Estimated reading time 5-8 minutes
| STart of the Journey | Planned end | Nautical miles sailed | COUNTRIES VISITED | WINE GLASSES BROKEN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 from Croatia | Open | 23200 | 23 | 21 |
Navigating Uncertainty: Sailing from Croatia During the Pandemic
We embarked on our journey aboard our sailboat, Teatime, from Croatia in late June 2020. As countries began to loosen their travel restrictions between the COVID-19 pandemic’s first two waves, we set sail for the Strait of Gibraltar, aiming to arrive before the end of August. We timed it this way because the subsequent leg—from Gibraltar to the Canary Islands—is generally easier to navigate in late summer. As autumn approaches, conditions often turn treacherous.
During our Mediterranean sojourn, we anchored at captivating spots like the southern coast of Italy, the Lipari Islands, the base of Stromboli Volcano, Sicily, and Sardinia. Despite encountering challenging weather and turbulent seas, we persevered and reached Menorca. Following a brief respite, we explored the Balearic Islands—Mallorca and Ibiza—before sailing along the Iberian Peninsula to reach the Strait of Gibraltar.
Crossing the Atlantic: The Ultimate Test of Skill and Preparation
Upon arriving in Gibraltar, we shifted our focus to preparing Teatime for the transatlantic journey. A month of diligent work later, we set sail for the Canary Islands. We reached La Graciosa after five days at sea and enjoyed an incredible week there. Final preparations took place in Las Palmas, where we stayed until mid-November. By then, both crew and vessel were ready for the Atlantic crossing.
We departed the Canary Islands on November 15 and reached Mindelo in Cape Verde after eight exhilarating days of sailing. Over the next five days, we stocked up on supplies, explored the local scenery, and paid homage to the legendary singer, Cesaria Évora, at a dedicated exhibit.
Our next destination was Martinique, which we reached after 16 days. The day we arrived marked the lifting of COVID curfew restrictions, and within a week or two, life was returning to normal—albeit with masks still required in some areas.
Exploring the Caribbean: A Symphony of Sun, Sand, and Sea
We began 2021 by sailing to Saint Martin via Guadeloupe and St. Barth, where we resided for three months. Meanwhile, we applied for a permit to enter French Polynesia but were met with denial after six weeks of anticipation.
Faced with the question of our next destination, we ultimately decided on the Bahamas. This turned out to be an extraordinary experience—replete with white sandy beaches, untouched islands, crystalline waters, and lush coconut palms.
Entering the U.S. presented its own set of challenges, but upon our arrival in Miami, we were greeted with remarkable hospitality at the marina. Navigating towards Panama later that year marked one of our more strenuous sailing endeavors. It was a journey fraught with navigating the Gulf Stream, lightning storms, and the onset of the hurricane season.
After another application, we finally received an entry permit for French Polynesia in October.
From Miami to Panama: Battling the Elements and Beating the Odds
Departing from Miami, we immediately plunged into some of the most strenuous sailing conditions we’d ever faced. Navigating the Gulf Stream’s powerful current, we were also met with lightning storms that lit up the night sky in an awe-inspiring but treacherous display. Dodging the onset of the hurricane season, we reached Shelter Bay Marina in Panama, immensely grateful for solid ground and a temporary respite.
Blog: Diary – Sailing from Miami to Panama
Discovering San Blas: A Slice of Paradise Frozen in Time
Our next leg took us to the enchanting San Blas Islands. We anchored amidst the idyllic archipelago and were immediately enamored with its natural beauty and the warmth of the Kuna people. Time seemed to stand still as we snorkeled in the crystal-clear waters, bartered fresh produce with locals, and explored their rich cultural tapestry.
Blog: San Blas Islands, Guna Yala
Transiting the Panama Canal with SeaLegacy 1
The transition from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean via the Panama Canal was an experience of a lifetime. Despite initial apprehensions about navigating such a complex system, we were amazed at how smoothly it all went, thanks to meticulous planning and coordination. We passed through the massive locks and sailed across Gatun Lake, awestruck by the sheer engineering genius that connected two vast oceans.
Blog: Passage Through the Panama Canal
Exploring the Pearl Islands: A Hidden Gem in the Pacific
Finally, we reached the Pearl Islands, which offered a stark contrast to our previous stops. The archipelago served as a haven for exotic wildlife. While sailing through the mangroves, we spotted mother whales and their calves, an experience that left us in awe of the majesty of nature. The islands also offered secluded beaches and hidden waterfalls, serving as the perfect backdrop for some well-earned relaxation.
With this leg of the journey complete, we found ourselves reflecting on the sheer diversity of experiences we’d had, from battling the elements between Miami and Panama to immersing ourselves in the unique cultures and natural wonders of the region. It was a poignant reminder of why we’d set sail in the first place: to embrace the beauty and unpredictability of life at sea.
The Galápagos Adventure: Where Nature Reigns Supreme
After departing the Pearl Islands, we set our sights on the Galápagos. The two weeks we spent there felt like a lifetime in the best way possible. Exploring the islands on foot and by dinghy, we were in awe of how well-protected the area was. We snorkeled with sea lions, admired giant tortoises, and were ever-mindful of the delicate balance between tourism and conservation. It was a lesson in sustainable living, one that we wished could be replicated globally.
An Odyssey Across the Pacific: A New Horizon in French Polynesia
The next leg was a non-stop 20-day sail from the Galápagos to French Polynesia. The isolation felt both exhilarating and daunting, but seeing Nuku Hiva rise from the ocean was a moment we’ll never forget. From there, we explored the Marquesas and Tuamotus, each island and atoll its own universe of biodiversity and culture. By the time we reached Bora Bora in June, we were deeply appreciative of this paradise, grateful for its beauty and mindful of its fragility.
Navigating Toward New Horizons: French Polynesia to Vanuatu
Leaving French Polynesia due to El Niño’s hurricane threat, we set sail west in May 2023. Our first stop was the Cook Islands, known for their stunning lagoons. Then it was off to Tonga, where we glimpsed King Tupou VI and marveled at the natural beauty. Fiji was next, but poor weather cut our visit short.
We finally reached Vanuatu, a place where time seemed to stand still. We met welcoming locals and marveled at active volcanoes. Each destination reminded us of the planet’s fragility and resilience, themes that have defined our journey.
Exploring New Horizons: 2023-2024
Our adventures since 2023 have been nothing short of extraordinary. Initially, our plan was to sail through the Torres Strait to Indonesia from Vanuatu. However, due to unpredictable weather patterns, we found ourselves setting course for Australia – a decision we haven’t regretted for a moment.
In Australia, we hoped to make our way up the east coast by the end of 2023, but once again, the weather had other plans for us. Instead of risking the journey, we decided to stay safe and turned around at Cairns. We took this opportunity to do some repairs and preparations on the boat while we waited out the cyclone season in Brisbane.
Presently, we’re still in Australia, using this time to explore the breathtaking beauties this land has to offer, and also preparing Teatime for the next leg of our journey. We’re eagerly anticipating the end of the cyclone season and are making plans to head towards Indonesia in May 2024. From there, our route will take us to Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and eventually, we’ll sail across the Indian Ocean.
This leg of our journey continues to teach us the value of adaptability and the importance of embracing the unexpected. As we explore new places and cultures, we’re constantly reminded of the endless wonders our planet holds. We’re excited to share more of our experiences with you, and as always, we appreciate your support and interest in our family’s adventure.
Stay tuned for more updates as we sail onwards!