5th March 2016 – One of the first jobs that had to be done was removing the plastic windows and replace them with proper aluminum windows. I always used RAFA windows because of their quality. They are expensive, but if you look around, they are easy to find second hand. Last year I bought four windows. This means I have two more to find. Since I have some portholes left, I will put in two portholes. Saves me some money.
24th February 2007 – When windows are placed, between their frame and the steel of the den, there is always a small gap, just enough to let water slowly enter the boat. Therefore you can make use of packing or silicon. It took us some time to fit the windows nicely and close them with silicon.
In the afternoon, the pipes for the toilet, shower and exhaust were placed on the waste water tank.
A lock was created to close the door from the outside and the inside. Later that evening some more welding was done on the bulkhead.
23th February 2007 – I had prepared everything for the trip (see article), but forgot about putting weight in the back, so the propeller would be under the water, not halve above. If the propeller is above water, you can’t sail backwards! Therefore I filled the new waste water tank with canal water.
The deck was painted on the side visible in Bruges. This will make her look nicer for when we arrive somewhere next week.
The holes for the portholes of the bedrooms and corridor were drilled, those of the kitchen and bathroom re drilled.
Some more plating of the watertight compartment were welded.
In the late evening the preparations for the trip were discussed, while drinking some coffee and beer.