Lots of people ask what we’re going to do prior to leaving on our cruise. Of course, we make a list. I’m currently using a Basecamp free account (just google it, it’s cool) to keep track of boat projects. See below for a current todo list. If this is interesting to anyone, I’ll see about doing some kind of live update.
Safety Todo
- re-certify life raft
- new battery for Epirb
- purchase backup gps
- need horn
- need flares
- check equipment against Coast Guard list and against offshore Cat0 list
More Cowbell General Work
- refurbish outboard
- stove - fix/replace sparking device
- ssb - attach antennae wire to backstay, test
- troubleshoot vhf radio cockpit mike
- wind generator, repair replace tail piece and output wiring
- troubleshoot/repair diesel heater
- anti-siphon hose should be heat rated
- service engine throttle controls - WD40?
- remark AC and DC electrical panels with new labels
- add placard for discharge of solid waste at sea
- tidy up wiring
- stern light is using the boat’s bonding system - horrible for corrosion, inspect the rest of the boat.
- eliminate all wiring going directly to ship’s batteries (Except for perhaps a bilge pump)
- add a cover to the starting battery bank
- double clamp all raw water hoses and everything under the water line
- clean fuel tanks, service fuel filters
- repair/replace jury rigged fuel line to the diesel heater, the line should be of an approved type for a fuel line
- service and recertify fire extinguishers
- redo securing bolts on cabin steps
- mount forward fire extinguisher on coast guard approved mount
- tension windvane steering lines so as to avoid interference with the steering quadrant or the autopilot
- service winches
- add a piece of line to the all chain anchor rode, so that it may be cut from deck
- repair/remove transom boarding ladder
- new canvas - cost and opportunity
- replace/rig reefing lines
- replace vang, traveller, and mainsheet lines
- learn how to do weather faxes, sailmail
- repair/replace inverter
Sort Personal Life
- cancel memberships, subscriptions, etc…
- find home school for Sam and acquire course materials
- catch-up Dana’s resume
- catch-up David’s resume
- make Bethancourt burgee
- cost and acquire health insurance
- Sell Lincoln
- sell BMW
- change mailing address (to Michigan?)
Make House Ready For Sale/Rental
- paint stairwell and living room
- declutter!
- sign in the front yard?
- contact real-estate agent
- paint side door
- fix dog pen gate
