We have discussed in the past the advantages of bare aluminum topsides (no maintenance or worry, initial cost reduction, lower visual profile, etc.). And we have grown to love this look.

But, after three-plus years of cruising, mostly off the beaten path, rafting with commercial vessels and laying on rough docks, we were getting a little tired of the view from the dinghy.

Being hauled out at Berthon’s in the UK provided a chance to give the topsides a clean up. As you can see in these photos, Wind Horse is looking very polished.

And the cost? Two thousand and eight-nine British Pounds (about US$3000). We are now ready for the next 37,000 miles of cruising.