The list of boat projects always grow prior to a passage. Whether they're born from a moment of reflection or the discovery of a new problem - they just do. I cannot tell you why the radar or even a sheet winch will cease to function after several months of inactivity, but that's exactly what happens. Some captains say boats are like their wives - ignore them and it will cost you!
Aside from rebuilding the ship's heads (toilets) or routine engine maintenance, this stay has been unusually busy with sail repair, and a few improvements I've been planning to do for some time. First up was sewing a cover for the life raft
, then I hand-stitch a leather cover around the helm wheels.
The final touch to our new helms was a "Turks head", so you know when the wheel is centered without looking. Then, I finally made a comfy cushion for the cockpit.
Since Home Depot only had one piece of foam, one will have to do. Kauai is an Island, so it's a bit ironic that it's so hard to find boat stuff locally.
Cheers from Huzzah.