The 50 @ 50 award from the Association of Jersey Charities has made a huge difference to our operational plans for the next few years. In fact, the work that we have been able to undertake with the funds donated has offered us security for quite a few years!
As expected, there were more issues with the two engines than first thought. Once the Spirit of Variety was out of the water, we were able to determine the extent of the works and, with the help of Ocean Works Marine, these were completed within budget. We were also able to replace the propellers, the originals having been installed when the vessel was manufactured in 2006.
We had previously been unable to install a new transducer (weather vane) at the top of the mast due to the height and location. However, with the hire of a “cherry picker” from Sonnic, we were able to reach the 20 metres to replace the instrument.
On board, the safety “hand” rail is being manufactured locally as I write and will be installed before the first trips start this season. We have been able to repair wear and tear to the fibreglass hull, update sail stitching and long-awaited repairs to the bimini cover, replace the dan buoy, purchase some new lifejackets, replace some of the corroded internal fixtures and fittings, update fire equipment and on-board PPE to name just a few!
Thanks to this very generous donation, we can continue through the lazy days of future spring and summers to offer children and young people the opportunity to discover the delights of sailing.
