Welcome aboard! In Episode 135 of the Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States podcast, host Bela Musits kicks off an exciting new series documenting a memorable sailing trip from Brunswick, Georgia to Burlington, Vermont aboard a Hunter 44 Deck Salon with fellow sailor and boat owner Mike Malekoff.

🎙️ Episode Overview:

This is the first episode in this series, where we chronicle what it’s like to cruise the Eastern Seaboard by boat. It’s not just about navigation—it’s about the lifestyle, the camaraderie, and the unexpected moments along the way.

Recorded aboard the boat, this podcast invites you to join us as we prep the vessel, troubleshoot, reflect, and sail northward through the ICW and coastal waters.

⛵ What You'll Hear in This Episode:

The story behind the trip and why we're making this voyage

First impressions of the Hunter 44 Deck Salon and boat prep in Brunswick, GA

Navigational strategies and planning for the ICW

Real-life sailing moments: weather checks, equipment hiccups, and dockside decisions

Behind-the-scenes insights: provisioning, maintenance, and what it’s like to live aboard

🌊 About the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway):

The Intracoastal Waterway is a 3,000-mile inland waterway that runs along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. This protected route allows sailors to cruise without venturing into open ocean. In this series, we explore the ICW's challenges, rewards, and unique character—from marshes in Georgia to bustling ports and quiet anchorages further north.

🛥️ The Vessel:

We’re aboard a Hunter 44 Deck Salon, a comfortable and spacious cruising sailboat known for its panoramic cabin windows, roomy interior, and reliable performance. Whether you’re a sailor or just a curious listener, you’ll appreciate the real-world experience this vessel provides as we navigate tides, currents, and marina stops.

🧭 Why This Trip Matters:

Sailing the East Coast isn’t just about moving a boat—it’s about exploration, learning, and making connections. This journey gives you a firsthand look into what it’s like to live aboard a boat for weeks at a time, manage systems, plot courses, and experience the joy (and sometimes stress) of cruising.

🔥 Top Moments in This Episode:

Why we chose this route

What it takes to prep a sailboat for long-distance travel

Our first technical hiccup before even leaving the dock!Thoughts on weather, tides, and planning daily mileage

Musings on the beauty and unpredictability of life on the water

🧰 Gear and Tools We Talk About:

Navigation charts and apps (Navionics, Aqua Map, etc.)Onboard communication tools

Safety gear and equipment for long-haul coastal cruising

Essential maintenance items for ICW travel

📢 Join the Conversation: Have you sailed the ICW? Are you planning a similar trip? Drop a comment below or reach out—we’d love to hear your stories and answer your questions in upcoming episodes. Our email is [email protected]

Connect With Us:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!

Happy Sailing!

Bela and Mike

Welcome aboard another episode of the Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States podcast! In episode 134, co-hosts Bob Musits and Mike Wasserman welcome fellow sailing enthusiast and longtime listener Dan Pfeiffer to the show for a deep dive into the world of planning for the unexpected.

Equipment failures are bound to happen on a sailboat, usually not when it is nice and calm.  Bela and Dan discuss several serinos and possible solutions,

Some key points in the conversation:

Keep calm, most things are not time critical emergencies.

Dan suggests several pieces of kit that can be very helpful - but only if they are easily accessed.

Practice, practice, practice.

Connect With Us:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  You can connect with us at [email protected]

Happy Sailing!

Bela and Mike

 Welcome to another episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States! In this episode, host Bela Musits sits down with Charlie Kirchofer.  He recently purchased a 2022 Beneteau Oceanis 38.1.  We discussed his criteria for selecting the Oceanis 38.1.  We also covered how he plans on getting the sailboat from its location in Annapolis MD and Charlies home port of Boston MA.

We took a deep dive on hiring a captain and here are some tips:

Ask Around: Word of mouth or referrals from local marinas or sailing friends can be your best source.

Have a Conversation: Get on the phone with the captain beforehand to make sure your sailing styles and goals align.

Set Expectations: Clarify responsibilities—will you be hands-on or just observing? Are you looking to learn or just get the boat moved?

Be Prepared: Make sure your boat is ready—fuel, systems checked, provisions in place. The captain isn’t there to do maintenance.

Watch and Learn: Use the opportunity to soak up knowledge. Experienced captains can show you how to manage conditions and make better decisions on the water.

Connect With Us:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  Send us your comments and suggestions. [email protected]

Happy Sailing!

Bela and Mike

Welcome aboard another episode of the Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States podcast! In episode 132, co-hosts Bob Musits and Mike Wasserman welcome fellow sailing enthusiast and longtime listener John Sohl to the show for a deep dive into the world of trailer sailing.

John, a retired physics professor and ski patroller based in Utah, joins the conversation to share his experiences and insights gained from years of sailing—particularly on trailerable sailboats. If you're curious about how to explore new waterways without committing to a full-time liveaboard lifestyle or a marina slip, this episode is for you.

John offers an honest, hands-on perspective of why trailer sailing works for him:

• Freedom and Flexibility: He enjoys the ability to sail in diverse locations—from Utah’s freshwater lakes to the Atlantic coast.
  

• Lower Stress: As a guest on other people’s boats as well as a trailer sailor himself, John appreciates the lower stress involved compared to owning and maintaining a larger fixed-keel vessel.
  

• Budget-Friendly Cruising: For sailors who don’t live near the coast full time, trailer sailing makes the hobby more accessible and affordable.
  

• Adventure On Demand: With the ability to tow his boat behind a vehicle, John can plan spontaneous sailing trips with ease.
  

Whether you’re new to sailing or transitioning from a docked vessel, John shares several practical tips that make trailer sailing more enjoyable:

• Preparation is Key: Before hitting the road, know your launch locations, check ramp conditions, and have your gear organized for efficient rigging and de-rigging.
  

• Practice Your Launch Routine: Repetition helps, especially when launching solo or in unfamiliar locations.
  

• Know the Boat’s Limits: Trailer sailboats vary widely in size, draft, and complexity. It’s essential to understand your boat’s capacity and how it handles under different wind and wave conditions.
  

• Stay Light and Efficient: Space is limited on a trailer sailboat, so every bit of gear must earn its place onboard.
  

Listen Now to Episode 132: “The Joys and Realities of Trailer Sailing with John Sohl,” and be inspired to hit the road—boat in tow—and explore new horizons.

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts!

Connect With Us:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!  You can connect with us at [email protected]

Happy Sailing!

Bela and Mike

Podcast Episode 131: Heavy Weather Sailing with Dan Pfeiffer

Episode Summary: Welcome to another episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States! In this episode, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with Dan Pfeiffer, an experienced sailor and avid listener of the podcast. Dan reached out via email, sparking a fascinating conversation on various sailing topics. Today, we dive deep into heavy weather sailing—navigating winds from 15 to 30 knots and the best techniques to stay safe and efficient on the water.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Understanding heavy weather sailing and what conditions to expect

• How to prepare your vessel for stronger winds

• Key techniques to manage sails and maintain control

• Insights from Dan Pfeiffer’s personal experiences in challenging conditions

Why Listen to This Episode?

If you’ve ever wondered how to confidently handle higher wind speeds or want expert advice on adjusting your sailing techniques, this episode is for you! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sailor, these tips will help improve your seamanship skills and prepare you for breezier conditions.

Key Takeaways:

• Take advantage of regular afternoon sea breezes of 15-20 knots in areas like Narragansett Bay.

• Learn how to adjust sails properly to maintain a balanced and efficiently sailing boat.

• Understanding reefing techniques to reduce sail area in stronger winds.

• The importance of proper weight distribution and boat handling in challenging conditions.

Resources & Links:

• Follow Dan Pfeiffer’s sailing adventures:

• http://dan.pfeiffer.net/10m/SailingInWindyWeather.htm

Connect With Us:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more sailing enthusiasts like you!

Happy Sailing!

Bela and Mike

Welcome to another exciting episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast! In this episode, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with Carter Yepsen, a fellow sailor and a frequent guest on the show. Carter shares his insights and experiences from attending the Yanmar Diesel School, a two day training program designed to enhance knowledge and hands-on skills for maintaining and troubleshooting Yanmar engines.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:The importance of understanding Yanmar diesel engines for boat owners and sailors

Carter’s firsthand experience attending the Yanmar Diesel SchoolCommon maintenance issues and how to troubleshoot them effectively

Pro tips for keeping your Yanmar engine in peak condition

Key takeaways from the training that every boat owner should know

Why This Episode Matters

Whether you're an experienced sailor or just getting started, understanding your boat's engine is crucial for smooth and safe voyages. Yanmar engines are widely used in the marine industry, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to gain deeper insights into their operation and upkeep. Carter’s expertise and real-world experience provide invaluable knowledge that can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure reliability while at sea.

Resources and Links

:Learn more about Yanmar Diesel School: https://mackboring.com/training/

Join the Conversation!

We love hearing from our listeners! Have you attended a diesel training course, or do you have maintenance tips of your own? Drop us a comment, send us a message. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help us bring you more great content!

Thanks,

Bela and Mike

Welcome to the Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States podcast, where we share inspiring stories, practical tips, and the unpredictable nature of life on the water. In this episode, hosted by Bela Musits and co-hosted by Mike Wasserman, we dive into the adventurous journey of Mike Malekoff as he recounts his trip from Georgia to the Florida Keys.

This podcast captures the essence of his experience, highlighting the importance of flexibility, planning, and embracing the unexpected.

### The Journey Begins: From Vermont to the Florida Keys

Mike Malekoff's journey started long before he set sail for the Florida Keys. After sailing from Vermont to the Bahamas and eventually settling in Georgia, Mike planned a celebratory trip to the Keys following his recovery from prostate cancer. The trip was meticulously scheduled for early January, with reservations in the Keys for February and a planned return to Georgia afterward.

### The Challenges of Scheduling and Weather

One of the biggest takeaways from Mike's experience is the challenge of adhering to schedules while cruising on a sailboat. Despite careful planning, the unpredictable nature of weather and other unforeseen circumstances can significantly impact the journey. Mike's trip, which began on January 10th, was planned to be a 10-day voyage with a 10-day buffer. However, cold weather, snow in Georgia and Florida, and strong winds delayed their departure and reduced their buffer days.

### Navigating the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

To avoid rough seas, Mike and his crew traveled the ICW to St. Augustine, which took longer than expected. They encountered a supermoon that affected tides and caused shallow areas, leading to additional stops to avoid grounding. The journey continued to New Smyrna, where they faced a leaking head and had to manage with their second head.

### Mechanical Issues and Weather Delays

Mechanical issues further complicated the trip. In Titusville, a water connection snapped off, leaving them without a working bathroom. Finding parts for a 2005 boat proved difficult, and they spent days waiting for replacements, which eliminated their buffer time. Bad weather and northerly winds affecting offshore currents forced them to wait for calmer seas.

### The Decision to Return

Realizing that crossing to the Keys would be difficult and facing expensive marina reservations, Mike decided to cancel the trip and return to Georgia. The journey back was not without its challenges, including sea fog and rough seas, but they navigated safely using a chart plotter and compass.

### Lessons Learned: Flexibility and Attitude

Mike's trip, described as an adventure rather than a vacation, underscores the importance of flexibility and a positive attitude in sailing. Despite the hurdles, there were enjoyable moments, such as watching a rocket launch in Titusville and surfing alongside dolphins. The experience highlighted the need for backup plans, the challenges of securing marina reservations, and the unpredictability of buffer days.

### Embracing the Journey

The podcast emphasizes that the journey itself is the reward, and focusing solely on the destination can turn an adventure into an ordeal. Experienced sailors understand the challenges and setbacks, while new sailors should be prepared for the unexpected. The importance of planning with flexibility, carrying spare parts, and enjoying the journey cannot be overstated.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Sailing and Cruising the East Coast of the United States. We hope you found Mike's story inspiring and informative. If you have any questions or would like to share your own sailing experiences, please email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to share the podcast and stay tuned for more exciting episodes as we prepare for spring boating.

Happy sailing!

Bela and Mike

Join Bela Musits and Dan Kerpelman in this episode of the podcast as they discuss Dan's four-month-long journey sailing from Florida to Maine in his newly acquired Amel 50 Sailboat. Dan, who was previously on the podcast to talk about his trip from Rochester, NY to Maine via the St. Lawrence Seaway, shares his experiences and insights from this latest adventure.

This episode delves into Dan's remarkable story of acquiring a unique sailboat from a distant location and bringing it to his home port, which was a considerable distance away. While few listeners may find themselves in the exact same situation as Dan, the episode offers valuable takeaways for anyone interested in boating and sailing.

Dan shares practical tips on logistics, processes, equipment, and apps that he found helpful during his journey. He also emphasizes the importance of a meticulous and safety-conscious approach when undertaking such a long and challenging voyage. Whether you're an experienced sailor or simply interested in learning more about boats and sailing, this episode provides a fascinating and informative look at one man's extraordinary journey. 

If you would like to support the podcast, we now have a Patreon page.  Just go to Patreon.com/sailingtheeast.  

Our podcast is now also available on YouTube, just search for “Sailing the East”

https://www.youtube.com/@sailingandcruisingtheeast

We love to hear from you, our listeners, send us your questions, comments, and suggestions at [email protected].  If you know someone that would be an interesting guest on the show, please reach out to us and let us know—wishing you fair winds, and calm seas.

Bela and Mike

In this insightful episode of the podcast, join Bela Musits and Carter Yepsen as they delve into the intricacies of obtaining a USCG (United States Coast Guard) license. Carter, having recently completed this process, provides a firsthand account of the steps involved, offering valuable insights to listeners.

The discussion encompasses a wide range of topics, including:

Whether you're considering a career in the maritime industry or simply interested in expanding your nautical knowledge, this episode offers a wealth of information and guidance on the USCG license process. Tune in to learn from Carter's firsthand experience and Bela's expert insights, and set sail on your own journey toward obtaining a USCG license.

If you would like to support the podcast, we now have a Patreon page.  Just go to Patreon.com/sailingtheeast.  

Our podcast is now also available on YouTube, just search for “Sailing the East”

https://www.youtube.com/@sailingandcruisingtheeast

We love to hear from you, our listeners, send us your questions, comments, and suggestions at [email protected].  If you know someone that would be an interesting guest on the show, please reach out to us and let us know—wishing you fair winds, and calm seas.

Bela and Mike

Join Bela Musits as he interviews Mike Malekoff, a seasoned sailor and frequent guest on this podcast. In this episode, Mike shares his valuable insights and experiences as he prepares his boat for an extended cruise from Georgia to the Florida Keys. After spending six months on the hard, Mike delves into the meticulous planning and preparations required for such a voyage, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the process.

Throughout the discussion, Mike provides a wealth of practical tips and advice on essential safety measures, crucial equipment, and the significance of staying on the boat during the journey. He emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation, highlighting key areas such as navigation, weather forecasting, provisioning, and communication.

Mike also shares his personal experiences and lessons learned from previous voyages, offering listeners a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of long-distance cruising. His passion for sailing and his deep knowledge of the subject matter shine through as he generously shares his expertise.

As always, Mike proves to be a captivating and informative guest, providing listeners with a wealth of valuable information and inspiration for their own sailing adventures. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or an aspiring cruiser, this episode is sure to provide you with valuable insights and practical advice for your next voyage.

If you would like to support the podcast, we now have a Patreon page.  Just go to Patreon.com/sailingtheeast.  

Our podcast is now also available on YouTube, just search for “Sailing the East”

https://www.youtube.com/@sailingandcruisingtheeast

We love to hear from you, our listeners, send us your questions, comments, and suggestions at [email protected].  If you know someone that would be an interesting guest on the show, please reach out to us and let us know—wishing you fair winds, and calm seas.

Bela and Mike