Acorn To Arabellavideo

The Long To-Do List Before Sailing North - Episode 301 - Acorn to Arabella: Journey of a Wooden Boat

23 February 2024 · 33 min · 58K views · Cape Cod, Massachusetts

What this video covers

Preparation for a summer voyage to Newfoundland and Nova Scotia requires a series of technical upgrades and maintenance tasks on a custom wooden boat. High-priority electrical projects include installing a 120-amp externally regulated alternator and reconfiguring the Wakespeed regulator to manage battery charging, which currently relies solely on solar power.1:38 The crew must also repair a Spectra Ventura 200T watermaker by replacing a center block to restore onboard water production.11:05 Navigation and safety upgrades involve installing a radar, AIS, satellite weather, satellite compass, wind instruments, and permanent navigation lights.14:38 Deck work includes installing cheek blocks for reefing lines, adding hatch hold-downs for offshore safety, and completing the dodger.16:17 Interior projects focus on creature comforts and storage, specifically installing a hot water heater, adding doors to lockers to secure gear while underway, and finalizing shore power and wind generator connections.20:33 The crew balances these technical installations with annual engine maintenance and the logistical challenges of managing a remote marketing business from the boat.

Watch on YouTube

More from Acorn To Arabella

We Stripped Our Wooden Sailboat Back to Bare Wood... AgainOct 2026Saying Goodbye to Newfoundland—and the Man Who Inspired ArabellaSept 2026Upgrading the Rudder and Another Trek To The CliffAug 2026We're Climbing a Wall No One Has Ever Climbed Before | Rock Climbing on Newfoundland's South CoastJul 2026

From Acorn To Arabella — 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.

Report an issue