I've heard on good authority that Leo has been commissioned by Nik and Richard to build a little speed boat to tow behind Project Binky after the Fastnet race has been completed. Bookmakers are giving poor odds that the speedboat will be completed before Binky is ready to receive its tow-hitch! 😁
It took 207 episodes to understand that Tally Ho will not just be a boat you take on a few weeks' adventure. In my simple mind, which never had anything to do with boats except for watching 207 episodes of Sampson Boat Co., she was like a floating RV. Today, I realized that she will become your home. When I heard that you think of your journey in terms of years, I understood what this beautiful boat truly means to you. That was somehow mind-blowing for me. I think that is a very close description of freedom.
Yeah Considering the current geopolitical situation going west would probably not be a wise move. From a quality of life standpoint, I would argue the north passage could be dicey. That’s a very long way That’s very cold and from what I understand, your crew is not extremely experienced. I’ve probably go around Capehorn in your position, but I ain’t no sailor. Whichever way you choose good luck and Fair-winds.
Tally Ho is a challenging rig to handle, especially in high northern and Southern latitudes. Moreover, an open cockpit leaves the helmsman seriously exposed to weather, which is frequently severe off Cape Horn and also Greenland. The Suez canal is out unless you have an in ith the Houthis, so sailing west means passage around Cape of Good Hope and managing security issues along East and West Africa. Bite the bullet and take the Panama Canal
If Leo is giving up the shop, I assume there were rental fees involved. The money saved would probably cover most of the fee to transit the Panama canal. Remember the palindrome " A man, a plan, a canal, Panama." Let that be you, Leo. ,
The way the poor old UK is being inundated daily with illegal migrants (with successive useless Governments having no idea who and what they are) - some of the Houthis (and worse) are there already!
I agree with your logic. Plus the Caribbean is something he's very familiar with over a long haul. The cost of the Canal is just something he must choke down, no other route seems more logical But I'm no sailor. It just seems (from long practical experience in other ways or means) he has little choice other than what he'll know best - this is Tally Ho's true maiden voyage, after all preceding sails are in effect merely shakedown cruises. Eliminate the variable in any vessel's first real voyage. ..other routes are too long, iffy or dangerous, all things considered. Be smart, 'take the road more taken,' over the "less taken" - leave that "for another day"; paraphrasing the famous poet Frost.
North and cape Horn- definitely not. Too dangerous, not to speak about the intense cold. Perhaps the Mexico land route? Too bad Asia is out, would have made an awesome series
Experience from Sweden: Before going through the north west passage with a wooden boat you would have to copper sheath at least the waterline on the forward half of the boat. Even a very thin layer of ice quickly destroys a wooden boat without copper sheathing.
@@j.r4985so they just make like the Space Shuttle with the ceramic ablative tiles! Hmmmmm 🤔 ceramic tiles eh? Could I be onto something here? 😏 HAHAHAHA! 🤣
Is the shape of Tally Ho's hull appropriate for Icy waters? Ships meant for Arctic exploration generally have fairly round hull designed to let ice slide beneath them if I recall correctly (for example the schooner Tara, or any icebreaker).
Leo, you know it's lovely to see you give back the oars better then you received them. I grew up and was taught the same thing. It has been the one thing That has allowed me to re-barrow or barrow other things with no issues. It's a wonderful quality to possess and build trust. Also when you need something you are sure to have friends who are there with a helping hand. I hope more take on that quality in life as it makes a huge difference at the end of the day.
Totally agree, always return things in at least the same or in better condition that you received such borrowed items. Best way to make and keep your friends, old and new.
Accurate. I was raised to respect equipment. 10 years in the military reinforced the adage, "Maintain your gear and it will last longer." That rule included anything you borrowed. Respect is a simple tool for your skill set, yet becoming rarer these days.
I hauled boats all over the U.S. in the late'70s (Boat Transit Inc., Costa Mesa, CA), most of which were overdimensional and needed permits, escort vehicles, and all the rest. That's how I stumbled onto the Tally Ho saga -- somehow the episode where the hull was moved from Sequim to Pt. Townsend showed up in my feed, and now I've watched every episode, twice. All of which is to say that I know something about trucking large sailboats across the country. If Tally Ho had a beam of 11', a draft of 6', 6' or so above the waterline to the top of the cabin and displaced maybe 25K lb., trucking her across the country (my vote would be to Duluth) could make sense. The northern states involved are quite friendly to overdimensional loads, and you wouldn't be burdened with many escort vehicles. Going to the East Coast, even with our hypothetical anorexic version of Tally Ho, becomes a nightmare with low bridges and other serious restrictions. However, Tally Ho has a beam of 12'10", a draft of 7'6", height above the waterline well in excess of 7' and a displacement on the order of 65K lb. A load of that size (particularly the height, I'd estimate at least 15') is going to require private escorts front and rear the whole way and possibly state police escorts part of the time as well, plus an 11+ axle truck combination that charges a minimum of $10/mile these days. It's a big, big deal, plus the hassle of unstepping the mast and packing it and all the other spars for shipping, possibly requiring a second truck. The Panama Canal would be a bargain in comparison, IMNHO.
Interesting, he'd only need to go halfway so. Precisely to Duluth, Minnesota. From there, the Great Lakes Waterway (GLW) starts. They should be able to travel the rest of the way to the Atlantic for 2,340 miles (3,770 km) on the water on the GLW, and bridge clearance is 54 meters/180 feet at the Duluth lifting bridge. So taken from that, they could sail (Lakes) and motor (River, Channels) their way comfortably to the Atlantic in a couple weeks. But I don't think trucking would be competitive price wise, even if the distance is cut in half ... basically.
I'm not a sailor Leo, but I have worked as a data scientist for many years. If you choose the Northwest passage, the National Ice Center may have details you will need to plan the trip. They have many years of seasonal data of the ice sheet and movement as well as forecast. May the wind be at your back! Good luck always.
Kids, please take note of Leo's example. When you borrow something/anything, you should work to return them in the same condition or better than when you receive them.
Adults may also want to pay attention. Im still learning this myself - I have borrowed some tools from my brother and been super lax about getting them back to him at all.
My vote is the more expensive, but more safe route through the Panama canal. Y'all got enough to worry about with makin it to that race! Plus it'll still be a beautiful voyage. You got plenty of time to take the more risky routes around the world.
I remember watching the maiden episode and thought, 'what is he doing? He isn't restoring, so much as building from scratch. Why would he buy that piece of junk?' Now, seeing the end result, it wasn't so much the finish line as the entire journey you took all of us on. Thanks to you and everyone who helped for creating a magnificent vessel.
To reach your destination with the least risk, you must choose the Panama Canal. You still need to be able to port should anything arise during this longer voyage. The last thing you need is to be in the NWP and have to turn back due to ice or other issue. I think coming through the Caribbean and up through the east coast of the US, you will get to show off your masterpiece where everyone who has followed your years long journey, might be able to see her with our very own eyes and gladly donate more funds into your coffers. I am in Kentucky and would gladly travel to the coast to see her, even from a distance. As a former joiner for San Juan Yachts out of Anacortes, I admire all the hard work you and your crew have accomplished. Save the NWP and other routes for future voyages after your race in 2027. Be safe in all you do. Tally Ho!
Whichever way you go Please take in consideration the parts of the world that pirates occupy and safe travels. I vote for Panama Canal because you will have many more years to take the more interesting routes when you have more time. Be safe out there.
I recommend the Panama Canal. More expensive.... But safer, as well as fastest !! Cape Horn, is a wet dream for many modern sailors. But oh so much more dangerous! The North West passage is also very debatable.... Considering all the ice problems that can arise. Don't put your lovely boat in front of these unnecessary dangers!! Been following your journey since the beginning. And it has been a fantastic journey! so impressed with your persistence, as well as growing knowledge. When it comes to basically..... Building a new boat. Best regards. Piero Mengarelli Stockholm Sweden. 👍😊
When I was in the US Navy, we sailed the northern route. However, we were in a submarine and went a fair bit further north than the Northwest Passage. In fact, we stopped at the North Pole. Then we continued on and came out of the polar ice between Iceland and Greenland. We had the luxury of sailing at cruising depth for the Los Angeles class submarine. We also did the passage in the winter and this is where it would most relevant for you Leo. Even at cruising depth of several hundred feet submerged, we were rolling very, very heavily from all the storm on the surface while transiting the Bering Strait. It was enough I wouldn't even want to try it in a much smaller surface vessel. Personally, my vote is either South or West. I just want to keep watching videos of all your adventures that a longer voyage would give. Call me spoiled by your outstanding Captaincy and the quality of your Crew.
Take the eastern Panama Canal route for this first major voyage. Safer and shorter. After exiting the Canal head north and a smidgen east to try to try to reach the open sea off of Florida while keeping the trade winds on the beam. I agree trying to beat through the Caribbean against the trade winds would be agonizing. Perhaps harbor hopping on the north coast of South America, but other risks exist there. If you get your Northing in, you could always go south to visit some of the Caribbean, but the priority should be to keep the trade winds on your beam. I think this would open up some options. As a British flagged vessel Cuba’s ports should be available if needed.
I vote for the Panama Canal burn diesel as needed . Play it SAFE. Hope you get your Gaff saddle and Capstain parts at least made before you take off on your winter cruise. Open cockpit and Caspe Horn could be asking for crew injury and illness I think.
Massive Massive appretiation for your excellence in boat building, skippering and video production Leo. Best channel, best crew, best projects. Bravo. Blessings
Cape Horn? You may bury the bow and never see it again. Northwest passage? ummm no. West through the Pacific? Well who doesn't want to see the islands in the South Pacific but you will never make it in time. Go there after. The Panama Canal is your only way home. I think you know that, and I think you resist it because it's the least romantic and most expensive. But c'mon Leo, it's the only way. Plus if you sail up the East Coast of the United States you will be greeted with a flotilla of supporters who will warm your heart and flood your coffers. Spring 2025 leave for Panama, Spring/Summer 2025 pass through the Panama Canal (make a huge deal of it!) Hole up in Rio Dulce until hurricane season is over. There are worse places to hang out. Winter 25/26 sail through the Caribbean (drink rum and wear funny hats). Spring 2026 up the East Coast; attend parties, bask in your celebrity. Then June cross the Atlantic from New York to the UK (you don't think you're leaving the US without sailing past the Statue of Liberty do you? Besides, every gaff rigged boat on the East Coast including mine will come to escort you in and out of New York Harbor. It will be a sight like no other). Arrive UK Autumn 2026 in time to ready the boat, sort out crew issues, train, and practice. Then August 2027 win the Dorade Cup and make history! And with that incredible jackyard topsail you built, the outrageously long boom, the oversized main, and those perfectly shaped headsails, how can you lose? You'll need to draw out your decision for a few more episodes to fuel the suspense, but this is the plan, this is the only feasible plan and you are ready!.
My guess is that he eventually settles on the North West Passage. He seems to like going north. Let's not forget that Vikings sailed great distances in far northern latitudes in wooden boats. It is far from impossible. Leo is someone who is not afraid of overcoming difficult challenges. Being from Britain, the chances are great that Leo has some Viking blood flowing in his veins. I think the idea of taking one of the safest, most civilised, most travelled routes offends and bores him a little. Tally Ho was not built to be a marina queen.
@@donthompson7889 That's a great point, he just might do that. And there's a side benefit which is highlighting the warming of the planet and depletion of the ice. He can put a lot of eyeballs on that.
The music and choreography you choose for your videos is so absolutely amazing. BRAVO and fair wings. Any boat builders are excited about you, and you have the attention for detail to pull it off.
I have watched this from day one, I need to thank you. For everything. Your attention to detail has inspired me to get back to my roots and has taught me so much. I look forward to seeing more. Thank you Leo and to all the others that have worked with you on this project. Cheers to a safe journey.
Leo, here's a trick (if you don't know about it) to clean the glass on the inside of a wood stove. Wipe the inside glass surface with a dampen a piece of paper towel covered with ash from the wood stove. 1) yes, it really is that simple and 2) it really, really works. Now I can say I've contributed to the Tally Ho.
I have two wood stoves , and it’s not glass it’s clear ceramic and you clean them with a paper towel and water , cold stove ! you can use hot water , sometimes I use a razor blade to get it real clean , also if you keep the temperature up the ( glass ) will stay cleaner .
My landlubber's take on the west route is that, if you're going along the Arabian Peninsula and through the Red Sea, it's probably something that is best avoided, given the current situation in Yemen. You'd also be quite close to the Somali coast during the run into the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, and Tally Ho is a comparatively slow, soft target with no ability to defend itself. Getting picked off by a drone or taken for ransom would be a really bad ending to your story.
This is exciting... Tally Ho heading to England. The question that comes up for me is WHO is going to be going with you? Perhaps that isn't clear at the moment, but I'd love to hear about your crew when you embark on this amazing adventure. Thanks for sharing your work with the oars... we need a bit of woodworking to sate the appetite that has been created by watching this channel. Always a treat watch a skilled craftsman working with wood.
Advantages of the Panama Canal/caribbean route: 1) you could stop by your old friend Andrew @ Woodstock Boatbuilders in Antigua and have full use of your old workshop before setting off across the Atlantic. 2) collect a free haulout for Tally Ho - for a fresh coat of antifoul. Just a thought! Best of luck Leo which ever way you choose.
I went through the Panama Canal last December on a small cruise ship and we shared a lock with a small sailboat about Tally Ho's size. The sailboat was damaged in the turbulence as the lock filled and it didn't seem like the lock dock workers offered much help when the sailboat needed it.
My advice is to take the shorter route, through the Panama Canal. Nothing will ruin a trip like having a tight schedule. Besides! There are lots of awesome places to explore along that route! Mexico, the Caribbean, US East Coast, Bermuda, the Azores... And if you're a year early, there is no shortage of cruising grounds in Europe! The atolls and Cape Horn will still be there after :) And there is something to be said for pacing yourself on the learning curve: If you start with Cape Horn you'll either have few other accomplishments left to get excited about, or you'll be traumatized if it doesn't go well. Cape Horn is not fun unless you truly are ready for it. I would hesitate to go into ice on a fibreglass vessel, and would not go at all on a wooden one. (I've sailed a fair bit on expeditions and deliveries and cruising, some 65'000 NM or so. I've only followed this channel on and off and don't know much about your level of experience, so take what I say with an appropriate amount of salt.)
Yes of course we want to see you try the NW passage or even battle south around the horn but time wise the only real option is The Panama Canal. Best of luck for which ever route you go!
👍👌👏 Oh WOW! The pair of new oars and the modified ones are simply great pieces of artwork like almost anything that has to do with Leo respectively Tally Ho. Congratulations! 🎉
Do not underestimate the dangers of time pressure. It can lead to silly mistakes and poor decisions. You have a great, but inexperienced crew, and you have a deadline to meet. These two factors alone should be enough to guide you towards taking the shortest, lowest-risk route. Once you have successfully made it to England, and raced Tally Ho, you will be in a far better position physically, mentally and geographically to take on more challenging routes.
Piracy is a significant international maritime issue; it's no joke. Even your Cape Horn route will expose you to some areas where piracy is a concern. I'm sure you'll do your homework on this.
Leo I did a delivery from Sharjah (UAE) around Saudia Arabia visiting Salalah (Omah) Dijibouti Yanbu (Mecca Saudi Arabia & Hurghada (Egypt) I didn't go through Suez. That part of the middle east was dangerous territory 44 years ago ( I was too stupid and dumb at the time to know) now I'd avoid it like the plague. I'm regularly in touch with a guy was born in Dartford Kent (UK) who's currently in Cape Verde on his 32' Vancouver. He's waiting on the weather for this season's crossing to the Caribbean. I'll drop him an email and introduce you to him. He's did a complete circumnavigation of the world in 2011..
@@johnmccarthy6451 In 1987 we sailed from the med to the Seychelles. We had the time of our life and it was no problem. The only bad thing was a european Cargovessel in the gulf of Aden which spilled a huge amount of oily bilgewater in the sea . That dirt landed on the Somali coast and l can understand somehow that the Somalis were pissed .
@@martinhoflich6150 Martin please see the current warning from the US Department of State. www.state.gov/houthi-sinking-of-merchant-ships-in-the-red-sea/. There have been 3 commercial ships that have been sunk in the Red sea in the past two years and sailors lives lost. So I'd recommend that @SampsonBoatCo (Leo) avoids going any where near the Red sea or surrounds. Sailing west from Washington State (Port Townsend) to the UK via Cape of Good Hope is a long trip. Geo-politics need to be taken into consideration.
I sailed the North West passage this year in september, there was no ice at all. yeah some icebergs in the labrador sea, but passage was clear. I think it is do-able in the Tally Ho. and will save you a lot of time compared to other routes.
@ December, August WTF difference does it make, that boat does not sport a reinforced bow, she has no business being in the Arctic Ocean at any time of the year
Leaving Torres Strait in August brought me comfortably to Europe in May the following year even with many stops in Madagascar, Brazil and the Caribbean. Plenty of time.
Just hearing that you're keeping your tools in storage makes me excited that you might take on yet another amazing (possibly larger) project in the future for me to religiously tune into to see the progress.
Leo, sorting the boatyard is your priority now, you got that. I was surprised by the choice of the pre-made blades until you stated they had been given to you, I'd of expected you would have made your ow otherwise. Sometimes having the skills takes us down the hard route, when rounding spars rig a pole lathe and let concentricity be your friend! The journey home, follow the trade routes, no need to fight the currents and winds my friend. I wish Tally Ho a fair sea and a following wind.
I am so spoiled to get to watch somebody exercise incredible care and skill to, so seemingly effortlessly, craft such beautiful oars. The craftsmanship on display for even (perhaps, "especially") the smaller details is inspiring.
My two-cents is to take the Panama Canal route. Cape Horn, the Northwest Passage, and the western route will all still be there after you get to and sail the Fastnet Race. Afterward, you wouldn't be rushed, and could take your time planning the other routes, and sail them at your leisure, perhaps with far more stops and sightseeing than you would have time for now. For such early innings in the boat, the Panama Canal route is plenty of adventure, and, with the sailing of the Fastnet Race, would afford you even more time to iron out any remaining kinks before possibly finding them at an inconvenient time on the Cape Horn or Northwest Passage routes.
From Brazil since your first videos. I have not words to say how much those touched me. My humble thank you so much. My vote Cape Horn, where Tally Ho could show the muscles, and seamanship. Nice and fair winds. My best wishes.
I love the mix of making and planning in this video. I envy your woodworking knowledge and skills, but I don't envy the huge decision you need to make. No suggestions form me, since each route, as you so clearly and succinctly explain, has such huge differences, advantages, and risks. And YOU are the one making this important voyage; your personal preferences are what count.
Sailing north for the winter is good idea Leo. After all, Tally Ho is a sailboat and needs to sail. The west coast in winter is a great place for crew and boat before the big sail to England. Best of luck.
Decision seems simple to me: first and foremost priority: celebrate Tally Ho's Centennial participation in the Fastnet Race. From there, the decision is which is safest (not necessarily shortest). All other sight-seeing options (not least, escaping pirates in the South Indian Ocean or political barriers into the Mediterranean) can be realized on subsequent voyages. GET TO THE STARTING LINE!! Great video as always. One of your seven year viewers.
Hi Leo, I would plump for the Panama canal route for two reasons, first if you get into trouble you have plenty of optional anchorages to lay up for repairs, and secondly with so many places to explore, you might come across another derelict which could become your next project. Good luck and fair winds, Mal.
West, around the Cape of Good Hope, not through the Suez. Then after you win the '27 Fastnet, you can go back to Port Townsend going around Cape Horn and Tally Ho will have finished a "Magellan Voyage" having circumvented the globe without using those modern canals. Trade winds will be with you almost all of the way.
Unfortunately the winds down south go the opposite wayaround the globe, ie from the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean around the Cape of Good Hope and the Pacific to the Atlantic around Cape Horn. That is why the old sailing ships used to travel from UK to Australia Via Cape of Good Hope returning via Cape Horn
The clipper route is way down south with the westerlies, but if you head back up to the tropics after cape horn you can do it with much better weather. This is also the route that joshua slocum did it.
I've crossed the Pacific four times and the Indian ocean twice. The Pacific through the Straight of Malacca into the Indian ocean is a very, very long way. My ship cruised at 16 knots. We turned around in Mombasa and not counting ports of call it took three months to get there.. There is a lot political instability in the NW Indian Ocean. That dictates a more southernly route with very few places to make a port of call. The North West Passage may sound veery romantic but the risks are high. The waters are not well charted and if you get into trouble there is very little hope of assistance. That pretty much leaves crossing from the Pacific to the Atlantic though a more southernly route. To get through the Panama Canal you could wind up waiting for several weeks and then you have to put up four Panamanian crew on your boat to help transit the canal. The other option is to go around South American. The Straight of Magellan is a much better option than Cape Horn. The straight has many ports and anchorages. I'm not a wind sailor but leveraging the spring, summer fall/spring summer seasons as you pass from the northern to southern hemispheres is appealing. You make your choices and you take your chances.
"Put up four Panamanians" to transit the canal? It can be done in a day with an early start. All you need is four competent crew and I am sure tally Ho will have those. Otherwise there are always plenty of sailors handy to help you though, easy stuff.
It was soo good watching you make something again. Everything you and your team make turns into a work of art! Even a waste bin. You are very rare to give something borrowed back in better condition than you were lent it.
The romantic says go for the Northern route. The pragmatist would go through the Panama canal. I'd avoid the Mediterranean as the geopolitical situation around the Straits of Hormuz and the Red Sea might be difficult. Cape of Good Hope might (maybe) be the better route and you would get to sail across the Pacific. I could be persuaded to join the crew!
i'm not too clued up on sailing routes so i'm struggling to understand where the straight of hormuz would feature on a path to the uk, and why an old wooden boat would have difficulty in the red sea
Not a blue water sailor here, but having followed blue water sailboat racing, I would say the east passage is the best for Tally Ho. As much as it would be poetic for Tally Ho to go around the Cape, that is a rough passage at any time and just a long slough getting there from the US Northwest. As you point out it is then a long slough back up and lets not forget getting through the doldrums. The west passage has its charms, but besides the length, the Geo-political environment adds some dangers outside of just sailing. The east passage may have some sailing challenges, but it is also some of the best opportunities to showcase Tally Ho. Instead of fighting the trades, swing up along the east coast of the US. Stopping at Annapolis would be a major way to have people see the boat and eventually you can cross the Atlantic after NYC. There is also a stop at Iceland long the way before you come to rest in the UK. Which you decide I will enjoy the voyage with y'all.
I’ve been from Vancouver bay down through the Panama Canal to the Caribbean when working as a musician on cruise ships a couple times in the 90s. Highly recommend it! Stop off at ports along California and the Mexican Riveara. San Francisco, San Pedro, Cozumel, Puerto Vallerta, Acupoloco, Zaragoza and Puntarenas before going through the canal. I see no other option. It’s safe and consistent… tons of great ports. We will help pay the cost through the canal. You’re going to have an amazing time! I envy you! ❤️🎺😊 Roam through the Caribbean and ride the Gulf Stream north to the prevailing westerlies. You can’t miss the fastenet race this way!
Hi Leo. Thanks for all your videos about restoring Tally Ho. You are the most skilled boatbuilder i've ever seen. If you are passing through Suez, please consider the risk of pirates around the horn of Africa. Kind regards from Ole from Denmark.
I took my 1940's red cedar 36' ex patrol boat into Pender Harbour and was coasting into an anchorage that had just a skim of ice (was rippling) doing maybe 1knot I leaned out the wheelhouse door to look at the waterline to my horror that little bit of ice was carving the waterline plank as if it was a chisel or plane, nice curly red cedar coming off. Hard astern and got away from the ice. Unless you are going to sheath the tender areas in gumwood or something very tough I would avoid the ice. Worked in the Beaufort Sea on five different occasions and have seen firsthand what the ice can do to steel icebreakers.
I've moved huge amounts of tools into storage from that side of the world and then onwards to the Old World. Buy cheap (black) residential wheelie bins from Canadian Tire, etc. 20 dollars each and they really help one guy move quite heavy loads easily. The tools are dry and safe, sealed up. Label the bins and itemize the contents. Makes unpacking a breeze. Peace.
Beautiful work on the oars! It was fun to see you using another of your skills, stitching that leather on. You should stop by Thetis Island on your next trip north. It's a gorgeous little Gulf island just off Chemainus on the east coast of Vancouver Island. It has two marinas, a summer farmer's market on Saturdays, a ferry over to Vancouver island 10x/day, a one-room school house still in use, the tallest and 3rd tallest Arbutus trees in Canada, and my father and his wife have a lovely little B&B on it, with several cats and numerous chickens. You'd find a warm welcome there. There's a number of liveaboard sailors that winter in Thetis's sheltered marinas. Wherever you go, I hope you have a wonderful time!
I suggest going around the Horn. Going west: Awesome, but you don't have time. Do that after the Fastnet. Going east: Not cool enough. Too many channels cover the area. Going north: Very cool, but a lottery. And a bit anachronistic for Tally Ho. Gong south. The route around the Horn is legendary. So definitely cool enough. If you want even more extremes you could take a route visiting Antarctica.
Alluring Arctic Sailing just rooked up in Greenland after doing the NWP this summer. Juho Karhu is probably happy to talk to you guys. His boat Lumi is aluminum and specially fitted for such efforts but I would reach out to him.
Not that I have any experience, but my vote would be to leave the Pacific crossing and all the beautiful islands off the coast of Asia for when you have time to enjoy it.
Man, if I had the choice between making the 100th Fastnet (one or two "good" videos) and the adventure of a lifetime, and maybe getting there in time or not, I know what i'd choose. LOL All these experts giving advice to a guy that has extensive experience cruising in high lattitudes and sailed a 26 foot wooden that he rebuilt across the Atantic, solo... I'm sure it's well meant, but wow, it all sounds like a conversation with my golfer father and his 2nd wife who can barely cope with setting out beyond the limits of the township in Ohio they live in.
The cape is a huge challenge. So much can go wrong. Save that for the future. Tally Ho is fully ready for a challenge, captain and crew as well, but walk before run. Oars are looking beautiful btw. :-)
having watched you from the start i feel privileged that i have seen you get to this point. i can only wish good things upon you and look forward to watching the many more videos to come.
I'm all for being pragmatic and safe, the adventurer in me screams for the Northwest Passage!! The Caribbean is cool and so is Asia but to me, it's not as cool as the Northern route. If given time, it would be awesome for Tally Ho to visit Iceland, maybe Greenland, and swing by the Faroe Islands.
How exciting was it when Leo said " I am going to put a lot of the tools into storage for the next project"!
Yes!! How exciting!
My thoughts exactly!
Yes, but probably ten years from now.
The next project is Taly ho II for me. i won the lotery 😂
I've heard on good authority that Leo has been commissioned by Nik and Richard to build a little speed boat to tow behind Project Binky after the Fastnet race has been completed. Bookmakers are giving poor odds that the speedboat will be completed before Binky is ready to receive its tow-hitch! 😁
It took 207 episodes to understand that Tally Ho will not just be a boat you take on a few weeks' adventure. In my simple mind, which never had anything to do with boats except for watching 207 episodes of Sampson Boat Co., she was like a floating RV. Today, I realized that she will become your home. When I heard that you think of your journey in terms of years, I understood what this beautiful boat truly means to you. That was somehow mind-blowing for me. I think that is a very close description of freedom.
Yeah Considering the current geopolitical situation going west would probably not be a wise move. From a quality of life standpoint, I would argue the north passage could be dicey. That’s a very long way That’s very cold and from what I understand, your crew is not extremely experienced. I’ve probably go around Capehorn in your position, but I ain’t no sailor. Whichever way you choose good luck and Fair-winds.
❤
"Wherever we want to go, we'll go. That's what a ship is, you know" -- Captain Jack Sparrow
"It's not a keel and a hull and a deck and sails. That's what a ship needs. But what a ship is, is freedom." - Captain Jack Sparrow
I relate to your post. Love this group of folks. Know nothing about boats 😂
Tally Ho is a challenging rig to handle, especially in high northern and Southern latitudes. Moreover, an open cockpit leaves the helmsman seriously exposed to weather, which is frequently severe off Cape Horn and also Greenland. The Suez canal is out unless you have an in ith the Houthis, so sailing west means passage around Cape of Good Hope and managing security issues along East and West Africa. Bite the bullet and take the Panama Canal
If Leo is giving up the shop, I assume there were rental fees involved. The money saved would probably cover most of the fee to transit the Panama canal. Remember the palindrome " A man, a plan, a canal, Panama." Let that be you, Leo.
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The way the poor old UK is being inundated daily with illegal migrants (with successive useless Governments having no idea who and what they are) - some of the Houthis (and worse) are there already!
Pretty much what I was thinking too.
I agree with your logic. Plus the Caribbean is something he's very familiar with over a long haul. The cost of the Canal is just something he must choke down, no other route seems more logical But I'm no sailor. It just seems (from long practical experience in other ways or means) he has little choice other than what he'll know best - this is Tally Ho's true maiden voyage, after all preceding sails are in effect merely shakedown cruises. Eliminate the variable in any vessel's first real voyage. ..other routes are too long, iffy or dangerous, all things considered. Be smart, 'take the road more taken,' over the "less taken" - leave that "for another day"; paraphrasing the famous poet Frost.
North and cape Horn- definitely not. Too dangerous, not to speak about the intense cold. Perhaps the Mexico land route? Too bad Asia is out, would have made an awesome series
Experience from Sweden: Before going through the north west passage with a wooden boat you would have to copper sheath at least the waterline on the forward half of the boat. Even a very thin layer of ice quickly destroys a wooden boat without copper sheathing.
They could superglue a lot of pennies on the hull, perchance
@@j.r4985so they just make like the Space Shuttle with the ceramic ablative tiles! Hmmmmm 🤔 ceramic tiles eh? Could I be onto something here? 😏 HAHAHAHA! 🤣
Is the shape of Tally Ho's hull appropriate for Icy waters? Ships meant for Arctic exploration generally have fairly round hull designed to let ice slide beneath them if I recall correctly (for example the schooner Tara, or any icebreaker).
once again I‘m in oar of your craftsmanship.
I had a row-locking good laughs
That Dad joke was hard two handle.
Leo, you know it's lovely to see you give back the oars better then you received them. I grew up and was taught the same thing. It has been the one thing That has allowed me to re-barrow or barrow other things with no issues. It's a wonderful quality to possess and build trust. Also when you need something you are sure to have friends who are there with a helping hand. I hope more take on that quality in life as it makes a huge difference at the end of the day.
Totally agree, always return things in at least the same or in better condition that you received such borrowed items. Best way to make and keep your friends, old and new.
Accurate.
I was raised to respect equipment. 10 years in the military reinforced the adage, "Maintain your gear and it will last longer."
That rule included anything you borrowed.
Respect is a simple tool for your skill set, yet becoming rarer these days.
Yup. I was waiting for the, "wanna borrow anything else?" lol
I hauled boats all over the U.S. in the late'70s (Boat Transit Inc., Costa Mesa, CA), most of which were overdimensional and needed permits, escort vehicles, and all the rest. That's how I stumbled onto the Tally Ho saga -- somehow the episode where the hull was moved from Sequim to Pt. Townsend showed up in my feed, and now I've watched every episode, twice. All of which is to say that I know something about trucking large sailboats across the country.
If Tally Ho had a beam of 11', a draft of 6', 6' or so above the waterline to the top of the cabin and displaced maybe 25K lb., trucking her across the country (my vote would be to Duluth) could make sense. The northern states involved are quite friendly to overdimensional loads, and you wouldn't be burdened with many escort vehicles. Going to the East Coast, even with our hypothetical anorexic version of Tally Ho, becomes a nightmare with low bridges and other serious restrictions.
However, Tally Ho has a beam of 12'10", a draft of 7'6", height above the waterline well in excess of 7' and a displacement on the order of 65K lb. A load of that size (particularly the height, I'd estimate at least 15') is going to require private escorts front and rear the whole way and possibly state police escorts part of the time as well, plus an 11+ axle truck combination that charges a minimum of $10/mile these days. It's a big, big deal, plus the hassle of unstepping the mast and packing it and all the other spars for shipping, possibly requiring a second truck.
The Panama Canal would be a bargain in comparison, IMNHO.
Interesting, he'd only need to go halfway so. Precisely to Duluth, Minnesota. From there, the Great Lakes Waterway (GLW) starts. They should be able to travel the rest of the way to the Atlantic for 2,340 miles (3,770 km) on the water on the GLW, and bridge clearance is 54 meters/180 feet at the Duluth lifting bridge. So taken from that, they could sail (Lakes) and motor (River, Channels) their way comfortably to the Atlantic in a couple weeks.
But I don't think trucking would be competitive price wise, even if the distance is cut in half ... basically.
Had not considered that option Steve. 3 days to derig a week to travel across to the Atlantic coast and 3 more days to rerig - there you go Leo!
Panama Canal and a tow across the Carib to Miami. In England in 5 months
This is why UA-cam is gold.
So much great information from people with real experience.
Mileage from Seattle to Duluth is around 1500 miles so transportation cost would be $15,000 assuming the $10 a mile fee is accurate.
I'm not a sailor Leo, but I have worked as a data scientist for many years. If you choose the Northwest passage, the National Ice Center may have details you will need to plan the trip. They have many years of seasonal data of the ice sheet and movement as well as forecast. May the wind be at your back! Good luck always.
Kids, please take note of Leo's example. When you borrow something/anything, you should work to return them in the same condition or better than when you receive them.
Adults may also want to pay attention. Im still learning this myself - I have borrowed some tools from my brother and been super lax about getting them back to him at all.
@@ridcully
Definitely adults.
I thought you were talking about Tally Ho back to the UK in better condition (although he did pay $1) ... until I got to the varnishing oars bit.
@@ridcully 🤣🤣
My vote is the more expensive, but more safe route through the Panama canal. Y'all got enough to worry about with makin it to that race! Plus it'll still be a beautiful voyage. You got plenty of time to take the more risky routes around the world.
You're just wanting to laugh at a Brit as he gets heatstroke when he gets that close to the equator in a boat without air-conditioning... LMAO...
I remember watching the maiden episode and thought, 'what is he doing? He isn't restoring, so much as building from scratch. Why would he buy that piece of junk?' Now, seeing the end result, it wasn't so much the finish line as the entire journey you took all of us on.
Thanks to you and everyone who helped for creating a magnificent vessel.
To reach your destination with the least risk, you must choose the Panama Canal. You still need to be able to port should anything arise during this longer voyage. The last thing you need is to be in the NWP and have to turn back due to ice or other issue. I think coming through the Caribbean and up through the east coast of the US, you will get to show off your masterpiece where everyone who has followed your years long journey, might be able to see her with our very own eyes and gladly donate more funds into your coffers. I am in Kentucky and would gladly travel to the coast to see her, even from a distance. As a former joiner for San Juan Yachts out of Anacortes, I admire all the hard work you and your crew have accomplished. Save the NWP and other routes for future voyages after your race in 2027. Be safe in all you do. Tally Ho!
Whichever way you go Please take in consideration the parts of the world that pirates occupy and safe travels. I vote for Panama Canal because you will have many more years to take the more interesting routes when you have more time. Be safe out there.
I recommend the Panama Canal. More expensive.... But safer, as well as fastest !!
Cape Horn, is a wet dream for many modern sailors. But oh so much more dangerous!
The North West passage is also very debatable.... Considering all the ice problems
that can arise.
Don't put your lovely boat in front of these unnecessary dangers!!
Been following your journey since the beginning. And it has been a fantastic journey!
so impressed with your persistence, as well as growing knowledge. When it comes to basically..... Building a new boat.
Best regards.
Piero Mengarelli
Stockholm
Sweden. 👍😊
When I was in the US Navy, we sailed the northern route. However, we were in a submarine and went a fair bit further north than the Northwest Passage. In fact, we stopped at the North Pole. Then we continued on and came out of the polar ice between Iceland and Greenland. We had the luxury of sailing at cruising depth for the Los Angeles class submarine. We also did the passage in the winter and this is where it would most relevant for you Leo. Even at cruising depth of several hundred feet submerged, we were rolling very, very heavily from all the storm on the surface while transiting the Bering Strait. It was enough I wouldn't even want to try it in a much smaller surface vessel. Personally, my vote is either South or West. I just want to keep watching videos of all your adventures that a longer voyage would give. Call me spoiled by your outstanding Captaincy and the quality of your Crew.
Take the eastern Panama Canal route for this first major voyage. Safer and shorter. After exiting the Canal head north and a smidgen east to try to try to reach the open sea off of Florida while keeping the trade winds on the beam. I agree trying to beat through the Caribbean against the trade winds would be agonizing. Perhaps harbor hopping on the north coast of South America, but other risks exist there. If you get your Northing in, you could always go south to visit some of the Caribbean, but the priority should be to keep the trade winds on your beam. I think this would open up some options. As a British flagged vessel Cuba’s ports should be available if needed.
I vote for the Panama Canal burn diesel as needed . Play it SAFE. Hope you get your Gaff saddle and Capstain parts at least made before you take off on your winter cruise. Open cockpit and Caspe Horn could be asking for crew injury and illness I think.
Massive Massive appretiation for your excellence in boat building, skippering and video production Leo. Best channel, best crew, best projects. Bravo. Blessings
Cape Horn? You may bury the bow and never see it again. Northwest passage? ummm no. West through the Pacific? Well who doesn't want to see the islands in the South Pacific but you will never make it in time. Go there after. The Panama Canal is your only way home. I think you know that, and I think you resist it because it's the least romantic and most expensive. But c'mon Leo, it's the only way. Plus if you sail up the East Coast of the United States you will be greeted with a flotilla of supporters who will warm your heart and flood your coffers. Spring 2025 leave for Panama, Spring/Summer 2025 pass through the Panama Canal (make a huge deal of it!) Hole up in Rio Dulce until hurricane season is over. There are worse places to hang out. Winter 25/26 sail through the Caribbean (drink rum and wear funny hats). Spring 2026 up the East Coast; attend parties, bask in your celebrity. Then June cross the Atlantic from New York to the UK (you don't think you're leaving the US without sailing past the Statue of Liberty do you? Besides, every gaff rigged boat on the East Coast including mine will come to escort you in and out of New York Harbor. It will be a sight like no other). Arrive UK Autumn 2026 in time to ready the boat, sort out crew issues, train, and practice. Then August 2027 win the Dorade Cup and make history! And with that incredible jackyard topsail you built, the outrageously long boom, the oversized main, and those perfectly shaped headsails, how can you lose? You'll need to draw out your decision for a few more episodes to fuel the suspense, but this is the plan, this is the only feasible plan and you are ready!.
The Panama canal is not that expensive for a boat this size. A lot cheaper than months and months sailing any of the 'long' ways
_HUSSAR!_
I add my vote for this one, too. I will drive down from Boston to see her sail off.
My guess is that he eventually settles on the North West Passage. He seems to like going north. Let's not forget that Vikings sailed great distances in far northern latitudes in wooden boats. It is far from impossible. Leo is someone who is not afraid of overcoming difficult challenges. Being from Britain, the chances are great that Leo has some Viking blood flowing in his veins. I think the idea of taking one of the safest, most civilised, most travelled routes offends and bores him a little. Tally Ho was not built to be a marina queen.
@@donthompson7889 That's a great point, he just might do that. And there's a side benefit which is highlighting the warming of the planet and depletion of the ice. He can put a lot of eyeballs on that.
The music and choreography you choose for your videos is so absolutely amazing. BRAVO and fair wings. Any boat builders are excited about you, and you have the attention for detail to pull it off.
I have watched this from day one, I need to thank you. For everything. Your attention to detail has inspired me to get back to my roots and has taught me so much. I look forward to seeing more. Thank you Leo and to all the others that have worked with you on this project. Cheers to a safe journey.
Man, knowing that literally YEARS of Tally Ho stuff awaits us is so friggin' exiting.
You need to talk to Juhu from the Alluring Arctic channel. They just did the Northwest passage with their aluminium boat.
Leo, here's a trick (if you don't know about it) to clean the glass on the inside of a wood stove. Wipe the inside glass surface with a dampen a piece of paper towel covered with ash from the wood stove. 1) yes, it really is that simple and 2) it really, really works. Now I can say I've contributed to the Tally Ho.
Preferably while cold - the stove not you. ')
Oh it works 😊
I have two wood stoves , and it’s not glass it’s clear ceramic and you clean them with a paper towel and water , cold stove ! you can use hot water , sometimes I use a razor blade to get it real clean , also if you keep the temperature up the ( glass ) will stay cleaner .
@@markchodroff250 would ceramic cooktop cleaner be a good option?
@@Symbolizer21 try using the wood ash first. Before anything else. Wood ash on a damp paper towel works great, just like the OP said.
It's hard to fathom what Leo and crew have accomplished. Even a small job like the oars demanded his detail and extraordinary skill.
To a guy who rowed 75 miles (I think it was) the quality of the oars is not a small consideration.
Oarsome!!😊
My landlubber's take on the west route is that, if you're going along the Arabian Peninsula and through the Red Sea, it's probably something that is best avoided, given the current situation in Yemen. You'd also be quite close to the Somali coast during the run into the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, and Tally Ho is a comparatively slow, soft target with no ability to defend itself. Getting picked off by a drone or taken for ransom would be a really bad ending to your story.
Most sailors go from Australia directly to South Africa and then to Brazil.
This is exciting... Tally Ho heading to England. The question that comes up for me is WHO is going to be going with you? Perhaps that isn't clear at the moment, but I'd love to hear about your crew when you embark on this amazing adventure. Thanks for sharing your work with the oars... we need a bit of woodworking to sate the appetite that has been created by watching this channel. Always a treat watch a skilled craftsman working with wood.
Advantages of the Panama Canal/caribbean route:
1) you could stop by your old friend Andrew @ Woodstock Boatbuilders in Antigua and have full use of your old workshop before setting off across the Atlantic.
2) collect a free haulout for Tally Ho - for a fresh coat of antifoul.
Just a thought!
Best of luck Leo which ever way you choose.
I went through the Panama Canal last December on a small cruise ship and we shared a lock with a small sailboat about Tally Ho's size. The sailboat was damaged in the turbulence as the lock filled and it didn't seem like the lock dock workers offered much help when the sailboat needed it.
My advice is to take the shorter route, through the Panama Canal.
Nothing will ruin a trip like having a tight schedule.
Besides! There are lots of awesome places to explore along that route! Mexico, the Caribbean, US East Coast, Bermuda, the Azores... And if you're a year early, there is no shortage of cruising grounds in Europe! The atolls and Cape Horn will still be there after :) And there is something to be said for pacing yourself on the learning curve: If you start with Cape Horn you'll either have few other accomplishments left to get excited about, or you'll be traumatized if it doesn't go well. Cape Horn is not fun unless you truly are ready for it.
I would hesitate to go into ice on a fibreglass vessel, and would not go at all on a wooden one.
(I've sailed a fair bit on expeditions and deliveries and cruising, some 65'000 NM or so. I've only followed this channel on and off and don't know much about your level of experience, so take what I say with an appropriate amount of salt.)
As its the boats first major journey i would choose the safest path, you have a lifetime of adventuring ahead of you, no need to rush into it.
Yes of course we want to see you try the NW passage or even battle south around the horn but time wise the only real option is The Panama Canal. Best of luck for which ever route you go!
I am so glad for finding this channel ❤
Better than you received - the story of Leo & Tally Ho. So great. And now we know that even oars can look impressive
👍👌👏 Oh WOW! The pair of new oars and the modified ones are simply great pieces of artwork like almost anything that has to do with Leo respectively Tally Ho. Congratulations! 🎉
Do not underestimate the dangers of time pressure. It can lead to silly mistakes and poor decisions.
You have a great, but inexperienced crew, and you have a deadline to meet. These two factors alone should be enough to guide you towards taking the shortest, lowest-risk route.
Once you have successfully made it to England, and raced Tally Ho, you will be in a far better position physically, mentally and geographically to take on more challenging routes.
OMG. Such exciting news. This trip is going to be so exciting!!
Now there’s a Man after my own heart: “… give them back in a better state than I received them. “
Well done, Leo. Makes me proud to be Bristolian 😁👍🏼
When planning your route, don't forget to take pirates into consideration. That probably sounds like a joke, but it's not.
I don't think Tally Ho carries enough to be of interest to pirates.
Piracy is a significant international maritime issue; it's no joke. Even your Cape Horn route will expose you to some areas where piracy is a concern. I'm sure you'll do your homework on this.
Leo I did a delivery from Sharjah (UAE) around Saudia Arabia visiting Salalah (Omah) Dijibouti Yanbu (Mecca Saudi Arabia & Hurghada (Egypt) I didn't go through Suez.
That part of the middle east was dangerous territory 44 years ago ( I was too stupid and dumb at the time to know) now I'd avoid it like the plague. I'm regularly in touch with a guy was born in Dartford Kent (UK) who's currently in Cape Verde on his 32' Vancouver. He's waiting on the weather for this season's crossing to the Caribbean. I'll drop him an email and introduce you to him. He's did a complete circumnavigation of the world in 2011..
@@johnmccarthy6451 In 1987 we sailed from the med to the Seychelles. We had the time of our life and it was no problem. The only bad thing was a european Cargovessel in the gulf of Aden which spilled a huge amount of oily bilgewater in the sea . That dirt landed on the Somali coast and l can understand somehow that the Somalis were pissed .
@@martinhoflich6150 Martin please see the current warning from the US Department of State. www.state.gov/houthi-sinking-of-merchant-ships-in-the-red-sea/. There have been 3 commercial ships that have been sunk in the Red sea in the past two years and sailors lives lost. So I'd recommend that @SampsonBoatCo (Leo) avoids going any where near the Red sea or surrounds. Sailing west from Washington State (Port Townsend) to the UK via Cape of Good Hope is a long trip. Geo-politics need to be taken into consideration.
I sailed the North West passage this year in september, there was no ice at all. yeah some icebergs in the labrador sea, but passage was clear. I think it is do-able in the Tally Ho. and will save you a lot of time compared to other routes.
@@Jacob-W-5570
So, what happens when she’s frozen in, in late December? They’ll end up like Franklin in the wrong direction
@@scomo532Well, I think the idea would be to make darn sure they are not there in December.
@ December, August WTF difference does it make, that boat does not sport a reinforced bow, she has no business being in the Arctic Ocean at any time of the year
@scomo532 if you don't know what you're talking about, then it is better to don't comment. You make yourself look like an idiot.
@@scomo532 If you don't know what you are talking about, better not reply. You are making your self look stupid.
Leaving Torres Strait in August brought me comfortably to Europe in May the following year even with many stops in Madagascar, Brazil and the Caribbean. Plenty of time.
According to the internet a kip is 1000 pounds. I try to learn a new thing every day. You just took care of that for me.
Now someone needs to convert the imperial (kips) to thr metric (Newtons) :)
@@pma7675 That can be tomorrows lesson.
"kips" (actually kpsi) are Kilo Pounds per Square Inch, or a thousand psi. It's used as a unit for pressure, stress, strength, etc.
Just hearing that you're keeping your tools in storage makes me excited that you might take on yet another amazing (possibly larger) project in the future for me to religiously tune into to see the progress.
Leo, sorting the boatyard is your priority now, you got that. I was surprised by the choice of the pre-made blades until you stated they had been given to you, I'd of expected you would have made your ow otherwise. Sometimes having the skills takes us down the hard route, when rounding spars rig a pole lathe and let concentricity be your friend! The journey home, follow the trade routes, no need to fight the currents and winds my friend. I wish Tally Ho a fair sea and a following wind.
I am so spoiled to get to watch somebody exercise incredible care and skill to, so seemingly effortlessly, craft such beautiful oars. The craftsmanship on display for even (perhaps, "especially") the smaller details is inspiring.
My two-cents is to take the Panama Canal route. Cape Horn, the Northwest Passage, and the western route will all still be there after you get to and sail the Fastnet Race. Afterward, you wouldn't be rushed, and could take your time planning the other routes, and sail them at your leisure, perhaps with far more stops and sightseeing than you would have time for now. For such early innings in the boat, the Panama Canal route is plenty of adventure, and, with the sailing of the Fastnet Race, would afford you even more time to iron out any remaining kinks before possibly finding them at an inconvenient time on the Cape Horn or Northwest Passage routes.
Panama is the quickest safest route.
Against the trade winds ? I'd look into trucking. There's a few comments going that way...
Как же я РАД ЗА ВАС!!!!
ВЫ СЧАСТЛИВЫЙ И СВОБОДНЫЙ ЧЕЛОВЕК!!!!🤝🤝🤝
Thanks for letting me tag along on the adventures of Leo and crew, it’s been quite the adventure so far !
IMHO, there's nothing wrong with living Vicariously through his Journey. Besides, think of all the money we saved.........and didn't get seasick.
Panama Canal and plenty of episodes in the Caribbean! That’s what I look forward to
From Brazil since your first videos. I have not words to say how much those touched me. My humble thank you so much. My vote Cape Horn, where Tally Ho could show the muscles, and seamanship. Nice and fair winds. My best wishes.
I love the mix of making and planning in this video. I envy your woodworking knowledge and skills, but I don't envy the huge decision you need to make. No suggestions form me, since each route, as you so clearly and succinctly explain, has such huge differences, advantages, and risks. And YOU are the one making this important voyage; your personal preferences are what count.
Happy Saturday Sampson Boat Co.!😊
Sailing north for the winter is good idea Leo. After all, Tally Ho is a sailboat and needs to sail. The west coast in winter is a great place for crew and boat before the big sail to England. Best of luck.
Decision seems simple to me: first and foremost priority: celebrate Tally Ho's Centennial participation in the Fastnet Race. From there, the decision is which is safest (not necessarily shortest). All other sight-seeing options (not least, escaping pirates in the South Indian Ocean or political barriers into the Mediterranean) can be realized on subsequent voyages. GET TO THE STARTING LINE!! Great video as always. One of your seven year viewers.
All the different skills required to build/maintain a boat. Amazing. Thank you.
You might contact Juho of Alluring Arctic, as he just finished the NW passage, and knows the Northern Atlantic fairly well
Hi Leo, I would plump for the Panama canal route for two reasons, first if you get into trouble you have plenty of optional anchorages to lay up for repairs, and secondly with so many places to explore, you might come across another derelict which could become your next project. Good luck and fair winds, Mal.
West, around the Cape of Good Hope, not through the Suez. Then after you win the '27 Fastnet, you can go back to Port Townsend going around Cape Horn and Tally Ho will have finished a "Magellan Voyage" having circumvented the globe without using those modern canals. Trade winds will be with you almost all of the way.
this would be an amazing adventure.
Unfortunately the winds down south go the opposite wayaround the globe, ie from the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean around the Cape of Good Hope and the Pacific to the Atlantic around Cape Horn. That is why the old sailing ships used to travel from UK to Australia Via Cape of Good Hope returning via Cape Horn
The clipper route is way down south with the westerlies, but if you head back up to the tropics after cape horn you can do it with much better weather. This is also the route that joshua slocum did it.
Seeing you cross the Northwest Passage would be incredible.
I've crossed the Pacific four times and the Indian ocean twice. The Pacific through the Straight of Malacca into the Indian ocean is a very, very long way. My ship cruised at 16 knots. We turned around in Mombasa and not counting ports of call it took three months to get there.. There is a lot political instability in the NW Indian Ocean. That dictates a more southernly route with very few places to make a port of call. The North West Passage may sound veery romantic but the risks are high. The waters are not well charted and if you get into trouble there is very little hope of assistance. That pretty much leaves crossing from the Pacific to the Atlantic though a more southernly route. To get through the Panama Canal you could wind up waiting for several weeks and then you have to put up four Panamanian crew on your boat to help transit the canal. The other option is to go around South American. The Straight of Magellan is a much better option than Cape Horn. The straight has many ports and anchorages. I'm not a wind sailor but leveraging the spring, summer fall/spring summer seasons as you pass from the northern to southern hemispheres is appealing. You make your choices and you take your chances.
"Put up four Panamanians" to transit the canal? It can be done in a day with an early start. All you need is four competent crew and I am sure tally Ho will have those. Otherwise there are always plenty of sailors handy to help you though, easy stuff.
It was soo good watching you make something again. Everything you and your team make turns into a work of art! Even a waste bin. You are very rare to give something borrowed back in better condition than you were lent it.
Since I am not a sailor, all I'll say is that each of those routes sound like absolutely EPIC adventures.
I really appreciate your thoughts while making plans, it really brings us with you and invests in it your next step! Beautiful oars!
The romantic says go for the Northern route. The pragmatist would go through the Panama canal. I'd avoid the Mediterranean as the geopolitical situation around the Straits of Hormuz and the Red Sea might be difficult. Cape of Good Hope might (maybe) be the better route and you would get to sail across the Pacific. I could be persuaded to join the crew!
i'm not too clued up on sailing routes so i'm struggling to understand where the straight of hormuz would feature on a path to the uk, and why an old wooden boat would have difficulty in the red sea
I'd hate to see Tally ho and her crew fall victim to Houthi and the Blowfish.
@@cliveramsbotty6077 Wooden boats are vulnerable to missiles.
Red Sea = armed pirates
Also neither would be on a route to UK
This was real nice to see you make theoars and build that fire. I like that you keep letting us know your travels
Not a blue water sailor here, but having followed blue water sailboat racing, I would say the east passage is the best for Tally Ho. As much as it would be poetic for Tally Ho to go around the Cape, that is a rough passage at any time and just a long slough getting there from the US Northwest. As you point out it is then a long slough back up and lets not forget getting through the doldrums.
The west passage has its charms, but besides the length, the Geo-political environment adds some dangers outside of just sailing.
The east passage may have some sailing challenges, but it is also some of the best opportunities to showcase Tally Ho. Instead of fighting the trades, swing up along the east coast of the US. Stopping at Annapolis would be a major way to have people see the boat and eventually you can cross the Atlantic after NYC. There is also a stop at Iceland long the way before you come to rest in the UK.
Which you decide I will enjoy the voyage with y'all.
Always a pleasure to follow your progress and plans for the future. Thanks so much for bringing us all along!
I’ve been from Vancouver bay down through the Panama Canal to the Caribbean when working as a musician on cruise ships a couple times in the 90s. Highly recommend it! Stop off at ports along California and the Mexican Riveara. San Francisco, San Pedro, Cozumel, Puerto Vallerta, Acupoloco, Zaragoza and Puntarenas before going through the canal. I see no other option. It’s safe and consistent… tons of great ports.
We will help pay the cost through the canal. You’re going to have an amazing time! I envy you! ❤️🎺😊 Roam through the Caribbean and ride the Gulf Stream north to the prevailing westerlies. You can’t miss the fastenet race this way!
Thank you for all the hard work in making these excellent videos.
Your craftmanship / quality of work is worth admiring and Tally Ho is a perfect proof of that - including the oars for your dinghy 😉
The NWP would be a amazing voyage to watch!
Well, the excitement is palpable. And it's so satisfying to see you working the tools without (I think) the pressure of getting projects completed.
So pumped for this. You have done all this work so well, it’s great to see it paying off.
Glad to hear your heading North. Good luck!
Hi Leo.
Thanks for all your videos about restoring Tally Ho. You are the most skilled boatbuilder i've ever seen.
If you are passing through Suez, please consider the risk of pirates around the horn of Africa. Kind regards from Ole from Denmark.
I took my 1940's red cedar 36' ex patrol boat into Pender Harbour and was coasting into an anchorage that had just a skim of ice (was rippling) doing maybe 1knot I leaned out the wheelhouse door to look at the waterline to my horror that little bit of ice was carving the waterline plank as if it was a chisel or plane, nice curly red cedar coming off. Hard astern and got away from the ice.
Unless you are going to sheath the tender areas in gumwood or something very tough I would avoid the ice. Worked in the Beaufort Sea on five different occasions and have seen firsthand what the ice can do to steel icebreakers.
Best of both worlds: sail straight through the middle. 👍
I vote Cape Horn!
The oars are Awesome. You're a lovely man returning your friends oars in even better condition. I'm excited for more planning and adventures.
I've moved huge amounts of tools into storage from that side of the world and then onwards to the Old World. Buy cheap (black) residential wheelie bins from Canadian Tire, etc. 20 dollars each and they really help one guy move quite heavy loads easily. The tools are dry and safe, sealed up. Label the bins and itemize the contents. Makes unpacking a breeze. Peace.
What an amazing journey it has been watching from the first video. I'm onboard for life. Thank you for sharing your vision bringing us along.
Patrick is always a welcome treat in every video.
Beautiful work on the oars! It was fun to see you using another of your skills, stitching that leather on.
You should stop by Thetis Island on your next trip north. It's a gorgeous little Gulf island just off Chemainus on the east coast of Vancouver Island. It has two marinas, a summer farmer's market on Saturdays, a ferry over to Vancouver island 10x/day, a one-room school house still in use, the tallest and 3rd tallest Arbutus trees in Canada, and my father and his wife have a lovely little B&B on it, with several cats and numerous chickens. You'd find a warm welcome there. There's a number of liveaboard sailors that winter in Thetis's sheltered marinas.
Wherever you go, I hope you have a wonderful time!
Phenomenal video. My vote is for Cape Horn. Thank you for sharing!
The folding tri looks amazing !
Leo, go the route that develooes you n your crew the skills n experience that benifits or matches the up coming race!
talented man leo as is your crew wish you all the best when you set sail ,i enjoy all your videos and all your humour from you all
Great trick, clamping stops alongside the backsaw, to control depth of cut. And, bravo Tally Ho as always!,
Which way to go, always a consideration. Thank you Leo.
I suggest going around the Horn.
Going west: Awesome, but you don't have time. Do that after the Fastnet.
Going east: Not cool enough. Too many channels cover the area.
Going north: Very cool, but a lottery. And a bit anachronistic for Tally Ho.
Gong south. The route around the Horn is legendary. So definitely cool enough. If you want even more extremes you could take a route visiting Antarctica.
They won't her get close to the ice wall. ;)
Thank you and your team for great content. You make my life better.
Alluring Arctic Sailing just rooked up in Greenland after doing the NWP this summer. Juho Karhu is probably happy to talk to you guys. His boat Lumi is aluminum and specially fitted for such efforts but I would reach out to him.
There is only One Sampson 😊
Beautiful Art Kaptain ❤
Not that I have any experience, but my vote would be to leave the Pacific crossing and all the beautiful islands off the coast of Asia for when you have time to enjoy it.
Man, if I had the choice between making the 100th Fastnet (one or two "good" videos) and the adventure of a lifetime, and maybe getting there in time or not, I know what i'd choose. LOL
All these experts giving advice to a guy that has extensive experience cruising in high lattitudes and sailed a 26 foot wooden that he rebuilt across the Atantic, solo...
I'm sure it's well meant, but wow, it all sounds like a conversation with my golfer father and his 2nd wife who can barely cope with setting out beyond the limits of the township in Ohio they live in.
Either one will be equally exciting for spectators.
The cape is a huge challenge. So much can go wrong. Save that for the future.
Tally Ho is fully ready for a challenge, captain and crew as well, but walk before run.
Oars are looking beautiful btw. :-)
I do believe a Cape Horn passage would be more in keeping with British history and navigation method's : )
having watched you from the start i feel privileged that i have seen you get to this point. i can only wish good things upon you and look forward to watching the many more videos to come.
I'm all for being pragmatic and safe, the adventurer in me screams for the Northwest Passage!! The Caribbean is cool and so is Asia but to me, it's not as cool as the Northern route. If given time, it would be awesome for Tally Ho to visit Iceland, maybe Greenland, and swing by the Faroe Islands.