This is what I was expecting to see more of in this challenge. There is a simplicity and elegance to this shot. The gray scale of the water and background also add to it's mystical quality. Some slight focus issues at the back of the boat.
Another shot where the birds make the image - boats and birds seem inextricably tied. The placement of the foreground/lead bird is perfect for this composition.
I love the fading background and the processing is effective. I even like the choice of border! The single bird in the left corner MAKES this shot for me! *7*