by
Some info.
I sail at Coyote Point in the week. Send about 1 1/2 a day out at the
channel markers which are quite a ways out. There is usually not a sole
around when I sail and I see only the occasional sailboat.
It has worried me for a while that if I shatter my boom jumping the
swell I'm screwed. The other issue is that for some reason the mob at
Coyote stay close to shore in general, who knows why as I find most of
the people at this site to be a royal pain, those at Embassy suites
launch 1/2 mile north seem charming, strange. No manners, shitty
sailors with attitudes and love sailing in that lull at the end of
bluff, they are smart as well! rant over.
I spoke with the Coast Guard Communications person last week regarding
this issue. They are very helpful, especially when you are trying to be
safety conscious. I bought a $170 (Garmin 720) marine radio from West
Marine in South City. It is submersible and when you remove the
antenna, fairly small. They also sell a small pouch that clips around
your waist( the brand is Cascade Designs, they just list Seattle, WA).
ASD at Coyote point sells a small water proof container that the radio
fits into if you take the antenna off. Ask John at ASD, he knows the
one. Brace the radio with bubble wrap in the container as it will keep
it secure and protected from jumping all the time.
I carry this small pack on the back of my harness. It measures about 9'
x 5'. Amazingly with the little radio pack it braces against your
harness and you don't even know it is clipped on. I also carry a 5 mile
strobe, cord, flare and a whistle. Two guys at the North Tower of the
GGB tried the pack yesterday and both were amazed you don't even know it
is on, doesn't drag, bounce or twist.
It makes sailing under the bridge at Crissy on a great ebb not a worry
when nobody is around. Also gives being in the middle of the bay in the
week a whole lot greater piece of mind.
On the Coast Guard. The radio I bought is a 3 watt. They said that is
more than sufficient to contact them or any other boat in the vicinity.
Receiving tower is at Yuerba Buena island.
The strobe is also a good idea, if you have to leave your rig you can
always find it later.
Hope this helps.
Edward
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