This work was painted in the summer of 1910 when Fergusson and fellow colourist S.J. Peploe stayed at Royan on the west coast of France. Peploe had moved to Paris with his family in the same year, while Fergusson had lived in Paris since 1907. The two artists often worked together and this was the first summer they spent together in France. The years Fergusson spent in France had a great impact on his style. He mixed with other avant-garde artists and was able to see the latest paintings by Picasso, Matisse and Derain. As a result his palette had become fresher and brighter and in this painting he has emphasised geometric shapes, such as the sails and outlines of the boats.