We plan a week here to prepare the yacht for another sailing season. No matter how organized we are it is always frustrating to get people to commit themselves and actually turn up as they assure us the will. We were here 3 weeks ago, ( via Copenhagen to celebrate Scott and Jeanette´s engagement) and thought everything was in control, but nothing has been done as promised. However, the boat is taken out of the water as scheduled, and now Ross is here to chase people up things are happening. There is quite a list to be attended to.
In the meantime we are staying in a small seaside hotel with a lovely view over the sea, as we are unable to live on the boat when she is on dry dock. This is very pleasant and has an extra bonus of an excellent internet connection.
Views from the hotel
Views from the hotel
Ross leaves very early each morning and spends a full day on the boat at least to 6.30p.m., ensuring people do as they promise.
Freespirit and Impulsive on the hard stand
Freespirit and Impulsive on the hard stand
Robert servicing the winches
22nd. May 2009
We hope the boat is being lifted back into the water today. Everything is ready except the propeller. Unfortunately one of the bolts attaching it to its shaft is jammed and the tool supplied in the kit Ross bought over from Melbourne is inadequate for the job (in fact it broke!). Let's hope it can be sorted this morning.
This proves to be a huge problem, including loosing our place in the queue to be taken out of the water. The shipyard men are a great help and eventually get the bolts out after using their oxy-torch. They also say we can get the boat out at the end of the day but there is an emergency lift out of a huge cruiser taking in water so we have to wait until tomorrow.
We are here with Phil and Robbie. Our boats are side by side in dry dock. We all have to go our own ways during the day but it is lovely to catch up over a relaxed dinner and compare notes and frustrations.We have our last dinner together tonight as they are going ahead now. We have decided to have another full season in the Mediteranean. We have shared wonderful times over the last view years, and really appreciate all the support they have given us.
