For 2 weeks in 2018 Roger, Chris, and I sailed the North Channel in our Compacs. I encourage everyone to sail these waters at least once. If you recall, or for those who are new here, I left my dinghy on the dock in Spanish. By the time I realized it, I wasn't in the mood to turn back. I called the marina and asked them to give it to the young men and women attending the docks. It wasn't an expensive boat, $150 if memory serves me, and I only purchased it for that trip. However, now that we own a larger boat too, a good dinghy is a necessity. Especially with the planned outings with the sailing club we joined. The local provision store was able to locate a used Achilles for only $250, and just in time for a 2 week cruise around the Albemarle sound. The event is planned through "SCOO". The Sailing Club of Oriental. I'm still not sure if I'm going, (joanie is pushing for me to go, so there's an ulterior motive there) but I'll have the Seidelman provisioned and the tanks topped off in case the planets align themselves for me.
If I go, I'm going solo, unless someone (Chris, hint, hint) would like to come along.
It's May 25th through June 10th. (in case you need to check your schedule)
Looks like some transom repair is in order. The glue is overwhelming. be sure you use a chemical respirator, even outside. Can you say personal experience?
The transom is solid. I think what your seeing are the metal cleats are corroded. I checked it this morning and it still has air. Not as hard as yesterday, but good. The provision store in town works on inflatables. They'll replace the tubes, flooring, whatever it needs, if it needs anything.
A second look confirms your opinion. A word of caution, rusted things will destroy the wood they are attached to and through. Get them off and repair any damaged wood. The air thing is normal. when air is compressed it heats up. Mr. Boyle says hot air will create more pressure until it cools off within a controlled volume. Just add more air.