Back to the wonderful Italian island of Sicily. Their Triacria flag is somewhat disturbing (a Medusa head set in the middle of three naked legs)! Everything else is much to our liking. The friendly people, the history, the food and the wine. And also the wonderful facilities we have found here in Licata. Giuseppe's growing yard at Oceanica Marine Services where Giuseppe and his father Paulo can handle any task in woodwork, metal or fiberglass. And apparently keels that are about to fall off! Two yachts with bolted on keels were being repaired in their yard. Certainly feeling comfortable about Necessity's encapsulated modified full keel configuration.
The other big plus for us is the well appointed marina here in Licata. Marina di Cala del Sole is only three years old, very spacious, close to provisioning outlets and even comes with a laundry. There are certain joys in a cruiser's life that differ from land-bound folks.
After the obligatory pre-launch issues (dead batteries) we were gently placed into the blue waters of the Med once again. After some steady work by my excellent and very capable crew (Joe, Lor and Crew) I am glad to report that the ship is fully dressed (sail have been bent on), lots of cold beverages and grub have found their way into the galley and all the dirt has been washed away (it has not rained here since May).
So we await the arrival of one more crew and an appropriate weather window before casting off for places known.