The 2026 sailing season is almost upon us here in Atlantic Canada. Like most boats, Gypsy Wind and I are starting to prep, slowly, messily, and with duct tape nearby. My 2026 dreams and schemes are already swirling in my head. But before the real work begins, here's a bare-bones, no-frills tour of her interior. A little sneak peek at the "before" — the projects I've got planned for this year.

I had the boat. I had the river. I had the wind. What I didn't have was a halyard that could actually raise a sail. Two halyards, zero sails, and the friends who saved my season.

Sometimes opportunities show up in the most unexpected ways.