The Way We Were

Saturday 8 December 2018

Schematic from Hylas builder Queen Long Marine shows post extending through lower hinge to bottom of rudder, but this is not what is evident on our boat. Plus, Hallberg-Rassys, also designed by Argentinian German Frers, are built that way so imagine our surprise. OK, don't do that, it's not worth the bother, but we're convinced (stated with great aplomb) that this design is better because, although potentially not as strong under severe loads, if it does break there's still steerage and the whole thing isn't ripped through the bottom, which tends to lessen one's already tenuous enjoyment of the moment. One finds solace where one may.

After spending the first night on the boat in the yard on the hard, decided on the ignominy of getting a room ashore. Although surrounded by soil and always anchored in the same unchanging place with a regrettable stableness that makes walking difficult, dirt-dwelling is not without some minimal appeal. There are full flow showers, one pump toilets and, assuming one pays his bills, all the electricity needed or wanted regardless of battery charge. Although less fun and more expensive, cars are somewhat more convenient for accessing products and services than dinghies and feet. Temperatures can be better regulated, but stale air often results. Many things are done more quickly and easily, but opportunities for character building are woefully lacking and complacency is an ever-lurking specter. Admittedly, while being stuck in a single location with the same scenery, the same neighbors doing the same things at the same places on the same days is a way of life that a few eccentric people love, it's not for everyone.

Jack