s/v Good News is currently in the yard getting a bottom job. I waited a bit too long (three years), but the bottom was generaly in good condition. This time they are sanding down the bottom to the original surface because the old paint was literally flaking off, and we were afraid the new paint would not adhere.. A few blisters needed care, all on the port side near the waterline, but the more interesting item is that the keel-to-hull seam is now exposed. It is a fairly tight fit except for the first twelve inches or so. At the very front, there is about 1/4 inch gap. yard manager says he will re torque keel bolts, and then fare in the crack and re-seal it before applying the new bottom paint. He says it is not uncommon for Hunters and Catalinas to develop this sort of gap over the year as the first keel bolt is not right at the front of the keel. Is this some Hunter version of the "Catalina smile?" Am I right not to get too excited, as the yard has a good reputation and it is obvious that the crack was dealt with before, and it now appears to be time to do it again?? Yours for smaller yard bills, Sanders