Captain's Log 250326

The rain is falling steadily against the windows here in Swords, but my mind keeps drifting south to the warm, calm waters of the Ébrié Lagoon in Abidjan.

My journey on the water began back in the mid-1970s, sailing off Durban and Cape Town on my father's yachts and crewing on day trips from Hout Bay to Seal Island. That early passion led me through yacht maintenance and brokerage in Palma, deckhand and mate roles on various charter yachts, major refits in Mallorca, and eventually fourteen rewarding years as Captain of the elegant M/Y Labrador out of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat.

After more than thirty years at sea — handling transatlantic passages, running charters in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, project-managing restorations to MCA standards, training crews, and always focusing on genuine guest hospitality — I've learned what really creates a memorable time on the water.

This next chapter feels different, and I'm excited about it. Instead of large ocean-going yachts, I'm starting with practical, stable pontoon-style boats on the lagoon. These comfortable, shaded platforms are perfect for small, relaxed groups — offering easy handling, generous seating, and the freedom to simply enjoy the scenery and good company without constant heavy maintenance.

Later, once the business is established, I look forward to some personal restoration projects again — working on wooden or classic hulls the way I did with Labrador. But for now, the focus is clear: getting safe, comfortable boats on the Ébrié Lagoon and building something sustainable and enjoyable.

From Ireland the dream still feels a long way off some days, yet every list I make, every supplier I speak with, and every quiet moment spent planning brings it a little closer.

The course is set.

– Captain James Stuart Murray