THE TRIP	The 7-mile sail to Cuttyhunk departs from our dock in Menemsha, the only up-island port and home to the greater part of the Vineyard's fishing fleet. We sail west across Vineyard Sound, past Dogfish Bar and the Spectacular Gay Head Cliffs. The perspective of these colorful clay cliffs from the water is truly unforgettable. We approach Cuttyhunk through Canapitset Channel, a narrow inlet between Nashawena Island and the harbor where many transient yachts anchor for a visit to this tiny community. Built on the hillsides surrounding the harbor, Cuttyhunk remains the unspoiled resort it has been since the 1900's. A comprehensive island history and memorabilia are kept in the new museum built by the Cuttyhunk Historical Society. We generally tie up for about 2 hours so people have time to sightsee or have a bite to eat at one of the few island eateries. Weather and tide permitting, the return trip may take us home via Buzzard's Bay and a stop at a remote beach for a swim. Any leg of the trip is rarely over an hour and we're always back in Menemsha by 4:00 pm. Our Sunset Trip leaves from Menemsha with time to sail across the Sound to swing thru Tarpaulin Cove or Quick's Hole, or possibly around Gay Head to see the sun set into Block Island Sound.
	THE BOAT	Arabella is a 50' catamaran designed by renowned multi-hull designer, Chris White who, as a resident sailor of southeast Massachusetts, has many years experience sailing throughout these waters. He brought this experience into the layout of this vessel, making it so well suited for this sailing venue. Her shoal draft avails her to anchorages and beaches that are unapproachable by ballasted monohulls. She is a world cruising yacht with a full array of the latest navigational equipment, a full galley and overnight accomodations for eight. Though Arabella is considered heavy by racing standards (22,000 lbs.) she has sailed to speeds above 25 knots and frequently reaches 15 kts or more on our daily trips. Though there is plenty of deck space, this vessel has a fully enclosed deck house aft that offers passengers a protected area while still being able to see the views through wrap around windows. In light winds, Arabella is pushed along at 9 kts by twin diesels isolated aft of the passenger area in sound insulated compartments. Simply put, Arabella is very well suited for these trips in any weather. The boat and the trip are the best available in Vineyard waters, and if you're curious about the general performance of these impressive, large multi-hulls, this is an experience not to be missed.
	THE CREW	Captain and owner of the Arabella is Hugh Taylor, a 24 year resident of Gay Head. He is the youngest of the musical family of the same name. Hugh has sailed out of Menemsha since he was 8 years old. Besides that 30-some years of sailing in Vineyard waters, he has made many trips to the Carribean delivering yachts as well as recent trips to the Antilles and the Bahamas with Arabella. Together with two other captains who help fill the summer schedule, Captain Taylor presents an easygoing tour of these waters and their wildlife. Our skippers have extensive resumes with over 60 years combined sailing experience in Vineyard waters. They are delighted to share their love of the Vineyard and the surrounding islands with the touring public, and Arabella offers them the perfect opportunity to do just that.
	INFORMATION	The Cuttyhunk Daysail - $75 (Children 12 and under - $40) The Sunset Trip - 2 hrs thru sunset - $50 Private Charters by Request Advance, prepaid reservations are important. For information and reservations call 508-645-3511 Cancellations: 100% refund upon request at time and point of departure. Credit cards accepted: Mastercard/Visa, American Express and Discover