Land Ho!
So excited to be in Huahine, Society Islands, French Polynesia after a sixteen and a half-day, 2600 mile sail.
Of course, I had to be dragged kicking and screaming from our friends in Hilo and from the Hamilton’s lovely Beach House, but once I was back on board, I was ready to go.
Our first few days at sea were a bit rough and had me wondering why I ever wanted to circumnavigate the world on a sailboat. When your home is beating into 25 + knot winds and 12-15 feet seas it is like living in a washing machine. I’ve sailed in much worse, but it had been awhile. I found myself missing family, friends, New York City, a steady paycheck, clean, dry sheets, daily showers, and maid service.
Luckily, we had lots of delicious longans and avocados from Plant It Hawaii (the Hamilton’s farm), the best tomatoes we have ever had on board from Hamakua Springs, fresh fish caught by the Captain and Steve, and the Captain’s incredible culinary skills to keep our spirits up.
By the third day, the relaxation started to kick in and it finally felt good to be back at sea. I loved the sound of the ocean, the lull of the waves, the colors of the sea and the sky, the characters made by the clouds (e.g. dragons) the stars and endless time to think, breath, and dream. And I had the best watches (0400 to 0600, 1400-1800, and 2200 -0000) for enjoying the sunrises, sunsets, and stars.
On the twelfth day, the wind died, and everything became somewhat boring, monotonous, and hot. Luckily, the winds came back after a few days and we made it to Huahine three and a half days ahead of schedule!
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It was fabulous to have Steve on board. A Captain of his own ship, he is an extremely knowledgeable sailor and mechanic. His support allowed the Captain (and thus me) to be more relaxed and we both enjoyed a lot more sleep. I asked Margo, Steve’s wife, if we could keep Steve on board, but regretfully, she wants him back.
Time to ready the boat for Margo’s visit! Maybe there is still a chance that we can convince her to let us keep Steve.
PS – I have traded internet connectivity and phone service for paradise. As such, I will be delayed in corresponding, at least while we are in Huahine.
**Update 18 June 2014** Our ‘crew’ Steve recently posted his thoughts and pictures from our crossing. You can read it here. Good stuff!
Featured image courtesy of the Captain
I read about searavensailing’s journey to French Polynesia and theirs was extremely rough. You guys might cross paths!!!
Thanks for letting us know about Sea Raven! Have signed up to follow their blog http://searavensailing.com/ and will keep a look out for them when they head to the Societies. They were traveling West from Mexico. We were traveling South from Hawaii so had a different experience
Well done for arriving safe and sound and in pretty quick time too. Not sure its good for my soul to read to much more. Enjoy paradise!
Sending you lots of love and good vibes Captain Cox!
I’ve read several of your posts about your adventures and simply love the journey you’ve been on. I have a cousin that worked as a chef on a yacht in the Caribbean, but that’s nothing compared to what you’ve done. You are such an inspiration for women to follow their heart and find ways to fulfill their dreams. Thanks so much for sharing.
Thank you for all of the love, Nancy. You made my week with your lovely compliment. I am grateful to be able to follow my dreams and to be supported by friends and family who practically pushed me off the dock. Without their encouragement, I never would have left. How cool that your cousin got a gig as a chef on a yacht. Those opportunities are not easy to come by.