Pops, I just want to take moment to affirm you. You are the most humble human I have ever met. You posted this video for the family to see your journey, however, look at how many lives you’ve unexpectedly touched. I’m so incredibly proud of you! From building Free Spirit (11 days younger than me), to safely getting her across the Pacific. Mom, thanks for setting him up for success! Missing that beautiful vessel, but am excited for the next chapter. Love you!
You played a big roll in the journey, weather routing and talking to me every day on the sat phone. Your encouragement was invaluable. Next time, you go too!
I am Indian, having no connection to sailing or might not ever be any, but your video made me cry at the end. I am going through a hard times of my life now at the age of 31 and I am struggling to see what I really want in my life, but you sir lifted my spirits and helped opening my eyes to see the blessing I already have. Like you said "something worthwhile is not going to be easy", so I am gonna try my best to get out of these hardship.
Hello Mohammed. Thank you for watching the video, and for your touching comments. I'm glad it helped you, even a little bit. That's very heartwarming. You're still very young with a long life ahead of you, and time to fulfill your dreams. Circumstances always change. Things will get better. Never give up! God bless you and thank you again for your kind words.
Hello Mohammed, peace be with my brother. I can fully relate to your situation. I am 73 and my wife died 15 years ago and I have struggled with the same predicament as you. Only today I was talking with a friend who is 93, hoping that with his greater life experience he may be able to point me in the right direction. He could not, unfortunately. The only advice I can pass on to you is do not give up, meaning may come to you unexpectedly, just be there ready to grasp it. Cheers Ron
The human spirit for adventure lives in all of us. I'm turning 42 this month and I've been thinking "I'm feeling older, getting to old to do all these dream adventures I've had', then I see this and am moved beyond measure. Hiking/camping and mountain climbing are passions, seeing this at 66 living your dream is truly moving me, thank you. I think it's time to start bumping up all my 'maybe next year(s)' and start planning for the now. My next 'mini' backpacking adventure next week, will be in your name and adventuring spirit, thank you for sharing Dale. This has forever left a positive impression on me.
Maestro, I have read this several times and it just brings a huge smile to my face. Very heart-warming. This means so much to me. These adventures last a lifetime. I still think of this trip almost every day. I can't imagine living out my days having not done this. Fortunately, I have a very supportive wife and family. That helps tremendously. I wish you the very best in your future adventures, and I hope you post some videos. I would love to see them and hear about them. Take care my friend, and thank you so much for your kind words!
im 22. my biggest fear in life is getting to be older, seeing the sunset closing in, and realizing i didnt get everything done with the daylight that was given to me. I want my friends to experience some of these adventures too, but they are too busy playing video games or find any reason to say no. Seems like its gonna be a solo journey for a while longer, and thats fine. guess you "can't wait for a bigger boat"
@@matthewcastellano9229 Plan on doing an AT thru hike; last year at age 62 it's what I began. (Having a hip replaced at 50 had me "seeing" the last 3rd of my life.) If that suits you, consider the PCT and CDT to "get your Triple Crown." Oh, and take some Spanish so you'll feel comfortable on the Camino de Santiago - Frances! This coming fall it's where I'll be, in the north of Spain.
You are a brave soul. Someone asked what I did this afternoon and I said sailed to Hawaii! Wonderful. I especially liked that you were a simple vessel, no frills. Goes to show that you don’t need to be rich to do the things we enjoy. The dream is real. Thanks for sharing yours.
Hi from New Zealand. That trip took guts and I'm so pleased everything went well for you. I am 76 years old and hust stumbled across this story, I was crying at the point you pulled into the slip in Hawaii. Good luck for your future Dale.
Hi Mike! Thank you so much for the kind words! I'm 68 now, wondering how long I can sail for. I'm not ready to stop yet. We're looking for a bigger boat. Need more comfort now:). Thanks for watching us from New Zealand! I want to get down there some day.
@@j_rainsgoat3929 We sold her in Hawaii. It was intended as a one-way trip for her. It was time for us to get a larger boat, and for Free Spirit to get a younger, more flexible skipper:) She served us well for so long, it was really hard saying goodbye.
Thank you... I just turned 64 bones failing after 45 years of construction. Been feeling like.... well its over. But you show me its not!! I'd love to have a boat just like yours! Maybe begin a journey. Much love God Bless you Sir.
Thank you Keith! I appreciate you watching. I know what you mean about the bones. I think that's why I felt I had to go then. I'm glad I did it. I'm not sure how long I can sail for, but I still feel pretty good. Hopefully I have some good years left. I just need another boat now! Best wishes to you. Don't give up. New equipment can make it easier for us like, in-mast furling mainsail, electric winches, etc. It's not cheap, but I think that's what I'll look for in a new (used) boat. When you're out there sailing, post a video or two. I'd love to see it. God bless you to my friend.
Thanks Im 66 and picking up a boat in France next July 23. Im from New Zealand and going sale back to NZ. Watching you has made me even more excited. Never to old bravo my friend.
Hi JG! Wow! That sounds like an amazing trip! I wish all the best for you. I subscribed to you on the chance you post some videos of your trip. I would love to see it. Thank you My friend, for watching and commenting. I appreciate it very much!
Absolutely the finest video of a voyage I have ever seen. You, sir, are my hero. And you were a year younger than me when you made it. Congratulations on a successful trip .
In 1974 i went to Maui for a bicycle tour and in Lahaina met a fellow who had just sailed his 19 ft Trimaran to Maui from San Francisco. Another 16 year old had sailed his 26 ft 5,000 dollar Thunderbird sailboat from Santa Cruz to Lahaina :) 1974 waa a Great Year to be on Maui
Thanks very much Miles. Wow, a 19 foot trimaran is really tiny. Must have been quite a trip. I think it's always a good year to be in Maui. We went there for our honeymoon in 2000. Take care!
I grew up in Hawaii and was taken by the fact, Dale, that you sailed a trimaran that you built to the islands. With the problem with your standing rigging and relying on your head sail. You basically, completed your voyage in what amounted to be an ocean canoe with a cabin--so appropriate. I woke up this morning 3/29 at 4 am on the East Coast had my fill of world news and saw your video and dove in. At the Sunrise of day 20, I felt like you were taking me home. The other point that I love was the point about the Pacific--it is not at all like the Atlantic. Thanks for taking me along!! I am ready for what the world sends this direction, after I check my back stay.
This trip fulfilled a lifetime dream for me. It was very emotional, and I still think about it every day. Your comments brought tears to my eyes! And my wife's! I appreciate it so much. I love Hawaii. My dad was a Pan Am pilot and flew to Hawaii hundreds of times. He always wanted to sail over, but passed away at 50, having just bought the plans for a 46' Choy cat. I think it was 'now or never' for me. So I went for it. Thanks for the kind words, and I hope your day went well!
@@daleabowman1747 , we are the sum of our experiences, both great victories and sadness. I am sure that your father sailed with you. The best to your wife and entire family.
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Great video. No scantily dressed people with long lean tan super model bodies. No long spiritual walks on far flung beaches. Just a simple video of a "boat ride" in all its beauty and ugliness. LOVED IT. I really enjoyed this video.
What an amazing display of bravery and inspiration. You, Sir, have the market covered in brass. I hope Free Spirit finds an owner who is at one with her as much as you were.
That was really neat. Brings back many memories. BTW, my son was born September 5th, 1998, and we named him Kanoa, which means free spirit in Hawaiian. I might have known you when we were growing up in Newport. I was born in Honolulu February 8th 1957, and then before I was 2, we moved to Newport Beach right on the ocean front, about 7 or 8 houses south of the Santa Ana river jetties. My mom would take me over as a baby to watch the cranes putting the last rocks on as they were finishing it. My dad was a boat builder and surfboard builder. So upon moving back, he was shaping for Hobie surfboards and designing and building the boats for Newport boats, Cater Pyle's sailboat company at the time. He did the P-cat, the kite, the olympic fin, the flipper dingy, and the Cal cat among others and invented many new molding techniques to mass produce them. Upon arrival, in '57, Joe got a shop for surfboard and boat building on 31st and got things set up for us to move to Newport, and while he was doing all of the above, he built 3 catamaran yatchs for rudy choy, which all set records in the Ensenada race, and then he built our own 30ft racing/adventure cat, "Gusto", which had white hulls and wing with light blue decks like your free spirit. I went to Herb Hester's sailing school at the Bahia Corinthian Yatcht club, before they built the Balboa Bay Club over it, for three summers from bginning sailing to advanced racing. We sailed Gusto around california and the Channel islands, especially catalina, in the 60's. Then we shipped it to, and moved to Hawaii, in 1968, and we've lived here ever since. I'm 65 now, and my sister Katy passed away in 2016, my mom in 2017, and my dad last year in 2020. But watching your video brought back many good memories. Thanks for sharing them...
Wow. We have a lot in common. I moved to Newport (with my family) in 1968. My dad was a Pan Am pilot, so prior to that, we lived all over, like Germany, Australia, Scotland, and East Coast of USA. I love Newport. We also lived on Ocean Front, 200 E. But only for one year. I remember Newport Boats, and the P-Cats. I had a Unicorn A-Class cat, which I kept at 28th Street marina, when it was still sand! Anyway, I'm sorry for the family losses. The same happened to me and my wife. I'm 68 now, and have been the oldest member of my family for 13 years. Such is life. Back to the trip, which is one of the highlights of my life. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Best wishes to you!
Aaaah! I did not want it to end.... Well DONE, how inspirational & thank you for taking the time to share your amazing journey, 66 and balls of steel! He, He.
Well; that was an unexpected treat. I follow a few sailing channels and your video popped up in my suggested. Thank you so much for documenting your journey and uploading the video. An impressive journey in an impressive little boat with the heart of a battleship. You must be, and should be, proud of your achievements, both building her and doing so many miles in her over the years. Outstanding. Hope she found a good and appreciative home in Hawaii. All the best from South Africa.
Jack, I've been overwhelmed by the wonderful comments people have been leaving. Yours actually choked me up, and my wife. Thank you so much! I've often talked about her 'heart', but you described it perfectly. I've asked a lot of her over the years, and she's never let me down. Never. I watched a travel video of South Africa a few days ago. It's so beautiful! Someday we'll make it there. Thanks again.
@@daleabowman1747 You are welcome Dale. While I live in South Africa I am a Cornishman and an ex commercial fisherman. I was sailing dinghies before I could ride a bike. (literally). In Cornwall some would call your vessel a 'proper little ship' from the way she handled some pretty impressive swells. Hope she is being loved and enjoyed by her new owners and I hope you can be encouraged to post any upcoming adventures on a new boat perhaps...? (subscribed to your channel) Keep well.
@@cousinjack2841 We are actually looking for a new (used) catamaran, 35-40 feet. Unfortunately, there are very few in California. We will definitely post more videos in the future, even some older ones of Free Spirit. Thank you for subscribing! I haven't heard from the new owner since we sold her. But a friend of his told me he had just seen her, and she is 'still as beautiful as the day you sold her.' It is something I think about frequently. Keep well as well, Cousin Jack.
Never Ending Journey ...... for me ... I stopped the video with 200miles to go . So captivating . Haunting melodius music . I always find I'm disappointed to see land and civilization and after a dreamlike voyage of you and your boat of 30+ years .
Thank you so much Gregory. I appreciate your kind words. This was my first ocean crossing. I had cruised coastal waters, from California to Cabo San Lucas. But crossing an ocean is such an incredible feeling. I must say, I was happy to see land. The entire trip was the highlight of my life. Thanks for watching!
I’m 23 and learning how to sail. This is by far the most impressive trip I have seen and it has inspired me in all aspects of my life. “Something worthwhile is not going to be easy.”
Wonderful and remarkable! That almost identical trip has been my dream for 50 years. I won't make it now (76 years young) but I feel like I just did. Thank you so much. However, my wife is not pleased...she knows me well and fears and anticipates what is coming as we visit Hawaii next year. My sister moved from Canada to a coastal town in South Australia in 1972 and I promised her then that one day I would sail into her little harbour. A few years ago I made the fatal mistake of selling my O'Day 25. My plan was to look for a Flicka 20'. Maybe I will start looking again. You are now a legend!
What a wonderful comment and compliment! Thank you so much. I know exactly what you mean. We need a larger boat, so we started thinking of selling Free Spirit. It was such a tough decision, as she had been in my life, for most of my life! And four generations of our family. I was concerned that if we sold her, and were unable to buy another boat, my Hawaii dream would be gone. That's why I decided to do the trip on FS. I don't know how many more years I can sail, but we are looking for another, larger boat. Probably just stick to Catalina Island trips. But I can be happy with that now. Good luck with the Flicka. They're great boats.
@@daleabowman1747 On a related matter...for the past 24 years I have had a second career in video shooting and editing. I am very impressed with your footage selection, editing and music. I understand the time and detail it takes to edit this well and compliment either you or whoever did the work.
@@daleabowman1747 Don't sell FreeSpirit. You know her and all her attributes, the memories you have with family. Who knows what another "bigger" boat might bring. If you are going to just sail to Catalina and locally, why do you need a bigger boat - more hassle, more slip fees, bigger, heavier sails, more area to paint - Keep Free Spirit. Besides, you don't know if the person who might buy her will treasure her the way you have . Beautiful video by the way and well edited.
Great accomplishment. I am 65 going on 66 so it seems funny when people say how great it is to do at your AGE. Personally I reckon age just gives us more wisdom and experience to draw on. This is a great achievement at any age. Congrats
Thanks for sharing your journey Dale. Very touching. It wasnt just a journey to Hawaii but a journey between your and Free Spirite's life together from when you were younger. She was a vessel that traveled with you through your life's journey. Every chapter she was always with you. Fairwell Free Spirit...
You're so right. She's been part of my life for 45 years. My parents have sailed on her, as well as my wife's. Our three sons and their wives and 7 grandchildren! She was like another family member. It was so hard to say goodbye to her, but it was time. In my older age, I simply need a larger, more comfortable boat. Hopefully that will happen this year. Thank you for the kind words.
Wow! I was watching something completely different and stumbled across your video. I watched from start to finish! I'm a 56 year old guy in Fullerton, CA and sailing is on my bucket list. I am disabled but somehow, someway, I'm going to learn to sail. Maybe not all the way to Hawaii but Catalina at the least lol. I don't have the funds to do anything about it right now but God willing, hopefully it will happen. That is a beautiful little Trimaran you have built. She is obviously sea worthy and tested. The same can be said for you. You, like your little boat, are very special and capable. Well done. I digress. Amazing adventure!
Thank you so much Martin! I had to scour 150 clips to get the few I used. Thanks for watching, and commenting. I truly appreciate it…and you brought a big smile to my face!
The first time I returned to O'ahu was by sail. It was an emotional homecoming when I sighted Makapuu Point just like you did. I detected that same emotion in your video. Its beautiful.
As I mentioned in the video, I was last in O'ahu in 1965, with my parents and older brother. They are all gone now. Hawaii is a very special place to me. I will never forget that moment, seeing it from the boat. Thank you SO MUCH!
Good for you another one checked off the list. Thank you it was well worth my time. Can certainly feel your love for your free spirit. It was sad that you had to let her go. Glad you made it safely Dale.
Thank you very much! Your words are heartwarming. I appreciate you watching. I know it's kind of long. I trimmed it down from about 6 hours. Best regards to you!
Thank you sir, for taking us through your. It brings me tear at the end where you and free spirit will go seperate ways. I felt like leaving best friend. Thank you for giving me courage to start again what i had left long time ago, sailing.
Thank so much Azeze! Yes, I felt the same way when we said goodbye to her in Honolulu. It was a rational decision, but the emotional part of it was tremendous. Strange, the bond you can develop with a supposedly inanmiate object. Good luck with your sailing dreams. Making the decision to do it is the hardest part. It gets easier from there.
Wow thank you for appreciating my comment. I just returned from Maui this week and told my wife I want to attempt the voyage from Los Angeles to Hawaii on a sailboat. I am in my 50’s and stay fit so just need to learn to sail. Thank you again
Thank you so much. I felt it was now or never. I couldn't have done it without the support of my wife, Cindy. Thank you for watching, and the kind words!
Thanks very much for the kind words. Yes, the cabin is tiny. Okay when I was in my twenties. But now I need more comfort. Looking for a bigger boat. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for a fantastic video of your voyage, we all had a tear when you saw land at the end of your trip, you showed us all that you can do when you have the guts to follow your dreams.
That was an epic voyage Dale. Thanks for taking us along. Those were some awesome rainbows, and what looked like some of the most heartfelt hugs of all time, there on the dock. My eyes strangely got all watery and stuff....almost like I was about to cry. But we know that couldn't happen, must be allergies.
Thank you so much. Yes, I still get an occasional allergy attack when I watch the video. A lot of emotions still run through my mind (and my wife's). The rainbows, sunsets when I was lucky enough to get them, as well as sunrises were spectacular. Definitely highlights. Thank you for watching, and for your kind comments. Take care.
Aloha! I live on the big island, and every time I see a video of someone sailing here I have to watch it. You did not disappoint. I have had a dream of sailing for many years, but was feeling like I was getting to old to learn, but this year (2023), at 54, I started sailing lessons, best thing I’ve ever done for myself. One day I hope to cross oceans myself. You sir are an inspiration. Aloha nui!
Aloha Lonnie! Sorry for the late response. A bit wrapped up in Christmas this year. I loved your comment! Thank you so much! My wife and I just visited Hawaii in May. Flew from Oahu to Hawaii to visit friends in Pahoa. We rented a car and drove to Kona. We loved it, even talking about moving there some day. It's a beautiful island. Glad to hear you're taking sailing lessons and planning to do some long distance sailing. It's truly amazing. I wish you the best of luck in the future. Thank you again for your kind words. Much appreciated!
An amazing adventure. You can always tell how good a person is by the amount of love that surrounds them. To see your whole family wish you off, the concern and communication with your son and finally the hugs and kisses from your wife on the dock all gave me a twinge in the ol' tear ducts. I found your channel accidentally while researching catamarans and will now subscribe. Take care and I look forward to more journeys with you.
Thank you Dan, for that awesome comment! The support from my family and the ability to talk to Jason and Cindy every night on the satellite phone was a true blessing. I'm glad you found the video. We're looking for a larger boat now as well. A used 35 to 40 foot cat. Few and far between in S. California, but it will happen someday. Best regards to you and your family!
Beautiful video. Great story! Inspiration for us middle-aged folk that hear that clock ticking. I appreciate the edit. You tell the story with few words. Thanks for sharing your adventure!
I very much enjoyed your beautiful, informative, no-hype account of your crossing to Hawaii in your self-designed and built trimaran. A small boat sailor myself, I appreciate the design specs of Free Spirit. Small, simple, fast, and, from what I could tell, surprisingly dry. And even with just the jib, you were still averaging around 5 knots. On the aesthetic side, I really enjoyed how much time you showed just the water. Most sailing videos for some reason don't do that. That's the best part of sailing, to me. The swells rolling under the boat, the white caps gently breaking in the breeze, in an endless progression. It's a religious experience. Great voyage!
Having sailed most of my young life, doing 2 week voyages every summer with the family. I still can't fathom what you went through, the shear solitude. The one thing I can fathom though. The anxiety of those two big storms. Back in 1996, we were on our homeward leg of our yearly voyage and were presented with a dilemma, put the boat up, rent a car and make it back, or try and beat Hurricane Bertha to our home port in the Barneget bay. We decided to embark on a 14 hour journey into the jaws of a the sea effects of Hurricane Bertha, and being in those waves, that wind, was at most the terrifying and most exciting part of my childhood. My mother was scared, my dad was confident, and us kids, we were all down below losing our breakfast again and again. And watching you face those seas, with an injured boat, my respect for you is immense. I hope you get to enjoy many more times out on the ocean sailing.
Wow! What an incredible experience that must have been! I can only imagine, and be thankful that it never came to that on my trip. I'm glad you all survived to talk about it. Very scary. Thanks so much for watching and commenting. I truly appreciate it.
Dale, thank you for sharing the completion of a life long dream cruise. Some question not turning back after the backstay started to unravel. Only the sniper can make that decision. Well done. Enjoy the rest of your retirement!
Thanks James. I appreciate your comments. It would have been challenging to go back, about 550 miles upwind, with only the genoa and a broken backstay. The way I secured it wouldn't have allowed use of the main. But I did ponder it for a few hours before making the decision to proceed downwind. I also spoke to my wife and kids on the sat phone, so we had a consensus. Thanks so much for watching!
Pops, I just want to take moment to affirm you. You are the most humble human I have ever met. You posted this video for the family to see your journey, however, look at how many lives you’ve unexpectedly touched. I’m so incredibly proud of you! From building Free Spirit (11 days younger than me), to safely getting her across the Pacific. Mom, thanks for setting him up for success! Missing that beautiful vessel, but am excited for the next chapter. Love you!
You played a big roll in the journey, weather routing and talking to me every day on the sat phone. Your encouragement was invaluable. Next time, you go too!
Wonderful! We just watched your journey and thoroughly enjoyed it. Congratulations Dale 💙
@@svbelisi7639 Thanks so much Gillian! I appreciate it!
Me
A father’s greatest achievement is to have proud children
I am Indian, having no connection to sailing or might not ever be any, but your video made me cry at the end. I am going through a hard times of my life now at the age of 31 and I am struggling to see what I really want in my life, but you sir lifted my spirits and helped opening my eyes to see the blessing I already have. Like you said "something worthwhile is not going to be easy", so I am gonna try my best to get out of these hardship.
Hello Mohammed. Thank you for watching the video, and for your touching comments. I'm glad it helped you, even a little bit. That's very heartwarming. You're still very young with a long life ahead of you, and time to fulfill your dreams. Circumstances always change. Things will get better. Never give up! God bless you and thank you again for your kind words.
Hello Mohammed, peace be with my brother. I can fully relate to your situation. I am 73 and my wife died 15 years ago and I have struggled with the same predicament as you. Only today I was talking with a friend who is 93, hoping that with his greater life experience he may be able to point me in the right direction. He could not, unfortunately. The only advice I can pass on to you is do not give up, meaning may come to you unexpectedly, just be there ready to grasp it. Cheers Ron
go sailing , bro !
Great story - we need more adventurous and independent men like this gentleman!
Thank you so much! I am so very proud of my husbands accomplishments. Thank you for your meaningful message.
Thank you so much sir! Much appreciated.
Incredibly inspiring and humbling. Thank you Sir for sharing your experience.
Thank you so much for watching. And many thanks for the kind words. Truly appreciated.
The human spirit for adventure lives in all of us. I'm turning 42 this month and I've been thinking "I'm feeling older, getting to old to do all these dream adventures I've had', then I see this and am moved beyond measure. Hiking/camping and mountain climbing are passions, seeing this at 66 living your dream is truly moving me, thank you. I think it's time to start bumping up all my 'maybe next year(s)' and start planning for the now. My next 'mini' backpacking adventure next week, will be in your name and adventuring spirit, thank you for sharing Dale. This has forever left a positive impression on me.
Maestro, I have read this several times and it just brings a huge smile to my face. Very heart-warming. This means so much to me. These adventures last a lifetime. I still think of this trip almost every day. I can't imagine living out my days having not done this. Fortunately, I have a very supportive wife and family. That helps tremendously.
I wish you the very best in your future adventures, and I hope you post some videos. I would love to see them and hear about them. Take care my friend, and thank you so much for your kind words!
im 22. my biggest fear in life is getting to be older, seeing the sunset closing in, and realizing i didnt get everything done with the daylight that was given to me. I want my friends to experience some of these adventures too, but they are too busy playing video games or find any reason to say no. Seems like its gonna be a solo journey for a while longer, and thats fine. guess you "can't wait for a bigger boat"
@@matthewcastellano9229 Plan on doing an AT thru hike; last year at age 62 it's what I began. (Having a hip replaced at 50 had me "seeing" the last 3rd of my life.) If that suits you, consider the PCT and CDT to "get your Triple Crown." Oh, and take some Spanish so you'll feel comfortable on the Camino de Santiago - Frances! This coming fall it's where I'll be, in the north of Spain.
Hope you have awesome adventures bro
You are a brave soul. Someone asked what I did this afternoon and I said sailed to Hawaii! Wonderful. I especially liked that you were a simple vessel, no frills. Goes to show that you don’t need to be rich to do the things we enjoy. The dream is real. Thanks for sharing yours.
Thank you so much for that beautiful comment! I appreciate it so much. Thank you for watching!
I got the auto pilot just prior to leaving...on-line at Defender.
Hi from New Zealand. That trip took guts and I'm so pleased everything went well for you. I am 76 years old and hust stumbled across this story, I was crying at the point you pulled into the slip in Hawaii. Good luck for your future Dale.
Hi Mike! Thank you so much for the kind words! I'm 68 now, wondering how long I can sail for. I'm not ready to stop yet. We're looking for a bigger boat. Need more comfort now:). Thanks for watching us from New Zealand! I want to get down there some day.
@@daleabowman1747 did you sale the boat in Hawaii or sail it back?
@@j_rainsgoat3929 We sold her in Hawaii. It was intended as a one-way trip for her. It was time for us to get a larger boat, and for Free Spirit to get a younger, more flexible skipper:) She served us well for so long, it was really hard saying goodbye.
Thank you... I just turned 64 bones failing after 45 years of construction. Been feeling like.... well its over. But you show me its not!! I'd love to have a boat just like yours! Maybe begin a journey. Much love God Bless you Sir.
Thank you Keith! I appreciate you watching. I know what you mean about the bones. I think that's why I felt I had to go then. I'm glad I did it. I'm not sure how long I can sail for, but I still feel pretty good. Hopefully I have some good years left. I just need another boat now! Best wishes to you. Don't give up. New equipment can make it easier for us like, in-mast furling mainsail, electric winches, etc. It's not cheap, but I think that's what I'll look for in a new (used) boat. When you're out there sailing, post a video or two. I'd love to see it. God bless you to my friend.
Yes I am Also 66..Still able..❤🎉😮 Congratulations amazingly wonderderful
Thank you so much Alberto! We have a lot of living still to do!
I appreciate you watching and commenting.
Take care!
Thanks Im 66 and picking up a boat in France next July 23. Im from New Zealand and going sale back to NZ. Watching you has made me even more excited. Never to old bravo my friend.
Hi JG! Wow! That sounds like an amazing trip! I wish all the best for you. I subscribed to you on the chance you post some videos of your trip. I would love to see it.
Thank you My friend, for watching and commenting. I appreciate it very much!
@@daleabowman1747 Thanks and youre welcome.
Absolutely the finest video of a voyage I have ever seen. You, sir, are my hero. And you were a year younger than me when you made it. Congratulations on a successful trip .
You almost made me cry. What a beautiful compliment! Thank you so much Ronald! An old guy on an old boat, but the adventure of my life!
So footage of the 1st storm would be awesome mid way through video hoping the 2nd was captured.
In 1974 i went to Maui for a bicycle tour and in Lahaina met a fellow who had just sailed his 19 ft Trimaran to Maui from San Francisco. Another 16 year old had sailed his 26 ft 5,000 dollar Thunderbird sailboat from Santa Cruz to Lahaina :) 1974 waa a Great Year to be on Maui
Thanks very much Miles. Wow, a 19 foot trimaran is really tiny. Must have been quite a trip. I think it's always a good year to be in Maui. We went there for our honeymoon in 2000.
Take care!
I grew up in Hawaii and was taken by the fact, Dale, that you sailed a trimaran that you built to the islands. With the problem with your standing rigging and relying on your head sail. You basically, completed your voyage in what amounted to be an ocean canoe with a cabin--so appropriate. I woke up this morning 3/29 at 4 am on the East Coast had my fill of world news and saw your video and dove in. At the Sunrise of day 20, I felt like you were taking me home. The other point that I love was the point about the Pacific--it is not at all like the Atlantic. Thanks for taking me along!! I am ready for what the world sends this direction, after I check my back stay.
This trip fulfilled a lifetime dream for me. It was very emotional, and I still think about it every day. Your comments brought tears to my eyes! And my wife's! I appreciate it so much. I love Hawaii. My dad was a Pan Am pilot and flew to Hawaii hundreds of times. He always wanted to sail over, but passed away at 50, having just bought the plans for a 46' Choy cat. I think it was 'now or never' for me. So I went for it. Thanks for the kind words, and I hope your day went well!
@@daleabowman1747 , we are the sum of our experiences, both great victories and sadness. I am sure that your father sailed with you. The best to your wife and entire family.
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Great video. No scantily dressed people with long lean tan super model bodies. No long spiritual walks on far flung beaches. Just a simple video of a "boat ride" in all its beauty and ugliness. LOVED IT. I really enjoyed this video.
Hi Darren! Thank you so much. I'm glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for letting me know! Take care.
What an amazing display of bravery and inspiration. You, Sir, have the market covered in brass.
I hope Free Spirit finds an owner who is at one with her as much as you were.
Thank you so much Steven!!!
We did sell her in Hawaii, to a local sailor.
I appreciate your comments very much!
How much did it sell for? And are they worth more less money there versus California?@@daleabowman1747
What an absolute legend!
Thank you so much Glaucio!
That was really neat. Brings back many memories. BTW, my son was born September 5th, 1998, and we named him Kanoa, which means free spirit in Hawaiian. I might have known you when we were growing up in Newport. I was born in Honolulu February 8th 1957, and then before I was 2, we moved to Newport Beach right on the ocean front, about 7 or 8 houses south of the Santa Ana river jetties. My mom would take me over as a baby to watch the cranes putting the last rocks on as they were finishing it. My dad was a boat builder and surfboard builder. So upon moving back, he was shaping for Hobie surfboards and designing and building the boats for Newport boats, Cater Pyle's sailboat company at the time. He did the P-cat, the kite, the olympic fin, the flipper dingy, and the Cal cat among others and invented many new molding techniques to mass produce them. Upon arrival, in '57, Joe got a shop for surfboard and boat building on 31st and got things set up for us to move to Newport, and while he was doing all of the above, he built 3 catamaran yatchs for rudy choy, which all set records in the Ensenada race, and then he built our own 30ft racing/adventure cat, "Gusto", which had white hulls and wing with light blue decks like your free spirit. I went to Herb Hester's sailing school at the Bahia Corinthian Yatcht club, before they built the Balboa Bay Club over it, for three summers from bginning sailing to advanced racing. We sailed Gusto around california and the Channel islands, especially catalina, in the 60's. Then we shipped it to, and moved to Hawaii, in 1968, and we've lived here ever since. I'm 65 now, and my sister Katy passed away in 2016, my mom in 2017, and my dad last year in 2020. But watching your video brought back many good memories. Thanks for sharing them...
Wow. We have a lot in common. I moved to Newport (with my family) in 1968. My dad was a Pan Am pilot, so prior to that, we lived all over, like Germany, Australia, Scotland, and East Coast of USA. I love Newport. We also lived on Ocean Front, 200 E. But only for one year. I remember Newport Boats, and the P-Cats. I had a Unicorn A-Class cat, which I kept at 28th Street marina, when it was still sand! Anyway, I'm sorry for the family losses. The same happened to me and my wife. I'm 68 now, and have been the oldest member of my family for 13 years. Such is life. Back to the trip, which is one of the highlights of my life. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Best wishes to you!
Aaaah! I did not want it to end.... Well DONE, how inspirational & thank you for taking the time to share your amazing journey, 66 and balls of steel! He, He.
Thank you so much sir! I appreciate it very much.
Well; that was an unexpected treat. I follow a few sailing channels and your video popped up in my suggested. Thank you so much for documenting your journey and uploading the video. An impressive journey in an impressive little boat with the heart of a battleship. You must be, and should be, proud of your achievements, both building her and doing so many miles in her over the years. Outstanding. Hope she found a good and appreciative home in Hawaii. All the best from South Africa.
Jack, I've been overwhelmed by the wonderful comments people have been leaving. Yours actually choked me up, and my wife. Thank you so much! I've often talked about her 'heart', but you described it perfectly. I've asked a lot of her over the years, and she's never let me down. Never. I watched a travel video of South Africa a few days ago. It's so beautiful! Someday we'll make it there. Thanks again.
@@daleabowman1747 You are welcome Dale. While I live in South Africa I am a Cornishman and an ex commercial fisherman. I was sailing dinghies before I could ride a bike. (literally). In Cornwall some would call your vessel a 'proper little ship' from the way she handled some pretty impressive swells. Hope she is being loved and enjoyed by her new owners and I hope you can be encouraged to post any upcoming adventures on a new boat perhaps...? (subscribed to your channel) Keep well.
@@cousinjack2841 We are actually looking for a new (used) catamaran, 35-40 feet. Unfortunately, there are very few in California. We will definitely post more videos in the future, even some older ones of Free Spirit. Thank you for subscribing! I haven't heard from the new owner since we sold her. But a friend of his told me he had just seen her, and she is 'still as beautiful as the day you sold her.' It is something I think about frequently. Keep well as well, Cousin Jack.
Never Ending Journey ...... for me ... I stopped the video with 200miles to go . So captivating . Haunting melodius music . I always find I'm disappointed to see land and civilization and after a dreamlike voyage of you and your boat of 30+ years .
Thank you so much Gregory. I appreciate your kind words. This was my first ocean crossing. I had cruised coastal waters, from California to Cabo San Lucas. But crossing an ocean is such an incredible feeling. I must say, I was happy to see land. The entire trip was the highlight of my life. Thanks for watching!
Dale, You have always AMAZED me! You should be PROUD of yourself, As your Adoring fans we all are "PROUD" for you!!
😘
I’m 23 and learning how to sail. This is by far the most impressive trip I have seen and it has inspired me in all aspects of my life. “Something worthwhile is not going to be easy.”
Hi Jose Jr! Thank you so much my friend! That really means a lot to me. I appreciate it more than I can say!
Thank you for sharing your amazing journey with all of us💞 I cried as you were 6 miles from Diamond Head. What a beautiful amazing journey at 66!!
I still get emotional when I see it. I appreciate your comments very much! Thank you so much!
Quite the experience - thanks for sharing
Thank you!
Wonderful and remarkable! That almost identical trip has been my dream for 50 years. I won't make it now (76 years young) but I feel like I just did. Thank you so much. However, my wife is not pleased...she knows me well and fears and anticipates what is coming as we visit Hawaii next year. My sister moved from Canada to a coastal town in South Australia in 1972 and I promised her then that one day I would sail into her little harbour. A few years ago I made the fatal mistake of selling my O'Day 25. My plan was to look for a Flicka 20'. Maybe I will start looking again. You are now a legend!
What a wonderful comment and compliment! Thank you so much. I know exactly what you mean. We need a larger boat, so we started thinking of selling Free Spirit. It was such a tough decision, as she had been in my life, for most of my life! And four generations of our family. I was concerned that if we sold her, and were unable to buy another boat, my Hawaii dream would be gone. That's why I decided to do the trip on FS. I don't know how many more years I can sail, but we are looking for another, larger boat. Probably just stick to Catalina Island trips. But I can be happy with that now. Good luck with the Flicka. They're great boats.
@@daleabowman1747 On a related matter...for the past 24 years I have had a second career in video shooting and editing. I am very impressed with your footage selection, editing and music. I understand the time and detail it takes to edit this well and compliment either you or whoever did the work.
@@Wizardman646 Wow! Thank you for that. This is my first video edit. And the learning curve was like sailing to Hawaii! I appreciate your kind words.
@@daleabowman1747 So long as you are breathing and on your own two feet, you can sail
@@daleabowman1747 Don't sell FreeSpirit. You know her and all her attributes, the memories you have with family. Who knows what another "bigger" boat might bring. If you are going to just sail to Catalina and locally, why do you need a bigger boat - more hassle, more slip fees, bigger, heavier sails, more area to paint - Keep Free Spirit. Besides, you don't know if the person who might buy her will treasure her the way you have .
Beautiful video by the way and well edited.
Wow. Thanks for sharing this
Thank you so much for watching Rebecca!
Glad you arrived safely. It's a beautiful story and thanks for sharing. Such great satisfaction sailing a boat made with your own hands!
Thank you so much. I truly appreciate your comments. It was very special making the trip on Free Spirit.
Glad you had a safe journey God be with you
@@bensymington5550 Thank you sir...I feel He was with me all the way across.
Great accomplishment.
I am 65 going on 66 so it seems funny when people say how great it is to do at your AGE.
Personally I reckon age just gives us more wisdom and experience to draw on.
This is a great achievement at any age.
Congrats
Hi Neville. Thanks very much. I agree with you about age. I think it helped me more than hurt me on this crossing. Thanks for the kind words.
These are the things that make life worth living! I'm so happy you got to fulfill this dream of yours.
Thank you Chris, I truly appreciate your comments.
Thank you Dale for taking me to hawaii, dreams do come true
Thank you so much! I appreciate your comment.
Take care!
That was incredible. Thank you for documenting your trip for us.
Thank you Sparkey!
Happiness comes when your work and words are of benefit to yourself and others.
Thank you!
I fall asleep watching this on my phone. Very good video my friend 👍
I've done that once or twice myself! Thanks for watching, my friend.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
And thank you sir, for watching and commenting. I appreciate it.
Wow. What an adventure,and on a home build. My hat goes off to you and your testicular fortitude. Amazing!
Thank you Tom! I appreciate it.
No question God gave you a gift the gift of arrival
Yes indeed Thomas! I had Him with me all the way across. I still think about it almost every day. I will never forget it.
Thank you for watching.
Thanks for sharing your journey Dale. Very touching. It wasnt just a journey to Hawaii but a journey between your and Free Spirite's life together from when you were younger. She was a vessel that traveled with you through your life's journey. Every chapter she was always with you. Fairwell Free Spirit...
You're so right. She's been part of my life for 45 years. My parents have sailed on her, as well as my wife's. Our three sons and their wives and 7 grandchildren! She was like another family member. It was so hard to say goodbye to her, but it was time. In my older age, I simply need a larger, more comfortable boat. Hopefully that will happen this year. Thank you for the kind words.
No lack of inspiration or lessons in this one... Truly enjoyed it!
Thanks so much Jm. I appreciate you letting me know!
Wow! I was watching something completely different and stumbled across your video. I watched from start to finish! I'm a 56 year old guy in Fullerton, CA and sailing is on my bucket list. I am disabled but somehow, someway, I'm going to learn to sail. Maybe not all the way to Hawaii but Catalina at the least lol. I don't have the funds to do anything about it right now but God willing, hopefully it will happen. That is a beautiful little Trimaran you have built. She is obviously sea worthy and tested. The same can be said for you. You, like your little boat, are very special and capable. Well done. I digress. Amazing adventure!
Thank you so much! That means a lot to me. Best of luck on your 'bucket list'. It will happen.
I know a guy with one arm and one leg and he’s solo sales
@@meandmybuddy964 That's amazing. When sailing gets in your blood, it's hard to leave it.
Their are some organzations like Sailability which can help you achieve your sailing dreams as a sailor with disabilities,
Thanks for taking us along for the sail! ALOHA!!!
Thanks for watching Jimmy! Aloha!
thank you for sharing your adventure to us.
Thanks for watching!
Nice ... you are a brave man.
Thanks so much!
Congratulations ... and thank for your share ;)
Thank you!
Love the video, the sound track gave me the hives.
Thanks for watching Roger.
I’ve had hives before. Terrible.
I’ll do better next time.
Excellent risk management, and a great trip, Bravo!
I appreciate that Jenny! Thanks very much!
Ow I did cry amazing thank you
You made my day. Thank you again Teresa.
Finally a sailor who's not filming himself most of the time. Great video sir!
Thank you so much Martin!
I had to scour 150 clips to get the few I used.
Thanks for watching, and commenting. I truly appreciate it…and you brought a big smile to my face!
@@daleabowman1747 You made me smile too 🙂!
Great Journey on a broken strand of line. Wow.
Thank you sir!
The first time I returned to O'ahu was by sail. It was an emotional homecoming when I sighted Makapuu Point just like you did.
I detected that same emotion in your video. Its beautiful.
As I mentioned in the video, I was last in O'ahu in 1965, with my parents and older brother. They are all gone now. Hawaii is a very special place to me. I will never forget that moment, seeing it from the boat. Thank you SO MUCH!
I didn't skip every second of this video❤️
That means a lot to me Bryan. Thanks so much.
Awesome adventure. Thank you for sharing your journey.
Thank you so much!
Good for you another one checked off the list. Thank you it was well worth my time. Can certainly feel your love for your free spirit. It was sad that you had to let her go. Glad you made it safely Dale.
Thank you very much! Your words are heartwarming. I appreciate you watching. I know it's kind of long. I trimmed it down from about 6 hours. Best regards to you!
Incredible. Thank you for taking us along.
Thank you Nick. I appreciate it.
I really like your sharing this adventure with us. Thanks, FD
Hi Francis! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Thank you very much for watching, and for your kind words. I truly appreciate it.
What a great adventure.
Congratulations on drinking all that water. The internal bilge pump must have been working overtime.
That was the hardest part of the trip!
Thank you sir, for taking us through your. It brings me tear at the end where you and free spirit will go seperate ways. I felt like leaving best friend. Thank you for giving me courage to start again what i had left long time ago, sailing.
Thank so much Azeze! Yes, I felt the same way when we said goodbye to her in Honolulu. It was a rational decision, but the emotional part of it was tremendous. Strange, the bond you can develop with a supposedly inanmiate object. Good luck with your sailing dreams. Making the decision to do it is the hardest part. It gets easier from there.
Absolutely incredible. Thank you for sharing your journey.
Thank you! I appreciate that.
Brought tears to my eyes. Thank You!
Thank you so much Robert! I truly appreciate that. Thanks for watching!
You brought great joy to my heart! Best line was "nothing worthwhile is easy."
I love that line too. It is so true. My uncle used to say It's a great life if you don't weaken". Have
a great day!
Thank you so much Guy, I truly appreciate it!
Enjoyed this so much I'm back a year later to watch it again!
I'm so glad to hear that. I appreciate you very much.
Great job Free Spirit and Dale ! Two old friends sharing an adventure ! Congrats !! That was awesome !!
Thank you so much! I truly appreciate that.
I absolutely love this story.
Thank you SO MUCH! And I loved your comment! Thank you for watching!
Wow thank you for appreciating my comment. I just returned from Maui this week and told my wife I want to attempt the voyage from Los Angeles to Hawaii on a sailboat. I am in my 50’s and stay fit so just need to learn to sail. Thank you again
@@oei301 That sounds great! Let me know when you go, or if you have any questions I could help you with!
Wow what a spectacular adventure Dale! True joy to watch from beginning to end!
Thank you SO much Dag! I couldn't ask for more than that. It really means a lot to me. Glad you enjoyed it!
Hay Dag superstar
👍I like your beautiful Trimaran with blue and white colors🎉💪and wish you safely arrive Hawaii ❤
Thank you so much Roger! Yes, we did arrive safely. It was an exciting trip. Thank you for watching!
What an incredible adventure that had to have been.you pulled it off at 66 when most folks think they’re done with them at 40.hats off to you,sir !
Hi Nick. Thanks for the kind words! I truly appreciate it!
This pop up on my recommendation, and must say what a amazing journey. Thanks for sharing
Thank you Bob I appreciate you watching and commenting!
What a fantastic adventure. Kudos to you sir on realizing your dream, not many are so lucky.👍 😎
Thank you so much. I felt it was now or never. I couldn't have done it without the support of my wife, Cindy. Thank you for watching, and the kind words!
She's a beautiful sturdy little boat but that cabin space for that crossing!
Much respect.
Thanks very much for the kind words.
Yes, the cabin is tiny. Okay when I was in my twenties. But now I need more comfort. Looking for a bigger boat.
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for a fantastic video of your voyage, we all had a tear when you saw land at the end of your trip, you showed us all that you can do when you have the guts to follow your dreams.
Hi Bryan. Thank you for the wonderful comments. I truly appreciate it!
That was an epic voyage Dale. Thanks for taking us along. Those were some awesome rainbows, and what looked like some of the most heartfelt hugs of all time, there on the dock. My eyes strangely got all watery and stuff....almost like I was about to cry. But we know that couldn't happen, must be allergies.
Thank you so much. Yes, I still get an occasional allergy attack when I watch the video. A lot of emotions still run through my mind (and my wife's). The rainbows, sunsets when I was lucky enough to get them, as well as sunrises were spectacular. Definitely highlights. Thank you for watching, and for your kind comments. Take care.
Just a really great adventure, a real nail biter, well done, thanks for a great job filming.
Thank you John! That means a lot to me.
Aloha! I live on the big island, and every time I see a video of someone sailing here I have to watch it. You did not disappoint. I have had a dream of sailing for many years, but was feeling like I was getting to old to learn, but this year (2023), at 54, I started sailing lessons, best thing I’ve ever done for myself. One day I hope to cross oceans myself. You sir are an inspiration. Aloha nui!
Aloha Lonnie! Sorry for the late response. A bit wrapped up in Christmas this year. I loved your comment! Thank you so much! My wife and I just visited Hawaii in May. Flew from Oahu to Hawaii to visit friends in Pahoa. We rented a car and drove to Kona. We loved it, even talking about moving there some day. It's a beautiful island.
Glad to hear you're taking sailing lessons and planning to do some long distance sailing. It's truly amazing. I wish you the best of luck in the future.
Thank you again for your kind words. Much appreciated!
Amazing... Raw Courage... Alone! Nice...glad you're ok
Thanks Bradley! I appreciate that very much!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us xx
I appreciate that very much. Thank you!
what an epic trip! Free Spirit handled those waves well!
Thanks so much Alex!
Thanks for posting this video and showing what i can expect in the near future once i finalize my boat purchase.
Lino, it sounds like you have some adventures ahead of you! I'm a little envious! Best of luck to you my friend!
What a fantastic adventure! I was drawn into a lifelong fascination with ocean sailing back in 1972 when I read Dove by Robin Lee Graham.
Thank you so much! I read Dove about the same time. Great story. Thanks for watching!
After all this time….amazing. Thank you.
Better late than never, right? Thank you so much. I appreciate you watching the video and your comment!
hats off to your courage
Thank you sir!
Someone got an amazing little sailboat! This was a great watch.
Thank you very much! Very kind words. I appreciate you watching and commenting.
Take care!
An amazing adventure. You can always tell how good a person is by the amount of love that surrounds them. To see your whole family wish you off, the concern and communication with your son and finally the hugs and kisses from your wife on the dock all gave me a twinge in the ol' tear ducts. I found your channel accidentally while researching catamarans and will now subscribe. Take care and I look forward to more journeys with you.
Thank you Dan, for that awesome comment! The support from my family and the ability to talk to Jason and Cindy every night on the satellite phone was a true blessing.
I'm glad you found the video. We're looking for a larger boat now as well. A used 35 to 40 foot cat. Few and far between in S. California, but it will happen someday. Best regards to you and your family!
Goodonya! Great story.
Thanks so much Craig! I appreciate that.
Oh my gosh, what a journey!! Thanks for taking us along on your adventure Captain, it was amazing!!
Thanks so much Douglas! And thanks for watching! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
What a great saga. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much...
Epic. Too risky for me but I admire your courage to take that on. We’ll done
Thanks very much Rudy (my father's and grandfather's name)! I appreciate you watching.
Thank u.for the virtual sailing.That awesome.
Thank you very much Adelo! I appreciate you watching the video and your kind comment.
Beautiful video. Great story! Inspiration for us middle-aged folk that hear that clock ticking. I appreciate the edit. You tell the story with few words. Thanks for sharing your adventure!
I appreciate the comment. Thanks very much Carl!
That was something. Wow, Dale, you da man! Very gutsy thing to do at 66. My hat's off to you, Sir!
Thanks so much Phil! I appreciate it!
Great passage and documenting this glad to see this! God Bless
Thanks very much Jason!
So cool to watch . Thanks for sharing your adventure.
Thank you so much Kurt! I truly appreciate that!
Holy crap! Incredible journey. I can only imagine what it must have been like. Well done.
Thanks very much!
I very much enjoyed your beautiful, informative, no-hype account of your crossing to Hawaii in your self-designed and built trimaran. A small boat sailor myself, I appreciate the design specs of Free Spirit. Small, simple, fast, and, from what I could tell, surprisingly dry. And even with just the jib, you were still averaging around 5 knots.
On the aesthetic side, I really enjoyed how much time you showed just the water. Most sailing videos for some reason don't do that. That's the best part of sailing, to me. The swells rolling under the boat, the white caps gently breaking in the breeze, in an endless progression. It's a religious experience.
Great voyage!
Thanks so much Robert! I truly appreciate your comment. I agree with you on the water aspect. I can sit and watch it for hours.
Well done - definitely something to be very proud of - congratulations
Thank you very much!
an adventure of a lifetime, thanks for sharing …..most important in life is to live the dreams…..
Thank you Viviane! I couldn't agree more! Glad you enjoyed it...
Never sailed a day in my life. But I really genuinely enjoy these type of videos. Wish I could do it.
Thank you so much Gabriel! I appreciate you watching and commenting.
Ok, I’m 59 male and I got teary eyed when you pulled into the slip, what an adventure👍
Thank you Railbug62! I appreciate it very much!
Having sailed most of my young life, doing 2 week voyages every summer with the family. I still can't fathom what you went through, the shear solitude. The one thing I can fathom though. The anxiety of those two big storms. Back in 1996, we were on our homeward leg of our yearly voyage and were presented with a dilemma, put the boat up, rent a car and make it back, or try and beat Hurricane Bertha to our home port in the Barneget bay. We decided to embark on a 14 hour journey into the jaws of a the sea effects of Hurricane Bertha, and being in those waves, that wind, was at most the terrifying and most exciting part of my childhood. My mother was scared, my dad was confident, and us kids, we were all down below losing our breakfast again and again. And watching you face those seas, with an injured boat, my respect for you is immense. I hope you get to enjoy many more times out on the ocean sailing.
Wow! What an incredible experience that must have been! I can only imagine, and be thankful that it never came to that on my trip. I'm glad you all survived to talk about it. Very scary. Thanks so much for watching and commenting. I truly appreciate it.
What an awesome video I enjoyed every moment of it thanks
Thank you very much Donald. I appreciate that so much!
Dale, thank you for sharing the completion of a life long dream cruise. Some question not turning back after the backstay started to unravel. Only the sniper can make that decision. Well done. Enjoy the rest of your retirement!
Thanks James. I appreciate your comments. It would have been challenging to go back, about 550 miles upwind, with only the genoa and a broken backstay. The way I secured it wouldn't have allowed use of the main. But I did ponder it for a few hours before making the decision to proceed downwind. I also spoke to my wife and kids on the sat phone, so we had a consensus. Thanks so much for watching!
I am touched by this story. Thank you for sharing your incredible journey. I was so happy to see you reunited with your family at the end. Thank you!
Thank you so much! That means a lot to me.