Crew refresher training started earlier than usual this year – necessitated by School on the River bookings and a very early first client trip on 29th March! This year’s training was a ‘back to basics’, reinforcing knowledge and experience of evacuation, fire extinguishers and safety equipment. We mustn’t forget our knot know how too!
How lucky we are to have enjoyed such a warm and glorious spring – the opportunity was not missed to call upon our volunteers to help with the never-ending task of painting. Thanks to the team that turned out Venturer is looking shipshape again. We have a few more tasks to complete including the installation of a new all-singing and -dancing VHF radio which will give us hands-free communication with the bow crew from the wheelhouse.
The new intake of volunteers have also been put through their paces on our new crew training day – we wish them well as we look forward to another season of making memories for crew and clients alike.
Dates have been set for our 2015 photographic evening cruises hosted by John Frye (www.johnfrye.co.uk). All are welcome. If you are interested in joining us for sunset on the river with professional guidance in picture-taking and delicious refreshments, follow this link.
The final few days of dry dock are always like a rush to the finish line but I’m pleased to say we made it and Venturer returned to her home mooring on Monday under grey skies and a bitter breeze.
With the priorities of inspecting /painting the hull, and replacement of the rudder skeg bearing complete, we shall spend the Winter completing maintenance and improvements that can be done afloat, all the while waiting for Spring or a period of warm settled weather when we can paint the decks and superstructure.
I would like to thank all the volunteers who came to the dock and braved the cold, the dirt , and the skipper to get all the work done – great job !!
River Thames Boat Project 