Getting Ready

It has always been our plan "when we retire" to go on the long sail somewhere, but circumstances are bringing the schedule forward a bit to "while we still both can".

So this July, Robin and Sue are off for a 56 days sail, with a view to going around mainland Britain on their trusty Prout 31 catamaran, Catabout.

Two months with no schedule, except that set by the wind and the waves. No appointments. Well just one in Dublin in August, but more about that later.

The last few weeks have seen an increasing amount of work getting Catabout ready. New rigging and halyards. New lights , antenna and sheaves (the rollers that the ropes run over) at the top of the mast. New cushions for the saloon. Loads of new electronic stuff. (What else would you expect on Robin's boat?)

New foul weather clothing for both. (This is Britain after all) Check the lifejackets, get the liferaft serviced. New charts and pilot books. Check the oil in the engine, grease the leg.

Exciting and scary too. Did you know that round Britain is the same as to Newfoundland distance wise?

Planning the supplies. Thank heavens Ocado deliver to Tollesbury. Two months is a long time when you have to think of everything. You can't just nip to the corner shop at sea.

So much to do and so little time.