New Equipment

Today, Soterion got a couple of new pieces of essential gear.  

First, as required by BVI Shipping Registry law, two new 24" commercial life rings with SOLAS-grade reflective tape, and the name SOTERION in 4" high letters.  I can't think of anything I'd rather have thrown to me if I were to fall off the boat (besides a cold beer).  Only thing it is missing is the beer holder.

Also upgraded the trolling gear, this appropriately named "Charter Special" made by Shimano boasts 4 ball bearings and a lever that allows you to set the drag to the precise level required for the fish you are fighting.

New Bilge Pump System

Bilge pumps are important.  So when the bilge pump float switch failed in the engine room, I decided to replace the switch and the old pump (which was getting squeaky anyway).  I went with a new pump with an integrated solid-state (capacitance-based) water sensor.  In case that failed, I installed a secondary float switch located higher in the bilge.  At that same level, there is another float switch which activates a high-pitched alarm in the crew cabin which is also audible at the helm.   Here is a picture of the new system.

Clean Gear

Guests always look at me when I hand them a mask and snorkel.  They usually don't say anything, but I can see the look in their eyes, which betrays the question that I know they are afraid to ask: "How many people have sucked on this before me?"  

Well folks, rest assured, we replace the gear regularly.  Furthermer, I personally soak the masks and snorkels in a solution of degreaser and bleach after every charter, and then rinse them off well and let them dry in the sun.

So snorkel on, and don't forget to use defog on the inside of your mask!