Saturday, February 14, 2009

Update on the Ernestina Re-fit

The historical Ernestina is heading toward completion of her major re-fit here at Boothbay Harbor Shipyard. With two months left before the launching of the Ernestina in April, the crew is working very hard to meet the deadline.

The planking covering the bow and midship is complete with the exception of one plank on the starboard side. With the completion of the planking, the chalking has begun on the hull. After the chalking is the sealing.

The building of the deck frame is nearly finished and the laying of the deck will begin shortly.

A template of the covering boards above the planking has been developed and the completion of the covering boards will be the next step toward wrapping up the Ernestina re-fit. Watch the VIDEO below showing the latest progress on the Ernestina

Monday, February 9, 2009

Progress of Belle Aventure

The two-year refit and refastening of Belle Aventure is less than three months from completion. The enormous task of refastening is 95% finished. The keel rabbet and stern post are left to be fastened.

The hull topside is being faired and the final coats of primer are being added.

The interior joinery (woodwork and cabinetry) in the cabins is near completion except for the paint and varnish.

A new engine bed for the new engine was built along with the cabin soles in all three heads and the shower drains, which have been rebuilt. Both the mechanical and electrical systems are in their final stages.

Nat Wilson is in the process of finishing the sails. The three new jibs and mizzen are completed with only the mainsail still to be sewn.

For the launching, we will wait for a very high tide in April.