Black Panther

You talking about me?

The big one to remember is to hit the battery switch first. I lost maybe 10sec there and the flames doubled in size

Absolutely nothing to do with sailing other than explaining why we haven't been out lately, but this is the biggest bruise I have ever had.

I currently have insurance. I have never had it for offshore sailing. I have been without it in the past. Being without it doesn't get me all hot and sweaty. I maintain my boat and I'm quite confident in my ability to handle it. I only haulout rarely, twice in 8 years (yay coppercoat). The marinas have only got stroppy about such things relatively recently. I have cheated on occasion. I would have no problem switching to 3rd party if it would avoid some of the nonsense and unnecessary expense. Or getting something short term just for hauling . Don't know if that is even available.

Having lived most of my life with gas with no problem, and having had an electrical fire on board, maybe I'm slightly biased.

A single hob isn't really cooking is it?

Copper coat, seems to work.

I think when the time comes it might be easier to let the insurance lapse.

Cooking time short?.a good roast takes over an hour.

We followed a a couple of 1104s out to Channel is in 50kns and I was wishing I was on them instead.

This isn't hard advice but I would think about what you want the boat to do. Serious ocean cruising the Van de Stadt, it will work for coastal but comes into its own offshore. Coastal cruising the Farr or the Alan Wright would probably be better and either could handle the odd trip to the islands properly handled. It comes down to what's in your head.

https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/motors/boats-marine/yachts/keeler/listing/4529675504

I know these people, met them in Mexico years ago. Boat will take you anywhere https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/motors/boats-marine/yachts/keeler/listing/4548707297

A few options https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/motors/boats-marine/yachts/keeler/listing/4541277385

No, that was a paid delivery.

Also did whangrei to Brisbane a while back. Just sailed due north till it warmed up then turned left.

Did August to November a few years back, no problem at all. Exactly as you described.

Maybe just one more example of a much wider decline.?

I lived with that for 8 yrs, good stove.

Called Agua Mala (bad water) in Mexico. Can't see them but itchy little buggers. A function of warmer water?

It's a skyhook. Used to lift the boat for cleaning in remote places.

No, but you made me Google waterside venom.

Are you guys tlking racing or cruising? For a trip on the coast i have a quick look at the forecast (up to 1 minute) and if there's nothing nasty i go sailing.

Hang out at Mahurangi till Sunday