Getting closer

My new foredeck is almost done.

I’ve installed 2 new cleats, re-positioned the old one, and dry fit the windlass. The bulwarks and foredeck are painted but I still need to non-skid. Darrin is almost done glassing the port side of splendid and we are working hard while we have some nice weather. “Splendid” and “Alas” (Darrin’s boat) will be moving down river to the beach in a few days. It will be nice to be closer to the Gulf and sailing, man I can’t wait! When we leave I will calibrate the autopilot.

I’m still knee deep in projects but I think I’m over the hump. I still need to rig the wind vane, but once I do I’ll feel really good about Splendid’s self-steering system. I still want to find, and fit a small tiller pilot to the wind vane. This will be very useful in light wind with a low amp draw. In most situations I’m planning on using the wind vane (Gina), and will treat my new Raymarine S3 as a backup. I’m sure most people would treat it as a primary means of self steering but I’m going to try and live over 80% strictly on green power. I still want to buy 2 more 130 watt solar panels (I have 2), and a wind generator which I will fit to the mizzen. I’d also like to have 12v refrigeration so I don’t have to burn fuel to freeze the holding plates.

I’m so excited I can’t see strait. I’ve been refitting in this river for a year now and I’m pulling my hair out. Once we are at the beach I’ll do some “shake down” cruises in the Gulf and take advantage of some of the surrounding cruising grounds before heading south.

I’ll have pictures and video of my new bow in a few days.

Cheers everyone.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex