As detailed on our website, www.pacificpassion.org, our ambition has always been to explore the vast Pacific Ocean, particularly the enchanting islands around the equator.

Our journey began in mid-January 2023 with a major refit and upgrade of SilverLining to prepare her for this grand project. This effort took about 1.5 years and, as always, cost more than budgeted. But remember our tagline: Running Out Of Time Is Worse Than Running Out Of Money.

Initially, we planned to navigate the northern Pacific route, taking advantage of the Tradewinds from Phuket, Thailand, over Japan to Alaska, Canada, the USA, and finally to Panama. However, as we discussed the upcoming challenges of freezing temperatures, strong winds, and heavy seas, it became clear that this route was not ideal for Kristin, who, at the turn of the Millennium, wished for no more winters.

Determined to share as much of this journey with Kristin, family, and friends, we decided to change our plans. We will as from now stay in tropical waters, making our way around the equator towards the east across the dateline. This adjustment means no Arctic or Antarctic ambitions with SilverLining, shortening our trip by about a year but allowing us to enjoy the best parts of our plans.

This decision has been warmly welcomed by our crew, who consider 20-degree centigrade temperatures as winter, and by our budget, which has been strained by huge overruns and rising costs of insurance, repairs, and travel.

While this is a significant change, we embrace it wholeheartedly and look forward to the adventures ahead.

We still plan to visit Antarctica, but now on a cruise vessel in February 2025, combined with a visit to Patagonia. We shall do likewise for the visit to the Galapagos. We are sure that these will also be a jaw-dropping experiences, and we will share our findings through our blog, Instagram, and journal.

If you are still interested in joining our Project, please contact us. A ‘no’ is what you have, a ‘yes’ is what you may get!

Stay in touch!

Kristin, Philip & the SilverLining Crew

Kristin and I returned aboard SilverLining on 1 August to kick off Year 2 of Pacific Passion. We were joined by Geert and Lieven, who I met during the Yacht Navigator Training that Lieven and I attended in 2021/2022 at the Antwerp Maritime Academy. While I couldn't complete the full cycle, Lieven did and earned his certificate with utmost satisfaction. He has since become passionate in celestial navigation, and we agreed that the best way to practice this challenging technique would be a cruise onboard, sharing knowledge and refining our skills.

The Art of Celestial Navigation

Celestial navigation is an age-old art that dates back to the early days of sea exploration. Sailors relied on the stars, sun, moon, and planets to determine their position at sea before modern GPS technology. The primary tool for this navigation method is the sextant, an instrument used to measure the angle between a celestial object and the horizon.

A brief history: The sextant evolved from earlier instruments like the astrolabe and quadrant, with the first true sextants appearing in the 18th century. These devices allowed navigators to calculate latitude with remarkable accuracy by measuring the sun's angle at noon. Longitude, however, remained elusive until the development of accurate marine chronometers.

Using a sextant involves a series of precise measurements and calculations. First, you sight a celestial body through the sextant's telescope, aligning it with the horizon using the instrument's mirrors. Then, you read the angle on the sextant's arc and note the exact time of your observation. This data, along with nautical almanacs and sight reduction tables, allows you to plot your position on a chart.

If you would like to know more about the technique of celestial navigation, have a look at the YouTube movies from Leon Schulz at Regina Sailing website https://reginasailing.com/celestial_videos/  

The Journey Begins

We set sail from Singapore, planning to spend a few days cruising in the Anambas Islands of Indonesia before continuing to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Now, as we approach 15 August, our estimated arrival date in Kota Kinabalu, I can confirm that Lieven not only understands celestial navigation but is also a good teacher and attentive listener. While I am still far from mastering the technique, his guidance has sparked a keen interest in me. It's a fantastic mental exercise that keeps your mind sharp!

Friendship, Science, Discovery, and Adventure

This entire project embodies friendship, science, discovery, and adventure. The past two weeks have been filled with all these elements. We've experienced the beauty of the Anambas Islands, practiced celestial navigation and deepened our bonds of friendship. The journey ahead through the Philippine archipelago promises even more excitement, learning, and unforgettable moments.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our voyage. We'll share more stories, insights, and discoveries from the second year of Project Pacific Passion. Thank you for your patience and continued support.

_________________________________________________________________________________

For more updates and detailed logs of our journey, visit www.pacificpassion.org and Instagram @pacific.passion. Join us as we navigate the vast and wondrous Pacific, sharing our passion for exploration and discovery.

As you may recall from our previous updates, we've been stationed in Langkawi, Malaysia, tackling some critical maintenance and repair work on SilverLining. One of the most pressing issues we faced was the malfunctioning hydraulics system, which had caused the mainsail to rip last year at the beginning of our project and prevented us from utilizing it for the second half of 2023.

Enter Stan and Yuen from South Carolina, USA, our saviors in this hydraulics crisis. Stan's expertise in engineering, hydraulics, robotics and controls proved invaluable as he assessed the problems and proposed a groundbreaking solution. We realized that the hydraulic controls had failed on multiple occasions, and Stan recommended designing a new system using tried-and-true technology and readily available components commonly used in industrial processes and robotics worldwide.

The Pacific Passion team wasted no time in getting to work. Within just two weeks, we managed to source all the necessary parts and cabling required for the new hydraulics system. Stan arrived in Langkawi during the last week of January and, together with Joe, Gerald and Cherry, they began the intricate process of installing the cables and components aboard SilverLining, our magnificent yacht docked in the Langkawi marina at Kuah.

Over the past few days, we painstakingly commissioned the entire system, making sure every component was functioning flawlessly. Yesterday marked a significant milestone for us as we successfully completed the sea trials. The relief and satisfaction we felt cannot be overstated. This hydraulic system is the beating heart of our beautiful sailing yacht, and having it fully operational once again is a major achievement that brings tranquility to all of us as we continue to pursue our Pacific Passion project.

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Stan, Yuen, and the entire crew who played a pivotal role in making this crucial overhaul possible. Your dedication and expertise have allowed us to breathe life back into our dreams and aspirations.

Now, as we bid farewell to Langkawi, our next destination is the vibrant city-state of Singapore. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates as we set sail for new adventures, navigate uncharted waters, and continue to share the wonders of the Pacific Ocean, our Passion, with the world.

As always, we're immensely grateful for your support and enthusiasm for our journey. Without you, none of this would be possible.

With fair winds and clear skies,

Your Pacific Passion Team.

SilverLining: Revived and Renewed

Our trusty vessel, SilverLining, has undergone a significant overhaul during the new year break. Nestled in the Langkawi hardstand, Joe and the crew have been tirelessly working to resolve several crucial matters. They've tackled issues with the sea chest and various hull openings essential for our onboard systems. These fixes, combined with our annual tradition of painting the underwater hull with antifouling, have prepared SilverLining for her upcoming voyages.

One fascinating observation during this maintenance was the tenacity of marine life. Despite our efforts, cockles have a unique way of clinging onto the hull, thrusters, propellor shaft, and even sneaking through the openings passed the boat's hull. Nonetheless, SilverLining triumphantly returned to the water on Monday 22nd, ready for her next chapter.

Enhancing Safety and Performance

Welcoming Stan again on board marks the beginning of another exciting phase - installing brand new Hydraulics controls for our sail systems. This upgrade will touch every aspect of SilverLining's operations, from stays, sails, furlers, and winches to thrusters. We're confident that this will significantly boost both safety and performance as she continues her journey across the Pacific Ocean.

Embracing Digital Navigation

In an era where digital is king, we've embraced the shift from paper charts to a state-of-the-art digital system. With Admiralty notifying the marine world about the ceasing of the production of analog charts by 2025, we've partnered with Bogerd Martin to source and install a cutting-edge digital solution with its redundancies and weekly updates of the navigation charts and maritime information. This system complements our existing Navionics mapped tools and ensures that SilverLining remains at the forefront of maritime technology.

Charting Our Course

Looking ahead, we've mapped out an exhilarating 18-month program. From February to June 2024, our focus will be on exploring the pristine waters of Eastern Indonesia, from West Papua to Bali. We anticipate some world-class diving experiences in Raja Ampat and the surrounding areas.

Come end of July 2024, we embark on a grand voyage towards Japan, tracing the coasts of Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, and our home port, Hong Kong. Winter 2024-2025 will be spent in Japan, after which we aim to set course for Alaska – a journey promising adventure and discovery in the USA's largest state.

Kristin’s Road to Recovery

On a personal note, Kristin's resilience in recovering from her ankle injury has been nothing short of inspiring. Although not yet fully healed, her progress through intense physiotherapy and exercise is remarkable. We'll continue to support her towards complete recovery with exercising on board, a lot of swimming in the warm waters of Indonesia and some soft trekking and visiting ashore.

Stay Connected

As we set sail on this renewed journey, we're excited to resume our regular blog updates (www.pacificpassion.org/blog) and social media interactions (Instagram @pacific.passion). Stay tuned for more news, and please help us spread the word about Project Pacific Passion's latest adventures!

Keep exploring,

Team Pacific Passion

Good health and recovery are paramount. May this year bring revitalization to our physical and mental well-being. Let us be mindful of our health, taking steps to nurture our bodies and minds, and extend this care to those around us. Recovery is not just physical; it's about finding balance, tranquility, and rejuvenating our inner selves.

This year, let's commit to learning and adventure. Life is a continuous journey of discovery, and each day offers opportunities to learn something new, to challenge ourselves, and to step out of our comfort zones. Whether it's picking up a new skill, exploring a previously unknown topic, or physically traveling to new places, let's embrace the adventure that learning brings.

Peace and camaraderie should be at the forefront of our actions. In this divided world, let's be the bridge-builders, the peacemakers, and the friends to all. Celebrate our differences and find strength in our diversity. Let’s foster a culture of understanding, respect, and unity.

Respect for others, along with maintaining our self-respect, is a delicate balance that we must strive to achieve. Let's practice empathy, understanding, and tolerance. Recognize that everyone has their unique journey and perspectives. Respect their paths, as you respect your own.

Our planet, our precious Earth, needs our care more than ever. Let's be conscious of our impact on the climate and the environment. Small actions, when multiplied by millions, can bring about tremendous change. Whether it’s reducing waste, conserving energy, or, importantly, supporting sustainable practices, every bit counts in preserving our planet for future generations.

Creativity and innovation are the sparks that light up human progress. This year, let's pledge to nurture our creative sides, to think outside the box, and to bring new ideas to life. Whether in art, science, business, or daily problem-solving, let’s encourage ourselves and others to imagine and innovate.

Above all, let us remember to enjoy every second of 2024 and beyond. Time is our most precious resource, and every moment is a gift. Let's live fully, love deeply, and laugh often. May this year be one of joy, fulfillment, and prosperity for you and your loved ones.

Keep following our blog entries on www.pacificpassion.org, and don't miss the reels, stories, and pictures on Instagram @pacific.passion.

Here's to a fantastic 2024, filled with love, health, learning, peace, sustainability, respect, creativity, and joy. Happy New Year!

As we wave goodbye to 2023 and look ahead to the new year, it's a momentous time for the Pacific Passion project.

Today, December 2nd, marks a significant milestone as we disembarked from our beloved vessel, SilverLining, in Phuket. She remains in the capable hands of Captain Joe, Gerald, Glen, and Cherrylyn, a crew dedicated to her well-being and upkeep.

The past six months have been a whirlwind of activity and challenges. Just last week, we welcomed Stan and his wife Yuen aboard. Their expertise in hydraulics was instrumental in addressing the issues we've faced over the past year. Thanks to their help, we've not only identified the problems but also devised a solid plan to resolve them. By the end of coming January, SilverLining will undergo crucial maintenance, including antifouling treatment and a comprehensive check of her underwater systems, all combined with installing new hydraulic controls. This is a vital step in ensuring her readiness for the adventures ahead.

The first year of our project, spanning from July 2023 to July 2024, is primarily focused on refitting, repairing, expanding, and rigorously testing all of SilverLining's systems. Our ultimate goal is to prepare her for a unique challenge: sailing the less-traveled parts of the Pacific Ocean. And as mentioned earlier, this journey is not just about exploration but also about contributing to important research on plankton, microplastics, and ocean mapping.

Kristin and I are excited to reunite with our family in Belgium for the holiday season. These gatherings are not just about celebration; they're also a time for serious planning. We'll be discussing the confirmed routing and timing for the next 18 months. Additionally, we'll coordinate with the Free University of Brussels and our other partners to fine-tune our scientific endeavors and determine who will join us for this critical research.

The upcoming 6 to 8 weeks are shaping up to be both important and thrilling. We promise to keep you updated on all developments through our established channels of communication.

As the year draws to a close, we extend our heartfelt wishes to you and your loved ones. May you enjoy good health, fun, and, most importantly, peace during these times. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey with passion and purpose on the Pacific Ocean.

Happy Holidays and Peaceful New Year from the Pacific Passion Team!

The Unseen Heroes: Plankton and Earth's Ecosystem:

You might have heard of plankton, but do you know how vital they are to our planet? Plankton are not just tiny organisms floating aimlessly in the ocean; they are the unsung heroes of our ecosystem. Plankton comes in two main types: phytoplankton (plants) and zooplankton (animals). Phytoplankton, like land-based plants, use sunlight and carbon dioxide to produce oxygen through photosynthesis. Remarkably, these minuscule beings are responsible for producing more than half of the world's oxygen – yes, every second breath you take is thanks to them!

But their role doesn't end there. Plankton forms the foundation of the aquatic food web. Everything, from small fish to gigantic whales, relies directly or indirectly on plankton for food. Moreover, they play a significant role in carbon sequestration, helping to regulate our planet's climate.

To bring this captivating world closer to you, we'll feature a short movie titled "Ocean Drifters, a secret world beneath the waves," produced by Plymouth University and narrated by Sir Attenborough. This film offers an eye-opening glimpse into the life of these tiny, yet mighty, inhabitants of our oceans.

<Movie 1>

A Closer Look: Zooplankton and Their Diet:

Now, let's zoom in on zooplankton, which includes species like copepods and daphnids. Copepods are fascinating creatures, often referred to as the 'kings of plankton.' They play a crucial role in the aquatic food chain, feeding on tiny plants called diatoms and other phytoplankton. Daphnids, commonly known as water fleas, are another type of zooplankton that are essential for maintaining the balance in aquatic ecosystems.

To understand their world better, we will include a short movie titled "Copepods: the Diatom-devouring king of plankton." This film will take you on a journey into the microscopic world, revealing the intricate relationships and dependencies that sustain life in our oceans.

<Movie 2>

The Bigger Picture: Pacific Passion's Scientific Endeavors:

The study and appreciation of these minuscule creatures mark the first major subject of our scientific research in the Pacific Passion project. We believe that understanding and protecting these tiny organisms is key to preserving the health of our oceans and, by extension, our planet.

We hope this glimpse into the microscopic world of the Pacific ignites the same passion in you as it has in us. Stay tuned for more blog entries on our website, www.pacificpassion.org, and don't forget to check out our reels, stories, and pictures broadcasted on Instagram @pacific.passion. Join us in this journey of discovery and inspiration, as we continue to explore and protect the magnificent and mysterious world of our oceans.

Stay Inspired, Stay Passionate! More on Plankton:

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In this blog entry, we won't delve into the complexities of the past period; instead, we're eager to share the magnetic allure that the Pacific Passion project holds for Philip and the profound connection he's found while sailing the seas.

Philip, with a 42-year long career filled with globetrotting adventures, both professional and personal, has collected a wealth of experiences. He's traversed the world at an astonishing pace, logging up to 400,000 kilometres annually, working tirelessly and meeting people from all walks of life. This fast-paced life, lived at 200 km per hour, encapsulated Philip in a bubble where almost every sense was attuned to the demands of his work and surroundings, an existence he cherished and would repeat without hesitation - all made possible by the unwavering support of his family.

Now, however, the tempo has changed. Philip, aboard a spacious 90-square-meter boat, moves at an average speed of 15 km per hour, surrounded by loved ones. The once bustling bubble has morphed into a cocoon, offering a slower, more intimate perspective with horizons in every direction. Life aboard is guided by the sun, waking up 15 minutes before sunrise and retiring about two hours after sunset. The rhythm of life at sea allows for a rejuvenating 8 to 10 hours of rest—a significant shift from the 6 hours in Philip's previous 42 years.

Staring at the horizons, especially during the tranquil sunrise, induces a meditative state, unlocking the mind to rethink priorities in life. The stars, moon, and planets become the third dimension - the celestial horizon. Gazing at them, learning their names and positions, brings excitement, especially when a shooting star streaks across the sky.

Adding to this enchantment are scuba dives, each revealing a new facet of the underwater world. Despite differences in location, visibility, depth, and current, every dive is a unique discovery. It underscores the importance of the seas and emphasizes why their preservation is crucial.

Since retirement, Philip has dedicated himself to a profound purpose: delving into aspects of the ocean, particularly the Pacific Ocean, a vast habitat teeming with the tiniest creatures and the largest mammals. It's a biotope that demands protection at all costs. This forms the core of the Pacific Passion project for the next four years and beyond - a gift to future generations, a legacy for his grandkids and their children.

This is why Philip sails, and this is why he shares his journey with you.

Yet, such a mission wouldn’t be possible without the steadfast support of Captain Joe and his dedicated crew – Cherilyn, Gerald and Glen. They handle the daily chores, ensure safe sailing of the vessel, and attend to the well-being of the guests. Soon, they’ll evolve into assistant scientists, furthering the project’s research endeavors...

We express our heartfelt gratitude for taking a moment to read our entries. We hope they resonate with you, inspire greater good, and kindle a passion for preserving our oceans.

Keep following our blog entries on www.pacificpassion.org, and don't miss the reels, stories, and pictures on Instagram @pacific.passion. Let Pacific Passion inspire you to embark on your odyssey of discovery and conservation.

Sail with us into serenity, The Pacific Passion Team

In the second week of October, our meticulously planned celebration took an unexpected turn when we received the news that Philip's 90-year-old mother had been hospitalized, her condition rapidly deteriorating. Philip, who was in Lombok at the time, wasted no time in leaving for Belgium upon hearing the news. On his journey back, he had a poignant conversation with his mother, a heartfelt exchange of love and comfort. On October 12th, he received the confirmation from doctors that she had passed away. The profound loss of his mother is something that words cannot fully capture. She was an extraordinary woman who had a profound impact on Philip, shaping him into the person he was and is today.

In the wake of this heart-wrenching loss, Kristin and their children made the unanimous decision to alter their plans. They cancelled their Bali celebration and instead traveled from Indonesia, Singapore and Canada to Belgium to stand by Philip and his sister Ellen during this emotionally challenging time. What followed was a moving and heartwarming celebration of Philip's mother's life. It was a tribute to a life well-lived, a testament to the love she had sown and the countless lives she had touched. This farewell will forever be etched in their memories.

While the celebration of Kristin's 60th birthday was undoubtedly marked by mixed feelings, it was an event that carried an even deeper sense of significance. The original plans may have been disrupted, but the love and unity that emerged from these unforeseen circumstances were a testament to the strength of family bonds. Every moment was cherished, reminding us that life's unpredictable twists and turns can bring us closer together, even in the face of sorrow.

As we close the chapter on this emotional month, we are reminded of the unpredictability of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with our loved ones. At Pacific Passion, we share our personal stories to connect with our readers on a profound level. Life's highs and lows shape us, and they are worth celebrating, even when faced with adversity.

We invite you to stay connected and follow our journey by exploring our blog entries on our website at www.pacificpassion.org. You can also experience our story through reels, posts, and pictures on our Instagram @pacific.passion.

Beristirahat dalam damai, ibu – Rest in peace, mother. We will carry your love and legacy with us as we move forward

Tranquility Amidst the Bustling Bali Scene: While Bali and the Gili Islands in North Lombok are renowned for their bustling party scenes, our hearts are set on something different. We find solace in the serenity of these islands and the vibrant sealife that surrounds them. Our journey is fueled by a passion for exploration, especially for our youngest crew member, Chloé.

Chloé's fascination with underwater species runs deep in her blood, as her father is an expert and dedicated enthusiast in ornamental and exotic fishkeeping. Since her childhood, Chloé was surrounded by exotic fishes. In light of this, we've decided to embark on a new adventure by arranging a PADI Open Water Diving Training for her. This training will equip her to join us in our upcoming dives as we seek out the elusive Mola Mola, sharks, turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures in Balinese waters.

Passport Adventures and Lessons Learned: Meanwhile, Philip found himself in a passport predicament. As the expiration date of his passport approached in March 2024, he stupidly missed that many non-European states, including countries in the Far East, require a passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the visa's expiry date. To resolve this, Philip had no choice but to make a dash to Belgium, his home country, to obtain a new passport. Fortunately, Belgium offers a special super-urgent procedure that allowed him to return to the Pacific Passion within four days. A valuable lesson learned: always check passport expiration dates!

Sail Repairs and Sustainability Initiatives: During our stay at the Serangan anchorage in Bali, we took the opportunity to address some important matters. We needed to have the outboard engine of our Nano Silver dinghy overhauled for which we found a workshop in Serangan. Our mainsail needed repairs, and we entrusted it to Ibu Juli Artiningsih, the first and possibly still the only female sailmaker in Indonesia. We'll have to be patient as for many things the Indonesian rhythm is a bit different of what we are used to... But these repairs will eventually allow us to enjoy smooth sailing with a full set of sails.

Kristin's Determination and Culinary Ventures: One of our challenges is Kristin's limited mobility due to her recent accident. She continues to work diligently on revalidation exercises to regain flexibility in her left ankle and strength in her left calf. While she can enjoy swimming and snorkeling, going ashore remains a logistical challenge. Nevertheless, her spirits remain high, and, together with Chloé, she's taken up cooking and baking, much to the delight of the entire crew.

A United Crew for Future Adventures: As we sail through Indonesian waters, the crew has formed strong bonds filled with humor and camaraderie. This unity is vital for the adventures that lie ahead as we explore the magnificent Indonesian archipelago in the coming months.

Stay updated with our journey by following our blog entries on [www.pacificpassion.org](www.pacificpassion.org) and check out the reels, stories, and pictures we share on Instagram [@pacific.passion](https://www.instagram.com/pacific.passion/).

Terima kasih dan sampai bertemu lagi! (Thank you, and see you again soon!)

Date: September 15, 2023

Greetings from the heart of the ocean! As the calendar flips to September 15, 2023, we find ourselves amidst an exhilarating journey that has seen us cover our first 2200km since setting sail from Krabi on July 1st. But let's be honest, our true adventure began at the end of August. We decided to pause briefly, recognizing that some essential systems on board required maintenance and repair.

A mere ten days ago, we celebrated a time-honored tradition among cruisers - our first crossing of the Equator, alongside the legendary Neptune. It's a tradition that we'll repeat for every other crossing on this incredible voyage.

A heartwarming aspect of our journey is the presence of Kristin, who continues to amaze us with her resilience despite her restored left ankle. We've devised a system that enables her to explore the mesmerizing waters of Indonesia, particularly around Belitung Island and Karimunjawa National Park. These pristine and fragile environments serve as a poignant reminder of the continued need for environmental conservation.

Our recent guest, Nathalie, left an indelible mark on our crew. Besides her extensive knowledge of Indonesia and its waters as a dive master, she enlightened us on the profound impact of food choices on our health and recovery systems. Nathalie firmly believes that Ultra Processed Food is a no-go and champions the use of healthy alternatives like seeds, nuts, and mushrooms. To our delight, she demonstrated that these choices can be not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. And her self baked breads are succulent! It was an eye-opening experience for all of us.

After Nathalie, our son Yahroun also departed in Belitung for his European adventures. To them and all our friends, we say: "SilverLining awaits your return soonest!"

Currently, we have a few vacant bunks on board, so if you're interested in joining our voyage, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll explore the possibilities together.

Our crew, now fortified with the addition of Philip, has settled into a rigorous sailing routine. Each member takes turns with 2-hour watches during sailing and 1.5-hour shifts while anchored. These rotations can be especially demanding during moonless nights. We've encountered numerous fishing boats operating without AIS and inadequately lit, underscoring the indispensable role of radar in ensuring safe navigation.

Our newly acquired fishing gear was put to the test while sailing, but alas, no catch to report. Either we're doing something wrong or the Java Sea has been over-fished. The reality is that Indonesia, with its staggering population of 275 million people spread across 14,000 islands, faces the monumental challenge of feeding its people.

Sailing the Java Sea at this time of year, with its relentless South Easterly winds, currents, and waves, doesn't make for the most comfortable voyage. Yet, SilverLining has weathered more formidable seas in the past, leaving us with unwavering confidence that she'll deliver us safely to our destinations.

Our next destination: Bali and Lombok, promising yet another set of unforgettable experiences.

Don't forget to follow our blog entries on our website, www.pacificpassion.org, and catch a glimpse of our journey through reels, stories, and pictures on Instagram @pacific.passion.

We hope that Pacific Passion continues to inspire you to seek adventure and embrace the beauty of our world!

Greetings from the Pacific Passion team! As we find ourselves at the threshold of September, we are thrilled to share the latest developments in our journey to make a difference. This past month has been marked by significant milestones, renewed determination, and the unwavering support of our friends and allies.

Kristin's Resilience: First and foremost, we want to update you on Kristin's remarkable progress. Following her unfortunate ankle injury, Kristin underwent surgery with state-of-the-art implants and received exceptional care. Her courage and resilience have been nothing short of inspirational. She is now three weeks into her recovery and has already started her rehabilitation journey. We are immensely proud of her determination, and we have no doubt that she will continue to inspire us throughout this project.

Kristin's injury served as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by wheelchair-bound individuals. The simple tasks we often take for granted, such as moving around or accessing basic amenities like showers and toilets, can become monumental hurdles. It strengthens our resolve to create a more inclusive world through the Pacific Passion Project.

New Crew Members and Leadership: Last month, SilverLining saw some new faces joining our crew. Yahroun, his partner Chloe, and our good friend Nathalie have embarked on this adventure with us, eager to be part of our voyage from Singapore's Raffles Marina to Indonesia. Alongside them, we have welcomed Glen, Gerald, and Cherry(lyn) as the core crew, led by the experienced Captain Joe. Their skills, positive spirits, and collaborative efforts promise an exciting and successful voyage ahead.

Boat Refit and Overhauls: In light of Kristin's temporary inability to move freely on board, we made the decision to undertake an overhaul of our main engine and address repairs for some of our appliances. Safety is our top priority, and addressing these issues while docked in Singapore ensures the effectiveness and reliability of our equipment. We are deeply grateful to our long-time friend, Seene, whose invaluable assistance made this endeavor possible.

Fishing Gear Upgrade: We've left no stone unturned in our quest to make the Pacific Passion vessel fully equipped for our project. We have stocked up on new fishing gear (thank you Dirk & Chris!), leaving us with no excuses when it comes to catching fish of any size. But, rest assured, our commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency remains unwavering!

Sunset Casting-Off Party: To celebrate these achievements and to bid farewell to our closest family and friends, we hosted a memorable sunset casting-off party at the end of last month. It was an evening filled with anticipation, excitement, and heartfelt goodbyes as we prepare to set sail on this incredible journey.

Join Us on Our Adventure: As we inch closer to our departure date, we invite you to follow our journey on the Pacific Passion website (www.pacificpassion.org) and the pacific.passion Instagram pages. There, you'll find captivating stories and breathtaking photos that document our progress and experiences as we embark on this life-changing project.

In closing, we'd like to express our gratitude for your unwavering support and encouragement. Together, we are making strides towards a more inclusive and compassionate world. Sampai jumpa, until we meet again on the open sea of possibilities!

The highlight of the past month was undoubtedly the successful reinstallation of the 35-meter high carbon mast onto The SilverLining. It was a monumental feat that required precision, expertise, and a bit of engineering ingenuity. The newly manufactured standing rig/rods from Europa seamlessly found their place, each connection a testament to the dedication of our crew and the guidance of Enrico Franchetti, the visionary founder of MaxSpar in Genova, Italy. The mast's rake was expertly tuned to perfection, a testament to the artistry that goes into every detail of this remarkable vessel.

The process of installing a mast of such grand proportions is no small feat. It's a carefully choreographed dance that involves a 120-ton crane working in harmony with a smaller crane to achieve perfect balance. On the day of the mast's triumphant return, the shipyard was bustling with the energy of about 24 individuals, including our motivated SilverLining crew led by the capable Captain Joe. The teamwork was palpable, and as the mast settled into place, a collective sigh of accomplishment filled the air.

Beyond the awe-inspiring physicality of this endeavor lies a web of intricate connections, unseen to the casual observer. Inside the mast, a network of hydraulic conduits powers the vessel's essential systems – from powering the sails, the navigation and utility lighting to state of the art communication. The meticulous restoration of these connections, along with the integration of new dyneema ropes and halyards, consumed more than a full week of dedicated effort.

Following this monumental achievement, The SilverLining embarked on a journey from Krabi to Phuket and eventually to Raffles Marina in Singapore. A reunion of epic proportions awaited our arrival, with family members eagerly awaiting our return. It was a heartwarming sight as my wife Kristin, our daughter Auberie, her husband Jorim, and our three beloved grandkids greeted us on the shores of Singapore. A new chapter of our journey began, with Kristin officially joining the SilverLining crew for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

However, life has a way of injecting its own narrative into even the most meticulously crafted plans. On July 25th, a moment of simple family joy turned into an unexpected challenge. Kristin, holding our two-year-old granddaughter Noralie in her arms, suffered a serious ankle injury after a slip at the Marina swimming pool. The diagnosis was complex – a dislocated ankle, a triple fracture, and torn ligaments.

Our focus shifted immediately to Kristin's well-being, and we swiftly rearranged our plans to ensure her care and recovery. Such is the nature of life's unpredictability – it demands our adaptability and resilience. With the advantage of retirement, we've been granted the gift of time, allowing us to prioritize what truly matters.

As we pause and pivot to support Kristin's healing journey, we're reminded that every twist in the road brings its own lessons. Our Pacific Passion project remains vibrant and unwavering, a testament to the spirit of adventure that propels us forward. Stay tuned for the next chapter in our journey, as we navigate these uncharted waters and continue to chase the horizon.

With gratitude for your unwavering support,

Philip Hermans Founder, Pacific Passion www.pacificpassion.org

Hello, fellow adventurers and sailing enthusiasts! Today, July 1st, 2023, marks a truly special day for me and my family. Not only is it the first day of my retirement, but it also signifies the beginning of an exciting new chapter—the kickoff of our Pacific Passion project. Allow me to take you on a journey of passion, determination, and the beauty of the open seas.

As we embarked on this incredible venture, I found myself on a flight from Singapore to the breathtaking shores of Krabi, Thailand. It was here that I reunited with the SilverLining, eagerly awaiting her mast, which had been removed earlier in the year for essential maintenance and replacement. The mast, boom, standing rig, halyards, and ropes— all carefully crafted in Italy by Maxspar and their partners—were all being meticulously assembled by a dedicated crew.

Let me introduce you to the incredible individuals who have joined me on this ambitious endeavor. The crew, consisting of Joe, Glenn, Victor, Phong, and our newest recruit, Matea, is working tirelessly to prepare the mast and her attachments, ensuring that everything is in perfect order. They are not alone in this monumental task. The skilled workers and employees of Port Takola, under the expert guidance of Matthew, have joined forces to bring this nautical dream to life.

We still have a few days of intense work ahead of us before the grand moment when the 35-meter-long mast will be gracefully hoisted into place. It's an awe-inspiring feat that requires precision, teamwork, and a touch of magic. The anticipation is palpable as we inch closer to making this dream a reality.

While words alone cannot capture the true essence of this adventure, we invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey through our blog. Although we may not post an abundance of pictures here, there is so much more to explore and discover on our Instagram account, @Pacific.Passion. So be sure to follow us there for a visual feast of breathtaking moments, behind-the-scenes insights, and the raw beauty of the vast ocean that lies ahead.

As we set sail into uncharted waters, the Pacific Passion project embodies the spirit of exploration, freedom, and lifelong dreams. It symbolizes the unwavering pursuit of what sets our souls on fire and serves as a reminder that retirement doesn't mark the end, but rather the beginning of a new and invigorating chapter in life.

Stay tuned for updates as we navigate the challenges, triumphs, and wonders that lie ahead. I am excited to share this incredible journey with all of you and hope that it ignites a spark of inspiration within your hearts.

Philip