There are a few reasons why Chris Perinchief views his carwash as probably the best in the world.

For customers, there is the opportunity to relax on one of the repurposed bus seats that act as an outdoor waiting area — facing out on a panoramic view across St George’s Harbour.

Those who wish to brush up their golfing skills can use their waiting time to take some practice shots on rough ground nearby, either with their own golf clubs or borrowing one from Mr Perinchief’s collection. He has a few old golf balls.

Or customers can bring down a fishing line and try a spot of fishing as they wait.

Meanwhile, Mr Perinchief will clean, vacuum and wax customers’ cars under a purpose-built wooden porch forecourt adjoining an old shipping container that acts as his office and storage room.

It is a year since he set up his permanent carwash location at Ship’s Wharf, on St David’s Road, Southside. At the time all he had was a bucket of cleaning products, a gazebo shelter and a determination and drive to make his enterprise succeed.

The 20ft shipping container that is now his office and resting area was salvaged from the dump. Mr Perinchief repaired the holes in its roof and sides and repainted it.

On the day The Royal Gazette visited the carwash, on its first anniversary, the view of the harbour from the customer seating — that was salvaged from an old bus at the dump — included sight of a superyacht belonging to the seventh richest man in the world.

Shine on Time Carwash has its own grandeur, and it comes from the dedication and attitude of owner-operator Mr Perinchief.

A year after setting up in a permanent location, he has given thanks to the journey that has seen him progress from a mobile carwash enterprise to his present set-up, which includes a 330-gallon water tank, power-wash, vacuum and steam-cleaning equipment.

Meeting Mr Perinchief, it quickly becomes evident that his success is all about attitude.

He has a positive “can-do” philosophy that is infectious and potent. Having started in business with virtually nothing a year ago, I ask if he ever doubted it would work out.

“I never focus on bad things, I just said I’m going to make it happen. For me it was a no-fail zone,” he said.

His son is part of his motivation to succeed. Being featured in The Royal Gazette when he set up at Southside a year ago acted as a further spur to make the enterprise work.

His biggest single outlay during the past year was for the construction of a sturdy wooden porch, an addition he describes as a blessing.

“I started out with a tarpaulin,” he said, explaining how it took half-an-hour each morning to erect the temporary shelter, which was vulnerable on windy days.

The improvements have come “one step at a time”, and the number of customers that stop by has steadily increased.

“When I was mobile I used to get two a week, and sometimes none,” he said. Today things are far busier. He produces a thick folder of customer receipts.

“I have a bunch of regulars, they are people in the area, and some from the police station.” The Southside Police Station is directly opposite the carwash on St David’s Road.

He gives a 50 per cent discount to seniors. Explaining the motivation to do so, he said: “My mother always instilled in me to give back to the community. And it is great to talk to the seniors and they enjoy the service.”

The carwash is the only one in the East End, and many customers have told Mr Perinchief they appreciate the ease of popping in to get their car cleaned, rather than have to drive to Hamilton and Pembroke.

The carwash is on land overseen by Bermuda Land Development Corporation, which last year gave him permission to use a 60 sq ft plot for the business.

He is grateful for their continuing support. Mr Perinchief marked the first anniversary celebration of the carwash with a thank you event and free food for customers, neighbours and friends. He is looking forward to celebrating many more anniversaries as the business grows.

His initiatives in the past year have included issuing customers with in-car calendars so they can keep track of their carwash appointments.

He also aims to ensure each customer gets friendly and exceptional service.

“When people drive away after having their car washed, I want them to feel good, and to feel they have had one-on-one, human interaction.

“I’d like to thank my customers for their support, and the regular ones for their loyalty.”

Mr Perinchief feels he has become part of the local, mutually supportive community of neighbours and businesses.

When asked if he had a message for others who might consider starting a business from scratch, he said: “I tell the kids, never give up. If you believe in something you can make it happen.”

Surveying his carwash set-up and the view of the harbour, he added: “Just being here is a joy.”

Shine on Time Carwash is regularly open Wednesday to Sunday each week. Call 516-7860 or 516-9574