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
Congratulations Philip, Kristen and crew! Splice the mainbrace!!
I will look forward to more news of your adventure.
Chris and I launched our Bonova (47ft FP Cat) in La Rochelle in March this year and sailed her, across the Bay of Biscay, and down the Spanish coast into the Med, over a 12 week period. She is now berthed in Tunisia while we are back home for a rest and to welcome a new grandchild. We will return to her later this year, to continue our plan to cross the Atlantic and Pacific, and to eventually bring her home to Mooloolaba.
I wish you fair seas, health and stamina. I hope that our courses cross at some point in the…
Thank you Hubert and Gratienne. The start is a bit slower than intended because of the refit works, but it will make our life much more easy in the years thereafter - Reculer Pour Mieux Sauter! Stay in touch!
The journey that you and Kristin are embarking upon seems like a realization of a lifelong dream. We extend our heartfelt wishes to both of you as you embark on this incredible venture. May you experience the very best throughout your journey.