The Pirates of Clipper Cove
When the Coast Guard notified me that my Santana 22 had been floating aimlessly around the eastern towers of the Bay Bridge (near the construction zone) and I needed to come get it from Yerba Buena Station right away, I rushed right over. This was so strange as I had it securely on the hook in Clipper Cove for the week, and I do know how to properly set an anchor.
When I arrived, the folks at the station were very nice and helpful. As we walked over to my boat, I noticed something odd. The remaining two feet of anchor rode was cleanly cut — not frayed at all. It was obvious to my eye that someone had cut it, and not only to mine but to the Coasties’ with me as well.
I know I shouldn’t expect otherwise, leaving my boat unattended for a week or more on the hook but I guess I was hoping that piracy was not the name of the game in these waters. Nothing seems to have been stolen so I guess someone either wanted the spot I was anchored in or did it out of pure maliciousness.
The Santana is now safe in a marina, undergoing an overhaul. I was lucky that it didn’t cause any damage while drifting. A hearty thanks to the US Coast Guard, and for the scurvy rats that cut my line, I’ll come to collect my bottle of rum (Pusser’s, please) and take your apologies!