Voyage 2002-2003: Chapter 1

We previously reported that the Jule III underwent a major refit from July 2001 through March 2002. This week, we started the re-commissioning process by removing the cover, sanding the deck, and connecting the various doo-dads that we took off during the refit.

Of course, it rained once the cover was off making our chores the more difficult. We should complete all of our tasks by 20 March 02. We calculate that we spent over a 1,000 hours working on the Jule III. It will be well worth the toil once we are nestled in the Bahamas!

22 Mar 2002, Journal of S/V Jule III (The Survey), 38 46.464 N/ 076 33.955 W

This past Tuesday, Peter Hartoft conducted a survey of the Jule III. Peter conducted the initial pre purchase survey in August 1995. He is known for his thoroughness and great advice. We are happy to say the Jule III passed with flying colors. He loved our new decks. Bob earlier had a dream that we would discover a rotten hull. We are glad to say that his dream did not come true.

Peter did provide guidance on how to better protect the electrical wiring which we are now implementing. Also, he recommended that we replace the fuel tank vent hose with a Coast Guard approved type. Lastly, he suggested that we bond the fuel fill receptacle. All will be done before our sail back to homeport.

26 Mar 2002, Spash 2002, 38 46.500 N/ 076 33.880 W

It has been 8 months and 21 days and 5 hours since S/V Jule III has had water under her keel. Our excitement can not be expressed fully. Our work is finally paying off. The yard had some difficulty getting her out of her land berth. The ground was still wet and she had to be pulled out via trailer. After and hour and a half, she was berthed on the bulkhead next to the well at Herrington Harbour North.

The babies enjoyed embarking (no pun) and claimed their turf. Levi and Bob had an encounter on who should be on the main salon berth. A lightning storm came up tonight and scared the pee out of Levi. We hope he soon gets used the rumble and bumble of the storms. The storm is letting up now. Ann is in bed. Gina is in the berth with her, Sammantha Jane is watching me type, and Levi is under the table. Six months to go to the Bahamas!