Second Time’s the Charm: A Smooth Sail and My Redemption at the Helm

Two weeks after our first sail of the season, our second sail was nearly a carbon copy— but with much better docking.

We left home around 8 am and arrived at Burnham Harbor just before noon. This time, the marina repairs were finished and Red Sky was back in her usual slip — a small but comforting detail that made the whole day feel smoother from the start. We boarded, opened the companionway, and found ourselves settling into a our rhythm. Even though we only sail a couple of times a month, it’s starting to feel like muscle memory.

Calm Winds, Smooth Sailing

We’re so eager to share these experiences, we wanted so badly to invite my sister to join us. But the forecast called for another 60-degree day. We told her it would likely be too cold and that we’d have better sailing days ahead — which was true. Still, once we got out there, we kind of wished she’d come. The sun was shining and the lake was beautiful.

Even though my landing on our previous outing was, well… rough, I was eager to try again. I didn’t want to sit in that feeling for too long. So we decided Kent would take us out again — just like last time — so I could have another shot at bringing Red Sky back in. Every experience is a learning experience and this time, I felt a little more learnt. I was more determined than anxious.

The sail itself was gorgeous. Winds at 5-10 knots from the north, gentle motion on the lake, no swells, and slightly warmer sunshine than we’d expected. We did, however, forget to pack any food or snacks (rookie move). Aside from that, the conditions were just about perfect.

Docking Redemption

Now, it was my turn to bring Red Sky back in.

The conditions were just right and it helped that there weren’t many boats in the marina! I kept our speed slow through the fairway, repeating the mantra: “Slow is pro.” I looked for our dock — the one with the gas station — and made the slow, wide turn into the fairway. Inside the fairway, I immediately started scanning for slip #6. Turning into the slip, the light northerly wind gave me the gentle push that I needed. Lined up perfectly alongside the dock, watching our momentum carefully, I brought the boat to a smooth, quiet stop. At just the right time, Kent stepped off the boat like he was stepping off a porch and secured the lines. 

Here’s what I did differently this time:

• I went uncomfortably slow and let the wind carry us.
• I remembered the keel pivots from the center, so I waited longer to begin my turn.
• Instead of using the throttle like a gas pedal, I used gentle nudges — short bursts forward or reverse.

And just like that, I had redeemed myself 💪😁

What I Learned

The throttle isn’t really about power — it’s about control. Use it in taps and nudges. Let the wind work with you. Let your momentum work with you. Stay patient.