Sheba is my name,
commander of the sailing vessel Phoebus. My two-legged crew accompany
me on numerous voyages sailing on Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay and
North Channel.Thought I’d share a few experiences from a canine
perspective.
Before departing for shore, the crew are given instructions to keep Phoebus
in ship-shape and Bristol fashion.
“… and when you’re finished tying up the mainsail, clean
the paw prints off the V-berth and swab the decks.”
When nature calls, we head for shore. The crew built Phoebling
to accom-modate my needs. Able seaman Brian rows me ashore while the cook
prepares dinner in the galley. Phoebling could use a few more
inches of freeboard when the entire crew is being transported.
The ship must not be abandoned for long. When the shore has been conquered
- it’s time to go.
Heading back to the ramp under auxiliary power. No sense making a spectacle
of myself trying to sail into harbour, and the helmsman can’t be
trusted.
It’s the end of the sailing season and already thinking about next
year’s expeditions.
Until then … keep off the couch.
Back Yard Yacht Builders
A non-commercial association of amateur boat-builder enthusiasts.
All our wooden boats are Stevenson designs.