The Joys of the Haul Out
Let's face it. The annual haul out is a necessary evil. You know it is going to cost more than you think. The yard will find things in need of repair that are a surprise. And then there is the lift.
I've seen OceanFlyer in the slings about 6 times now. There is still that sense of anxiety as the weight of the boat is transferred from the water to the slings. The sound of the rigging bearing the weight of the boat, and the sounds from the boat as it adjusts to the caress of the slings, always makes you flinch.
OceanFlyer in the Slings at Anacortes
It's not all negative. Knowing your boat leaves the yard in better condition than it entered is a good feeling.
Below the waterline is where you see the biggest change. It comes out of the water with all manner of growth and slime clinging to the hull. And the zincs are pitted and half their original size. After a power wash, a good sanding and a new coat of bottom paint, the boat looks almost new. The zincs are new and shiny and you feel all is well with the world.
Clean and Ready for Another Year of Cruising the Pacific Northwest
Then the time comes to put her back in the water and the concerns about what can happen during transport come back. What's unique about North Harbor Diesel is that the yard is about six blocks from the ramp. So when you see your boat "driving" down the road, you realize how much you need to trust the lift operators.
Road Trip