What is the best modification or project that you have done to your boat? This could be in terms of how useful the modification is or it could be sheer aesthetics. Are you planning any future modifications that you think could top the best so far?
Hard to come with a best.
In terms of handling, the foiled rudder was the best thing I've done to my 23. It greatly improved the handling of the boat, tacked though easier and seemed to point a bit higher. Of course, having new sails made was the best performance enhancing improvement but that doesn't really count as a modification.
I've added a forward cowl vent in a dorade and an aft cowl vent on the small rear deck. These in addtion to the solar vent on the cabin top keeps things pretty fresh down inside.
I replaced the lift-off panels to the small storage bins in the cabin with sliding panels made of translucent fiberglass which slide in hardwood tracks. All left over from a constuction project. I removed the sink, which I found useless and made a 42" long chart table in it's place. It slides out far enough to read on while I'm seated and resting against the bulkhead. Same kind of thing for the stove-I built a 42" long platform for it so there is prep room next to the stove. It too slides out quite far- about 36".
Can't think of anything esle right now. Oh, all lights have been converted to LED but that's a minor thing. I also installed an Azek pad under the mast foot which is set in 5200. I never liked the idea of the stainless steel foot sitting directly on the fiberglass deck...seemed to invite leaks.
Bob23
Without a doubt, the best pure modification was replacing the manual water pump with 12V DC along with the hose bib for cockpit showers and washdown. That old pump was killing my bursitis.
The most useful of all the projects was the installation of the tiller pilot.
And honorable mention for solving the most irritating problem I've had with the boat is the modification to the rudder lift handle lock. No more kick ups without actually hitting something.
A future project in the planning stage is a pull out drawer to replace the drop board in front of the cooler storage area under the companionway steps. I think that will really cut down the clutter and chaos when getting something out of the cooler.
I'd have to vote for the combination of a tiller pilot, lazy jacks, and a Mack Pack style drop bag for the main. Takes the drama out of single handing.
Having a tiller pilot is very nice. Mine came with one or I would have added on ASAP as I singlehand a lot.
So far my best modification was the Garmin GPS Map 441s.
I am looking forward to adding an extra battery and pressurized water system to the boat.
Oh.
I forgot about the chartplotter. I plan to add an autohelm but haven't gotten around to it yet. But I like the drama of single handing: trying to set a whisker pole fast before the boat gybes is what life is all about! Depending on the point of sail and wind strength, I've had limited success with lashing the tiller.
I also like my riding sail. It adds a level of reassurance while the boat is moored, which is where she lives while not sailing.
Bob23
First place... Barton Marine Winchers. Alternate First place (different headsails) Light wind days 170% drifter which had me sailing when everyone else couldn't, heavy air days a 60% storm jib.
Second place... canSail TillerLock/Raymarine Tillerpilot tied for second.