March in Miami

There are two seasons in the USA. That these seasons coincide with the temperature is a helpful coincidence. From May to September is skin season. Color the skin and wear comfortable clothes. You earned it – you survived the eating season. The collection of food holidays from October through April are the calorie equivalent of a New England winter. Rough on the body.

While the Northern Hemisphere remains in winter lockdown, March in Miami offers a needed reprise for those outside the sunshine state. Nothing wrong with chasing the sun and enjoying an early taste of the upcoming sailing season.

Multiple World Champion Willem van Waay, who figures to have sailed in Miami for 30 days a year for the last 15 years, paints a pictures of the Biscayne Bay venue…

“For racing, the bay provides some of the best and most consistent conditions on the planet. Warm air, flat water, strong winds for the most part, and mostly weak current. Focus on your rig tune and sail trim because boat speed will be heavily rewarded. Get off the line, hike hard, avoid tacking in the first couple minutes and let the big dog eat all day.

“Different wind directions and parts of Biscayne Bay have some slight trends and patterns so buy a local a drink and get the scoop. For the most part, however, when the breeze is over 12 knots (which is most of the time), it’s all pretty straight forward.

“Miami is a major hub of international competition. They know how to run regattas so expect fantastic race committee, friendly people, and good nightlife.”

Note: Here’s a list of the best venues in the USA, and when they are at their best…click here.