Cruising Season 9 - October & November 2019

INTREPID II in the water at last

Thanks to family and friends who have been asking for updates about INTREPID II and how much more time will we need to repair all the outstanding damages.  The Captain actually spent almost a month in extremely hot, humid June weather in the works yard, working with the rigging crew to install new rigging and fittings.  That was after a month of sourcing and purchasing the appropriate replacements with the assistance of a rigger working our of Portland, Oregon.

Our summer was one of concern and frustration at times as we wondered if our insurance claim would ever be settled and wishing we were provided with updates about its progress. We wonder if the insurance industry really considers the emotional wear and tear on cruisers dealing with a less than transparent process.  However, a settlement cheque came through after Kelly had arrived in San Carlos and that was one less issue on which to focus.

INTREPID II splashed last Monday, November 11 and so far so good as far as leaks and seepages.  Lots to do for outstanding maintenance in the head and cockpit drain and other items on The List which had to take a backseat to more critical repairs from the toppling.  Riggers have promised to be available for the tuning at the dock, and then sails can go on and further tuning under sail.

Cruisers and other land based folks are steadily arriving in San Carlos and Kelly has connected with a good number - all trying to get their vessels ready for the important goal of actually setting sail.

The Admiral will soon head south.   She is hopeful there will be new destinations and voyages to relate in the coming months.  Thanks for joining us.

Adios to San Carlos and Homeward Bound

INTREPID II  in works yard awaiting further repairs to rigging and hull

Our 'cruising season' is coming to a close as we spend these last few days preparing INTREPID II for the fierce Sonoran summer sun and rain and wind and all those elemental forces. 

These have not been satisfying weeks as we discuss options with our assigned insurance adjuster; while personable and in contact, we are feeling less than supported to return our sailboat to her 'pre-Sergio' condition.  What we thought were practical, viable suggestions to transport her to the San Diego area, or even closer to home, for a concentrated, intense number of weeks to totally repair the damages was not given much consideration.  We do not want to lose another cruising season!

So - we have taken deep breaths and made plans for the Captain to drive us home and then in a very short turn-around, return to San Carlos with as many replacement parts as we can somehow afford after this very expensive few months. [As we mentioned, so far all costs are out of pocket as our 'named storm' deductible is 10% of hull value.]  Our focus currently is to ensure we have the correct forms and information to satisfy the Mexican Customs ("Aduana") people on our way out of the country and on Kelly's return with replacements.  Cruisers are allowed to bring back items duty free if all has been processed as required.  We will soon find out if the directions we have received from others are still valid as to where to stop and what information is required.  We are hopeful our 'best laid plans' to work with local riggers will result in the mast being raised once all the needed testing and installation of fittings, chain plates and wire is successfully accomplished.

We usually travel further on our first day homeward, but decided we should allow for much time at the border for Mexican customs procedures and for U.S. border delays.  Hotels have been booked along the way and we are crossing our fingers that all will fall in to place to arrive home well before the Easter rush on highways and ferries.  There will be no time for family visits, sadly, nor for short excursions into National Parks, as is our usual journey northward.

Likely this blog will be updated on our return home.  Thanks for all your interest and support and encouragement.