The Lobsta Crawlers, as they are affectionately known, concluded their month-long tour of America's quintessential cruising ground in New England, starting from Great Salt Pond on Block Island, RI and cruising through Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. In typical Rhumb Line Yacht Sales fashion, the group of powercats and one sailing catamaran, lead by Dick and Carol Tuschick, left quite the impression in their wake.

Leaving quite the scene in their wake in Newburyport, MA

A (mostly) uniform formation of powercats would at times cruise together or break off in smaller groups and would rendezvous at specific locations for group gatherings and dinners - giving everyone plenty of opportunities to cruise on their own or with the group. For that one Antares 44i sailboat, this meant a bit of planning and a few early mornings.

“It was indeed a challenge to keep up with the others, but we were able to do so because of the relatively short distances they traveled each day. While we had expected to fall far behind and only catch up for the scheduled dinners, we were able to stay with the group most of the way,” says Elizabeth who along with partner Alan, cruise aboard the Antares sailing catamaran s/v Vivacia.

An early morning departure from the only sailboat in the fleet

“We would leave very early in the morning, wave to everyone as they passed us by later on, and finally arrive well after the others. But we made it and are so glad we did. It was such fun being with the group and getting to know so many new friends. They really made us feel welcomed into the family.”

“I am very nervous about going into new areas. As slow as we are, I have to do very careful route planning and it can become quite tiresome. The incredible amount of work that Dick and Carol put into planning the itinerary and leading the group not only made my life much easier and less stressful, but brought us to places I would not have known or had the courage to visit. That expanded horizon was the biggest benefit,” says Elizabeth.

This is also Taryn and Nick’s first flotilla. They’ve owned their PDQ 34 m/v Taryn Away since January 2017 and have gotten to know several flotilla members since buying the boat.

The best of times with a dockside picnic

“Dick and Carol put together such an interesting itinerary, we just couldn’t resist. In addition, Nick has never been to Maine, so the flotilla provided a great opportunity for Nick to see this beautiful part of America, and for me to return,” says Taryn.

“The biggest reason for joining the flotilla was the fantastic camaraderie of the PDQ community. The chemistry of the Lobsta Crawl group was the highlight of the trip! Also, we benefitted from the collective experience and knowledge of flotilla members on a wide range of issues; cruising secrets, mechanical problem solving, weather reports, and each boat owners unique innovations on their boats.”