Nerdiness Qoutient: 4/10 Originally, there was only one module positioned by the companionway, which was impractical since we had to leave the helm rushing forward to answer a call. Ever since we bought the boat, we have been trying to find a second control module for the VHF radio. The radio can handle up to four wired modules. The SIMRAD NRS-1 radio is no longer in production, so new modules are impossible to find, and we haven't found any on the second-hand market either. However, last winter we came across a good deal on a new B&G V-100 VHF radio that can connect both wired and wireless units, very practical. We now have three control units: one by the navigation station, one in the hard dodger, and one by the wheel. The cradle that the wireless units sit in charges them via induction, so there's no need to remember to charge them separately.

Nerdiness Quotient: 5/10 Until now, we've had to rely on closing the entrance with opaque wooden panels if the weather was such that the simple plastic sheet we use to shield against cold draughts wasn't sufficient to protect the entrance. Read about it here...

Nerdiness Quotient: 5/10 Installing an external generator is out of the question. Previous experience with solar panels has been good, so the desire was to be able to place as large panels as possible to get the best possible charge from the sun. A higher lifeline abaft of the midship was also high on the "need to be done" list. Read more here..

Nerdiness Quotient: 5/10 Going aloft several times during the season is mandatory, so having steps in the mast is very handy. Read more here...