Sea Journeys

A Short Adventure in February

2012-01-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

I have a three week break from work scheduled for February - and am looking forward to using my passport for a bit of traveling.

Where I'll be traveling is dependent on a bit of news that I'm hoping to get later today...

Finding wind, wave, and sunshine will certainly be part of the equation...

Voyage Countdown reset #2

2012-01-22T11:49:00.000-08:00

So...

I have the enviable position of having a client that likes my contribution very much...and with my current engagement scheduled to end on February 3rd - they have asked if I would be willing to take a 5th contract extension (till mid-to-late April).

I'm very much hoping to be able to join as crew on a boat in the ARC Europe 2012 (departing the BVI's around May 5th)

http://www.worldcruising.com/arceurope/event_info.aspx

http://www.worldcruising.com/arceurope/itinerary.aspx

Merchant Marine Training Resources

2012-01-18T17:28:00.001-08:00

This blog post is intended as a placeholder for interesting Merchant Marine training resources I may come across in the future:

http://hawsepipe.net/

Caribbean Destinations

2012-01-09T15:17:00.000-08:00

I'm compiling a list of links with information about the cruising destinations in the Caribbean - with a particular interest in the Bahamas...so this posting will be my placeholder for information that I find interesting:

http://www.sailblogs.com/member/svhermes/

http://capkool.tripod.com/islands.html

The Adventures of Tig & Serena

2011-11-26T10:56:00.001-08:00

The very entertaining blog of a sailing family:
http://www.tigandserena.com

Volvo Ocean Race - The First 40 Years

2011-11-11T07:11:00.001-08:00

Volvo Ocean Race: To the Ends of The Earth - The First 40 Years:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cp4ydArnzgc&feature=list_related&playnext=1&list=SL

Pacific Island Parks

2011-11-08T17:26:00.001-08:00

I came across this interesting site today:

http://pacificislandparks.com

Voyage Countdown Reset

2011-11-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

T-93 days and counting :)

Due to client needs, I've agreed to extend my current client engagement until Friday, February 3rd.

The benefit of that will be a firmer financial footing for my adventures next year.

S/V Ceol Mors

2011-10-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

Some great writing and photography by this sailing family: http://theceolmors.blogspot.com/

Interesting boat repair projects...

2011-10-08T09:54:00.001-07:00

Some very interesting boat repair projects here...

http://pimpmyboat.jamestowndistributors.com/

Japanese 'Noah's ark' Tsunami survival capsule

2011-10-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

Could the Japanse "Noah's ark" tsunami survival capsule be a lifeboat alternative?

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/sep/30/japanese-noahs-ark-disaster-capsule

2011-09-29 Some interesting new links

2011-09-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

Attainable Adventure Cursing
("The Offshore Voyaging Reference Site")
http://www.morganscloud.com/

The Salty Southeast Cruiser's Net
http://cruisersnet.net/

intheboatshed.net - Old boats, wooden boat building, repair and restoration
http://intheboatshed.net/

The blog of s/v Wee Happy, an Albin Vega Sailboat
http://weehappy.com

Zero to Cruising
http://www.zerotocruising.com/

Shore Sailor - Yachting news for power and sail
http://shoresailor.com/

Poem: Skipper Bound To A Desk

2011-09-23T23:46:00.000-07:00

A skipper at the helm of a desk

His thoughts range far ahead in time and space

When will he find the time to return to that place

He dreams of wind and wave

Yet efforts now will pave

The road to freedom

Reflecting on the here and now

Treacherous currents of tide and circumstance

The compass of his heart is true

Charts to that one particular harbor firmly etched in his mind

Over briny deep and weathered storm

His course made true

by Kelvin D. Meeks
September 24, 2011
...in the deserts of Arizona...far from wind and wave

Jimmy Buffett in Phoenix Oct 20th

2011-09-14T16:07:00.001-07:00

Jimmy Buffett is coming to Phoenix Thursday Oct 20th
http://www.ticketmaster.com/Jimmy-Buffett-tickets/artist/734667

Two-Way Satellite Communication with Global Coverage

2011-09-10T17:28:00.001-07:00

http://www.delorme.com/inreach/

Links to FREE (or Low Cost) Sailboat Opportunitities

2011-09-10T11:03:00.000-07:00

CarAngelMinistries-Boat Angel Outreach Center

http://donations.ebay.com/charity/charity.jsp?NP_ID=3516

Yahoo Group
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/freesailboats/

Extending your Wifi Reception Capabilities

2011-09-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

Here are some links to possibly useful resources and ideas on how you can extend your Wifi reception capabilities:

http://dsc.discovery.com/gear-gadgets/boost-your-wifi-signal-using-only-a-beer-can.html

http://www.usbwifi.orconhosting.net.nz/

Survival Food

2011-09-08T06:47:00.000-07:00

There are some interesting survival food products available for long-term storage on your boat - some good examples here:
http://www.thereadystore.com/

I would probably buy a box of the 3600 calorie bars (20 or 30 bars) - stow it in a locker - and then have some peace of mind in the event I was dis-masted and might need to drift for a few weeks.

http://www.thereadystore.com/mre/case-of-mre

http://www.thereadystore.com/mre/mre-entree-variety-pack-case-of-72

Of course, still need to solve the drinking water problem - but a Katadyn Survivor 06 or 35
hand-powered desalination pump would be part of my kit.

http://www.katadyn.com/usen/katadyn-products/products/katadynshopconnect/katadyn-desalinators-manual-survivors/katadyn-survivor-06/

http://www.katadyn.com/usen/katadyn-products/products/katadynshopconnect/katadyn-desalinators-manual-survivors/katadyn-survivor-35/

Ideally, my next boat will get aKatydyn Power Survivor 40E 12V desalinatior

http://shop.katadyn.com/product/155189/8013438/_/Katadyn_PowerSurvivor_40E12_V

A THINKING MAN’S GUIDE TO VOYAGES SOUTH

2011-08-29T16:51:00.001-07:00

A THINKING MAN’S GUIDE TO VOYAGES SOUTH

http://sail.vedamind.com/www_freecrusingguide/2011/07/24/a-thinking-mans-guide-to-voyages-souththe-many-facets-of-caribbean-cruising/

Today's Links

2011-08-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

I came across some interesting web sites last night...

An inspiring collection of travel stories...

Fleetwoods Circumnavigation - Jack Van Ommens Travels
http://www.cometosea.us

A very useful travel forum:
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/

The Sydney Morning Herald "Traveller" section:
http://www.smh.com.au/travel

The Rio de Janeiro City Guide for Gringos
http://www.gringo-rio.com/

The Sailing Yacht Talofa (the Samoan equivalent for Hawaiian "Aloha")
http://www.talofacaribbeansailing.com

Paul Lutus, Confessions of a Long-Distance Sailor

2011-07-30T11:25:00.000-07:00

Paul Lutus, Confessions of a Long-Distance Sailor
An account of an around-the-world solo sail in a 31-foot boat, 1988-1991
http://www.arachnoid.com/sailbook/index.html

Paul is also a prolific software developer, for example:

A Java short-wave weatherfax receiver/converter
http://www.arachnoid.com/JWX/index.html

My Sailing Firsts...

2011-07-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

As I started my adventure as a sailor - beginning with zero experience - I remember a few of my sailing "firsts". The memory of my evolution and growth as a sailor will always be punctuated by the time before and after these events:

The first night I slept aboard my ship
The first time leaving the dock - without crew to help
The first time setting the anchor
The first time spending the night afloat, relying upon my anchor to secure the ship
The first time sailing out of sight of land
The first overnight passage
The first sunset at sea
The first sunrise at sea
The first arrival at an island
The first arrival in a foreign port
The first bit of stormy weather encountered while at sea
The first time climbing the mast
The first time needing to dive under the boat to clear some flotsam from the rudder
The first encounter with a whale
The first encounter with dolphins dancing off my bow wave
The first encounter with sea lion pups
The first encounter with a micro-burst

Those moments and memories are precious "firsts". No matter where I am - or how busy I may be working on some project - opening those mental files can instantly transport me back to the deck of my ship...and I can smell the salty wind and waves...

Andrew Evans e-book on Singlehanded Sailing

2011-07-16T11:10:00.000-07:00

Great e-book by Andrew Evans
"Thoughts, Tips, Techniques & Tactics For Singlehanded Sailing"
http://vimeo.com/22630270

EscapeTheCity.org

2011-05-29T12:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.escapethecity.org/

Featured in a Bloomberg article:
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-05-26/ex-banker-wants-you-to-trade-wall-street-misery-for-mongolia.html

travelfish.org

2011-05-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

I happened to come across another useful site for Asian travel information
http://www.travelfish.org/

Voyage Countdown Reset - New Date: November 4, 2011

2011-05-07T23:49:00.000-07:00

Choices.

It all comes down to choices.

And so I've decided to accept a 3rd contract extension with my current client.

My new target is now November 4th, 2011 - and after that - I hope to take a break and do some sailing - or at least some traveling around the world for a bit.

I had a solid offer to take an assignment in Johannesburg, South Africa - but I've decided for the moment that continuing to run my successful consulting practice is really what I enjoy most.

The freedom to negotiate my own engagements, to be paid a wage that I negotiate, and to be paid for my actual effort - those are very strong positive features that I've grown to appreciate about running my business. I willingly accept the risks that my choices carry - and I likewise enjoy the rewards that those risks sometimes produce.

I still need to find a boat - but for the moment - I can just focus on the work at hand.

I had a thought last night as I was about to drift off to sleep...I wondered if there might be some presentation that I might assemble - to share with other cruisers some of the approaches I've found to generating monthly income through options trading. The next 6 months will be a good test of the strategies and I ideas I've been experimenting with the last few years. One of my goals after my 2004 voyage - and 2007 sabbatical in Mazatlan - was to find ways to generate a decent cruising budget - with somewhat limited risk - and minimal oversight/management of my investments (say, 3 or 4 trades per year). So far, the results have been promising.

My target cruising budget is about $900/month - which I found to be a very comfortable lifestyle - with the luxury of spending quite a bit of time in Mexico marinas when I wanted. My lowest month (when just anchoring out) - and staying away from resort towns - was about $350 - primarily covering just food and some internet access (in small fishing villages).

China Opening up to Foreign Cruising Yachts

2011-04-18T13:39:00.001-07:00

http://www.noonsite.com/Members/sue/R2011-04-17-2

25 Days or Not?

2011-04-10T17:41:00.000-07:00

My life as a consultant dictates certain constraints that I choose to accept.

One of those constraints is the requirement to serve a client's needs - to complete the work that is started - and to be flexible to their needs.

Although my current engagement is scheduled to end within 25 days - some discussions are in process to extend my contract until October/November - which I would gladly welcome. Leaving now for a voyage - just before the beginning of hurricane season - would not be prudent (although I could fly to the Southern hemisphere for the summer and find a boat to buy or join). Waiting until November to leave on a voyage would work well for the overall timing - give me time to increase my cruising funds - and find the next boat (which of course would need some time for sea trials and outfitting).

If this engagement is not extended - I have had a few discussions about some potential new client projects - which might involve traveling/working in such far-off destinations as Johannesburg South Africa, Shanghai China, London, New Zealand, Australia, France...and possibly San Diego. Nothing definite yet - but to have those as possibilities at this stage is encouraging.

And if it all falls down? I'm fine with that too. I've found a 27 ft. Bristol in Maryland that I can probably pick-up for not much money - and I could spend a few months cruising in the Caribbean, working my way back to Tampa Florida where my sister lives by the Fall.

Another option would be to buy a small log cabin that I've recently found for sale - on an acre of land in the Ozarks - and spend a season there writing and designing software.

Life is filled with options, I am greatly blessed to have my health, many good friends, and the freedom to pursue my passions and my dreams.

For the moment, the only thing missing is my ship...

I was hoping to negotiate the purchase of this very nice 37 ft. Tayana - but we couldn't agree on creative financing terms or the repairs required to obtain traditional financing.

Scott B. Williams: Element II: A Wharram Tiki 26 Catamaran

2011-04-08T22:47:00.001-07:00

http://tiki26element2.blogspot.com/

Glenn Tieman's 38ft. Wharram Catamaran

2011-04-08T22:38:00.000-07:00

A very inspirational fellow:

Glenn Tieman's 38ft. Wharram designed catamaran that he built for less than $15K. On his last voyage (10 years) - he lived on $1-$3/day

http://www.flickr.com/photos/manu_rere/5478022162/in/set-72157626138826324/

http://www.latitude38.com/lectronic/lectronicday.lasso?date=2007-10-05&dayid=13

http://www.wharram.eu/photos/index.cgi?mode=album&album=%2FEthnic-Designs%2FChild+of+the+Sea%2FSailing+Glenn+Tieman%27s+Manu+Rere

http://wharram.eu//live//index.php?topic=20080416175514782

Peter Smith's Kiwi Roa

2011-02-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

inspiring story of one boat builder's creation:
http://www.petersmith.net.nz/about/kiwiroa.php

Yacht Restoration: Baggett and Sons

2011-02-27T16:16:00.001-08:00

Came across this today - posting a link:
http://www.baggett-and-sons.com/

Travel Insurance options?

2011-02-23T21:14:00.000-08:00

I came across a recommendation today for a company called Medix:
http://www.medexassist.com

...however, 9 of 9 reviews of the company were not encouraging...
http://www.travelinsurancereview.net/medex-assist-travel-medical-insurance/

Thai Resort: Phu Por Bot, in Kao Kor, Phetchabun

2011-02-13T17:00:00.001-08:00

A friend in Thailand suggested I visit this resort:
Phu Por Bot, in Kao Kor, Phetchabun
http://www.phuporbot.net/#gallery

100 Days and counting...

2011-01-25T15:52:00.000-08:00

Client has requested a 2nd contract extension for my consulting services...updated the Voyage Countdown Timer...100 days, 7 hours...

38th International Rolex Regatta – St Thomas USVI

2011-01-13T13:14:00.001-08:00

24th March 2011 – 27th March 2011
http://www.rolexcupregatta.com/index2.php

TravelBlog.org

2010-12-31T11:49:00.000-08:00

Came across this site today...
http://www.travelblog.org

HelpX.net - community service ideas...

2010-12-29T00:10:00.001-08:00

http://www.helpx.net

World ARC 2012

2010-12-27T15:24:00.000-08:00

I want to crew for a boat in The World ARC 2012 race which begins in January 2012 in Saint Lucia http://www.worldcruising.com/WORLDARC2012/index.aspx

Useful: BudgetTraveler.com

2010-12-18T01:33:00.001-08:00

http://budgetotraveler.com/

S/V Nine of Cups

2010-12-17T23:22:00.000-08:00

I found the web site tonight for S/V Nine of Cups - looks like the kind of people I would enjoy meeting :)

http://www.nineofcups.com/

http://www.sailblogs.com/member/nineofcups/

The Crusoe Modular 18ft Adventure Trimaran

2010-12-17T11:14:00.001-08:00

http://www.gizmag.com/crusoe-modular-18ft-adventure-trimaran/15195/

MyLanguageExchange.com

2010-12-14T00:06:00.000-08:00

This looks like a useful online web site for making new friends around the world:
http://www.mylanguageexchange.com

YachtAidGlobal.org

2010-12-10T15:33:00.001-08:00

Another opportunity to help provide service somewhere within our global village:
http://www.yachtaidglobal.org/

Boat and Health Insurance...

2010-12-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

http://www.latitude38.com/changes/Changes11-10.html

Azure II — Leopard 47
The Pimentel Family
Spain and Italy

"We paid $5,250 to Willis Insurance for our first year of boat insurance, which covered everywhere in the world — except for Colombia and Cuba — as well as our transatlantic crossing. Since we're only cruising the Western Med this year, we managed to get insurance with well-respected Pantaenius for just $2,400/year."

"Our family of four pays $2,200 a year to Blue Water Insurance for health insurance — as long as we live outside of the United States for six months a year. There is a $5,000 deductible with the policy."

ThePanamaReport.com

2010-11-02T10:57:00.001-07:00

Interesting and Useful:
http://www.thepanamareport.com/

nunomads.com

2010-10-23T12:05:00.001-07:00

cool new site for traveling nomads:
http://www.nunomad.com/

BusinessWeek:
"Do you ever wish you could win the lottery, chuck the rat race, and take off to explore the world? Heck—who hasn't? These days, however, there's a group of independent-minded, techno-savvy entrepreneurs who are turning that dream into a reality. They call themselves New Nomads, and they've transformed work-at-home into work-anywhere-you-damn-well-please"

Link to tutorial: re-packing a stuffing box

2010-10-20T07:02:00.001-07:00

Very nicely illustrated tutorial on how to re-pack a traditional stuffing box:
http://www.pbase.com/mainecruising/stuffing_box

Greek Archaeologists Claim They Discovered Odysseus' Palace

2010-10-17T21:37:00.001-07:00

http://www.novinite.com/view_news.php?id=119469

courtesy of: http://ancient-tides.blogspot.com/

Opportunities for Volunteering While Cruising

2010-09-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

Planning a voyage? Consider donating some of your down-time to these worthwhile causes:

http://www.volunteerinternational.org/

http://www.projects-abroad.org/

http://www.idealist.org/

The Threads of Seafaring Connections

2010-08-26T21:20:00.000-07:00

2010-10-08 Update: Before reading this post, I want to state very clearly - everyone was a beginner at one time - and you only learn by trial-and-error. If you wait until you know how to handle every situation before leaving the dock - you will never untie the dock lines - or raise your sails to the wind. Look with kind eyes on my friend's experience - in the manner of a teacher helping a student - seek to find the lesson - not to criticize the student.

Back in 2004-2005, I worked for a start-up in Bellevue, Washington. By chance, a colleague became a friend after we discovered a mutual passion for sailing. She and her husband now live in Auckland, New Zealand - and we have remained in contact over the years. Through that connection, I came to know a fellow sailor who recently moved from Camano Island to Olympia, Washington.

During the period 2006-2009 I happened to work in Olymipia, Washington and made several good friends - one who was inspired by tales of my voyaging to take the plunge and buy his own sailboat.

This afternoon, a phone call from my friend in Olympia...a fire aboard his sailboat while he is in the middle of an afternoon cruise. The fire is extinguished...

But, he's not sure how to handle the situation...

...how to get the boat back into the Westbay Marina without an operable engine?

...meanwhile I am 1400 miles away in Phoenix, Arizona

A quick survey of the situation:

- Estimated 15 knots of wind - may make maneuvering under sail in tight confines difficult

- Potentially strong tidal currents in the bay where he is sailing

- Darkness expected within an hour or so

- he doesn't have any experience anchoring

- not sure how to operate his VHF radio

- no dinghy on board

- no experience sailing his boat to a dock - or into his slip

- four persons aboard who are inexperienced in all things related to sailing

I do a quick mental check of possible actions:

First Options:

- There's a fairly long open dock just North of Swantown Marina - which could be approached with some ease

- Portions of the public docks near downtown Olympia (Port of Olympia) are long - and often wide open - and have long stretches that could be used to approach with some ease.

However, with no experienced hands on- board - it could be difficult, tricky, or just plain dangerous for him to attempt to rely on their help in getting a mooring line secured as his sailboat might end up approaching the docks too fast - and it would be all too feasible that an inexperienced person might not realize or appreciate the dangers of putting appendages or bodies between heavy moving sailboats - and solid immovable docks.

Second Tier Options:

- See if he can raise Vessel Assist on VHF 16 - and ask if they have any resources/assets in the area.

- Call "Pan-Pan Pan-Pan Pan-Pan" on VHF 16 and request assistance from anyone in the area that might be available with a skiff and strong outboard engine.

We discuss this option over our cell phones as a viable approach...

I also make a phone call to someone that I have never met, and only know through my network of seafaring friendship - on the outside chance that a) he is in Olympia today; b) he might have | or know someone with a dinghy and outboard; c) has the time and inclination to assist a fellow mariner in need.

As it turns out he isn't in town at the moment - but his partner is in Olympia - and they think they know someone who might be able to help.

Phone calls are made - information exchanged - forces are mobilized - recovery operations commenced.

Within a short period - a skiff is spotted skimming across the water - a tow rope is handed and made fast - and within 90 minutes the boat is safely tied back up in her slip.

Lessons Learned:

- You can never have too many fire extinguishers on board.

- Learn to properly operate a VHF Marine Radio

- It is exceedingly difficult to coordinate things via VHF if you have to keep leaving the helm to pop down into the cabin to-the-only-VHF-radio-on-board. A portable hand-held VHF can be very helpful in these situations. They are not that expensive - so splurge for two.

- Learn which channels are monitored within the community of your marina

- Get to know your dock mates - you never know when you might be able to render them assistance - or when you might need theirs.

- Learn how to sail your boat to/from a dock

- Learn how to anchor your boat (bow and stern)

- It is easy to become overly complacent and rely solely on the engine for maneuvering. Practice using your sails while you still have an operable engine - so that you will be ready when you don't.

- If you go to sea, think about the value of having a dinghy on-board, even if you think you are safe in the waters within sight of your marina...situations can develop quickly - and unexpectedly. A dinghy is a wise investment: think of it as your escape pod.

- Don't assume that a fire is necessarily a fuel/oil driven event - it could very well be an electrical short...and could quickly flare up again. [note: Fiberglass will burn with great heat - and speed]

Then again, you could try and pull a Captain Ron docking manuever!

Adriaan Snyman's "Green Witch" aluminum boat building project

2010-08-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

Very interesting information...
http://www.lapwingmarine.com/green_witch_chronicles/building_green_witch.html

Also, see Adriaan's marine services:

http://www.lapwingmarine.com

Great Euroepan Seaside Escapes...

2010-08-14T10:23:00.000-07:00

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/europe/travel-tips-and-articles/42/68705#

Voyage Countdown: Improve Spanish Language Skills? Check!

2010-08-08T22:00:00.001-07:00

Signed-up for a Fall 2010 evening class at Glendale Community College to improve my Spanish language skills...one of the items on my checklist of skills to improve before taking off on another voyage! 175 days to go...

http://www.gc.maricopa.edu/

Jimmy Buffett's "A Salty Piece of Land"

2010-07-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

rentalo.com

2010-07-09T17:30:00.001-07:00

A friend sent me a link today to a useful web site for finding rental units around the world: rentalo.comr

Steve & Joni's Big Sailing Adventure

2010-07-08T18:52:00.000-07:00

My friend, Steve (and his wife Joni), are spending the month of July on a vacation voyage...http://www.sailblogs.com/member/tradition/

oceandots.org

2010-06-19T15:28:00.001-07:00

"The island encyclopedia"
http://www.oceandots.com/

evs-islands.com

2010-06-19T15:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.evs-islands.com/

Sailing Poetry

2010-06-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

I came across this collection of Sea Poetry on the UK Sailing, Sail Cruising and Yachting Guide web site.

http://www.bluemoment.com/poetry.html

2011 Around Australia Ocean Race and Rally Cancelled

2010-06-08T20:04:00.001-07:00

http://www.noonsite.com/Members/sue/R2010-06-08-1

Argggh! I'm quite disappointed - as I had made plans to clear my schedule to spend most of 2011-2012 volunteering as crew for yachts as other crew might roll-off.

Still time to formulate Plan-B. Backpacking through Southeast Asia was a 2nd goal for next year...

Rare steam-powered yachts to race May 15 off San Diego

2010-05-09T14:26:00.001-07:00

http://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/index.php/rare-steam-powered-y-6850/

Travel Networking Resource: Couchsurfing.org

2010-05-08T15:54:00.001-07:00

One of the my favorite resources that I tap in preparing for any international travel is VirtualTourist.com

Today I came across another cool travel related site: CouchSurfing.org

Jeremy Jackson: How we wrecked the ocean

2010-05-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.ted.com/talks/jeremy_jackson.html

"...coral reef ecologist Jeremy Jackson lays out the shocking state of the ocean today: overfished, overheated, polluted, with indicators that things will get much worse"

Victory-Cruises.com

2010-04-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

http://www.victory-cruises.com/

"Visit Cape Horn, Patagonia, Tierra Del Fuego and take Flights to Antarctica and the South Pole. Cruises to Antarctica, South Georgia, the Arctic and the North Pole. Over 600 pages and 1600 graphics. Information on Southern Chile culture, history, fauna, flora, anthropology, geography, archaeology, Chile facts, cruising and sailing. "

Vanuatu islands South Pacific

2010-04-09T16:58:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/sloepmouche

Fleetwoods Circumnavigation The Travels of Jack van Ommen

2010-04-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

Tonight I happened to come across Fleetwoods Circumnavigation, The Travels of Jack van Ommen

He has some great commentary and photos of his travels!

http://www.cometosea.us/albums/albums/

Plastiki Sets Sail!

2010-03-21T12:43:00.001-07:00

http://www.theplastiki.com/

British Virgin Islands

2010-03-06T15:48:00.000-08:00

I came across a few links I wanted to save related to the BVI's

BareboatBVI.com

UltimateBVI.com

Caribbean Travel Forums > BVI

BVIVacation.com

Bomba's Surfside Shack on Tortola

wikimapia.org > Tortola

Egypt Resources

2010-02-28T09:18:00.000-08:00

Long ago, I once spent a month living in desert west of Cairo...and had a chance to visit the city as well as the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx

I hope to return some day to visit Egypt again.

Today I came across a very interesting web site that has some great information for tourists visiting the country: http://www.rayandjuliesegypt.co.uk/

Sailing Adventure Opportunities in Thailand?

2010-02-27T18:00:00.000-08:00

I'm interested in chartering a sailboat in Thailand later this year. This blog posting will be my research notes as I look into different options:

Sailing Thailand Yacht Charter, Sailing Courses - Island Cruises Co,. Ltd.

Ancient Mariners on Crete?

2010-02-21T20:49:00.000-08:00

On Crete, New Evidence of Very Ancient Mariners

S/V Concordia Lost

2010-02-20T14:39:00.000-08:00

West Island College International of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, which operates the Class Afloat program for students in the final two years of high school and the first year of college.

The Concordia Sank Last Wednesday - 188-foot-long (57.5-meter-long) Concordia was built in 1992...offered a Semester At Sea program...

Captain: Downdraft knocked ship over in 15 seconds - Yahoo! News

I noted these bits of information:

"The storm hit in the early afternoon at a time when most of the students were studying in protected structures on deck — which made it easier for them to scramble to life rafts."

"Two rafts got tangled in the rigging — but the ship's cook had rushed so quickly from her chores that she was still clutching a kitchen knife, which was used to slice through the ropes and free the rafts."

"...the school that operates the ship outfitted it with twice as many life rafts as actually needed for 64 people"

An earlier version of the article quoted the captain saying that the windows gave way - and that is what caused the ship to sink in the knock-down.

First rescued Canadians dock in Rio

2010 Singlehanded TransPacific Yacht Race

2010-02-15T22:18:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Singlehanded TransPacific Yacht Race will start this year on June 19th at the Corinthian Yacht Club in San Francisco.

History of the Singlehanded TransPacific Yacht Race

The years continue to slip by...obligations, financial reversals, client commitments...life in general - getting in the way of pursuing my dream to do this race.

Tonight I am sitting in my study - in my apartment in Phoenix Arizona - where I am working for the present on a client project. If things go as planned, I will be wrapping up my work here in January 2011 - and will then take a long break - and do a bit of traveling and sailing. If things take an unexpected turn - well, I guess I'll do that traveling a bit earlier than planned.

Either way, I will be returning to the ocean in less than 12 months.

I will have to see how things go - perhaps the 2012 Singlehanded TransPac will be a possibility...

Lake Pleasant Harbor Marina, Lake Pleasant, AZ

2010-01-18T11:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I spent an enjoyable Sunday afternoon exploring Lake Pleasant Harbor Marina, just outside of Phoenix, Arizona...

The Marina's bar & grill offered up a tasty cheeseburger for lunch :)

Jessica Watson's solo circumnavigation attempt

2010-01-16T13:26:00.001-08:00

Great blog of the young Australian, Jessica Watson, and her solo circumnavigation attempt:
http://youngestround.blogspot.com/

Floating Doctors

2009-11-14T14:40:00.000-08:00

"Live a life of service, and you will be happy"

floatingdoctors.com/

Inspiring.

If you have a few spare dollars and want to support a worthy cause, they have a link to paypal for donations.

backpackinglight.com

2009-10-18T17:32:00.000-07:00

I'm always on the lookout for good gear to add to my voyaging tools - and also - interesting places to explore when I arrive at some particular harbor. I happened to come across backpackinglight.com and wanted to add a blog post to remember it for later.

As an example of some of the interesting content on that site - if your travels / voyaging happen to bring you to the Pacific Northwest - you might be interested in exploring the "Enchantment" region of the Washington State Cascade Mountain range.

2009-10-09 - Lessons Learned from my 1st Voyage

2009-10-09T23:31:00.000-07:00

In 2004 I departed King Harbor, Redondo Beach, California on a voyage and adventure that was to last five months. I had no particular destination in mind, and was able to indulge my desire to travel at a leisurely pace - with no concern for schedules.

I sailed aboard my home - a 1971 32 ft. Islander, built by Wayfarer Yachts, in Costa Mesa, California. She as sloop rigged, with a fin keel, skeg-hung rudder, and a 16 hp. diesel to push her through the water. She was not a fast boat (or at least I never learned to sail her properly to show her true stride) - but I was sure of her - and she kept me safe in some sketchy conditions. She was my version of pre-school...a training ground for exploring what worked for me,and what didn't.

I had in my mind the idea of beginning a new chapter in my life of working 6 months, and sailing for 6 months.

Here's what I learned:

- I love cruising

- There are many types of people that go cruising, but the majority I found belong to a common tribe that is easily identtifiable by their common characteristics: independent, self-reliant, friendly, helpful, outgoing.

- I don't need big, new, fancy, shiny. I'm perfectly happy with older, simpler, efficient, sturdy, safe.

- Speed is not a priority for me...if it was, I would fly there. I sail because there is something mystical in the weaving of wind, wave, man, boat. Looking up at the stars each night and beginning to get a feeling for how to steer by them bridges a connection with skills that have been all but lost - a connection to ancestors that surely were seafaring folk.

- Plenty of freshwater on board (or the ability to make it) is important

- A shower may be a luxury - but I want the option of being able to offer a real shower to guests on my next boat

- The first time you are caught in a narrow, busy shipping channel...at night...in heavy fog...is the last time you'll say: "I don't think I need a radar"

- Although the Garmin YachtBoy Shortwave Receiver I had on board did allow me to listen in on weather reports, I __really__ want a full SSB radio on my next boat.

- Having a backup to the electronic autopilot (mine was an older ST-3000) would have allowed me to have a bit more piece-of-mind at times.

- Having a Wind Vane (for self-steering) installed would have __really__ given me peace of mind. Hand steering from Los Angeles to Catalina Island to San Diego, motivated me to dig out my electrical tools and learn how to repair the wiring in the ST-3000's control unit.

- 16hp was very efficient at fuel consumption - but there was a moment in a gale at sea that I really wished I had at least a 50hp to help punch through those waves...

- A fiberglass dinghy, with the full sailing kit, will be my 1st choice - not an inflatable. And forget about rowing everywhere...buy an outboard. When you are traveling in the dinghy...especially at night - think about having the following on board: an anchor with 150 ft. of rode, flares, a flashlight, and a portable VHF radio. Ask yourself what would you do if your motor died, you dropped an oar overboard, the current started dragging you out of a bay...

My voyage completed, I returned to the Pacific Northwest to find work again...with a strong desire to restructure my life so that when I depart on my next voyage - I will be able to generate passive income in one or more ways to allow a longer voyage - and more freedom.

2009-10-09 Friday - Boat Dream'in

2009-10-09T23:18:00.000-07:00

I have my eye on a certain 1986 43 ft. Hans Christian. She is a beautiful ship - and in all respects she is the boat of my dreams:

Now, there are those that will disparage a heavy displacement boat - and argue for a faster, lighter, boat. Fine I say...but I have been at sea in conditions that taught me to value the benefits of a full keel, heavy displacement, boat. Aye, and she is a salty looking lass, with graceful and yet powerful lines. She says "home" to me in ways that cannot be explained. She is the epitome of my vision of a "magic carpet".

There are distant lands to be explored, seas to be crossed, mountains to be climbed, and friends waiting that are as yet unmet.

2009-10-07 Wednesday - Link Harvest

2009-10-07T20:56:00.001-07:00

I happened to find some interesting links this evening:

seaknots.ning.com

SeaKnots.com: The social network for cruisers. Sharing your adventures, pictures, videos and blogs with other cruisers is only a click away.

travbuddy.com

TravBuddy is an online community for meeting travelers and sharing travel reviews, photos and blogs

travelpod.com

TravelPod.com was released in 1997 when it was introduced as the Web's first site to enable its members to create online travel blogs which revolutionized the way people travel and share their adventures with the world. TravelPod.com remains, as always, a "for the travel community" service.

Voyage of the Rogues' Scholarship

"In November of 2005 we set sail on our 51ft. sailboat to see the world. We have covered over 10,000 miles so far."

S.V.Wildflower

S.V. Wildflower is a forty-foot, custom built, steel hull, pilot house ketch. She is sailed by the Morton Family: Joe, Julie, Stephan and Finn. We are currently cruising in Mexico, mixing pleasure with repairs

John Kretschmer's refit of Morgan 382

2009-10-04T11:52:00.000-07:00

Very interesting - John Kretschmer's description of a Morgan 382 refit.

boatyardpirates.com

2009-10-02T23:52:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed reading the stories on boatyardpirates.com

2009-08-23 Sunday

2009-08-23T13:20:00.001-07:00

I've started reading Bernard Moistessier's "Sailing to the Reefs" - very enjoyable.

2009-08-08 Saturday - Hans Christian 43

2009-08-08T10:27:00.000-07:00

I'm heading to Seattle today to look at a 1980 Hans Christian 43 ft. cutter-rigged sailboat.

update:

The boat was in fair-to-average shape - however, their asking price is a bit high, given some deferred maintenance that needs to be completed. Also, from the yachtworld photos - it appeared there was a dinghy mounted on the deck - and no dinghy was present when I arrived on the docks. The broker didn't know anything about the status of the dinghy...and hasn't called me back with any information 3 weeks later.

I will keep my eye on this one for a potential price drop - but I'm also considering several alternatives in the 36-39 ft. range which are as much as 1/5 to 1/3 the asking price.

On the plus side - there are a LOT of good boats on the market right now.

2009-07-20 Monday - TeakMarine.com

2009-07-20T22:20:00.000-07:00

I happened to see today that Paul Tufts (of TeakMarine.com) became a follower on my Twitter account (SailingEACoder). Their web site looks very interesting. I would have liked to have had a nice wood sole installed in my Islander 32...and some of the other boats I've considered in the past 1-2 years had teak decks that needed some repairs / replacement.

2011 Around Australia Race/Rally

2009-06-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

2011 Around Australia Ocean Race & 2011-2012 Around Australia Rally For Cruisers

Only $100 AU to reserve a spot...

Hmmm....

S/V Tawodi completes a circumnavigation!

2009-06-26T13:04:00.000-07:00

www.svtawodi.com

Northern Yacht Restoration

2009-06-24T19:41:00.000-07:00

I happened to come across Northern Yacht Restoration web site today.

Northern Yacht Restoration, a DBA of Lackey Sailing, LLC, is dedicated to the preservation of classic sailboats and powerboats through restoration, rebuilding, unique projects, and thorough documentation with a steady Internet presence. One boat at a time, we strive to raise the bar in quality and return a neglected classic to Bristol condition--at surprisingly reasonable cost. Let us show you how.
(...)
Like so many small business, Northern Yacht Restoration and Lackey Sailing grew from humble and almost accidental beginnings. Though Tim's always been interested and involved in the marine industry, from driving yacht club launches to a 4-year stint at Maine Maritime to building hulls at Hinckley to 12 years as a marine surveyor, it was a trial-by-fire entry into the minor refinishing of his sound, yet tired, 1967 Pearson Ensign in 1998 that began the path down the road that has led here today.

Tim's work looks first-rate to me.

Santa Cruz, California

2009-06-08T16:13:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 6th, 2009 - I visited Santa Cruz California.

This looks like a good place to anchor off the pier - although it appeared to be a bit rolly - and potentially too open to the West for safe anchoring during winter storms.

Capitola, California

2009-06-08T16:12:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 6th, 2009 - I visted Capitola, California. What a beautiful little town. I need to do a bit more research, but I have quite a few photos to post later!

Costa Rica

2009-06-08T16:10:00.000-07:00

I came across this site today: Nosara Yoga Institute , located in Costa Rica - definitely something to keep on my list of places to visit when I sail into the waters of Costa Rica!

2009 Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival

2009-05-22T17:01:00.000-07:00

2009 Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival

South Lake Union, Seattle
Dates: Saturday, July 4th and Sunday, July 5th, 2009
Time: 10 am – 6 pm daily

Zac Sunderland - Circumnavigation Nearing Completion

2009-05-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

Zac Sunderland is nearing the end of his solo circumnavigation. He is on the final leg of his voyage - and should complete it sometime later this summer. If all goes well, he will be the youngest person to complete such a solo circumnavigation.

An outstanding testament to the spirit of man.

West Coast Yachts, Seattle, WA

2009-05-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a yacht, I have a great broker to recommend.

Dave Melin is a personal friend, and the owner of West Coast Yachts. He is an experienced sailor, a consumate professional, and a man of high integrity. I highly recommend him and his firm.

Dave is a Hallberg-Rassy dealer.

Mazatlan, Mexico

2009-05-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

I have lived in Mazatlan several times in the last few years...spending several seasons aboard my sailboat in the beautifully renovated Marina Mazatlan.

If you need a marine surveryor - or if you need any type of marine or rv refrigeration work done, Mike Wilson of Mexicolder.com is a great guy, a personal friend, and an excellent business contact for the Mazatlan area.

Another very good friend of mine, Francisco Javier Ramos Granados is a licensed real estate agent for Marina Gardens - and is an excellent local contact (cel. 669 106 91 71)

2009-05-19 Tuesday - GPS At Risk

2009-05-19T06:40:00.000-07:00

GPS system 'close to breakdown'
("Network of satellites could begin to fail as early as 2010")

Ferrocement Sailboat Construction

2009-04-30T22:57:00.000-07:00

Ferrocement is one method of sailboat construction.

ferrocement.org

"This site is devoted to the promotion of Ferroboats as well as a base for all matters Ferro in the boating world. Ferro-cement is the name given by English speaking people to a boat building method using steel wires covered with a sand and cement plaster, patented in 1855 by the French, who called it Ferciment. Ferciment boats built before 1855 are still in existence and at least one is still afloat. The Italians called the method of construction Ferro-cemento. The British, New Zealanders and Canadians who promoted the method for amateur construction called it Ferro-cement, often referred to as "concrete". It is the cheapest and easiest form of construction for boats over 25 ft. And apart from strip-plank composite construction, it is the only viable material for large round-bilge boats within the amateur capability, without the requirements of special tools or a weather-proof building."

One man's labor of love (building a ferrocement boat): SEAFALCON.ORG

One bit of recent research regarding "Aluminum Bronze Alloy for Corrosion Resistant Rebar (link updated Aug 8, 2010)" might be of interest to those considering building a ferrocement sailboat:

This project evaluated aluminum bronze alloy as a possible alternative to steel for corrosion resistant concrete reinforcement. Rebars from aluminum bronze alloy were fabricated for laboratory and field evaluations. Initial tests showed rather low mechanical properties for alloys as compared to steel. Further work focused on improving the strength and mechanical properties of the alloy by optimizing its composition and fabrication process. The process eliminated the hot rolling operation and entailed direct continuous casting of aluminum bronze to a near net size and shape of rebar followed by cold drawing the bar to finished size and shape. The cold drawing operation increased the strength of aluminum bronze rebars close to that of mild steel rebar, meeting the ASTM specifications (Figure 1). In corrosion tests, the aluminum bronze alloy showed high resistance to seawater corrosion as compared to mild steel and ductile steel (Figure 2). Cost analysis of aluminum bronze rebars showed a cost of $0.85 per lb. as compared to $1.20 per lb. for stainless steel at current metal prices. The final report is available from the National Technical Information Service (NTIS # PB97-141972).

San Juan Islands, Washington

2009-04-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

wikipedia: San Juan Islands:

The San Juan Islands are a part of the San Juan Archipelago in the northwest corner of the continental United States. The archipelago is split into two groups of islands based on national sovereignty. San Juan Islands are part of the U.S. state of Washington, while the Gulf Islands are part of the Canadian province of British Columbia. There are over 450 islands in the entire archipelago at high tide, but fewer than one-sixth are permanently inhabited.

In the archipelago, fifteen islands are accessible by public ferry. Public ferries serve nine Gulf Islands and six San Juan Islands.

I have spent a little time in the San Juan's - those beautiful islands are enchanting, beguiling, and healing. One feels the stress of the hustle and bustle of life falling from one's shoulders as the minutes pass on a voyage from Anacortes Washington via the ferry...

A user-friendly guide to the San Juans: thesanjuans.com

San Juan Outfitters

Snug Harbor Marina Resort

Roche Harbor

Sea Journeys

A Short Adventure in February

Voyage Countdown reset #2

Merchant Marine Training Resources

Caribbean Destinations

The Adventures of Tig & Serena

Volvo Ocean Race - The First 40 Years

Volvo Ocean Race: To the Ends of The Earth - The First 40 Years:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cp4ydArnzgc&feature=list_related&playnext=1&list=SL

Pacific Island Parks

Voyage Countdown Reset

S/V Ceol Mors

Interesting boat repair projects...

Some very interesting boat repair projects here...

http://pimpmyboat.jamestowndistributors.com/

Japanese 'Noah's ark' Tsunami survival capsule

2011-09-29 Some interesting new links

Poem: Skipper Bound To A Desk

Jimmy Buffett in Phoenix Oct 20th

Two-Way Satellite Communication with Global Coverage

Links to FREE (or Low Cost) Sailboat Opportunitities

CarAngelMinistries-Boat Angel Outreach Center

Extending your Wifi Reception Capabilities

Survival Food

A THINKING MAN’S GUIDE TO VOYAGES SOUTH

A THINKING MAN’S GUIDE TO VOYAGES SOUTH

http://sail.vedamind.com/www_freecrusingguide/2011/07/24/a-thinking-mans-guide-to-voyages-souththe-many-facets-of-caribbean-cruising/

Today's Links

Paul Lutus, Confessions of a Long-Distance Sailor

My Sailing Firsts...

Andrew Evans e-book on Singlehanded Sailing

EscapeTheCity.org

travelfish.org

Voyage Countdown Reset - New Date: November 4, 2011

China Opening up to Foreign Cruising Yachts

25 Days or Not?

Scott B. Williams: Element II: A Wharram Tiki 26 Catamaran

Glenn Tieman's 38ft. Wharram Catamaran

A very inspirational fellow:

Glenn Tieman's 38ft. Wharram designed catamaran that he built for less than $15K. On his last voyage (10 years) - he lived on $1-$3/day

http://www.flickr.com/photos/manu_rere/5478022162/in/set-72157626138826324/

http://www.latitude38.com/lectronic/lectronicday.lasso?date=2007-10-05&dayid=13

http://www.wharram.eu/photos/index.cgi?mode=album&album=%2FEthnic-Designs%2FChild+of+the+Sea%2FSailing+Glenn+Tieman%27s+Manu+Rere

http://wharram.eu//live//index.php?topic=20080416175514782

Peter Smith's Kiwi Roa

inspiring story of one boat builder's creation: http://www.petersmith.net.nz/about/kiwiroa.php

Yacht Restoration: Baggett and Sons

Travel Insurance options?

Thai Resort: Phu Por Bot, in Kao Kor, Phetchabun

100 Days and counting...

38th International Rolex Regatta – St Thomas USVI

TravelBlog.org

HelpX.net - community service ideas...

World ARC 2012

Useful: BudgetTraveler.com

S/V Nine of Cups

The Crusoe Modular 18ft Adventure Trimaran

MyLanguageExchange.com

YachtAidGlobal.org

Boat and Health Insurance...

ThePanamaReport.com

nunomads.com

cool new site for traveling nomads: http://www.nunomad.com/

Link to tutorial: re-packing a stuffing box

Greek Archaeologists Claim They Discovered Odysseus' Palace

Opportunities for Volunteering While Cruising

The Threads of Seafaring Connections

Adriaan Snyman's "Green Witch" aluminum boat building project

Great Euroepan Seaside Escapes...

Voyage Countdown: Improve Spanish Language Skills? Check!

Jimmy Buffett's "A Salty Piece of Land"

rentalo.com

Steve & Joni's Big Sailing Adventure

oceandots.org

evs-islands.com

Sailing Poetry

2011 Around Australia Ocean Race and Rally Cancelled

Rare steam-powered yachts to race May 15 off San Diego

Travel Networking Resource: Couchsurfing.org

Jeremy Jackson: How we wrecked the ocean

inspiring story of one boat builder's creation:
http://www.petersmith.net.nz/about/kiwiroa.php

cool new site for traveling nomads:
http://www.nunomad.com/