Preparing for the half year we cannot easily use the boat is plenty of work. This year, we fitted a heavy duty tarp over the boat from the mast aft. Maybe we'll fit a smaller tarp over the forward sections. What this all means is that we take a rectangular tarp from the hardware store and cut it to match the odd angles and curves of a yacht. To add to the drama, the fitting session was a windy day.
The end result is a winter cover that fits well. It is also a template for a more durable winter cover to be built later. Elizabeth measured, cut, and sewed the tarp in our attic loft. It is a challenge to fit the fabric into the sewing machine. One thinks that E might like a canvass-making loft to appear in the basement some day soon? A new sewing machine, too?
The real test is what it looks like after the first good snowfall. Is the cover going to stay put? The heavy snow will, we hope, slide off the steeply pitched roof and into the harbor. Other work we have completed in preparation for winter is to anti freeze the water system and de-salt the engine's raw water cooling system. Oil and filter changes next up. We keep the bottom scrubbed clean. Just in case we need to go for a sail.
Inside the boat and cover is cozy. The stove and tea kettle remain, of course. How does one do winter work without a hot cuppa?
Piers Park is our summer home. Here is the view with bare trees after a couple of stormy days. The park is well cared for as evidenced by the green lawn and absence of leaves. Winter sailing plans for Averisera is the New Years Day Race sponsored by the Constitution YC. Past years we have done the RC work. This year, the boat is ready to go racing.
