My last blog was about the trip over. This one completes the stay and return to San Pedro.

I'll just start by saying that if you've not been to Catalina, you have to go. Just beautiful. Far enough away to feel like you're disconnected, but only 20 miles from San Pedro, so not too far (averaging about 6 knots, we were there and back in a bit over 3.5 hours each way). The water and wind on the way there and back are awesome. It was a fantastic sail.

The coves and moorings and anchorages are quite diverse. And if all you can do it take the Express, go to Two Harbors, which has several little coves, Catalina Harbor, and a marine reserve, all within walking distance. It is much more quite, family-oriented, and less "party central" than Avalon (which is also beautiful).

We also sailed down the coast of the island, from Two Harbors to While's Landing (Moonstone Cove, actually) - we being my friend John O, who took the Express out Saturday to join me and sail back. WOW. Bluest water I've ever seen. Amazing cliffs and mountains down to the ocean. Seals, dolphins, etc. all over.

I flew the gennaker for the first time. That was great! Windrunner really sails well; she likes to get in her groove, with well set sails, not pinched or driving too hard. Just give her a good set and a steady helm and wind in the mid- to upper teens, and she will give you a steady 7 knots. She is really fun to sail.

Check out the additional pics I uploaded to the gallery to see what I mean about how pretty the island and ocean are. Then make your plans to go.

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