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Sailing in Helsinki

I’ve never sailed this far north before!  And judging from the warm sunshine on this cloudless day, you would never know I was in the most northerly capital city in the world at the tail end of summer.

We had a beautiful afternoon sail in light wind around a few islands in the stunning archipelago surrounding Helsinki’s harbourfront area.  My colleague and sailing friend Tuure Ala-Paavola took me out on Kira, a 27 foot Albin Express.  He and I were so happy to be out on the water — two sailing enthusiasts who have spoken about the joys of racing every time I’ve visited Helsinki.  This was our first time to sail together.

The boat is perfect for sailing double-handed — especially the really clever way the spinnaker pole is stored along the boom, with pole up and pole down lines attached.  Tuure had the kite up (and down, and jibed) in a jiffy.

@Tuure:  I hope you come to Canada sometime so I can return the favour — and I’m sure the lads on the foredeck would want to here your ideas!

 

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