Sailing Uma · video

What this video covers

The crew of the 38-ft sailboat Uma is undertaking a major structural refit to stiffen the hull, which involves installing eight new fiberglass ribs and two primary bulkheads.5:39 To ensure structural integrity and prevent squeaking, the team is hand-laying two layers of glass on the hull and three layers on the ribs and bulkheads, opting against vacuum infusion to avoid potential hull deformation.5:39 The project includes relocating the galley bulkhead to the forward edge of the cockpit basin to provide a solid mounting point for the traveler, improve scupper drain support, and create a watertight compartment to isolate the rudder post and Oceanvolt drive system.8:49 The crew used a laser level to align the new internal structure with their digital iPad model, maintaining a tolerance of three to four millimeters.2:30 Professional contractors are performing the intensive grinding and lamination work to prepare the hull for the new internal framework.13:42 Proper structural reinforcement requires balancing stiffness with the natural flex required for fiberglass sailboats.7:00

More from Sailing Uma

We Ditched Our Steering Wheel (And Built Something Better) | Step 496Sept 2026We're Finally Setting Sail Again!Sept 20264 Hours to Rig Solar for an 8-Month Solo CircumnavigationSept 2026Solar Sponsor Backed Out Before Sailing Around the World !Sept 2026

From Sailing Uma — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.