On 18 June 2001, the Contessa set sail from Hampton, Virginia as part of the West Marine Bermuda Rally 2001.

Most of the Crew had been preparing for months with a series of sailing seminars and LOTS of improvements to the old girl. In fact Skipper Roy added so many new toys that we were surprised she still floated! However it was all worth it when the adventure began....

The Event

From the official website:

"The West Marine Bermuda Cruising Rally combines ocean passagemaking with a week's relaxed cruising in one of the world's most breathtaking destinations.

Now in its ninth year, the Bermuda rally is organized by Steve Black and Hal Sutphen. It features key elements of the popular West Marine Caribbean 1500, including departure briefings,  professional weather services, and daily radio chat hours en route.

The passage itself is not child's play, but neither is it dangerous if approached with proper planning and preparation. This is where our Rally format truly shines"

The Skipper

Our Skipper Brave and True was Roy Taylor. Roy and Robin are the proud owners of The Contessa. In fact she is Roy's (very expensive) "baby".

Roy called the shots on both legs of the journey and is a much better sailor than a Moped driver - at least when required to drive on the left side of the road ;-)

Roy was also caught the biggest fish of the Rally - and no this WASN'T the winner!

  The Eastward Crew

    First Mate - Robin Taylor

    Bo'sun - Bud Starr

    Cook and Provisioner - Jeannie Starr

    Medic and Photographer - Tracy Smart

The Westward Crew

Navigator - Joe Shearer

Cook and Serving Wench - Bud Starr

Fisherman - Rick Neff

Purveyor of Liquid Refreshments - Brian Wilson

For more on The Contessa, click below:

Copyright © Warriordoc, Joe Shearer, Roy and Robin Taylor, Bud and Jeannie Starr, 2001, 2002. 
All Rights Reserved.

Revised:09/09/02