From: AJ Goldman
Sent: May-12-10 11:00 AM
To: will@hydrovane.com
Subject: From AJ!

Hi Will,

Thanks again for all your help, you are the man! I am always impressed on how quickly you can identify a problem and come up with a solution.

Here is my notes from the last trip:

All is well. COG 228 true, speed 6.5 knots, winds 18-22

I got the shit kicked out of me leaving the gate. Sustained 28 knots, gusting to 35. I had to head down more a bit more than I wanted, but the boat was happiest there. In fact, I’m on the way to Kuai! Well, I better turn around soon. Will head home, be back Monday.

Near the last marker, one big swell/wave hit me broad side and went entirely over the boat! It felt liked I was under a waterfall!

The dolphins love me! They have found me three times during the trip. No whales, fine by me!

The boat is good, the Hydrovane is perfect! I set the course, balance the rig, and just move the lever over to position 1, far left. It then takes over, quietly, with very little effort. I use the stubby vane and it steers my 40 foot boat along perfectly! The system never seems to be out of control and it does not seem to mind the big swells and wind. I plan to use the Hydrovane about 98% of the time between San Francisco and Hawaii!

Last story, a tanker changed course to get closer to me, I swear! It really pissed me off! I had him tracked for over twenty minutes on AIS before I saw him, I was well clear, and he turned. I hate those big things!

It is really cold at night! Tell the other guys to bring warm clothing.

Second Verse, signing off.

AJ

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