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Just when you think you've seen it all, Mother Nature surprises you! Now and then, Mother Nature brings me to my knees, and shows me that while I may have seen a lot of her violence and her beauty in my lifetime, I haven’t seen it all! We dropped anchor in the tranquil embrace of Bahia San Lorenzo, a haven that grants access to the awe-inspiring Cave (Cueva de la Linea) nestled within the enchanting Haitises National Park. In the morning the bay unfolded its charm—a fusion reminiscent of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam and Ko Pi Pi in Thailand. Haitises National Park, a treasure trove of natural wonders, unveils its uniqueness through the symbiotic dance of mangroves, the rugged karst landscape, and the captivating islets. These islets are impressive: rocks 30-40m high, coming out of the sea and covered in lush vegetation and rice fields. Some scenes of Jurassic Park were recorded here in Los Haitises, and we can see why. It really is like a lost world. Navigating through a short dinghy trip beneath the sprawling canopy of big shady mangroves, we discovered that Los Haitises boasts the largest mangrove forests in the Caribbean. As our boat gracefully glided through secluded bays and islands, we were joined by a graceful entourage of frigate birds and pelicans, nature's companions accompanying our maritime odyssey. A brief walk of just 20 minutes led us to the doorstep of a hidden gem: Paraiso Cano Hondo, a sanctuary where the elements harmonize, offers a retreat into a magical world. This amazing eco-lodge is surrounded by many waterfalls, which are flowing right through the property, creating many natural swimming pools. You can cool down in these pools, enjoy the refreshing water, take stunning photos and find your private spot.  A truly magical place. Rice [...]

Last week we set our course across the mystical Mona Passage to SAMANA BAY (DOM REP). With 150 nautical miles ahead, (22 hours of sailing) the Mona Passage demands our full respect and attention. With anticipation, our sails catch the Caribbean breeze, guiding us to the Bay of Samana. The thrill of witnessing humpback whales in their natural habitat becomes the heartbeat of our adventure. Isla Mona, nestled proudly in Puerto Rico's embrace, unveils depths beyond a thousand meters, guarded by the notorious "Hourglass Shoal" near the Dominican Republic, warning of challenges like "Tide rips and heavy swells." Surprisingly, the undersea extension of the Dominican Republic's east coast, shaped like a horizontal hourglass, defies expectations. It reveals depths on both sides, marking the border between the Caribbean Sea and the vast North Atlantic. Night sailing brings a unique charm, but do you ever feel a hint of fear when navigating the open waters in the dark? Share your thoughts below! As sailors, our focus extends beyond navigating treacherous waters; it embraces the vibrant marine life. The Bay of Samana beckons, promising encounters with humpback whales. Every year, up to 2,000 of these gentle giants grace these waters, turning it into a breathtaking spectacle. Entering Samana Bay at sunrise, we were captivated by the beauty of the Dominican Republic and delighted to witness 8 whales dancing in the morning light. An enchanting start to a day filled with ocean wonders. Torsten after 20 hours Arrival Samaná Bay Docked at Puerto Bahia Marina in Samana Bay—where every boater's dream is met. From accommodating vessels up to 150 feet to full-service amenities, 2 Restaurants, wifi, mini-market, gym, and 2 infinity pools. A sailor's haven with the perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Highly recommend making this marina your port of call! From morning [...]

Located just to the west of the USVI and BVI, the islands of Vieques, Culebra, and Culebrita dominate the Spanish Virgin Islands cruising grounds. You’ll find all sorts of habitats including mangroves, rocky coastlines, vibrant coral, and gorgeous caribbean sandy beaches. Top highlights include hiking to the lighthouse on Culebrita, swimming, visiting the notorious target practice tanks on stunning Flamenco Beach (or Playa Flamenco) at Culebra, and witnessing the bioluminescence at Mosquito Bay. Lighthouse As we made our way around the east end of Culebra, the island of Culebrita came into view. We headed over to Culebrita, and we anchored Ambra in turquoise water near the Culebrita Lighthouse. Drone view The lighthouse is the only remaining Spanish-era structure in the Culebra archipelago. Construction of the lighthouse began on September 25, 1882, and was completed on February 25, 1886. The Spanish Crown built the lighthouse to help secure its claim over the main island of Culebra. We set off on a 15-minuted hike that afforded some amazing views. We spent a long while up at the lighthouse, and we got some beautiful photos. Savoring a serene dinner aboard Ambra as the Caribbean sun dips below the horizon. Under the moonlit sky, giant fishes gracefully dance around our boat, adding a touch of enchantment to our nautical journey. Join us, where waves tell tales of the past, and every shore promises tranquility. Back to boat life, where the gentle sway of our Swan 48 becomes the rhythm of our days. Embracing the serenity of living aboard, the sea becomes our home once again.

Enhance your brand's presence in the world of sailing! Today, we're going to set our course towards the fascinating world of influencer marketing and explore how it can benefit the sailing industry. So, hoist the sails and get ready for my deep dive into the advantages of influencer marketing. 1. Mass Reach: One of the most compelling advantages of influencer marketing is the massive audience reach it offers. Influencers typically boast a substantial following, which can be an invaluable channel to promote sailing-related products and services. Whether it's high-performance sailboats, innovative marine equipment, or sailing apparel, influencers can swiftly connect your brand with their extensive and engaged followers. 2. Relevance: The sailing community is all about authenticity, and influencer marketing thrives on just that. Followers genuinely choose to connect with influencers, making their product endorsements feel like a seamless addition to their personal preferences. When an influencer effectively promotes a sailing brand, it becomes an integral part of their followers' sailing world. 3. Trust: Building trust is a cornerstone of any successful brand, and influencers are no exception. These social media stars have invested time, effort, and dedication into crafting their own unique brand. Just like sailing brands strive to establish trust with their customers, influencers have earned the trust and loyalty of their followers. This trust can be seamlessly transferred to your sailing products or services when you partner with influencers. 4. Trendsetting: Influencers are trendsetters in their own right, and their followers look up to them as style and lifestyle icons. They influence not only the products their followers buy but also the experiences they seek. By partnering with influencers in the sailing industry, you can tap into their trendsetting abilities and present your brand as the epitome of what's in vogue on the open waters. 5. Clear [...]

Hallberg Rassy 43 Victoria Amorgos Greece 10 years living part time on board Dear Husband and Captain Torsten, I can hardly believe it's been ten years since that memorable day when you acquired your beloved sailing yacht, a Hallberg Rassy 43 named Victoria. It feels like just yesterday when we embarked on this incredible journey together. The adventures we've shared aboard Victoria are etched in my heart forever. Sailing from the serene Baltic Sea to the vibrant shores of Turkey was a dream come true. The memories of those azure waters, starlit nights, and the joyous laughter we shared on deck are treasures that time can never fade. Victoria, with her graceful lines and steadfast presence, became more than a vessel; she was our sanctuary and companion on the open sea. The countless sunsets we witnessed, the tranquil anchorages we discovered, and the warm hospitality we received in distant ports all became a part of our story. In 2019, we made the bittersweet decision to part with Victoria, selling her in Greece. While it was a difficult farewell to a faithful friend, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in our sailing adventures. Now, we find ourselves sailing our lovely Swan 48 named Ambra in the Caribbean. The turquoise waters and balmy breezes of this tropical paradise have brought a fresh dose of excitement and serenity to our lives. Ambra, like Victoria, has become our trusted companion in exploring the beauty of the world by sea. As I reflect on these past ten years, I am grateful for the journey we've taken, the vessels that have carried us, and the unwavering bond we share. Here's to another decade of thrilling voyages, tranquil moments, and new horizons, all aboard our beloved Ambra. May the wind always fill her sails, and [...]