In my teens and 20s, I prided myself on an active membership in the OPB (Other People’s Boats) Club. Why, I wondered aloud to anyone who would listen, would I bother to own a boat when there were so many underutilized vessels available to borrow?
As a spunky teenager, I once called an owner (collect) to ask if I could take out his J/30 for an evening sail with a few friends. After what you might call a pregnant pause, he replied, “Well, if you’re asking, you’re probably qualified.” We had a lovely sail and returned his boat better than we found her.
As a serious and loyal one design crew, I continued sailing other people’s boats well into my 30s. It was only once I took on an Olympic campaign that boat ownership (and maintenance) became a key part of my success.
Whether racing or cruising there is joy in ownership, which offers control of both the quality level and the schedule. And since logistics and boat tweaks are two of my strengths, I am a pretty good boat owner. But this year, no longer responsible for anything larger than a Snipe, I find myself circling back to the OPB club for summer cruising adventures.
By next summer, we will likely have welcomed another vessel into the family. For now, though, I’m going to revel in the chance to try out a variety of craft without the worries of launching, hauling, and keeping up the varnish to a certain standard: back to the flexibility of the OPB Club.
How about you: how is your boating season shaping up so far? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send me an email. I read every single one, with gratitude. Happy high summer, and see you next week!
