WITH OUR TRIP SCHEDULED TO START IN TWO MONTHS, we’re busy with last-minute work on the Osprey. The bottom has been coated with anti-fouling paint. Roof rails, which will hold a pair of 12-foot Eddyline Skylark kayaks, have been reseated (bolt holes sealed with butyl tape), and a new Wallas stove installed.

Week after next, the boat will go over to EQ Harbor Service, at Cornet Bay, for some last-minute work, including installing a new Airmar P66 transducer capable of measuring speed through water. Cathy, Carl and Stan have been fantastic to work with, getting Osprey ready for the trip.

Our very partial todo list includes:

  • Make appointment for boat maintenance in Ketchikan
  • Clean and fill water tank
  • Clean sliding window tracks
  • Reposition radar reflector
  • Food provisioning for trip
  • Install new insect screens
  • Repairs to window curtains
  • Build web page with InReach map (that’s what I’m doing right now!)
  • Start a box of materials, e.g. Tohatsu manual, for trip
  • Get stern line reel
  • Start trip expense ledger
  • Install Hypervent under V-berth mattress
  • Buy new cabin rugs
  • Buy four additional 6-gallon Gerry cans
  • Clean, waterproof and re-install camperback
  • Measure area under berth for Scepter water containers
  • Install new wiper blades
  • Lube steering
  • Install Airmar P66 transducer (part # 010-10192-21)
  • Pick up spares (extra prop, oil filters, impellers, spark plugs, wiper blades, etc.)
  • Install new lazarette hatches
  • Reset engine maintenance meter
  • Review tool kit contents
  • Fix starboard gas tank cap chain