Letters from the Dock

Rosemary is in Good Hands

A note from Rosemary’s former owner captures something difficult to express: the long, uncertain process of learning a boat, and the quiet responsibility of becoming its custodian.

Matt Coutts

23 Apr 2026 • 3 min read

Hi Jean,

I just wanted to send you a note to say how fantastic it is to see the care, effort and thought you are putting into Rosemary.

Taking on a boat like her is no small thing, especially when there is so much to learn and so many decisions to make at once. But from everything I have seen, you are doing exactly the right things. You are looking after her properly, investing in her where it matters, learning from the professionals around you, and getting to know her piece by piece. That is exactly how it is done.

I know very well what this stage feels like. When I bought Rosemary, I went through the same process of spending time and money upgrading her, learning her systems, and coming to understand not just how she works, but also her character, her strengths and her weaknesses. It can feel never-ending when you are in the middle of it, but there really is light at the end of the tunnel. And when the time comes that you set off properly, with confidence in the boat and confidence in yourself, there is a huge sense of satisfaction in knowing you have earned that moment. The journey of preparing a boat like Rosemary is a big part of the adventure in itself, and it teaches you things you simply cannot learn any other way.

I have always felt that with boats like these, you never really own them. You are a custodian for a time. It is your turn to look after her, improve her, understand her, and carry her forward. It is a lovely thing to see Rosemary in the hands of someone giving her exactly that level of care and commitment.

I have also really enjoyed following your videos and blog. You are documenting the process brilliantly, and it is great to see Rosemary’s next chapter unfolding in such capable and thoughtful hands. Alaska is a magnificent ambition, and I have no doubt that all the work you are putting in now will make that future voyage all the more rewarding.

Wishing you all the very best with the refit and the preparations ahead. And please know that if there is ever anything I can help with, or if you just want to compare notes, you are very welcome to drop me a line.

All the best,

Matt

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