We said our farewells to Dean as he set off to crew another yacht back to Wellington! Pete and I headed to land and spent a few nights at my parents place in Kerikeri and had lots of cuddles with Monty. He seemed pretty chuffed to have us around, or it may have just been his tucker time!

After living on board for the last 8 weeks, it was such a treat to have a home cooked meal, sleep in a large comfy bed, enjoy a hot shower, even the ease of clicking the kettle to boil the jug! I was surprised how much I was aware of all the space around me. It certainly makes you appreciate all the little things in life.

We were looking forward to taking the family out sailing around the Bay of Islands. Having a couple of nights off, we took them out to Motuarohia Island – a favourite spot of ours. We all took a walk up to the lookout, enjoyed lunch on board, a few swims before we sailed back into Opua.

We hadn’t done much anchoring as we’d signed up to use the crusing clubs moorings through out the Sounds, most areas down there are not great holdings to anchor in. We knew we wouldn’t have that luxury here and we’d have to get the hang of anchoring.

Before we left Mana we’d arranged to use a swing mooring in Opua until they arrived later that month. This was super handy as it gave us a chance to organise and repair a couple of things we had planned for Nagu.

We called in and saw the team at Great Escapes Sailing, we had chartered one of their boats early last year (mainly to see if we could actually consider buying, sailing and living on a yacht). Our sailing instructor was there and was stoked to hear our journey and see Nagu moored just off from them. We headed over to the crusing club for dinner with them all, they had so many questions and wanted to hear all about our adventure.

We’ve had some super hot days here which has made for some warm uncomfortable nights but it’s been so nice being back in the far north. We’ll get through this list of boat chores then we’ll be off again exploring!

• Mana, Porirua to Opua, Bay of Islands
• Distance: 527NM
• Av. Speed: 5.5kts.
• Time: 4 Days, 10 hours

We had a quick turn around in Mana, 48 hours to restock, repack, purchase some additional safety equipment, plan and prepare for the next trip. Our biggest one yet, with lots of firsts!

I was both excited and nervous! We’d spoken about this being the next trip after the Malborough Sounds but it’s quite surreal when you say goodbye and start your voyage north. Watching the land get smaller and smaller before it disappears and all you can see is the distant horizon.

Even though its coastal sailing we treated it with the same respect as off shore sailing. The plan was to head up the west coast, this leaves only one stop in New Plymouth if needed otherwise it’s a non stop trip to Opua. The weather outlook was good, the southerly wind stuck around which would help sail Nagu up the west coast. At times the wind was so light we had to motor sail, we were happy with this and would much rather a calm motor sail up the country then be hit with huge winds.

Dean helped us crew Nagu up the coast, he’s done this route many times and shared his wealth of knowledge and experience along the way. As a crew of three, we set out a three hour rotating roster, this worked really well and after previously working 13 hour night shifts, 3 hours was a breeze!

Day 1 – We put the sails up just off Mana Island, the wind was light but we could see 10-15kts further out so we headed in that direction. Getting the hang of doing everything on the move, spilt my coffee all over the floor in the first hour….lesson learnt…..it moves! Adapting quickly, it all became a bit easier.

As Mt Taranaki came into view, we headed into our first night onboard. I wasnt too worried about the night watch, I was more worried about seeing another boat and not hitting it! As you can imagine, I was thrilled that on our first night we would pass through the Kupe and Māui gas and oil fields. At least they were lit up for miles and easy to spot.

I had my book, plus some downloaded Netflix series to keep me occupied during my shift, although I really didnt need anything – the night sky, stars and phosphorescence lighting up the water as we sailed through was incredible! I spent so many hours just mesmerised by the night, being present and enjoying the surroundings.

Day 2 – We were all pretty tired, the previous 24 hours had been mentally and physically tiring. The initial excitement was wearing off, mix this with broken sleep, I guess you could say we were getting into the cruising routine.

I’d prepped a heap of meals before we set off to make cooking easier on the move, plus given the long days, we always looked forward to a yummy meal. Dean had brought along his fishing lures and we caught some tuna. The next few days we had fresh ceviche, sashimi, pan fried, crumbed and then curried (I did think it was an offence to make a curry with tuna) but it was all delicious!

Day 3 – We’d been motor sailing for a while now, the wind was between 5-10kts and we were averaging 5.5kts. Everyone was pretty chilled on board, we’d take our shift, read, have a nap or watch a movie. It was a long trip once we passed Taranaki, 65NM off shore, theres nothing but water to see all around you. Maritime NZ were keeping watch on us and we checked in twice a day. We just had one 24 hour period with no coverage given our position offshore. I was also plotting our positioning along the way, it was slow but also nice to map out how we were tracking.

Day 4 – I woke up to the sight of land… well a sand dune but either way it was a great sight! We were just south of Ahipara and the water was so calm you could have taken your paddle board and paddled up 90 mile beach. For a coast line that is notoriously rugged, you could see shark fins above the water just crusing along. We were all full of energy, we’d be passing Cape Reinga this day and on the home straight. We even passed a couple of guys fishing off one of the fishing banks, you’d think I hadn’t seen another human for weeks! I was so excited, it was great chatting to them as we cruised past.

We wanted to get around the top and be heading down the east coast before dark. The currents, cray pots and shallow waters make it a bit of a mine field, one we didn’t want to manage in the dark. It was a four hour trip from point to point and pretty special seeing Cape Reinga from the water.

Sailing into the night was awesome, we were able to turn the engine off and sail along at 6kts. This was the first night with out the engine noise, it was so peaceful just listening to the sound of Nagu moving through the water.

Making our way down the coast on the final morning, enjoying passing places we’ve explored on land now seeing it all from a different angle. Once Cape Brett was in sight we knew we were nearly there, a sense of achievement for some salty sailors from Wellington, now arriving in the Bay of Islands.

A rather grand entrance, we were welcomed with 140 other yachts sailing towards us…….. Okay so there may have been a large sailing regatta underway that we had to quickly navigate our way through but despite all the chaos, we made it!

There’s something nice about no longer living to the clock. Going to bed when it’s dark, waking up when the sun comes up. Eating when your hungry, swim when your hot, afternoon siesta’s. It’s a pretty simple and relaxing way to live.

We’re down to our last eight tea bags, and officially run out of coffee. Meals are becoming more and more innovative and the planned “we’ll catch some fish” is hit and miss. I’ve said before, I love the challenge of seeing what I can make with what we have on board, but it’s been 10 days since we last visited a supermarket…. and the cupboards are starting to look, well…. I call it creative, Pete would say empty…… we wrote a list of meals we could make with what we had. The list is actually pretty good, although needed to last a few days before our next planned stop.

There is a road to outter Pelorus but no shops, this means you really need to be self sufficient. We took the tender (little boat) and rowed from the mooring around into Elaine Bay which has fuel, maybe it was the heat but we assumed if the bay has fuel, then maybe we could get an ice cream. Approaching the wharf, we see a cute old bungalow behind the fuel dock… looking very pub like, Yaass! We pull the tender up onto the grass and started walking, excited, hungry and obviously already planned our order. Passing the self service fuel dock, the bungalow was looking less and less like a pub while our enthusiasm faded. Laughing at each other on this imaginary lunch we’d created, we take a walk inland.

So with tea bags down to rations (Pete’s actual living nightmare). We get a call to confirm a skipper who’s able to help us crew Nagu to Opua. With this in mind, we decide to start heading towards outter Pelorus and wait for a weather window to head back across Cook Strait.

We had a great sail to Ketu then onto Alligator Head. An hour earlier I had commented that we hadn’t seen many dolphins. Before we knew it we were surrounded by a huge pod of dolphins and their little babies, it was an incredible experience as they all followed Nagu for a time. Such a magical way to finish up our time in the Malborough Sounds.

The weather window we’d been waiting for arrived and we had a great sail from Queen Charlotte Sounds into Port Ligar, Pelorus Sounds. We’d spent a lot of time planning the next leg and it was reassuring seeing a couple of other yachts ahead of us on the same route. I wouldn’t say it hasn’t been with out its stressors but as we become more experienced sailing Nagu, the sailing is getting easier and enjoyable.

Exploring new bays, we’ve met some incredible people along the way. The boating community is full of such helpful, friendly people, always happy to share their knowledge and experiences with us. When we had a wee incident which resulted in setting off the fire extinguisher! The mess left through out Nagu was massive, I didn’t even know where to start. Within minutes a clean up squad arrived and we spent the afternoon cleaning Nagu. We’re forever grateful to these guys, they happily gave up their holiday time to help us out.

On our way again, we spent Christmas in Ketu Bay, starting the day with a dive. It was super relaxing, we packed a picnic and walked out to an old bunker on Post Office Point, it was just magic. We were treated to a pod of dolphins putting on a show just off the boat when we returned!

As I sit here in Hallam Cove, reflecting on the last few weeks. It’s been filled with fun, laughter, challenges and even tears. We’re creating new memories, sharing the journey with friends on board, catching up with family and enjoying long warm evenings. I feel like we’re finally unwinding, starting to enjoy life again after what has been a challenging few years.

With just the two of us on board, the water, food and fuel all topped up, we sailed out to explore the middle of Pelorus Sounds. Theres something exciting about seeing how long we can stay off the grid for, what meals you can create with what supplies you have on board!

I feel like the photos tell the story this time, if you haven’t had a chance to visit this part of the country, it really is such a beautiful place.

You never stop learning and over the last few weeks I feel like I’ve learnt so much. Being out on the water, in a constantly changing environment, you are always adapting, facing new challenges and testing new ways of doing things, understanding and learning how the boat moves and how you’re going to respond to those changes.

We managed to sail almost every day over the last week or so. It’s been the best feeling! Having the sails up, turning the engine off and cruising through the water. Our novelty at the moment is making a cuppa tea on the move… you know how much Pete loves his tea!

At times, sailing in the sounds has been challenging. The sheer landscape means you get these huge gusts come through (record 39 knots) or your sailing along and lose the wind entirely. I’m feeling more and more comfortable with Nagu and our own confidence on board.

I’ve watched many boats dock aside a pier but never actually thought about how stressful it can be! We needed to go into Picton and get supplies, fuel and run a few errands, simple little trip to town right? What you dont see is the chaos just getting into the dock, avoiding the ferries, crusie ship, water taxis, a 29’er sailing race, paddle boarders, empty moorings and other boats heading out for the day and that’s before we can even see the pier. Now factor in the wind, other boats docked limiting where you can go and I’m thinking have I put the fenders in the right place, do I even know what I’m doing?!

We’ve been exploring the many bays Queen Charlotte sounds has on offer, it can be so peaceful and surreal, yoga on the bow, diving off the back, morning coffee in the sun reading. However, we’ve also spent a night reflecting / punished on what happens when you’re enjoying a calm quiet bay but don’t check the evenings changing wind direction overnight. Spending the night in what felt like a rollercoaster and no where to go.

We were able to get to the outer sounds and walk parts of the Queen Charlotte track. What a stunning part of the country and an amazing walking track. If felt so good to get out and about after being cooped up during the storm!

Peter has such a wealth of knowledge and shared some sailing stories from NZ and Europe where hes up to 36,000 nautical miles! Just amazing. Peter told us the name Nagu originated from an island in Finland. His Grandfather travelled from there to Bluff many many years ago chasing the gold rush. We’re so appreciative for all his support.

The great moments certainly outweigh the less than ideal moments, we’re learning and its these experiences that will help us keep moving forward! Next, were off to Pelorus Sounds where we’ll spend the next couple of weeks exploring new sights. We’re ready to go, just waiting on a good weather window.

Summer is absolutely my favourite time of the year. I have this expectation (probably unrealistic), that from the 1st of December every day will deliver a gorgeous sunny summers day. Well I couldn’t be more wrong.

We’ve been exploring the Queen Charlotte Sounds now for just over a week, we’ve had heavy rain, hail, crazy thunder and lightning and gale force winds. As you can imagine, I’ve had to find my inner patience with summer and try to enjoy, just being present. I tell myself it’s got to make you appreciate those gorgeous summer days that much more.

One thing this weather has taught us is how well Nagu handles the conditions. We were hoping for a period of calm winds and fine weather to get the sails up and play around before we hit the big seas but despite the storms we’ve still managed to at least get the head sail out and get moving.

I’ve always loved being on the water, and love sailing as a means to get there and explore its surroundings. The inner bays here are deep right to the waters edge with little or no shoreline to explore, so when you cant leave Nagu as you’re also taking shelter for the next two to three days. It raises the question…. when does cabin fever kick in!?

Over the last week and tucked away in a small bay, I’ve read books, played cards, watched a heap of movies, completed a puzzle and even mastered Edmonds finest griddle scones.

Surprisingly, when you have no other option then to take it easy and wait for a storm to pass, being stuck on the boat almost forces you to do just that, start living a slower pace of life.

What not to do while you wait for a storm to pass….. try to fix anything motor related which would prevent you starting the engine and getting you to the main town for parts. This resulted in an impromptu trip to Waikawa and we were on our way again.

Once the weather cleared we popped our head out of Double Cove and started making our way to the outer sounds. As quickly as the storm arrived it was gone and we enjoyed a gorgeous evening in Spenser Bay.

Getting through a week of storms, only one small bout of cabin fever and taking the time to unwind, I feel I have a new appreciation to the weather, you have no control over it, you adapt and just wait for it to pass. It certainly makes the good days that much better. X

I’d been monitoring my eight different weather apps closely over the last week and we finally had a weather window to start our journey and cross the Cook Straight into Queen Charlotte Sounds. 10 knots from the South, peak 15 knots, calm seas, switching to a northerly in the afternoon. Tides at Mana were midday and we could set off two hours before giving us enough room to cross the Mana sand bar (we have a 1.8m draft).

Our good friend Chris has been amazing, helping get the boat ready and joined us on the crossing bringing all his sailing experience. Crossing the Cook Straight many times, he was able to give us guidance on what we could expect while we build our experience on Nagu.

A couple of excited, nervous sailors we said our farewells and left the marina!

This ended quickly when we came to an abrupt stop hitting the increasing sand bar just outside the marina….. FAIL!
We can laugh about it now and fortunately the coastguard were passing and gave us a tow out. A few minutes later…… we were on our way…. again!

The actual crossing was amazing, gorgeous calm sea, blue skies and at times not quite enough wind. Watching the land behind us get further and further away until we could make out the entrance at Cape Koamaru.

From passing The Brothers until we got past Cape Koamaru, the currents were strong and swirling. We had to factor this into the entrance, but we made it!

We sailed into Queen Charlotte feeling a sense of achievement and were welcomed with a pod of hector dolphins following us.

The following day, the rain had set in and a storm approaching, we sailed from Resolution Bay to Picton and dropped Chris off. Now just the two of us on board, we got this…. right…..?!
I said last time, I hadn’t had the “what the heck are we doing moment”…… Yup had it now! 🙈

We leave Picton, making a quick getaway before the ferries depart, they seem much bigger when you’re on the water!

With the storm here, we’re moored in a beautiful calm bay away from all the chaos enjoying everything around us.
That’s what it’s all about x

I’ve done it, I’ve finished up work for a whole year! WFA has been such a huge part of my life for the last 10 years, it was tough saying goodbye but have had such amazing love and support, especially over the past year. I’m excited to share our next adventure!

I’ve done a bit of sailing but taken more interest over the last few years (sitting on deck with wine versus the actual sailing part), completing a few courses, taking the opportunity to head out on friends boats and then chartering a yacht earlier this year for a week. Mainly to prove to ourselves if we really could do this. I have to say, there havent been too many “what the hell are we doing moments” and everytime I’m on the water I feel I’m in my happy place.

Two weeks in and we’re already one crew member down…. Monty… he’s developed some osteoarthritis in his front leg and needs to take it easy for a while. Montys having a little vay-cay in the far north and will join us again when we make our way there.

Sailing Nagu – turns out we dont need to change the boats name we just needed a new call sign. Phew that was much easier, same name….new call sign. Done.

There have been a few key things we needed to sort before setting off…. changing out the lines, these were worn and super tight making it really difficult to hoist the sails. Get off the grid… solar panels and LED lights… toilet and holding tank upgrade… batteries replacement…. new tender (thanks Sanders fam) plus a few little things to make it comfortable.

We are currently planning our first trip across the Cook Straight and into the Malborough Sounds. Everyone we’ve spoken to in the Marina has been so helpful sharing their knowledge….the weather, winds, current, tides, moorings, fishing and favourite spots!

I’m not even sure what this blog will hold yet, I’m hoping it’ll describe our journey and the adventure we’re on! I’m also guessing it will take a while to settle into boat life. But hey, we’ve got time to do just that x

We brought a yacht this year with the goal to set off around NZ and whereever else it might take us. I’m pretty useless as social media but am going to try and share our adventure with whoever feels like having a read!

The original name is the previous owners family name and he wants to take its registered name with him, leaving us to think of a new name! Who would have thought it would be this difficult to name a 35ft Davidson. Six months later we are still trying to come up with a name! Thanks for all the suggestions, we’re running out of time so will have to decide very soon.

The boats currently moored at Mana Marina while we get her ready to start our adventure.

We have had a few things to work on before we set off, so we’ve been busy getting everything sorted. With our leave from work all approved, we can really start to plan where we are going.