Life on a boat is magical — the sunsets, the freedom, the dolphins that pop by just when you need a lift. The whales (that still scare the crap out of me if they venture too close). But it also comes with its own unique challenges. The weather, the constant motion, the never-ending list of “little jobs,” the limited space… and let’s not forget the occasional bout of chaos when something breaks at the exact wrong moment!
If you’ve been following along on Sailing & Sunshine, you’ll know that Captain Mike (64) and I (a very youthful 63!) have been full-time liveaboards long enough to admit… things don’t work quite the way they used to. The knees? Questionable. The memory? Patchy. The sense of adventure? Still absolutely firing.
Long-term cruisers must be prepared with essential tools and spare parts for safe offshore adventures. A comprehensive toolkit, power tools, plumbing essentials, electrical supplies, engine spares, rigging items, and safety gear are crucial. Proper organization ensures accessibility, promoting self-reliance at sea, ultimately leading to enjoyable cruising experiences.
Thrive Within is a platform dedicated to exploring health and wellness for those living on the water. It emphasizes the importance of balance, connecting body, mind, and heart. Expect stories and tips on strengthening your body, cultivating gratitude, resting deeply, and choosing joy amid life's uncertainties. Join to create intentional living.
Thinking about living aboard your yacht full-time? Discover the real pros and cons of the liveaboard lifestyle—from costs and comfort to community, maintenance, and self-sufficiency—in this friendly, honest guide for aspiring full-time sailors.
Cruisers and sailors share an unspoken bond, particularly when facing storms. As a storm approaches Saldanha Bay, preparations include securing the boat, cleaning the deck, and gathering supplies. A comprehensive checklist emphasizes safety measures and crew readiness. Staying informed and acting early can significantly enhance safety during bad weather.
I have a confession to make. I LOVE ChatGPT. I mentioned this to a friend recently, and she asked, "What's that?" It's simple. You can ask "ChatGPT" questions on your trusty laptop or phone and get an answer within seconds. I decided to illustrate how this works in this week's post by using AI. I … Continue reading Mediterranean Sailing: 10 Must-Visit Islands
Best marinas in Europe in 2025 and preparing for hurricane season in the Caribbean.
Having recently changed my blog host to WordPress, I lost a few posts, including the most traumatic one, losing the mast!! Apologies to those who have read it previously. I have not edited the post at all. Leaving from Rio de Janeiro to Cape Town – Atlantic Ocean storm and losing the mast. An unexpected … Continue reading Leaving Rio De Janeiro and Losing the Mast in the Atlantic Ocean.
After surviving losing a mast in the Atlantic ocean, being a flotilla crew skipper/crew for 6 months in Greece with that bloody nasty Meltemi and some very inexperienced skippers, plus spending 3 days on board during the worst winds EVER recorded in Gordons Bay Yacht Club, yet walking down a wobbly jetty in the semi-dark … Continue reading Full blown PTSD when returning to the boat after six months on land.
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