Spring launch has come and gone without much fanfare except for yours truly. On April 14 we gracefully lowered M/V Big Run into the chilly waters at Long Cove Marina and with the aid of a pilot boat we reintroduced Big Run to her slip for one last boating season on the Chesapeake Bay before we become full time cruisers.
Just before the launch, Big Run received a fresh coat of bottom paint and the boot stripe was reworked. We tried something new this year for the rudder and prop. They each received a separate coat of anti-foulling paint designed especially for the running gear - we see how well it works next time we haul the boat. And for good measure, we installed a swim ladder for those inclined to go swimming with the nettles in the bay.
Once the boat had been launched, the fun didn't stop there. We also decided the chain locker needed a face lift. So I gave the locker a good scrubbing and applied 2 coats of bright white paint. Do you know what looks good with a newly refurbished chain locker? How about a new Delta Fast-Set plow style anchor with 250' of 3/4" three-strand anchor line. This will be our secondary anchor. Our primary anchor is an old reliable 66 lb. claw style anchor with 200' of 7/16 chain. That is some heavy gear which does give us comfort at night while we sleep. And we still have a emergency anchor (a 40 lb. Danforth with 400' of triple strand) in the lazarette and there are 2 Fortress anchors to boot.
Despite all the work, what it all boils down to is that it is a good feeling to be back on the water again.
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