RECONNECTING SAILOR
10 July 2026 · 24 min · 40K views · Plymouth
What this video covers
Barry Perrins returns to Plymouth after a circumnavigation and begins a six-month refit and reorganisation of his boat, Shaddy, while reconnecting with friends and family.0:46
Maintenance work includes removing a rotten chain locker hatch and the surrounding deck section, cleaning rust from brightwork, removing and repositioning a shortwave radio aerial mast, tightening the frame supporting the VHF and AIS stubby mast, and cleaning the Hydrovane rudder.2:06 Seized screws are freed using mole grips on a screwdriver for extra leverage.2:29 A gas system swap is underway after the New Zealand/Australia regulator no longer matches UK fittings; a new UK regulator and replacement hose and fittings are needed to complete the changeover.14:20
Below-decks, Perrins strips the stern compartment of sail bags, spare parts, and unused gear accumulated during the circumnavigation.16:20 Unused sails including a spinnaker are removed and stowed under Squeaky the dinghy's waterproof cover on deck.16:46 A hot water tank is earmarked for removal to make room for a fuel tank.17:52 Moisture and cold are identified as the main interior problems.16:59 He decides to stay in the water rather than haul out, partly because living aboard on the hard in winter is colder and more expensive.5:41
Carrying spare parts and scrap material paid off repeatedly offshore, but in a home port with chandleries accessible, the calculus reverses.16:20
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