Home Part 2!

Despite the threatening weather, Spirit of Buffalo departed Wardell's in N. Tonawanda today at 10 AM and arrived at RCR Yachts this afternoon to a small but very welcoming (and welcomed) party! The vessel is sporting her shiny, newly-sprayed masts and booms, gaffs and sails will go on over the next few days. Maybe you caught a glimpse of her headed down the Niagara River while driving on the 190 today? It was so fun to "sail" along the stretch of road I so often drive, while daydreaming of bringing the boat that way.

Photos of the mast stepping will follow soon!

Home!

After 1,500+ miles - from Georgetown, SC to Buffalo, NY - the vessel and crew finally made their arrival in Amherst, NY on Wednesday, May 6. Much of the family was able to join the boat in Lockport, NY to finish the long voyage with Capt. Rich and his canal crew, Chris and Nicki. It was a wonderful reunion.

Currently, the rig is being prepped and painted thanks to our friends at Hadley Exhibits and our hope is for it to go up by mid-week. At that point, look up for Kate and Rich, as we will be spending many hours rigging, replacing hardware and rigging, bending on sail, checking fairleads, splicing splicing and more splicing.

BUOE and Buffalo Sailing Adventures continue to confirm bookings and make final preparations for our respective programming seasons. BUOE in particular continues to build on its long wishlist of materials and equipment; if you think you have some items of use, give us a call!

Lake Crossing

The Spirit and crew (now comprised of Rich, Chris and new crewmate Nicki) crossed Oneida Lake this morning and are in fine shape. Greenhand Chris is Rich's permanent "bow man", having mastered the art of line-tending through the lock system. We thank him for his documentary skills, as well. Nicki, a family friend, is very excited to be aboard and reminisces of travels in Central America as they traverse the Canal. (That might be a first.) And Rich looks forward to smooth sailing as they get closer to home.