Finally all people are on board, JABULO is fully stocked and off we go. Usually the first few miles we will be motoring until we reach open waters. Then the big moment comes, the bow is turned into the wind, the sails are hoisted and the Diesel engines are turned off. Around us is silence. The only things we hear is the swoosh of the sea along the hulls, occasional rattle from the rigg and maybe some flapping of the sails. After a few hours our minds also come to rest, this is what sailing is all about. And really, most sailing trips are as peaceful as that. Winds above force 4 are very rare, up to force 5 a catamaran like JABULO will move only very lightly. With todays fairly reliable weather forecasts, a bit of patience and careful route planning bad weather and storms can be almost completely avoided.

Once underway a kind of ship’s routine establishes itself. The common meals quickly turn into the pace maker for all activities. On longer voyages, of course, there will be a real watch schedule of which there are as many as there are skippers. Depending on number and experience of the crew, traffic density in the area, weather and water depth shifts may vary widely. Even on short day cruises the skipper cannot permanently be at the helm. All crew members should be able to steer and therefore will get a crash course in the basics of navigation, sail handling, and manouevers under sail and motor. After only a few days the crew will work together as a well-trained team. Now everybody can really relax and enjoy travelling on a sail-boat.

A wonderful day on board: It is early in the morning, JABULO is laying at anchor in total silence, the sun is rising on the Eastern horizon. I jump over board for a morning wake-up swim. When I come back the smell of freshly brewed coffee made by another early riser welcomes me on board. We hoist the anchor and set sails, while others prepare the days first meal. During breakfast JABULO smoothly sails along by herself, we have all the time of the world to make our plans for the day. Shall we go anchoring in another bay tonight?? Or should we visit this small marina with the famous lobster restaurant?? Then it’s time for reading, writing the log book, SUDOKU, music listening. Around noon some volunteer surprises the crew with a snack. In the afternoon the wind turns against us, we have to tack a few times. The marina is getting out of reach. On the late afternoon it is time for a sundowner, we sail into the next bay and set the anchor. Instead of lobster we eat a home-made dinner while watching one of these unforgettable sunsets you only find at sea.