When we got our new-to-use Hanse 531, some parts of the running rigging were in terrific shape, as they had been recently renewed, but some other parts quickly joined our to-do list.
New Plotter, Radar, and More
During our first summer with the Hanse 531, I tried my best to figure out the rather old Raymarine instruments. Eventually, however, I gave up (at least a little).
New Wheels
Among our first upgrades was to replace the original hide-covered steering wheels with something fresher.
Some Log Notes
Some days ago, we arrived safely back in Turku, having spent about six weeks’ worth of summer vacation aboard our Hanse sailboat. Here are some reflections (mostly) about the sailing stuff along the way.
New Upholstery
Our fifth sailing season has started! Here is a short run-through of one of our refit projects: upgrading the upholstery.
The Good Night Watch
After having enjoyed beautiful Kalmar for a few days, it was once again time to head forward. This time we had our sights set on lovely Copenhagen.
Going Slowly Upwind
It has been a struggle to gather reliable speed data from our new/old Hanse 531. Mostly because of calibration problems, but partly also because of archaic instruments operating on should-be-obsolete data networks. To start somewhere, I put together some really preliminary stuff we recorded during our sail from Visby to Kalmar.
Great/Terrible Sailing
After more than a week in Visby (yes, we loved the place!) the weather had settled enough for us to bid farewell and head out to seek new adventures. “To Kalmar!” the children were willing us, the night before our early departure, and that did sound like a great idea.
Hanse 531 Refit
Our current lovely boat was built in 2005 and lowered into the water for the first time in 2006. Now, although age is just a number (or so I keep telling myself), there are a few items we would want to update. This blog page is a summary of what we have thought of so far.
Thank You for the Music
We love music, and on our previous boat, we used to listen to music quite frequently. On our current Hanse 531, during our first season with her: unfortunately, not so much.