Category: Sava

Why We Love Autopilot

It’s nice to post about good news, and we are so happy that Brian got the autopilot working! It’s been a long upwind slog without it. Read on for more reasons why we love autopilot.

The Mona Passage

The trip we just took is considered a tough one. Known as The Mona Passage, it is infamous in sailing circles, which I’ve just recently learned. This is because of the trade winds and variable tidal currents, both of which can kick up huge waves. We stayed in Samaná almost 2 weeks waiting for the perfect weather window, and we got it!

Samana to Puerto Real
Samaná to Puerto Real by boat

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Sailing Overnight Alone (and together)

Part of the reason we hired Jeff, the captain who came with us from Provo to Luperón, was that we were nervous about our first night sail. While that passage was not easy, and a few things went wrong, we made it fine. Next up: getting to the south of the D.R, by sailing overnight alone.

Long Passage For Two Sailing Overnight

The next passage, from Luperon to Samaná, was almost the same distance. And we knew we had to do it with just the two of us. Sailing at night is challenging, especially when the auto pilot isn’t working, which ours wasn’t at the time. Someone has to be at the wheel the entire time. So shift work is required.

Domino On The Boat

I’ve mentioned Domino here and there in our posts but have not given her the full attention she deserves. People want to see more of our faithful traveling cat. Which is understandable as she is very cute. So this post contains photos of Domino on the boat. Don’t worry, she’s faring well since her first month on board sailing vessel Sava.

Sailing with A Cat

We haven’t had any issues with Domino in any of the countries we’ve visited. Either they haven’t asked about pets or when we’ve said we have a cat, someone will come to check her out but no one ever has. We have papers confirming her latest shots, but haven’t needed them yet.

Meal Times Must be Regular

Domino likes her meals at set times. This hasn’t changed a bit versus living in a house. She wakes us up at sunrise for breakfast. Sometimes she’s served as our alarm clock when we needed to get up to set sail or go to shore.

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