In this publication10 photos
My yacht’s launch was booked for 4 April 2024. A special, nervous moment needing careful preparation: even a small detail can wreck the plan.
Preparation
I arrived in the morning. After painting the hull, one important task remained: the boat’s name and home port. I’d ordered a 40cm-wide vinyl RASSVET and a little 17cm-wide italic of Kiel . Like fitting a phone screen protector, straightforward. Lined it up by eye; it seemed straight.
Next, the mooring lines. Two long lines secured to cleats and dropped down the starboard side, to stop the yacht spinning in the wind on the crane. Three tonnes spinning like a top is impressive, but undesirable.
I suddenly remembered to test the engine. Odd that it only occurred now, not weeks ago. I started it for seconds: without water, the cooling system can’t circulate. Then remembered the fuel tank had been shut after filter servicing. Opened the valve in time. Good to remember before launch.
Next, inflatable fenders along the sides to protect the hull against the pier.
Finally, marine grease on the log sensor. Last season, it worked for a couple of months, then stubbornly read no more than 0.6 knots. At autumn’s lift-out a whole fistful of barnacles covered it. Hopefully, grease will help it last this season.
The launch
I’d just finished when the harbourmaster called: ten minutes until my turn. He came with the tractor, lifted the cradle and took the yacht to the crane.
While they secured her, I had a chance to touch up the inaccessible patches: beneath the keel and under the four cradle pads. They lifted her half a metre and held her there. Quick, careful work, paint flying everywhere. How I regretted not changing into work clothes.
Finally, gently afloat, with ten minutes to check for leaks. Below, I opened all the valves and felt the joints: dry. Back to the cockpit, signal all clear. Slings off, crane prepared for the next yacht.
Engine started, cooling water confirmed at the exhaust, I eased away towards my berth. A broad smile appeared of its own accord. Relief, happiness and… anticipation.
#maintenance
Preparation
I arrived in the morning. After painting the hull, one important task remained: the boat’s name and home port. I’d ordered a 40cm-wide vinyl RASSVET and a little 17cm-wide italic of Kiel . Like fitting a phone screen protector, straightforward. Lined it up by eye; it seemed straight.
Next, the mooring lines. Two long lines secured to cleats and dropped down the starboard side, to stop the yacht spinning in the wind on the crane. Three tonnes spinning like a top is impressive, but undesirable.
I suddenly remembered to test the engine. Odd that it only occurred now, not weeks ago. I started it for seconds: without water, the cooling system can’t circulate. Then remembered the fuel tank had been shut after filter servicing. Opened the valve in time. Good to remember before launch.
Next, inflatable fenders along the sides to protect the hull against the pier.
Finally, marine grease on the log sensor. Last season, it worked for a couple of months, then stubbornly read no more than 0.6 knots. At autumn’s lift-out a whole fistful of barnacles covered it. Hopefully, grease will help it last this season.
The launch
I’d just finished when the harbourmaster called: ten minutes until my turn. He came with the tractor, lifted the cradle and took the yacht to the crane.
While they secured her, I had a chance to touch up the inaccessible patches: beneath the keel and under the four cradle pads. They lifted her half a metre and held her there. Quick, careful work, paint flying everywhere. How I regretted not changing into work clothes.
Finally, gently afloat, with ten minutes to check for leaks. Below, I opened all the valves and felt the joints: dry. Back to the cockpit, signal all clear. Slings off, crane prepared for the next yacht.
Engine started, cooling water confirmed at the exhaust, I eased away towards my berth. A broad smile appeared of its own accord. Relief, happiness and… anticipation.
#maintenance
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