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I thought of Cook, Magellan, Columbus, Drake - especially the
earlier explorers who didn't have a clue about longitude. As
noon sights became more comfortable to me, and I grasped the
concepts of shooting the stars at twilight, I found myself adding
to my confidence base by determining my location without the
aid of electronic devices.
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Combine these
transforming experiences with the bluest water on earth,
the friendliest indigenous people (particularly on the
Tuomotus), exotic atolls, a fascinating geological and
marine environment, and abundant seafood and I was ready
to drop the hook permanently, if only my wife were along.
I am transformed. I now have the re-solve and confidence
to go even further offshore for a longer period of time.
I found I didn't get seasick.
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And John paid the ultimate compliment to me when we were
nearing the end of our long passage: It was probably evident
that I was having the time of my life, and John looked
over at me and said, "I think the ocean agrees with you."
It did. It does. My wife and I have chartered alone together
in Turkey, in the Caribbean, and on the Bay with friends over
a dozen times. And although she'd never taken lessons, based
on my experiences in French Polynesia, I find that she's now
keen to gain more technical knowledge and theory through ASA
coursework. Who knows where it will lead us both.
The trip changed my life. And I'd en-courage others to check
out these courses, especially if you have a somewhat apprehensive
perspective on offshore sailing, as I did, yet are willing to
put yourself 'out on the edge' to learn more about yourself
and improve your sailing and seamanship skills. The confidence
gained is priceless.
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