We really wanted a good shakedown as we have done so much to the boat. In fact we have moved onto next years list! Our bank balance is a good bit lighter but we are happy with all we have had done and we are getting ready for 2017 when we hope to head to the med.
A list of things we have done this year.
- New sails - we have been so looking forward to trying them out but every time we have tried the weather has not been right. Roll on retirement when we can sail when be want rather in prebooked windows of opportunity.
- New nav system - like the sails we desperately want to try this out.
- This includes AIS that also transmits - the previous one just received.
- The wind vane at the top of the mast has been replaced and now works. Doing this also showed that the shrouds had originally been fitted into the wrong holes - this was rectified.
- A massive goal post in stainless steel constructed to house our wind generator and solar panel. Both working wonderfully (especially the wind generator). This means we will not be dependent on shore power and will have more choice where we moor/anchor and for how long. We also have the frame work for the Bimini built into this and a Bimini cover made.
- John has carried out the engine service. (Getting ready for when we are on our travels and need to do it ourselves.)
In a couple of weeks we are going to have the stern leg seal changed. Although there is a lot of debate about whether this should be done or not if it is not leaking ours is coming up for 13 years old. If something went wrong then the insurance would be invalid so we are having it done. Hopefully we will then have a shakedown weekend sail at the end of June, prior to setting off at the end of July. However, if we can't we will just have to delay our start date to Holland.
We still need to fit the cockpit table that is in it's box. When we got a nice enough day to fit it, we realised there was no template with the fitting kit. So that could be done in Holland - we have managed long enough without a table.
Another job is trying to figure our how to fix the outboard on the back. We did need a new bracket, but since the new stainless work has been completed we don't seem to have enough straight stainless in a convenient place to fix it to. A problem that will be resolved - John might have to make his own bracket.
I have now started on the list of jobs for next year - it should be shorter but I can always find things to add to a list.
Hopefully my next bit of the blog will be when we are in Holland. Time to tidy up, pack up and head home.
