After Patrick's career as manager of successful transport companies in Antwerp, it was time to make their dream come true. Their three children are grown up and they are proud grandparents of two grandchildren. They also have a great circle of friends around them. After a lifetime of hard work, they now want to focus on the beautiful things in life.

Meeting place for the family

Of course, their passion for the water had to play a major role in their enjoyment. The summers on charter yachts were so nice that they wanted to have their own yacht built. The marina of choice for their friends is Tholen, which is about forty minutes from Antwerp. A nice gathering place for the family and a beautiful starting point for day, weekend, or week trips. But also for longer holidays aboard to Scandinavia, Germany, or France.

Their search originally focused on a fast yacht, but in the end they opted for a displacement model. Because of the travel goals, fuel consumption, and stability, this seemed the best option for them. Trips to water sports fairs followed, to find the right shipyard for the construction of their dream yacht. From Hiswa to Boot Düsseldorf, they visited many. Various shipyards were also visited.

Good feeling about Super Lauwersmeer

When they came across the Pursuit of Happiness and the Yanos by yacht builder Super Lauwersmeer on YouTube, a preference for this beautiful type quickly emerged. Two Discovery 47 OC models, yet completely different. They found the Porsche chalk white exterior color of the Pursuit of Happiness beautiful. With the bright orange Yanos, it was the lounge feeling of the interior that deeply appealed to them. They also met with Bastiaan Jousma, co-owner of Super Lauwersmeer.

Thanks to personalization it really became their yacht

After further negotiations, the choice was made to go for a yacht from Super Lauwersmeer. The numerous possibilities were explored more in-depth and they quickly came to a setup that combined the exterior and color scheme of the Pursuit of Happiness with the interior of the Yanos. Their additional wishes could also be incorporated, so that it would truly become their ship.

Perplexed by the design

From the enlarged bathroom to the longroof, and from the shortened swim platform to the lockable gates for the dog leading to the side decks and the aft deck: Super Lauwersmeer incorporated them all, which left Patrick and Dominique astonished. Even details like black faucets and dark glass in the windows were included in the design. They couldn't wait to start the construction; all that was needed at that stage was a signature under the contract.

The signature followed in September 2022. Bastiaan came out to Antwerp for this occasion. Construction began in early 2023, followed by the launch in July 2024. Throughout the whole process, Super Lauwersmeer closely involved Patrick and Dominique. Photos and videos were sent weekly. They were always welcome at the shipyard. The quick follow-up ensured that additional wishes could still be incorporated. Patrick and Dominique were impressed with how quickly Bastiaan and Louis responded in this respect.

Additional wishes incorporated

A remote control to moor the yacht from the side deck, a spud pole to anchor at the touch of a button, and air conditioning to keep the temperature on board comfortable: these are all adjustments that were made during the construction process. The first sailing hours have now been completed and they are extremely happy in every respect. Super Lauwersmeer has once again made a watersport dream come true.

On their dream yacht, the name Cuba Libre is prominently displayed, the drink that mixes cola with a dash of dark rum and lime juice. Their favorite cocktail. This name also stands for freedom. And whether they are sailing in Norway, France, or Germany, they can pronounce this name well all over the world, which was an important factor when choosing it. For now, the Cuba Libre will be a sailing highlight in the Netherlands, and you may bump into Patrick and Dominique on the Frisian lakes, the Wadden Sea, the IJsselmeer, or in Zeeland.

Showpiece at Hiswa

The Cuba Libre will serve as a ‘calling card’ for Super Lauwersmeer at Hiswa in Lelystad from August 28 to September 1. Anyone who wants to take a look on board for inspiration is welcome. After the fair, the journey to the home port in Tholen will go via Amsterdam and Dordrecht. And then on to wonderful journeys, beautiful memories, and unforgettable experiences.