A warm summer's day in Belgium at the end of June, staged the perfect setting to organise an intimate gathering of friends and family and finally show the B-Craft Akoya.
The day could have started a little bit better. The van, which had all of the stand equipment inside, broke down on the way to the venue, the beautiful Port Aventura. A little hiccup, which we overcame just in time to start the event. The day started on land, in order for us to really tour everyone around the boat and show her features more clearly.
After blowing everyone's mind - and most of them are not really into boating- we finally put her into the water to let everyone feel the B-Craft Akoya. And the feelings were real. We had several runs with small groups of people and the reactions were generally the same.. big smiles all around. It felt super special for us to take our beloved ones into our passion and see that what we love, completely translated into them, by simply using the B-Craft Akoya as she was meant to be used: having fun!
Among the group of friends were the talented craftsmen, whom became friends along the way. It has been a challenging ride and it seems that challenges breed special connections between people. We took the opportunity that afternoon to honour them with a toast, a gift and to have them sign a piece of the B-Craft Akoya. Their names will always be embedded into our - and their - art piece.
B-Craft has been building this prototype for a while now. Along the way, we were fortunate enough to meet some very interesting, like-minded people. We were astounded that a few of these people made the effort to come and join us that day. The reactions to finally seeing the real deal were incredibly positive. Their support meant a lot to us that day.
Last but not least, it is important to note that neither for Joris or Roeland it has been an easy ride. Inevitably, one takes home at least some of the stress to home, not in the least the messed up schedules, cancelled plans and late-night working times. Only a strong partner can cope with the shadow side of chasing your dreams. We honoured Kato and Isabelle, our respective wives that day as well, as a token of our appreciation for their unwavering support.
A gorgeous day with beautiful people on an incredible craft.
Perfection.