We’ve just paid our bill at Berthons in the UK, said our goodbyes, and are awaiting a delivery of charts and groceries after which we will head south. The lead photo speaks volumes about this business and its owners’ concept of dealing with their clients. These are without a doubt the nicest boatyard bathroom facilities within this galaxy. But wait, it gets better.

Berthons has the reputation of being expensive. Their hourly rates are higher than other local yards. However the key is not the rate, but the hours charged, in which case they are the most efficient yard we have ever used. A few examples:

• For cleaning the interior, pressure washing the deck, cleaning and  polishing the plastic hatches and wind screens, and giving the engine room a thorough wipe the charge was £157 / U$226.
• Checking the boat on a weekly basis for eight months was £185 / US$266. This included reporting back to us on humidity, freezer temperatures, and battery voltage.
• Cutting a plastic isolation pad for a winch (five holes) and making a new prop puller from 12mm stainless steel with three 12mm holes cost £91 / US$131.

All of the above include 17.5% VAT tax. Their hourly rate for journeymen is £44 per hour, apprentices average £20/25 per hour.

Greg Weekes, the project manager assigned to coordinate our needs, was thorough and efficient. And they are nice folks, friendly, and willing to help with information or a hand with dock lines. Needless to say, we recommend them.

We have also found Sue Grant, the Managing Director of the Berthons brokerage business, to be a real gem. We have recommended her to several of our owners and they have all been pleased with her services which resulted in quick sales of their Deerfoot and Sundeer yachts.

After leaving Wind Horse in Berthons care the last two winters we have come to feel the town of Lymington is like a second home. But the urge to head west is upon us so this will be our last visit. We hope we can find as good a facility for next winter’s layup.