Following a slower pace in the second quarter, we’ve implemented a new strategy of visiting the shipyard in Alicante monthly. This hands-on approach allows us to accelerate our specific refit tasks, make timely decisions on critical path items, and ensure the shipyard team maintains project momentum. Each visit also serves as an opportunity to transport equipment that has been prepared and tested off-site.

Solar Panel Superstructure Assembled

The custom stainless steel superstructure for our solar array, fabricated by a specialized company in Ukraine, has arrived at the shipyard in Alicante. The assembly process went smoothly, requiring only minor, planned adjustments and welding.

With the superstructure now complete, we are strategically delaying the installation of the 40 solar panels. This precaution will minimize the risk of damage while other major construction tasks are underway.

Stainless Steel Handrails Rebuilt

Several sections of the handrails had sustained damage and required extensive restoration. We capitalized on the availability of a stainless steel welder to complete these crucial repairs concurrently with the superstructure assembly.

Custom Thermoforming of Aft Cabin Windows

Our initial attempt to form the methacrylate windows in place was unsuccessful, as the material failed to conform to the precise curvature of the aft cabin. The shipyard team devised an innovative solution: a custom-built oven. This allows us to heat the methacrylate sheets slowly while they are secured to a mold, achieving the exact required shape. The initial tests have been highly successful, and full production of the windows is scheduled for the upcoming month.

Grey and Black Water System Refit

We have standardized our waste management pumps by selecting the Jabsco 50890-1100 for all grey and black water tanks. All four pumps have been successfully installed. During this process, we discovered that two sinks were previously draining directly overboard. We have now rerouted their discharge lines into the grey water tanks to ensure full environmental compliance.

Port Engine Room Battery Supports Fabricated

After finalizing the layout for the electric motors and battery banks, we have constructed and installed the custom fiberglassed-wood supports in the port-side engine room. These will provide a secure and robust foundation to support the 400 kg of batteries for the new power system.

Backup Generator Installation

A significant logistical effort was required to maneuver the new Fischer Panda AGT18000 backup generator into position, due to its 265 kg and its large size. The process involved careful planning to move the unit through the boat’s interior and down into the starboard engine room, for which a custom wood ramp was constructed.

To regulate the 3 phases AC from the generator to DC, there is an electrical box named the VCS that must be installed near the generator, as the diodes of this VCS are water cooled on the raw water circuit of the generator. We reviewed all the possible options to position this box, and we decided to put it over the water line in the same cabinet as the electric hydraulic pump.

24V DC Interior Lighting Installation Underway

The installation of our new 24V DC electrical system has commenced, starting with the interior lighting. We have begun fitting the new low consumption LED lights and switches throughout the vessel.

On-Site Coordination and Planning

Our new monthly cadence of shipyard visits has proven highly effective. Each trip included productive planning sessions with the technical project team to outline upcoming tasks. We also utilized our time on-site to take extensive measurements, which is crucial for continuing detailed design work, such as electrical wire routing, while we are off-site.

These trips also allow us to deliver pre-tested, assembled or custom-built components from our home workshop, such as the large 96V DC circuit breaker shown here.

Additional Updates

• The propeller shaft stern tubes have been installed. Final alignment will be completed upon the arrival of the new motors.