due to poor offshore sea conditions. Weather and Chris Parker’s forecast looks good to depart on Thursday but one crew member cannot stay until then and still be able make the 9-10-11 day passage sailing offshore to OPOOPO
OPOOPO am looking for a sailor with offshore experience who can be here to Norfolk by Wednesday so to sail offshore to Norfolk to OPOOPO for 10-11 days. Crew needs a valid U OPOOPO life vest with harness and safety tether, be able to sail and stand night watches, and have offshore experience.
The yacht is a US made ALDEN 54 center cockpit sloop, designed for offshore passages, is well equipped with modern electronics and offshore safety gear. The passage will take less than 2 weeks.
The trip is free with all onboard expenses included, but you need to get to and from the boat. There is no drinking onboard so wait until we get ashore in OPOOPO - Captain's treat.
If interested please e-mail Richard with your sailing resume at” M XXXXX@XXXX
Thanks,
OPOOPO Captain and Owner
SEA CLOUD
|
2/15/2019 from Jacksonville to St. Maarten on a 35’ Fountaine Pujot Tobago Catamaran
OPO e-mail # 19-02 We met OPOOPO in Newport at the start of the NARC Rally last October. He was not looking to join a rally, but was looking for crew to head down the coast. He is now in Florida and looking for the right weather window after about February 15th to sail to St. Maarten. But you can join him for part of the passage and do not have to commit to the entire trip. He knows he will be sailing upwind so will wait for the proper front to come through to get easting and then make a couple of stops when needed. He and I spoke this week. He is a very nice guy. He e-mails: As we discussed, I’m in Jacksonville Beach on my 35’ Fountaine Pujot Tobago catamaran about 3-4 weeks away from heading towards St Maarten. I’ll be waiting for an optimal weather window which would have me leaving a day or two before a “northerly”, riding it as far east as possible then tacking southeast, hopefully making land somewhere between Turks and Cacaos and the Virgin Islands. I’m looking for crew who’s looking to share in the adventure. I’d like anyone who volunteers to remain onboard until reaching at least San Juan, PR at which point I could single-handle the rest of the way, but of course they’d be more than welcome to continue onward to my final destination. Anyone willing to do so would be more than welcome to stay on board for a few days once reaching St Maarten to relax and recover. All expenses onboard (food/beverages) will be covered. Must have passport. About the boat: She’s a 1994 3 cabin single head Fountaine Pujot Tobago with all new systems, including new engines, mast, standing rigging, sails, batteries, wiring and electronics (including chart plotter, sonar and radar). She handled her shake-out cruise from Newport, RI to Jacksonville, Fl like a champ reaching speeds over 13 knots! About the captain: I’m a young and semi-retired electrical engineer/software developer with 30+ years of sailing experience looking forward to exploring the leeward and windward islands. I’ve sailed the Philippines, southern California, south Florida and the keys with experience sailing from San Juan, PR to Daytona Beach. My most recent experience has been sailing from Newport, RI to Jacksonville Beach, Fl. All volunteers are encouraged to email their sailing resume’s to me at XXXXX@XXXXX, the more experience the better.
|
5/30/2019 from Grenada to South Pacific on a SV Alkemi a 47’ Malo
OPO E-Mail # 19-37 OPOOPO is the owner of SV Alkemi a 47’ Malo. He is looking for crew to join him on a cruise to the South Pacific. Owner writes: I am OPOOPO - owner of SV Alkemi a 47’ Malo and joined by my dog Nellie (5 yr Golden Retriever) . I am looking for watch capable sailor(s) to join me for part or more of my cruise to the South Pacific. Currently, I am anchored at Hog Island Grenada. I plan to sail to Bonaire around the end of May. Alkemi will cruise Bonaire, Curacao, and Aruba till end of June and then sail to Santa Marta, Columbia. After a couple of months exploring Columbia, we then plan to cruise Panama’s San Blas Sept-Dec. In late January 2020, I plan to cross Panama Canal and head for Marquesas. If you are interested please contact me by e-mail XXXXX@XXXX
|
