OUR STORY

Creating

Daydream Sailing

Brenda Suhr

Daydream Sailing began with the idea for finding a business model that would increase options for great sailing experiences. After talking with fellow sailors in my earlier days, sailing at Pultneyville Yacht Club:  I found that more people really wanted to go out sailing, but didn’t have access to a sailboat or lacked the skills to feel comfortable to take a boat out on the water themselves.

I started out a little bit differently, I BOUGHT the BOAT FIRST, a great little Pearson 26, in fall of 2012, then flew to Key West to take sailing lessons at the recommendation of the former boat owner. Launched in April 2013 and made my way out onto Lake Ontario every opportunity that availed, learning and gaining experience, including crewing for a friend and skipper of another sailboat in Thursday night races for 3 years. I have had a boat in the water every year since I started this crazy fabulous ride! Sailing: It is peaceful, exhilarating and challenging all at the same time.

In 2018, my first year on Canandaigua Lake, I had my NYS Joint Pilot Engineer license completed and ready to make the dream come true. I joined Canandaigua Yacht Club and enjoyed boating and social gatherings with new friends. With plenty of help from my partner, Joe, we set out many weekend mornings with the goal of taking somebody sailing that day. Sometimes our goal was achieved with a lovely sunset cruise and sometimes we just enjoyed the day being out on the water savoring the beauty of the Finger Lakes.  In 2019, we really had FUN! Traveling to British Virgin Islands and enjoying catamaran cruising for a week in the islands, then a busy summer season on Canandaigua Lake, followed by a week training aboard a catamaran in Corfu, Greece.  Although, 2020 was NOT the best year for many people and businesses, we were still busy taking people out on the lake to get some relief from all the stresses of a pandemic. It was great to provide much needed enjoyment for so many families that joined us. We capped off the year, with both of us, Joe and I completing our Captain’s licensing. In 2021, we will welcome Mark, a former crew member, from the “big Lake” aboard to help us meet the increasing demand for fun and adventure in Sailing!

Our Sailboat

Our sailboat is a J-24, a great little racer and day-sailing vessel. The hull is beautifully wrapped with a watercolor graphic mural of scenes from my family and friends on sailing adventures. Essentials on board include a port-a-potty, cooler, various PFDs (lifejackets), safety equipment and an outboard 4 hp motor,  if breezes abate.  Interior cabin is available for stowage of personal effects, and if needed, shelter from a pop-up storm.  Occasionally, a great place to catch at nap while at anchor.