Monthly Report
2007 SBSS Launch Festival
May 14, 07
Saturday, April 7, Launch Day!...started a bit rainy in the morning but it cleared off by the time the crowds starting arriving at about noon for the two o'clock graduation ceremony and boat launching. This day is the culmination of six months work on the part of students, the chance to see their project come to life in her element. It's also a very welcome break after the final intense few weeks work and worry over the hundreds of tiny details that complete each vessel.
All the boats spent the morning on display in the Silva Bay Resort parking lot, some receiving a few final rigging details. The Mower Dory was the first boat to get wet, as always the tide was low and it's a slippery hike to the waters edge, but many hands make light work. Jon, Beau, and Bill did a great job in having the boat ready to sail, but of course the wind disappeared, so they got in some rowing.
Next in was the Speedboat, wheeled into the water on a trailer. Peter, Adam, Greg, and Zach were able to get aboard and borrow a small outboard to really try her out. The boat met all expectations and spent the rest the afternoon ferrying various parties about Silva Bay. The designer even got to use her for a bit, great job guys!
The Gartside went in next, with her dramatic black sails and bright topsides set off with a cherry interior, the boat is a standout. Still no wind but the boat maintained steerage in some light eddies, indicating serious sailing potential. Damian, Lorenzo, and Brandon can be very proud of this lovely boat.
Last but far from least (though she is shortest) Willow, the William Garden designed Tomcat went into the water. Alex, David, and Bob did an outstanding job of this large but short boat, she proved a favorite for the day and grows on us as time passes.
Each of these projects was ably directed and overseen by School Manager Les, and instructors Al and Trevor, special thanks to our staff from myself and the entire SBSS Board of Directors, well done.
Saturday showed everyone that the boats would float, and Sunday we found out how they sailed. The dory and the Gartside are about even speed wise and will be closely matched barring navigational or tactical errors. Jon skippered the Dory to solid lead and a win in the second annual Silva Bay Launch Festival boat race.
My thanks to all who participated.
(Tad Roberts)
To see more boats built at SBSS, please visit the Archive pages.
Boat Launch 2007
This day is the culmination of six months work on the part of students, the chance to see their project come to life in her element. It's also a very welcome break after the final intense few weeks work and worry over the hundreds of tiny details that complete each vessel.