I’m new at sailing and have a 22ft catalina in alameda should I have a fear of tipping the boat over how big of wind would do this in sf bay thanks and I would like to sail around alcatraze should I worry about tiping the boat over or getting knock down. thanks

Dick, it sounds like you might be a beginner so before you go out on the bay where it can be quite windy with tankers coming and going I would recommend taking a lesson at Club Nautique

Their Basic Keelboat class will teach you enough to take your 22 footer out on the bay safely!

Todds advice is definitely the way to go. But if you feel that you have the basics down, my best advice for you is to go out on a nice comfortable day with winds no stronger than 10 knots and see how you feel, see how much your boat heels, and see if you feel comfortable. With a 22 footer heading out to alcatraz, you’re definitely going to notice how choppy it gets and you’re going to want to make sure to keep a good eye out for tankers and tourist cruise ships so that you don’t get blindsided by their wakes. They can cause some pretty big rollers, especially for a tiny 22 footer. But if you’ve sailed before and you head into them then it shouldn’t be anything too serious. Also, many times the predicted wind speeds (which you should check before you go out) are way less than what is actually going on out in the bay. Sources have said 5 to 10 knots before and I get out there and it’s really blowing 15 to 20, with gusts in the mid to upper 20s. This could have a huge impact on your “planned” sail and enjoyment level, especially with a 22 footer. Basically, the only way you’re going to know is by going out and giving it a shot (depending on exactly how beginner you are). While on the smaller side, you’re not the only 22 footer out there. And if you get into some trouble with winds that get too big and you feel uncomfortable, then just head up wind and you can either reef your main, pull your jib in, or just loosen your sails all the way, motor into the wind and bring them down. I hope my advice doesn’t get you into trouble. Just go out on a nice calm day (with at least one other sailing partner) where there’s just enough breeze to fill your sails and go as far as you feel comfortable. Good luck!

This time of year between the storms is a good time to get experience as wind is lighter that other seasons ( except for the storms).
A couple of precautions from a 24 ft sailor that has experience on Catalina 22s.
1 DO NOT FORGET TO LOWER THE KEEL!!!
2 Even on a calm day if you go out the gate a little DO not go south of the South tower.
Also if your out and the wind and waves are getting a bit much, duck behind Angle Is., into aquatic park or Hyde st pier area.

Just be careful and always have a VHF radio to call for help all boats monitor ch 16 and you can hear about ship traffic on channel 14
And wear the PFDs you are required to have!

Hi
Check out this organization
http://www.sfsailing.org/

Hi Dick,
I sailed for several years on a 23’ Pearson, the ubiquitous Santana 22, J24’s, and many years on dinghies on the bay.

Start easy, know how to reef. Coming out of alameda you have a wonderful, flat water, nice breeze playground between the city and alameda. Get to learn your boat there, then you can start to go up to the SF side of the bay bridge, stick your nose out, and if too much, turn right back or run down around the N end of Treasure and back.

Take your time and you’ll have great fun. The catalina should be fine as long as you don’t push too hard too fast.

Know how to operate your keel, and keep the main hatch boards in when out in strong wind – if you do “broach” and put the boat on it’s side, at least you’ll keep water from downflooding into the cabin and sinking the boat.

Wear PFDs and have a portable VHF preferably attached to you in case you do get in trouble.
Have fun!

I used to sail weekly on an O’Day 24. The best way to learn is to just do it.