It's getting real!

[Paul-Hiroona]

Hello all. Just joined this forum!
I am not very experienced - have been sailing seriously for 2 years now.
My boat is an Endurance 37 - built in Knysna Yard, South Africa 1980. GRP with a Perkins 4108. Hiroona is her name. She was an 'escape boat' for a family leaving SA who settled in the UK. The boat changed hands twice before I became her owner. She wasn't really sailed much since her first voyage, but certainly will be going places now!
I have spent the last year revitalising her. New rigging, new paint job, new sails, interior rework. Still plenty to do, replace autohelm, install radar, new batteries and inverter/charging system, solar and wind, hydro-vane. Hopefully should be complete by summer.
I am a member of Lowestoft Cruising Club, a collection of 100+ members, with around 60 sailing vessels and skippers. Great bunch with plenty of experience, which is very helpful.
Wanted to join this forum to get some first hand information from sailors from around the globe. Have lot's of questions!
Looking forward to joining in discussions and learning from those that are doing it!

[Auzzee]

Welcome Paul. It's always good to get a new boat, especially when there is a bit of history attached. I don't know a lot about the Endurance 37, but it is fitted with an absolute classic engine. I had a 4108 in a boat I built in the early 80s. They are reliable, strong, a little noisy and easy to work on.

Parts and accessories for those motors were available everywhere...in every country. I used to joke that if I needed a new water pump, I could go to the local butchers shop and pick one up.

Renovating a good boat is always fun and sometimes challenging but is ultimately extremely satisfying. If there is anything we can do to help by way of advice, please ask.

Enjoy your boat and keep us posted.

[Paul-Hiroona]

Thanks Auzzee. The previous owner lives in Brisbane.
Are you currently cruising, or has Covid stopped that?
Yes, engine is good, a bit noisy as you say, but set mid-ships with very thick floor, so not too bad. Will probably put some good noise insulation under the floor to help.
Parts seem readily available. I will collect some spares and carry them onboard when I get going to far off places.
Will post some pictures soon!