Sam Holmes Sailing · video

What this video covers

While hauled out in a Malta boatyard, the owner of a 30-foot sailboat repairs a damaged rudder shaft and replaces a propeller that repeatedly struck the tiller.2:49 After a bearing puller and penetrating oil failed to remove the propeller, the boatyard machined the shaft and added a spacer to prevent future contact.24:03 The owner also installs new Contender CDX cruising laminate sails, opting for a loose-footed mainsail with full battens.4:12 To address recurring engine starting issues, the owner doubles the gauge of the wire running from the starter button to the solenoid to reduce voltage drop.21:19 Additional maintenance includes relocating a spinnaker pole pad eye, over-drilling and epoxy-filling deck holes for a new swim ladder, and mounting a wind instrument near the solar panels.16:26 The owner also completes an online BoatUS safety course to facilitate future customs clearance in Greece.23:40 The boat returns to the water after a week-long haul-out.22:15

More from Sam Holmes Sailing

Orca sighting! we repair one daggerboard only to break another oneSept 2026Sailing to Maratua, a rarely visited Indonesian island Sept 2026We hit a log sailing by strange Indonesian sea platformsAug 2026Replacing a window while sailing through pirate waters and wildlife of BorneoAug 2026

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