Boston —> Scituate <> AS 106 Course

Captain Paul Sullivan

We had an epic sail today from Boston to Scituate, making the most of a classic summer sea breeze and using it as a chance to practice some solid sail trim skills along the way. ⸻ 🌬️ Weather & Wind The day started with a steady southwesterly around 10–12 knots leaving Boston, which gradually built to 14–17 knots as we made our way toward Scituate. Seas were light early on but built slightly offshore, giving us a nice ride without being uncomfortable. ⸻ ⛵ Sailing & Trim We began on a beam reach, making great time down the coast past Minots Ledge Light. As the breeze freshened, we trimmed in and eventually put a single reef in the main to stay balanced and in control- no weather helm! The boat felt great—stiff, steady, and responsive with the reduced sail. The rest of the passage was mostly close-hauled. We focused on clean tacks and sail trim, using vang tension, out haul, and mainsheet/ traveler adjustments to flatten the sail, twist the sail, and reduce heel when needed. The breeze kept us moving consistently and made for some fun upwind work. ⸻ 📐 Laylines & Approach As we neared Scituate, we discussed laylines and planned our final tacks carefully to avoid overstanding. We managed to nail the final approach—just one tack into the harbor, right on time. ⸻ ⚓ Harbor Entry We kept sails up as we entered the harbor, easing sheets to slow the boat and maintain control. It was a great chance to talk through how to sail into tight quarters with confidence- best to take boats sterns and avoid getting your jeep near mooring chains. Once in the mooring field, we furled the jib on a deep broad reach, turned head to wind, luffed the main, and picked up the mooring cleanly under sail. ⸻ We’re moored now for the night—tired in the best way. Great wind, good learning, and a rewarding sail down the coast.

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