While some may dream of sailing the vast ocean during the summer months, there are those, like myself, who have found an unexpected joy in living on the hard standing. As boat owners, we sometimes find ourselves in situations where our vessel must be taken out of the water and placed on a stable surface for repairs, maintenance, or other reasons. In this blog post, I will reflect on my personal experience and share why I have thoroughly enjoyed living on the hard standing while others sailed the seas.
1. A Different Kind of Adventure:
Living on the hard standing offers a unique adventure that cannot be replicated by sailing. While others may be exploring the open waters, I found solace in the challenge of adapting to a new environment. From setting up temporary living arrangements to navigating unfamiliar sounds and sensations (not rock n roll but vibrations in winds of over 50 knots), each day presented exciting new opportunities for growth and discovery. I used to be scared of heights - not anymore! I can negoitate these ladders with no hands, laddened with shopping, washing, you name it. I can also trott up and down after a few tipples of whisky and thats progress!
2. Hands-On Learning:
From a technical perspective, living on the hard standing provided me with valuable hands-on learning experiences. As boat owners, we often rely on professionals for repairs and maintenance. However, being stationed on the hard standing allowed me to actively participate in the boat's upkeep, deepening my understanding of its intricacies. Embracing this educational aspect has been both empowering and fulfilling. Mind you I have not partipated in anything to do with our new engine installation, thats way above my pay grade!
3. Connection:
While sailing brings together individuals with a shared passion for the sea, the hard standing community unites individuals with a common goal of maintaining and restoring their boats. Engaging with fellow boat owners offers a chance to exchange knowledge, stories, and tips, creating a supportive and inclusive network. Although I would be a millionaire if I had a pound for every time some one said this year, 'Are you back in the water yet?' The simple and polite answer is no, next month perhaps, we have just been so busy at the marina. However, I really wanted to say- that question is really getting on my tits!!! Ok it has been a year, that is no reflection on my husbands talents, god forbid he turns his hand to many complex tasks. He even, shot blasted the keel back to bare metal this year and refaired the keel there after. Not to mention his spare time hobby of changing our engine from Volvo to Beta. Not a simple swap, more a stand on your head and move almost everything from left to right in the tightest space known to mankind with a torch permently strapped to his head and a few swear words added for good measure. We will be back in the water soon enough, It is only a temporary year long dry dock experience. The ducks will allign when the squirrels rave is over this summer I am sure. Its a Kerrera thing and blooming good fun it is too.
4. Broadened Perspective - its not all about sailing the high seas.
This time has also enabled me to engage with many different clients and deliver some fabulous workshops. I have travelled the uk by train, car and bus, getting to see some lovely destinations on land and mix with my other kind of tribe. Professionals who are working collaborativly together to achieve more. I also get to hang out with the most amazing team at Kerrera Marina, where team work is about personalities not just skills. Now that is something very special.
5. Appreciating What We Have:
Lastly, living on the hard standing allowed me to cultivate a profound appreciation for our boat and all that it offers. When we are constantly surrounded by the sea, we may sometimes take it for granted. However, by living on dry land, I could truly reflect upon the wonders of sailing and reignite the enthusiasm and respect for our vessel.
I conclude, while others sailed the seas all summer long, living on the hard standing provided a different perspective on the joys of boat ownership. By embracing the unique adventure, hands-on learning, community connection, broadened perspective, and a deepened appreciation for our vessel, I have discovered unexpected joy and fulfillment. So, next time your boat finds itself on the hard standing, embrace the experience and uncover the hidden treasures it has to offer.
Until the next time sending love and heaps of happiness.
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