The must be done jobs are now on a list and we’re starting to move slightly quicker because we’re watching a calm weather window coming up this weekend (Nov. 15 – 16). If the weather holds, we will be able to leave the dock and start heading east! This past weekend was very chill . We did a few things – put away all our items from shopping, engine maintenance items, laundry and a few other items. But for the most part, we took it easy.
Today, Monday Nov, 10th, we’ve found a bit of energy. We asked John to help us hoist Mark to the top of the mizzen mast so that was the main job for this morning. Mark undid the wind generator so it’s spinning happily now and while he was up there, Mark replaced the old topping lift for the mizzen boom. That line supports the mizzen boom and it was getting pretty ratty. Lastly Mark checked the aft deck light (which hasn’t been working for a while) and found it was burnt out!! Need to buy a new bulb for that one!
This afternoon was spent cleaning, cutting and placing the new carpet for the main cabin. We found replacement carpet at Home Depot and it needed to be cut into 2 pieces to fit under our table and 2 chairs. It was loads of fun (not!!) trying to cut this stiff carpet inside the boat. Last time we did this we had the luxury of the Reynolds pier to work on – oh the space – and the old carpets to use as a template. This time it was measuring and cutting in place. I’m happy to say the carpet fits well and looks great!! Good for another few years!
I’ve forgotten to mention some of the noises we’ve been experiencing down here. As you may be aware, the US has increased their military presence in the Caribbean and we have definitely heard and noticed it here. There is an old naval base and airfield just south of us and we’ve been hearing (and occasionally seeing) F 35 fighter jets taking off from the base. It’s a bit unnerving to have all this military around but hopefully we won’t encounter them on the water!!
Getting back to the calm weather window this weekend, it will allow us to head to Culebra on Saturday (about 25 nm east) where we’ll anchor overnight. The next day we’re hoping to make it all the way to the BVIs (another 45 nm) where we’ll clear into the country at Soper’s Hole. Fingers crossed the weather holds!!
Crimson Kathryn and her crew 