Yes, that’s our skiff … and yes, it’s in the water! In preparation for an official launch in Burntisland on Sunday 26th May, we undertook a set of ‘sea trials’ at Kinghorn Loch. On the 5th May, four years after COVID forced us to postpone our build, we were able to enjoy the sight of our boat in her element.
The day started off with a gathering of members and helpers at the workshop. Have you ever tried to get a 22-foot boat through a door before? Us neither. But after a bit of jostling we managed to get her manoeuvred out and sat upon her road trailer.
Our departure from the workshop highlights the great debt of thanks we owe to Irene, a Burntisland resident who gracefully offered us a rent-free boatbuilding space when we began our enterprise four years ago. Somehow she never tired of our presence as we navigated our way through lockdowns, delays and setbacks.
The privilege of imparting the traditional sprinkling of whisky went to one of the younger associates of the club!
The skiff’s first crew – comprising Chris, Finlay, Lily, both Martins, Joel, Aidan and Elisa – proceeded to take her for a test drive. She’s proven an absolute delight to row, and a handful of minor teething issues will be rectified in the coming days.
With the successful completion of trials, our skiff is ready to be moved to her permanent berth at Burntisland Sailing Club. We’ll launch on 26th May at 2pm from the slipway by the Beacons Leisure Centre. Feel free to come by for a look and a chat if you think rowing might be for you!
Report by Finlay Robertson
