Enterprise - 1935 Six Meter: March 2011

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Finally, in the water.

After nearly 20 years out of the water, Vinnia was re-launched in August of 2010, just in time for her 75th birthday. (sorry for the delay in updates.) The good news is that all the major repairs seemed to hold up well, with no leaks! I kept her in the water until mid-october, and viewed the short season as a two month shakedown cruise. With the help of my crew, I was able to assess the setup of the boat and make a good plan for some off season adjustments. These tweaks should make her perform better and a whole lot easier to sail.

We also managed to race her once in a DYC club race, and won! It was very satisfying after all the time I had to invest to get her back in the water.

Vinnia was re-christened "Enterprise" in an elaborate ceremony at the Detroit Yacht Club that was attended by family and friends. Looking forward to a great 2011.

She's coming back to life!

I've had many requests by interested folks to see photos of my new six-meter project, so I thought I would put them online for all to see. Thanks for checking it out!

Restoration is probably not the right word to use in describing what I am doing to the boat. While she does need a couple of major repairs, generally speaking the boat is in very good condition for a 75 year old vessel.

The good news is that as I've started digging into the repairs, I haven't found any horrible surprises - nothing that I didn't expect. I feel that I am up to the task of completing the required work and getting her in the water by the middle of May. (I can hear you laughing - knock it off)

I'm going to restore the underwater profile to the original configuration, with the rudder being attached to the aft edge of the keel, which will return her to "classic" status.

I do need to thank some people who have lent a great deal of help and support. First is my Dad, who is a top-notch assistant because he has a great deal of knowledge and skill (much more than me) in just about every area needed to complete this project.

I especially want to thank some of the guys from the Port Huron Fleet (Jim, Mark, and Phil.) They got me hooked on the six meter by taking me out for some racing on Ondine, then spent over 12 hours moving the boat from Richmond, MI to Troy, MI on a Saturday afternnoon. Their commitment to the six meter fleet is very apparent. Also, special thanks to Vinnia's previous owner Bud Kirk.

Also, Joel Kar (thanks for the traveler), Sean Murphy, and Rob Hasting. Most importantly my family, Heather and Jack, who have been very supportive and tolerant of my boat habits.

Keep checking back for updates.