Fly-bridge re-core

     The top fiberglass had delaminated from the core on the flybridge in a few spots so it was time to re-core.    I used a circular saw with a vacuum attachment to cut out the top layer of fiberglass.  Because it was delaminated it came off very easily.  I found foam core underneath, not the original balsa core.  The foam was dry but whoever re-cored it did not do a good enough job with the epoxy and it separated. 

     

     The foam core also came out very easily.  I used a scraper, then a oscillating tool, and finished up with a sander.  I also supported the floor with 2x4s in the salon below.

     I used balsa core that I got from Jamestown distributors in Rhode Island.  It was very easy to work with and very easy to cut and fit into the space.  

     I used West System epoxy and hardener.  I spread it out below the balsa core and after setting the core in place I weighed it down overnight with heavy water jugs.  I filled the edges with more thickened epoxy and then used three layers of fiberglass on top of the balsa.  I did  some fairing around the edges and low spots.

     After sanding I applied Kiwi Grip non skid.  I had used it before on the fly bridge and it performed very well.  I did two coats of Kiwi Grip.

     The new Kiwi Grip blended very nicely with the old Kiwi Grip and is a good look on the fly bridge.

Thunderstorm off of Boca Grande

August 15, 2020

      We were anchored off of Boca Grande in the GICW when some summer thundershowers rolled through.  We are very comfortable with our ground tackle.

 Tunnel of Love 

Cayo Costa State Park

Florida

      If you anchor in Pelican Bay at Cayo Costa State Park in Florida there is a great side trip you can enjoy.   The "Tunnel of Love" is at the south end of Cayo Costa.  It is a path through the mangroves that leads to an open bay of water just steps from the ocean side of the island.   It is not easy to get to so the beach is very isolated.   It is important that you go at high or near high tide because it is shallow.  We needed to tilt up our dinghy motor through most of the waterway.  It is also too narrow to row.  If you can't use your dinghy motor you would need to use your oars to paddle like a canoe.  Even getting to the entrance takes some careful navigation.  There were places where we needed to be very careful in the dinghy and go around some shallow areas.

 Punta Gorda Boat Club cruise to Tween Waters 

Captiva Island, Florida   February 7-9, 2020

     The Punta Gorda Boat Club cruised to Tween Waters resort on Captiva Island for a relaxing weekend,  https://tween-waters.com/

     Tween Waters is a great resort with two pools, two hot tubs, restaurants, and bars on site.  It is within easy walking distance to downtown Captive and several shops and restaurants.  They have a private beach across the road to watch sunsets.  

     The crew dined on Saturday night at the Green Flash.  https://www.greenflashcaptiva.com/

     The boat with the two gentlemen on their bow watching us dock is the OLOH   

https://myoloh.com/?  fbclid=IwAR1HkTKFX85kxwo6BIcezWoiGWQ6RevfVlAT2aHfMivVh2zU8OuIsgG6aHQ

     They have their own interesting website and blog.  I was impressed with their calm demeanor while I was docking our cheap boat so close to their very expensive boat.