maintaining a boat is probably the hardest thing to do, especially when it’s parked in the harbor 24/7. the sun hits it and fades the paint, the salt water hits it and rusts things out, and the barnacles and algae start to grow on the bottom. you have to be dedicated and work very hard to upkeep it in perfect condition. it’s been a year since Mayuki’s been in the water and if you seen it now, you will think it’s still brand new. it takes time and money, but when you’re riding so freely in the ocean, it’s worth every minute and every penny.
i scrub the bottom about 2-3 times a month. most people pay somebody to do this. it costs about $40-50 each time. when the day comes to scrub the bottom, i skip my daily exercise at home, and do it in a productive way. i take her out to the blue sea, anchor her in front of a surf spot, and i put on my mask.
i get a scrubbing pad, and get ready for the ultimate workout.
i usually start off with the sides. it gets my heart beating fast and my blood flowing.
then i take my deep breaths and go upside down. usually 1 minute 30 seconds each breath scrubbing and scrubbing. i do round and round, then go back and do more rounds and rounds just to make sure i didn’t miss anything. people usually use scuba, i use my lungs. the best workout ever. and if you don’t believe me, i’ll take you with me next time and you can help. haha.
then when she’s all clean, i grab my surfboard and ride a few waves into the sunset. great workout and saved some money. that’s a great way to live simply.
photos by Naoka
