: Slightly off topic... but if the nylon had actually been torn i would have
: been stranded on that Island. Is there anything that I can take with me as
: a first aid repair to get me say 6 kms back to shore?

: BTW I gave a broad brush covering of varnish over the scratched area and it
: is like new.

Hi Brian,
Ducktape and towel. For the extra cautious, a needle, thread and some goo.
The towel is to dry the holed area.

Hope this helps.
Mike Savage
South West Cork

Repeat after me. Ducktape is your friend.