Support Structure
A strong support structure is an important factor in decision-making and planning. This includes emotional support from friends and family and support from the theoretical and practical aspects of sailing.
I know some may have attempted an audacious goal like this with little support. To me, this is not how I do things. All projects need meticulous planning, so I chose to adapt the same methodology I would use when carrying out any manner of projects.
I would like to touch on using YouTubers as a guide. After doing this for some time now, since I started planning, I have noticed that YouTubers are good for motivating you to embark on a project like this. Still, most of their videos are done to attract people, to get viewership, and ultimately to fund their adventure. I am not criticizing but merely stating that this is a simplified way of getting things done for critical planning and those who want to do this and/ or any audacious projects. There is more to be done in all these areas/ projects before one can embark on a journey like this.
Where is this resource available? ( other than YouTube)
The following are the resources I used.
1) Books
2) Forums online ( Facebook, WhatsApp groups)
3) Noonsite – an online site on everything related to cruising
4) Join sailing groups – for instance – Ocean Posse ( for the South Pacific destinations)
Resources
1. Books
In this area, I would like to thank a good friend and sailor, Dr Param and his wife, Yati, for all the books they passed me during the planning phase. The book I would outline as a ‘MUST’ to read for any would-be sailor is
- The Voyagers Handbook – Beth Leonard
- Jim Cornell – Ocean Atlas and World Cruising Routes
I also read books by Eric Forsyth, Ralph Naranjo, Nigel Calder, John Kitchener, Larry and Lyn Pardey, and Bernard Moistessier. There are other books and authors, but these are authors who probably made a larger impact than the rest.
They all have sections that may have impacted me more than other sections of the books. I recommend reading them and then selecting the sections that are most meaningful to you. Ultimately, these depend on the person making the trip, for example. Larry and Lyn Pardeys book, The Self Sufficient Sailor – whose mantra is to make the boats simple, which is extremely correct, but did not fit well with me. Theirs was done when things ( and Technology) were perhaps prohibitively expensive – e.g. watermakers, and they were ok with taking salt water showers, but this is NOT me. I believe some luxuries are permitted as long as you can afford them!
I think all these books offer elements that would appeal to different sets of people.
The key takeaway here is that we should know what we want.
Embarking on new endeavours is an exciting journey that requires the right motivation. Personally, I found my motivation in a captivating book that inspired me to take the leap. It's amazing how a book unrelated to sailing could have such a profound impact on my decision. I'm eager to embrace this new adventure with enthusiasm and determination!
The book "Half Time" by Bob Buford was introduced by someone who had a very negative experience while promoting this book in their own life.
This is a classic case where different messages differ for different persons.
2. Forums online
This is where I met quite several cruising friends. They have proven to be the best form of support and a source of invaluable assistance. I met Leslie Godfrey, who, together with her husband, Andrew, has made cruising their life. Although it is different for me, she has been a very good friend, without a doubt.
Many online groups cover various topics, from Starlink for sailors to tips on travelling with pets. However, the sheer number of discussions can sometimes become overwhelming, like the adage, "Too many cooks spoil the soup."
1) Noonsite
"This is definitely one of the best resources to use when planning a cruise. Most of the articles are written by members of the cruising community and provide essential details for novice sailors or anyone planning a trip to a specific country."
This site has been providing cruising tools to everyone for almost 20 years. It has a free and paid section, as more information is required to keep it current. This is inevitable, as information needs to be updated, and the site itself will require maintenance.
Having said that, I used Noonsite and found the information provided very handy.
2) Joining Sailing Groups
I became a member of the Ocean Cruising Club (OCC) two years before I left. This organization provides a wealth of information and has members all over the world. They also offer a mentorship program that connects members from different countries.
Before embarking on my Pacific Crossing leg, I also joined a group called the Ocean Posse. It's a seasonal group where members can discuss their plans, seek advice, and connect socially. I joined mainly to gather information on boats making the journey across the Pacific and to discuss potential routes. Since I plan to go solo, this seems like a good strategy.
