Here I go again, heading to the boat and the slow life of the canals. Once again it’s tough to leave. There were some amazing family get-togethers this weekend, celebrating Rianne’s sister and her family’s return from the South Seas, Mother’s Day, the end of a long struggle, and a good-bye for me. They are incredible people, I love them all and will miss them so much. However, the boat needs some work!

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Last year was so busy, I didn’t get much (anything!) done on the boat. Being steel, it tends to need sanding and painting of certain areas regularly. I’ve almost got the roof up to snuff but the rubrails get constant abuse, as does certain other parts of the deck. I’d like to get at the bow compartment again too, and the engine room needs a touch up.

So, I’ve now arrived at the boat, it’s in the water and all is (mostly) good! Seems there was quite a bit of water in the engine room, no idea how. No more seems to be coming in so I’ll have to wait and see. It’s always been bone dry before. The roof is in great shape, dirty but no new rust! Got some groceries delivered, filled with water and I was off within a couple of days.

The first ‘adventure’ is one I’ve been looking very forward too. By lucky happenstance, Jane and Dana are visiting their son and daughter-in-law in Kettering, which is a short drive from where the boat is! We arranged for a day trip to the pub, and it was fantastic. However, it soon became a bit more of an adventure than I would have liked. As I approached a bridge I put the boat in reverse (as usual, to slow down) and something gave way. I either hit something with the propeller or the split pin (Cotter pin) let go but either way, the propeller parted ways with me and the boat!

I’ll be spending the next few days (hopefully few) getting a tow to the marina to get it replaced. I think insurance will cover it so I’m mostly annoyed at the delay. I am anxious to get to the boat show on the coming weekend.

As I’m waiting, I can get some cleaning and work done on the boat. I really couldn’t have asked for a better spot to break down either. Super quiet, nice walks around the fields across the bridge, great solar and internet, and I’ve got water and groceries (since I just started out!). Small blessings.

The marina organized a tow the very next day (Tuesday). It was uneventful and only took about 3 hours (they had estimated up to 8 hours) but upon arrival it turned out that while the propeller is expected by Wednesday, the special nut that holds it on won’t be available until Thursday. So sitting (and doing some cleaning and work) a few more days.

Tick tock, tick tock……

Okay, it’s Thursday morning now. No nut yet, and the travel lift is occupied. I’m starting to stress but there’s simply nothing I can do.

Tick tock, tick tock……

Okay, finally done, and off and cruising. Crick Boat Show next stop!