Notice:
The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.
Hi All - moving Selkie from Westbrook CT to Mystic area. I need recommendations on two fronts:
1. Marinas. Narrowed to Noank Village Boatyard, Mystic Shipyard or perhaps Spicers. Anyone have an opinion? Anyone suggest alternative?
2. Racing. I did a few races this summer with Duck Island Yacht Club, and found the experience less than optimum. Fact is, I have a Catalina 25 i bought for 5 grand and am far more interested in sailing it than I am in the psychological issues of people who opt for 'racing' instead of therapy. SO - where do I go in Mystic area for some good fun in racing, where my net worth is measured in boat speed and not pathetic start line swagger?
I'll get some info on races from a friend who races an older Tartan 27. I know there are Wed. night races outside of the Mystic River, and weekend events off Stonington and New London, but I don't know who organizes them.
Another marina you might want to check out is [url="https://sites.google.com/a/masonsislandmarina.net/home/"]Masons Island Marina[/url]--a smaller family operation that's super friendly and kinda funky but less expensive than the ones you mentioned (where the big guys stay). It's a few more minutes to the sound than from Noank Village, but also more protected from major storms. I think there are a couple of C-25s there now. I kept mine there, and store my current boat there over the winter--mostly because they take very good care of me--I feel like a friend there. Go across the causeway onto Masons Island, bear right at the first Y, and watch for a white fence on your right. Ask for Jack (the owner) and tell him I sent you. (I get nothing.)
Welcome to the best jumping-off location with more destinations than almost anywhere! (And on Fishers Island Sound, you'll find yourself in a "race" every time you go out!)
Friend of mine is at Mystic Shipyards East and he loves it there. It's a wee bit up the harbor, but sailing past Noank and Mason Island is an adventure in itself. The marina is a natural hurricane hole, so it is well-protected on all sides. Not sure how it compares on rates with the others, but is a well-established and reputable facility.
I absolutely respect all the suggestions given by others towards the Mystic River confines. I will offer up my current home which is the Thames Yacht Club in New London. While not as secluded as the Mystic it is right at the mouth of the Thames and the sound. Clubhouse, white sand beach and a non-stuffy atmosphere with members willing to help at any turn. Plus, and this year was my first doing it with the Cat 25, Wednesday night racing. Typically 3 classes, Ensigns, spin and non-spin. Maybe 20 boats total on any given night. Yes we interact with ferries and subs but it's all part of the game. I believe I am 1 of 2 Cat 25's but maybe with 3 we can get our own class. Sorry, getting carried away. I just flew a chute the other day for the first time and can't wait for the spin season next year. Jon H. p.s. I think there is always a bit of 'swagger'. Some just swag more than others.
I looked into Mason's Island Marina, Dave, and told them I was calling at your suggestion. I can see from charts and google maps where they are and will go to look at them tomorrow. I also like the idea of Mystic Shipyards East - but am questioning whether i can get a keelboat into a slip over there. Woman on phone said YES, and their price and amenities are solid - but I want to go look tomorrow and actually SEE a keelboat on those docks.
As for racing, think I will approach mudheads and see what's up. in any event, i think I am done with westbrook area - keep an eye out for SELKIE in Mystic area soon
Bruce--you went right past Masons Island Marina on your way in--the place where I kept Passage (fin keel). I never had trouble getting that far, but saw enough at extra-low tides to be glad I didn't have to go further.
Steve--I talked to my friend, and as I suspected, the Mystic Mudheads are the center of gravity for racing around here. I take it you found their site.
Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ. The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.