Having already completed a circumnavigation as part of the Oyster World Rally under her previous ownership, this well-found Oyster 56 was due for various maintenance and service work, which her new owners, Joakim and Cecilia Furusten from Stockholm, were happy to entrust to Fox’s.
The Yanmar engine and Westerbeke genset both received a major overhaul and replacement/service of key components such as the injectors and pump, heat exchanger, raw water pump, turbo, alternator and starter motor.
The mast was stripped and in-mast furling serviced, spars repainted, all standing rigging replaced and new up-lighters fitted to the spreaders along with various electronics and navigation equipment and new domestic, maintenance-free, gel batteries installed.
The yacht was carefully moved into Fox’s spray shop to allow the original turquoise boot tops to be over painted in a more subtle grey Awlgrip, which along with the new, beautifully tailored, matching canvas work from Dolphin Sails & Covers, has given this beautiful classic Oyster a sleek, contemporary look.
Having completed tuning of the new rigging and undertaking final sail and power trials, the Fox’s team disembarked and Bliss headed north, via the Kiel canal to Stockholm and the start of a new life with her new owners.
The Furustens are experienced sailors – Joakim has completed a transatlantic in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers and their last boat was a high performance Elan 350, which they keenly raced. Alongside family and work commitments, the couple intend to spend the next few seasons familiarising themselves with Bliss, prior to embarking on their own circumnavigation and we wish them fair winds and great sailing as they set sail on their big adventure.