Not long after purchasing The Wizard, I commissioned upgrades to various components and or added items. This work was carried out while on the hardstand and when back in the water and took almost two months to complete. Lacking the skill sets involved, I employed shipwrights, marine electricians, a metal fabricator, and a decal specialist.

With any project being carried out on a boat, it does not take long, before you are stepping over things and unable to find a place to sit.

To improve the green footprint of The Wizard, I had a 120 Litre holding tank installed which was custom-made to fit in under the forward berth. At the same time, I had an electric toilet installed replacing the manual toilet. The new toilet is salt water flushed, because I do not have a water maker onboard. One day I hope!

One essential improvement was starboard and port mid-cleats added, Coming onto a jetty with crew or solo, I always find securing the mid cleat first easy and safe. I always bring the bow line back to the mid cleat, so once the mid is secure, I can step onto the jetty and then secure the bow followed by the stern placing springers where needed. The cleats look a little undersized for The Wizard, but they were the largest possible given the width of the toe rail and they carry a large working load.

It is always an anxious moment when holes are cut or drilled into your boat. But it has to be done when you need equipment installed like cockpit speakers or navigation gear. You feel easy when the equipment fits snuggly into the hole and a water-tight seal is created.

I am extremely happy with the upgrades made to The Wizard. I have customised the boat to my liking and I do not hold to the old saying, ‘Your current boat is a stepping stone to your next boat.’