Hello there, it’s Ken Lavalette of Woodwind Yachts. This year, for our part in the 2021 virtual boat show, I have decided to show a 1964 – 25′ Folkboat sloop named ” Christy “, which has just been launched and is sailing in Lake Ontario after a multi-year restoration. Being built in England, she spent the first part of her life in salt water, then the more recent years sailing the fresh waters of Lake Ontario. After a thorough inspection, I found that most of her original galvanized fasteners were badly corroded. Many of her ribs were either broken or deteriorated, along with numerous bottom planks, floortimbres and the backbone. It was no wonder why she refused to float as there was little holding the bottom of ” Christy ” together “.

THE PROJECT:  Remove the entire interior for access to necessary bottom repairs. Remove the 2800 lb. cast iron ballast keel and take out for sand-blasting and rust protection. Remove and replace the lower stem, keelson, deadwood, stern post, then re-attach the keel with new silicone bronze keel bolts. Scarfe repair, or totally replace 66 laminated oak ribs. Every bottom plank from the waterline down was removed and inspected, then either repaired or replaced and installed with new copper rivets and roves. All bottom seams were re-caulked with cotton ( as per original). Miscellaneous repairs were performed throughout. Cosmetically, the vessel’s topsides were in fair condition, so we touched-up and added paint or varnish to her existing finish.

” Christy ” is now back in the water, and is being sailed again on Lake Ontario by a very happy customer ( and no water in the bilge ). With ongoing periodic maintenance she should remain in excellent condition for generations to come. Happy sailing adventures to ” Christy ” and her family !

Thank-you for looking at the Woodwind Yachts display as part of the virtual Gravenhurst Antique and Classic boat show 2021. Next year we will feature a completely restored 1932 – 20′ Gidley launch in person ! See you there !

Ken Lavalette

Woodwind Yachts Inc.