Launching a year late
I keep my boat in Greece and it looks almost certain that it won’t get launched this summer. She is laden with water, a tankful of diesel, 2-stroke fuel etc. What are the likely consequences of launching a year late? Legalities, local tax implications, mooring fees, insurance? Any help would be much appreciated Helen Adams, Cumbria
RUPERT HOLMES COMMENTS:
I also have a boat in Greece, although I was fortunate enough to get out there for some sailing at the end of February this year. You’re unlikely to find much different to usual on your return, providing your boat was laid up carefully at the end of last season.
The diesel should be fine and with the tank being full it won’t gain any water from condensation. On the other hand the 2-stroke petrol mix is probably best replaced. The same applies to the water tanks – I’d empty them, flush with fresh water, replace any filters and add purifying tablets.
Canvaswork will be exposed to more sunlight. While this should be no more than a usual summer, you may not be around to attend to small areas of damage. For this reason I usually strip all the canvas off, including the mainsail, when leaving the boat.
Water leaks into the accommodation through hatches and deck fittings can become more apparent over time. Ideally a boat should be set up with good ventilation to keep the interior fresh and dry, but in many locations this has to be weighed against the risk of giving access to rodents.
In any case, given Greece’s dry summers leak problems shouldn’t be a huge concern for the time being.
However, even if you’re not able to sail this summer, a few days spent in the autumn checking all is well certainly wouldn’t harm. Given severe frosts are not unknown in Greece, this would also allow you to drain the water tanks.