I am just back from spending a few relaxing days on the boat mixed in a with a little bit of work. However my time aboard would have been even more relaxing were it not for half of the sail boats in the marina having loose halyards flapping against the mast. The constant ping, ping, ping drives me crazy and keeps me awake at night. The last few days we have had strong north east winds up here in New England which has made for some very enjoyable sailing but when I get back after wards I like to sit in the cabin read a book and have a glass of scotch. I also like it quiet but the sound of those ropes drives me insane. I did a little math while lying awake at night too. The frequency of the rope hitting the mast happens about 70 times a minute, irrespective of the height of the mast. That equates to 4200 hits per hour and 100800 pings in a 24 hour period. Not only does this drive anyone nuts but just think of the wear to the mast and the ropes. Multiply this by the other 20 boats in the marina making a similar noise and you can understand why I might be a little grouchy in the morning. Please tie the halyards away from the mast when you leave your boat, your neighbors will thank you and so will your boat.
Totally agree! Years ago (actually prior to 1988 when I left Hawaii on this cruise) the liveaboards at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor had a scheme. They would board the offending boat and tie off the halyard and leave a note "We tied off your *&$%% halyard this time. Next time you will find it laying on the deck". Took some time but things improved.
Terry
Posted by: yachtvalhalla | February 18, 2012 at 08:48 PM