How ICQ Helped a Sailboat in Distress Reach Safe Harbor

When Jeanne (Jan) Socrates, VE0JS/MM / KC2IOV, and her sailboat, the SV Nereida, set sail from Cape Flattery on September 7th, 2022, they were prepared for a challenging journey. But as they navigated through 35-knot winds and storms, their sailboat was disabled, leaving them with limited radio equipment to call out for help.

Fortunately, a following wind kept the Nereida moving without its mainsail, allowing Socrates to maintain communication with her friends and fellow sailors. By this time, she was sailing with only the forward sail on her 38-foot sloop. With the help of ICQ and other amateur radio operators, Socrates was able to make periodic contact with those who could provide vital information about wind and sea conditions, as well as tidal data for San Francisco Bay.

Gil Gray, N2GG, a seasoned amateur operator, played a crucial role in keeping Socrates connected. He managed to establish contact with her on 40 meters, and soon, other operators from New Mexico, California, and Canada, as well as members of Group 7.155, were also receiving her distress calls.

As Socrates struggled to communicate due to the low power output of her HF radio, which was only able to transmit Q5 copy at best (typically Q2 or Q3), Gray's persistence paid off. With his help, Socrates was able to get the assistance she needed, including vital information about wind and sea conditions, as well as tidal data for San Francisco Bay.

The ICQ community rallied around Socrates, providing her with real-time updates on the weather and offering guidance on how to navigate through the challenging conditions. Their support enabled her to stay safe and eventually make it back to shore.

This remarkable story highlights the importance of communication in emergency situations and the value of online communities like ICQ in connecting people across distances. In times of need, these networks can be a lifeline, providing critical support and assistance to those who require it most.

In the end, Socrates' determination and resourcefulness were matched by the kindness and generosity of the ICQ community, which helped her safely reach her destination. This heartwarming tale serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, human connection can be a powerful force for good.

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