What I appreciate most about you two is your willingness to be vulnerable and share the good, bad and goofs with us. Knowing full well there will be the people out there who admonish you for being......fill in the blank with the any negative adjective of choice. Like others have said, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy the sailing videos since it's something I will never do, but you proved me wrong. I think I am enjoying them more. I find your videos well edited, entertaining and there's always a smile or two or three while watching. Keep up the good work and looking forward to your next video, Valerie
I started watching you guys because of my love of road trips, and once you switched to the boat I figured that I would just unsubscribe and move on. That did not happen, because I really discovered how much I love your personalities and your honesty about everything!! Not ever going to get a boat OF ANY KIND, but just wanted you to know that I totally enjoy your videos, and I wish you and your "fur babies" much luck and success in your journeys!!
One of the best RUclips channels ever, Reguardless of camping or Sailing. They are naturals on camera and fun to watch. I admire their spirit and their honesty and Open this .
I am so glad to see you realize that asking the repair guy to add on a lot of little jobs adds up and is not the contractor's fault when the bill adds up. Awesome guys. Not many people understand that.
You two are great. Sorry about your expensive learning experience. I watch everyone of your videos and appreciate the humor you put into them. Just keep sailing. The winds will blow the problems away.
I really like your candor and willingness to let others see the vulnerability that all of us feel when trying something new. I could care less about sailing, but i care much about the adventures you embark on. Keep it coming please.
Nice job, guys. I'm impressed that you're able to view these initial costs as learning lessons and to not (at least to us) cry too much about it. I know people who have literal tantrums when they suffer sticker shock. One positive is that all these little things that you had fixed are now fixed, and should not be a problem for a while. When they do become problems in the future I expect you two will be seasoned enough to easily tackle them, which means the rest of get to see another video! Enjoy your shakedown, and catch some fish.
Bright side....The work is done, you won't have to replace so much at once again and now it's time to set sail and enjoy your new lives. Can't wait to see some fun videos of the adventures you gus will be taking....
Wow guys, this has been a LOT of time, effort and money over the last 6 months or so. Finally, you're ready to do some sailing!! Congratulations on sticking to your guns and making it through. Hope it's all that you wish for and you have the time of your lives!
You have certainly dove into the deep end of the pool! The lessons are valuable - but expensive on a large boat - and you two are very bright and motivated students. Nikki, you just dive into everything and come up smiling, both of you actually. I love your attitude and I know how much frustration you must feel. Short Story: I bought a 1970 MG Midget (new) when I was a mere 21 years old and knew nothing about cars. When I got my first bill for routine (!!!!) service (there may have been an item for brake shoes and socks - how would I know??), I almost fainted. The car was cheap, the maintenance WAS NOT. I had no idea where to turn. I struck up a conversation with a guy who also had an older MG who told me to join the MG club. What a breakthrough! I was the only 'girl' in the club and all those MG guys were more than happy to teach me all about SU carbs, shocks... etc. I never went back to the dealer again. You are now there. Join some forums and keep an eye peeled. Everything on a boat breaks. Everything on a boat can be fixed - and you two can do it. I'm sure you get all sorts of advice, but you should listen to this advice (really): If you don't have it, get a copy of Nigel Calder's Marine Diesel Engines - hardback, updated in 2006. Read it cover to cover BEFORE something breaks. Expensive book new, but if you hit a Boater's Resale shop, you can pick it up cheap. Get the updated one. Calder has also written some others and I have the electrical one too. We hope to see you out there! Fair Winds and Following Seas! Cap'n Jan
I spent my childhood down the cape with my 17 cousins. We had access to many different boats. I'm now 60 and on dialysis and miss time spent on the ocean. I am living thru you and your adventures! Can't wait to see whats next! Happy Sailing!
I got a Phantom 3 Advanced last December and every time I fly it I gain confidence in it's return. All my issues have been with trees and structures .... no issues what so ever flying over water so you're in an ideal spot to capture that bird's eye view of your anchorages.
My wife and I are moving to the Caribbean when I retire in a few years. I was researching the pros and cons of boat ownership and your videos have definitely given me a LOT to consider. Thank you for allowing us to see your maturation into true sailors! I wish you both all the luck in the world!
Thank you for sharing what you learned from some mistakes. No doubt you've saved me from making some of the same boo-boo's and that I'm not as bright about this stuff as I thought. You two are an enjoyable listen and give out good commonsense advice.....and I thank you once again!
When ya'll first announced this boat thing I thought you were absolutely crazy and in way over your head, but I'm happy to say you guys proved me wrong. Honestly, I'm super excited for you and can't wait to see all the beautiful footage from this part of your journey.
Thank you for being brutally honest with your experiences. We all area ALWAYS learning. We all have the "duh" moments as to "why did I first not do (fill in blank) and safe some money. You honesty goes a long way in helping others. Really! Great job!
Thank you so much for this. I'm so grateful that the two of you stopped making "everything is cheerful puppydogs and rainbows" videos and started making some more honest ones. I am very frustrated with the lack of progress on my tiny house project and the delays and setbacks I have been experiencing. But, seeing this video really made me feel better. It reminded me that delays and missing deadlines and is one of those frustrations that EVERYONE seems to experience when undertaking big projects. Best to just chill out and not let it bother you too much. I still have no idea when my builder will be done, but this video will at least let me sleep easier. Thanks again, and I look forward to your next update.
Hey guys, thanks for all the info, don't get beat down by all the assholes leaving negative messages. Your videos are fantastic and much appreciated by my family!
That's why there's the saying, "A boat is a hole in the water into which you pour money." Great video! Have a great trip to the Bahamas! Can't wait to see the videos when you get there.
After watching your channel backwards (well I started from beginning, jumped to most recent ones and catching up with these middle ones) I think you guys are fantastic, having the courage and passion to now be diving in Panama and living the dream... and these costs and lessons fall into nothing but a path to happiness :)
Have you check to see if you have any corrosion on the VHF Marine antenna where the coax connects? Gunk where it connects. Can you borrow an SWR meter to see your around 1:1 to 1.5 etc on the meter. This will tell you if your coax and antenna is working OK.
I came across your guys channel today and I started watching from the beginning of your boating travels. I love how in tune you are with one another where you finish each others sentences. Ya'll are awesome!
I am having the same problem. After being inspired by you guys I bought a "used" RV to refurbish and do some traveling. What I am having to do is way more than I thought and costing much more as well. Every time I turn around there is unexpected damage or something that needs to be done so I convince myself "better/cheaper to do now than later." Thanks for the inspiration and education (regarding RV's). Happy sailing to you!
Guess we should have told you the boat is the cheap part 😁..... I watch your videos with my wife and children, thank you for being modest, clean and sharing your real experience and expectations. As a father of daughters and a son, I do use you as examples of what a spouse should be treated. Thank you and keep up the great work.
Jason and Nicky, I know the feeling no matter if its an RV, Boat, House or a Car. If its your passion, you will smile at the end of the day. Keep the Positive "Mental" Attitude going!
I watched your video twice it was great and if any one says I told you so tell get lost you have a dream and you are living it I am proud and thank you for sharing the good the bad that is what life is about you have learned so much and shared so much that will help others that is a great gift. Good luck on the shake down Cruise can't wait to see your next video. Be safe God bless and keep you.
Great update. Over the past ten years of getting ready for the South Pacific, we've experienced everything you have covered in this video. All the expense related things, along with the pain and the learning. Good for you two! I am really proud of you two, that you have learned so much, and you seem to have become proficient enough to handle things. You really do have need to learn more about how to fix things as you go. You will not be made of money for the rest of your lives. As we work through our budget, and our retirement, we have learned to fix and upgrade things, ourselves. In the end, I think you have learned a lot, and you really have come a long way since your foofoo days in the R/V.
lol. my brand new boat from the factory took 6 months and a few thousand (from my side, over $20,000 under warranty from the manufacturers side) to get running properly. the last issue got resolved 11 months later (still under warranty). its not your boat. its all boats. the environment is harsh, the parts are limited runs, tweaking the systems so they run correctly takes forever. save your receipts. some of that work is probably warrantied. next time you go in the parts will likely be free. also when you do your annual service be sure to document it on video. i do all of mine on video. its a good learning tool.
That's one of the things in my notes (yes, I actually take notes while watching sailing videos on RUclips): even new boats have a lot of stuff to fix on them. Things not at the right tension, poorly adjusted, stuff that needs batteries without batteries installed and things that came with batteries still having the insulating pull-tabs in place. Electrical circuits that work fine independently but if you turn them both on, the breakers pop. Vents that end in dead spaces instead of overboard like code calls for, hoses that somehow got left unconnected, fortunately at the seacock end for the new owner that told me about that one. Could have been ... interesting ... had the unconnected part been at the other end and the seacock opened as part of the delivery departure.
The boating industry is a lot like the RV industry, the manufacturers are more worried about selling units than "quality" units. When i did a walk through of the Nexus factory where i bought my pile of shit class C at, i swear one third of the work force would have run out the back door if i had screamed "ICE!". most all my issues have been work force related, a few poor engineering and the rest cheap corner cutting. I have owned two power boats, both over 30 foot and one was alot like my nexus, my first boat (25 years ago ) was built like a tank, with few problems. Today's so called "American workers" have little pride in job quality, are to uneducated to turn a screw driver or are performing tasks above their abilities. Open boards are great........
Greetings and blessings from Texas. Your videos are the best! I never fast forward through any of them, and watch to the very end. Can't say that to any of my other subscriptions. Here is a suggestion someone gave to me that has been extremely helpful. When working on anything you are going to take apart.....take a picture of it, and at each step along the way. Looking forward to your next video.
You guys are awesome to watch. What I really love is that your relationship is super tight. You can play off each other as if it's one person talking. Anyway, can't wait to see what you guys are up to next!! I love the videos!
Thanks for sharing your experiences and being honest about your expectations as well. Y'all are tons of fun. Keep up your good work, and thanks for letting us experience this along with you.
One small step for SV Curiosity, one giant service bill. ;-) I was about to say that the service likely added to your knowledge base and then you said so in the video. Safety at sea is no joke, having items function correctly when the conditions are less then ideal is priceless. I'll be trading in custom stick and brick for 26ft Class C in six months, partly because of you two, thank you. The tires will be something I'll paying close attention to, I'll be installing a TPMS system right away.
Hello Nikki and Jason, It is delightful to read your blogs about your whole RV and boating lifestyle, as well as your self-employment experiences. I have tried self employment attempts 4 times in my life, without sustainable success. Likewise, I've dreamed of living on a boat my whole life. Having grown up in S.E. Alaska, and enjoyed camping and inland boating all my life, I know it is feasible, but full of real life challenges in a number of life domains. The real life antidotes and seemingly mundane stuff is as much, or more interesting to someone like me than the artistic, beautiful tour guide type of stuff, although that tugs at the heart and soul. As you know, there are trade offs for all of life decisions, and as you have already experienced, major changes can be made after learning experiences are had. There is usually a price tag associated with learning, but it's usually worth it. Don't let the sceptics, critics and haters get you down. You are obviously having to give it everything you have to make this work, so smell the roses along the way (even in winter). I hope you thrive and prosper as you allow people like me to live those lifestyle dreams vicariously through your videos & blogs.
When I was in the Coast Guard I went through several dockside and yard periods. Ya'll talking about your boat being dirty constantly made me laugh. Even when the boat was out of the water up on the ways two of the crew stood watch and lived on board 24/7. Everywhere you turned was dirty and messed up. We cleaned constantly plus we had our own lists of things to do in addition to the lists that the yard workers were doing. Dockside and yard perios are a great way to learn the bones of you boat. We learned a lot from the yardworkers and it needed to be done but the day we sailed out of the yards for home was an awesome day.
Love these videos! Thank you for sharing the good/bad of the entire process. You're adventures are helping us to define the vision we want for our lives, and what we'll need to do to prepare for the day we set sail.
Just watching half way through this episode and I really like you guys! It is super nice that you are taking time out of your lives to share your experiences for every one to view, Not sure if you have heard but the saying about boats is: (B)ring (O)n (A)nother (T)housand, So your 1000.00 a day of service seems correct.. At least you have a Sail and it does not cost as much for fuel, Wishing you guys Calm seas, light winds and warm weather.
I love your guys videos helping to explain all the pro's and cons of living aboard. I hope you guys keep it up because it helps other novices learn the ropes and hopefully not the hard way. Fair winds and full sails!
I think of it this way " Sure I could wait to do an oil change until next week but now I can do that trip to the mountains a week earlier. Early service is costly but the alternative is more so.You guys always make the right decisions even when your guessing. Assume.
Hey Guys, yup...boats are expensive!!! It's worth every penny because you can't see the world from only a land based view. You get to see things that only a person on a boat can. People on the water are always wiling to help you and show you easier ways to do things. Stay away from marinas and you'll be way happier ...anchor whenever you can, keep things simple....you'll find that you don't really need all the gadgets...they always break :) love your videos cause you are so honest...boating is not easy and it's costly sometimes, but it's a wonderful life :)
Really love your videos. Sounds like owning a boat is like owning a semi truck. A blast to drive until your next repair. Thanks for sharing your ups and downs with us. I am looking forward to your travels and hope you will be safe out there.
Great channel guys enjoy your life style and the teachings it comes with. Every day we learn something different and that is key. Haters will always hate but remember that in all walks there will be some. I wish you all the best in your adventures. Life is not how many times you fall, but how many times you pick yourself up One love
Love that you're giving us all the less romanticized version of sailing. I love following young couples and families on their adventures, but it's fun to get a practical look at the lifestyle as well.
Great Video!!! You guys are smart and capable and frugal, you will learn to work with epoxy and gel coat and 5200 in no time. There is nothing on that boat that has to be fixed by someone smarter than the two of you; more knowledgable maybe, but knowledge is nothing more than a mistake away. Thanks so much for these videos. Come to Kotzebue Alaska and we will welcome you with open arms.
B.O.A.T. ( Acronym) Bring Out Another Thousand - I am still looking for a boat but you guys have to be some of the most realistic boaters on RUclips. Thanks for all the info, both good and bad. This gives me an idea on what I will have to allow in the kitty after buying the boat. Safe and happy travels - hope to see you on the water some day, or here if you ever make it to Australia.
The good thing that the lesson was learn and in the future most of those projects you guy can do it buy yourself. hard beginning always come with great lesson great channel I'm super fan of yours.
And that was the last video anyone saw of Jason and Nikki before they were consumed by Tropical Storm Hermine... I jest! Very excited that y'all have gotten through the "boat work" stage and are going to be heading out for a proper cruise. As a fellow newbie sailor, I'm looking forward to seeing how it all goes!
i can relate to your let's fix this and oh, that little thing, go ahead and take care of that as well. Motorhomes are expensive, but this boat, wow, double that and possibly triple as well. I wish you well and smooth sailing!
Thanks sooo much for taking us on your journey. Nikki, U look soooo cute on this new video. I mean U always look fab, but this video U just look really cute. I think black is your new color on the high seas. Luv, Pua
I seem to have missed this video. That Electric Cooler has got to be one of the funniest fun and neat things I have seen. I am glad to see you both having some fun with it before saying goodbye to it.
Boat = break out another thousand i'm sure everything you had done will make your adventure that much more enjoyable thanks for the great vids and sharing
G'day Guys, fantastic vid, Your first year is always going to be expensive but the next couple of years should hopefully be better. So averaging out over time will make it seam ok. It's all part of the learning curve, but now you get to the good bit... we are looking forward to your journey to the islands, Cheers from Down Under, Russell & Malene
even growing up on the Mississippi with the much smaller boats we learned that BOAT Stands for Brake Out Another Thousand. welcome to the club. enjoy your shake down .
Hope you continue to enjoy your journey. Looking forward to seeing you sailing to the Bahamas and beyond. Thank you for sharing the lessons you have learnt with us. As always it's great to see your high quality videos and i can appreciate how long these would take you to shoot, edit and produce. Keep them coming. Cheers
I can't wait for more of your videos, you always make me smile, and I appreciate the hard work you do to make it look relatively easy. Happy and safe sailing!
Yay! Was looking forward to your next video. It's great that you both stay so positive with all the time and expenses. Have a great time sailing near shore for the next few weeks. You deserve it. Looking forward to you next video.
Hi guys! I have been doing a lot of research for being self sufficient, eco friendly, and living on the cheap while sailing. I came across something you guys really should check out! It's a company called Oceanvolt. They do electric and hybrid engines (and they do Catamarans!) and from what I can tell, they are incredible. Their fully electric ones have tons of power, and the best part is, not only can you charge it with solar, but when you sail, just moving through the water will actually charge your engine as well! Hopefully you guys will check it out and see if it would be a good fit for you. Have a great trip!
I loved the cooler scooter,as a boat owner I can tell you one thing for sure unless you have unlimited funds.learn, learn, how to DYI.,oh and niki YOU WILL NEVER BE DONE YOUR SERVICE, so glad you posted your lessons learned was starting to wonder if you had been shocked yet.love you guys
I think you are both great. You have the right attitude and determination to be boat owners. I enjoy watching your videos. Still waiting for the technology video though.
investigate on the cost of courses, for example crash curse on Yanmar engines or electrical connection on a boat etc. then subtract that to the money spent, now you will feel a little better i guess. congratulations on all you effort i can see is paying off, keep up your spirit of adventure, a great couple for sure. thanks for all your videos.
Boating is expensive but you have done the right thing and climbed a huge learning curve, most live aboards don't go near marinas and live very cheaply once under way. now go and explore the world start with Bahamas and then down the windward islands of the carribean
Thanks for sharing. A lot folks talk about servicing & haul outs do to some maintenance, but never herd folks talk about cost. But in a way it can be a big issue (and quite the education!). Thanks again for sharing! 😊 Looking forward toward the next videos, and lessons learned! Sail on! ⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵
Love how informative your episodes are. We are getting estimates and timing for everything... installing the hydrogenerator, second bowspit, even every padeye...
Consider a short sail out to Fort Jefferson and on the way try the great anchorage at Marquesas Key. I would recommend taking along some extra cases of beer for trading with the Cuban lobster fishermen at Fort Jeff. Good sailing on the Gulf side as well, especially around the Everglades with endless coves and anchorages. Have fun and stay safe. You may want to drop a net over the side when anchored so that in the event one of your cats goes over he has a safety net to climb back aboard.
Thank you for sharing this information and your experiences. You both do a great job! We plan to be following in your path as we take delivery of our new catamaran in a few months. Safe Travels!
Scene with "coolermobile" is absolutely awesome! :) That's because you didn't pretend to be grown up - and you don't have to! :) There's little kid in each of us :) Best of luck with your adventure! And yea - learn how to fix and maintain things - that'll save you a lot of money, no matter - on boat, on RV or somewhere else.
Sure they knew the work that needed to be done, but they admitted to underestimating the amount of time at dock it was going to take and how much that was going to add up. I wasn't saying anything else.
Unfortunately an expensive service job got even more expensive after asking techs 1001 questions during the repair. I understand wanting to learn but time costs money. Especially in the service world.
You are learning fast, be proud of yourselves. I would suggest starting your Bahamas in the North where there are more services. Green Turtle, Man of War , and Spanish Wells for boat work if needed. PLAN on 300$ when you enter the Bahamas for your cruising permit and ask for 180 days or as many days as they will give you.
I was watching tv and saw a catamaran just like yours except the bunk space didn't have a master with that nice shower. I mention it because they mounted a small wind turbine on the back corner with their solar panels and wondered if ya'll ever thought of that. Being a sailboat, wind is everything and a great way to make extra power while you sail. Just a thought since you mentioned in a video about being careful with you power situation sometimes.
Hay Jason, Nikki, really enjoying your experiences on the sea, and I know this video was a learning experience for repairs and maintenance on your boat. But there is a big difference between an Estimate and a Quotation. Estimations are open to charge whatever they want when the job is done. A quotation is a fixed price for the job no matter how long it takes. 😉😊
Appreciate these videos! It's great to see the good, bad and ugly! Can't wait to see you out on the water...congrats of surpassing this hurdle guys.. let the fun begin!
What I appreciate most about you two is your willingness to be vulnerable and share the good, bad and goofs with us. Knowing full well there will be the people out there who admonish you for being......fill in the blank with the any negative adjective of choice. Like others have said, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy the sailing videos since it's something I will never do, but you proved me wrong. I think I am enjoying them more. I find your videos well edited, entertaining and there's always a smile or two or three while watching. Keep up the good work and looking forward to your next video, Valerie
I started watching you guys because of my love of road trips, and once you switched to the boat I figured that I would just unsubscribe and move on. That did not happen, because I really discovered how much I love your personalities and your honesty about everything!! Not ever going to get a boat OF ANY KIND, but just wanted you to know that I totally enjoy your videos, and I wish you and your "fur babies" much luck and success in your journeys!!
One of the best RUclips channels ever, Reguardless of camping or Sailing. They are naturals on camera and fun to watch. I admire their spirit and their honesty and Open this .
I am so glad to see you realize that asking the repair guy to add on a lot of little jobs adds up and is not the contractor's fault when the bill adds up. Awesome guys. Not many people understand that.
I love how you two genuinely care about helping people out with what you have learned. The information is invaluable , and much appreciated.
At 17:00, when you start talking about watching and learning. . . that should put any doubters to rest. Love you guys!
You both are awesomely candid and forthright folks. I sincerely enjoy and appreciate your video content. Nice work you two!!
I am just glad you are still alive. But you are doing well going as slow as you are not trying to sail around the world.
You two are great. Sorry about your expensive learning experience. I watch everyone of your videos and appreciate the humor you put into them. Just keep sailing. The winds will blow the problems away.
I really like your candor and willingness to let others see the vulnerability that all of us feel when trying something new. I could care less about sailing, but i care much about the adventures you embark on. Keep it coming please.
Nice job, guys. I'm impressed that you're able to view these initial costs as learning lessons and to not (at least to us) cry too much about it. I know people who have literal tantrums when they suffer sticker shock. One positive is that all these little things that you had fixed are now fixed, and should not be a problem for a while. When they do become problems in the future I expect you two will be seasoned enough to easily tackle them, which means the rest of get to see another video! Enjoy your shakedown, and catch some fish.
Bright side....The work is done, you won't have to replace so much at once again and now it's time to set sail and enjoy your new lives. Can't wait to see some fun videos of the adventures you gus will be taking....
Wow guys, this has been a LOT of time, effort and money over the last 6 months or so.
Finally, you're ready to do some sailing!! Congratulations on sticking to your guns and making it through. Hope it's all that you wish for and you have the time of your lives!
You have certainly dove into the deep end of the pool! The lessons are valuable - but expensive on a large boat - and you two are very bright and motivated students. Nikki, you just dive into everything and come up smiling, both of you actually. I love your attitude and I know how much frustration you must feel. Short Story: I bought a 1970 MG Midget (new) when I was a mere 21 years old and knew nothing about cars. When I got my first bill for routine (!!!!) service (there may have been an item for brake shoes and socks - how would I know??), I almost fainted.
The car was cheap, the maintenance WAS NOT. I had no idea where to turn. I struck up a conversation with a guy who also had an older MG who told me to join the MG club. What a breakthrough! I was the only 'girl' in the club and all those MG guys were more than happy to teach me all about SU carbs, shocks... etc. I never went back to the dealer again. You are now there. Join some forums and keep an eye peeled. Everything on a boat breaks. Everything on a boat can be fixed - and you two can do it.
I'm sure you get all sorts of advice, but you should listen to this advice (really):
If you don't have it, get a copy of Nigel Calder's Marine Diesel Engines - hardback, updated in 2006. Read it cover to cover BEFORE something breaks. Expensive book new, but if you hit a Boater's Resale shop, you can pick it up cheap. Get the updated one.
Calder has also written some others and I have the electrical one too.
We hope to see you out there!
Fair Winds and Following Seas!
Cap'n Jan
I spent my childhood down the cape with my 17 cousins. We had access to many different boats. I'm now 60 and on dialysis and miss time spent on the ocean. I am living thru you and your adventures! Can't wait to see whats next! Happy Sailing!
I got a Phantom 3 Advanced last December and every time I fly it I gain confidence in it's return. All my issues have been with trees and structures .... no issues what so ever flying over water so you're in an ideal spot to capture that bird's eye view of your anchorages.
My wife and I are moving to the Caribbean when I retire in a few years. I was researching the pros and cons of boat ownership and your videos have definitely given me a LOT to consider. Thank you for allowing us to see your maturation into true sailors! I wish you both all the luck in the world!
Thank you for sharing what you learned from some mistakes. No doubt you've saved me from making some of the same boo-boo's and that I'm not as bright about this stuff as I thought. You two are an enjoyable listen and give out good commonsense advice.....and I thank you once again!
When ya'll first announced this boat thing I thought you were absolutely crazy and in way over your head, but I'm happy to say you guys proved me wrong. Honestly, I'm super excited for you and can't wait to see all the beautiful footage from this part of your journey.
I sincerely hope all goes well for your beautiful newbaby and your family.
Stay strong
Thank you for being brutally honest with your experiences. We all area ALWAYS learning. We all have the "duh" moments as to "why did I first not do (fill in blank) and safe some money. You honesty goes a long way in helping others. Really! Great job!
Thank you so much for this. I'm so grateful that the two of you stopped making "everything is cheerful puppydogs and rainbows" videos and started making some more honest ones. I am very frustrated with the lack of progress on my tiny house project and the delays and setbacks I have been experiencing. But, seeing this video really made me feel better. It reminded me that delays and missing deadlines and is one of those frustrations that EVERYONE seems to experience when undertaking big projects. Best to just chill out and not let it bother you too much. I still have no idea when my builder will be done, but this video will at least let me sleep easier. Thanks again, and I look forward to your next update.
Hey guys, thanks for all the info, don't get beat down by all the assholes leaving negative messages. Your videos are fantastic and much appreciated by my family!
That's why there's the saying, "A boat is a hole in the water into which you pour money."
Great video! Have a great trip to the Bahamas! Can't wait to see the videos when you get there.
After watching your channel backwards (well I started from beginning, jumped to most recent ones and catching up with these middle ones) I think you guys are fantastic, having the courage and passion to now be diving in Panama and living the dream... and these costs and lessons fall into nothing but a path to happiness :)
Have you check to see if you have any corrosion on the VHF Marine antenna where the coax connects? Gunk where it connects. Can you borrow an SWR meter to see your around 1:1 to 1.5 etc on the meter. This will tell you if your coax and antenna is working OK.
I came across your guys channel today and I started watching from the beginning of your boating travels. I love how in tune you are with one another where you finish each others sentences. Ya'll are awesome!
I am having the same problem. After being inspired by you guys I bought a "used" RV to refurbish and do some traveling. What I am having to do is way more than I thought and costing much more as well. Every time I turn around there is unexpected damage or something that needs to be done so I convince myself "better/cheaper to do now than later." Thanks for the inspiration and education (regarding RV's). Happy sailing to you!
It’s amazing to see this!
Everything you do on the boat makes you guys better...you’re both “Wynn’rs!!”
Guess we should have told you the boat is the cheap part 😁..... I watch your videos with my wife and children, thank you for being modest, clean and sharing your real experience and expectations. As a father of daughters and a son, I do use you as examples of what a spouse should be treated. Thank you and keep up the great work.
Jason and Nicky, I know the feeling no matter if its an RV, Boat, House or a Car. If its your passion, you will smile at the end of the day. Keep the Positive "Mental" Attitude going!
Thanks for sharing the good, the bad, & the ugly! Its all worth it when you're out there wind to sail and having a blast!
I watched your video twice it was great and if any one says I told you so tell get lost you have a dream and you are living it I am proud and thank you for sharing the good the bad that is what life is about you have learned so much and shared so much that will help others that is a great gift. Good luck on the shake down Cruise can't wait to see your next video. Be safe God bless and keep you.
Great update.
Over the past ten years of getting ready for the South Pacific, we've experienced everything you have covered in this video. All the expense related things, along with the pain and the learning. Good for you two! I am really proud of you two, that you have learned so much, and you seem to have become proficient enough to handle things.
You really do have need to learn more about how to fix things as you go. You will not be made of money for the rest of your lives. As we work through our budget, and our retirement, we have learned to fix and upgrade things, ourselves.
In the end, I think you have learned a lot, and you really have come a long way since your foofoo days in the R/V.
I really enjoy your videos. Even under these circumstances, you manage to maintain a positive and fun attitude! Way to go! Keep up the good work.
Live the dream guys. welcome to sailing. Ignore the trolls, you have done a bloody great job.
lol.
my brand new boat from the factory took 6 months and a few thousand (from my side, over $20,000 under warranty from the manufacturers side) to get running properly. the last issue got resolved 11 months later (still under warranty).
its not your boat. its all boats. the environment is harsh, the parts are limited runs, tweaking the systems so they run correctly takes forever. save your receipts. some of that work is probably warrantied. next time you go in the parts will likely be free.
also when you do your annual service be sure to document it on video. i do all of mine on video. its a good learning tool.
That's one of the things in my notes (yes, I actually take notes while watching sailing videos on RUclips): even new boats have a lot of stuff to fix on them. Things not at the right tension, poorly adjusted, stuff that needs batteries without batteries installed and things that came with batteries still having the insulating pull-tabs in place. Electrical circuits that work fine independently but if you turn them both on, the breakers pop. Vents that end in dead spaces instead of overboard like code calls for, hoses that somehow got left unconnected, fortunately at the seacock end for the new owner that told me about that one. Could have been ... interesting ... had the unconnected part been at the other end and the seacock opened as part of the delivery departure.
The boating industry is a lot like the RV industry, the manufacturers are more worried about selling units than "quality" units. When i did a walk through of the Nexus factory where i bought my pile of shit class C at, i swear one third of the work force would have run out the back door if i had screamed "ICE!". most all my issues have been work force related, a few poor engineering and the rest cheap corner cutting. I have owned two power boats, both over 30 foot and one was alot like my nexus, my first boat (25 years ago ) was built like a tank, with few problems. Today's so called "American workers" have little pride in job quality, are to uneducated to turn a screw driver or are performing tasks above their abilities. Open boards are great........
Greetings and blessings from Texas. Your videos are the best! I never fast forward through any of them, and watch to the very end. Can't say that to any of my other subscriptions. Here is a suggestion someone gave to me that has been extremely helpful. When working on anything you are going to take apart.....take a picture of it, and at each step along the way. Looking forward to your next video.
You guys are awesome to watch. What I really love is that your relationship is super tight. You can play off each other as if it's one person talking.
Anyway, can't wait to see what you guys are up to next!! I love the videos!
I'm just catching up with your past few videos ... CONGRATULATIONS on 100,000 Subscribers!!! 100,001 to be exact!!!
Thanks for sharing your experiences and being honest about your expectations as well. Y'all are tons of fun. Keep up your good work, and thanks for letting us experience this along with you.
One small step for SV Curiosity, one giant service bill. ;-) I was about to say that the service likely added to your knowledge base and then you said so in the video. Safety at sea is no joke, having items function correctly when the conditions are less then ideal is priceless. I'll be trading in custom stick and brick for 26ft Class C in six months, partly because of you two, thank you. The tires will be something I'll paying close attention to, I'll be installing a TPMS system right away.
Hello Nikki and Jason,
It is delightful to read your blogs about your whole RV and boating lifestyle, as well as your self-employment experiences. I have tried self employment attempts 4 times in my life, without sustainable success. Likewise, I've dreamed of living on a boat my whole life. Having grown up in S.E. Alaska, and enjoyed camping and inland boating all my life, I know it is feasible, but full of real life challenges in a number of life domains. The real life antidotes and seemingly mundane stuff is as much, or more interesting to someone like me than the artistic, beautiful tour guide type of stuff, although that tugs at the heart and soul.
As you know, there are trade offs for all of life decisions, and as you have already experienced, major changes can be made after learning experiences are had. There is usually a price tag associated with learning, but it's usually worth it. Don't let the sceptics, critics and haters get you down. You are obviously having to give it everything you have to make this work, so smell the roses along the way (even in winter).
I hope you thrive and prosper as you allow people like me to live those lifestyle dreams vicariously through your videos & blogs.
Thanks for the comment. We absolutely loved our time in the RV, especially AK, and can't wait to experience more in the boat.
When I was in the Coast Guard I went through several dockside and yard periods. Ya'll talking about your boat being dirty constantly made me laugh.
Even when the boat was out of the water up on the ways two of the crew stood watch and lived on board 24/7. Everywhere you turned was dirty and messed up. We cleaned constantly plus we had our own lists of things to do in addition to the lists that the yard workers were doing.
Dockside and yard perios are a great way to learn the bones of you boat. We learned a lot from the yardworkers and it needed to be done but the day we sailed out of the yards for home was an awesome day.
Love these videos! Thank you for sharing the good/bad of the entire process. You're adventures are helping us to define the vision we want for our lives, and what we'll need to do to prepare for the day we set sail.
So exciting to think you are on your own now! Yay...fly little birdies (fish) fly! But your mom's say to be careful......
Just watching half way through this episode and I really like you guys! It is super nice that you are taking time out of your lives to share your experiences for every one to view, Not sure if you have heard but the saying about boats is: (B)ring (O)n (A)nother (T)housand, So your 1000.00 a day of service seems correct.. At least you have a Sail and it does not cost as much for fuel, Wishing you guys Calm seas, light winds and warm weather.
I love your guys videos helping to explain all the pro's and cons of living aboard. I hope you guys keep it up because it helps other novices learn the ropes and hopefully not the hard way. Fair winds and full sails!
I think of it this way " Sure I could wait to do an oil change until next week but now I can do that trip to the mountains a week earlier. Early service is costly but the alternative is more so.You guys always make the right decisions even when your guessing. Assume.
Hey Guys, yup...boats are expensive!!! It's worth every penny because you can't see the world from only a land based view. You get to see things that only a person on a boat can. People on the water are always wiling to help you and show you easier ways to do things. Stay away from marinas and you'll be way happier ...anchor whenever you can, keep things simple....you'll find that you don't really need all the gadgets...they always break :) love your videos cause you are so honest...boating is not easy and it's costly sometimes, but it's a wonderful life :)
Really love your videos. Sounds like owning a boat is like owning a semi truck. A blast to drive until your next repair. Thanks for sharing your ups and downs with us. I am looking forward to your travels and hope you will be safe out there.
Great channel guys enjoy your life style and the teachings it comes with. Every day we learn something different and that is key. Haters will always hate but remember that in all walks there will be some. I wish you all the best in your adventures. Life is not how many times you fall, but how many times you pick yourself up One love
Now you know that the word Boat is actually an acronym for Bring Out Another Thousand. You guys are great. Keep up the great work.
We always called it Bust Out Another Thousand. My Jeep is Just Empty Every Pocket :)
Lessons not learned in the huge box on wheels! Good of you to post, as with all the lessons you did learn in the big box.
Love that you're giving us all the less romanticized version of sailing. I love following young couples and families on their adventures, but it's fun to get a practical look at the lifestyle as well.
Great videos! Another word for cruising is "fixing your boat in exotic locations".... fair winds!
That is what we are expecting. :)
Great Video!!! You guys are smart and capable and frugal, you will learn to work with epoxy and gel coat and 5200 in no time. There is nothing on that boat that has to be fixed by someone smarter than the two of you; more knowledgable maybe, but knowledge is nothing more than a mistake away. Thanks so much for these videos. Come to Kotzebue Alaska and we will welcome you with open arms.
B.O.A.T. ( Acronym) Bring Out Another Thousand - I am still looking for a boat but you guys have to be some of the most realistic boaters on RUclips. Thanks for all the info, both good and bad. This gives me an idea on what I will have to allow in the kitty after buying the boat. Safe and happy travels - hope to see you on the water some day, or here if you ever make it to Australia.
The good thing that the lesson was learn and in the future most of those projects you guy can do it buy yourself. hard beginning always come with great lesson great channel I'm super fan of yours.
Thank you for sharing all you learn and your spirit of adventure. You continue to inspire the dreamer in all of us!
And that was the last video anyone saw of Jason and Nikki before they were consumed by Tropical Storm Hermine...
I jest! Very excited that y'all have gotten through the "boat work" stage and are going to be heading out for a proper cruise. As a fellow newbie sailor, I'm looking forward to seeing how it all goes!
i can relate to your let's fix this and oh, that little thing, go ahead and take care of that as well. Motorhomes are expensive, but this boat, wow, double that and possibly triple as well. I wish you well and smooth sailing!
Thanks for sharing your hard won lessons. Hope the money thing works itself out soon. Congrats on following your dreams regardless.
Thanks sooo much for taking us on your journey. Nikki, U look soooo cute on this new video. I mean U always look fab, but this video U just look really cute. I think black is your new color on the high seas. Luv, Pua
I love how long your videos are. It's almost like hanging out with you inside the boat for a while. Very well produced video series.
Great video! I really like that you guys always own your mistakes and have no problem sharing them for others to learn from
I seem to have missed this video. That Electric Cooler has got to be one of the funniest fun and neat things I have seen. I am glad to see you both having some fun with it before saying goodbye to it.
Boat = break out another thousand i'm sure everything you had done will make your adventure that much more enjoyable thanks for the great vids and sharing
You guys rock. Cant wait to see where you guys go next. Im glad all the lessons you learned have grown your confidence and your skills.
G'day Guys, fantastic vid, Your first year is always going to be expensive but the next couple of years should hopefully be better. So averaging out over time will make it seam ok. It's all part of the learning curve, but now you get to the good bit... we are looking forward to your journey to the islands, Cheers from Down Under, Russell & Malene
even growing up on the Mississippi with the much smaller boats we learned that BOAT Stands for Brake Out Another Thousand. welcome to the club. enjoy your shake down .
you guys look so happy to be free again. $ + boat/cat = $$$. the three rule you mentioned. can't wait for some adventure videos.
Hope you continue to enjoy your journey. Looking forward to seeing you sailing to the Bahamas and beyond. Thank you for sharing the lessons you have learnt with us. As always it's great to see your high quality videos and i can appreciate how long these would take you to shoot, edit and produce. Keep them coming. Cheers
Excited to see you two actually start sailing and exploring. All the prep was interesting to watch but not the same. Good luck and smooth sailing!
I can't wait for more of your videos, you always make me smile, and I appreciate the hard work you do to make it look relatively easy. Happy and safe sailing!
Thank you for sharing your lives. It's a refreshingly well told story and I think a pleasure to be able to feel in some way a part.
Yay! Was looking forward to your next video. It's great that you both stay so positive with all the time and expenses. Have a great time sailing near shore for the next few weeks. You deserve it. Looking forward to you next video.
Thanks for sharing. My best to both of you and hi to the little ones.
Hi guys! I have been doing a lot of research for being self sufficient, eco friendly, and living on the cheap while sailing. I came across something you guys really should check out! It's a company called Oceanvolt. They do electric and hybrid engines (and they do Catamarans!) and from what I can tell, they are incredible. Their fully electric ones have tons of power, and the best part is, not only can you charge it with solar, but when you sail, just moving through the water will actually charge your engine as well! Hopefully you guys will check it out and see if it would be a good fit for you. Have a great trip!
I loved the cooler scooter,as a boat owner I can tell you one thing for sure unless you have unlimited funds.learn, learn, how to DYI.,oh and niki YOU WILL NEVER BE DONE YOUR SERVICE, so glad you posted your lessons learned was starting to wonder if you had been shocked yet.love you guys
I think you are both great. You have the right attitude and determination to be boat owners. I enjoy watching your videos. Still waiting for the technology video though.
Great video never forget the definition of BOAT . Bust Out Another Thousand!!!! safe travels have fun
investigate on the cost of courses, for example crash curse on Yanmar engines or electrical connection on a boat etc. then subtract that to the money spent, now you will feel a little better i guess. congratulations on all you effort i can see is paying off, keep up your spirit of adventure, a great couple for sure. thanks for all your videos.
Boating is expensive but you have done the right thing and climbed a huge learning curve, most live aboards don't go near marinas and live very cheaply once under way. now go and explore the world start with Bahamas and then down the windward islands of the carribean
Thanks for sharing. A lot folks talk about servicing & haul outs do to some maintenance, but never herd folks talk about cost. But in a way it can be a big issue (and quite the education!). Thanks again for sharing! 😊 Looking forward toward the next videos, and lessons learned! Sail on! ⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵
good luck guys sailing is not all restful sunsets but you can have enjoyable voyages
Great video. You had a crash course in boat yard life. Now go enjoy sailing and keep the videos coming. Fair winds. S/V Dream Maker on Cape Cod.
Love how informative your episodes are. We are getting estimates and timing for everything... installing the hydrogenerator, second bowspit, even every padeye...
Consider a short sail out to Fort Jefferson and on the way try the great anchorage at Marquesas Key. I would recommend taking along some extra cases of beer for trading with the Cuban lobster fishermen at Fort Jeff. Good sailing on the Gulf side as well, especially around the Everglades with endless coves and anchorages. Have fun and stay safe. You may want to drop a net over the side when anchored so that in the event one of your cats goes over he has a safety net to climb back aboard.
Thank you for sharing this information and your experiences. You both do a great job! We plan to be following in your path as we take delivery of our new catamaran in a few months. Safe Travels!
Scene with "coolermobile" is absolutely awesome! :) That's because you didn't pretend to be grown up - and you don't have to! :) There's little kid in each of us :) Best of luck with your adventure! And yea - learn how to fix and maintain things - that'll save you a lot of money, no matter - on boat, on RV or somewhere else.
Sounds like important lessons, if expensive ones. Hopefully your videos can help others learn to avoid them. Fair winds and good sailing.
could not have said it any better. ;) Looking forward to the travel videos.
These kids are great!! We too can't wait to see where the winds take them from here!
GodSpeed All! :D
Sure they knew the work that needed to be done, but they admitted to underestimating the amount of time at dock it was going to take and how much that was going to add up. I wasn't saying anything else.
Texfire g Vv
Unfortunately an expensive service job got even more expensive after asking techs 1001 questions during the repair. I understand wanting to learn but time costs money. Especially in the service world.
You are learning fast, be proud of yourselves. I would suggest starting your Bahamas in the North where there are more services. Green Turtle, Man of War , and Spanish Wells for boat work if needed. PLAN on 300$ when you enter the Bahamas for your cruising permit and ask for 180 days or as many days as they will give you.
I was watching tv and saw a catamaran just like yours except the bunk space didn't have a master with that nice shower. I mention it because they mounted a small wind turbine on the back corner with their solar panels and wondered if ya'll ever thought of that. Being a sailboat, wind is everything and a great way to make extra power while you sail. Just a thought since you mentioned in a video about being careful with you power situation sometimes.
Hay Jason, Nikki, really enjoying your experiences on the sea, and I know this video was a learning experience for repairs and maintenance on your boat. But there is a big difference between an Estimate and a Quotation. Estimations are open to charge whatever they want when the job is done. A quotation is a fixed price for the job no matter how long it takes. 😉😊
Best of Nikki yet. keep them coming....
Appreciate these videos! It's great to see the good, bad and ugly! Can't wait to see you out on the water...congrats of surpassing this hurdle guys.. let the fun begin!
Looking forward to new adventures with you guys! Good luck!
That is hilarious watching Miss Hepburn tearing around on that little buggy!
OMG love that cooler!!! Had me cracking up!!!! Thanks for the laugh!