Unstepping a Mast in Galveston

[NTD]

I will be getting ready to ship my 46' boat from Galveston to San Francisco. I have never derigged a mast this size and I figure it is sensible to get some help. I was wondering does anyone have any recommendations for riggers in Galveston.
really appreciate any insights
Nick

[AnchorageGuy]

In the Clear Lake/ Kemah area you can have everything done at the marina at Watergate or Seabrook, including loading the boat on a truck. Chuck

[NTD]

Thanks Chuck. I am at the Galveston yacht basin and they have the facilities to do the job. I was jsut looking for some experienced assistance.

I draw about 8'5" and have a tough time getting into Clear Lake. I know it can be done with some local knowledge but sadly I am also lacking in that area.

Now just if the tropical storms will stay away for a bit longer. (Go away Don)

Nick

[AnchorageGuy]

8'5" wow. That will be a lot even for San Francisco Bay. I did my first ever sail on the Bay. Good luck and the TS should pass well south of you. Chuck

[NTD]

Yes that draft is great for sailing but not much help around shore.
I bought the boat in Wilmington NC and spent time bumping down the coast (literally bumping) It was interesting sailing with locals who know where the shallow spots are and accelerate like mad to plow through the soft muck.
The ICW wasn't a fun experience but it is the only place to find a marina and fuel.
I cant wait to get that keel back in the Pacific.

[Sam Plan B]

Un stepping a mast is not that complicated. I did it myself alone with the help of a hired crane truck. Really, it is just common sense. The crane operator should be able to provide all the advice you need. Just think it through. 1. Take the boom off the mast. 2. Disconnect all the mast wiring. 4. Secure all the running rigging. 5. When the crane truck arrives hook the sling aroung the mast and take up the slack to the spreaders (attach a downhaul to the sling). 6. Disconnect the standing rigging. 7. Hoist out the mast. 8. Control the heel of the mast. 9. Lay the mast down on the deck, secure the standing rigging, support the mast and secure it (if it is going to travel on deck). To hoist it back do the reverse. You may need a second person to pass on your directions to the crane operator when you guide the mast heel onto the step.

[bstreep]

If you are wanting a good rigger, call Kevin at Stix n Rigging. 281-334-7849

[rgscpat]

Is the trucking company one that cares whether you leave rigging partially on the mast or not? They may have guidance on how they expect it prepped and whether they want the mast stripped all the way or not.

[Sam Plan B]

It's your boat. It's your mast. It's your responsibility.

[NTD]

Originally Posted by bstreep

If you are wanting a good rigger, call Kevin at Stix n Rigging. 281-334-7849

Thanks. You are the second person to recommend him. Sounds like good advice and well worth taking. It is after all my mast and my responsibility!! Hehehe.
Much appreciated.

[NTD]

Originally Posted by Sam Plan B

Un stepping a mast is not that complicated. I did it myself alone with the help of a hired crane truck. Really, it is just common sense. The crane operator should be able to provide all the advice you need. Just think it through. 1. Take the boom off the mast. 2. Disconnect all the mast wiring. 4. Secure all the running rigging. 5. When the crane truck arrives hook the sling aroung the mast and take up the slack to the spreaders (attach a downhaul to the sling). 6. Disconnect the standing rigging. 7. Hoist out the mast. 8. Control the heel of the mast. 9. Lay the mast down on the deck, secure the standing rigging, support the mast and secure it (if it is going to travel on deck). To hoist it back do the reverse. You may need a second person to pass on your directions to the crane operator when you guide the mast heel onto the step.

Great info. Thanks.
My last boat was a 23' deck stepped. This one is a 46' boat keel stepped. I also have navtech hydraulics. It seemed prudent to get some experienced professional assistance my first time with this.

[bstreep]

Originally Posted by NTD

Great info. Thanks.
My last boat was a 23' deck stepped. This one is a 46' boat keel stepped. I also have navtech hydraulics. It seemed prudent to get some experienced professional assistance my first time with this.

Kevin also has the only Navtech certified shop in Texas.