The Friendship Sloop

   Ideally, when sailing aboard Voyager, my Friendship Sloop, a crew of four people is helpful. The crew positions are Forward Watch, First Mate, Cabin Person and Captain. Over time, if interested, you can learn all four positions, captain the boat and even bring aboard a guest or two! Once you have acquired  knowledge, experience and confidence, you will even be able to sail a friendship sloop by yourself.
   For me the lessons, experience and confidence factors began eleven years ago in the year 2002 when the youngest of my two sons decided he no longer had time to "hang-out" with me. I had to think of something to do with my time and sailing, which I had always wanted to do, came to mind.
   I found and was able to afford a 14' Cape dory sailboat. I was ecstatic, my dream had come true. It was only a matter of weeks before "Hunky Dory" was launched! For two boating seasons my sons were glad to see that "Dad" had found something to keep him happy and occupied...