MERAKI: To do something with creativity and love

In the face of overwhelming odds and financial constraints, Keith Oliver, an ordinary individual with an extraordinary dream, embarks on an epic journey of determination and resilience. Driven by an unwavering passion, he dedicate countless hours to constructing a 19ft boat within the confines of a makeshift tent, defying scepticism, and doubters at every turn.
As the project progresses of a 24month period and the seasons pass, setbacks and challenges threaten to derail his ambitious endeavour. The burden of inflation, cost of living crisis and dwindling funds casts a shadow of doubt, pushing the dream of sailing across the Atlantic seemingly out of reach. Yet, fuelled by sheer perseverance and a refusal to succumb to adversity, Keith digs deep and presses on, finding inspiration in the face of adversity.
With each setback overcome and every obstacle conquered, Meraki takes shape as a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Finally, against all odds, the day arrives when Keith, an everyman sets sail into the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Through storms and calms, highs, and lows, he navigates the unforgiving waters with courage and determination, drawing strength from the journey itself.
As the distant shores of Antigua come into view, Keith realises that the true measure of his journey lies not only in reaching the destination but in the profound transformation that occurred along the way.
His story is of triumph over adversity, of chasing dreams against all odds, and of the extraordinary power that lies within the human spirit to defy impossibility and conquer the unknown.
This is Keith’s journey.

[@danielkerryann]

What a fantastic story, I absolutely loved this. People often paint this kind of adventure as a mid-life crisis, but for most of us, we put our dreams on a shelf for the sake a family, kids, mortgages, and careers. It's only when you get to 50ish that the kids are no longer dependent, we have the necessary funds, can afford the time to train, can negotiate a career break, and so on. I was told the average age of an Ironman UK entrant is 46, which is a direct reflection of this. We're not having a crisis, we've been liberated :-)

[@supsurfbike6529]

It's wonderful to hear how inspired you have been by Keiths story. Thank you for the wonderful review.

[@JohnBounds-kt1zm]

Just building that boat in your "spare time" was an amazing story but then having the crazy idea of sailing it single handed across the Atlantic borders on lunacy😉 or bravery . Not sure which one. Phenomenal achievement Keith, well documented by a really great film. Really inspiring stuff

[@nrgdigital818]

John it's great to hear you are inspired by Kieths journey. I guess sometimes you have to be a little crazy to achieve your dreams. 😀

[@GaryBickley]

Keith, a truly amazing achievement. To build then sail your wee boat across the Atlantic. Enjoyed every minute of the film, was choked up myself at the end! Congratulations sir.

[@GaryBickley]

Hopefully you have covered your costs now if not, why not start a go fund me or something, I'm sure the sailing community would be happy to chuck a few quid in to help you out. The film was worth a tenner alone!!

[@donaldklapproth8091]

As a former but now sailor retired on the hard, I congratulate you on the entire building of thar cool interesting sailboat. I'd never had those building qualifications or abilities. I'm just happy for you following your dreams. As we age ,I never wanted to look back and say , "Sure, wish I'd gone and completed that dream. Extremely enjoyed your video! FWCS fair winds ca..... ⛵️ ⛵️

[@julesmoto9022]

Fantastic effort and achievement mate and greetings from Sydney Australia?

[@markarmitage8376]

What a fabulous achievement. I rather suspect you have no idea how many middle aged blokes watching this are currently doffing our collective caps in admiration for what you have achieved. Take a bow Sir. I should cut the grass now... or shall I wash the car... Hmm,

[@nrgdigital818]

😆😆😆 Perhaps the inspiration is sinking and thoughts of great adventures ahead will sink in.

[@PN_48]

Great film! Sad when wanting to realise a dream is downplayed as a “mid life crisis”, but well done getting it all finished👍

[@highvibe4839]

Mmm indeed, not sure if her visits to the warehouse were not filmed, or she chose to stay away from his dream project completely, she wasn’t on any dock to say hello or goodbye, quite sad really, cheers to his sister for supporting. It really was a big accomplishment from go to wo. 🎉⛵️

[@mack8488]

How manny women would have said NO! She is maybe scared?....dont judge to harshly.

[@PN_48]

@@mack8488Well then, any spouse that unreasonably says “no” isn’t really a good partner, are they. A lot of folks have dreams that get squashed by life, and it’s great to see a guy really crack on with his dream and get it done.

[@JimLongCO]

​@@mack8488Nope. Either say "no" or support him. But don't do the passive aggression bs

[@mack8488]

@@JimLongCO if you saw the whole thing maybe you saw it was not smooth sailing for him...not the building not the costs not running a family...in the end i was getting sick of his moaning and doubts...i thought why ever in hell did you do this and you will never do it again. I know a channel of an canadian guy who build a small boat an crossed several oceans several times....this guy doesnt moan because he is build for that life...i mean almost crying cause he cant be with his family with christmas!!! Dont go then if you cant handle it...🤷

[@martinskugga9406]

Such a good documentary. Very inspiring not only for sailing but for adventure and life in general. Cant believe i just found it on youtube, it deserves bigger screens :)

[@motorcityboatwerks]

WOW! REAL Boat Building! REAL Motivation! Excellent story telling and what a testament to determination and ambition. 😁👍👍 I love it !❤

[@nrgdigital818]

Thank you for the wonderful comment and great that you have been inspired by the story.

[@intelligentnature]

Amazing example of tenacity, determination, passion, principles and love! Kieth your a legend while also being a great example to everyone of how much people can achieve. Congratulations Kieth your a star!

[@nrgdigital818]

Thank you for taking the time to comment and great to hear you are inspired by Keiths journey.

[@johncowley4387]

@@nrgdigital818 hi are you related to kieth i would love to meet him i had simular intrests but only sailed med from uk Kind regards John c

[@JanWaterhouse-j7x]

Oh my goodness what an amazing achievement, not only to build the boat yourself, but then to finish 3rd, incredible.

[@JohnJohn-cu7nk]

Nice to see when you have a dream those that love you got behind you.Well done to your Sister, Daughter and Friends.Sell the house and get a bigger boat 🎉😊

[@supsurfbike6529]

Love the sell the house commment!! and also that you where inspired by the film.

[@7times7seas]

Aye

[@georgemarris]

Well done Keith , no small thing . Live life . Do what you say you’re going to do . That’s you . And thank you for sharing the whole adventure in such a modest manner . Respect .

[@ERo1972]

What an inspiring story. Well done Keith, you are a bloody legend. Love from Melbourne Australia. ❤

[@peterlucas8465]

Congratulations, Keith. Wonderful accomplishment. From a fair weather sailor in San Diego, California. And the film producer did a great job as well.

[@supsurfbike6529]

Thankyou Peter

[@kaddeshi]

What a. stunning story, a stunning documentary, and an inspiration to the rest of us. Right up there with the 'everyday' adventure spirit of Hubert Wilkins and Don McIntyre. Keith - you put your heart, soul, elbow grease and backbone into this. I'm grateful that you have shared your values, your triumphs and adversities. Proof for all of us that anyone, even an ordinary bloke with a big idea, a backyard and a boat can build the future. Well done mate. Thank you.

[@supsurfbike6529]

Thank you for the wonderful review! so great that you are inspired by Keiths story.

[@UKPete]

Well done Keith, fantastic achievement and very inspirational. Thanks for making and sharing this film really well done!. 🏅👍

[@michaelstern864]

A very, very well made film. Wonderfully shot and edited. And Keith deserves all the accolades he is getting for his tenacity and courage. Definitely a guy you want to sit down with and have pint or two. But am I the only one who felt that his wife's absence as the project matured was a glaring hole? In her first interviews, she seemed like she was supporting this efforts; then it seemed to turn to bemused indulgence. And in her last interview she something like "well he's going to do it, so he might as well come back alive". Then we don't see her again; not when the boat is finished, when the boat is launched or even when he departs. At that point, I would have been surprised to see her in Antigua for his arrival. Too emotional for her? Or did something happen in their relationship? Keith doesn't mention her during the voyage, only saying how much he misses "the family". Wondering if the filmmaker didn't include anything about that in order to not distract from the adventure. But for me, if this quest had hurt or destroyed his marriage and he went ahead with it anyway, that makes it an even more compelling story.

[@tobygoessailing]

I had the same thought i.e. the absence of his wife at the end is very striking. Amazing project & documentary. But did it come at a terrible price to the family? Hope for all their sakes that it worked out OK.

[@markbates713]

Bitter sweet. The challange Keith set for himself was in the end a very tough one and I think the build may have been tougher than the sail itself. A great personal achievement. Good support from friends, daughter and sister. A lonely journey in a way that wasn’t without heavy sacrifice and I felt that showed at the end. Better to have done than to be saying what if??….. all day long!

[@marnie9153]

You are awesome. Thank you soo much 4 being brave enough 2 take a chance on your dreams... You have the guts to live your dreams before it's too late...those that call it a "mid life crisis" I find insulting & disrespectful & maybe it's because those people don't have the guts to live their own dreams & are threatened by you living your dreams & showing them up. You are shining your light & giving others permission to do the same!!

[@LifeOnTheHulls]

Congratulations Keith, what a wonderful achievement, your passion and tenacity to complete the build, then to sail it is simply brilliant. Great documentary, inspirational stuff, love it mate . Rossco

[@robertgold2643]

So well done, the boat the voyage and the film. Thanks for sharing your journey 🙏

[@rayleather8005]

What an amazing adventure from the start , to build your wonderful little ship in your back garden then sail it to a brilliant 3rd place in a race across the Atlantic by yourself is the stuff of dreams, very well done sir and a great film documenting the whole thing is the icing on the cake, also a big thank you to Don McIntyre for planting the seeds of true adventure in the minds of the few brave enough to take it on

[@Sailing50]

Amazing Keith, Well done - best thing on KZbin I've ever seen. What happens to the boat now?

[@markpearce447]

Mate, this shows that to achieve a dream you have to have dedication, commitment and passion. What a powerful story and great film production! Huge congrats on your achievement, truly impressive 🙌🏻

[@willmv4139]

What an epic story of Keith, family and friends! Awesome video footage and editing, really inspiring, thank you.

[@nrgdigital818]

Thank you for the wonderful comment.

[@SailorGerry]

I tip my hat to you sir! A wonderful build and journey. And kudos to your wife also, for her patience & understanding. Thank you very much for sharing this adventure with all of us.

[@kwitee]

Μεράκι : Gumption Well done that man. To sail over all the difficulties, to overcome, to persevere. You have earned your Ithaca, hope it brings you joy.

[@jacobernst3753]

Beautiful and inspiring! Thank You😊

[@davidbgraham461]

Congratulations , Keith. A Herculean task approached like a real man !!

[@davidsadler4006]

Fantastic film Rob, really showed how it really was. Well done Keith Oliver, time for another adventure!?

[@supsurfbike6529]

Your contribution to the film and to Keiths journey was wonderful.

[@chrisnegele6875]

Excellent documentary and an excellent sail by Keith what an accomplishment.

[@lydiarowe491]

Building this boat to sailing a challenging crossing is something that is life changing..well done Keith for giving it a go to prove to yourself that it could be done..self doubt maybe ..to get to the destination without too many dramas is phenomenal…you might have inspired others to give it a go.

[@boatbuilderjon5636]

found this from a recommend from Sailing Fair Isle. An inspiring video full of humanity and raw honesty. Thank you.

[@thisgarbageiscoralgable.88]

OUTSTANDING ! What an inspirational story about grit and determination....and amazing adventures. Calm seas and following winds... Legendary. 😎

[@bryanrowell4793]

Well done brother! There’s nothing out there better than sailing solo. Thanks for sharing your journey.🤙🏽

[@thevisionaries9128]

Keith, the word is very over-used these days but, you are a legend. Well done. You’re a gent too by the looks of it. Great story, great adventure and a great inspiration to the rest of us. Thanks for sharing your story. Where to next?!

[@ufukozbir649]

Unbelievable what yoıu achieved Keith.. Very inspiring indeed👏👏👏

[@74quo]

Very well done. Always follow your dream,life is so short. It was just a short time out of your life. Around the world next👍😉

[@supsurfbike6529]

It is wonderful that you feel inspired by watching the film. Thank you for you comment.

[@mackcarson6729]

Take note of this above. Life IS Definitely Shorter and Quicker than you think. From an 83 yr old who's last 50 yrs felt like 5. Enjoy it while you got it mate. I lost my Depth of field in eyes several yrs ago. Shorebound now. Knees went 2 or 3 yrs ago. Electric chair for stairs and Walking stick. REALLY.... Enjoy what you all got.B4 it disappears, I can remember my first sail in a 17ft dinghy. at 5 yrs old 1946. Memory fine. Body.... Worn out but loved every minute of it. Make sure you do the same with yours.

[@reloadncharge9907]

Awesome….a Donald Crowhurst story with an amazing ending! Thanks, Andrew

[@worikben4168]

Enjoyed seeing how you made your dream come true. Very nice how this was filmed and how you took me on your journey. You're a legend..

[@man-with-handle]

A wonderful and emotional journey Kieth. Your family and friends must be so proud of you. It's a great achievement Kieth and you did it all by yourself - Congratulations, you have much to be proud of.

[@MartinButler-x3h]

Amazing achievement mate, loved following your journey in real time and even better being able to see you living your dream!

[@alandelmas1236]

You are more likely to regret the things you didn’t do than the things you did so well done on such inspiring achievement!

[@oldscooldinghybuoys]

Not only a fabulous adventure but a wonderful story and a beautifully produced video ! 🤙😊💪👏

[@wesabsolom5837]

Tremendous achievement Keith, well done. Thanks for sharing this incredible journey.

[@stephenclark9536]

Awesome video and log of your journey Skip. Very proud of you mate.

[@TheAngelhard]

What an amazing story, great film, thanks a lot for letting us participating. Great how you captured all the emotions. Nice. I am deeply impressed.

[@nrgdigital818]

Thank you for the wonderful feedback.

[@RC60669]

A Grand Achievement and wonderful down to earth storytelling.. I was nervous and excited with you ..😇.. as you saw the harbour in sight!😅 Thank you so much for all your hard work and your daring 👌 😉🙉😲😊 Also appreciate the support you received from family, friends and your community - especially your lovely sister. Your family must be so proud of you! ❤🤘🤙👍👏💙 Wishing you the very best for your future 🤞🤞 Cheers from Rob in Thailand 🙏🙏

[@nrgdigital818]

Thank you for the wonderful encouragement. I hope you are inspired to go on adventures.

[@fernandocarvalhoborges9139]

Indeed an excellent film and story! Congrats Keith!!!

[@supsurfbike6529]

Thank you for the kind review and it's you enjoyed the film.

[@4578simonhi]

This is what KZbin was made for. Incredible story, well done Keith what an amazing thing to have achieved. Great little movie and amazing boat, the human spirit is a wonderful thing to behold.

[@nrgdigital818]

It's wonderful that you enjoyed and was inspired by the film.

[@jordillo777]

What a great story! Thank you, Keith, for taking us on this journey with you!

[@Ykaris11]

Inspiration to all of us who wants to go out to the sea! Well done 🎉

[@bigkevmatthews9134]

That was bloody brilliant. Incredible, just incredible. Thanks for sharing.

[@benoitmatton8617]

Beautiful Story ! Thanks for sharing . Very well done 😊👍✌

[@gazzastewart]

Well done Keith, great achievements. Going from boat builder to solo Atlantic sailor made for some great youtube viewing. Top effort indeed

[@nrgdigital818]

Thank you

[@donieherraghty719]

Bravo Keith, what a wonderful achievement to build, plan and complete such an amazing voyage. Really enjoyed the documentary. Congratulations on such an incredible achievement

[@Itssmial_Ova]

Congratulations, Wonderful adventure and very good production. Inspiring stuff.

[@stevet9184]

AMAZING 🤙🏻... Congratulations on a massive achievement 👏... The sea swim 😮 the storm 😮 scary stuff!! Well done to all involved 👍

[@TatyanaSoboleva-h3l]

Congrats for the very positive end of this 2 years story and good luck for your next dream, Keith!!! Thanks for sharing it ❤

[@oliverwhite3624]

Remarkable..... Well done...... There's hope for the rest of us mere mortals...

[@jiefflerenard1228]

I love the good humor and cheerfulness of Keith and is Brits friends, it lights up the day. I am retired with some spare time I would have loved to help, funny nobody did, maybe like a kid wanting to learn trading work for some free sailing in the future. What an adventure anyway.Thank you for your honesty and sharing it with us.

[@ad_ventures369]

What an amazing movie and so inspirational you are sir! Chapeau!

[@mhicks80]

Wow! Absolutely incredible journey, would love to do this, hats off Sir, absolute legend!

[@robhavill]

Really enjoyed the film, Keith. A lot of work would have gone into this and it shows! Very well done to all involved.

[@steman9206]

impressive, man you made it!

[@AllanDrJones]

A "Well done!" goes out to both sailor and filmmaker! I am currently on a very similar journey and needed this after having one of the bad days that frequently occur in "hastag boatlife"... Very inspiring!

[@sarahwilson5820]

Amazing journey, physically, mentally and emotionally. Congratulations to you and the team. "It's the time of your life so live it well".

[@jeffspoehr1757]

Great story, what an accomplishment. And, I love the Fisherman's Friends at the end!

[@brucelyle5136]

Thanks so much the time on the boat even in the lows is what I’m looking forward to one day. Must get back to sanding.

[@spickspan5718]

Thanks for the emotions we felt through your journey...I really enjoyed this ♥️

[@Michael-Hein]

Such a great film. It took me emotional. I am sitting with tears in my eyes. Thank you so much.

[@zizlog_sound]

Well done Keith - not only for building the boat and racing across the Atlantic but also for finishing in 3rd place! Anyone calling this midlife crisis just got it all backwards. Try doing anything of that when you are in a crisis. I as a partner would have helped building the boat. That’s much more family time than having cuppa together.

[@johneden-green7397]

Wow! Knowing how hard you work in your day job it was an amazing achievement just to build the boat! A tribute not only to you Keith, but also to family and loved ones who must have had similar emotions to the ones you had in the middle of the Atlantic. I’m sure you are ALL much stronger after the experience. Just don’t try it again!!😀😀

[@paulyneskipsey]

Congratulations on having the tenacity to stick with it and complete the challenge you set yourself. I sailed across the Atlantic it took us 30 days from Lanzarote to Grenada. Bravo all solo sailors are legends

[@lcdemack]

Wonderful film. Fantastic accomplishment. Congrats Keith! 👏👏👏

[@MatthewWillis-f8r]

Well done Keith, loved the adventure, loved the film.

[@memyselfandi9365]

Greetings from Australia. That was great mate, you have a lot of courage and perseverance well done.

[@caroline4572]

What a brilliant film :)

[@johnleebold8894]

Congratulations Kieth . great achievement and shout out to loving family support for supporting your build and journey . Heart felt thanks for sharing your posting your inspiring efforts Cheers and all the best going forward John . Perth . Australia .

[@rob.maramé]

Wonderful adventure and achievement. The staying power, courage and tenacity needed to undertake and succeed in such an endeavour should not be underestimated

[@timj_uk1460]

Legend.. Amazing life adventure, honest lesson to all us armchair dreamers! 👏👏👏👏👏🍻

[@mauroceresa1219]

What an amazing adventure Keith. From sheet 1 to Antigua done by your own, with friends and family support. This is a story to tell about determination, focus that are driving human kind to incredible achievement. Very inspiring.

[@prawn.dealer]

So grateful for documenting this. Loved every minute of it. Congratulations, I've always dreamed of something like this, inspiring to see it made a reality. I Cant imagine the emotions through that whole journey. Epic film!

[@supsurfbike6529]

Wonderful to hear you are inspired by the film.

[@ramabamaboomboom]

Great movie!! Thank you.

[@davidnichols147]

Bravo Keith, your a LEGEND and a INSPIRATION to us ALL!

[@andreasrapp19]

Great job! And a very nice film about doing… showing what more there is then just buildning and sailing a boat. recognize the thoughts .. (building in this now the shed in the garden for the dream sailboat) 😊

[@bradgreene3340]

Thank you for making this inspiring film and congrats to Keith on staying the course. It's a very small group that can say they crossed the Atlantic in a 5.8m boat.

[@stephenconway4976]

A hell of a journey, in every sense. Congratulations Keith & family. Inspiring stuff.

[@26N80W]

Grit and determination from beginning to end. Well done. Good film.

[@kawakarma]

Brilliant! Loved every moment of watching your build and journey. Also, really appreciated your humble yet intrepid approach.👊

[@nigelseymour5159]

Fabulous! Well done Kieth, what an amazing achievement.

[@praxispm]

Great story - superb cinematography - I thoroughly enjoyed it all.

[@stevenscott9750]

Amazing well done. 🏅

[@beorbeorian150]

Some men are the type that finish what they started. Great job!!

[@johndavie3924]

Absolutely loved this. You are an inspiration!

[@seashepherds4959]

Anyone can sail or build a boat but not anyone can look at a challenge so big they have doubts they will achieve it and face adversity, failure and fear and overcome it and when they do...THAT is something not anyone can do and you did it. Meraki Inspired.

[@MatthewWright-y9t]

Makes me feel like the dream is possible. Thanks and well done

[@suek3898]

Wonderful accomplishment and film!

[@mylamsloan3338]

A good watch. Well done and great achievement

[@APXR650]

What an amazing film, I don’t even know where to start with this comment. Probably the best thing I’ve watch on here for a while. So inspiring! I’m 45 and starting to think about my next adventure and what I want to achieve. Good on you mate!

[@nrgdigital818]

Go follow your dreams and adventures.

[@APXR650]

Trust me I try, but work and life sometimes gets in the way

[@loediloedi]

What a great documentary, i can only say RESPECT!

[@nrgdigital818]

thank you 😀

[@ivandale-bc]

Congratulations Keith. I, like you and many more have these dreams. I thoroughly enjoyed following your story. Well done for seeing it through and for sailing across the Atlantic Ocean 🌊 Brilliant 👏👏👏👏

[@GRANMotherH3N]

Loved every minute. Well done and great documentary of your journey. Question, how do the boats get home?

[@carolineb-p6i]

Keith’s came home on a container ship