Crew arrived at Brewers Pilots Point Marina on 13th June – all work done by excellent team and boat final prep started. Jason, Judy, Grace and Nicola arrived early hours on 13th – all upgraded courtesy of assorted airlines. Marcus arrived later that day. Previously keel has been removed and checked. On headsail hoist had foil issues so Pilots Point crane used to sort. Jason went up the mast – a first. By now ORR rating had been completed. Outstanding safety requirements in hand (additional liferaft required for numbers). Paul, Sarah, Roger and Megan arrived next day. Left Sunday afternoon for gentle trip up to Mystic – beautiful river and ate at S & P restaurant having been given lift by George and Mary-Kay our neighbours. Berthed in Mystic Shipyard. Left Monday morning for 57nm trip to Newport. 10-12 knot breeze on the beam – undertook all crew training for Man Overboard, trysail and storm jib hoist. Drogue emergency steering tested and effective.
Heartbeat IV prior to refit
Heartbeat IV in the US of A
Drogue steering trial
Heartbeat IV berthed in Newport Shipyard
Commander Blande being fattest and most unfit was thrown over the side. Recovered. Lovely sail up to Newport Shipyard – avoiding lobster pots. Great to round Fort Adams and go along Goat Island. Very efficient team at Newport – excellent berth at centre of action. EAORA flags flown with pride.
Recovery
Storm sails
Mystic Shipyard
Checking foil at Pilots Point
A typical New England lighthouse
The Commander sacrifices himself
I'm just going outside, I may be sometime