On the hard in South America
We have lifted Velvet Lady in many different places in Europe, but this is the first time in South America. The hoist in Piriapolis is the biggest we have ever used, 100 tons and the lift bay is the widest at 7.8metres. Usually we have to take the backstay off (so it doesn't hit the crossbar) when we reverse in. We cannot take the forestays off because of the roller reefing gear, so going in forwards is usually not an option. This time there was just enough room to go in forwards. A good job too. We had removed the backstay as usual but with a crosswind, prop walk and no bow thruster I was having great difficulty lining up to reverse into the hoist bay. When we talked to him before the lift, the yard manager had been hesitant but thought we might fit forwards. Seeing our difficulty backwards he told us to come in forwards and we will give it a try. Followed by if not we will turn you around by hand! Driving into the bay forwards was a doddle, but once we were bea...