I am drawing closer and closer to the date when I head to Texas to sail from Corpus to Galveston and back.

We have got alot of safety gear together and alot of camping stuff. We have even done a few test runs at the lake with all the gear making sure the boat can handle it all okay in big winds.

We had to be careful about weight when selecting out gear. Our goal was to keep it under 130lbs. Looks like we just made it. The water is 40 pounds so that was the biggest issue. But then we had to figure out the food and camping stuff. I had done alot of backpacking so I had all the basics for camping that were very light so that worked out nicely. But there were some things that we were lacking. Drybag? Ended up with 4 roll down and buckle bags that seem pretty tough and watertight.

The boat was the next step. Replaced anything that looked worn, put together a great spare parts kit and tool kit. Fixed a few minor leaks. I think she is ready to go!

So that is where we stand, I think I have about 150 dollars in the trip already and the same for my friend. But we are getting there. If there is anyone that lives down in that area and sees a 5.2 sail by you will know who it might be.

I'd recommend hiring a satellite phone for the trip. Once you get past Port Aransas there is no civilization until Matagorga - 80 miles, and if you break down on this stretch there is no vehicle traffic on Matagorda island and cell phone reception is patchy. http://www.satellitephonestore.com/ is a good outfit that I've used twice.

Be careful at San Luis pass - give it a wide berth of at least a mile or two - there are some nasty sand bars lurking there.

Just north of Matagorda island there are some breakers marked on the chart. They get pretty big some times and have caught me unawares as they break 1/2 to 1 mile offshore.

Be safe,

Chris.

well, tell us about the trip. ive been watching for a report but have not seen it.

THe trip went incredibly well, I am working on a really good write up right now and when I finish I will be posting it on here.