Boatyards blossom beside the Maritime Museum. This business-like cruiser an intriguing fusion of old and new. Ketch rig is rare, on a new-build. The more so, combined with slab reefing. This is an owner who likes to keep things simple. And traditionally woody, judging from the lustrous brightwork of her superstructure. The hull form, however, is the height of contemporary: plumb ends, beam carried aft and twin rudders.
There are limits to how simple a yacht of this scale can be kept. A row of vans queue, on the quayside, to disgorge their cargoes of cardboard boxed components. To be man-handled aboard, as directed. As this seagoing jigsaw nears completion.
The swim platform cum dinghy garage door is proving a particular puzzle, to commission. Defying all attempts to raise it.
A sudden burst of sound and movement, is followed by silence. The electricians and carpenters relax, on the now partially raised platform. Whilst the hydraulics technician toils on, head bowed. Success, it seems, now rests solely on his shoulders.
The innovative Neel Trimarans hail from La Rochelle. They are building and launching industriously. Over on the pontoons, one lies fully commissioned and ready for collection, by her owner.
Against the wall, another has just had her mast stepped and sails bent on. Ready for sea trials.
A lone Class 40 lingers on, from last week's racing. Studying her reflection, in the still waters of the dock. Perhaps wondering how the final result is to be settled.
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