Category: Sailing

Maiden Voyage, 13/4/21: Titchmarsh Marina to Wrabness

And so the day dawned, after a cold night aboard; time to make our maiden voyage on Goshawk of Møn. The day began with a warm shower in Titchmarsh Marina’s newly refurbished shower block, followed by breakfast aboard. It was at this point that I realised that I had failed to buy bowls in my …

First night aboard Goshawk

Frantic phone calls were made last week: I had arranged for Goshawk to be anti-fouled, the engine to be reconditioned, sacrificial anode replaced, and for a gas safety check to be undertaken. All phone calls confirmed that, oh yes, of course all the work had been completed. Perhaps I need to be more trusting and …

Why a Westerly Centaur?

Why did I decide to buy a Westerly Centaur? Clearly months of research went into such a significant decision, didn’t it? I’d like to say yes, of course, but actually that couldn’t be much further from the truth! I’ve wanted a yacht for many years; probably most of my life! I grew up on the …

Parental seal of approval

My parents visited the marina on my behalf today to pick up Goshawk’s keys and paperwork. Whilst they were there they hunted Goshawk down in the yard. They initially thought that they were mistaken because she is much bigger than they had anticipated.  I’m pleased to say that Goshawk received the all-important parental seal of …

Goshawk’s engine: my biggest concern

When reading up about Westerly Centaurs, it quickly became apparent that for many, the weak point in an otherwise outstanding boat is often the engine. That’s not to say that Centaurs’ engines are inferior; from from it. They’re just very old, and so liable to have issues. Replacement parts are also, apparently, difficult and expensive …

Insuring Goshawk (plus a warning…)

Over the last few days I’ve been trying to secure insurance for Goshawk. There was one obvious choice – Navigators and General. They have a close relationship with the Westerly Owners’ Association, of which I am a member, and offer various incentives to members of the association, including a ten per cent discount. They are …