Opua: the view from the boatyard
Opua: the view from the boatyard
In every haul out there comes a point of maximum chaos. This time it was yesterday afternoon when I dug the vacuum sander from where it was buried in what used to be a hanging locker. I bought the sander when I repainted the topsides a couple of years ago, but need shore power to use it. Yesterday I wanted to sand the small amount of exterior teak trim around the companionway and the tiller. In order to get to the sander I had to remove the laundry bag, a bag of rags, a pillow, two sleeping bags, my carryon computer bag, two or three hats, a funnel, a hand broom and dust pan. All this in addition to all the other stuff that was out and about, including teak oil, paint, sand paper, brushes, a zinc for the engine shaft, work clothes, masking tape, etc. etc.
I used the sander for about fifteen minutes, put it away, and gradually order has been restored.
I’m done and could go back into the water this afternoon, but the yard can’t launch me until tomorrow morning. Three coats of antifouling; eight coats of oil on tiller and trim: topsides touched up near waterline; zinc on shaft; through hull fittings lubricated.
Although yesterday was windy, the weather has continued to be fine and is predicted to remain so for several more days. This is an exceptionally long spell of good weather for New Zealand.
My hands have taken some knocks, but have survived and even continue to heal.
I watched part of several basketball games via Slingbox in between coats of paint and oil.
I can’t get the boat completely sorted out until I’m back in the water and on my mooring. Barring the unforeseen, by noon tomorrow.
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The photo was taken from THE HAWKE OF TUONELA on her cradle in the boat yard, looking north toward the Opua Marina.
Monday, March 17, 2008