S
hakespeare knew how to capture the
essence of a story in a phrase, and “all’s
well that ends well” is one of his more
memorable and lasting lines. Coined to
summarise the often stormy relationship
between Helena and Bertram, it reflects that
sense of relief when a good outcome is finally
achieved in spite of the setbacks and frustrations
that preceded it.
When the 49 metre motor yacht Endless
Summer was launched, the celebration of a joyful
result was no doubt all the sweeter for the owners
because of the hurdles overcome in achieving it.
Their perseverance was rewarded last August
when the boat slid into the water in Seattle and
immediately embarked on an energetic schedule.
Living up to her name, Endless Summer
completed a maiden cruise to Alaska as the
season drew to a close and then headed out across
the Pacific to chase the southern hemisphere
summer – marking Christmas in Fiji, before
heading to New Zealand in time for New Year.
These passages posed stern tests of
seakeeping, with green water over the bow on the
way to Alaska and sustained winds up to 56 knots
in the Pacific. “She handled it well, riding pretty
comfortably considering what we had out there,”
says Captain Anthony Hodgson after their arrival
in Auckland.
As the crew make final preparations to
welcome the owners for a New Zealand cruise,
Endless Summer reflects a sense of quiet
confidence. After a tough baptism at sea, she has
earned her place among the world’s ocean
wanderers. Lying at the dock the new arrival,
with her pale grey hull and white superstructure,
attracts admiring looks. Even with her swept-
back mast, which conceals significant satellite
communication and media capability within its
four domes, the balance of length and height is
beautifully executed in a clean, elegant profile.
Within that stylish envelope, two expansive
lounges, multiple indoor and outdoor dining and
entertaining options, six guest suites and crew
accommodation for nine are spread across three
decks and a sundeck.
Closer inspection of the interior reveals fine
workmanship and finish, with Peruvian walnut,
sapele and bamboo joinery, leather detailing and
distinctive artworks combining in a relaxed,
welcoming ambience.
The owners have introduced custom features
that broaden the experience for their family and