Removing the mainsail for inspection

I do like to document my sailing activities, in video logs. Occasionally I do so also with maintenance activites. In this case I removed the mainsail, to give it an inspection.

Inside View from Arpex

My video blog uploads on Youtube seem to have gained some attention. Perhaps due to some linking? I don't know. But among the viewers seem to be some more curious persons, who have asked me to present the boat, specially the interior, the cabin. Of which there is not much, but,... nevertheless, it does have its charms and is worth a presentation. 

This is only a very preliminary take. As I try to learn how to actually make a presentation on video. Usually, my videos are made for my own use. They try to summarize a day's sail, so that I can later come back to it, to remember. And perhaps to learn. 

While viewing this video, I came to think that a relevant factor for comfort on Arpex, is the central steering and sailing position. Due to its peculiar laterlly oriented configuration, the crew is located where it has the most comfortable ride, in the buoyancy center of the boat. 

This is the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

Everything you need, nothing you don't.

Rachel Reis, Zamba, Cuper - Saudade

Deck tent

From the beginning of its conception, Arpex was menat to have a deck tent, to increase the sheltered living area. For a long time I have pondered how to produce it, customized, of course, out of UV resistant textile, to provide good sun protection. But all the pondering and thinking has only resulted in not having a deck tent for the past 8 years. 
 

Now I took a different approach. I went to a regular camping provider and bought a standard hexagonal camping shelter, and made it to fit. And I thought that the quick and cheap solution actually came out working ver well. I am very happy with how it looks, and works. For the small amount that I paid for it, it is well worth it (370 reais = 75 usd). It provides excellent shelter, with its double skin, where the outer layer is aluminum treated, and the inner, with a white ceiling. It can be installed just so that the deck is fully usable without any restrictions, and nicely open to the water, to provide good bathing opportunty. 

I have also bought a camping table, which can be used inside the cabin, as well as outside. With two foldable beach seats this greatly extends the liveability and comfort.