The visibility was good but there were high surf advisories at the time.
Ventura and Oxnard harbors were more open to the effects of this than some
of the other harbors down the coast (such as San Pedro/Long Beach, where I'm
located).

I was up there in January. I don't think the harbor is especially tricky to
navigate, though in high surf conditions from the west it could be
difficult. From what I could piece together from the new reports, it appears
to have been a navigation error (i.e., the skipper thought the water was
deeper than it was) rather than losing control in adverse conditions.

--Alan Gomes

"Steve" wrote in message
...

That's really a shame. Beautiful vessel. Irving Johnson must be spinning
in his grave.

DSK



I agree.

Irving Johnson was a great sailor and this vessel was intended to carry on
his legacy and tradition.

Ole Capt. Irving would never of gotten the ship into this situation.

From what I read, the ship was only a couple years old and it appears the
weather was fairly clear and calm. I would expect that an investigation
would reveal that the current set the ship south of the main channel
jetty.

I have never enter the Oxnard channel but I've seen similar situations
around the entrances to other So. California boat harbors.

In looking at the pictures, I was disappointed to see very small size of
the boat trying to tow the "ship" out into open water. (so much for Vessel
Assist). I wonder if they insisted on the "Capt" signing a tow agreement
before they put a line onboard.

Well, hopefully she will be towed free before any major damage is done and
can sail again (with a new Capt.).

Just my opinion and comments, FWIW.

Steve
s/v Good Intentions