richardafortin

The winds have finally settled. Starting the day with an early morning cruise. Plan is simple: find a quiet anchorage, fire up the BBQ, and enjoy a swim. This is why I live on the water.

The sun’s out, the boats are full of families making memories, and I’m soaking it all in—great breakfast, a good book on deck, and calls from the people I love.

Days like this remind me of the man I became because of the man who raised me. My father would’ve loved this life on the water. His lessons live on in every calm moment and every storm I’ve learned to weather.

Cold start to the day, felt more like 9° than 13°. Summer still feels like it’s warming up.

When the chill sets in, comfort food calls. Stopped by Amsterdam Brewhouse for a pint, Korean calamari, and fish and chips done right. Local beer, hot food, and waterfront views—hard to beat that combo when the wind bites a little.

Another year younger… or at least that’s how we’re spinning it.

Spent the day tied up at the island with good friends, good food, and a strong cup of coffee to kick it off. Got roasted by a sarcastic birthday card (thanks for that), broke in the new rammoli board, and soaked in the kind of views you can only get when your front yard floats.

Simple day. Lots of laughs.

A last-minute ride across the harbour, tied up at Hanlan’s Point. Warm breeze, calm water, city lights dancing on the surface. Quiet moments like this remind me why I chose this life. Still, peaceful, and full of possibility.

Treat Yourself Tuesday looked a little different today.

Worked from the office—strange how the desk doesn’t rock with the waves… or maybe I’ve just been living aboard too long. On the way back to the boat, I grabbed one of my favourites from Oklahoma Burgers—fried onion burger, crinkle-cut fries, and a side of harbour views.

Picked up some flowers too. No reason, just felt like it. Sometimes it’s the little things.

Amazing night out on the town with Wes and the crew. The boys are in town, and we did it right—started with Asian fusion, slid into a hidden speakeasy, hit a club, and ended the night back on the boat. Good food, better company, and the kind of night that reminds you how lucky you are.

Wrapped up the week by sliding into my summer spot. The sun’s out, and this view doesn’t get old. Sitting on the back deck with a glass of wine in hand, sandals on, watching the city buzz while the water stays calm.

Life at the edge of the dock has its perks.

Started with the final mechanical checks — love any excuse to get hands-on with the engines. Big blue skies hung over the harbour all day. New leather chairs landed in the cabin, a small upgrade that makes a big difference.

Around me, boaters shook off winter, peeling back their wraps and breathing life into the docks. Every good 80’s boat comes with a cocktail bar. Today I opened mine with a simple mix: limoncello, gin, and prosecco.
Sat back, took it all in.
Today was a good day.

The skies finally cleared and ended the day with some well-earned sunshine. Boats are slowly breaking free from their winter cocoons. I moved a couple of thoughtful gifts from the kids onboard—adding a little more of “me” to the place I already call home.

Made the trip back to London to visit Wes and cast our votes in the federal election. As a liveaboard boater, “home” is wherever the lines are tied—but when it comes to voting, it happens where your mail gets delivered.

Grateful for the chance to share this moment with my son. Whether you live on land or water, your vote matters. Make sure your voice is heard.

Early morning stillness before the city wakes up. Water like glass. The skyline catching the first light of day.

Grateful for mornings like this.