Reawakening summer

Not much comes close to uncovering your boat after a long winter. Most people would consider spring preparation a heavy task, but not us – boat enthusiasts. We cherish this part of boat ownership; for many of us, it's a sacred time of year with glimpses of what is to come. 

For Simon and his father, taking their Enduro 705 from winter storage is like reuniting with an old friend. As the promise of summer beckons, there's no hurry in their steps. Preparing the boat is a labour of love, a ritual where each task is performed carefully. This process isn't just about maintenance—it's a cherished opportunity to disconnect from the hustle of everyday life, forge deeper connections with their beloved vessel, and enjoy invaluable father-son time.

Their routine is well-established and imbued with small traditions that enhance the experience. The day begins early, with father and son rising before dawn. This quiet, serene start brings a sense of accomplishment and sets a positive tone for the day. Fuelled by a hearty breakfast and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the duo feel ready to tackle the day ahead.

As they head out to the garage on the farm, where the boat is winterised, the world starts shifting from the quiet of pre-dawn to the bright potential of the day. With a full day ahead at the farm, they put their phones on silent—today, the outside world can wait. The soundtrack to their work is a mix of classic 80s rock, setting a rhythm to their movements as they go through the motions. Inspecting the hull, checking the engine, and testing the electronics become not just necessary tasks but acts of care, each step bringing them closer to the water.

The meditative process allows both father and son to lose themselves in the work. The boat slowly comes to life under their hands, its readiness a testament to their shared effort. With a checklist prepared, each task, from polishing the deck to checking the safety equipment, has become second nature, built on experience through years of shared summers and sea voyages.

As the day progresses, anticipation builds. The water calls to them, a siren song of adventures to come. Once the boat is launched, the nature of their quality time shifts. What was once anticipation transforms into reality—early mornings with plans to put nautical miles under the hull. And countless hours of exploration and relaxation in the company of friends and family on open water. This shift from preparation to execution brings a different kind of joy and satisfaction. The work done beforehand enhances their enjoyment, allowing them to embrace the sea's challenges and pleasures without worry.

By the time they're ready to launch, the boat has transformed from a mere vessel—it has become a shared dream and a gateway to the forthcoming summer, promising new tales to tell and new memories to make.