I just got back from several days on the Walton Backwaters, and had a really lovely time. Our boats are almost custom-made for this type of environment and it was lovely being able to creek-crawl under sail. Some things did break, and I will get back to that later.

Titichmarsh Marina is a delight. The people are wonderful and the facilities are as good as any I have seen. Additionally, there are lovely villages to explore and nice walks along the water's edge. The rusty seals are an added bonus, in my book. The slipway is very easy to get into, but not very steep, so you might get the back of your tow vehicle wet. A minor niggle, though, as you can tie up right there to get yourself sorted after launching. Parking is great and the security for your trailer is the best I've seen as you leave it behind a monitored gate. There is a nice chandlery/shop as well as other services, but no petrol on offer.

The sailing is great so long as you have winds at or under a Force 4. I went out one day when it was 4, gusting 5 and had real trouble makeing way unless I was right with the current. It also makes it a bit nervous when exploring creeks under sail. I am not yet experienced enough to feel good in that kind of wind. The wildlife and scenery is just marvelous, however.

The following observations were made after the fact....

You need a good anchor. I had a very lightweight Danforth that is good for a lunch pick, but did not hold when I needed to sit out a squall-this is not a good feeling at all, especially when alone. Luckily, the shop had a used, and very much heavier Danforth to be had for just a RLI donation--a bargain. It does not fit in the locker, but works nicely on my roller. I just have to work out how to secure it. A side note, my shackle holding anchor to chain had not been opened for some time, and twisted off. Luckily, I had a hacksaw with me, but I will be checking the new one from time to time. I decided to use a zip tie instead of seizing wire because it would be quicker to break free should the need arise.

If you feel it's time to replace your rudder fixing lines, you are probably right. My starboard line broke and will need to be replaced. I will have to fish something through as (of course) it snapped right at the attachment point on the rudder itself.

Mike, your loss is my gain...I really enjoyed the bimini cover.....cheers!!!

Have a spare block. My block on the centerboard raising line snapped at a very inopportune time, in very shallow water under gusty conditions. I got it up, headed for deeper water (I was less than a meter), and remembered that the previous owner had at least one spare in the box. I dug it out and was delighted to see it was one of those that has a pelican snap and opens on the roller side as well. Not ideal for a long term fix but perfect for emergency use. I will replace it with a non-opening block and put this one back into the spares for the next emergency. On an extra note, my line runs much smoother now. I did not know what it was supposed to feel like, and probably should have replaced the block long ago.

That's it for now. I would highly reccomend this playground for other Mac sailors. For those with more experience here, please don't laugh at my descriptions, and feel free to add your own.

Now, to the advice....

What type and size of line do you use on your rudders? I am going to just replace everything.

The peg that allows one to unhitch and secure the motor off the steering rod snapped off in transit. If you have repaired yours, can you please advise?

I cracked my helm seat. Those with strong Fibreglass repair skills, would you please offer your sage advice. At least, my first repair will be on something I can take off the boat and do in the shed.

Thanks in advance for any help! I cannot wait to return to this area.