Winter is wet!

[christopherc]

Down to swansea for a couple of half term days, incurable optimism dashed as rain came in during a dash into bay, got back cold and wet but the webasto soon sorted us out. Crew standing up well considering, three daughters sitting reading, wife showering for extra comfort! Takeaway curry about to be consumed, along with wine! I would post you a picture if I knew how, will have to look up.

First season as owner, kept boat in water in hope of winter sailing, not much success so far. Now noticed sheets turning green and collecting muck generally, sails too which are looking fairly sad now. Realising this is why many of you lay boats up. Ah well, only one way to learn these lessons. Any suggestions on how to deal with grime welcome, I was thinking of chucking sheets in washing machine when noone is looking.

Overall worth it though, have to keep up spirit of adventure when we can.

Now, where's that corkscrew....?

 

[Rum_Pirate]

Power washer ! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

 

[christopherc]

ah, was going to ask about one of those. I was a bit worried I might damage seals etc, its a good way of destroying sealed bearings on a bike

 

[Twister_Ken]

Soak them in the bath with Calgon.

 

[Boathook]

Tried the power washer on ropes. Had to buy new ropes after 2 years. Washing machine best. Cleaning sails is another matter.

 

[steveallan]

Most of us have learned this the hard way. I now use old sails if I want to sail in winter.
Washing machine for ropes etc. If sails old use a laundrette or water and bleach. If not have them cleaned by a sailmaker.

 

[Gordonmc]

Stick with it.
Even rainy days are better aboard than watching telly at home. Occasionally you get the cream on the bun... winter sun and enough breeze to get you home (berth/mooring/anchorage).

 

[peterb]

[ QUOTE ]
I was thinking of chucking sheets in washing machine when noone is looking.

[/ QUOTE ]

Don't just chuck 'em in, that's a recipe for tangling. Put 'em in an old pillow slip first.

 

[christopherc]

These sails are 2002, looking tired, might have to consider retiring them to winter use after this season i guess.