12 Days of Shipshape Essentials
It’s not all about the big flashy shiny things. To operate we need lots of essentials to keep the boats running particularly over winter. This year’s Christmas campaign is the 12 Days of Shipshape Essentials.
You can support us by buying us items from our Amazon Wish List here or donate at justgiving.com/cirdansailing/donate
Day 1 - Gloves
Work gloves, washing up gloves, gloves to keep the cold at bay, medical gloves…. We use a lot of gloves!
Day 2 - Shackles
You can never have too many shackles on board! These U-shaped metal items are used to connect different rigging components, such as chains, ropes, and anchors.
Day 3 - Fuel filters
It’s important that we always have at least 10 fuel and oil filters in stock!
Day 4 - Toilet spares
Every bosun’s favourite job is making sure that all of the heads are in excellent working order.
Day 5 - First aid kits
First aid kits! It is essential for us to carry the correct category of first aid kits onboard our vessels.
Day 6 - Lubricants
We need to ensure we have a good stock of grease and oil to keep our engines running smoothly. Also good for getting our volunteers out of tight spaces!
Day 7 - Jubilee clips
So many uses! Cheap but essential items for the smooth running of our boats.
Day 8 - Charts
Although as with many aspects of life technology is rapidly changing navigation we still routinely teach traditional paper based navigation techniques on board. This gives an understanding of what the electronics are doing but also provides a practical application of maths and geography.
Day 9 - Mugs
Boat life just isn’t the same without a cup of tea or coffee and the occasional hot chocolate.
Day 10 - Oil
We use oil in a number of different places across our boats but one of the main areas are the boat’s engines and generators. These all get a full service annually.
Day 11 - Dry bags
We make extensive use of dry bags on our boats to make sure all the other essential items stay moisture free.
Day 12 - Bunk mattresses
We have 47 mattresses across our boats and so we have a rolling replacement schedule in place to try and make sure everyone gets the best night sleep possible!