A window of good weather—or not?

A week after our arrival, the first possible weather window is opening up. The plan: sail northeast along the coast and then make the crossing to Formentera.

But on closer inspection, it becomes clear that while the southwest wind would be suitable, the simultaneous northeast swell would be unpleasant. So we decide against setting sail. We’d rather wait for better conditions and make new plans to sail directly to Formentera as soon as the right opportunity arises.

A small project is growing

So let’s get on with an old item on the to-do list: the keel bolt screws in the bilge need a fresh coat of paint. It’s actually a simple job—just scrub, paint, and you’re done.

Actually.

The hidden screw under the drip tray at the base of the mast gives us pause. A photo taken with our cell phone reveals cracked filler. We remove the stuck-on tray and discover a small repair job.

A previous owner had generously sealed the screw head with filler, presumably to protect it from moisture. However, rust had formed underneath. When the filler was removed, the connection point for the ground wire came loose as well.

So, change of plans: Clean everything, repaint it, and call the mechanic. Juan-Pedro arrives, cuts a new thread into the screw head, and the grounding cable’s eyelet is secured again—problem solved.

Once again, the old adage rings true: nothing happens quickly on a boat.