What is it about sailing that draws one time after time to find one self
out here on the big blue once again. Is it the solitude, the vast expanses
of ocean around you, the close connection with all the heavenly bodies,
or is it a touch of madness, a dash of adventurous spirit, or is it simply
just in your blood ? I think it is different for everyone, a few reasons
would be the same, but at the core there are as many reasons as there are
individuals who cross the oceans. And good that we are all different, and
can share our experiences with each other and enrich each other. If we
were all born to be teachers there would be nobody to teach, if we were
all doctors there would be no patients, if we were all lawyers we would
all be suing each other.
Not everybody is doing what they want to do, for a lot of people their
occupation is simply a means to an end. A way of earning an income and
support a certain standard of living. Many have not much choice in the
matter, trapped in a situation from which they cannot easily escape. And
we dream that one day we will be able to follow our dreams, but time is
limited, very limited, and before you know, death is knocking at your
door. Dare to dream is easy enough to write, but it leads to utter
frustration if our dreams cannot be attained. Dream big we are told by
some, or rather don't dream at all, then you won't be disappointed . And
here and there through the cracks of our everyday existence our spirit
cries for wings, but we rather fill the cracks with all types of
meaningless activities and pretend our spirit does not exist. We suffer
hugely, and such is life, the spirit will not be denied. You are born
alone and you will die alone, and you alone is responsible for what you do
with your experience we call life.
Through the general media we are fed all types of crap for want of a
better word. Our focus is directed to the more material things in life, to
the financial benefit of a few, and the spiritual demise of the masses.
And so we are enslaved, led to believe that if you buy this car you will
be happy, if you where that perfume you will be irresistible, if you eat
KFC your hunger will be stilled. But for how long before the artificial
feeling good feeling wears off. And we are once again searching for the
next thrill to shield us from really feeling good. I enjoy kfc now and
then, or even Mc Donald's fills the gap and quick, and a every car to me
is an expression of freedom, and expensive perfume does smell divine.
There is a place for all these things . The yacht I am sailing is R 6 500
000, so I am no stranger to the "good" life. But does it make me better
than you ? I am afraid not. Most people think if they have big cars, big
houses and big overdraft facilities they are better than the local beggar.
But when they go and sleep at night the spirit seeps through the cracks
again and in the morning when you look into the mirror, who are you really
? But before it bothers me to much, I am back in the rat race, wasting my
time hoping that one day I will escape from this self-imposed prison I
find myself in.
And one good morning you wake up and realize that it is all just a vast
emptiness, and the hollow feeling inside can no longer be pacified. What
the on earth do you do ? Just get up and carry on ? Or do you start to
realize that there is more to life than what you have been having so far.
We cannot escape pain and hurt and disappointment but we can see the
purpose of these things in our lives. We can rise above our circumstances
and let our spirit free. And we are then free to become what we were
created to be. The more I know the more I know how little I know. I have
far more questions than answers. And perhaps that is why I sail, to get
away from the all mental pollution. I see the sun rise every morning and
set every night, I watch the moon wax and wane, I notice the stars and the
clouds, the storms and the rainbows. Who writes the script for all these
things that have been there long before I was born and will be there long
after I have moved on. All I really know is that things change all the
time, and other things stay the same. I trust I have the courage to change
where I need to, and learn more about the things that never change.
Oh yes, nearly forgot that I am doing a sailing blog, the above really
just writing for myself. Hahahahaha !!!!. Ok serious, if I measure the
earth at the equator and calculate my nautical miles sailed, I have sailed
more than seven times around the world. I love the Leopard 48, she is the
loveliest boat I have sailed so far. We expect to arrive at St.Helena
Island tomorrow night . We have had fantastic weather thus far, motoring
just now and then to charge our batteries. Our current position at 11am
SA time is 17*42'S and 002*01'W. Yes, we crossed over ton the western
hemisphere yesterday at about noon. Have yourself a wonderful weekend and
make the most of life. Love is all you need.
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
On wings and things on Leka Lewa
After our initial smooth and fast, then slowly motoring with no wind on
a beam sea, to having twin headsails up and surfing down the swells
rolling in from behind and making good miles till the wind started
fading a bit. From a rushing 8+kts down to 4 kts but we kept on sailing,
conserving our fuel for the way ahead. This morning the wind backed a
little more and it was time to drop one of the headsails and raise the
main. Full main to start with and with the flat seas and full headsail
we were once again sailing fast. The wind slowly climbed and settled at
16kts, well within the safety parameters of our sail configuration.
Holding a steady 8+ kts we found the natural speed of the boat. Three or
so hours later we decided to reef both main and headsail to 1st reef.
And fantastic results, going even faster with less stress on the rigging
and the boat. Our position currently 17h30 on 18/02 is 24*31'S and
008*59'E. We have covered 750nm in the last 5 days averaging 6.25kts and
happy with our progress so far.
Yesterday morning being Sunday we had the usual Sunday bacon and egg
breakfast. We also for some reason have a lot to do on Sundays. Had to
set up the twin headsails, wash the deck down a bit, fill the watertanks
from our drums and so the list went on. We rest six days a week and on
the seventh day we work. Not deliberately or by design, that is just the
way it always seems to work out. For lunch we had a mixed fresh salad
with feta sprinkled on top. Malcolm also baked his best yet bread. I
will try to post a pic of this masterpiece at St. Helena. The internet
there does not always allow us such luxuries but we will try. For supper
we had Toad in the Hole, a traditional dish consisting of pork bangers and
a special pastry, covered with some tomato and onion gravy. Always
delectable and an old English dish if I am not mistaken. Also prepared
by Malcolm, seems he is a workaholic. This morning we had our birchem
muesli fruit fantasy breakfast again. Another batch of rusks also saw
the light, the first batch only lasting four days. The new batch was
sampled at teatime but with coffee. For lunch Jacob whipped together
some flapjacks and they did not last long either. He enjoys it with a
soft fried egg on top with syrup, Malcolm also tried one like that but
for me just butter and maple syrup thanks. For tonight we are doing
meatballs with gravy, mash and peas. Care to join us for supper ?
In my previous blog I set out to share some insights into the life of
long distance sailors. The first thing that gets to you when you leave
Cape Town is how beautiful Table Mountain is. From all angles, in all
weather, all the time. Within you there is great sadness for family and
friends you are leaving behind. There is also the anticipation for what
is ahead of you. As the mountain grows smaller in the distance behind
you all these and many more emotions flood your being. There is a last
rush to say goodbye while you have cellphone reception, and once that
dissapears you know you are on your way. Your body now has to first grow
sealegs and grow accustomed to the continious motion. For some it is
just a little unsettledness, for others it is a longer and more
difficult process, and then there are those that just don't get over it.
No matter how much they love the ocean, for some reason they just can't
handle the motion. There are a lot of advice and medication in this
regard, but in the end it mostly just takes a little time. After the
second day things are beginning to feel normal and comfortable once
again.
Sleeping on a rocking bed is also a factor to take into consideration.
The boat moves this way and that way, you are exhausted and need some
sleep. Eventually you relax and fall asleep, your muscles constantly
counteracting the motion of the boat. You use muscles you normally never
even knew existed. You wake up physically tired, as if you had a long
work-out in the gym, not that I would know what that feels like. It also
takes a day or two for your muscles to get used to the new demands
placed on them. The fresh air always is good for a healthy appetite, and
we don't skimp on that part either. Once your body is into the swing of
things you can really start enjoying the experience in other ways that I
will elaborate on in future postings. It is imperative to maintain some
form of deliberate physical exercise on a bit. We don't get much
exercise whether walking or swimming or going to gym. We sit around for
months at end, pulling up sail here, lifting a water drum there, not much
by account. But not many of us actually do physical exercise and you pay
the price when you have to things that would be easier if you were fit.
Another factor is the time zones we sail through and the irregular
sleeping patterns we have to get used to. Our watches determine that we
go to sleep and wake up every day at different times. It is amazing what
one can achieve once you are out of your comfort zones and your regular
routines. So if you still think you like sailing good for you, the best
is yet to come. The body adapts, and once you are through the initial
discomfort, you are well on your way.
Hope you too are having an awesome time and making the most of your days
which are numbered. Till we meet again, go you exceedingly well.
Paul
a beam sea, to having twin headsails up and surfing down the swells
rolling in from behind and making good miles till the wind started
fading a bit. From a rushing 8+kts down to 4 kts but we kept on sailing,
conserving our fuel for the way ahead. This morning the wind backed a
little more and it was time to drop one of the headsails and raise the
main. Full main to start with and with the flat seas and full headsail
we were once again sailing fast. The wind slowly climbed and settled at
16kts, well within the safety parameters of our sail configuration.
Holding a steady 8+ kts we found the natural speed of the boat. Three or
so hours later we decided to reef both main and headsail to 1st reef.
And fantastic results, going even faster with less stress on the rigging
and the boat. Our position currently 17h30 on 18/02 is 24*31'S and
008*59'E. We have covered 750nm in the last 5 days averaging 6.25kts and
happy with our progress so far.
Yesterday morning being Sunday we had the usual Sunday bacon and egg
breakfast. We also for some reason have a lot to do on Sundays. Had to
set up the twin headsails, wash the deck down a bit, fill the watertanks
from our drums and so the list went on. We rest six days a week and on
the seventh day we work. Not deliberately or by design, that is just the
way it always seems to work out. For lunch we had a mixed fresh salad
with feta sprinkled on top. Malcolm also baked his best yet bread. I
will try to post a pic of this masterpiece at St. Helena. The internet
there does not always allow us such luxuries but we will try. For supper
we had Toad in the Hole, a traditional dish consisting of pork bangers and
a special pastry, covered with some tomato and onion gravy. Always
delectable and an old English dish if I am not mistaken. Also prepared
by Malcolm, seems he is a workaholic. This morning we had our birchem
muesli fruit fantasy breakfast again. Another batch of rusks also saw
the light, the first batch only lasting four days. The new batch was
sampled at teatime but with coffee. For lunch Jacob whipped together
some flapjacks and they did not last long either. He enjoys it with a
soft fried egg on top with syrup, Malcolm also tried one like that but
for me just butter and maple syrup thanks. For tonight we are doing
meatballs with gravy, mash and peas. Care to join us for supper ?
In my previous blog I set out to share some insights into the life of
long distance sailors. The first thing that gets to you when you leave
Cape Town is how beautiful Table Mountain is. From all angles, in all
weather, all the time. Within you there is great sadness for family and
friends you are leaving behind. There is also the anticipation for what
is ahead of you. As the mountain grows smaller in the distance behind
you all these and many more emotions flood your being. There is a last
rush to say goodbye while you have cellphone reception, and once that
dissapears you know you are on your way. Your body now has to first grow
sealegs and grow accustomed to the continious motion. For some it is
just a little unsettledness, for others it is a longer and more
difficult process, and then there are those that just don't get over it.
No matter how much they love the ocean, for some reason they just can't
handle the motion. There are a lot of advice and medication in this
regard, but in the end it mostly just takes a little time. After the
second day things are beginning to feel normal and comfortable once
again.
Sleeping on a rocking bed is also a factor to take into consideration.
The boat moves this way and that way, you are exhausted and need some
sleep. Eventually you relax and fall asleep, your muscles constantly
counteracting the motion of the boat. You use muscles you normally never
even knew existed. You wake up physically tired, as if you had a long
work-out in the gym, not that I would know what that feels like. It also
takes a day or two for your muscles to get used to the new demands
placed on them. The fresh air always is good for a healthy appetite, and
we don't skimp on that part either. Once your body is into the swing of
things you can really start enjoying the experience in other ways that I
will elaborate on in future postings. It is imperative to maintain some
form of deliberate physical exercise on a bit. We don't get much
exercise whether walking or swimming or going to gym. We sit around for
months at end, pulling up sail here, lifting a water drum there, not much
by account. But not many of us actually do physical exercise and you pay
the price when you have to things that would be easier if you were fit.
Another factor is the time zones we sail through and the irregular
sleeping patterns we have to get used to. Our watches determine that we
go to sleep and wake up every day at different times. It is amazing what
one can achieve once you are out of your comfort zones and your regular
routines. So if you still think you like sailing good for you, the best
is yet to come. The body adapts, and once you are through the initial
discomfort, you are well on your way.
Hope you too are having an awesome time and making the most of your days
which are numbered. Till we meet again, go you exceedingly well.
Paul
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Cape Town to Tortola on a Leopard 48 Catamaran named for the trip - Lekka Lewa
Once again it is an immense blessing to be out at sea. And to be out here
on a brand new Leopard 48 Catamaran makes it even more special. This cat
won Cruising World Magazine's Boat of the Year award for 2013 in the Best
Full Size Multihull category. It is the fifth time this honor has been
awarded to the Leopard Catamarans, produced by Robertson and Caine in Cape
Town. In the Feb issue of SA Sailing magazine there is a review on the
Leopard 48, amazing boat to say the least. Check it on the net, there is
too much to say about this yacht that pictures can tell in a glance.
Our first day out we raised full main and headsails and with a gentle 10
to 12 knots of breeze we were clipping nicely at 7.5 kts on a beam reach.
The weather looked good for as far as the weather prophets predicted. A
front was coming in just below Cape Town and we expected a bit of
westerlies before the wind would back to SW and S to SE. The mighty
Benguela current runs up the west coast of Africa from the cold south and
brings rich nutritious water to the surface, hence the rich sealife in the
area. Just before sunset the wind died down and we started motoring. The
swell was coming from the west as a result of the front that passed and we
experienced some beam seas, the swell coming from the side of the boat.
Not very comfortable on any vessel but we knew this would only last a day
or so before the current, swell and wind all moves in harmony in the same
direction. Fair winds and following seas is what we sometimes wish our
fellow mariners. It describes such conditions. On a catamaran it is pure
bliss, surfing down the swells and wind blowing from behind. Correct
nautical term for the back of the boat or from behind is stern or from
astern.As our weatherfiles predicted we had up to 33kts of wind coming
through on our second day out. Our average speed would be 6.5 kts and when
surfing down the swells the speed builts up quickly, our fastest surf
recorded so far 17.7 kts.And all we had out was a little bit of headsail,
set to make the most of the conditions and placing the least possible
stress on our yacht.Enough of the technical stuff.
First night out we had pre-cooked chicken and bread and the chicken and
mayonaise sandwiches went down well. Still finding our sealegs we are not
always keen on cooking up a storm on the first day out. The night before I
prepared some boerewors with potato spuds and a tin of sweetcorn. last
night it was pasta shells and mince. For breakfast we have bircher muesli,
a speciality of Malcolm who is 1st Mate on this trip. It basically
consists of rolled oats soaked the night before in a bit of water and
lemon juice. Almond nuts are also soaked the night before which swells
them up and softens them. Apple is then grated into the rolled oats the
next morning and on top of this an array of fresh fruit. The soaked
almonds are then crushed and sprinkled on top. A bit of cinnamon and honey
adds the final touch. A lot of work and time consuming but healthy and
delicious. For midnight snacks Malcolm also baked his first batch of
rusks. The recipe is a family secret and oh so nice. Both my crew enjoy
good coffee. Real coffee with a plunger, all different types. My other
crew member is Jacob Gross, born in the USA. Served five years in the US
navy and travelled far and wide after his service in the navy. We all get
on extremely well, have respect for each other and allow for differences
of opinion on any and all matters.
We have some way to go, from start to finish 6000nm and taking about five
to six weeks. First stop St. Helena and then head for the Caribbean. I
hope to share with you an insight into the life of a long distance sailor.
Life on the big blue.What goes on inside our bodies, our heads, our hearts,
our mind, our soul and our spirit.
Our current position is 28*24' S and 012*16' E. We are 200nm from the
nearest land and due east of us is Oranjemund. We hope to make landfall at
St. Helena Island on the 22nd of February.
Will post again soon and until then take good care.
Paul
on a brand new Leopard 48 Catamaran makes it even more special. This cat
won Cruising World Magazine's Boat of the Year award for 2013 in the Best
Full Size Multihull category. It is the fifth time this honor has been
awarded to the Leopard Catamarans, produced by Robertson and Caine in Cape
Town. In the Feb issue of SA Sailing magazine there is a review on the
Leopard 48, amazing boat to say the least. Check it on the net, there is
too much to say about this yacht that pictures can tell in a glance.
Our first day out we raised full main and headsails and with a gentle 10
to 12 knots of breeze we were clipping nicely at 7.5 kts on a beam reach.
The weather looked good for as far as the weather prophets predicted. A
front was coming in just below Cape Town and we expected a bit of
westerlies before the wind would back to SW and S to SE. The mighty
Benguela current runs up the west coast of Africa from the cold south and
brings rich nutritious water to the surface, hence the rich sealife in the
area. Just before sunset the wind died down and we started motoring. The
swell was coming from the west as a result of the front that passed and we
experienced some beam seas, the swell coming from the side of the boat.
Not very comfortable on any vessel but we knew this would only last a day
or so before the current, swell and wind all moves in harmony in the same
direction. Fair winds and following seas is what we sometimes wish our
fellow mariners. It describes such conditions. On a catamaran it is pure
bliss, surfing down the swells and wind blowing from behind. Correct
nautical term for the back of the boat or from behind is stern or from
astern.As our weatherfiles predicted we had up to 33kts of wind coming
through on our second day out. Our average speed would be 6.5 kts and when
surfing down the swells the speed builts up quickly, our fastest surf
recorded so far 17.7 kts.And all we had out was a little bit of headsail,
set to make the most of the conditions and placing the least possible
stress on our yacht.Enough of the technical stuff.
First night out we had pre-cooked chicken and bread and the chicken and
mayonaise sandwiches went down well. Still finding our sealegs we are not
always keen on cooking up a storm on the first day out. The night before I
prepared some boerewors with potato spuds and a tin of sweetcorn. last
night it was pasta shells and mince. For breakfast we have bircher muesli,
a speciality of Malcolm who is 1st Mate on this trip. It basically
consists of rolled oats soaked the night before in a bit of water and
lemon juice. Almond nuts are also soaked the night before which swells
them up and softens them. Apple is then grated into the rolled oats the
next morning and on top of this an array of fresh fruit. The soaked
almonds are then crushed and sprinkled on top. A bit of cinnamon and honey
adds the final touch. A lot of work and time consuming but healthy and
delicious. For midnight snacks Malcolm also baked his first batch of
rusks. The recipe is a family secret and oh so nice. Both my crew enjoy
good coffee. Real coffee with a plunger, all different types. My other
crew member is Jacob Gross, born in the USA. Served five years in the US
navy and travelled far and wide after his service in the navy. We all get
on extremely well, have respect for each other and allow for differences
of opinion on any and all matters.
We have some way to go, from start to finish 6000nm and taking about five
to six weeks. First stop St. Helena and then head for the Caribbean. I
hope to share with you an insight into the life of a long distance sailor.
Life on the big blue.What goes on inside our bodies, our heads, our hearts,
our mind, our soul and our spirit.
Our current position is 28*24' S and 012*16' E. We are 200nm from the
nearest land and due east of us is Oranjemund. We hope to make landfall at
St. Helena Island on the 22nd of February.
Will post again soon and until then take good care.
Paul
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