Sailing Season being over, it is time to think of Spring 2012 and the next launch into Gulf Island Cruising.
This year, my little vessel is due for the equivalent of an 'annual physical, which fortunately does not fall due every year in the case of sailing boats - apart from the yearly regular maintenance of bottom paint, engine maintenance and the usual stuff one does to keep ones floating home in prime condition.
Choosing the worst day of the week, with strong wind warnings, rain and cold temperatures in the marine weather forecast I cast off from my home berth and set course for a boat yard, about three hours away. Lucky me, the wind held off, the rain started after I tied up the the boat yard dock, and five layers of fleece and woollies made the chilly morning quite bearable if not in a way enjoyable.
A couple of days later, the bottom has acquired a transparent plastic skirt to contain paint particles and other debris being cleaned off the bottom. If this space keeps up, she will be ready to sail again WAY BEFORE next May's planned launch day.
The September waxing of her red hull ....blinding!
So shiny indeed, that the boatyard is perfectly reflected on the red surface.
The one and only special ladder of the boat yard, reserved and dedicated to yours truly, who is known to be reluctant if not incapable to climb ladders. Almost as good as an elevator and perfectly aligned with a solid railing and a large top platform.
The work dock of the yard is at the end of a tight passage between boat houses, where prevailing winds only rarely ripple the surface of the water.
Mirror image of 'My Ladder'
