Heatwave in a steel tube

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.

This morning, after a good night's sleep under just a sheet, we're rejoicing in the stiff breeze across the pond again. The nearby wind turbine is flying round. Let's hope it stays that way! I'm wondering how the local birds are dealing with the heat. The swans seem to be managing. It must be advantageous having so much of their bodies under water.

The day continued just as Monday. Temperatures were a couple of degrees higher, but today it wasn't just a breeze that moved the air in the boat. It was quite a wind! A hot wind, it has to be said, but it was pleasant.

Forecasts say it will get cooler overnight, and it'll be back to the way it was last week. I wonder how the others got on - those who went out to avoid the heat. We're glad we stayed here in the marina.

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