Today we’ll go down memory lane a little bit. After arriving on the 7th of May our ship was lifted out on the 8th and high pressure washed. After that a first layer of aluminium primer was applied. Alas, the thick layer of tar, dating from 5 years back (Migennes, France) unexpectedly repelled the primer, in particular above the water-line… (11.05.2018)

Bear in mind that the extra work was unexpected and that there were days off like Ascension Day (+ the Friday thereafter) and both Whitsun Days (2 in The Netherlands). Therefore, apart from the weekends, 4 working days were cancelled out during our stay. Anyway, after finishing the described ‘Sisyphus-job’ at long last the first of two layers of aluminium primer was applied… (23.05.2018)

…followed by the first layer of high build, being the black stuff (no tar, never again!!), done on the 24th of May.

The next day, the 25th of May 2018, was one with quickly consecutive events, the first being the application of the (first layer of) red coloured anti-fouling.

After marking the limit of both black and red by taping up the job was eventually finished – and this the result. Isn’t she a beauty again?

We just couldn’t get enough of the sight. So here you see another picture of her attractive bum. It’s almost a shame to put her back in the not-so-clear canal-water.

Here the ship is already free from the trestle -on top of which she had been for almost three weeks- and hanging in the straps, ready to be lowered into the water again. Note the new anode, more of them visible on the pictures 6 and 7. After entering the water a minor hiccup occurred and caused us to remain at the yard during the weekend. What’s an extra 2 days after this long stay. Close to nothing!

Today, Monday the 28th of May 2018 – Leeuwarden. Finally we were able to leave Harlingen at 10:40AM. We moored in Leeuwarden at 1:39PM. Yes, we needed only 3 hours for, say, 24 kilometres/15 miles! Cruising speed over 4 knots an hour, although on our normal revs, being around 1.200 an hour, and even with a firm headwind. Would it be possible that the ship is faster because the smooth underside does not create any resistance???? Doesn’t she look gorgeous in the water? SRF did a great job – we are absolutely happy and would recommend them to anyone. This is it for this week. Hope to meet all of you again next week – most likely coming Sunday again.