Land - Ho, Ho, Ho
25 December 2010
Over a year has zoomed by since we began the adventure that took us a decade to plan - you know, sailing the Caribbean and the Mediterranean on our 47 ft catamaran, Azure II. It may not be everyone's dream and in fact when you encounter nasty weather, broken boat parts and sick kids all on the same day, it's more like a crazy challenge. But it's all about the journey. Swimming with turtles, kayaking with dolphins and gazing at skies full of stars have been awe- inspiring. We're grateful to have the opportunity to travel and experience these memorable moments as a family. People have asked:
What we do all day: Snorkel, hike, homeschool and fix stuff. See the sites. Trek to grocery stores. Figure out where we are and where we are going. Host friends & family and socialize with other sailors. Most of the time we are anchored, not sailing.
Surprises: The boys aren't homesick and don't miss TV (their caveat is that they miss it when they see it again...hmm.)
Scariest part: Dragging anchor in 30 knots at 3:00 am in St. Martin.
Stats: Sailed 6000 miles, explored 17 territories/countries,
visited 70 anchorages.
Favorite Places: Columbier, St. Barts - a turtle haven
BVIs- so many islands, rocks & wonders
Horta, Azores - European old world charm
Italy - what's not to like?
Best Part: Spontaneity, nature, sharing our journey w/ others.
Current Boat Location: Vibo Valentia, Italy - it's cold there now.
Family Location: We're warm & cozy at Uncle Jimmy's in Three Rivers!
What's Next? Visiting family and playing in Tahoe. March 2nd, it's back to the boat to travel Greece & Turkey (with a side trip to Germany to visit our friend Anke.) We'll return home in August 2011 in time for Leo to start 6th grade and RJ 8th grade.
We're so lucky to have had phenomenal support along the way and we greatly appreciate the hand delivery of boat parts, volunteer labor, crew help as well as the encouraging notes throughout our voyage! We wish you a happy, healthy and adventurous 2011!