Bringing Bubbles back to life was no short order. 

 

The last week of August 2023, my first visit down to the boat since January 2021, revealed a rabbit hole of disasters. There were more than a few tears shed on my part in frustration and anger at her state.

 

Every issue found, unearthed mountains of others. The corner cutting, mind-boggling hacks and negligence throughout the boat revealed themselves daily and kept us on our toes. 

 

As with any large-scale project, it took a small village to get Bubbles across the finish line.

 

The level of commitment, compassion, and generosity of spirit that each person brought while working on this project was truly something to witness. 

 

We wanted to do right by such a beautiful blue water vessel as well as honor a great man who brought so much adventure and brightness to so many.

 

The complexity of doing an extensive refit in the Virgin Islands with limited time, talent and resources provided lessons none of us will soon forget. 

 

I am forever grateful to all the folks who had a hand in what transpired the last 7 months. 

 

The local outfits that were hired went above and beyond and served Bubbles as if she were their own. The volunteers that came down worked tirelessly, learning to thrive in the intensity, enjoying the curveballs as they came.

 

We truly made a miracle happen.  

 

I thank the Chasing Bubbles Foundation for trusting us, especially in those challenging first weeks of discovery. Your faith in us carried us far.

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Captain Rust, we trust that your spirit has it from here. May all those lucky enough to sail upon your beautiful vessel, source your joy and curiosity.

 

Fair winds,

 

Christine