# Boat Plan: Detailed Next Steps

Overall, the boat is in pretty good shape, or so it seems to me. Reminder: I'm very new to boat ownership - This is my first! After giving it a thorough once over, I've worked out the following...

## Airflow

Unfortunately, the docks at the lake do not have power, so I will have to rely on passive ventilation for now. My plan is to get a [Marinco Solar Powered Vent Fan](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074MGD8XL/) to install in the front hatch. In order to ensure good flow, I'm considering adding a 4" [stainless vent](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09Z35BQK7/?coliid=I1J4C6VOCV0F4C&colid=2YSQXNPH12T8B&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it&th=1) to the companionway door, but I want to confirm with someone more knowledgeable that that isn't a bad idea.

Additionally, for the winter, I plan on adding a dehumidifier to run 24/7, with a condensate pump to get all the water out of the boat. I just need to figure out a good way to get the hose out of the main compartment without letting more water *in*.

![A collage of various airflow treatments for the boat. Two vents, a solar powered vent fan, and a dehumidifier.](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1719859354361/7dc2de06-d8ad-4b1e-9f57-38c4aa0fc775.png align="center")

## Cleaning

There will be a lot of cleaning involved. This boat seems to have sat closed for at least a season. I pulled all the soft goods out and it looks like the vinyl cabin cushions are salvageable. The others can likely be saved for a season or two, but ultimately I want to replace them.

For the interior cushions (corduroy & vinyl), I used a combination of vinegar, detergent, and OxiClean to de-mold and freshen them. I tried this on some throw pillows that were in the cabin and it worked perfectly, so I think it will work well on the larger covers as well. For the foam, I plan to use diluted vinegar and lots of sunshine to try and freshen them.

The exterior cushions are covered in vinyl. I did try a vinyl cleaner on them, but it wouldn't get out the stains from the mold/mildew, so I decided to use some bleach spray on them. I know this is generally not a thing you want to do to vinyl, but I think it is worth it once to establish a baseline. I did try this on one cushion and it had no negative effects and got most of the staining out. After this, I will stick to vinyl cleaner.

## Replace the Mast Step

![Image of a mast step from a Capri 22 in good condition, courtesy of Catalina Direct.](https://cdn.hashnode.com/res/hashnode/image/upload/v1719858266174/9e476a38-6203-4899-8851-392ef56b9698.jpeg align="center")

Thankfully, the [mast step](https://www.catalinadirect.com/shop-by-boat/capri-18/rigging/standing-rigging/mast-step-c-22-cp-22cp-18-wwelded-vang-loop/) is a fairly inexpensive part. I ordered it from Catalina Direct as well as [new bolts](https://www.catalinadirect.com/shop-by-boat/catalina-22/rigging/standing-rigging/mast-step-fastener-kit-86-gt/) and [sealant](https://www.catalinadirect.com/shop-by-boat/catalina-38/hull-deck/midship/polyurethane-sealant-high-strength-adhesive-5200/). They should get here in a week or two. I also got some flexible marine butyl tape and may end up using either or both. Still trying to decide. All in, it's 'bout another hundred...

## What else?

Again, I'm far from an expert here. I joined and reached out to [The Nockamixon Sail Club](https://nockamixonsailclub.org/) to see if anyone with experience would be willing to come by and do a once-over on the boat with me to see what I missed. Hopefully someone will volunteer. I've offered bribes in the form of Pastured Poultry and unskilled/skilled labor.