We just had the first major components of the project completed. The standing rigging was all replaced and the rigging tuned. Additionally, the rigger replaced my running rigging (with a few exceptions that I can do myself) and installed a new tricolor LED light at the top of the mast.
The rigger has really been fantastic for everything on the boat. He's Julian Crisp, and his company is called Sparman USA. He's out of Gainesville, FL, and he travels up here to Jacksonville. I HIGHLY recommend his outstanding service!
I'm not sure if everyone understands why the tricolor LED is so important - but when you're out at sea, visibility is paramount. My normal running lights are only about 3-4 feet from water level, so they're actually relatively low. The truth is, in a deep darkness, I'm not sure that I would trust them, especially when Zephyr is in a trough. But, my masthead is 45 feet up - that's a huge advantage. Additionally, wave troughs (unless I'm in a hurricane) won't be an issue. LEDs are also brighter and easier to see.
The rigger has really been fantastic for everything on the boat. He's Julian Crisp, and his company is called Sparman USA. He's out of Gainesville, FL, and he travels up here to Jacksonville. I HIGHLY recommend his outstanding service!
I'm not sure if everyone understands why the tricolor LED is so important - but when you're out at sea, visibility is paramount. My normal running lights are only about 3-4 feet from water level, so they're actually relatively low. The truth is, in a deep darkness, I'm not sure that I would trust them, especially when Zephyr is in a trough. But, my masthead is 45 feet up - that's a huge advantage. Additionally, wave troughs (unless I'm in a hurricane) won't be an issue. LEDs are also brighter and easier to see.