Author: sailingandsunshine

Mike (Swiss) and Nikki (South African) are fulltime liveaboards, currently in Cape Town, South Africa. Have just spent 6 months as flotilla leaders in Greece, an experience of a lifetime! Where to next? Good question.....

🌿 The Emotional Tides of Long-Term Cruising — Riding the Highs and Lows With Heart

People often picture long-term cruising as an endless holiday — turquoise anchorages, sunset cocktails, dolphins at the bow. And yes… There is magic. So much magic. But the truth is softer, deeper, more complex. Cruising isn’t just a physical journey.It’s an emotional one — with tides just as real as the ones beneath your hull. … Continue reading 🌿 The Emotional Tides of Long-Term Cruising — Riding the Highs and Lows With Heart →

✨ Introducing Thrive Within: A New Space for Your Mind, Body & Soul at Sea

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!

🧰 Essential Tools and Spares Every Long-Term Cruiser Should Have on Board

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.

Leaving Rio De Janeiro and Losing the Mast in the Atlantic Ocean.

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. →