Ariel #331

[Bill]

We have found a boat that is not in the registry, and it’s right here in the SF Bay Area Ariel #331 was recently acquired by John Apley who, interestingly, is a live aboard on a power boat in the same marina -- Richmond’s Harbor Bay marina. Nice marina with wide concrete docks and gangways.

Sorry to report that the boat is in pretty neglected shape. I believe the former owner was aging and developing physical disabilities which eventually forced the sale of the boat.

John is just starting the cleaning and repair routine, and there’s lots of work to be done. But, one of its previous owners ("PO") made some interesting interior modifications. The PO evidently had some ideas for making things more comfortable for cruising the Bay and Delta -- definitely NOT a racer.

John, I believe, does not have internet access and may not own a computer.

Let’s begin with an outside view [Note -- We found only one small soft spot in the deck]:

[Bill]

Here's a view of the cockpit & mainhatch. Condition of all the exterior wood trim is poor.

[Bill]

View of cabin from mainhatch. Not that the hanging locker and vanity have both been removed making the quarter berths that much longer. Must have been tall people. [Note -- Door also is gone from the companionway.]

[Bill]

The PO added lead just aft of the head. Also, the original pigs are stuffed way forward in the bilge. Appears there may be an extra 200 pounds of ballast. Should really stiffen up the boat

[Bill]

Forcabin bunk & chain locker. Not insert to make bunk larger.

[Bill]

View of chain locker and added bulkhead. Chain was kept in the forward most compartment and there is a hawsepipe fitting above. The blue hose in the H2O hose going to the water tank.

[Bill]

Starboard bunk & stowage.

[Bill]

Port bunk and stowage. The backrest cushion is actually one of the cockpit cushions.

[Bill]

Here it is with the cushion out of the way.

[Bill]

The maincabin steps have drawers for storage.

[Bill]

Upper drawer step removed

[Bill]

Both drawer steps removed

[Bill]

Ops, here's the view with the step drawers and hatch open

[Bill]

Where the stove is stowed.

[Bill]

The part of the icebox inside the cabin was removed and there is a shelf / chart table in its place. The original ice compartment is still there and is only accessible from the cockpit. (A cockpit drink holder?).