TwentyEightFeet
You never know who you are going to meet at the beach...
I was walking the beach and a woman and her daughter approached me asking why I was climbing to the top of my mast earlier that day. After meeting the rest of the family, Mike, Traci, Danielle and Mikaela all became very close friends quite quickly. We enjoyed talking over the film “Captain Ron” which we all agreed was a family classic. They even got into the spirit the day we went sailing to Buck Island exchanging my large collection of bandanas and rubbing white Zinc on our noses. At the end of the day I became their very own Captain Ron and sailing as a team will never be forgotten. Shout out to my friends in Orange County, California. Thanks for being my friend!
December 25th 2012
Tyler Hill Camps Siegel Famly join us
from the Oasis of the Seas
10:45am, New York Time, Lindbergh Bay: We headed South out of Lindbergh Bay towards the open ocean with Skipper Maddie on the tiller, Joey acting as First Engineer and Dylan running the ropes and organizing the deckhands. Andy grabbed the Jib Halyard, raised the sails and instantly harnessed the wind. As we picked up speed Joey killed the engine and we plotted our course towards Whistling Cay taking charge of the winds sweeping off the mountains behind us.
12:30pm, Whistling Cay: Maddie, Joey and Dylan all spit in the lens of their goggles and wiped them clean with their bare fingers. Like professionals on TV they held their masks in one hand and plunged into the depths of the Caribbean Sea off the stern of Lizzy Belle. Snorkelling around in 20 feet of water over a magnificient coral reef we dove, we explored and we discovered the creatures in the depths below. The colours were unbelievable. Andy, it being his birthday and realizing he had become one year older on the day decided to challenge fate and stare one of the largest Baracuda Lizzy Belle has ever come across straight in the eyes. Obviously, that fish backed down and we were happily sailing within the hour.
1:30pm, Preserverance Cove - We dropped the hook 500 yards from
our completely deserted beach. Maddie and Dylan took turns driving the dingy to and from the beach delivering our cooler, drinks and the BBQ. Andy jumped on the
BBQ and grilled up some skewers of all types. The girls swam, laughed and ran the beach as we moved slowly into late afternoon.
4:30pm - Beachcomber Hotel: We made it safely back to the Beachcomber Hotel with plenty of time to get everyone back to the Oasisi of the Seas and happily on their way to St Marteen. It was Andy's birthday, a great day of sailing and a moment that will most definitely be remembered. Thanks again Siegel family for joining Lizzy Belle and I on our adventure and continuing to have a positive impact on our lives.
December 18th 2012
"It's amazing to think that we have known each other for ten years".
Andy Siegel
See you soon,
Dave Welsford
Captain/Division Leader
Tyler Hill Camp
Siegel Family Portrait, Lindbergh Bay
Joey, Maddie and Dylan snorkelling for the first time. March, 2012 - Oasis of the Seas vs Lizzy Belle
"It's amazing to think that we have known each other for ten years".
Andy Siegel
December 27th 2012
One thing about owning a sail boat...
Those who know me well might say that I’m always working on being more patient. One of the best ways to practice patience, is has been owning a sailboat. Lizzy Belle has by far been one of the most rewarding investments of my lifetime so far. And every time I fix one thing, there are four more chores to add to the list. After installing a brand new engine and getting ready to head out on my next journey I was quick to realize that reverse on the transmission was actually forward and of course the opposite. It was a task to remove the old propellor and try and figure out the measurements to order a new one. One thing was certain, It needed to be a right handed prop vs a left.
We ordered the brand new propellor from our home community. The boys at the Lunenburg Foundry reshaped her for me and my parents eagerly arrived the day after Christmas prop in hand. It took only 45 minutes to install the new propellor and is working seamlessly with our new engine. Lizzy Belle has become a rocket ship.
Now Heading 90 miles East to St Maarten.
September 13th, 2013
Directed by Kevin Fraser
As of today Kevin has submitted the film to multiple film festivals around the continent. The film has gained multiple sponsors from all over the country and of course any support you can offer will be much appreciated. The film has an Indiegogo account where products are being auctioned off and donations can be made:
Support the Cause:
Final Thoughts:
One of my favorite pastimes while cruising from island to island whether in the middle of the night, while watching the sunrise in the east or set in the west is reflecting back upon how far Lizzy Belle has come and how she has impacted others. After coming across her sitting on the hard cement in Bridgewater, NS almost four years aga until now the one thing that stands out in my mind the most is - how much support and love everyone has offered Lizzy Belle and I. Whether that support has came from sanding and painting her haul, to donations of dockage fees, or having friends and family sit down and go over charts and share their personal sailing experiences with me, the support is what is keeping us going. And now, Kevin has found a way to share what Lizzy Belle means in an entirely new univerasl way. Although Lizzy Belle maybe a sailboat in most peoples eyes, she is far more than that. She shapes relationships, builds bridges and most importantly - brings people together. Thank you Kevin for all you have done for us!
People always ask, "So what do you do again, sail around the Carribbean?" and what I hear most often is, "Well, why would you want to do that?" From there I believe many dream up the ideals that surround a five month vacation - sipping maragitas in a hawaian shirt while dangling my feet in the water. As much as I explain the concepts and challenges that drive the project I understand how difficult it must be to envision such an endeavor.
If you asked me 6 months ago while filming in the Caribbean what Kevin's final project or vision would look like? I couldnt even have guessed myself. I think more importantly if you asked me what the messages behind the film would be, I also couldn't have answered. That is the beauty of documentary filmmaking and creating works with such deep thought towards purpose. Kevin started with an idea, worked through it and now we get to truly understand the real beauty and messages behind the mystique Lizzy Belle.
I beleieve, Kevin Fraser, a long time friend and cinematographer recognized the potential Lizzy Belle and the impact the story could have on an audience - possibly long before even I had. For me, Lizzy Belle is an accumulation of challenges, sweat, blood and tears all amounting to meaningful, impactful experiences. Until now, it must have been really hard to comprehend... even for myself.
Twenty Eight Feet: Sample Clip
I'm always asked "why"... now even I have a clearer understanding. Twenty Eight Feet - Official Documentary.
November 16th, 2013
VIMEO REPORTS SAY OUR TWENTY EIGHT FEET TEASER HAS BEEN VIEWED IN 52 COUNTRIES
In two weeks time I am headed back to Lizzy Belle who has been patiently waiting for my return for over 7 months. Although she is currently dry docked her spirit continues to gain fame. Our Twenty Eight Feet trailer has gone global. Kevin mentioned just yesterday that Vimeo's Analytics ( online video hosting site ) have tracked views in 52 countries. I will say, we have not done it alone! Friends and family posted links on facebook, twiiter and other social media sites and we thank them for their efforts. Fran and Ron Himmelman ( and friends ) from The Mug and Anchor Pub hosted an an event to raise money to help submit the film to more festivals. Michele Stevens Sailloft has been sending out emails to clients and friends. Just recently, WOODEN BOAT MAGAZINE gave the film and Lizzy Belle's website a shout out on facebook and we have been receiving email feedback and congratulations from many latitudes and longitudes!
Enjoy the fim my friends and thank you again for your support!
November 16th, 2013
KEVIN & MEL ATTEND DOC NYC SCREENING OF TWENTY EIGHT FEET: Life on a little wooden boat
Kevin and Mel - Director and Producer of Twenty Eight Feet - spent the last weekend attending DOC NYC in the Big Apple. This documentary film festival is held in Lower Manhattan each year and has become the country's largest documentary festival - hosting over 130 films. Their mission statement includes: Curate: To guide audiences to inspiring work. Kevin mentioned, as he gave me the play by play of how the festival was going down via email, that this festival was, "a serious documentary film festival" and that it is exciting for us to be a part of it. Twenty Eight Feet: Life on a little wooden boat opened for a feature film; TINY: A story about living small which documents a couples journey building a home smaller than a parking space. Well suited for Lizzy Belle's adventure.
From my understanding through correspondence with Kevin is that the film was a success and the audience enjoyed the story. Kevin mentioned he had many compliments after the showing and that he valued his time attending the festival. I am happy that together, they had the chance to see their vision on a larger screen, in a humungous city. Good on ya guys!
December 30th, 2013
Boxing Day - BoXXer
Hello everyone! I must apologize as I have been offline for a while. So far the holidays have been fanastic here in Grenada. The day before Christmas I was hiding from the heat, sleeping the afternoon away and heard a knock on my hull. I popped my head out the campanionway to find the Captain (Scott ) from the boat beside us - BoXXer - and a crew member named Sarah. They came offering "welcome to the neighbourhood" gifts. Fresh Banana Bread! I honestly couldn't have asked for anything more! From there... it seems as though everything has played out quite well for Lizzy Belle. The next day they asked me to join them in Carriacou for Christmas Dinner. LB and I got up at the break of dawn heading up the east side of the Island and made a small 20 mile crossing. We had excellent wind with all sails up and were in Carriacou shortly after lunch. LB performed perfectly...
Over Christmas dinner Captain Scott, Sarah and a third crew member (Billy) discussed what Boxing Day would bring for the crew. We decided to take a cruise on BoXXer over to White Island which of course brought up stories of my parents roaming the beaches, hanging out at the Mermaid Tavern and falling in love at Camp Carriacou back when they were only 17.
The next day we sailed, snorkled and walked the pristine, untouched beaches at the southern end of Carriacou. We each took turns steering BoXXer, which is over 50 feet long and a spectacular boat to be helmsman.
All and all it has been an exciting holiday season and I couldn't have asked for better companionship. Unfortunately, shortly after Boxing Day I came down with a fever which has lasted until now. I went to the local Doctor yesterday and he seemed highly confident that I had come down with a Moderate case of Dengue Fever which is transmitted through mosquito bites - the little fellas bite your legs at the beach bar... :)
From here stay tuned, as I recover Lizzy Belle's plans are about to get even more interesting!
Sarah at the helm, Billy chilling and Captain Scott always paying attention to the elements!
Sarah had just sailed across the Atlantic Ocean... quite the accomplishment!
Scott is from Vancouver originally and has sailed all over the world.
Beautiful uninhabited White Island... My parents have told me many stories of late nights and romance in these parts.
Sarah and I had a mile long swim to White Island and back. Scott joined us most of the way and spotted a giant Manta Ray on the journey.
It was my moms birthday and it only seemed fit that we pick up a little piece of White Island for her... white sand from her all time favourite deserted beach!
And of course Lizzy Belle is looking and feeling like new!
January 2nd, 2014
TwentyEightFeet, meet Sarah Schelbert...
Ya know, it hasn't been too often in my travels that I have come across a conversation that went the way of the following...
Over casual beer I remember Sarah saying to me... "Sometimes I like to dress up and pretend I am a pirate, for fun!"... I'll tell ya, my jaw hit the floor!!!! My answer, "ME TOO"! Those of you who know me are grinning from ear to ear right now :)
It wasn't too long afterwards when Sarah and I both realized we should combine our imaginative spirits, adventurous natures, travel skills... and sail the Caribbean Seas ..with LB as our guide.
So what is the plan now? Sarah, Lizzy Belle and I are about to head out on a four day sail west to make landfall in Bonaire. We have spent the past few days planning the trip, provisioning LB, watching the weather and tides and are now ready to cast off. LB's feeling stronger than ever and as usual there is no doubt the journey will be rough at times... but together the three of us will get through it!
Much love friends and family and we will get in touch as soon as we enter safe harbour!
Sarah spent the day sailing from Prickley Bay to St George's manning the tiller and learning the ropes. Definitely killed it!
Spending a day on the water introducing LB and Sarah.
This special little troll has also jumped ship, maybe she will keep us safe!
There are pirates in the Caribbean afterall!
January 8th, 2014
73 Hours, Averaging 7 Knots = An Adventure to Remember...
When Sarah, Lizzy Belle and I sailed out of St George's, Grenada last Friday I wonder if either one of us truly knew what to expect. The plan was to head far North from Venezuela as we had heard there is unrest in the country and legit piratical activities are high. Once out there we would jibe once and head southwest back towards Bonaire.
We set out with light winds raising all four sails. Once Grenada was behind us the wind picked up and we were averaging 8 knots an hour. We were pretty happy with this as our sail plan ony required a 5 knot average to make Bonaire by the following Monday. As the sun went down we decided on a 2 hour shift. When I slept Sarah took the tiller and we would switch throughout the night. We found this timing was just enough to get rested before taking back the helm. The real only issue on the first night was whenever I was on the tiller it rained, making it tough for Sarah to sleep. Regardless of all the squals however crew morale was high.
When reflecting back on the journey I will say that moments at sea tend to blend togther in a watery blur. I think this is probably because although we were always busy, the tasks at hand are so similar it is hard to categorize them into certain times and dates. An average day on LB's sail to Bonaire looked as follows:
As the sun rose. We would ask simultaneously how each other was feeling. Jokingly we would talk about our day and what was on our "to do list". These lists always included small tasks like turning the running lights off, making breakfast or.... using the washroom off the stern...pretty predictable tasks throughout the sail. After the sunrise routine we quickly got back to work taking turns on the tiller.. doing our best to sleep in the hot sun, chatting about this and that and relaxing when our downtime allowed. Usually in the afternoon we would make a tray of cheese, crackers, dill pickles and fruit and enjoy scanning the open ocean for anything out of the ordinary. Our adventure provided sightings however of only a few sailboats, some container ships, various seabirds and lots of flying fish.
Finally, on the fourth day, as we approached Bonaire it was obvious we were happy to see land once again. We excitedly discussed all the great things we were going to do ashore - shower, drink a cold beer, wash our drenched clothing and call our parents to let them know all was well. We are still working on that list!
As of now we are spending our time in Bonaire taking care of small tasks including cleaning and drying everything on LB...and simply enjoying walking on solid, unmoving ground. In the next post I'll introduce Bonaire, her crystal clear waters and very friendly culture.
Much love to all and thank-you once again for your support and following the LB story. This journey was more than a sail west for us. This journey was an adventure of a lifetime. The thrill, challenge and mere experience of sailing through the middle of the Caribbean for 73 hours in a twenty eight foot sailboat and sharing a tight 5x5 ft. cockpit space with someone else is something that we will look back on with a special fondness for the rest of our lives.
Peace out,
Dave, Sarah and Lizzy Belle
Grenada to Bonaire - 387 Nautical Miles of wide open Caribbean Waters
The sun setting in the west on the third night at sea. We found ourselves enjoying the sunset and anxiously preparing ourselves for another dark night on the ocean. A challenge no doubt.
Our sail plan - except we went farther north to avoid pirates from Venezuela.
Learning to live together in a 5X5 foot cockpit. It sounds harder than it actually was. Above: Sarah brushing her teeth as the sun rises behind LB.
Each day we would have to dry out our foul weather gear before
it got wet again overnight.
Once we saw land our harness and foul weather gear came off and I we felt free once again. Sarah taking us into safe harbour.
Looking and feeling like a pirate after a few days at sea!
Oatmeal, coffee, fresh fruit and nutmeg syrup has become a morning
ritual for Sarah and I.
Our Grohmann Knives are dull, rusty and soaked in salt water. We are sharpening, cleaning and drying them out.
Lizzy Belle's sleeping quarters.
A happy Captain! It's nice to have company on LB.
It may have been a 73 hour blurr over the last few days at sea and there is no doubt in my mind that a few things stand out from the rest of the daily tasks. First: Lizzy Belle cut through every swell, squall or confused seastate as if she was made for that purpose and that purpose alone. The other - Sarah: Although we were tired, hungry, wet, cold or intensely hot under the sun or just plain ready to be on land again... not once did she express an inkling of discomfort, fear or anxiety. Every task was completed with enthusiasm and respect... each 3am shift on the tiller seemed to be a joy for Sarah as did going below decks and preparing a meal... even having to use the bathroom off the back of the boat in front of someone else didn't phase her (or me) in the least. We will always remember our sail to Bonaire... it is truly all about the journey and not so much about the destination.
I have quoted this before and I will quote it again from L. Francis Herreshoff, designer of Lizzy Belle and many other H28 class sailboats sailing around the world today:
Sensible Cruising by L. Francis Herreshoff
Crew: "Your companion on a cruise has a far, far greater effect on the success of the venture than any cabin arrangement... there are females ( god bless them ) who can take it, are real companions and helpmates; who can stand a trick at the tiller or galley. That's the kind that's right up your alley... build a golden halo around her in your mind's eye, and let her know it once and a while, for you and she working together can bring out the pleasure, charm, and melody there is in a craft like the H-28."
L. Francis Herreshoff - Crew
I think one of Sarah's favourite activities on Lizzy Belle is cooking underneath the lanterns of LB's galley. Let me tell you... the food is by far better than it has been for all the years I have been sailing on LB.
The man himself - L. Francis Herreshoff
Over the past few weeks Sarah has dealt with me through a week of Dengue Fever and spent 73 hours living in an uncomfortable, small wet space in the middle of the Caribbean. Welcome aboard Sarah; Lizzy Belle and I are lucky to have you as long as your adventure allows. L. Francis Herreshoff would be proud!
Once in port, Sarah found the Hammock below decks and we carefully tied it between LB's two masts. The water in Bonaire may be the clearest I have ever seen. This is good because the temperature may be the hottest I have ever experienced.
January 20th, 2014
A Hidden Crew Members Perspective
Guten Tag liebe Leute!
Let me introduce myself. I’m a little Troll, I’m from Germany and people tell me all the time that I’m not so pretty. I used to live with my two Troll brothers in a flat in the South of Germany with four lovely girls. One of the girls bought us at a flee market one day and because all three of us were so awkward and unique, she took us home. It became the running joke for the four girls to hide me and my brothers in the other girls rooms underneath the pillows, in the cupboard, in the fridge, or wherever the other would least expect it. It was fun times because all four of them would always get very angry finding me in the most awkward places. One day one of the girls - the one with the dreadlocks - decided that she wanted to go travelling and see the world, so she chose to go on an adventure. She first went to Cadiz in Spain where one of the other girls, the brown haired one, was spending her semester abroad so she took me with her to carry on the joke. That was cool, I was very excited to get out of Germany and travel! But the brown haired girl found me before the dreadlock girl left and she, as smart as she is, hid me in the dreadlock girls camping mattress. And there I was stuck in that mattress in her backpack! We were leaving Spain on a ferry to Gran Canaria where we spent two weeks living in a squatted house, the girl went surfing and hiking in the mountains and found lots of friends. Then, faster than she thought, she found a beautiful 27m long luxury sloop sailing vessel named The Aria and we crossed the Atlantic Ocean with six fella's from all over the world. It was a big adventure as it was her first time on a sail boat. After three weeks we finally arrived on the other side of the ocean on an Island named Grenada. The girl and her two crew mates were aching for some green mountains, some jungle and a workout after three weeks at sea and then they went hiking and camping in the mountains of Grenada. That was when my big moment came... The dreadlocked girl used the camping mattress for the first time since she left Spain and I finally got out of there. Then she was just a hootin and haulerin when she found me, she couldn’t believe that her friend tricked her again and that I had travelled with her all the way across the ocean! Well, I might not be the best looking little troll but I sure am a good travelling companion!
We left Grenada and sailed west towards the ABC Islands. For Sarah, it was the first time sailing intensely as the Aria was entirely electric and push-button rigged and all that jazz. So we sailed through Bonaire and Klein Curacao until Aruba, I think you guys heard those stories already. It was just great days on the water. Sarah and I got comfortable with the no fridge situation pretty quickly, and adjusted to the no shower situation as well, Joy dishwashing soap and salt water are doing their job. We got wet by sea and rain throughout our journey, we saw the most amazing sunsets, we built bonfires on deserted beaches, we pulled up 30ft of anchor chain (well actually that was Sarah, I told you guys that I’m not so much into hard work), we fought against falling asleep during long nights on watch, we took waves over Lizzy Belle's bow while sleeping and it was absolutely beautiful. When we finally arrived in Aruba, for Sarah and I it was time to make an impactful decision. Sarah's plan was to go to Panama, as she left Germany to go backpacking through Central and South America. I told Sarah that we can’t just leave Lizzy Belle and that little bandana-wearing bearhunter of a Captain after those beautiful weeks we had spent together. I told her that I’m just all "jacked up" with that gorgeous lady of a boat and that it would break my heart taking me away from her. It worked again! Sarah and Captain Bearhunter had a serious talk about where to go and all that stuff that humans always worry about - a decision was made: we are going to make a passage north! Going to Panama would only be possible if Lizzy Belle was prepared to cross the Panama Canal and head into the Pacific towards Australia, as the winds can’t get her back into the Caribbean from Panama. This would be a very big project that can’t be tackled at this moment. A far better lifechoice for us is sailing north from here, so we still have the winds on our backs. That means our next stop is gonna be a little island on the southeast corner of Haiti, Ile de Vache. From there we’re going to head west again to Jamaica. I can tell you from travelling with a dreadlocked rasta girl for more than three months, Jamaica is gonna be just AWESOME! So in the end everything worked out perfectly. I can stay with my beloved beautiful Lizzy Belle. Captain Bearhunter and Sarah are researching and getting prepared for the trip now and crew morale in the Caribbean is higher than ever.
Das war also meine Geschichte bis hierher, machts gut Leute, wir melden uns wieder sobald wir in Haiti sind!
After leaving the sailing vessel Aria, we stayed in an abandoned roofless house for a couple of days, then we travelled up the island to a Cocoa Farm and the dreadlocked girl, her name is Sarah by the way, helped in harvesting and drying the cocoa (I for my part don’t like working so much, I must admit). Afterwards, Sarah found a 52ft Canadian Racing Sailboat named BoXXer where we stayed for a couple of weeks at anchor and worked on the boat with the owner. Then someone you guys probably all know very well crossed our path: That little green-eyed "dirtbag" ( you'll understand if you saw the documentary ) of a Novia Scotian Bearhunter (as far as I know that is what those Canadians do, right?) with his beautiful wooden boat. At the very first moment I fell in love with that elegant wise soul named Lizzy Belle. Her perfectly shaped sails, her nice white oak wood that has weathered so many storms, the warm light of her two small oil lamps below decks.... I just couldn’t resist her. I told Sarah that we just HAVE to go with them, and she listened to me. Lizzy Belle got two new Crew members shortly afterwards and it's been more than three weeks as of today. I’ve been enjoying this experienced, humble and joyful twenty eight feet piece of floating artwork! Oh, how her sails blow in the wind, how she gently winds her way through all types of seas, how she rocks me to sleep every night... She just makes my little Troll soul melt away.
Above: Sunset on the Aria in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Left: The guys and I just after Sarah found me in her mattress.
Nathan and Danny were part of the Aria Crew.
January 15th, 2014
From Bonaire, Klein Curacao to Aruba
Hey friends, we have been making moves and have come along way since our last post. As we cruise through the ABC's it seems as though there has been one adventure after another. This blog post covers everything from Bonaire until Aruba and the cruising in between. Enjoy!
BONAIRE
By far the biggets attraction of Bonaire had to be the life beneath Lizzy Belle's keel. We spent a few afternoons in the water snorkeling around and admiring the colourful sealife. What we discovered was off of the white sand beaches there was a depth of about 5 feet taking you out about a quarter of a mile and then the depth dropped straight down fartehr than we could see. The entire wall looking down was covered in sea life and we had multiple turtle sightings and all kinds of fish, coral and sea creatures.
I can easily say Bonaire must have been one of the most friendly Caribbean Islands I have visited over the past three years. The people were helpful and considerate, the cruisers seem as though they have found ways to integrate and add to the island's culture and to much of my surprise... even customs was welcoming and joyful. While checking out a friendly immigration officer gave us popcorn as we waited for the paperwork to be completed. I highly recomend looking for vacation time or cruising time on this island - Bonaire is most definitely the place to be.
Awesome signs on the east side of Bonaire.
Sarah making porridge and coffee in the morning.
Happy hour and watching the sunset.
Klein Curacao
25 miles west of Bonaire lies a beautiful little island and although we found it was very busy with tourists during the day - they abandoned us around 4pm and Lizzy Belle was anchored all alone. The white sand beach was absolutely perfect and the waters surrounding it may have been the most vibrant turqouise color I have ever seen. As the sun went down we built a small fire on the beach and enjoyed being alone at last. Beans and rum and coke were on the menu for dinner. An almost full moon lit up the waterfront and we had a clear view of Lizzy Belle anchored about 40 feet offshore. The pictures should paint a clear image of the beauty...
Downwind to Curacao, 25 miles. We were happy with light winds and very calm seas.
Sarah's dreadlocks have become weak at certain points near her roots. This is where she decided to cut my hair and weave it into hers to reinforce them. No doubt, we take care of each other while living in a 28 foot space...
It will grow back... :)
Strength!
The coast guard passed over us a few times and finally called us on the radio. We got permission to stay one night on the island after giving all LB's information over the VHF. It was kinda cool talking to the Coast Guard flying over us while we were under sail.
This is what we were welcomed with... paradise for sure!
Sarah and I built an incredible fire to cook our supper on.
Beans!
Swimming in the morning.
Turtles everywhere under LB's keel
We decided to explore the Island and see if we could find some adventure. This shipwreck on the east side was a treasure to photograph.
One fo Sarah's Fine Art pieces. Well done!
It was incredible to see the ship decaying and yet curiously beautiful in it's own fashion.
We discovered more than one wreck on the island. Klein Curcacao is very flat and hard to see when out on the ocean.
There was also an abandoned lighthouse in the middle of the island. We climbed all through it.
Ya mon!
No matter where we end up... we will always remember who the real Pirates of the Caribbean were!
I have to note: this was the coolest, most industrial Customs location I have ever been to... drying out again!
ARUBA
The next day we left our anchorage at 3pm and set sail for an 80 mile run to Aruba. It took us 16 hours overnight and once again Neptune was good to us offering calm seas and moderate winds. We checked into Aruba Customs around 8am the following morning and are now anchored in Oranjestad. Although we are happy to be here Sarah, Lizzy Belle and I have decisions to make and none of them seem easy. Sarah's original goal was to eventually make landfall in Panama and continue on from there. Aruba seems to be a jump off point and it seems we are at a fork in the road... Should LB continue on to Panama or do we have Jamaica in our sites...only 500 miles away? Together we may decide its best to head to Columbia and continue down the coast... or should Sarah jump ship and head to the canal on her own. All good questions and we figure in time... we will have the answers. Talk soon friends... hope you are enjoying the journey!
News/Blog
Feb 2nd, 2014
Crossing from ARUBA to HAITI - 397 miles
Locals greeted us with fresh fruit and Lobster.
Poor little fella is in our bellies now...
All and all, after the hard work all night, we were greeted with this sunrise before we pulled into Ile a Vache, Haiti.
Finding creative ways to stay dry!
Sarah taking a power nap!
On the final morning I took to beer to stay awake...
A solid squal 150 miles off of Haiti.
Sarah keeping morale high by playing the harmonica.
The end of the second day - Lizzy Belle's galley is a disaster... and soaking wet.
We began taking turns sleeping below decks as it was too wet outside.
Hot meals - Popcorn and cheese and crackers. Good times!
Squall!
We quickly began to realize how wet the journey would be. We would dry everything out during the day and get soaking wet all night.
First sunset on our three day passage.
Our sail plan - Crossing the Caribbean Sea.
Our panic bags, full of flares, survival gear and two chocolate bars.
Sarah taking care of the business - raising the head sail as we begin to head North towards Haiti.
On every licsence plate in Aruba!
Reprovisioning in Aruba at the Mega-Super-Hypermarket.
On the tiller welcoming another sunrise behind us!
Hey everyone,
We must apologize, it's been busy. So here is the low down. Sarah, the Troll, Lizzy Belle and I have now spent some serious time at sea. We are all fairly proud of crossing the Caribbean Sea and believe it has only built upon our resilience when it comes to offshore sailing.. and probably a lot more. We are happy to report that we have been safe in Haiti for almost a week and a half now and it was far worth the very wet, and what seemed to be long crossing from Aruba. Before we get into how special Ile a Vache is, let us report on Aruba and the crossing to Haiti.
Cool, so Aruba was everything we could of asked for if we were on vacation in the Caribbean Islands. The only problem was we felt like we were on Vacation - beach bars, shopping malls and cruise ships lined the shores of Aruba. Which was the perfect place to have a drink and reprovision before our next adventure. Heading North! Wow, what a journey!
We set out on the first day with little wind and the sun setting off of Lizzy Belle's port side. Quickly the sun went down and began taking some fairly large waves over Lizzy Belle's bow. I'm not going to lie, it was very wet until the morning. Which is all good and was expected. Our second day was a lot drier and we had calmer seas. For the first time we began cooking hot meals offshore and taking turns sleeping below decks which was a little more comfortable than the cockpit. I will say, Lizzy Belle once again was in her prime and we had to keep our energy up to hers.
Looking back, at the end of the journey we once again went through the "not so great" and were welcomed by some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets, some character building squals and of course some very tired watches in the middle of the night. We both agree it was worth every minute of sailing to get to a place as untouched as Haiti is at the moment.
We have been here for over a week and a half and have lots to report... internet isn't the sharpest and we will continue to do our best to update the blog.
Much Love to all at home and I'm sure we will talk soon!
Ganz viele liebe Gruesse von der wunderschoenen Ile-a-vache, wir melden uns bald wieder mit mehr Bildern und Berichten!
And... Lizzy Belle dries out once again!
February 11th, 2014
Isle a Vache, Haiti - Traditions and Tourism
When we first caught site of Isle a Vache I remember Sarah and I questioned whether or not we made the right decision. As we entered the bay east of the island there seemed to be nothing but sailboats scattered throughout the harbour. I asked Sarah if she thought there was a regatta going on. What we realized as we got closer that those boats weren't cruising foreign sailboats, but traditional Haitian sail boats with teams of fishermen about to head out for their daily catch. Some of the boats have small diesel engines although most rely on sail power. We even saw men in dugout canoes with make-shift sails and giant lobster traps balancing across the bow. As we entered we dropped anchor off of a town called Kay Kok in about 30 feet of water. We were approached by many, very gentle, local people offering foods and services. It was hot, we were tired from our travels, and we slept...
After a few days we began to understand the island in greater depth. We had many conversations with locals about the culture, politics and current tourism conditions. Currently on Isle a Vache there seems to be a division between the people and the governement. How it was explained to us was that the government is planning on paving roads, building hotels and developing properties creating jobs and expanding tourism opportunities. Which sounds great for tourism and the economy... but at what cost? A local fishermen explained to us that they enjoyed and welcomed tourists, they just didn't want thousands of them disrupting their traditional way of life... he also explained that to develop hotels with beachfront properties the government would have to relocate the villages into apartment complexes. Something about that didn't sit right with us...
A local fishermen pulling in fishing nets early in the morning.
Fishermen hard at work.
A restoration project!
Drinking rain water caught in our tarps.
The backup village well...
The current well needs repair and they have no replacement parts at the moment.
Sarah had a battle with a coconut on Lizzy Belle's deck.
Boatmade banana bread. Delicious!
We found oatmeal at a small grocery store in Les Cayes on the mainland...
...and we discovered that it was not only oatmeal but also some "living protein" that we bought there...
We had a solid collection by the time we were finished sifting through the oats :)
Many cuts, swelling and bruises these days.
A grumpy looking fish.
The UN visited our bay and boarded us once.
We had great company in Isle a Vache. There was a family anchored beside us from Montreal, QC. They just began their two year cruise around the Caribbean and we spent multiple evenings hanging out and sharing stories. Very good people. Check out their blog at: www.oseo.ca
The UN boarding their boat Oseo a few days before they boarded us.
The kids sold all of their toys before they left Canada to raise money for a local orphanage. They raised over 5000 dollars and we believe it was much needed.
Sarah and I connected with a few local boys who asked for English lessons. After the first session in their home we invited them out to Lizzy Belle. The boys were polite, curtious and we could see how much they loved exploring Lizzy Belle.
We gave the boys all of Lizzy Belle's past sunglasses which previous guests had left behind. Enjoy friends!
Fishermen up early and working hard for their families.
A traditional fishing vessel upclose.
The cockpit. Handmade sails, hand carved rudder and bamboo mast
and boom. Sick rigs for sure!
Fishermen sailing into a giant squal, looking towards the main city of Les Cayes.
Despite Haiti's reputation Sarah and I both agree that there was not one moment in which we felt unsafe during our visit. We shopped in local markets, hiked into the backcountry with children from the orphanage, we took a water taxi to the mainland to go food shopping, we swam to and from land whenever possible and had visitors to the boat daily. The people were kind and friendly and the community of Kay Kok is most definitely one of the most unique and untouched places Lizzy Belle has come across to date. As we sailed out of the bay last Friday we reflected on short visit and felt as though we were left with many unanswered questions... mostly surrounding the future of such a pristine small island. We wish everyone who crossed our paths all the best and thank you for taking care of us...
In a small town located an hours walk from where Lizzy Belle was anchored there is an orphanage run by a woman named Sister Flora. There were 74 children currently living in the orphanage and although we believe it is well managed, their team is in much need of help. We agreed that 74 children were a lot to care for, especially since many of them have special needs and sometimes are not in great physical shape when they first come to the orphanage. Sister Flora, who is 72 but is moving with the energy and the strength of a 20 year old, is going above and beyond with efforts for these children as well as for the community. She also welcomes every child in need - lots of the children are not even from Isle a Vache but from the mainland of Haiti. The Sister also tries to supply the local village with medication and clean drinking water. She also rescued people of a small island that completely burnt down a couple of weeks ago. Her project and the strength and commitment with which she was working for the children and the people impressed us deeply. After our first visit we returned and spent the entire day playing with the children and helping out with meals. At the end of the day we went for a hike and flew kites with them. It was great fun!
Sister Flora is urgently looking for volunteers, ergotherapists and physiotherapists, but also just people who want to spend time, play and have fun with the children. Besides that she is more than happy about any kind of much needed financial support! For more information check out: http://100kforhaiti.blogspot.com/p/sister-flora.html
Cruisers headed to Isle a Vache. Please bring medical supplies, childrens clothing, diapers, milk, batteries to donate.
Each night we went to sleep feeling safe and sound...
Crossing from Haiti to Jamaica - 168 nautical miles...
The crossing from Haiti was short in distance although felt long when it came down to passing time. In the beginning the winds were just right however shortly after we pulled out of Isle a Vache we realized that it may be more difficult than expected. The winds were a little too light which meant Lizzy Belle was rocking fairly hard. It was the first time we had to take sea sick meds since Grenada. We were happy we had some left over after the original plan to sail from Nova Scotia to Bermuda so many years ago!
We averaged about four knots crossing 168 nautical miles and arrived in Port Antonio, Jamaica after a 33 hour run. Once we hit the docks in Jamaica they joined us on the wharf. We didn't know it but if Customs and Immigration find out you were in Haiti you end up quarantined on your boat for 3 days with daily visits from doctors who would want to stick thermometers in unwanted places. We all know how much we enjoy our time on LB and being stuck on her in the heat of the sun, not being allowed to swim or go shopping for fresh food is not something we were looking forward to. Sarah and I thanked our friends for their advice and quickly stashed all the Haitian Rum underneath the tool chest close to Lizzy Belle's keel...and then we came up with our story!
36 hours later we cleared customs and began exploring the island of Jamaica!
Taking turns sleeping and having two hour shifts on the tiller really leaves you feeling hazy after a few nights straight at sea.
We make the best of it!
December 22nd, 2013
Staring into the eyes of what makes Grenada stand out from the rest...Mona Monkey's!
Your looking at it! This is a wild Mona Monkey! I understand the speciies was orginally only found throughout Western Africa before they were brought to Grenada on slave ships in the 18th Century. Before Mark headed back to Nova Scotia we found this guy on the peak of the highest mountain in the nation, Mount Saint Catherine. I was able to get close enough to entertain him with his own reflection in the glass at end of my lens. The following are other macro photographs I was able to stumble upon in the past few weeks. Enjoy!
Looks poinsonious to me!
Part of a Banana tree, believe it or not...
I chased this guy around for almost half an hour. He finally gave up on trying to elude me.
I thought this was the National Flower of Grenada... google said I am wrong
This guy looks like he is going to be a Velociraptor when he grows up!
I think this little fella is a Giant Ameiva. Please send me a message if I am wrong and I will change it.
December 17th, 2013
They say, "Big boats get the glory, small boats make the sailor."
We headed out of St David's Harbour mid morning last Saturday. We knew the winds would be high and to be real; I wasn't expecting 10 - 12 foot swells. LB and her crew took charge straight away and we raised the JIB sail only to realize I had rigged her improperly. All three of us quickly recognized what was happening and without saying a word to each other we were solving the problems at hand. With the Old Man on the tiller he headed straight for Venezuela and then Jibed back towards Grenada half way through the journey. The hardest part of the sail was heading into safe harbour as there were deadly reefs on either side. I manned the navigation systems double checking our progress with Mark and my Old Man's experience and wisdom. They, once again, reminded me to watch the water rather than the screen in front of me. Wise fellas! As we entered with the JIB up, a gust hit us and our dinghy flipped over behind us breaking the tie between her and Lizzy Belle. The dinghy, in the high breeze, was heading straight for a reef 20 metres away from us. Without speaking we headed into the wind, doused the JIB and pointed straight towards our desperate dinghy. With the engine throttle on full we managed to rescue her 10 feet from the reef which was intensly breaking beside us. Mark and I lifted her right onto the deck. I remember speaking outloud to my father, " I would have had to leave the dinghy behind if I was alone". He agreed, as it would have been best for Lizzy Belle.
Right now we are anchored in Woburn Bay in Southern Grenada and I plan on sticking around until after Christmas as Michele and Al are here on Easy Listening and the locals have agreed, after my Old Man reminded them, "to take care of my Davie". He's always looking out for me!
OHHHHHH, YA MON - OUR LUGGAGE SHOWED UP!
Mark and The Old Fella took off today at 1:40pm and I will say it was a pleasure having them for the past few weeks. If they didn't join me, I would imagine I'd still be sanding and painting back in St David's Harbour and getting ready to put LB in the water. I will say, I have a very strong support system at this point in the adventure. All of you know who you are and I thank you again for taking such good care of Lizzy Belle and I. Good on ya friends and much love!
Now that Mark and the Old Man are gone - it's back to the old menu: Cold Creamed Corn, Tuna with Hot Sauce, Dill Pickles and a semi warm Beer! Delicious!
We are starting to get organized in LB's sleeping quarters.
Our buddy Al back in Nova Scotia hooked us up with a complete set of charts of the Caribbean. Maybe now I won't run aground again ;)
My Aunt, Jill Welsford, made wonderful custom designed cushions for Lizzy Belle's cockpit. If you have ever been on LB for a passage it has not been comfortable whatsoever. This is a game changer for sure. Thanks Jill, your efforts have not gone unnoticed!
December 13th, 2013
LB Takes the Plunge
and... seems to be watertight!
The adventure continues... After four days of straight work in the boatyard we are finally rewarded by welcoming Lizzy Belle home. At 11:35am she hit the water after the workers at the boatyard gentley lowered her into the Caribbean Ocean with the marinas giant travel lift. From their we only had an hour at the warf before we were asked to take a mooring. We spent most of that time solving fuel problems with a mechanic named "Green". After re-routing some lines and taking Greens advice our Yanmar 2YM 15 fired up and has been running quite well ever since. We loaded the cushions onboard, sorted out the sleeping arrangements and stared up her navigational systems. Also, Lizzy Belle seems more watertight than she has ever been with the bilge pump only automatically setting itself off twice a day. This is definitely a good thing and shows me that my summer away from her may not have been as hard as expected.
At the moment the bags my Old Man and Mark brought down full of Lizzy Belle gear are lost. In them contain: custom seat cushions - which my aunt spent over three weeks making - our trancducer ( depth sounder ), a bunch of cruising charts and I think my old man even had a Christmas present for me... maybe Beef Jerky! Even though they are lost and we have probably racked up over a grand in phone bills trying to track them down we are hopeful and believe they will turn up.
At the moment we are tucked into a bay called, Whisper Cove and had quite a the sailing adventure getting here. I'll save taht story for our next post.
Enjoy life,
Crew of Lizzy Belle
December 10th, 2013
Reviving Lizzy Belle
7 months worth of TLC jammed into 4 days...
Everything is good my friends. I'll give you a quick update. My father and our long time family friend Mark have met me in Grenada to "splash" Lizzy Belle. We met her two days ago and although there is a ton of work, it is nothing we cannot handle. Of course our journey wouldn't be the same without a few setbacks. My old man's luggage was lost which of course was all Lizzy Belle's extra gear - brand new cockpit cushions, a depth sounder and various other important parts. No worries though as our hopes are high that it will arrive shortly. Lizzy Belle was expectedly covered in mildew and mold and we were informed that a few feet of water had been sitting inside her for at least over a month. This of course became a worry because of electrical problems. Over the next few days my old man, Mark and I will sand, paint, clean, epoxy, wash, fix and rebuild Lizzy Belle in any and every way possible. It's hot and the cold beer at the end of the day are quite rewarding!
I'll keep everyone in the loop as the week goes on. Good times in the Caribbean for sure! Talk soon!
Drying all the gear out because it was covered in mold.
This little fella didn't make it through the summer...
Lizzy Belle's deck is in pretty good condition.
About a 12 inch crack in her hull. Nothing that cannot be fixed though.
Standard "boat work" meal - Bologna, cheese, bread and mustard
Our buddy Mark sanding LB's hull for her paint job.
Lizzy Belle was flooded with about 2 feet of water - it left everything rusty
My old man is actually smiling here. Mark is loving life in the Caribbean!
Beleive it or not - this is everything cleaned out... needs some paint I think.
