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.
Пікірлер: 261
Great film! Sad when wanting to realise a dream is downplayed as a “mid life crisis”, but well done getting it all finished👍
@highvibe4839
28 күн бұрын
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. 🎉⛵️
@WheeledHomeWisdom
27 күн бұрын
This was the penny that dropped moment for me!
@mack8488
19 күн бұрын
How manny women would have said NO! She is maybe scared?....dont judge to harshly.
@PN_48
17 күн бұрын
@@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.
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.
The very Best of British ! Thank You Sir. Enough Respect and One Love. ☝️♥️✌️🌍🙏🇭🇲🇿🇦
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
26 күн бұрын
😆😆😆 Perhaps the inspiration is sinking and thoughts of great adventures ahead will sink in.
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
Ай бұрын
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
21 күн бұрын
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
21 күн бұрын
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
18 күн бұрын
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
Күн бұрын
Fantastic effort and achievement mate and greetings from Sydney Australia?
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
29 күн бұрын
Love the sell the house commment!! and also that you where inspired by the film.
@7times7seas
13 күн бұрын
Aye
Oh my goodness what an amazing achievement, not only to build the boat yourself, but then to finish 3rd, incredible.
WOW! REAL Boat Building! REAL Motivation! Excellent story telling and what a testament to determination and ambition. 😁👍👍 I love it !❤
@nrgdigital818
Ай бұрын
Thank you for the wonderful comment and great that you have been inspired by the story.
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.
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.
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
26 күн бұрын
Thank you for the wonderful encouragement. I hope you are inspired to go on adventures.
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
Ай бұрын
Thank you for taking the time to comment and great to hear you are inspired by Keiths journey.
@johncowley4387
8 күн бұрын
@@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
Congratulations, Keith. Wonderful accomplishment. From a fair weather sailor in San Diego, California. And the film producer did a great job as well.
@supsurfbike6529
Ай бұрын
Thankyou Peter
What an inspiring story. Well done Keith, you are a bloody legend. Love from Melbourne Australia. ❤
Well done Keith, fantastic achievement and very inspirational. Thanks for making and sharing this film really well done!. 🏅👍
Fantastic film Rob, really showed how it really was. Well done Keith Oliver, time for another adventure!?
@supsurfbike6529
Ай бұрын
Your contribution to the film and to Keiths journey was wonderful.
Inspiration to all of us who wants to go out to the sea! Well done 🎉
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 .
So well done, the boat the voyage and the film. Thanks for sharing your journey 🙏
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.
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.
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
Ай бұрын
Thank you for the wonderful review! so great that you are inspired by Keiths story.
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!!
Excellent documentary and an excellent sail by Keith what an accomplishment.
found this from a recommend from Sailing Fair Isle. An inspiring video full of humanity and raw honesty. Thank you.
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 .
Fab fab fab. Loved it. Inspirational. Gave me the kick up the ass I needed, trying to get back racing a Mini Challenge car. Thank you.❤❤ Can I put Maraki on the car?
Not only a fabulous adventure but a wonderful story and a beautifully produced video ! 🤙😊💪👏
Awesome….a Donald Crowhurst story with an amazing ending! Thanks, Andrew
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 🙌🏻
What an Absolutely Inspirational Man !! Well Done Keith 🎉this is the most courageous thing I’ve seen in A very long time ! Amazing 🎉congratulations on living your a dream 🤍🤍🤍🫶🫶🫶🎉
Well done brother! There’s nothing out there better than sailing solo. Thanks for sharing your journey.🤙🏽
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
29 күн бұрын
It is wonderful that you feel inspired by watching the film. Thank you for you comment.
@mackcarson6729
8 күн бұрын
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.
Congrats for the very positive end of this 2 years story and good luck for your next dream, Keith!!! Thanks for sharing it ❤
Well Done > Memories last forever , Life's not a rehearsal . ENJOY .... From an old kiwi single hander , Now youv got the bug , Its hard to stop .
What a great story! Thank you, Keith, for taking us on this journey with you!
AMAZING 🤙🏻... Congratulations on a massive achievement 👏... The sea swim 😮 the storm 😮 scary stuff!! Well done to all involved 👍
Awesome video and log of your journey Skip. Very proud of you mate.
Indeed an excellent film and story! Congrats Keith!!!
@supsurfbike6529
Ай бұрын
Thank you for the kind review and it's you enjoyed the film.
Beautiful Story ! Thanks for sharing . Very well done 😊👍✌
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
Makes me feel like the dream is possible. Thanks and well done
Great movie!! Thank you.
Congratulations Keith from another weekend / vacation sailor from Austria - great documentation and video
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..
What a brilliant film :)
GREAT TRIP , U DONE A EXCELLENT JOB ! MY BOAT IS TWICE THE SIZE AND DONE THE WORLD IN AUSTRALIA AFTER 7 YEARS NOW ! U WILL GET ITCHY TO DO SOME OTHER TRIP AGAIN SOON .
Amazing achievement mate, loved following your journey in real time and even better being able to see you living your dream!
Congratulations, Wonderful adventure and very good production. Inspiring stuff.
Wow! Absolutely incredible journey, would love to do this, hats off Sir, absolute legend!
What an amazing movie and so inspirational you are sir! Chapeau!
Inspiring achievement, Keith!
Greetings from Australia. That was great mate, you have a lot of courage and perseverance well done.
Amazing well done. 🏅
That was bloody brilliant. Incredible, just incredible. Thanks for sharing.
Amazing story and fantastic video
OUTSTANDING ! What an inspirational story about grit and determination....and amazing adventures. Calm seas and following winds... Legendary. 😎
Really enjoyed the film, Keith. A lot of work would have gone into this and it shows! Very well done to all involved.
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.
What an epic story of Keith, family and friends! Awesome video footage and editing, really inspiring, thank you.
@nrgdigital818
26 күн бұрын
Thank you for the wonderful comment.
Bravo Keith, your a LEGEND and a INSPIRATION to us ALL!
That's an amazing achievement and a story well told. Congratulations Keith.
Wow! What a story, well done Keith!
Well done Keith, great achievements. Going from boat builder to solo Atlantic sailor made for some great youtube viewing. Top effort indeed
@nrgdigital818
26 күн бұрын
Thank you
Grit and determination from beginning to end. Well done. Good film.
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.
impressive, man you made it!
What a challenge. Those Transat 5.80s bob like a cork. Not for the faint hearted at all. Give me at least 25k tonne with encapsulated keel, then I could stomach it I think. But not solo. Keith and the others should be celebrated. Or put in therapy to find out why you would subject yourself to such torture. Well done sirs! And a great documentary on top of it. I'll never forget watching it.
Well done !!👍 from Steve in Australia
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!!😀😀
Well done Keith, loved the adventure, loved the film.
Great! Thank you for the upload. ❤
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
Ай бұрын
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.
A hell of a journey, in every sense. Congratulations Keith & family. Inspiring stuff.
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!
Beautiful and inspiring! Thank You😊
Legend.. Amazing life adventure, honest lesson to all us armchair dreamers! 👏👏👏👏👏🍻
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) 😊
Thanks for the emotions we felt through your journey...I really enjoyed this ♥️
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
Ай бұрын
Thank you for the wonderful feedback.
Absolutely brilliant. A HUGE well done!
Well done mate, truly an amazing job.
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.
what a fantastic Film and amazing achievement. Well done. not sure my wife would be so understanding
Beautiful story in every way. Thanks for the inspiration all the way from the east coast of Canada.
Wonderful film. Fantastic accomplishment. Congrats Keith! 👏👏👏
Remarkable..... Well done...... There's hope for the rest of us mere mortals...
Amazing Keith, Well done - best thing on KZread I've ever seen. What happens to the boat now?
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
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.
A good watch. Well done and great achievement
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
Ай бұрын
Go follow your dreams and adventures.
@APXR650
Ай бұрын
Trust me I try, but work and life sometimes gets in the way
What an awesome story to watch. I just bought a sailboat to chase my own similar calling. Life is too short to do otherwise.
Well done Keith incredible !
Man! What an effort! Well done! Congratulations! But try to win it next year;)
Meraki my friend.. greetings from Greece.. beautiful story.
@nrgdigital818
11 күн бұрын
Thank you very much! great that it inspired you.
Fabulous! Well done Kieth, what an amazing achievement.
Tremendous achievement Keith, well done. Thanks for sharing this incredible journey.
Such a great film. It took me emotional. I am sitting with tears in my eyes. Thank you so much.
Fantastic video and story of a man with a dream! Inspiring to watch you complete the race! Well done. I am 64 and sail an 18 foot sailboat on weekends in Canada. I cannot imagine crossing the Atlantic in my boat. The boat build and race were amazing to watch. Congratulations on your great accomplishment!