In 2018, we launched Hut 62, our bespoke boat hire service.  Our hire company was formerly part of our long-established family business, Bennett Boatyard.  The businesses are owned by us, Dan and Robyn.  Both born in Scilly, we left to complete further education on the mainland but a mutual love of island life pulled us back to make Bryher our family home.  We have three young sons who love spending time on the water as much as we do.

The Boatyard was originally established by Dan’s father, Keith.  A renowned boatbuilder, building over 200 boats, many of which can still be seen in Scilly today, Keith began hiring boats on a small scale from Green Bay in 1962. We love the family history and the fact we can continue to do this today. 

Which one activity would you say you enjoy most about what you offer? 

Our hire fleet is made of motorboats, sailing boats, kayaks, SUPs and pedalboards.  We build many of the hire boats by hand ourselves in the winter months.  The designs are simple, easy-to-use boats, chosen to suit island life - pottering between islands, landing on beaches and jumping out to explore new shores.

How does living on the Isles of Scilly and your surroundings inspire you? 

Living in Scilly, it’s hard not to be inspired by and drawn to the sea.  We are surrounded by clear waters that sparkle in the sunshine.  The very nature of island living determines our reliance on boats.  The need to travel between the islands to access essential holiday services, like the perfect shell seeking spot or an epic cream tea, means we have expanded our fleet to offer a wide range of craft to suit all abilities.

How big is the team and what would a ‘typical’ day look like at Hut 62? 

In the summer months we are joined by a small team of carefully chosen staff to help us run the boat hire.  We hire from Bryher, Tresco and St. Martin’s so our mornings can see us towing boats and watersport equipment between the islands.  We meet our customers on the nearest beach to their accommodation, give them instruction and set them off for a brilliant day of on-the-water adventure.  All of our equipment is fitted with a GPS tracker so that we can keep an eye on everyone throughout the day and, if anyone needs assistance, we know exactly where they are and can head straight to them.

Describe to us your perfect day on Scilly? 

Our favourite Scilly days are the ones when the tide is high, the sky is blue and there is a gentle breeze.  We pack a picnic, pile into a boat and head out on the water.  We love cruising between the islands, spotting seals and occasionally dolphins along the way.  We look for an empty beach (always lots to choose from, even in the height of summer), and set up camp.  Towels out, digging in the sand, cold water swims in the sea and an endless stream of snacks for our boys!  Heading home with sun-kissed, salty skin.