Monday, May 19, 2008

Two New Sunset Gondolas - Container

Our friends at Sunset Gondola took delivery of two beautiful gondolas today. About two months ago they ventured out to Venice to "make some deals, and buy some boats". They were wise to contact Roberto at Squero dei Rossi, and tell him they were coming. The folks at Squero dei Rossi gave Tim and Tyson the kind of hospitality and professionalism that they are known for. With the help of Roberto, Tim and Tyson were successful and managed to secure a dei Rossi gondola, and a Tramontin gondola. Today was the big day - the day to "splash them". After much anticipation, Tyson clipped the seal on the latch of the container. Tim did the honors of opening the doors. He mentioned something about the smell in the container, and I couldn't resist - I jumped up and smelled it for myself. It smelled a lot like a squero (that's a good thing, by the way). The gondolas were expertly "nested", one on top of the other, but offset just the right amount. The blue tarp that covered the opening gave everything a mystical glow. We were truly lucky to have Sean Antonioli on hand for the occasion. He came out this week to be in a friend's wedding - perfect timing as he was invaluable - from hoisting to baling. In the above shot, Sean discussed some of the hoisting details with shipyard staff...talking with his hands like a good Italian.

During the unloading process, I met Andrew McHardy and Eric Sjoberg - two of the most experienced gondoliers in Southern California.

4 comments:

DG Beat said...

Bravo Greg. The documentation was superb. I wish I could have been there to witness it. Great photos!

ADMIN said...

Congratulations on your new gondolas! I can't wait to see them in person.

Scott Reinard

Gondola Greg said...

Thanks for your compliments John. They mean a lot. Wish you'd been there - it would have been great to meet you in person.

Scott: I'll be sure to pass on your well-wishes to Tim and Tyson.

Anonymous said...

Hey Greg,

I really appreciate your blog entries, great stuff. I'm Tim's brother Kevin who lives in Folsom CA. I'm so happy for Tim and Tyson, now I just have to find a way to quit my job and start rowing full time :)

Kevin Reinard