August 29th, 2025
After a short break on land, it was time to get back to what boat life is really about — fixing, improving, and keeping this floating home seaworthy. My next challenge: rebuilding the anchor locker.
When I first installed my new windlass system, I realized the locker needed more than just cosmetic attention. The structure underneath needed proper reinforcement before I could safely mount the new anchor windlass.
The project started with grinding and sanding the inside of the locker to expose the solid layers below. Then came the fiberglass work — reinforcing the base from underneath and rebuilding the structure to handle the heavy loads of the chain and windlass. Once the fiberglass cured, I adjusted the mounting plate and carefully aligned everything so the chain would run smoothly from the bow roller to the gypsy.
It’s a messy, dusty job — the kind of work that tests your patience but feels incredibly rewarding once things start coming together. Seeing the new anchor windlass firmly mounted and the locker reinforced gave me that deep sense of satisfaction every boat owner knows: one more system ready for sea.
Of course, life aboard never pauses for just one project. There are always a dozen small tasks waiting in the background — from chasing leaks to managing power, water, and the endless to-do list that defines off-grid boat living. But each repair brings the boat closer to being truly self-sufficient and ready for the next big sail.
That’s what I love about this life — it’s not just maintenance, it’s progress. One layer of fiberglass at a time.
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Cheers
Paul – SY ANIMA