What first inspired you to sail overseas?
I was very fortunate to have been involved in competitive racing from a young age. In the Olympic classes, especially the Finn the majority of your racing takes place overseas so by the time I retired from the Finn class at 26 I had spent the majority of my time out of the country.
What are your most memorable destinations? Have you had any unique experiences you would like to share?
I was very lucky to have the opportunity to transition from racing large yachts to a rotational position on a large privately owned yacht with an intensive worldwide cruising program.
Memorable destinations would include Alaska and the San Blas Islands, Panama.
A decade onboard SY Christopher provided a lifetime’s worth of unique experiences!
What are some of the biggest challenges of international sailing?
The biggest challenges are actually far more simple than you would imagine. Arriving to a new destination it is initially always tricky to find the lay of the land and source basic essentials given language barriers, differing electrical networks and local customs.
Also physically getting crew to and from the vessel from the other side of the globe.
Has living on the water changed your perspective on life? If so, in what way?
It’s hard to say, I have been doing it so long at this point I am not sure what my perspective was before! It definitely makes you more self-reliant dealing with breakdowns off the beaten track.
I would also say that it makes me appreciate my life at home.
Any advice for those aspiring to sail internationally?
All I would say it get out and do it. It’s not as daunting as it seems and there are some amazing experiences on offer.
Who would you like to hear from next? Contact the
Club Secretary to share your story or nominate a fellow Member!