Posts in Category: Day to Day

Surviving the Unexpected: Coping with Emergencies Onboard Your Boat

On June 8, 2023 by carlandjenny With 0 Comments - Day to Day

This week we are going to talk about surviving the unexpected, coping with emergencies at sea.
Sailing can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s important to remember that it also comes with risks. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, emergencies can happen at any time, and being prepared can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common emergencies that can occur on a boat and how to deal with them.

1. Equipment failure

Equipment failure is one of the most common emergencies that sailors face. It can range from a broken sail or engine failure to a more serious issue such as a hole in the hull. If you experience equipment failure, the first step is to assess the situation and determine the severity of the problem. If it’s a minor issue, such as a broken sail, you may be able to repair it yourself. However, if it’s a more serious problem, such as a hole in the hull, you’ll need to take immediate action to prevent the boat from sinking.
In the case of equipment failure, it’s important to have a well-stocked toolbox on board, with spare parts and tools that you may need for repairs. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in case the equipment failure is too severe to repair on your own. This could include having an emergency raft or dinghy on board in case you need to abandon the boat.

2. Man overboard

Another common emergency on boats is a man overboard situation. This can occur for a variety of reasons, such as a crew member slipping on a wet deck or being hit by a wave. If someone falls overboard, the first step is to quickly throw a lifebuoy or flotation device to the person in the water. You should then immediately turn the boat around and head back to the person, keeping them in sight at all times. It’s important to have a crew member on board who is trained in rescue techniques and knows how to safely pull the person back on board.
To prevent man overboard situations, it’s important to always wear a lifejacket while on deck, and to have safety lines and harnesses in place for all crew members.

3. Weather-related emergencies

Weather-related emergencies are another common concern for sailors. Storms, strong winds, and rough seas can all pose a threat to the safety of the boat and its crew. If you’re caught in bad weather, the first step is to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. This could mean changing course, reducing sail, or even heaving to until the storm passes.
It’s important to always keep an eye on weather forecasts and to have a plan in place in case of severe weather. This could include having a designated storm shelter area on board or having a backup plan for getting to a safe port or anchorage.

4. Medical emergencies

Medical emergencies can occur on boats just like they can on land. It’s important to have a well-stocked first aid kit on board, and to have at least one crew member who is trained in basic first aid techniques. In the case of a serious medical emergency, it’s important to call for help immediately and to follow any instructions given by medical professionals.
To prevent medical emergencies, it’s important to stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing to protect from the sun, and to take precautions to prevent seasickness.

5. Collision or grounding

Collisions and groundings can be serious emergencies on boats. If you collide with another vessel, the first step is to make sure everyone on board is safe and to assess the damage to the boat. If you run aground, the first step is to try to free the boat using your own resources. If that’s not possible, you may need to call for assistance.
To prevent collisions and groundings, it’s important to always keep a lookout for other vessels and to have navigation equipment on board that can help you avoid hazards. It’s also important to have a plan in place in case you do run aground, such as knowing the depth of the water and the location of any hazards.

6. Fire

A fire on board a boat can be a very dangerous situation, as there’s often no escape route. It’s important to have fire extinguishers on board, and to know how to use them. In the case of a fire, the first step is to try to contain it by closing any hatches or doors that can limit the fire’s oxygen supply. You should also turn off all sources of fuel and electricity, and call for help as soon as possible.
To prevent fires on board, it’s important to regularly inspect all electrical and fuel systems and to make sure that all equipment is properly maintained.
In conclusion, emergencies can happen at any time while sailing, and it’s important to be prepared for them. By having the right equipment on board, knowing basic emergency procedures, and staying alert to potential hazards, you can help keep yourself and your crew safe. Remember to always prioritize safety, and to never hesitate to call for help if you need it. With the right preparation and mindset, you can enjoy the beauty and excitement of sailing while minimizing the risks.
Comment below if you’ve had any emergencies aboard, no matter how minor, and how did you deal with it? Have you been onboard someone else’s boat when there was a problem and how did the skipper deal with it? Were you confident in their ability? Did they brief/debrief emergency procedures?
Next week: The Importance of a Thorough Pre-Passage Checklist: A Sailor’s Perspective
Fair winds and calm seas.
Carl and Jenny

If you enjoyed this blog post please check out our Freebies page where you can download other guides, and if you’re feeling really good consider having a look at our Support us page.

Sailing the World on a Budget: How to Fund and Live a Nomadic Sailing Lifestyle

On June 1, 2023 by carlandjenny With 0 Comments - Day to Day
For many people, the idea of living a nomadic sailing lifestyle is a dream come true. Being able to explore the world’s oceans, discover new cultures, and experience the freedom and adventure of life at sea is a thrilling prospect. However, funding such a lifestyle can be a significant challenge. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most effective ways to fund a nomadic sailing lifestyle.


1. Live frugally

The first step to funding a nomadic sailing lifestyle is to live frugally. This means minimizing your expenses as much as possible and living within your means. When you’re living on a sailboat, you’ll have fewer bills to pay than you would if you were living on land. However, there are still expenses to consider, such as boat maintenance, fuel, and mooring fees. By keeping your expenses low and living a minimalist lifestyle, you’ll be able to stretch your budget further and make your savings last longer.

2. Work remotely

Another way to fund a nomadic sailing lifestyle is to work remotely. With advances in technology, it’s easier than ever to work from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection. Many companies now offer remote work opportunities, which can be a great way to earn a steady income while you’re sailing. Alternatively, you could start your own online business or freelance as a digital nomad. By earning an income remotely, you’ll have the freedom to sail wherever you want while still being able to support yourself financially.

3. Charter your boat

If you own your own sailboat, you can generate income by chartering it out to others. Chartering your boat can be a lucrative way to earn money while you’re not using it, and it can help offset some of the costs associated with boat ownership. There are many companies that specialize in yacht chartering, and you can choose to rent out your boat for a day, a week, or even longer. Just make sure to do your research and find a reputable charter company to work with.

4. Teach sailing

If you have experience sailing, you can earn money by teaching others how to sail. There are many sailing schools and clubs that offer sailing lessons, and they’re always looking for experienced instructors. By teaching sailing, you’ll not only be able to earn money but also share your passion for sailing with others. Additionally, teaching sailing can be a great way to meet other sailors and network within the sailing community.

5. Blogging and Social Media

If you’re passionate about sailing and want to share your experiences with others, you can monetize your blog or social media account. By creating compelling content and building a following, you can attract sponsors and advertisers who will pay you to promote their products or services. Many sailing bloggers and social media influencers have been able to fund their sailing lifestyle through sponsorships, partnerships, and affiliate marketing.

6. Find seasonal work

Another option for funding a nomadic sailing lifestyle is to find seasonal work. Many resorts, marinas, and other tourist destinations offer seasonal employment opportunities, which can be a great way to earn money while you’re in port. Some examples of seasonal work include working as a bartender, server, or tour guide. By working seasonally, you’ll have the flexibility to sail during the off-season and work during the busy season.

In conclusion, funding a nomadic sailing lifestyle requires a combination of frugality, creativity, and resourcefulness. By living frugally, working remotely, chartering your boat, teaching sailing, monetizing your blog or social media account, and finding seasonal work, you can earn the money you need to support your sailing adventures. So if you’re passionate about sailing and want to explore the world’s oceans, don’t let finances hold you back.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and give it a go.

Question of the day;- Have you got any ideas on how to generate extra money when living a nomadic lifestyle? We’d love to hear from you, leave a comment below.

Next week:

“Surviving the Unexpected: Coping with Emergencies Onboard Your Boat”

Fair winds and calm seas.
Carl and Jenny

If you enjoyed this blog post please check out our Freebies page where you can download other guides, and if you’re feeling really good consider having a look at our Support us page.

The Benefits of Naturism on Boats: Exploring the Freedom and Wellness of a Clothing-Optional Lifestyle at Sea

On May 25, 2023 by carlandjenny With 0 Comments - Day to Day

Well it’s no secret that we are both naturists. We became “open” about it a few years ago. We were quite shocked to find out that quite a few of our friends were also naturists but didn’t like to admit to it. I (Carl) wrote a piece about how it helped me some time ago when I was diagnosed with complex PTSD. The post is over on our Patron page.

Naturism may shock some people, some may think it’s vulgar and dirty, others may think there’s some perverse connotation to it, but for many, the biggest survey ever into naturism has found 14% of people now describe themselves as naturists or nudists: an estimated 6.75 million – or one in seven people.

Naturism, or the practice of being naked in social and recreational settings, has been around for centuries. It’s a lifestyle that promotes body positivity, acceptance, and the freedom to express oneself without judgment. For those who love being on the water, naturism on boats is a natural extension of this lifestyle that can offer a range of benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing.

First and foremost, naturism on boats is great for physical health. Being naked allows the skin to breathe and soak up essential Vitamin D from the sun, which is important for maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system. Vitamin D also helps to reduce the risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and multiple sclerosis. Additionally, being naked on a boat can help to regulate body temperature, making it easier to stay cool in the hot sun and avoid overheating.

Beyond the physical benefits, naturism on boats can also have a positive impact on mental health. For many people, being naked in social settings can be a liberating experience that promotes body positivity and self-acceptance. Naturism on boats can provide a sense of freedom and connection to nature that can be difficult to find in our modern, technology-driven world. Being surrounded by the natural beauty of the ocean, the wind in your hair, and the sun on your skin can be a transformative experience that promotes relaxation, mindfulness, and a sense of calm.

Naturism on boats can also foster a sense of community and social connection. By participating in a naturist boating group or club, you can meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for being on the water and embracing a clothing-optional lifestyle. Naturism on boats can provide a sense of camaraderie and belonging that can be difficult to find in traditional social settings.

Another benefit of naturism on boats is the sense of adventure and exploration it can provide. Boating allows you to travel to new destinations, explore hidden coves and beaches, and experience the beauty of the ocean in a way that few other activities can match. Naturism on boats can provide an added sense of freedom and adventure, allowing you to connect with nature and explore new horizons without the constraints of clothing or societal norms.

Of course, as with any activity, it’s important to take proper safety precautions when engaging in naturism on boats. Make sure to wear appropriate sunscreen and protective gear, and be aware of potential hazards such as strong currents, wildlife, and inclement weather. Additionally, it’s important to respect the privacy and boundaries of others when engaging in naturism on boats, and to seek out like-minded individuals and groups who share your values and interests.

In conclusion, naturism on boats can offer a range of benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing. From promoting body positivity and self-acceptance to fostering a sense of community and adventure, naturism on boats can be a transformative experience that promotes relaxation, mindfulness, and a sense of calm. So whether you’re a seasoned naturist or just curious about exploring a clothing-optional lifestyle, consider giving naturism on boats a try and experience the joy and wellbeing benefits for yourself.

Let us know in the comments your thoughts about naturism in general. Are you a naturist? Are you against it? Be interested to hear your thoughts.

Next week: “Sailing the World on a Budget: How to Fund and Live a Nomadic Sailing Lifestyle”

Fair winds and calm seas
Carl and Jenny

If you enjoyed this blog post please check out our Freebies page where you can download other guides, and if you’re feeling really good consider having a look at our Support us page.

Preparing for a Summer Sail: Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey

On May 13, 2023 by carlandjenny With 0 Comments - Day to Day

Ahoy, sailors! 🌊⛵️
In today’s Patron only D-Log video, we’re going to help you prepare for your summer sailing adventures! We’ll cover essential tips, tricks, and safety measures to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience out on the open water.


In this video, we’ll discuss:

  1. Essential gear and equipment you’ll need for your sailing trip 🎒⚓️
  2. How to plan your route and navigate safely 🗺️🧭
  3. Weather considerations and how to stay informed about changing conditions 🌦️🌩️
  4. Tips for maintaining your sailboat and keeping it in top shape 🛠️🧹
  5. Important safety measures and emergency procedures to keep you and your crew safe 🚨🆘

If you’d like to watch this and over 200 other Patron only videos head over to our Patron channel at Patreon.com/carlandjenny from less than the cost of a cup of coffee per month. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more sailing tips and adventures! Hit the notification bell 🔔 to stay updated on our latest content. Let’s set sail and make this summer one to remember! ⛵️🌞🌴

The Ultimate Guide to Antifouling Your Boat: Protect, Preserve, and Perform

On May 3, 2023 by carlandjenny With 0 Comments - Day to Day

Welcome to our short but comprehensive guide on antifouling your boat! In this post, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to protect your vessel from the damaging effects of marine growth, preserve its performance, and ensure a smooth sailing experience.

Antifouling is a crucial maintenance task for any boat owner, as it prevents the buildup of algae, barnacles, and other marine organisms on the hull. These unwanted guests can cause drag, reduce fuel efficiency, and even damage the boat’s structure if left unchecked. By applying an antifouling paint, you create a barrier that deters these organisms from attaching to your boat, keeping it in top condition.

Before we dive into the antifouling process, it’s important to understand the different types of antifouling paints available. There are two main categories: hard and soft. Hard antifouling paints are durable and long-lasting, making them ideal for boats that are frequently used or travel at high speeds. Soft antifouling paints, on the other hand, are self-polishing and gradually wear away as the boat moves through the water, releasing biocides to prevent fouling. This type is best suited for boats with lower usage or slower speeds. Just for information purposes we use International Ultra 300.

Now, let’s get started with the antifouling process:

1. Preparation: Begin by removing your boat from the water and placing it on a secure, dry surface. Thoroughly clean the hull, removing any existing marine growth and old antifouling paint. This can be done using a scraper, sandpaper, or a pressure washer. Be careful when pressure washing, it is very easy to remove too much paint and leave yourself with a big job rubbing down! This time around we applied epoxy primer, epoxy filler, to get rid of any imperfections where the jet wash took off uneven amounts of paint,  Pimercon and then the antifoul paint. 

2. Priming: Once the hull is clean and dry, apply a suitable primer to ensure proper adhesion of the antifouling paint. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific primer you choose.

3. Application: Select the appropriate antifouling paint for your boat and apply it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This typically involves applying multiple coats, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.

4. Drying and Launching: Allow the final coat of antifouling paint to dry completely before returning your boat to the water. The drying time will vary depending on the paint and environmental conditions, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a protected, high-performing boat that continues

to be ready to conquer the open waters. Regular antifouling maintenance not only ensures a smooth and efficient sailing experience but also extends the lifespan of your vessel, making it a worthwhile investment for any boat owner.

Let’s now discuss some additional tips and tricks to make the antifouling process even more effective:

1. Choose the right paint: Consider your boat’s material, usage patterns, and local environmental conditions when selecting an antifouling paint. This will ensure optimal protection and performance.

2. Timing is key: Plan your antifouling maintenance during the off-season or when your boat is not in use. This allows ample time for the paint to dry and cure properly before hitting the water again.

3. Safety first: Always wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and a mask, when working with antifouling paints. These products contain chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. When rubbing down prior to painting we wear respirators and eye masks.

4. Stay eco-friendly: Opt for environmentally friendly antifouling paints whenever possible. These products are formulated with less harmful biocides and have a lower impact on marine life.

5. Monitor and maintain: Regularly inspect your boat’s hull for signs of fouling and address any issues promptly. This will help you stay ahead of potential problems and maintain optimal performance.

By following our ultimate guide to antifouling your boat, you’ll be well-equipped to protect your investment and enjoy a hassle-free boating experience. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more helpful tips and tricks on boat maintenance and care.

Happy sailing!

After rubbing down the hull!

We got to 5000 YouTube Subscribers

On December 13, 2020 by carlandjenny With 0 Comments - Day to Day, Filming

We got to 5000 YouTube Subscribers

We made it! We got to 5000 YouTube Subscribers!

We got to 5000 YouTube Subscribers

We are so pleased and happy this morning because we woke up to find that our subscriber count has reached 5000! We can’t believe we have come this far already.

This couldn’t have happened without you guys so a massive THANK YOU to each and every one of you for following our channel and clicking that subscribe button. It really does help our channel grow and the more views we get the more inclined we are to put out more content for you.

We have given our production side a big kick and are now putting together more content than we ever have done. 

Last month we put out 8 videos on our Patreon channel. So how does that work?

To reward our Patrons we publish, for Patron’s only, a series of regular videos.

Monday we have our D-Log episode. This is where we discuss what’s been happening in real time, we put out hints and tips and it’s a place where we open up a bit more. 

Wednesday we have our “Carl and Jenny Talk About” vodcast episode. This is a video version of our weekly podcast. In the podcast we talk about everything that influences our day to day living, not just sailing related. The podcast itself is available on all of the Podcast channels online in just audio format, but for Patrons only we do the video version.

Friday is when we post a regular episode that goes out on YouTube. The Patron version comes out a week earlier and is ad free during that time.

There are other rewards also available depending on what tier Patrons opt for.  Any funds we raise from our Patreon channel go directly back into our film making budget, it is not supporting our lifestyle.

So if you are wanting more content for the cost of a cup of coffee, or more if you prefer 😉 then pop over to our Patreon channel for more info by clicking on the image below.

Patreon

 

Fair winds,
Carl and Jenny

If you enjoyed this blog post please check out our Freebies page where you can download other guides, and if you’re feeling really good consider having a look at our Support us page.

Photography and Film equipment we use on board.

On December 9, 2020 by carlandjenny With 0 Comments - C&J Extras, Day to Day, Filming, Podcast

Photography and Filming gear we use on board

As YouTubers we need a fair amount of filming and photography equipment. We thought we would write a blog post explaining the Photography and Filming gear we use on board of Dream.

The equipment we use is what we have built up over a period of time. We were fortunate that we ran a wedding photography and film company and so had a massive amount of equipment. So much so that we had to sell quite a lot of equipment before we moved aboard as we just didn’t have room to store it all, along with the fact that we didn’t need it all any more.

We are not going to make this blog post too technical as it would go on forever. This is just to give you an idea of what we use to bring you the videos we put out.

So, lets break it up into different pieces of kit:

Filming and Photography

Panasonic Lumix GH5

This is our main camera. This camera is a micro four thirds camera, good for still photography, but  a fantastic camera for film use. It’s not too heavy so its comfortable for long shoots, has all the ‘Pro’ features you need. It films in 4K which is now the standard and has more features than most people would ever need. Combined with some ‘fast’ lenses this camera takes some beating. We have pre-sets on ours that can even film in slow motion to a good standard.

Canon G7X mk2

The canon G7X is a compact camera which is easy to carry around, is self contained and comes in a small package. It has a built in lens which has a built in zoom. The great thing about this camera is that it has a screen that can be flipped up so if you are using it in selfie mode you can see what you are recording. We tend to use this camera when we are out and about. The battery life is good and can last for a full day (not continuous). This model only records in High Definition 1080, the new model records in 4K so we may have to update at some point in the future.

GoPro Hero 6 Black

The GoPro is the action camera we use. We have had this one a couple of years now which we bought to upgrade our older model, the Hero 3 Black. The battery life on the 6 is so much better. The Hero 6 Black is waterproof without having to use a special case so is ideal for boat life. Small enough to keep in your pocket and can be ready almost instantly to use. Downside is lowlight filming is a bit noisy, but the capabilities of where you can film with this camera is endless. It’s also voice activated, so you can fit it in a position where you don’t need to reach it, give it a voice command and you can film or take pictures without having to touch it.

Panasonic LUMIX DMC – FT3

This is another waterproof HD camera. No moving parts, slimline and also has a built in GPS. We don’t use the GPS. For quick, instant filming/photos, this is ideal.

DJI Osmo Pocket

This is a new addition to our kit list. The DJI Osmo Pocket is a 4K gimballed camera that gives excellent stabilisation. Just what you need in rough seas lol! We haven’t used this yet in any of our videos but we are looking forward to using it soon.

DJI Mavic Pro Drone

The Mavic Pro is a great Drone with some great features. We don’t use it as much as we should do and promise that next season we will be using it a lot more.

Audio

Sometimes we use external audio recording. if we have a noisy background or are further away from the camera then an external recorder and microphone is how we get around it. The other option we have is to use an external microphone on top of the LUMIX GH5.

Wireless Lavalier Microphones and receiver

The wireless mics are a great addition to the kit. We can wear these when out and about. You don’t need to be right next to the camera, you can be 100 metres away. These ensure that you capture the sound you want. You do need to connect the receiver to your camera or a seperate audio recorder, and then sync in post.

Zoom H6 Audio Recorder

The Zoom H6 is a portable recording studio you can carry anywhere. It has built in microphones and several inputs for extra microphones, headphones or even musical instruments. It records in MP3 and wav files. The sound quality is excellent. We can use this as a standalone recorder or connect it to our computer and use it as an audio interface when recording podcasts or producing music. A great piece of kit and offers that bit more than the older H4we have.

Zoom H4 Audio Recorder

Much like the H6, the Zoom H4 is a portable recording studio you can carry anywhere. It has built in microphones and several inputs for extra microphones, headphones or even musical instruments. It records in MP3 and wav files. The sound quality is excellent. This is our older version, it still does a good job but the H6 offers a bit more.

Zoom H1 Audio Recorder

The Zoom H1 is a portable recorder. It is a one button record system. Again built in mics and a headphone socket so you can monitor your recording and a jack plug where you can plug in an external mic. This one is really small so will fit in any pocket and is easy to hide from view.

Rode Smart Lavalier Microphone.

This microphone has great audio qualities. It’s very small so you don’t even know you are wearing it. It is designed to be used with the Rode recording App on an iPhone. To use it with the Zoom or other recorders you need to purchase the small adapter plug by Rode. The iPhone has 5 terminals on a jack plug and the recorders only need 4. The adapter converts it from 5 to 4 so it works correctly.

Rode VideoMic pro

This fits to the hot shoe of the GH5 camera. It requires a 9Volt battery. It plugs into the microphone socket on the camera. The downside to this mic is if you forget to switch it on, or the battery runs out you don’t get any audio recorded.

Rode Micro

Similar to the Video mic pro but does not require any power. This is ideal because you don’t have to worry about batteries or losing audio. The quality is quite good, it’s also a small convenient size and it has a ‘Dead cat’ to cut down on wind noise.

Editing

MacBook Pro

We have used different editing software packages. Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro X.  Now we use Mac computers and Final Cut pro X for all of our editing now.

One of the reasons we no longer use Adobe as they moved over to a subscription only package.

Hard Drives

We also require Hard drives for storing all the footage we record onto. The ones we use mainly for storage and editing now are the LaCie Rugged hard drives. These are shock proof and come in a nice rubber protected case.

We have quite a bit more equipment than this, extra camera bodies, desk mics, lights etc etc. Not to mention all the spare batteries, memory cards, mounts, tripods, monopods. The list goes on.

If you enjoy watching our videos and would like to help support the production of them you can become a Patron by clicking on this LINK. as a Patron you get access to lots of extra videos and other perks depending on what tier you join. There is a tier for everyone.

If you click on any of the links of the equipment we have featured and order anything from Amazon, we get a small commission from amazon at no extra cost to you. It just puts a few coppers into our Amazon affiliate account, which we use to upgrade and replace the equipment we use for filming. If you have any questions about any of the kit we use please comment below and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

Fair winds,
Carl and Jenny

If you enjoyed this blog post please check out our Freebies page where you can download other guides, and if you’re feeling really good consider having a look at our Support us page.

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Cruising life starts again this week

On August 17, 2020 by carlandjenny With 2 Comments - Day to Day

Cruising life starts again this week

Sailing in Greece

Cruising life starts again this week

At last cruising life starts again this week on SV Dream.

Last month Jen flew back to England to help our daughter move into her new home. We agreed for me to stay here to get a few jobs done on the boat. Our daughter was supposed to have got the keys to the house a couple of days before Jen was arriving, unfortunately there was a delay so no work was being done.

As a surprise, I booked a flight for the following Saturday and turned up unannounced to the delight of everyone. It was a good job because there was so much work that needed doing to the house in addition to painting.

My job’s included, plastering a wall, fitting wall tiles in the kitchen, floor tiles in the bathroom, replacing light fittings and plug sockets and a few other jobs that they wouldn’t have been able to do. We enjoyed our time and even got chance to take a couple of two night breaks away in our camper van.

Back in Crete

So we are now back on the boat and getting ready to set off this week. Looking at the weather window it looks like Thursday morning will be the day to leave the marina. We are still getting the force of the Meltemi winds which are anywhere between 20-38 knots even in the marina. Our plan is to sail to an anchorage a couple of hours away for the shakedown sail, spend a few days there, clean the bottom of the boat and then set off after the weekend for the Dodecanes or Cyclades depending on the most favourable wind direction. If you wonder what weather forecasting software we use here are the 3 main ones, Predict wind Windytv.com windy.app

We are really looking forward to getting back out there on the sea. It seems like a lifetime ago since we were coming back to Crete for the winter, but then again it was 10 months ago! At least we can get out this year. We had written any chance of cruising off this year because of the pandemic, let’s all hope that it will soon pass and things get back to normal.

I saw this quote recently and thought it fit our lifestyle and that  I would share it.

Quote

“Can you believe that 5 years ago, I used to wear suits everyday!? It’s pretty funny, because now I have a hard time getter over having to wear shoes! It’s interesting how you connect with your environment and nature when you get to see, live it and eat it.

Life is not about how busy you are, it’s all about the intense moments, real friendship, love, skinny dipping and the crazy stories you get to take away when you’re old.”

Fair winds,
Carl and Jenny

If you enjoyed this blog post please check out our Freebies page where you can download other guides, and if you’re feeling really good consider having a look at our Support us page.

Realities of YouTube Production

On November 26, 2019 by carlandjenny With 2 Comments - C&J Extras, Day to Day

The truth behind the myth

Sell up, buy a boat, set sail and set up a YouTube channel. Never work again! In this blog post we give you the truth behind the myth.
In the last couple of years sailing channels have flooded the market on YouTube. Probably one of the reasons is that a handful of channels got on the bandwagon really early and got a lot of followers who have remained loyal to them and as a result they make a good living from it. The problem now is that everyone thinks that if they buy a boat and start a YouTube channel they can give up their jobs set sail and they’ll never have to work again! What they don’t realise is that the channels who are making money from YouTube and Patreon are working  as full time video producers. Not quite the retirement they are expecting. Editing footage that you have recorded, exporting it, uploading to YouTube, adding text, custom thumbnails etc all takes time, at least 8-16 hrs for a fairly short video.

For people who just want to watch sailing videos, life experiences and adventures then the market is flooded. Some really good productions and some not so good productions. There is something for everyone out there. Unfortunately for the video creators, getting noticed now is getting harder and harder due to the number of creators there are.

Whilst we love creating videos for YouTube it is not a cheap hobby. Yes we do get a small income from Patreon which helps with the costs a little but it doesn’t pay a wage. A lot of people are under the misconception that because adverts are part of YouTube playbacks then the creators must be making lots of money. In reality unless you are getting 100’000’s of views per video then we are looking at cents/pence per thousand views. Hardly worth it because YouTube take their 50% of anything you make. Hence the reason a lot of people now offer a Patreon page.

On our Patreon page we post our normal episodes earlier than they are released on YouTube, but we also produce our Patron only video series which we call our D-Log. There are currently around 40 D-Log videos on our Patron page at the moment. We also offer other perks depending on what tier our Patrons decide to join. All the funds we raise through our Patreon page goes back into video creation, whether it’s updating or replacing equipment or being put towards our ever increasing internet costs.

If you enjoy watching our videos and would like to help support the production of them you can become a Patron by clicking on this LINK. as a Patron you get access to lots of extra videos and other perks depending on what tier you join. There is a tier for everyone.

Fair winds,
Carl and Jenny

If you enjoyed this blog post please check out our Freebies page where you can download other guides, and if you’re feeling really good consider having a look at our Support us page.

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DEPKA renewal

On November 12, 2019 by carlandjenny With 3 Comments - C&J Extras, Day to Day

Renewing our DEPKA

It’s time for our yearly DEPKA renewal!

One of the things an EU registered boat requires when sailing in Greek waters is a DEPKA. This is basically to show you have registered with the Greek authorities that your boat is in Greek waters. It is renewable every 12 months. The renewing is free. 

Ours was due to be renewed on the 13th November, but as I had a spare hour this morning, I decided to go and get it done today. Jenny was busy doing her keep fit exercises with some of the other liveaboards in the marina, so what better time?

Docs for DEPKA

The process

It’s quite a simple process. A trip down to the Port Police office (Coastguard) with the correct documents. It’s then just a formality of them photocopying your documents and stamping the DEPKA with a new date 12 months from now. I had to show the original DEPKA, TEPAI tax payment form (even though that expired at the end of October), the receipt for our SSR (small ships register certificate). We had to surrender ours to register the boat out of use over winter, otherwise we would  have to pay the TEPAI for each month. My ICC and passport.

They will check and photocopy all of the documents. Once done they stamp your DEPKA and put a new expiry date which will be 12 months from the day they stamp it.

DEPKA stamped

All in all it took around 10 minutes to get our DEPKA renewal and now we are good for the next 12 months in Greek waters. That is of course when we set off again at the beginning of the season and pay our TEPAI tax for the months we are in Greece. 

DEPKA Renewed

All sorted!

If you enjoyed this blog post please check out our Freebies page where you can download other guides.  If you’re feeling really good consider having a look at our Support us page.

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