The difficulties of bringing a boat to water....

During the many years of restoring Happy Return, we never thought much about finally bringing her to the water once she was ready. So, there were a lot of last minute logistics to sort out: new wheels on the trailer, a help from neighbour Connie O'Sullivan with his tractor on Sunday morning, organizing the crane at Roaringwater pier with the Whooley brothers.
Impossible to plan in detail!

Gleaming in the sunshine - ready to go to sea!

At the pier at last - loading fenders, mattresses, sails and camping cookers

Happy Return finally hatching!

Sometimes it seemed like this day would never come - finally Happy Return is on her trailer, almost ready to head towards the sea. Some minor details still have to be taken care of, such as positioning of the travellers, cutting the sheets and halyards, fixing the hatch hinges...and of course the name on the transom! But still, the sense of achievement is elating!

Happy Return almost ready for launching!

Unrelenting attention to detail!

A boat like Happy Return (26ft Stella One Design), is like a miniature house with engine, electrics and plumbing. Because of the limited space, every single item has to be placed very carefully, keeping in mind everything that is going to happen on board.
There are many books and articles which attempt to teach and help with boat electrics/plumbing/rigging - but ultimately, one has to really imagine oneself sailing the boat to make those crucial decisions...

Shroud plates finally fitted

Laying cables for windlass

Wiring up switches

Very nearly ready to paint!

Nosing through the door towards the sea!