Zosca’s Maiden Sail in SF Bay: A Father’s Day to Remember
Ahoy, fellow sailors and adventurers! Today’s tale is one for the books. It’s Father’s Day 2024, and we’ve just embarked on Zosca’s – Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 449 – maiden sail in the San Francisco Bay Area. This short sail held a deeper significance, marking the culmination of a journey that began over 18 months ago. Join us as we reflect on our adventure and celebrate Zosca’s new chapter with the Spinnaker Sailing Club.
A Long and Winding Journey
The Spark of an Idea
In November 2022, my friend and I decided to buy a sailing boat—not just for personal pleasure, but as a business to rent out. As avid sailors with a knack for boat maintenance, we realized that a charter business would be the perfect way to combine our passions.
The Perfect Vessel Design
By January 2023, after countless hours of research and late-night discussions, we zeroed in on the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 449. Its size, berth capacity, and offshore capabilities made it the ideal choice for our needs.
The Search Begins
From February 2023, we scoured the markets, expanding our search to Europe and the Caribbean due to the scarcity and higher prices of available boats in California and the opportunity of the adventure to sail to California. In March 2023, we found Zosca – Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 449 – in the US Virgin Islands, and by April 2023, we had closed the deal.
Preparations and Setbacks
In May 2023, we began equipping Zosca for offshore sailing. Our first attempt to sail her home in July 2023 was thwarted by weather and malfunctions, but we remained undeterred. We prepared for a second attempt in autumn 2023 and successfully sailed her to Florida in December 2023, covering 1,051 nautical miles.
The Final Leg
Our plan to sail Zosca to Houston and transport her by land to California was disrupted by storms, so we adjusted our course to St. Petersburg, Florida. From there, we shipped Zosca and awaited her arrival in San Francisco.
A New Beginning in San Francisco Bay
Now, on this beautiful Father’s Day in June 2024, Zosca is finally part of the Spinnaker Sailing fleet in the SF Bay Area. As we set sail, the sun shining down and the wind filling our sails, the significance of this moment wasn’t lost on us. It took over a year and a half of planning, setbacks, and perseverance to bring Zosca here.
A Sail to Remember
Our first sail in the bay was short but sweet. The familiar landmarks of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island were a stunning backdrop as we navigated the waters. The sense of accomplishment and joy was palpable. Zosca handled it beautifully, reaffirming that all our hard work and preparation had paid off.
Zosca’s New Role
With her arrival in San Francisco, Zosca is now available for corporate events and skippered charters as part of the Spinnaker Sailing fleet. Members of the Spinnaker Sailing Club can also bareboat charter Zosca, allowing others to experience the joy of sailing this magnificent vessel.
Looking Ahead
Our journey with Zosca has been one of highs and lows, challenges and triumphs. From a simple idea shared over beers to navigating international waters and bureaucratic hurdles, every step brought us closer to this moment. As we look to the future, we’re excited to see Zosca bring joy to other sailors and continue to be a part of our sailing adventures.
Stay tuned for more tales from the high seas and the continued adventures of Zosca. Fair winds and following seas to all our fellow sailors!
Celebrate the culmination of our 18-month journey as Zosca sails in San Francisco Bay. Available now for corporate events and charters through the Spinnaker Sailing Club, join us in experiencing the joy of sailing this incredible vessel.