We hauled Freedom in June for a survey, a bottom paint , replacement of two engine mounts, thru-hull replacement and some on-the-hard work. We were able to work inside the entire week. It was tough, but South Coast Ship Yard in Newport Beach did an outstanding job and we finished what we had hoped to accomplish. Just prior to our haul out, new solar panels were mounted above the tender.
The bimini framework custom made by Riley Marine in Long Beach is awesome. We customized the framework even more by adding LED lights - for reading and BBQ, even a red "leave a light on for you" over the helm! Now for the canvas! I will add bug screens and extras as we go south.
There was only one way up and down - WAY up. Scupp's new SOS from Critters Inflatables with a built-in harness and strobe was great to get her on and off. She was such a trooper!
Our survey revealed a broken turnbuckle on the dolphin striker - that repair was attended to in no time.
Another problem solved - An avid fan of the "Design on a Dime" programs on HGTV, I found a solution for sun blocking privacy screens for the large forward salon windows. I purchased these thermal pull down shades as well as the mini blinds for the salon's side windows from a home improvement store for a fraction of the price of a yacht supplier. With a little bit of engineering and a fully-charged cordless drill, valances and screens were added for a total cost of $80. I had a quote from a yacht window supplier for over $1600 for these two windows.
