Amost 11 years since launching and it wass time for a good touch up of Grace's exterior. After a lot of sanding and a bit of epoxy filler, 4x coats of International GOLDSPAR varnish and 2x primer/undercoat plus 2-3x top coats of Altex ISOTAL paint (depending on the area). The trailer (now 7 years old) also had some tickle ups - cosmetic only. Not a 'showroom' finish and she still sports some deep scars from her campaigns, but I'm happy enough. Now to get back on/in the water for summer proper!

0

0

0

49

0

0

0

0

622

Classic Norfolk Broads sailing boat hire and day boat hire. Yacht charter on the stunning rivers and lakes of the Norfolk broads. Bare boat sailing holidays fully equipped for your comfort and enjoyment. If you would like to learn more please visit our web site at Oliverssailingholidays.co.uk

0

0

0

369

0

0

0

0

696

The Windy 53 Balios, like her sister ship the 52 Xanthos, is unashamedly special - a premium quality high performance Motor Yacht. The combination of Hi-Tec vacuum infusion moulding with a no compromise design brief to produce a soft, seaworthy, efficient hull gives an exceptional top speed of just under 40 knots depending on engine choice and class leading fuel economy together with low noise levels sets new standards in todays demanding market. Also available with triple or twin IPS for ultimate acceleration and handling. The difference between the two motor yachts is that the Balios, with its slightly longer length offers a capacious dinghy garage designed to be large enough to accommodate a jet rib. On the top of the garage is a luxurious sunpad. The award winning helm position is a study in ergonomics. Firstly, unlike most boats in this size range, the view for the helmsman is perfect either when seated or, with the electric footrest operated, standing. With helm and mate's position next to each other, both will enjoy the exceptional comfort of the luxurious body hugging seats. The dashboard layout is clear, precise and impressive and the anti-glare finish - restful to the eye - greatly improves vision in strong sunlight. With space for all the latest electronics this area is truly exceptional: perfect for relaxed, long distance cruising. The Balios also comes with the option of curved stainless and glass doors to screen off the wheelhouse. As these can be opened so that only one third of the entrance is closed, the effect when the large electric sunroof is open is almost one of an open boat; fully close the doors and the wheelhouse becomes a luxurious saloon, light and airy. At night it becomes cosy and welcoming, everywhere Windy's obsessive quest for quality is evident. A wide stairway leads down from the upper saloon and the style and finesse of the woodwork is immediately apparent. To starboard there is a large galley that blends in perfectly with the rich quality feel of the high gloss timberwork and opposite is the saloon - this area exudes the aura of a serious, immaculately appointed motor yacht. The forward stateroom has it's own spacious shower/heads compartment and there are also two luxurious guest cabins one of which has own en-suite facilities. The aft cockpit leads to wide walkways forward with high guard and toe rails; for added security, substantial stainless grabrails abound. The anchor winch system is both neat and safe with the gypsy protected when the safety cover is in place. Access to the engine room is via a large, secure hatch - here you will see a true reflection of Windy's attention to detail, practicality and quality. Take a good look at this area, it's where their boatbuilding skills are self evident. Next time you see a 53 Balios in the water just study how perfect the lines are and how the boat sits in the water rather than just on top. To put it simply - like the Xanthos, the Balios is a premium motor yacht for those who demand and can understand true quality when they see it.

0

0

0

4,743

⛵️ For Those of Us North of 60… 😉 If your age starts with a number north of 60, I’ve got another side of me you might like. I host a second podcast — not about sailing, but about life, attitude, and aging with a little sass — alongside three of my college sorority sisters. It’s called @AfterCurfewPodcast. Different vibe. Same honesty. We enjoy laughing. Episode #4 is LIVE tonight 📅 Thurs, 11/6/25 🕕 6pm CT / 7pm ET 📍 youtube.com/@aftercurfewpodcast Come hang out — we’re talking life at 60+, friendship, and saying what everyone else is thinking. #SaltyAbandon #AfterCurfewPodcast #LifeAt60Plus #WomenOver60 #SororitySisters #RealTalk

0

0

0

66