Tuesday, May 4, 2010

More boats

Although we never thought it possible, even more boats have slipped into the anchorage. We're packed in like sardines, but everyone is friendly, and with our bow and stern anchors out, there is little movement, so not much to worry about, as long as the conditions remain mild...

John and I discussed our crossing over our morning tea and coffee on the terrace (read: cockpit), and tried to summarize the passage. Surprisingly, the 3000 miles took only 23 days, less time than our last passage from Mexico to the Galapagos which took 25 days for 1700 miles. Crazy. We were also pleased that we didn't suffer any major breakdowns or difficulties. Although we had lots of chafe, where lines and sails wore through due to the constant friction. Here's a summary:

1. Monitor Self-Steering lines had major chafe, and one of the blocks needs to be replaced. This was our hardest working crew member, and steered for the entire 3000 miles.

2. Steering pedestal bearings wore out, as evidenced by new squeaking noises.

3. Genoa furling drum broke - for the last few days of our passage, we could not sail with a partially furled sail - it was all or nothing. No big deal. Winds had calmed down, and we were happy with the full sail.

4. Engine overheating - the engine was running a bit hotter than usual (190 degrees). We ran at a lower RPM to compensate. We checked our cooling system to be sure we didn't have a blockage. We now need to dive to make sure that there isn't growth on the intake, and check our (new) heat exchanger, to be sure it is operating correctly.

5. Mold - the front v-berth is converted to storage on a big passage, and it is not very well ventilated. As a result, mold and mildew formed with
abandon. Thankfully, I was able to scrub the mattress cushions, and they have come out ok. Not sure if we'll be so lucky with the comforter...although we don't need it down here anyway.

6. Fishing gear - well, we lost several lures, and one fish ran away with an entire set of line and lure. Oh well.

Not bad at all. Nothing debilitating!

2 comments:

atabata said...

Good thing we'll be there soon to resupply you with all the needed parts (and food requests!!!)
Amy and Strahan

Ron said...

So happy for you both. Life seems pretty nice where you are at. At this end life is grand. A grey whale has managed to make its way into False Creek on its way to Alaska. An omen...I think!? Love and hugs...Ron

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Hi - thanks for leaving a comment on the blog! Cheers - John and Naomi