What an incredible feeling. It was a bit rainy just before the launch then cleared up with a stiff breeze. All went perfectly. I couldn't have been prouder. I had crowds of people watching the launch and my son delivered a clever speech toasting the 4 winds and a drop of bubbly for Neptune.
All up she took about 20 months to build. I went with the colors I like best as per PS1. The name and decal I think work well.
Here she is on the trailer ready for launching. I decided not to build the boom gallows but opted rather to build a nice stainless pillar with a sling that will detach. For now I made a temporary support of crossed wood which works well.
Here my son Michael sets off with some friends aboard. She looks great!
Another view, everything working perfectly.
My eldest son gave me the hat. I wore it proudly.
In full flight. What a sight. We had 5 on board for this and we were moving at quite a pace. I know, the jib should have been furled, but we thought we would give it all. Well it was good while it lasted!
Shortly after this photo was taken the tabernacle timber split on the side, not the joints but the actual timber. Well, we did push it to the limit and no better time to find a problem, while I had experienced sailors on board to help. We dropped the sails and got towed back. I can't say I was disappointed. I'll just build a much stronger one out of glassed ply.
I named her Precious little, which is nice I think and as a friend said, it is about all that is left in my wallet after the build was done.
I can't be more appreciative of the CLC guys, most helpful and the plans were a treat. I have totally enjoyed the build....apart from the SANDING!