Since I'm one of those people...

Posted By: Adam Plourde - Seafarer 24 "Godot" - Chesepeake Bay
Date: 10/13/07 9:29p.m.

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In Response To: What's YOUR thoughts on what makes a boat "blue water" ready? (pic) (Charlie Jones, Meridian 25 Tehani, Magnolia Beach, Texas)

It's probably fair to mention that I will probably not do the trips I mentioned, but I enjoy thinking about it. And you never know! My Seafarer 24 has some significant issues that would need to be resolved before I'd feel comfortable waaay off shore. I think I've mentioned most of them before. The sail area needs to be able to be reduced further than my one reef and non-reefing working jib can do. (I'd probably start with new sails...probably) Taller life lines (preferably doubled). (looks like a reasonably simple fix) Better non-skid. (paint?) Better toe rail. (I have an idea for a cheap fix) Hard points and jack lines for hooking in. (I think these would be good idea for just working the Chesapeake) Smaller companionway. (at the very least, it needs to be raised over the level of the cockpit seats) The cockpit locker needs to be sealed from the interior. (this could be tricky) The cockpit locker needs to be able to be securely locked closed. Bigger/more cockpit drains. (probably on the agenda anyhow) Cockpit mounted manual bilge pump. Fuel locker needs to be securable. Self steering. (right now I badly want an autopilot; but for serious offshore use I would want a wind vane) All lockers below decks need to be lockable/securable. At least one good sea berth per crew. Preferably, at least one on each side. (I've already made some changes and am moving this way. The quarter berth just needs a lee board to be ok, I think) Ability to cook underway. Gimbles on the stove. (Seacook style?) At least in my case, the batteries need a much better tie down (I don't trust those little plastic hooks with the little screws.) (should be done anyway) Bigger/more batteries. (Again, unless I buy some big solar panels, this needs to be done anyway) Water tank needs a better tie down. (Should be simple enough, I think) Port lights need some beefing up. I don't know if covers are really necessary, or if thicker acrylic would be good enough. I'd hate to block out the light. Well, that's a start. It seems a bit overwhelming when looked at this way; but most of the jobs shouldn't be too difficult (although a few would be a bear). As I gain experience I suspect my thoughts may change. As to preparing the crew, well, everyone has their own comfort level and prepare accordingly. I'm not sure where my comfort level is, yet. I'm still slowly expanding my envelope.