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The seat backs are finished at last! I was determined to make the most of the space for storage behind them, as well as having a comfortable seating angle, so I had to go with my own design. The structure comprised two different-angled panels: one to support the seat back cushions, and a vertical panel above, behind which would be storage. I then templated, cut out and fit twelve dividers to split the lockers up. It came out alright!

I also fitted the under-berth lockers with latches, to keep everything in them from pouring out if the boat went over!

I’ll be moving onto the midships sections today; the hanging locker, port storage area, then subsequently the galley and chart table.

On reflection, personal and prompted by those around me, it seems I have been making steady progress over the last couple of weeks – and over the last few months since starting full time, despite it not feeling that way.

I feel burdened with the load of work still to do, worn down by long hours in cramped spaces and am acutely aware of the temperature gently but steadily dropping.

Having said that, the Forepeak now only requires the fitting of finger latches, a few more support cleats and the rounding of a few edges.

I’ve also cut out and shaped the quarter berth tops, have made a good start on the seat backs and hope to finish them both this coming week.

We press on…

Good progress has been made since I wrote last: I started by bonding in the bunk dividers and cutting out the rest of the V-berth structure and the chain locker lid. I spent the next 6 days cleating up the whole interior ready for the bunk tops, and as of last night I have the first one cut out!

Fitting the cleats took much longer than I anticipated but happily the process of spiling for and cutting out the tops has so far been quick and painless. Having the first bunk top on makes the interior feel one step closer to a cosy cabin!