Last weekend was my first exposure to windsurfing in Berkeley, CA. It's pretty badass. There's an organization called the Cal Sailing Club which basically allows members to pay a flat rate ($60 for 3 months?) to use modern windsurfing gear as much as they care to. It can be a crowded place, but the vibe is laid back and friendly. When it's windy there are tons of windsurfers out in the protected bay. There are a lot of lessons and clinics going on, there's a convenience store in spitting distance of the launch for cold beverages, snacks, and weekend BBQs. The Berkeley Marina seems like a place stuck in the heyday of windsurfing. I salute the organizers and leaders of the CSC. The world could use more organizations that offer economical means to windsurf.
Here's my current +/- chart for this particular spot:
| Pros | Cons |
| Many stoked windsurfers of all levels | Somewhat crowded |
| Awesome Astroturf rigging area | Launch off a dock in a wind shadow |
| Convenience Store 20 yards away | Sometimes less windy than other spots (sometimes it only blows 18 not 20) |
| Did I mention the food? | |
I sailed this spot Friday and Saturday. On Sunday I sailed a spot close-by called Point Isabel. I want to sail it a couple more times before I write anything about it, though. Overall, it's been a great first week for me. I sailed 5 of 7 days. My biggest sail has been a 5.0. I haven't used an uphaul in CA yet (forgot to even attach one until yesterday!).
Good winds -- aaron
6 comments:
All right your making all of us mid atlantic windsurfers jealous, well at least one anyway. I almost had my first lesson out there back in 86. I just happend to be too cool of a 14 year old to be crusing around on goofy looking things. Imagine where I would be now, if only.....
5 out of 7 is approaching Hatteras standards... oh wait, you're referring to sailed days, not the male to female ratio!
Andy 6/7 were sailable days, but I had to unpack at some point!
Not too sure about the m/f ratio since girls avoid me like the plague.
Wow, are you sure you just moved to the West Coast? It sounds like you're living on an entirely different planet. I can't wait for my Gorge trip in August.
That's awesome! It's like our Sail and Paddle Club, on steroids! Now you'll be light years ahead of me in skills.
Had a good sesh today - first time in over a month! I sure needed it.
Best,
Paul
Hey,
Came across your blog via James' (which I came across via rec.). Berkeley/Cal Sailing is where I learned to sail-- I'm glad you like the vibe there. When I think of the ultimate windsurfing posse, I think of the folks at Cal Sailing. Have you tried Cheeseboard yet?
Sophia
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