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| Anchored in South Bay, Carleton Island, NY |
It's been over two years since I entered a Post. Now, as the final stages are being planned, Distant Horizon is nearly ready for her sea trial. So, I decided to re-start the blog.
Seven years of work, sailing, and preparation, have gotten us to this point. There is still work to be done, but Distant Horizon is ready for her sea trial, which has been planned as a cruise from the New York City area to St. Georges, Bermuda.
This past year's enhancements started below the waterline; fairing the keel; rudder rebuild with a new skin, seals and bushings. There was also a barrier coat and new bottom paint. All this work was contracted out to Watercraft Clinic. Their work was masterful. The boat speed was increased by almost half a knot and steerage can be maintained three tenths of a knot slower. Then there was the addition of two new head sails: a 135% genoa and an 85% heavy weather working jib. Next, a rigging change was made: the addition of a jack stay. The new jack stay and heavy weather sail combination moved the center of effort farther aft. This combination worked fabulously! The boat was well balanced even in a moderate gale with sustained winds of 38mph gusting over 50mph!
I'm currently working in Virginia. Being 9 hours from home is not the most enjoyable situation, but this will best provide the funds for Distant Horizon's next round of enhancements.
The first enhancement for this year will be the purchase of a wind vane steering system. Hopefully, the purchase will be made around the first of the year. Although, I can not install it until the boat is in the water; probably early April. That will be followed by two more head sails: a drifter for light air sailing and a storm sail for conditions at the other end of the spectrum.
After 7 years, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Distant Horizon will be going to Bermuda in June 2012!
