QCYC cruises to Youngstown

We were again able to finish our vacation by joining a QCYC weekend cruise.  This year, Paul organized a cruise to the US, and had even arranged both US and Canadian customs officers give a seminar at the club earlier in the season.

Ed and I had a short trip from Wilson, most of it under power, as we had little wind.  By the time we got to the Niagara river, though, the wind had picked up.  We knew that the forecast was for high winds and were glad to be at Youngstown early.  It also gave us a chance to pick up some supplies for the arriving cruisers.

Paul, Kim, Will, Bev, Ken, Deanna,
Stephanie, Chris, Steve, Dawn, Ed, Genia

The QCYC group started showing up in the early afternoon, and we were there along with harbourmaster Walter to help them dock.  It had been a very difficult crossing, with high winds, big waves, sea sickness and ripped sails, and two boats had turned back part way into the trip.  Then to add insult to injury, a couple of boats were turned back by border security.  Apparently Youngstown is not a port of entry for those travelling without a Canadian passport.  The rules are very confusing.  Once everyone was settled, we got together for appetizers, cards and bocce, then dinner on the bbq.   

Sunday morning was rainy, but the afternoon was beautiful.  Ed and I took the free 'Discover Niagara' shuttle into Niagara Falls and spent some time at the casino, and went to see the falls on the American side.  A quick swim and dinner at the Youngstown Yacht Club rounded out the weekend.  We had a great sail back to Toronto on Monday, and only had to motor for the last few miles when the wind died down.  Nice to be home.