In this publication16 photos
I’m pleased I moved to a new boat. Happy with her, even.
When I viewed her, it seemed there was hardly anything to do. Much of what I had planned to fit to Rassvet one day was already there: a windvane self-steering system, recent rigging, a comfortable galley, a fridge and a large table where I could actually work. All that remained was to collect the boat and set off.
In the first 160 miles, the jobs list grew considerably.
Almost two weeks afloat
From 1 to 11 September 2026, I sailed Aurora from Denmark to Kiel. The weather was thoroughly unhelpful: I spent days waiting in marinas, checking each new forecast for a chance to move on. Including the preparations before departure, I spent almost two weeks aboard.
I was underway for 36 hours. The rest of the time, I was properly living aboard: working, cooking and learning how the boat’s systems worked. Then a weather window would open and I would move on to the next marina.
I really enjoyed that unhurried way of living afloat. Of course, I didn’t always feel like sitting around waiting for the wind to drop. But being able to live on the boat and change my surroundings from time to time turned out to be rather lovely.
Over the whole route, I covered 160 nautical miles at an average of 4.4 knots. What stayed with me most was the gentle motion. Into the waves, Aurora lifted and lowered me smoothly. That was exactly the sort of comfort I had hoped for.
What still needs doing
The main concern is still diesel consumption. I found myself filling up far too often, with just one thought: don’t run out. We’ve already found some leaks. I’m hoping new copper sealing washers and hose clips will improve matters.
Speed worries me too. On Rassvet, I was used to sailing faster under genoa alone, and so far it feels as though I’ve traded some performance for comfort. But I’ll reserve judgement until next season, after giving the bottom some proper attention. For now, I still want to believe it’s simply fouling.
I also need to learn to berth all over again. The manoeuvres that came naturally on Rassvet don’t work on long-keeled Aurora. Three attempts to get into my own berth made it particularly clear how much practice I still need. I’m comfortable with her at sea; alongside, I’m still rather nervous.
There is certainly plenty to do to make the boat my own. And it isn’t just her systems I need to get used to, but the way she moves and responds to what I do.
People who help
It’s a wonderful thing to have people around who are willing to offer advice or lend a hand. Grisha met me in Kiel and noticed that I was unconsciously reducing the tiller angle. Then he gave me a whole workshop on my own engine. We started it, watched it running and looked for leaks. Afterwards, I understood it much better.
I’m very grateful for that help. Getting to know a new boat together was a pleasure.
Aurora already feels like mine. She is exactly the boat I’ve always wanted. And now I know I’ll be keeping her for years to come.
P.S. Credit for the comic-strip idea goes to Captain Reggie. Should I keep it going and develop it further?