Departure preparations under way
20 July 2012 | Beaufort, NC
Hot (90) sunny, windy (30+kts)
Well, we're now actively planning for our departure, having decided on dates and a rough idea of our initial route.
Here's the schedule:
Michelle will finis work November 16th, I have my last school Nov 18th, then we'll put Audrey on the hard for final bottom prep/painting, then spend thanksgiving in NJ with family (hopefully all the kids/grandkids will be there!).
After that we'll make a trip to Europe to visit Michelle's parents and my sister.
Then we plan to leave Beaufort 1st or 2nd week in December, weather window dependent, aiming to go direct to the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, about an 11 day trip outside the Gulf Stream. Initial destination will be British or US Virgin Islands or maybe Antigua, depending on winds/weather.
Then we'll slowly make our way towards the Panama Canal via the Windward Islands, with a loose plan to transit the Canal in March or April.
Only 5 months to go and still so much to do - we sat down last night and prioritized and updated our lists of boat projects and other preparations (making copies of documents, updating charts, ordering cruising guides, arranging for vehicles and skiff to be sold/looked after, etc).
Of the boat projects, we've made really good progress on the list, with the main projects left to do before we leave:
- Complete installation of water maker
- Repack liferaft
- install retractable stern ladder
- Inspect all standing rigging, replace running backstays and topping lift with Amsteel
- Order remaining spares for pumps and wind vane
All other projects left on the list can be done when we're underway.
Very excited now - we're definite;y ready!!