From Richmond to Richmond, a perilous journey

[liaison]

I recently purchased a pristine Dufour T7, a 7-metre trailer-sailer, from an estate sale. When I perused the folder of paperwork, brochures, specifications, etc., I learned that the "Little boat that could" sported a storied past. Purchased new near Richmond on Thames in 1982, she sailed throughout Europe for a year before the owner decided to try an Atlantic crossing. After adding two 4-metre steel plates on the bottom of the hull for extra ballast and balance she was ready for the voyage. Upon her arrival in the Chesapeake Bay of Virginia, she encountered a storm that forced her into the little port of Urbanna (near Richmond). The little boat, and her adventurous owner, had found their new home. Sadly, she was eventually set aside in favor of her 11-metre replacement. It wasn't until weeks after I acquired her that I received the folder highlighting her adventures. Although I have a larger boat for our overnight trips, I foresee many, but less adventurous, day trips in her future.

 

[Forbsie]

Very interesting story!

Richmond upon Thames is just down the river from me. Are you based in the States?

 

[liaison]

Good Morning, I have been a resident of Richmond, Virginia most of my life. I also own a home on the Chesapeake Bay in a little hamlet of Moon, Virginia. Moon is about an hour's drive from Richmond. From what I have learned so far, my Dufour T7 is the only one in the U.S. I look forward to sailing her this Spring.

 

[armchairsailor]

Well, I think you should continue her glorious journey and take her round to Richmond BC in that case! I'll buy you a pint if you do...

 

[liaison]

Thanks for the invitation. I have reached an age and financial stability when long-distance sailing becomes both possible and probable. My longest voyage yet was this past Summer for two weeks. It was wonderful. However, that was on my trusty and roomy cruiser "Eclipse", a Watkins 27. A trip from Richmond, VA to Richmond, BC on a 7-metre Dufour loses a lot of allure. Conversely, if YOU ever find yourself near Moon, Virginia, the spirits are on me.