Love it! People like Walt and those he represent are a dying breed. It's great to write such a tribute but the undercurrents are worrying for us old school DIY sailors.
That being said, society always evolves but I think there is enough of us to keep it real. Home base often changes whether you are on land or sea.
I think the skill set for boat work has already diminished. Late last season I had motor and electrical issues. Getting someone to look at it took forever and the price was sky high. I remember in the old days mechanics used to come out by boat and do service. I admire people who DIY but I think some are doing it because they can not get service elsewhere or it is too expensive. Either way it may be cutting into the professionals revenue and reducing their availability. In general though on land the trades are harder and harder to find, less people doing it. This may just be an extension of that.
Totally agree on all counts. Nearly impossible to get a plumber or an electrician to come to our house. If I were young and starting out, the trades would be where I would go. You will always have work…
I like your view of older boats being good boats. If one is reasonably handy a good case can be made for refitting an older boat. Just try to about stuffing it with complicated systems.
Love it! People like Walt and those he represent are a dying breed. It's great to write such a tribute but the undercurrents are worrying for us old school DIY sailors.
That being said, society always evolves but I think there is enough of us to keep it real. Home base often changes whether you are on land or sea.
Appreciate your insight!
I hope you’re right! Gotta keep up the good fight! Appreciate your comment!
Man. This hit home. Remember, Walt hasn’t passed away, he transitioned into spirit form!
Very true. Thank you!
Thank you for a great rememberence.
I think the skill set for boat work has already diminished. Late last season I had motor and electrical issues. Getting someone to look at it took forever and the price was sky high. I remember in the old days mechanics used to come out by boat and do service. I admire people who DIY but I think some are doing it because they can not get service elsewhere or it is too expensive. Either way it may be cutting into the professionals revenue and reducing their availability. In general though on land the trades are harder and harder to find, less people doing it. This may just be an extension of that.
Totally agree on all counts. Nearly impossible to get a plumber or an electrician to come to our house. If I were young and starting out, the trades would be where I would go. You will always have work…
I like your view of older boats being good boats. If one is reasonably handy a good case can be made for refitting an older boat. Just try to about stuffing it with complicated systems.
Precisely! Thank you!
Thanks for another report. I too hope we can maintain the infrastructure and community for affordable cruising. Thanks for all you do to support this!
Thanks Charlie!