Burger Zapf, M.D. and his wife Nancy have sailed together for well over 100,000 miles. In 1975 they crossed the Atlantic from Germany and cruised the Caribbean and South Pacific aboard their first boat Phantasus, a Northeast 38. Later they bought Halekai, an Alden 50 Center Cockpit, and prepared her for world cruising. They have cruised extensively from Nova Scotia to Trinidad, the NW Caribbean, across the Pacific to New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Halekai is now based in the Med.

Burger will discuss a dozen modifications he made to Halekai for self-reliant, safe and comfortable world cruising:

• change to cutter rigging with roller-reefing of all sails
• hardtop bimini with folding side and front panels for complete protection from the elements
• folding cockpit table with hinged side wings and unique solution allowing for a longer table to seat four comfortably
• radar arch with electric crane capable of lifting and launching an inflatable dinghy with 15 HP outboard attached
• chain locker modification moving the chain further aft for better self stowing and weight distribution
• large walk-in workshop including lathe, drill press, grinder, belt sander and optimized tool storage for maximum DIY self-sufficiency
• diving compressor modified for compressed air throughout the boat, allowing a hookah for hull cleaning and other uses
• dual 110/220 volt isolation transformer system for use worldwide, with discussion of  50/60 cycle issues
• compressor/generator refrigeration modernized to 12 volt system; changed original problematic spillover system
• modification of the Sodastream carbonation machine for making club soda and champagne
• combi washer/dryer, pros and cons
• alarm system, pros and cons