Sam. Ive been watching you for years. This might be my favorite video of yours so far. It just shows why youre the best sailing channel on youtube. The adventurous spirit, the respect for everyone and your environment. Just perfect. You convinced me a couple years ago to get rid of my power boat and purchase my first sailboat. A Corsair 24. I hope you keep inspiring other for many years to come. Merry Christmas!
Thank you for doing something I've always wished I could do. You definitely picked the right guy, I hope your sailboat and the waters are treating you well friend.
Sam I have to say you have balls travelling alone on your boat up a west African river! Such an adventure just to watch and such a great video! Thank you for taking us all along.
Dude. You make the world seem so much smaller and less scary. Thanks for this awesome video you just dropped like it was nothing. If I did this trip, I’d call it the biggest adventure of my life. For you, it’s a Tuesday.
Sam is pragmatic. He knew he was safe, obviously a muddy bottom, and he would just have to wait for the turn of the tide and he would be off down stream.
Your channel stands out from so many other sailing bloggers, your'e a true adventurer and as i sit in my local marina dreaming of taking my boat beyond the sight of land, i always seem to find a reason not to. But your journey around the world allows me to dream, THANKS
While other UA-camrs spend 3 minutes of intros with royalty free music, Sam jumps tight into his videos. That’s the way it should be done. Keep up the great work.
“It sounds like a fricken beast!” 😂🤣🤣👍❤️ then climbs a 40 foot mast for a better look after he has dropped anchor knowing the hippo, alone, kills over 500 people a year- while anchored in heavily hippo infested waters. Nothing, absolutely nothing I have watched on a sailing channel beats this episode. 🤣🤗😂. Just the best.🥇 Welcome to the Sam Holmes’ personal Heart of Darkness Tour. Epic! This was so awesome Sam! Thanks for taking us along. Wow!🤩
As an African I want to point out that infest is a very negative word that means to live in or overrun to an unwanted degree or in a troublesome manner, especially as vermin do. So hippos don't infest the river, it is their home, they live there, and you are the intruder. If you ever come to Africa you should remember that, and act accordingly.
Just goes to show you, people are people everywhere in the world very nice and accommodating willing to show their world to strangers and are happy to do it, beautiful interactions and country good one Sam!
On the English speaking part of the internet yeah. There’s a Portuguese one where he went up the coast of Brasil and entered the Amazon river, bro was that fun
What to say that your cumulative library hasn't already? Gunkholing in Florida flotsam, catching air off icy Norway whitecaps, sailing islands, isles and now West African rivers, chronicling a captain's narrative. You're quite a character of colossal character. Cagey and courageous, you also posses a spooky calculated cavalierness. Your keel may scrape bottom at times, but man oh man, your story always soars Sam!
Another long time viewer here adding to the praise of this classic sailing channel. Sam Holmes must be one of the most travelled Americans of all time and not just to tourist locations. This vid beats the hell out of the usual sailing in paradise vids, so common on UA-cam.
Dude.... you are so awesome! I love how you're stating that the goal of this sail is to see hippos and that you'll go as long is takes to see hippos. Bloody hilarious. You've got guts sailing up that river solo. Bravo.
Sam, put a hose clamp on the shaft behind the prop seal collar, push it hard against the collar and you have a back up, because the little set screws are all that’s holding the seawater out. They gradually wear and lose their grip on the shaft. Ask me how I know….!
Sam - this video was incredible - hopefully you're somewhere where you can grab a beer with this small token of appreciation, given the enjoyment your travels give to all of us across the globe!! Cheers!
If anyone deserves to do this it is you man. I'm incredibly glad you've been able to do this and I hope you receive enough support to continue to do so. I'm only sorry I'm not in a position to donate, but I'm happy that those that are able do. You have a wonderful soul. I hope you feel better man, thank you for the time and effort you put into your videos, it does not go unnoticed.
The stone circles of the Gambia River Basin, particularly those located in Senegambia (a region spanning The Gambia and Senegal), are some of the most significant and mysterious archaeological features in West Africa. These stone circles, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, date back to between 300 BC and 1600 AD.
Been watching since the early days, always amazes me how you handle the day to day issues with calmness and continued optimism which makes for enjoyable watching. Be safe out there!!
Incredible adventure..great interactions with everyday people. Nature viewing and spectacular night time colors captured on video.. wow Sam! Another must watch sailing video.
Great video! Very entertaining towards the end when everything was happening at once, I chuckled seeing the anchor in the dingy as u floated off the bottom but glad to see it's all good in the end.
Awesome work on many levels. Your cinematography of this beautiful place is next level. In the face of persistent risks, obstacles, and setbacks, you kept going and the Gambia River rewarded you with incredible sights, sounds and encounters. Obviously not an easy one to sail alone. This was the personification of courage, poise, graciousness, and humility under pressure.
Hi Sam, first time caller here... I have been watching your videos for years and think this one captures the heart more than any other. Your adventurous spirit and fearlessness is an inspiration! Thanks for being out there for us! May Pickled Herring (and the good lord) keep you safe, may you enjoy fair winds, and following seas, and may you continue to bring joy to us land lubbers here at home. Cheers!
Bro you are a bad ass holy crap! After watching a few videos I noticed your boat is smaller than most others I've seen. That's crazy. I could never do what you're doing it's absolutely incredible! Great video. Absolutely fantastic. Stay safe out there
I am a boater- and have definitely learned to chill more during the inevitable problems that crop up due to watching how Sam handles much bigger issues. Love the channel and look forward to the crossing.
Wow, Sam! What an outstanding adventure! Thanks for taking us along on your sailing adventure up the River Gambia! I love that you interact with the local people! I do the same whenever I visit a new place. Tourist areas can never offer a true glimpse into the lives and culture of the people. Looking forward to more updates!
Sam, I’ve been following your channel since you solo sailed across the Pacific (on a stick diet of spaghetti-Os lol) but this has to be your best sailing journey. Continue to travel too and showcase the forgotten corners of our beautiful world. Be safe buddy.
Im grateful that you have used this opportunity to engage in true adventure. Life exists in this space and you are experiencing much of it. Thank you for sharing.
So courageous. Making the best out of your life, thats not given to everybody. Just recently saw the video about your health. Understand a little better now. Hope to met you once on the sea. Stay healthy Sam, what a story ...
Marvelous episode - what an adventure! You're a very brave soul with an obviously adventuresome spirit!! Thank you for taking me somewhere I would never go.
Been watching for years, never commented. But wow! Best video you’ve put out. Love every one, this one is special. Happy voyage across the Atlantic! Following your track. Safe sailing.
Wow, awesome man, I think someone else in the comments said thanks for making travel like this look so non threatening, you make it look doable and rewarding. Thanks
Man you have guts ...awesome video ... and for sure no one ... else of the sailing channels i follow has done this...crazy man hats off to you and stunning as well.
Thank you thank you for this Gambia river trip. I lived in Senegal with my family for 10 years. I’ve visited Gambia two times. Enjoy the food and the wonderful people!
P.S I have been aboard Alans "Wave Rover II" which is moored in Malahide at the moment.Seen your name on the bulkhead,had achat about your exploits .... fair play fella 👏 Keep her lit !!! @samholmessailing
I love this episode, epic. Sam, you passed a boat on the river called Poppy Cock, 45 foot steel boat, white with a dark blue stripe anchored by the side of the river with another boat. I recognized it as one that used to belong to a couple that used to be here. It was called Muirsgian before. I sent her a screenshot and sure enough it was their old boat. It’s a small world. And apparently a lot of Tristan Jones stories were pretty much fiction. I remember him in Grenada in the 70s. He was an obnoxious little Welshman often drunk as a skunk and picking fights with charter captains. Hilarious.
Sam Holmes sailing is the most legitimate sailing channel out there... no bikinis or booze, just pure organic travel via sailing. This is great
Sam. Ive been watching you for years. This might be my favorite video of yours so far. It just shows why youre the best sailing channel on youtube. The adventurous spirit, the respect for everyone and your environment. Just perfect. You convinced me a couple years ago to get rid of my power boat and purchase my first sailboat. A Corsair 24. I hope you keep inspiring other for many years to come. Merry Christmas!
Thank you for doing something I've always wished I could do. You definitely picked the right guy, I hope your sailboat and the waters are treating you well friend.
Wow thank you. I really appreciate that. Glad to hear you enjoyed this one. Congrats on the corsair 24.
You're clearly bonkers on all counts
You are SO correct. XXOO
Vote with your dollar everyday
Sam I have to say you have balls travelling alone on your boat up a west African river! Such an adventure just to watch and such a great video! Thank you for taking us all along.
You should check out " Itchy Boots" the little Dutch girl on her motorcycle ride through Africa was really good.
yeah, pelotas grandes....truly Sam is an adventurer.......
He makes poor decisions often.
Gambia is beautiful! Scary but beautiful 👍
@@gidge34 me too
Dude. You make the world seem so much smaller and less scary. Thanks for this awesome video you just dropped like it was nothing. If I did this trip, I’d call it the biggest adventure of my life. For you, it’s a Tuesday.
I appreciate that!
Sam is the only sailor I know that runs ground with a smile
Sam is pragmatic. He knew he was safe, obviously a muddy bottom, and he would just have to wait for the turn of the tide and he would be off down stream.
@@valerielane1066 sure, but still doing it with a smile is awesome, I think we can all agree he has balls of steel 🙂
And argues with the natives, "you put your net too close to my boat I'm stuck on the ground what don't you understand?" You're too funny Sam!!
@@leversforever9748 That's as adamant as I've ever since Sam act and deservedly so
Truth!
Said it before and ill say it again. Best sailing channel on UA-cam.
I agree not worrying about building a catamaran and kids . It’s very refreshing.
It's more than a sailing channel at this point.
By far!
@Sam - I just realized I’ve been watching the future you for like 5 years. Sam and Barry (Adventures of a Seadog) are the same person.
You don't get out much
Been watching you for years... this is the most adventurous episode. Bravo!
Your channel stands out from so many other sailing bloggers, your'e a true adventurer and as i sit in my local marina dreaming of taking my boat beyond the sight of land, i always seem to find a reason not to. But your journey around the world allows me to dream, THANKS
Great to hear!
Sam is smart enough to know, the larger the boat, the more boring the channel Nothing boring here
Sam, have you heard that hippos can move through water fast? I saw a video where it capsized a bigger wooden dingy. Braver man than me.
While other UA-camrs spend 3 minutes of intros with royalty free music, Sam jumps tight into his videos. That’s the way it should be done. Keep up the great work.
“It sounds like a fricken beast!” 😂🤣🤣👍❤️ then climbs a 40 foot mast for a better look after he has dropped anchor knowing the hippo, alone, kills over 500 people a year- while anchored in heavily hippo infested waters. Nothing, absolutely nothing I have watched on a sailing channel beats this episode. 🤣🤗😂. Just the best.🥇 Welcome to the Sam Holmes’ personal Heart of Darkness Tour. Epic! This was so awesome Sam! Thanks for taking us along. Wow!🤩
As an African I want to point out that infest is a very negative word that means to live in or overrun to an unwanted degree or in a troublesome manner, especially as vermin do. So hippos don't infest the river, it is their home, they live there, and you are the intruder. If you ever come to Africa you should remember that, and act accordingly.
Just goes to show you, people are people everywhere in the world very nice and accommodating willing to show their world to strangers and are happy to do it, beautiful interactions and country good one Sam!
They really are!
If you are unlucky enough to come across crime or trouble in developing countries, it will be in a big city, never ever in a remote or rural area.
And many reports of people who were eaten when all was investigated.
@@Digiphex Canabalism? Not in the last two hundred years and only rarely before then (by reputation, in the Pacific and Indian Oceans - not Africa).
@@stephenburnage7687and it was the family eating the dead as a ceremony not a food source
This is the most legit sailing channel on UA-cam
On the English speaking part of the internet yeah. There’s a Portuguese one where he went up the coast of Brasil and entered the Amazon river, bro was that fun
What to say that your cumulative library hasn't already? Gunkholing in Florida flotsam, catching air off icy Norway whitecaps, sailing islands, isles and now West African rivers, chronicling a captain's narrative. You're quite a character of colossal character. Cagey and courageous, you also posses a spooky calculated cavalierness. Your keel may scrape bottom at times, but man oh man, your story always soars Sam!
This is something one does not see every day. Thank you!
Hello Sam my name is Momodou Jawo 🇬🇲 from The Gambia and presently living in Angola 🇦🇴
This so amazing really.
Another long time viewer here adding to the praise of this classic sailing channel. Sam Holmes must be one of the most travelled Americans of all time and not just to tourist locations. This vid beats the hell out of the usual sailing in paradise vids, so common on UA-cam.
Joseph Conrad would be proud, Sam. What an amazing solo adventure.
… so would captain willard
Dude.... you are so awesome! I love how you're stating that the goal of this sail is to see hippos and that you'll go as long is takes to see hippos. Bloody hilarious. You've got guts sailing up that river solo. Bravo.
Insane and fantastic footage, one of the best videos I’ve seen on YT sailing channels so far. Thanks for sharing!
Wow, thanks!
The one and only, Sam Holmes!! Bless mate.
I really admire your adventurous spirit.
Sam- this is one of your best videos ever. Great job.
I’m thinking National Geographic/Discovery Channel worthy.
He is better than Nat Geo !
I liked your channel for the rawness of it, but your editing is also starting to get pretty solid. The shot up the gunnel with the music was nice!
Thanks Sam, I agree with the comments below, best youtube sailing channel! What balls this adventure was! Good luck with your current crossing
Thanks so much! I really appreciate that
just repeating someone else: this is the best sailing channel on the internet.
Sam, what an interesting, organic and totally beautiful hour of adventurous rambling and honest living... You are an original.
The sunsets are wild in Africa, very beautiful. You're very brave Sam doing things most of us wouldn't do.
Sam, put a hose clamp on the shaft behind the prop seal collar, push it hard against the collar and you have a back up, because the little set screws are all that’s holding the seawater out. They gradually wear and lose their grip on the shaft. Ask me how I know….!
Great idea. Will do that
I've been watching sailing UA-cam videos for about 8 years. This is by far the most amazing!! A true adventure. Hippos sealed the deal.
Z
Z
Sam - this video was incredible - hopefully you're somewhere where you can grab a beer with this small token of appreciation, given the enjoyment your travels give to all of us across the globe!! Cheers!
Thanks so much. Cheers 🍻
If anyone deserves to do this it is you man. I'm incredibly glad you've been able to do this and I hope you receive enough support to continue to do so. I'm only sorry I'm not in a position to donate, but I'm happy that those that are able do. You have a wonderful soul. I hope you feel better man, thank you for the time and effort you put into your videos, it does not go unnoticed.
"These circles of stones have been stoning here for a million years" You heard it here first, folks. Sailor Sam, the intrepid field reporter.
The stone circles of the Gambia River Basin, particularly those located in Senegambia (a region spanning The Gambia and Senegal), are some of the most significant and mysterious archaeological features in West Africa. These stone circles, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, date back to between 300 BC and 1600 AD.
You're a special human. We need more like you my friend!
Been watching since the early days, always amazes me how you handle the day to day issues with calmness and continued optimism which makes for enjoyable watching. Be safe out there!!
Thank you, Sam. It certainly makes us realize how nice it is to be able to live in our country.
Incredible adventure..great interactions with everyday people. Nature viewing and spectacular night time colors captured on video.. wow Sam! Another must watch sailing video.
Thank you very much!
Great video! Very entertaining towards the end when everything was happening at once, I chuckled seeing the anchor in the dingy as u floated off the bottom but glad to see it's all good in the end.
One friggin HOUR!
Is it Christmas Eve already?
You are awesome!
Yes! Thank you!
Awesome work on many levels. Your cinematography of this beautiful place is next level. In the face of persistent risks, obstacles, and setbacks, you kept going and the Gambia River rewarded you with incredible sights, sounds and encounters. Obviously not an easy one to sail alone. This was the personification of courage, poise, graciousness, and humility under pressure.
This is the best video you've mad to date Sam, well it's my favourite anyway. It's beautiful, such a lovely ambience to it
Video deserves a significant cinematic award… great B roll and great storytelling:)))
Thanks for doing it!!!
Thanks Sam, superb content and great adventure.
The drone footage is absolutely amazing. It puts your location in the river in context.
This sets you apart from all the other channels Sam. Very interesting. Loved it! Looking forward to the Atlantic crossing.
You make me so proud advocating for yourself out there alone!
Your people must be so proud of you! I am and I don’t know you!!!!
Easily one of your best videos. You have some serious confidence and balls to travel solo to a place like this! Absolutely love it
Towing the anchor in the dinghy LMAO. ...... Also appreciate the authentic music towards the end.
Your content is fantastic . I love everything about them & how you put them together. All while on your journeys. Thanks once again Sam
Look at that pool, it's wonderful. Amazing what some contrast can do for your outlook.
Hi Sam, first time caller here... I have been watching your videos for years and think this one captures the heart more than any other. Your adventurous spirit and fearlessness is an inspiration! Thanks for being out there for us! May Pickled Herring (and the good lord) keep you safe, may you enjoy fair winds, and following seas, and may you continue to bring joy to us land lubbers here at home. Cheers!
Thanks Sam, you got me into sailing too. Started watching your videos.
Great to hear! Thanks for the support
Bro you are a bad ass holy crap! After watching a few videos I noticed your boat is smaller than most others I've seen. That's crazy. I could never do what you're doing it's absolutely incredible! Great video. Absolutely fantastic. Stay safe out there
Love all the real wildlife it's brilliant great camera work Sam love it thanks 🎉🎉🎉
What a Great episode Sam!!!! This is one for the History Books!!!!!
Super cool experience over there! And those monkeys were so cute!
Sam, a dingy, hippos in the area, and he's still smiling! Love it!
32 about to be 33 been watching you for a while definitely my favorite on UA-cam
Honestly, best entertainment on youtube at the minute !
Love how stoked you are for the bug zapper! Haha
Dude, you are SLAYING it on the bucket list items.
Awesome episode. Thx Sam
Your videos are still genuine and organic. I love that and have been a subscriber since your Hawaii sail. Keep being free.
Great episode, as always 👍
Peace & beauty in Africa, sereen & priceless
Best sailing channel on UA-cam thanks 🎉🎉🎉
This is an incredible film.. Thank you- safe travels Sam.
Many thanks!
I am a boater- and have definitely learned to chill more during the inevitable problems that crop up due to watching how Sam handles much bigger issues. Love the channel and look forward to the crossing.
Thanks
Wow, Sam! What an outstanding adventure! Thanks for taking us along on your sailing adventure up the River Gambia! I love that you interact with the local people! I do the same whenever I visit a new place. Tourist areas can never offer a true glimpse into the lives and culture of the people. Looking forward to more updates!
Man, you're the best. You remind me periodically why I love life on a sailboat and following my dreams so much! Thank you! KEEP GOING!
Sam, I’ve been following your channel since you solo sailed across the Pacific (on a stick diet of spaghetti-Os lol) but this has to be your best sailing journey. Continue to travel too and showcase the forgotten corners of our beautiful world. Be safe buddy.
Great video Mr. Holmes. Happy travels. Fresh winds
One of your most interesting vids. Thanks!
Im grateful that you have used this opportunity to engage in true adventure. Life exists in this space and you are experiencing much of it. Thank you for sharing.
Sam, thanks for taking us with you on your adventures. You give us armchair sailors and explorers a thrill. Adventure is out there! 🎉
Great video, really enjoy your adventures.
So courageous. Making the best out of your life, thats not given to everybody. Just recently saw the video about your health. Understand a little better now. Hope to met you once on the sea. Stay healthy Sam, what a story ...
Thanks Sam for this great video. Your natural unassuming presentation makes an engaging style.
Marvelous episode - what an adventure! You're a very brave soul with an obviously adventuresome spirit!! Thank you for taking me somewhere I would never go.
This was definitely one of his best videos so far. Love the unexpected
Wow amazing as always Sam. truly inspiring.
You're the man.
I am always watching vlogs Sam! This one is really really fantastic!!! Your such an advantures and free spirit!!! Thnx for sharing!!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Been watching for years, never commented. But wow! Best video you’ve put out. Love every one, this one is special. Happy voyage across the Atlantic! Following your track. Safe sailing.
Wow, awesome man, I think someone else in the comments said thanks for making travel like this look so non threatening, you make it look doable and rewarding. Thanks
Fair play Sam - a proper adventure - it’s what keeps your channel so interesting and engaging. Loved watching this and thanks
Thank you , Sam. I needed to watch this tonight. Safe travels!
You'll never have to prove your courage to me! Good show mate
INCREIBLE, absolutamente fantastico. El mejor canal de UA-cam.
Such a well edited quality video! Thank you for being so brave, so that I don’t have to!
One of my favorite videos yet. My home continent, and so glad you get to experience it.
Top quality viewing and narrative, I really enjoyed this. Thanks Sam. Pickled Herring is a little star. Thanks Sam, fair winds
I gotta say Sam, this video was epic brutha. Have always appreciated the uniqueness of your content, and sailing your own course.
Outstanding. Sam just gets better and better
Wow best episode yet and I have seen lots of them well done Sam glad you made it back safe and sound
Man you have guts ...awesome video ... and for sure no one ... else of the sailing channels i follow has done this...crazy man hats off to you and stunning as well.
Thank you thank you for this Gambia river trip. I lived in Senegal with my family for 10 years. I’ve visited Gambia two times. Enjoy the food and the wonderful people!
you are one brave dude , awesome video thank you sam
Sam, very nice, enjoyed a lot. Thanks for making it and sharing it.
I have been watching your videos for years and i have to say, that's the coolest passage of them all .... excellent !!!
Neil from Ireland.
Wow, thank you!
P.S I have been aboard Alans "Wave Rover II" which is moored in Malahide at the moment.Seen your name on the bulkhead,had achat about your exploits ....
fair play fella 👏
Keep her lit !!! @samholmessailing
Sam, you remind me of a modern day Tristan Jones. Your videos among people are as awesome as your sea journeys.
I love this episode, epic.
Sam, you passed a boat on the river called Poppy Cock, 45 foot steel boat, white with a dark blue stripe anchored by the side of the river with another boat. I recognized it as one that used to belong to a couple that used to be here. It was called Muirsgian before. I sent her a screenshot and sure enough it was their old boat. It’s a small world.
And apparently a lot of Tristan Jones stories were pretty much fiction. I remember him in Grenada in the 70s. He was an obnoxious little Welshman often drunk as a skunk and picking fights with charter captains. Hilarious.
David Livingstone?