Laura Henkel Laura Henkel

Richardson Bay | Sailing

My sailboat, Barbelina, was rigged for solo sailing; however, I never ventured out by myself. As I was new to the sport, I didn’t feel that I had the skills to tackle Richardson Bay by lonesome. With the Bay’s cross-currents, the sudden wind changes and the huge tankers zipping by, it was simply more fun to sail with skilled friends. I lived minimally on the boat, but had all the necessary creature comforts to make living aboard bliss. The boat was always ready to sail within 15 minutes, day or night.

My sailboat, Barbelina, was rigged for solo sailing; however, I never ventured out by myself. As I was new to the sport, I didn’t feel that I had the skills to tackle Richardson Bay by lonesome. With the Bay’s cross-currents, the sudden wind changes and the huge tankers zipping by, it was simply more fun to sail with skilled friends. I lived minimally on the boat, but had all the necessary creature comforts to make living aboard bliss. The boat was always ready to sail within 15 minutes, day or night.

One day, I’ll live on a boat again. I am picturing myself living on a Dutch barged moored outside of Paris. Of course, it will be ready to go within 15 minutes should I decided to explore the many canals and rivers of Europe.

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Laura Henkel Laura Henkel

Sausalito | Richardson Bay

For many years, I called Sausalito my home. I lived on a 36’ sailboat that was docked at a marina on Richardson Bay. It was high-end camping and I loved every moment of it.

When you live on a boat, you are in synch with nature. There really isn’t anything like it. Of course, Richardson Bay is a special place.

Richardson Bay is one of the most pristine estuaries on the Pacific Coast with extensive eelgrass areas and sizable undisturbed intertidal habitats. It supports an extensive array of animal and plant life. Being a highly dense mecca for a variety of boats, the waters are subject to a "no discharge" rule to protect the elaborate and fragile ecosystems present, including a complex fishery and marine mammals.

This photo features my friend’s art studio moored in the middle of the Bay at dusk. His creations are inspired by the magic of his environment. I highly recommend that you visit his portfolio. I especially encourage that you collect his art.

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