Andy Philpott, a colleague of Gerard’s at the university (hoisting a sail above) graciously offered to take us out on his sailboat – the Catalyst – for the afternoon. For four days leading up to our sailing date, the weather forecast was for full sun and 24C. However, that morning the clouds started to roll in and we even drove through a downpour as we were heading to the marina. Nevertheless, the wind was blowing and the rain stayed away from Auckland. Along with Andy, we were joined by Garrett van Ryzin (a professor from Columbia who was visiting Andy this week) and Pearl, one of Andy’s triplets (the other kids were at home studying for their exams). We headed out of Westhaven marina (which is essentially in downtown Auckland) towards Rangitoto island. Our trip to the island offered wonderful sailing with a nice steady breeze. We anchored at a sheltered bay, had some lunch and the boys even went for a long swim. Pearl rowed Annick and Isaac in the dingy to the island where they collected some sea glass and shells. Unfortunately, by the time we decided to head back, the wind had nearly stopped. We tried to make a sail of it, but Andy decided that arriving home past midnight was not worth it – so we started the engine and motored the rest of the way home. Even though the day was cloudy and cold, and the wind was not cooperating on the way home, we all had a great time and would love to do it again.
