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Preparing for the Global Voyage: Upcoming Equipment and Works

The adventure of sailing around the world is coming closer and the final preparations are underway. Before heading out on the open seas this summer, we take a look at the exciting plans and necessary equipment that still need to be put in place. From technical upgrades to essential work on board, here are the final milestones that await us as we prepare for this long-planned voyage. Join me for these final milestones and immerse yourself in the anticipation of the great sailing adventure.

Rig

Equipment:

  • Main mast, including fittings
  • Mizzen mast, including fittings
  • bowsprit, including fittings
  • Main boom, including fittings
  • Mizzen boom, including fittings
  • Standing rigging:
    Main mast: 3 fore stays, bowsprit stay, connecting stay, 2 back stays (incl. insulated stay length for MF/HF antenna), 6 shrouds;
    Mizzen mast: 8 shrouds
  • Running rigging (three-string spleitex):
    Main mast: 5 halyards (incl. working halyard), boomirk
    Mizzen mast: 2 halyards (incl. working halyard), boomirk, extended connecting stay
  • Wind generator
  • X-band radar
  • 2 deck spotlights
  • Anchor light, tricolor lantern, side lights and top light
  • VHF antenna
  • Mast steps
  • 3 manual winches on the main mast
  • Various cleat, blocks and shackles
  • Sails (Tuchwerkstatt Greifswald, 2024):
    light wind jib, 25m², Fastnet cloth, 308g
    working jib, 18m², Hydranet cloth, 380g
    high wind jib, 14m², Hydranet cloth, 350g
    storm jib (small stay), 9m², Fastnet cloth, 390g
    Mainsail (two reefs), 17.50m², Hydranet cloth, 380g
    Mizzen sail, 6.6m², Hydranet cloth, 380g
  • Sheets (three-string spleitex)
  • Sheet winches in the cockpit (2x self-hauling Andersen two-gear winches, 2x small one-gear winches)
  • 2 spinak booms

Upcoming work:

  • Building and preserving the main mast
  • Building and preserving the mizzen mast
  • Building and preserving the main boom
  • Making shrouds
  • Replace lamp box
  • Design and install wind generator fitting
  • Design and install radar fitting
  • Lay cables in the mast
  • Rig mast

Engine

Equipment:

  • Perkins 4.108M, four-cylinder 50hp with dual-circuit cooling and Hürth gearbox
  • Starter battery, lead acid 70Ah
  • Oil temperature, pressure, cooling water temperature and rpm indicators
  • Alternator and B2B charger

    Spare parts:
  • 10 diesel oil and 10 oil filters
  • Impeller
  • starter motor
  • Fuel pump
  • Cooling water pump
  • Complete gasket set
  • Fuel lines
  • Fuel injectors

Upcoming works:

  • Mill engine block and cylinder head flat
  • Pressure testing the cylinder head
  • Fitting the cylinder head
  • Replacing various gaskets
  • Overhauling the fuel lines
  • Changing the alternator
  • Changing the filters
  • Adjusting injection nozzles
  • Painting the engine
  • Overhauling the starter motor

Navigation

Equipment:

  • Various magnet compasses
  • Sextant, Almanac and Selected Stars
  • MFD Raymarine Axiom 7
  • Quantum radar
  • AIS Transponder
  • Passive radar reflector
  • VHF with DSC and secondary telephone, Raymarine
  • VHF without DSC, SAILOR
  • MF/HF receiver, SAILOR
  • NAVTEX receiver
  • Impellerlog
  • Echosounder with alarm function
  • Adaptive pilot, Raymarine
  • Wind steering vane, Aries
  • Binocular, Steiner
  • Ipad as remote display of MFD and for route planning
  • Electronic charts, Navionics
  • Paper charts, var. planning charts, Admiralty
  • stationary equipment
  • calculator

upcoming works:

  • Install NAVTEX antenna
  • Update VHF, connect secondary VHF
  • Repair log
  • Install radar

Safety

Equipment:

  • Life raft
  • EPIRB
  • Handheld VHF
  • pyrotechnical rescue appliances
  • medical equipment
  • Rainwater collecting device
  • fishing tackle
  • day light signalling mirror
  • Bilge pump (manual/electrical)
  • Sea anchor
  • Satellite communication device, incl. various GNSS
  • CO2-fire extinguisher
  • ABC powder fire extinguisher
  • ABF foam fire extinguisher
  • Carbonmonoxid warning device
  • Gas warning device
  • Smoke detector
  • life west
  • safety harness
  • Catch and Lift rescue system

upcoming works:

  • Buy equipment, check batteries, programm radio technical rescue appliances
  • Buy spare parts

Living on board

Equipment:

  • Library
  • Upholstery
  • Gas cooker, oven and stove
  • Fridge
  • sound system

Upcoming works:

  • Buy a new gas cooker
  • Renew upholstery

Electric

Equipment:

  • 7,2kWh LiFePo4 consumer battery with BMS
  • Starter battery
  • B2B charger
  • Mastervolt 60A charger
  • Wind generator incl. charge controller
  • 2 PV systems incl. 2 charge controllers
  • Inverter 2000W
  • Systems: 5V, 12V, 230V
  • Tinned cable, 2,5mm^2, high amperage cable: 50mm^2

Upcoming works:

  • Install wind generator
  • Renew mast cables

Outlook

Full of energy, I can hardly wait to explore the world’s oceans. But before we set sail, there are still a few important stages to complete. You can be part of this journey, whether by actively supporting us in the shipyard or from home. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to fulfilling this dream. If you would also like to be part of this adventure, I warmly invite you to get involved. Together we will set sail for a sustainable and unforgettable journey!

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Shipyard time: Renewing for new horizons

The planned pre christmas sailing trip in December was unfortunately not possible due to ice. Instead we used the time to measure the masts and shrouds. The rig is already 40 years old and it is time to renew. Now the material is ordered and the next winter the new rig can be built up.

When the warmth of the sun opens first ways through the ice a test sail was possible. The perkins started well and is ready to support in a new year of sailing. Nevertheless there is still smoke coming from the cylinder head. Due to a stable temperature and low loss of cooling water this should not a problem to be concerned about in the next time. In the long term I must inspect it further and maintain the engine again.

Therefore and also for regular works I planned to take Sindbad to the shipyard in Rødbyhavn. The last time ashore and the big refit was already three years ago. Next to some further improvement such as installing the new NAVTEX receiver and improve the isolation and sound system in the salon, engine and heater must be maintained. Moreover the cockpit is planned to be finished and of course there will be a fresh paint for all over the boat.

In March the time has come and I could finally bring Sindbad to Rødby. Enjoying the athmosphere of the Trave river while calm winds I sailed the way to Travemünde despite the slow speed of about one knot. After arriving René joined and we spent the night in good company alongside to the Safier.

The next day a gentle southwesterly breeze made it possible to reach the port of Rødbyhavn at night. Supported by the guard vessels we found our way in the busy working area of the Fehmarnbelt until we finally arrived and made it to go alongside under sails. The morning after arrical the crane was ready and Sindbad was heaved ashore safely. Fortunately the hull looked still very clear and I was really happy. It felt good to be back in the company of the Bådeværft although I am really looking forward to waterborn Sindbad again to head for new horizons.

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Embracing Serenity: A Voyage to Visby and Beyond

Ahoy! Join us as we navigate the serene waters on our remarkable sailing expedition, where we set our sights on the captivating port of Visby and ventured further to the enchanting island of Fåno. From the tranquil days of calm winds to the exhilarating challenges we faced, let us recount the highlights of our unforgettable journey.

As we embarked on our voyage towards Visby, the days unfolded with gentle breezes and tranquil seas. The calm weather, which had graced our presence for days prior, enveloped us in a peaceful embrace. With every passing moment, we found ourselves drawn deeper into a state of tranquility, reveling in the unhurried pace of our maritime odyssey.

With Visby merely 14 nautical miles away, anticipation filled the air. Though the wind had ceased its whispers, we remained undeterred in our determination to reach our destination. Harnessing the power of patience and resourcefulness, we devised a plan to propel Sindbad forward. In an extraordinary display of strength and teamwork, we swam alongside our 10-ton vessel, pulling with unwavering resolve. Though progress was arduous, we reveled in the sheer determination that fueled our efforts.

Amidst the vast expanse of the sea, our spirits were buoyed by a fortuitous encounter. A compassionate Danish sailor, touched by our tenacity, graciously lent a helping hand. Guided by their expert navigation, we triumphantly sailed into the welcoming embrace of Visby’s bustling harbor. Overwhelmed with gratitude, we expressed our appreciation by treating our newfound friends to a feast of homemade pancakes, symbolizing the bonds formed through shared adventures.

Visby greeted us with open arms, immersing us in its vibrant culture and warm hospitality. Amidst our explorations, we found solace in a well-deserved shoreleave. Mounting our trusty bicycles, we embarked on an exhilarating journey along the rugged mountain coast, basking in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature’s spectacle. Each pedal stroke revealed breathtaking vistas and reminded us of the limitless wonders that await those who dare to venture beyond the familiar.

Our voyage continued as we charted a course towards the captivating island of Fåno, nestled north of Gotland. Anchoring in a secluded bay, we savored the tranquility and embraced the serenity that enveloped us. A refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters and a shared watermelon feast on the shore further elevated our spirits, cementing the lasting memories we created along this remarkable journey.

Our time in Visby and the enchanting island of Fåno epitomized the essence of our seafaring adventures. From the blissful serenity of calm winds to the camaraderie forged through shared endeavors, every moment served as a testament to the profound beauty of the maritime world. As we eagerly anticipate the next chapter of our voyage, we stand ready to embrace the unknown, united in our pursuit of new horizons and everlasting memories.

Fair winds and boundless horizons!

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One full week of sailing and reaching Gotland without engine

Entering Sweden

Faster than estimated we reach the border between Sweden and Germany. It feels good to set up the guestcountry flag and we are looking forward to enter the Swedish coast and meet its typical Northern inhabitants. As a tradition which already started in Denmark we celebrate setting up the guest flag by listening to the national anthem and thinking about the country we are heading to and its culture.

Du gamle, du fria

Nightwatches

After two days of good wind and many nautical miles behind us, the wind is slowing down like every evening before. We start the night watches as usual. In our crew that means: about 1830 – 2230 Janos, 2230 – 0230 Leo, 0230 – 0530 Janos, 0530 – 0830 Leo. In the first watch a Cumulonimbus comes in sight. Those clouds are the mightiest clouds that are known in the world. They contain more than 100 million tons of water and are respectfully avoided by ships and planes. Turning winds much higher than 12 Beaufort can be found in and below that cloud. Next to that they can be the cause for a temperature drop of up to 20°C in a few moments. Especially dangerous are upwards winds which can be developed by the Cumulonimbus. Sometimes they are up to 20 kilometers high and look really frightening. In reasons of seamanship we reduce sails and keep sharp lookout for the cloud. After two hours it passes us many miles ahead and we can set up to full sail again and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Watchkeeping consumes energy. Therefore it is pretty important to have enough snacks outside.

Tradewindsailing

In the night the wind is giving way for a typical sunny windless day. We have about one Beaufort from the aft and we try the trade wind sails for the first time. This configuration works very well, we wish to not have forgotten the spinnaker-boom but even without we can sail up to 60 degrees to the wind direction at almost wind speed.

Anchoring in front of Øland

Thanks to the engine that doesn’t want to start we anchor in front of a small harbour on Øland. There is no wind at all and the sea is flat.
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Wonderful sailing as the start of the first trip

Where it all started

After a long time of hard work we are finally on the way to start our journey. Sindbad was launched a week ago and is now fully prepared to sail us up to the North.
Planen er klar and the beautiful loneliness of the Northern nature seems calling us this summer. We do not hesitate – not even a moment – to follow the call.
Poorly we couldn’t take Simon, our third hand and brain with us. The trip was planned already a long time ago and we three have been in from the beginning. So it is really sad that we have to start the journey without him.

Last rigg check
Planen er klar (Folketidene 13th June 2020)

First time sailing

Finally the time has come and we are moving forward under sails. After departure and farewell wishes by the local neighbour at 1400 LT our heading is now set by the wind and so we are running to Gedser on the North of the Kadetrinne. Like expected she sails well at five Beaufort and we are sailing with five to six knots.

Heading North-East

First evening at sea

In the evening we prepare Sindbad for the night. After it’s all shipshape we can lean back and enjoy the wonderful sunset. We feel ready for a first night of sailing between Germany, Denmark and Sweden.

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Wood is a wonderful material but grinding and painting never ends…

Two masts, two booms, a wooden cockpit, sliding hatch, the bowsprit and much more is made of wood and oiled in wood look. It looks beautiful but requires a lot of work. This time we want to make a full refit, so everything needs to be grinded and painted later. All the wooden parts are oiled with two layers of Sikkens with pigments and four layers of Osmo UV-protection oil, the masts get two additional layers of Osmo, because they can not be re-oiled that easy. The use of oil for onboard wood has the big advantage that it is more stretchable. Therefore it has less problems with the never stopping movement of the boat.
The grinding is hard work and the painting afterwards requires a lot of patience. In contrast the satisfaction is even bigger after achieving a good result. The cockpit needs to be completely overhauled. René is working on it but it is going to take much more time. It will be made of mahogany wood again and I am excited for the result.

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One year in the shipyard and still much work to do

She is more than one year ashore now. I am 16 years old now and do have my license to sail pleasure crafts as Sindbad. So it would be my dream now to not only borrow boats from friends for weekends. I want to have my own boat to sail anytime and everywhere the wind takes me. Therefore I decide to help René and we will try to get the boat fit together from now on.
The actual condition still looks frightening if we consider it has been one year in the shipyard now. There are things that happened and we do not have to worry about, just as the hull condition and the engine. The diesel is a Perkins 4.108 and it has been overhauled by the engineer of the shipyard. We only need to install it onboard again. Nevertheless the To-Do-List is still long and after finishing one step you find the next two to add to the list.
I am able to spend my christmas holidays to work on Sindbad. There are endless things to grind and paint, many things to repair and exchange. Especially the masts are subjected to a proper and precise work.
Rigged as a ketch Sindbad has two masts. The main mast measures about 13 meters and goes trough the deck to its mounting above the keel. The mizzen mast is much smaller and its sail serves primarily to stabilise the boat and keep it on course.
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A winterly trip to the shipyard in Rødbyhavn

Nov. 2018
Sindbad is going to Rødbyhavn! The engine is leacking oil and cockpit needs to be worked over. We decide to make a full refit. Thus it definitely makes sense to crane Sindbad ashore. In the traditional shipyard in Rødbyhavn in the South of Lolland, Denmark Sindbad has a place to stay on a trailer for a longer time.
My father, René, works at this shipyard and can work on Sindbad after work.
He also sails Sindbad from Travemünde to Rødby.
First of all Sindbad needs to pass the River Trave and two bridges to reach Travemünde. Unfortunately the engine does not start at the bridge appointment due to a blocked fuel line. We tow her out of the harbour by the Tender of Regina Maris and so it can start its trip to Rødby in winterly temperatures and wind conditions.
Sindbad waits in Lübeck for a dreamer and offers a lot of work to do
Sindbad, towed by the port-owned Tender
Leaving Travemünde course North to Rødby at night
After a restless trip and a close call with a freight ship in the Fehmarnbelt René reaches Denmark. A few days later Sindbad is craned and the works starts.