Sailing

• Piracy

  When ever there is talk of living on sailboats, that talk inevitably turns to pirates.

  While it is scary, and there is no denying that piracy exists, the simple fact is that it is blown out of proportion. Why do we hear about it around the globe when pirates strike? Because it is so rare an event that it is newsworthy.

  Compare that to school shootings in the USA. How many did you hear about in the news? If you had to guess, how many would you say there have been this year?

• Post-Apocalyptic Songs

  I have created two new post-apocalyptic songs, and made music videos for them. You can watch them both below.

  The first song, "Sailing to Tomorrow", is about a bug-out after some disaster. In the music video, there's a short news clip about zombies, but in the song itself the scenario is nondescript.

  The second song is "Sail Away (Zombies Can't Swim)", and is specifically about a zombie apocalypse. Personally, I think zombies are stupid, but I know they are a popular topic.

• Prepping for Climate Change: Adjusting Your Bug-Out Sailboat for Different Conditions

  In an era marked by unpredictable climate patterns and an increasing sense of urgency surrounding environmental changes, prepping for survival has taken on new dimensions. For many preppers, the conventional bug-out plan may not be sufficient, leading to alternative strategies. One such strategy gaining traction is the use of live-aboard sailboats as bug-out boats. In this article, we will delve into the key considerations for adjusting your bug-out sailboat to navigate the challenges posed by various climate conditions.

  The Versatility of Bug-Out Sailboats

  Live-aboard sailboats offer a unique advantage for preppers seeking refuge from climate-related threats. Unlike static bug-out locations, sailboats provide mobility, enabling preppers to navigate changing conditions and find safer havens. Whether facing extreme temperatures, rising sea levels, or other environmental challenges, a well-equipped sailboat can be a crucial asset in a prepper's toolkit.

  Adapting to Rising Sea Levels

• Pros & Cons of a Bug-Out Boat

   

  Having a bug-out boat is similar to a bug-out vehicle or a bug-out location, but combines the best of both.

  PROS:

  • you can escape any disaster area, even when governments want to stop travel. Police/military can close roads, you can't close the ocean.
  • gathering food is simple. Anyone can fish, while hunting/trapping takes skill
  • you can generate your own electricity and water
  • when travelling you take your house and all your supplies with you. And all your comforts too... if you have to leave your house are you going to take your Playstation & 50" TV? We've got ours!
  • being on the water is much safer than being on the land. 2021 saw 132 incidents of violent crime on all the oceans (ICC International Maritime Bureau). There were likely more violent crimes in your state every single day.
  • sailing is easy to learn. We taught ourselves with books and videos, but lessons are easy to find
  • you can start relatively inexpensively. If you can afford a house, you could have bought an ocean crossing boat
  • Sailboat Security: Protecting Your Vessel from Pirates and Looters

    Sailing the high seas is an adventure that many sailors relish. The sense of freedom, the beauty of the open water, and the thrill of exploration are some of the reasons why sailing is an enduring pastime. However, sailing also has its share of risks and dangers. Pirates and looters, for instance, can pose a significant threat to sailors and their vessels. This article aims to provide practical tips and advice on how sailors can protect themselves from piracy and looting while sailing. The thesis of this article is that sailboat security measures can be implemented to protect against piracy and looting. The article will begin with an overview of the potential dangers of piracy and looting and then discuss the various security measures that sailors can take to protect their vessels.

    Understanding the Risks and Threats

    Types of piracy and looting:Pirates and looters can use various tactics to attack vessels. Armed robbery is a common tactic where pirates use guns or other weapons to threaten sailors and loot their vessels. Theft is another tactic where pirates steal valuable items such as electronics, cash, and jewellery. Vandalism is also a common tactic where pirates destroy or damage the vessel. Kidnapping is a rare but possible tactic where pirates abduct sailors for ransom or other purposes.

  • Sailing eBooks

    We have found some of the best eBooks on sailing with links to their torrents.

    Marine - Sailing eBooks (37): Get This Torrent

    Click to open File List

    Marine - Food & Cooking eBooks (13): Get This Torrent

    Click to open File List

  • Sailing to Freedom: How One Family Built Their Dream Boat and Set Sail to Live Life on Their Own Terms

    150 to 200 years ago, American pioneers envisioned a life of liberty and the prospect of catching their initial view of the Pacific Ocean. While some were enticed by the allure of mountains and new frontiers, others found the sense of liberation in the journey itself, traversing unfamiliar territories on horseback during the day and bedding down under the vast sky at night. For them, freedom meant constantly moving forward.

    Our own quest for freedom started after growing up in Toronto.  We had already "gone west" to live in Northern Ontario and build our farm, living as self-sustaining a life as we could. But we weren’t free. Tied to our land, we struggled under burdensome government regulations and taxes, and the realization that we would be unable to protect or defend it all should society collapse.

    We dreamt of our future. It would be a better life, one in which we would be truly independent and self-sufficient, answering to no one. 

    We would go to sea!

  • Sailing to Safety: How to Escape Urban Areas in a Crisis

    Urban areas can be bustling centers of activity, but they can also be dangerous during crises. Natural disasters, civil unrest, terrorism, pandemics, and other crises can quickly turn urban areas into hazardous environments. In such situations, finding a means of escape can be challenging. Sailing can be an effective and safe means of escaping urban areas in a crisis. This article will explore how sailing can be used as a means of escape during a crisis, and provide guidance on how to prepare for and undertake such a journey.

    Understanding Urban Crisis Scenarios and Risks

    Urban areas can be subject to various types of crises, including natural disasters and man-made disasters. Natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and hurricanes can occur without warning, while man-made disasters such as civil unrest, terrorism, and pandemics can develop over time. Identifying and evaluating the risks associated with each crisis is essential in determining the severity and urgency of the situation.

  • Seaweed: The Ultimate Survival Superfood for Nuclear Winter

    Could seaweed help us survive a nuclear winter? A new study says yes.

    In an era fraught with geopolitical tensions and environmental uncertainty, the prospect of nuclear conflict looms as a persistent threat. As preppers and survivalists seek refuge from potential cataclysms, one often-overlooked resource emerges as a beacon of hope: seaweed. Recent research published in Earth's Future highlights the remarkable resilience and nutritional richness of seaweed, positioning it as a crucial component of survival strategies in the face of nuclear winter.

    The Study: Seaweed's Resilience and Food Potential

    The study, conducted by researchers and published earlier this month, underscores seaweed's capacity to withstand the harsh conditions of nuclear winter. Drawing upon simulations and models, scientists found that seaweed not only survives but thrives in environments characterized by reduced sunlight and altered climate patterns. This resilience, coupled with its rapid growth and nutritional value, marks seaweed as a promising food source in post-apocalyptic scenarios.

    Surviving Nuclear Winter with Seaweed

    Imagine a world plunged into darkness, with temperatures plummeting and traditional food sources dwindling. In such dire circumstances, survivors of nuclear conflict may find solace in the abundance of seaweed lining coastal waters. Unlike conventional crops that falter in the absence of sunlight, seaweed's ability to photosynthesize efficiently under varying light conditions ensures a stable food supply even in the bleakest of environments.

    Harvesting Seaweed: A Practical Solution for Preppers

    For those contemplating survival strategies, the simplicity of harvesting seaweed presents an attractive proposition. Live-aboard sailboats, often touted as bug-out vessels for navigating post-apocalyptic landscapes, offer an ideal platform for seaweed cultivation. With minimal equipment and expertise required, preppers can cultivate and harvest seaweed directly from the ocean, supplementing their provisions with this nutrient-rich superfood.

    The Global Impact of Seaweed Farming

    Beyond individual survival scenarios, seaweed farming holds immense potential for addressing broader issues of global food security. The study suggests that within a relatively short timeframe of nine to 14 months, seaweed cultivation could make a significant contribution to meeting the world's nutritional needs. This aligns with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations' recognition of seaweed as a valuable addition to the global food supply chain.

    Seaweed: Nutrient-Rich and Sustainable

    What makes seaweed such a formidable contender in the realm of survival foods? The answer lies in its nutritional richness and sustainable cultivation practices. Seaweed boasts an impressive array of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, iodine, potassium, and selenium, making it a powerhouse of essential nutrients. Furthermore, seaweed cultivation requires minimal inputs and does not contribute to land degradation or deforestation, aligning with principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

    Seaweed's Versatility Across Industries

    While seaweed's potential as a food source garners significant attention, its versatility extends far beyond the realm of nutrition. Across industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics, seaweed finds myriad applications, further bolstering its appeal as a multipurpose resource. Whether utilized in skincare products, pharmaceutical formulations, or animal feed supplements, seaweed offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional ingredients.

    Understanding Seaweed Growth Dynamics

    To fully harness seaweed's potential in survival scenarios, it's essential to grasp the intricacies of its growth dynamics, particularly in the context of nuclear winter. Contrary to expectations, seaweed exhibits accelerated growth rates under conditions of heightened environmental stress, peaking within the initial years of cultivation. This phenomenon, attributed to enhanced nutrient availability resulting from disruptions in oceanic circulation patterns, underscores seaweed's adaptability to fluctuating conditions.

    Investing in Seaweed Farming Infrastructure

    As the specter of nuclear conflict looms ever larger, proactive measures must be taken to prepare for the worst-case scenario. Investing in seaweed farming infrastructure represents a proactive step towards enhancing global resilience and mitigating the potential impacts of nuclear winter-induced food shortages. By cultivating seaweed on a large scale, communities can bolster their food security and reduce reliance on conventional agricultural practices vulnerable to environmental disruption.

    Conclusion: Embracing Seaweed as a Survival Solution

    In the face of unprecedented challenges posed by nuclear conflict and environmental instability, seaweed emerges as a beacon of hope for survivalists and preppers alike. Its resilience, nutritional richness, and versatility position it as a formidable ally in the quest for sustainable living amidst adversity. By harnessing the potential of seaweed farming, humanity can fortify its resilience and ensure a brighter, more sustainable future in the wake of nuclear winter.

  • Self-sustainable farming on a sailboat

    Found a great article about a sailor who grows their own food onboard.

    Three hulls, one planet: Neel 51 owner explains how he went self-sustainable (opens in a new window)

    As an experienced live-aboard cruiser, I disagree with a few points in his article. A few examples:

    • He states "Desalination puts brine back into the sea, which contributes to the eutrophication of the marine environment". First off, evaporation from the ocean surface removes much more water than a sailboat would. Second, the water you take from your watermaker will all end up going back into the ocean, thereby diluting the salt content back to normal. I also have rain catchers on our boat, but while Wolf uses them as his primary source, and watermaker as secondary, we use the watermaker as primary and raincatchers as secondary.
    • Re-using grey water is needed if you are relying on rain catching. While I am not opposed to having a grey-water system, we found it was easier just to use potable water for everything. The amount of waste from a single boat is minimal, and the ocean naturally bio-degrades it.
      Our reliance on potable water may partly be because we have excess electrical power, and so can "waste" the energy to use our watermaker as we please. Wolf has 3kw of solar and a 10kwh battery bank, compared to our 4.5kw solar and 29kwh battery bank.

    Generally, however, he has some great ideas, and it's good to see other people making the switch to a cruising lifestyle. Definitely worth the read.

  • Service Schedule

    You may know from the blog article 'Boat Like An Airline Pilot: Checklists Prevent Human Errors', that I like lists. They make life so much simpler. It's so easy to forget things when you are going by memory, but a simple checklist makes skipping or forgetting steps much more difficult.

    The same goes with cleaning and servicing.

    Here is the service schedule for our previous catamaran. Our current catamaran with its electric motors is considerably different. You can adjust this to suit your sailboat, car, house, or airplane.

  • Solar Power on a Bug-Out Sailboat

    For those who enjoy extended cruising vacations, a bug-out sailboat provides the perfect mix of a relaxing vacation with the security of being prepared for any disaster. The combination of open skies, wind, and solar power makes a bug-out sailboat an ideal vehicle for living off the grid and surviving in a disaster situation.

    If you are a sailor, then you know there are many uses for a boat in a bug-out scenario. Sailboats are self-sustainable, providing navigation, shelter, and food for a family riding out a disaster. A sailboat is able to travel farther and faster than most cars, and can provide an escape and refuge if necessary.

    When it comes to living off the grid on a sailboat, solar power is a major advantage. A reasonable amount of photovoltaic cells can be used to charge the battery bank on board, as well as power electric motors and lights. Solar power can also provide relief from the load of an internal combustion engine, as well as providing power for electronic navigation aids that are essential in a bug-out situation.

  • Surviving Storms at Sea: Tips for Sailing in Bad Weather

    Sailing can be a serene and enjoyable experience, but it can quickly turn dangerous when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Storms at sea are one of the most significant threats to sailors, with high winds, rough seas, lightning, and flooding all posing significant risks. Surviving storms at sea requires preparation, knowledge, and quick thinking. In this article, we'll discuss tips for sailing in bad weather and how to increase your chances of making it through safely.

    Understanding the Risks of Storms at Sea

    The first step to preparing for storms at sea is to understand the types of storms that sailors can encounter. Thunderstorms, squalls, hurricanes, and nor'easters all present different challenges and hazards. Thunderstorms and squalls can be unpredictable and sudden, with high winds and lightning strikes that can damage or capsize sailboats. Hurricanes and nor'easters are more prolonged and severe, with strong winds and large waves that can cause catastrophic damage to vessels and endanger sailors' lives.

  • Surviving World War Three at Sea

    Guest article by Patrick Bryant

    Given the current level of international tensions, it seems germane to write the following guide for my fellow sailors. This is a dark topic, and any optimism I express about surviving the situation goes against conventional wisdom. I am in no way attempting to diminish the horror and severity, but only hope that this guide will be printed out and stowed away aboard somewhere where it will never, ever be needed.

    I have taken a lifelong interest in radiological defense and survival. I was licensed long ago as a radiological monitor by the old Office of Civil Defense at the age of 13. I have studied the topic thoroughly in the intervening 50 years. I hold the patent (US patent 4,103.235) on the audio tone that is sent by US broadcast stations during Emergency Alert System tests and warnings. I am also a Coast Guard licensed master (near coastal).

    This is intended to be a BRIEF description, in layman’s terms, of radiological defense and survival at sea. Much is left out of this narrative in the interest of brevity, and the reader is encouraged to study the topic in greater detail. If the time should ever arise that you have a critical need for this information, I presume you will want tactics that are succinct and contain a minimum of academic information. Armed with any information at all, you will be better prepared than the vast majority of Americans, who have received no instruction on the topic. I have read the prepared scripts that will be broadcast in the event of any attack, and the only information you will receive from official broadcasts is: “fallout is a byproduct of a nuclear explosion.” That’s all – nothing more. The vast majority of casualties will not be caused by the explosions but instead by the radioactive fallout that follows. Our government simply expects us to die, while they hide away in the hundred or so bunkers provided only for them.

  • The Best Bug-Out Sailboat Routes for Escaping Disaster

    When it comes to escaping a disaster, having a plan is crucial. While some people may opt for land-based evacuation routes, others prefer to take to the sea. A bug-out sailboat can provide a versatile and reliable means of escaping disaster zones. In this article, we will explore the best bug-out sailboat routes for escaping disaster scenarios.

    Understanding Disaster Scenarios and Risks

    Before we can choose the best bug-out sailboat routes, we must first understand the types of disasters that may require such action. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and floods can quickly turn a once-safe area into a danger zone. Man-made disasters such as wars, political unrest, pandemics, and terrorist attacks can also pose significant risks to personal safety.

    It is essential to identify and evaluate potential risks and their likelihood of occurrence. Understanding the severity of potential disasters can help us plan and prepare accordingly. For example, areas prone to hurricanes may require a more robust sailboat and a route that avoids potential storm paths.

  • The Ultimate Guide to Bug-Out Vehicle Types

    Why People Bug Out: Understanding the Need for Emergency Evacuation

    In recent years, the concept of "bugging out" has gained popularity in the emergency preparedness community. But what does it mean to "bug out" and why do people feel the need to do it? In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind bug out strategies and their importance in emergency situations.

    What is "bugging out"?

    Firstly, let's define what it means to "bug out". In simple terms, it is the act of leaving your home or current location in response to a perceived threat or danger. This could be a natural disaster, civil unrest, or any other situation that requires quick evacuation. It can also refer to leaving a densely populated area and moving to a safer location, such as a rural area or a designated emergency shelter.

  • Top 10 Favourite Kitchen Items for Cruisers

    A few things of note:

    • We have a pretty large solar array with lithium batteries. This means we can run some electrical appliances that others may not be able to, depending on the setup.
    • Our boat, a 15m catamaran, is roomier than some, which provides more space for storing bulkier appliances.
    • We do not monetize our page and we do not earn any money from the links below. I included them merely for reference. Anything you see on our pages comes from us sharing our experiences only.

    Now, without further ado...

  • What are the benefits of having a sailboat when there's a disaster?

    Having a sailboat during a disaster can offer several benefits for individuals and communities affected by a crisis. Here are some of the main advantages of having a sailboat during a disaster:

    1. Mobility: In a disaster situation, mobility and flexibility is often critical for reaching safety or providing assistance to others. A disaster area may be inaccessible to cars or trucks, such as flooded streets, damaged roads, or areas with limited infrastructure. A sailboat is not dependent on roads or other infrastructure, which can be damaged or blocked during a disaster. Having a mobile and flexible form of transportation, such as a sailboat, can allow you to bypass these obstacles and reach your destination more quickly and safely. It can navigate through shallow waters, go around debris or other obstacles, and even sail upwind, allowing it to access areas that might be difficult or impossible to reach by other means. This can be particularly useful for evacuating individuals or transporting supplies to areas that are difficult to access.

       Mobility and flexibility are crucial because they allow you to adapt and respond to rapidly changing conditions, and provide options for evacuation, relocation, and access to resources.

    2. What Size Catamaran To Sail Around The World

       ‍What Sizes Are Catamarans?

       Catamarans come in all shapes and sizes, but the smallest models don't have the accommodations required to sail around the world. Most catamarans under 30 feet in length don't have a cabin at all, which is a stark difference that they have with monohulls.

       Small monohull sailboats often have cabins, as there's plenty of room below on a wide single-hulled sailboat. Monohulls can be as small as 16 to 18 feet and still have a cabin, but catamarans must be much larger to have suitable accommodations.

       The smallest catamarans are about 12 to 15 feet long. These are small recreational craft used primarily for racing, and they aren't designed for the open ocean. Larger catamarans in the 20-foot range can (and have) been used on the ocean, but they're usually classified as day boats.

       Catamarans become practical for longer excursions once they hit about 30 feet in length. A boat of this size is large enough for a cabin and can usually accommodate between two and four people comfortably. Catamarans commonly stretch beyond 50 feet, which is where they're the most useful and comfortable.

    3. Where you should head to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter, according to scientists

       The Doomsday Clock has moved the closest to global catastrophe it has ever been - largely because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and also the climate crisis. Now, a study finds five locations most likely to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter.

       If 2023 is the year the world starts to collapse, scientists think they know where you should head to survive.

       The Doomsday Clock has moved the closest to global catastrophe it has ever been - largely because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and also the climate crisis.

       Now, researchers say Australia and New Zealand are among five island nations most likely to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter.

       The study, by the University of Otago and Adapt Research in New Zealand, looked at the impact of "a severe sun-reducing catastrophe" such as a nuclear war, super volcano or asteroid strike on global agricultural systems.

       Researchers found Australia, New Zealand, Iceland, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu most capable of continuing to produce food despite the reduced sunlight and fall in temperatures - and help reboot a collapsed human civilisation.

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