Atlantic Crossing

Warderick Wells and Shroud Cay: Shades of turquoise!

Von |2024-04-16T21:05:44+02:00April 16th, 2024|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

The first significant island in the Exuma Cays Park is Shroud Cay, a curious 3-mile-long isle fringed by coral reefs with a heartland of mangroves and creeks. These areas offer really outstanding exploration by kayak, paddleboard or dinghy (if you're careful) through the mangrove creeks from the Exuma Bank side through to a gorgeous ocean beach on Exuma Sound. Trails from the beach to the top of the hill are clearly identifiable and you can climb to the top and take in a spectacular 360° view. This is a "must-see" if you enjoy pristine, spectacular, natural beauty and tranquility. Side Trip: Boo-Boo Hill Located on Warderick Wells, Boo-Boo Hill is the tallest hill on the cay and offers an amazing panoramic view of the Exumas as well as an unforgettable photo op. Atop Boo-Boo Cay is a lopsided monument created by bits of carved and painted driftwood left by cruisers to commemorate their visits. Legend has it that it's haunted by the unfortunate souls that have gone aground on the reef below. Some say you can hear them singing on moonlit nights (or it could just be the wind howling)...Nevertheless, the tradition is for cruisers to leave an offering atop Boo-Boo Hill to appease King Neptune and be blessed with good winds and smooth seas. Some come with pre-prepared signs or wood and paint, while others scrounge the beach for driftwood, seaweed, shells, coral and other treasures and make their offering on the spot. We haven't heard yet if it makes a difference what kind of offering you make but why not try it? It can't hurt.

Nassau: Colonial Splendor, Caribbean Charms, and Cruise Ship Chaos

Von |2024-03-28T12:01:39+01:00März 28th, 2024|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , , |

Three days in Nassau: admidst its bustling cruise ship industry, we discovered some charming colonial attractions. As Torsten battled the wind alone on , we bid farewell to Anette and Mark, welcoming Laurence and Jaci into our island adventure. In two days in Nassau, you can visit historical sites like Fort Charlotte and Queen's Staircase, explore colonial architecture in downtown, experience local culture at the Straw Market, and unwind at Junkanoo Beach. Discovering Nassau's colonial charm : historic sites, vibrant culture, and a lot of cruise ship tourists crowding the streets, often leading to long lines at popular attractions and a more commercialized atmosphere in some areas. Bye, Bye Nassau! After a stunning sail, we arrived at Highborne Cay in the Exumas under the cloak of nightfall. Thank you @ Margaritaville Beach Resort for having us!

Sailing & Surf Paradise: Exploring the Southern Charms of Puerto Rico

Von |2024-02-20T13:23:55+01:00Februar 18th, 2024|Kategorien: Atlantic Crossing, Boatlife, Nautor’s Swan, Puerto Rico, Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , |

Embarking on a nautical journey in the south of Puerto Rico unveils a world where the waves become your dance partners! Rincon's Serenade of Surf and Sun: Rincon, known for its mesmerizing waves, attracts sailors seeking the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. As a sailing enthusiast, navigating through the crystalline waters surrounding Rincon feels like choreography with the ocean's rhythmic dance. The vibrant surf culture adds a unique charm to this coastal gem, making it an ideal destination for those craving a connection with both nature and the thrill of the sea. Don’t miss the LIGHTHOUSE | Surrounding the Faro de Punta Higuero (Rincón's lighthouse), Parque Pasivo El Faro has small kiosks at the water's edge. If you're lucky, you may spot a whale in the distance. Exploring Ponce – Carnival, History, and Beyond: Ponce has a yesteryear charm and an increasingly cosmopolitan vibe! Dive into the vibrant chaos of the Ponce Carnival, a lively celebration that unfolds with colorful parades, music, and a jubilant atmosphere. Ponce's vejigante masks are made of lapermâché and are most prominent during the February carnival. Many have tican and Native American elements. Sailing into Ponce provides a unique perspective, allowing you to witness the festivities from the tranquil waters, creating a memorable contrast to the lively streets. Ponce Yacht and Fishing Club: For sailors seeking a haven off the coast, the Ponce Yacht and Fishing Club is a maritime sanctuary. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this club offers not just a dock for your vessel but a community where fellow sailors share tales of the sea. Enjoy the camaraderie, facilities, and perhaps even participate in local regattas for an added dash of competitive spirit. From food trucks to farm-to-table restaurants to simple roadside stands, the southwest has great dining and snacking options. Sample [...]

Sailing Serenity: Exploring the Unspoiled Beauty of Isla de Vieques

Von |2024-02-13T15:13:20+01:00Februar 13th, 2024|Kategorien: Puerto Rico, Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

Looking for a place to play Robinson Crusoe? Well, here you can wander along almost any stretch of sand and rarely see another soul. As you sail along the pristine coastline, the allure of secluded beaches and untouched landscapes welcomes you to a world of tranquility. For decades, Vieques grappled with a tumultuous history, marked by a clash between islanders and distant federal authorities. Two-thirds of the island's expanse, predominantly on the eastern end, served as a U.S. Navy bombing range, while the western tip functioned as an ammunition dump. The aftermath of a tragic bombing incident in April 1999 sparked widespread protests, eventually leading to the military's departure on May 1, 2003. Paradoxically, the military presence inadvertently shielded Vieques from rampant resort development. Today, the former naval grounds have transformed into the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. The woodsy western end boasts cycling trails, offering a scenic ride around Monte Pirata, the island's highest peak. Year by year, more of the eastern region opens up, granting access to breathtaking beaches that gently slope into the calm embrace of turquoise waters. One of the refuge's highlights is Puerto Mosquito, a bay shaped like a flask inhabited by bioluminescent microorganisms. Kayakers can revel in the enchanting spectacle of glowing waters at night, creating a mesmerizing experience amidst nature's wonders. Sailing the turquoise waters around Vieques, Puerto Rico, with a light breeze, savoring lobster delights, and celebrating 35 years of cherished friendship with Angela Barzen 💋 As you sail around Vieques, the endless palms lining the shore stand testament to the island's pristine allure. The absence of resort developers, coupled with the protection afforded by the wildlife refuge, ensures an untouched paradise for those seeking solace on the high seas. In the embrace of Isla de Vieques, the echoes of a tumultuous past [...]

Swan Magazine

Von |2023-09-16T12:59:45+02:00September 16th, 2023|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , , |

Life's most touching surprises often arrive when least expected. We're deeply thankful to Nautor's Swan for documenting our dream journey from Tuscany to the Caribbean in their magazine. Owning a Swan is not just about the boat itself; it’s about Unparalleled Service for Swan Owners Owning a Swan is not just about the boat itself; it's about being part of a community that values excellence and adventure. Nautor's Swan provides an unparalleled level of service and support to their boat owners. 1. Customization: Swan owners have the opportunity to customize their yachts to their exact specifications, ensuring that each boat is a unique reflection of its owner's desires. 2. Maintenance and Repairs: Nautor's Swan offers a global network of service centers staffed by highly trained professionals. This ensures that Swan owners receive top-notch maintenance and repair services wherever they may be sailing. 3. Events and Regattas: Nautor's Swan hosts a range of exclusive events and regattas, allowing Swan owners to connect with fellow enthusiasts and put their boats to the test in friendly competition. 4. Resale Value: Swan yachts are renowned for retaining their value over time. The brand's reputation for quality and performance makes Swan boats highly sought after in the pre-owned market. Conclusion Nautor's Swan stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of sailing. Their iconic sailboat designs, commitment to innovation, and unwavering dedication to providing outstanding service to Swan boat owners make them a true leader in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or dreaming of your first voyage, Nautor's Swan offers an experience like no other, where elegance and performance come together on the open seas. being part of a community that values excellence and adventure. Nautor's Swan provides an unparalleled level of service and support to their boat owners.

After the Atlantic crossing – what next?

Von |2023-08-09T08:03:58+02:00August 5th, 2023|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , |

Planning Your Next Move After the Adventure!     Ahoy, fellow sailors!   Let me tell you, crossing the Atlantic was an epic adventure of a lifetime! The excitement was contagious as we left the Mediterranean, sailed down to the Canary Islands, and geared up for the big Atlantic crossing with our trusty boat, Ambra. We were all so stoked and spent hours and hours prepping for the journey – safety checks, communication setups, weather forecasts, you name it!     But you know what made the whole experience even better? The legendary ARC parties every night! Oh boy, we danced, laughed, and made friends for life. It was like one big sailing festival on the high seas!   After we docked in St. Lucia, the partying didn't stop. We had a whole week of celebration with all the other ARC participants. Picture this: a bunch of sailors planning the best spots for Christmas and New Year's Eve Party – we were living the dream!     Now, the big question was, what's next for us salty souls? Some crew members decided one ocean crossing was enough for them. Fair enough, it's not for everyone! But there were those adventure junkies who couldn't get enough and were ready to take on the Pacific like true sailing warriors.     But wait, here's the fun part – most sailors planned the crossing, but the post-Atlantic steps? Not so much. It was like, "Our plan is to have no plan" – until the hurricane season came knocking. Not a great idea, trust me!   Planning the next steps is crucial, and in this blog post, we will explore some options and considerations for sailors after completing the Atlantic crossing.   After our arrival in St. Lucia we had the next party [...]

St.Martin and Sint Maarten 5 years after Hurricane Irma

Von |2023-03-17T11:19:37+01:00März 17th, 2023|Kategorien: Sailing, Worldcruising|Tags: , , , , , |

Pinel Island St. Martin is known for its half-French, half-Dutch culture, the Sint Maarten – Heineken-Regatta, and its picturesque beaches (with famous views of the planes approaching and leaving the Caribbean island). Anchorage Pinel Grand Case Beach 5 years after Irma and rebuilding is far from being completed. Hurricane Irma struck the island of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin on September 6th, 2017. Irma was a category 5 storm with strong winds that reached a peak intensity of 177 mph (285 km/h). Hurricane Irma had a devastating effect on the infrastructure of the island, entire marinas on the French side of Saint Martin were left in ruins due to boats colliding with each other as a result of the strong winds. Approximately 95% of the buildings in Sint Maarten/ Saint Martin were damaged and 60% of those buildings were totally uninhabitable. 5,5 years later and the destruction caused by Irma is still visible. Orient Bay: 5 years after Hurricane Irma and rebuilding is far from being completed. The destruction caused by Irma is still visible…. Don’t miss Pinel Island, a charming small island just a 5-10 minute boat ride from Orient Bay. Clear turquoise water and white sand beach. A slice of heaven! There are two restaurants on the island. We visited Karibuni. You can go for a hike, see iguanas, snorkel and stay the night ⚓️, sometimes some swell coming over the reef. Karibuni Right next to the runway of Saint Martin's airport, there’s Maho Beach. It is right under the flight path of the planes taking off and landing, so they fly extremely low here. When they take off, they expel jet blasts, which can literally blow you away. The Dutch side of St. Maarten generally sees more tourists, thanks to being home to the airport and the place where cruise ships dock. [...]

Reisen 🆚 Urlaub?
Was ist der Unterschied?

Von |2023-03-12T21:36:05+01:00März 12th, 2023|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , , , |

Der erste wirklich große Unterschied ist wohl die Zeit, die man für eine Reise investieren muss. Während ein Urlaub drei Wochen meist nicht überschreitet, segeln manche Globetrotter jahrelang durch die Welt. Intensives Reisen bringt Dich im Gegensatz zu einem erholsamen Urlaub an Deine Grenzen. Wer reist, sollte risikobereit sein. Zu einer langen Reise mit einem Segelschiff gehören auch schlechte Tage, Verzweiflung, Probleme und vielleicht sogar der ein oder andere kleine „Nervenzusammenbruch“ dazu, denn vor allem an diesen intensiven Gefühlen und den damit verbundenen Problemstellungen und deren Lösung kannst Du charakterlich wirklich wachsen. Da eine Reise eben keine „heile Traumwelt“ ist, sondern Dich ständig vor Probleme stellt und Dich dazu zwingt wichtige Dinge zu organisieren, gibt sie Dir ständig die Gelegenheit neue Fähigkeiten zu entwickeln und ein starkes Selbstbewusstsein zu erlangen. Dabei ist es vor allem die Unvorhersehbarkeit – wie sich die Reise entwickelt, welche Route Du genau einschlägst oder welche Herausforderungen der nächste Tag für Dich bereithält, die Deine Zeit auf Reisen zu etwas Besonderem macht an dem Du persönlich wachsen kannst. Wir erleben den Alltag in anderen Ländern und Kulturen hautnah und erleben die Dinge, die auch die Einheimischen täglich tun und können so ein Land sehr intensiv kennenlernen. Das spannende an unserer Reise ist für mich: • Wir lernen und sehen Dinge, von denen wir zuvor nie gehört haben. • Wir verlassen jeden Tag die Komfortzone und machen Dinge, die wir uns vor einem Jahr nie zugetraut hätten. Wir haben in den letzten Monaten ein Erdbeben, ein Seebeben, 2 Vulkanausbrüche und mehrere Stürme erlebt. Wir erfahren jeden Tag viel über die Probleme der Einheimischen auf den karibischen Inseln. Trotz massiven Infrastruktur-Problemen und ständigen Hurrikan-Gefahren sind die Menschen hier übrigens unglaublich gelassen und positiv. Als Reisender lernt man so ganz schnell, sich selbst nicht als „Zentrum des Universums “ [...]

We are proud to share that we made it into the latest Yacht Magazine (Germany) !

Von |2023-08-27T08:03:15+02:00März 8th, 2023|Kategorien: Nautor’s Swan, Sailing|Tags: , , |

Atlantic crossing: The CEO of a major company takes a sabbatical to cross the Atlantic. Telekom-CEO Tim Höttges did exactly that on our Swan 48 Ambra. How was it for him and skipper Torsten? Atlantic Crossing: Telekom-CEO Tim Höttges hat eine Auszeit genommen und ist auf unserer Swan 48 Ambra über den Atlantik mit gesegelt. Wie war es für ihn und unseren Skipper Torsten Krumm? Check out⬇️ Hier gehts zum Yacht Artikel Ambra bei der Ankunft vor St.Lucia in der Karibik an der Ziellinie der ARC

How to cook in the middle of the Atlantic !!!

Von |2022-11-26T06:52:44+01:00November 23rd, 2022|Kategorien: Atlantic Crossing, cooking, On Bord, Sailing, Worldcruising|Tags: , , , , |

Where we are now! Thomas and Andreas Ambra Food Blog, Arc Atlantic crossing 2022, from Thomas and Andreas Cooking on board can be quite challenging As we are both passionate hobby cooks we wanted to challenge ourselves and see how good we could cook in the middle of the Atlantic. Preparing the meals We had the luxury to prepare everything in an rb&b apartment in Las Palmas during 7 days prior to our departure on the 20th November 2022. Cooking with a view So we decided to precook and pressure can about half of the hot dinners. We planned for 16 days plus 2 days safety on top. Andreas had brought a pressure canner on his lap as hand luggage in the airplane from Cologne. An unusual carry on item in an airplane seat. Next challenge was to find the properly sized pressure Glas containers in Las Palmas, that would fit our pot. For 8 dishes needed around 24 containers. After several scouting trips in the neighborhood and with the help of scout Melli, we bought about 30 containers plus some smaller sized ones for confined tomatoes and garlic. This allowed us to pressure can our precooked meals at 120 degrees in order to make sure any botulism (although very rare) is wiped out. We decided to precook about half of the dinners and cook the rest ‘live’. We managed to cook about two meals a day in the apartment as the glasses had to be under pressure for an 1,5 hours. We prepared oriental lamb with raisins, figues, pine nuts. Spanish porc with walnuts and apples. Rabbit stew with roasted chestnut sauce, a really good Bolognese with self made veal stock, Italian Salciccia sauce with anis and white wine, chili von carne with chipotle jalapeño and smoked peppers, boeuf [...]

Hallo September….. Unser Abenteuer beginnt!

Von |2022-09-02T19:05:54+02:00August 30th, 2022|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: , , , |

Hey, captain….you’re doing great, facing all those hard days as bravely as you can, so fierce, so intense… so beautifully human. Ein Segler oder Skipper muss verdammt viele Rollen an Bord besetzen und eine Menge Fähigkeiten besitzen. Unbedingt gefragt sind Wissen und handwerkliches Geschick ebenso wie körperliche und mentale Fitness. 15 Tonnen Ambra und ganz viele To Do’s Torsten muss als Captain der Ambra an so viele Dinge denken, auch die wichtigsten Ersatzteile müssen unbedingt noch alle an Bord und die Bord-Apotheke entwickelt sich momentan zu einem Mini-Krankenhaus. Sicher ist sicher. Ein Captain ist Navigator, Hausmeister, Handwerker, Techniker, Elektroniker, Mechatroniker, Maschinenbauer, Meteorologe, Informatiker, Sanitäter, Werkstoffexperte, Bootsbauer und Segelmacher aber auch Schwimmer, Taucher, Astronom und Ozeanograf. Bis Ende September müssen wir raus aus dem Mittelmeer! Jetzt geht es erstmal auf die Balearen. Gerade vor unserer Reise in die Karibik wird uns das bei unseren Vorbereitungen täglich bewusst. 100% perfekt fühlt man sich nie bei einem 15 Tonnen Schiff mit so viel Technik an Bord wie Generator, Water Maker, Waschmaschine, Trockner, Lithium Ionen Batterien, Kühlschränke etc…. es ist komplex. Wir haben Ersatzteile geordert, machen Updates und Seminare, viele Pakete sind für uns auf dem Weg nach Mallorca und nach Gran Canaria. Wir haben auch jetzt erst realisiert wieviel eine 5-köpfige Crew trinkt und isst. Wir haben zwar einen Water Maker, aber falls der ausfällt, brauchen wir zur Sicherheit pro Person 2-3 l Trinkwasser am Tag. Seufz… 100 Liter Wasser unter dem Boden?😂 Wir alle müssen auf See viele Rollen erfüllen. Umfassend kompetent fühlt sich folglich kaum jemand. Selbstzweifel helfen aber auch nicht weiter. Was tun? Letzter Tag in Cagliari! Vor allem aber: Lasst Euch beim Segeln nicht von den Erwartungen vermeintlicher Könner überfrachten. Denn das kann unsicher machen, lässt Leidenschaften vergessen, steigert den Druck, Fehler vermeiden zu müssen, und führt zu Versagensängsten. [...]

Sailing across the Atlantic in the tradewinds

Von |2022-02-21T10:43:06+01:00Januar 12th, 2022|Kategorien: Sailing|Tags: |

ARC 22 - we are so excited! The ultimate plan is to cross the Atlantic this year so although we could spend a lifetime in the Mediterranean! The earliest time for our Atlantic crossing from the Canaries along the NE trade wind route is after the middle of November, as such a departure ensures that landfall in one of the Caribbean islands is made in early December at the beginning of the safe winter season. Spring/Summer 22: Our route from Tuscany to Sicily to Mallorca The majority of round the world voyages undertaken by cruising sailors are sailed from east to west for the very good reason that such a route benefits from mostly favourable conditions. With good planning the prevailing wind systems will ensure that most sailing will be done in trade wind conditions, and the timing also avoids being in a critical area during the tropical storm seasons. Mallorca-Gibraltar Check out our route 🧭 Gibraltar-Madeira-Gran Canaria-St.Lucia It’s all about choosing the right route!

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