Update: Franklin's takes a personal interest

The story continues to take interesting turns. Flew down to Picton at the top of the South Island on Tuesday to get a look at Rogue on the hard at Franklin's Boat Builders. We've identified the leak, in which the caulking job done a few decades ago used a brittle black substance that is not flexing with the wood, thus causing warping and peaking to occur along the seams of the hull. The biggest of these leaks is on the starboard side just behind the mast which ties into previous indications pressure on the mast that caused increased leakage. After seeing the seams with my own eyes, I am so glad we did not try to sail her when the engine died in French Pass, she would have possibly come apart.

Bruce Anskew, previously mentioned, faxed through three pages he wrote up including a detailed drawing (to be posted soon) of how the hull was constructed. He agreed with the caulking replacement approach and found an article which mentions during World War II Rogue's lead keel was removed to turn into bullets for the front and replaced with a disgusting lump of rod iron which will explain the reason for possible rust on the keel bolts. First fix is the caulking, then will look further into the bolts.

Ian Franklin, the owner of Franklin's, flew up from Christchurch to meet me in Picton and go over Rogue with a fine toothed comb. The admiration he expressed for Rogue was almost expected but as always wonderful to hear. Yesterday, he called to ask if he could put Rogue on the back of a semi and truck her to his main boatyard half way down the South Island in Christchurch. He said he wanted to ensure she was seen to properly where he could work on her and keep an eye on her at his larger yard.

At first a bit taken aback, it was only a few weeks ago we barely got her to Picton from Nelson in one piece, I've decided to agree as the situation of having the founder of a 35 year old boat building operation with personal and professional connections to Anskew taking a personal interest in ensuring the job is done right is more than fortuitous. I’ll speak with him on Monday and then confirm if Rogue’s bound for Christchurch.

For those who wonder if I'm yet tired of the worries associated with a 112 year old racing yacht, not on your life! The experiences had, friends made, things learned, and appreciation gained are priceless. Looking forward to what happens next.