janice142
Guru
- Joined
- Oct 12, 2011
- Messages
- 1,252
- Location
- USofA
- Vessel Name
- Seaweed
- Vessel Make
- Schucker mini-trawler
Thanks Janice for the feedback. As it relates to the amount of room some of this stuff requires, we found out that we have more storage space than needed, which filled up with stuff[weight] that we brought back home. But we were prepared for a wide variety of needs and that was just part of the intent for the trip. Our next extended trip will be down your way, where I am sure that you do not worry about the need for a radar. Thanks for checking in.
There are times when a radar would be a welcome addition. Thunderstorms and such. It is out of my budget and not Necessary. Nice-to-have only at this point. Now if I decide that I'd like to do the mini-loop or re-visit the northeast I'd be more motivated to find a radar.
Being able to stay offshore following the coast can be a real benefit to radar. And as an early warning of an approaching thunder-boomer would be real helpful. Anchoring, even for just an hour can change a scary storm into a respite and time to eat a meal while the weather is messy.
Free advice: Buy a radar reflector for your wooden boat. I took one of the old metal round ones and spray painted it with a black rubberized paint for a gift. Now the neighbor has an anchor ball. It serves a dual purpose -- radar reflector at night and anchor ball while at anchor. Of course he takes down the anchor ball when he is underway.
Back west of here I pulled off the waterway to anchor due to impeding bad weather. It was forecast on a NOAA Wx alert. I believe it was in West Bay. I saw a tug boat and barge nearby, before I anchored. He responded on Channel 16 to my hail and did indicate I showed up bright and clear. I seem mighty small in the world of boating, you know?
Your boat is a craftsman's delight. She is a beauty. I admire that. Enjoy.