Gloom but not doom

The news is better than expected. There is no hole on the hull. The damage was caused by the vibration on the shaft which was so violent that it dislodged the stuffing box, broke the seal and allowed water to come in. Maybe this is not the most correct of explanations but it's pretty much what I understood.
We slept last night aboard Sweet Tides and this morning bright and early we all had showers in the luxurious facilities of the marina club where Sweet Tides is docked. The marina itself is really very beautiful. Pictures will follow in future postings.
Juan went off to see Zingaro while Mike, Idette and I had breakfast on Sweet Tides and waited for the driver from the rental agency to pick us up. After we'd rented the car we came over to take a look a poor Zingaro. To be able to work on the shaft and fiber Juan had completely disassembled the aft berth. Everything went: bed, side lockers, compartments - plus everything we had inside. So it was hard work. The fiber specialist was looking at the damage.
Our super special, expensive British feathering propeller caused the damage. Juan called them but of course they were not to keen the acknowledge they could be at fault: we know two other people that have lost a blade and we ourselves had sent the propeller back to England when there was a recall. The problem obviously had not been fixed.
Later in the day, while Idette and I were driving to Miami, Juan called and explained what they had discovered. Originally he though they would replace the bearings, but in the end decided not to and are working on the fiber. Juan also called Jeanneau and complained of the bad design of the fiber casing where the bearings go. More details to follow.
The fiberglass person agreed to continue working on the boat tomorrow, so if all goes well maybe by Tuesday or Wednesday we can be on our way.
In the meantime Idette and I are sleeping in the lap of luxury in Miami Beach where we stay until Sunday afternoon on a job. Mike and Juan will continue toiling on our behalf. Juan who almost died yesterday with the stress and was very, very depressed, is still worried but much more upbeat.