Extreme Makeover: Boat Edition

Simon and I have moved into a boatyard. Polar Bear was placed high on stilts, so we get on and off her with the aid of a ladder (we're about twelve feet off the ground).

We've run an extension cord to an outdoor outlet for power, use the marina's public showers and toilets (we have no plumbing on board yet and the wiring is shot), and we sleep in sleeping bags. Blue water cruising is so sexy.

I began sanding, painting and varnishing while Simon moved forward with bilge cleaning and demolition. Naturally, a previous owner used glue to secure every single screw, so only about five percent of them can be driven out. As a result, Simon's been hacksawing like crazy. Saw dust is everywhere. It is a bit sad, as the wood was good but so much of it has to be wasted now.

But our vision for Polar Bear is unwavering. We started by ripping out the entire forepeak cabin and the godawful head. We've decided to put in a luxurious bathroom in the front of the boat, using the point of the bow as a place for a tub. The shower will be right under the hatch, so you can look up and see the sky.

And that is only the beginning. This is a process better captured in pictures. Here are some "before" pictures. We're looking forward to sharing the "afters"!

PS - If you are in the neighborhood, please come visit us but be prepared to sand and paint. Free beer!