Nice find! I love the rough texture of the wood and the sand. I'd suggest some contrast and saturation boosts, as well as perhaps taking the shot from a kneeling position and from a bit farther back, so as to capture the whole mast.
I like the darkness that everyone else is complaining to you about. I think it sets a somber mood, appropriate to your subject. It's also pleasant to look at, more soothing than high contrast. 7
This is a really nice photo, but the contrast seems a bit dull. I think this photo could be a ribboner if there was more contrast and vibrant colors. Not something I am too good at, but it seems that those high contrast/vibrant colors are taking the top numbers recently.