#245t WHY does the Leopard Windows DELAMINATE? Sailing Sisu Leopard 45 Catamaran Circumnavigating

Sailing enthusiasts and adventurers Frick and Petra (F&F) from South Africa embark on a daring endeavor to fix the severely delaminated windows of their Leopard 45 Catamaran named Sisu, documenting their journey in a captivating YouTube series. This video outlines the process they undertake, overcoming various obstacles to successfully rehabilitate the problematic windows while continuing their global circumnavigation adventure.

Diagnosing and Understanding the Issue

The Leopard Catamaran, chosen as their home for a life of full-time sailing, faces challenges due to delaminated windows. F&F recognize the critical need to address this issue promptly. The windows exhibit significant white and gray delamination with parts sticking unevenly. In certain areas, whole sections lack laminations.

Warranty Struggles and Budget Constraints

F&F recount their attempts to utilize warranties for replacements but faced rejections due to high costs, impacting their travel budget. A single window replacement costs a hefty $5,000. This revelation puts a damper on their plans, compelling them to consider charting options to finance further travels.

The DIY Plan Unfolds

Unwilling to succumb to financial constraints, F&F decide on a DIY approach, planning a meticulous project using wooden lumber and specialized tools. They begin preparations by purchasing necessary materials including a Makita brushless saw and drill, confident in their ability to handle the task.

Leveraging Expertise Amidst Challenging Conditions

Location plays a significant role as they undertake this ambitious project on Stocking Island in the Bahamas, known for its stunning blue waters. They navigate through complex technical challenges under ideal conditions offered by Georgetown’s serene setting amidst hundreds of nearby boats.

Strategies and Techniques Deployed

F&F create wooden frames and utilize C-Flex for sealing around the windows, aiming for precision in every detail. They use spacer wedges to achieve the right distance and pressure points. Despite challenges like potential boat movement affecting the window seal during unstable sea conditions, they devise solutions using various materials such as guitar strings for cutting tasks, demonstrating their adaptability and creativity in problem-solving.

The Outcome and Future Plans

With determination and meticulous work, they successfully remove the delaminated layers, replace weather strips, and reinstall the windows on Sisu. The process involves careful attention to detail, patience, and teamwork. Despite facing some gaps and high spots after the repair that need fine-tuning upon arrival in Puerto Rico, F&F express satisfaction with their handiwork under challenging conditions.

Moral of the Story

This episode highlights not just a physical challenge but also the emotional and financial hurdles faced by Sailing Sisu as they undertake this project. Their success reflects determination, adaptability, and a strong commitment to each other and their shared dream of circumnavigating the globe aboard Sisu. Their journey is an inspiring testament to what can be achieved with perseverance and a can-do attitude. As F&F chart future courses on their sailing adventure, this endeavor showcases that sometimes it’s not about having all the answers or endless resources but the ability to find creative solutions and the resilience to carry on.