We've experienced very hot weather several times over our years on the boat, but of course the temperatures expected this weekend are way higher than ever before. Like many people, we were a little anxious about how we might keep cool in this metal tube that we live in. Outside, the steel hull and cabin become untouchable even in normal conditions.
Come the first day, Monday, it wasn't too bad for us. A spray gun full of water proved to be very useful for wetting our faces, necks, chests... whatever was hot! And there was a good breeze across the marina pond, so having every window and door open allowed that breeze to move through the boat and lower the temperature. It got even better when we remembered that the whole of the top of each window is easily and completely removable. The thermometers still registered over 36℃, however. Eating chocolate biscuits was really quite amusing! Cooking dinner was right out of the question; it's just as well we love a good salad.
We're rather anxious about our fridge, ten years old and pumping all day and much if not all of the night to keep the food cold. How long can it keep that up for?
A number of boats on the marina took to the cut in the hope of finding somewhere to moor where they could shelter from the sun. I guess those of us who stayed didn't see the point in trying. There'll be a lot of boats out there vying for the best spots.