Blossom Valley is just...totally amazing Mark! You and Fiona have created something very very special. Gosh, the work must be incredible! Thank you so much for sharing it with us. On Fiona pulling back, I've been coastal boating on first an express cruiser, and now on a trawler on the Atlantic coast for a total of 25 years, with two wives, and in my experience, boating is mostly a man's long term joy. For me it's meant carefully throttling the boating time to include my spouse when she wants to be on the boat, and then spending solo, or with friends, time on the boat at times that my wife and I agree upon. It's worked well for me, and I am very happy with it. I'm sure things will work out for you. Good luck, and I look forward to your next adventures.
Thanks for inviting us down to the gardens guys! I was speechless at the beauty of your garden wonderland! It looked spectacular in both the daylight and at night! Absolutely stunning and great to see your son’s contributions too, they both have your talents for garden design! Well done Chris and Sam, keep up the great work! ❤
Blossom Valley is absolutely breathtaking! What a beautiful homestead you have created. Though you and Fiona have made some changes to your initial plans the adventure for both of you still lies ahead and will just take some different twists and turns….it’s called living your lives as the two of you see fit for yourselves. I look forward to the next chapter of AwanuiNZ and wish you both well and happy no matter where you are. You are very special folks!❤️
Mark and Fiona- we have been following you since you picked up your beautiful home on the water! ❤. Karsten and I (Deb) are going to Anacordes, Wa. Next week to review and make an offer on A Norhavn 64 ft boat. Like you we do not have experience with a boat, but both of us have been dreaming since we were children about owning a yacht and traveling the world! You are courageous- both of you! Your adventures have softened any fears of concern and strengthened our resolve to forge ahead and offer and LIVE! We watched your latest video and realize the news! 😮. If you have any desire for company, Karsten would love to fly wherever you are to assist you in your months alone and plans to boat home to NZ - just let us know! We have spoken to James Leishman and we spoke about you and we have viewed every video you have created! Even writing this message seems strange - not asking for anything, we have done our research and lack experience. Willing to meet you anywhere either in our boat or to offer our (Karsten) assistance in your travels without Fiona Best wishes and hope you respond, Karsten and Deb
Karsten and Deb - congratulations on your decision and hope everything works out in Anacortes next week! I hope that you will also be documenting your journey on UA-cam. I too, am looking to get more experience and eventually buy a Nordhavn. If you find that you could use an extra set of hands on board, please keep me in mind. I am willing to meet up anywhere. Ron
Really can’t wait for you to get back to the boat, I’ve been a fan of Nordhavn ever since the 46 and would love to have one. We had a Erickson 38 sail boat we sailed out of San Francisco for a few years and love boating. Now as an old man man sail boats are too much work. Your home is fantastic, but the 51 is my dream.. your videos and editing are some of the best I’ve ever seen, please just keep it up. All the best Chuck
Thanks for sharing your journey with the world. My wife and I have just bought a trawler yacht and will be living on her in Italy and cruising around the Med. Your adventures are incredibly inspiring!
You have created something absolutely magnificent. The scents must be amazing and I can imagine why people want to come and see this. Pity it is not really the temperatures like you are now accustomed to, but understand why you wanted to be there. If we ever make it to New Zealand we will come and visit when it is the time of the cherry blossom. Absolutely amazing 👍 The marina in Tunesia looks great and professional, your boat will be absolutely fine there. Do you have a fuel polisher installed on your boat ? If not, you may want to think about adding that, you never know if the fuel is really clean when you pump it into the boat. We run our fuel polisher quite often, just to make sure we get no algae in the tanks. Don't know if you already do it, but you may want to start thinking about adding diesel additives to keep the diesel bug out of your tanks. Your tanks are still clean, definitely want to keep it that way. As for the interior, at the moment not an issue, but when you move into colder areas you may want to think about buying one or two dehumidifiers. We have them running all winter long when we are not onboard (one in the salon, galley pilot house area and one in the cabin area), they keep the moisture out, but they keep the mold and thus the smell out of the boat. Cost about 150 euro a piece, but worth every penny. Another item are your fridges and freezers. We found out that switching them off results many times in gas leakages and thus non functioning equipment. So now we leave them on during the winter, at min temp settings. It prevents aluminum pipes and seals becoming poreus. It does cost some money in electricity, but having to exchange your fridges is more expensive. Not surprised to hear the change in the crew in the winter time. Boat life is something which is not for everyone and winter time is definitely a different story. Handling the boat single handed is possible, but am not sure you would want to do that when you go from Portugal to the UK. Seas can be absolutely horrendous or even flat out dangerous, the gulf of Biscay is the most lethal one in Europe. Problem is that the weather can change so fast you will not be able to get out of the way. Perhaps putting Awanui on a merchant ship from Portugal to the UK and then pick her up again in the UK is an option ? Anyway, we wish you many beautiful days with the blossoming cherry trees. you truly created something special. Was it is vision back then or do you just like gardening ?😀
You have a beautiful property there Captain and a Nordhavn, what else could you want other than the health to enjoy it. An Irish blessing to you and your family, enjoy it.
It's no secret, that it is the sailing that I find fascinating, but this episode, and seeing blossom Valley again - I must say it is absolutely gorgeous ...! And it was initially funny when you - tried - to reveal the breaking news, how you could argue as to who says what and how - the Breaking news itself.... was making me pause a bit.... and then realizing what a truly great couple you two are.... the depth of you two - your relationship ... wow.... Looking so much forward to continue following your channel...
Thanks so much…..big moment for us and never rehearsed so don’t know quite what is going to be recorded. Next episode I am so scared of but not much I can do about it
@@AwanuiNZ I understand the scare..... But if you give it time - I think you will come to terms.... and considering Fiona's analysis ...hmm... and you yourself are allowed to alter plans as well - if her "objections" are to much for you... but no matter what, I am left with a feeling that it is all coming from the love between you two..
Mark and Fiona thank you for the great journey over the past months its been amazing also your gardens are beautiful now looking forward to the next adventure with you. Sorry to hear Fiona won't be with you Mark good luck to you both.
Wow.. blown away by your gardens.. what a place to have! Sorry about Fiona, but I relate.. I don't own a yacht because my wife isn't interested.. In my youth, I would have volunteered to be your 2nd mate on your voyage... but alas, at 76, not as spry as I used to be. Wish you the best, and love your videos... ( And your boat! )
Mark and Fiona once again thank you so much for another tour of the Gardens. Such a remarkably beautiful place. Sorry to hear Fiona will not be with you Mark for the full trip. However our family saying is "Do the Best You Can With What You Have Where You AT". Be safe on your trip back to Awanui NZ and we look forward to joining you on more of your adventures.
Awesome property, thanks for sharing with us. Fiona leaving the boat intermittently is a shame , but I can totally relate to her reasons. Mark , she is not gone and both of you will be fine. Looking forward to what the future brings
WOW WOW WOW Blossom Valley is spectacular! The cherry trees are luscious and lovely and the ancillary planting is pretty as well. Fabulous night lighting too. Looks like rhododendrons are happy in New Zealand. Saw a quick glimpse of what looked like a pleasing formal garden with clipped hedges. The grounds must take an immense amount of maintenance. Congratulations on your wonderful gardens. Fiona certainly gave cruising her best, but being onboard a small ship, away from family and home for extended periods is not for everyone. All the viewers will miss her quick wit and good nature very much, but kudos for her to strike a balance in her life that works for her.
Mark, us faithful followers will be journeying with you for support. Fiona, with your being a mother and grandmother, I can certainly see that being with the family will be a priority for you. I do so wish you the best of times. What a gift the both of you have given the region with this amazing garden. Loved the tour, the night time especially. Cheers. PS Mark, I hope you’re sitting down when Fiona tells you the numbers. This will be interesting, and especially helpful for anyone looking at a new boat.
Mark & Fiona, WOW! What a beautiful home/property you have created for yourselves in New Zealand and to share it with others to enjoy. Wishing you safe travels when you’re traveling without Fiona. Looking forward to more of your adventures. Best Wishes.
Blossom valley is amazing, thank you for showing us your beautiful place. Wow, definitely breaking news, totally understandable about missing the family. Will be tough on your own, but you’ve got great mates, and you will be fine on your own. Fiona will be back before you know it. All the best 🏴🥃
Darn, I was looking for that solar update. Oh, well, I love your property; absolutely beautiful. The Breaking News was a shock because Fiona is a big part of the channel, but we now you can do it. Perhaps planning to go home over a three year period is too long. At any rate, be safe and have fun.
Maybe its an opportunity to get crew from the Nordy site - either dreamers or people on a waiting list for a Nordy, to help crew and keep your chin up on those long stretches ? Must be people wanting that chance, and be a great way to share your knowledge while Awanui finds her way home or to a new home
Wow wow wow Fiona and Mark that was a stunning reveal i know youve mentioned Blossom Valley but that small film of it was so dream like my emotion got the better of me. Spectacular, Breathtakingly Beautiful. Your a man of Land, Sea and Air and very sucsessful well done my friend 😂
Blossom valley is amazing ! Someday my wife and I will hopefully travel to New Zealand and see it for ourselves , your videos are so inspiring , thank you .
Great summary. Wally and Jen shared some of their experiences and clearly loved every minute and have so much admiration for two. What a super adventure. The breaking news seems to make sense in such a big kaupapa Mark.
Yip thanks David. So pleased they enjoyed it. As I said the next visit will be pure relaxation. It was so nice to see them spend a whole month together
Amazing garden, lots of planning and work done to make it so beautiful. On my next trip to NZ, I'll make sure to pay a visit. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us all, truly appreciated. 🙂👍from🇨🇦
I don't even know what to say after following you from the beginning. I absolutely LOVE your garden. I am not stunned by your decision to continue with your yachting. I think it is much easier for older couples than it would have been when you were younger especially with all the technology for you to stay in touch. Still, I will miss Fiona keeping you in check while aboard Awanui NZ.
So so beautiful is your home! Thought I’d share, My lil 4yr old grandson who lives in Tokyo has been attending drumming lessons since he was 3. He is an amazing talent! The local summer street festivals are magic with lots of drummers with traditional dancing by all in kimonos or not, etc. I’ll show him this clip of Blossom Valley drumming under the cherry blossoms. He’ll love it! Blossoms are seen every yr from his apartment. Congratulations, You’ve both made a stunning oasis of beauty! (By the way, Our lil guy was born at 24 weeks Gest, he’s a lil wonder to behold) Cheers from us 🍍🐨 ps, I felt teary too!
Nooooo say its not so First abbott and costello then martin and lewis now Mark and Fiona I cant handle this We need our Fiona I do like blossom valley though Adding it to my bucket list If you need some help Mark love to give you a hand on any of your trips
my mother came from down there, (Pahiatua) so I know the area of your garden thank you for the tour daylight and night the history , hearing the news sad but hey you will be fine and the adventures you will make thanks once again
Hi Mate, Blossom Valley looks amazing, you both have done an amazing job on the gardens. Mark, I'm sending you some fishing lures this week to Blossom Valley for your next trip. Like to see you catch your own fish 🐟
Hey thanks so much it was great to see you guys and really appreciate the time you took to come up. Wish we had more time just so busy. Leave for Tunisia two weeks Sunday
That trip from Gibraltar to the Uk will test you, the Portuguese coast has some very dangerous areas and then Biscay need to get your weather right and think about increasing your cruise speed for some of those legs to not be so exposed for more time than necessary, I’ve done it many times so I speak from experience.
Hi Mark , lovely garden, looks amazing, sad to hear about Fiona , but get it , can I suggest something, why don’t you both come back to NZ for 4-5 months at a time , leave the boat then both go back to sail again, the trip will take longer ( so we will get videos for longer ) best to you both , and thanks for taking us on your journey 👍
I grew up in wellington(wainuiomarta,lower hut,stokes valley)& the weather was very cold wet windy, white frost covered the grass & had to pour hot water on the car windows to get the ice off,long wet & cold winters,not a good place to live
Good on ya mate, I'm sure there will be lots of your NZ retired mates that would relish the chance to crew for you on those longer trips for a few weeks as you move around Europe. You also have all the technology on Arwanui at your fingertips to make singlehanded cruising a doddle.
That looks so nice . . . What a special place . . . Great wedding venue . . Was thinking . In the future you mite look at doing a drone light show one night . . . Till next time . Take care . 👍👋🇳🇿🍻twa
Mark, i I thought you was going to say you was going to order a 60 or a 63! I have a De alm Delfino 64 trawler in south Holland heading to Scandinavia next summer if you’re heading in that direction!
OMG!! Mark's enthusiasm without Fiona's steading influence and sage advice. Should be interesting times ahead for Mark. I can understand Fiona's decision however. What a magic place you two have developed in Blossom Valley NZ. Also, kids and grandkids at Christmas time are memories that just have to be made and treasured forever. Cruising the Med can wait for awhile:)
Ok so lets break this down for me. 1. The Blossom Valley part, you know when people say it was draw dropping, well I have only experienced that maybe 3 times in my life, where you just sit there with your mouth open unable to move. That was the blossom valley part for me, just incredible! 2. Mark, your love for Fiona is magical., I watched the way you looked her and was holding back your tears when she explained about spending time with the grandkids, while you held your tears back, I did not, this was a magical moment. 3. Finally, thanks for a small glimpse into your life away from the boat, it was very much appreciated and allowed me to build my mental picture of who you really are and I was not disappointed. Thank you for this channel guys, it helps me more than you will know!
Can you tell me the interior height? Amazing but there is no information anywhere on nordhavn’s homepage or online. The front cabin looks low. Much appreciated
Evening Mark & Fiona, you guys are probably having the time of your lives back home, but just checking in, to make sure all is well and fine. Not seen one of your videos for a while, wondering if it’s my settings on UA-cam, hope all is well cheers 🥃🏴
Say Hi to Marina Monastir Captain Mr. Dimassi and Mohamed (guy from Marina). I moored my Nordhavn 41 there in the spring of 2023. Now I'm in Nazaré in Portugal (heading to Amsterdam) Come visit on the way from Mediterranean to UK.
@@AwanuiNZ never feel guilty mate . . . Look around you . . . You have dedicated your life for the betterment of your family . . . Because of both of your hard work they are set . . 👏👏👏👏
Yesterday we saw you posted your new video 14 mins long. I went to get my wife so we could watch it together and when we sat down, it was gone. I hope everything is OK. Very much looking forward to your adventures.
Would love to know how many hours steaming and what your cost of fuel and hourly fuel burn was. Know this. Every diesel burns one Gallon of Diesel for every 25 to 27 HP per gallon per hour at full power. Fact not fiction so if you burn 2.5 gallons of fuel per hour which is 11.25 litres per hour then you are only producing 62.5 hp . So you can look at your manufacturers fuel burn to work out how many hours you can cruise at watever Revs
Great beautiful garden !! Why don't you take a ( retired ) friend with you instead of solo sailing in wintertime? It can be very spooky in our North-western European waters in winter.
Капитан когда ты один поплывёшь в Англию, я скажу капитану подводной лодки Россия, его зовут Иван, чтобы он не обижал тебя играя с GPS и не повредил твою лодку своими ужасными морскими торпедами.
Великолепие и красота, тебе не нужно жаркое и солёное солнце, там в твоём саду, воплощены мечты людей о мире и счастье, мы не будем пускать к тебе смертельный лазерный луч " Пересвет". Оставайся Ужасным и Мудрым, пусть будут долгие твои дни жизни!!
Mark, as a past owner of a Nordhavn 47 I can tell you with confidence these boats are not "a one man show". Your life partner and shipmate, Fiona is worth her weight in gold, her loss to the team is immeasurable. I found you need at least three "watch standing qualified" crew members onboard to run the boat night and day. Any less crew members will inevitably lead to exhaustion, poor decision making at best and be unsustainable at worse. My experience in recruiting qualified and trustworthy crew members proved to be very difficult. Mark, at one time I shared your dream. I feel bad about your situation and wish I had answers for you, I really don't. Mark, your very resourceful and if anyone could make it work, it will be you. All the best to you and Fiona.
Hey thank you so much for your honesty it is so much appreciated. I totally understand where you are coming from and I am not taking this new direction lightly. I already have friends joining me and offers from keen boaters some of whom I have already met. Please be assured I will not be doing crossings on my own. When on my own I will pick my way along coasts in 4 to 5 hour blocks maximum where possible. I will take my time selecting weather windows and believe me I do not want to frighten myself. Again thanks so much for your concern and taking the time to comment.
Капитан когда ты один поплывёшь в Англию, я скажу капитану подводной лодки Россия, его зовут Иван, чтобы он не обижал тебя играя с GPS и не повредил твою лодку своими ужасными морскими торпедами.
Fiona and Mark what a magical place you've created
Thank you we love it here but it is lots of work. It’s always on our minds.
Blossom Valley is just...totally amazing Mark! You and Fiona have created something very very special. Gosh, the work must be incredible! Thank you so much for sharing it with us. On Fiona pulling back, I've been coastal boating on first an express cruiser, and now on a trawler on the Atlantic coast for a total of 25 years, with two wives, and in my experience, boating is mostly a man's long term joy. For me it's meant carefully throttling the boating time to include my spouse when she wants to be on the boat, and then spending solo, or with friends, time on the boat at times that my wife and I agree upon. It's worked well for me, and I am very happy with it. I'm sure things will work out for you. Good luck, and I look forward to your next adventures.
Yip suspect that may be the case for me as well. Love to pick your brains about dealing with the Atlantic Coast
Thanks for inviting us down to the gardens guys! I was speechless at the beauty of your garden wonderland! It looked spectacular in both the daylight and at night! Absolutely stunning and great to see your son’s contributions too, they both have your talents for garden design! Well done Chris and Sam, keep up the great work! ❤
You are so wonderful and thank you for the lovely meals and company. Yippee the boys have done well.xx
STUNNING!!! What a paradise you have!!
We absolutely think so, thanks
@@AwanuiNZ Hopefully we can make the trip from Alaska to New Zealand in the next few years. Would love to see everything in full bloom!!
Blossom Valley is absolutely breathtaking! What a beautiful homestead you have created. Though you and Fiona have made some changes to your initial plans the adventure for both of you still lies ahead and will just take some different twists and turns….it’s called living your lives as the two of you see fit for yourselves. I look forward to the next chapter of AwanuiNZ and wish you both well and happy no matter where you are. You are very special folks!❤️
Thanks so much…yes a big change for us but we will make it work…all part of the fun
Cherry jam
sadly they do not fruit
Well I was not expecting fantastic gardens like that.... amazing.
Mark and Fiona- we have been following you since you picked up your beautiful home on the water! ❤. Karsten and I (Deb) are going to Anacordes, Wa. Next week to review and make an offer on A Norhavn 64 ft boat. Like you we do not have experience with a boat, but both of us have been dreaming since we were children about owning a yacht and traveling the world! You are courageous- both of you! Your adventures have softened any fears of concern and strengthened our resolve to forge ahead and offer and LIVE! We watched your latest video and realize the news! 😮. If you have any desire for company, Karsten would love to fly wherever you are to assist you in your months alone and plans to boat home to NZ - just let us know! We have spoken to James Leishman and we spoke about you and we have viewed every video you have created! Even writing this message seems strange - not asking for anything, we have done our research and lack experience. Willing to meet you anywhere either in our boat or to offer our (Karsten) assistance in your travels without Fiona
Best wishes and hope you respond,
Karsten and Deb
How exciting. Let’s chat
Karsten and Deb - congratulations on your decision and hope everything works out in Anacortes next week! I hope that you will also be documenting your journey on UA-cam. I too, am looking to get more experience and eventually buy a Nordhavn. If you find that you could use an extra set of hands on board, please keep me in mind. I am willing to meet up anywhere. Ron
@@AwanuiNZ this is great news! Karsten and I will definitely keep in touch! We miss your videos! We support you on so many levels
Oh my goodness, your blossom garden is spectacular ❤. I enjoy your travels, have safe travels.
Thank you, I will
Really can’t wait for you to get back to the boat, I’ve been a fan of Nordhavn ever since the 46 and would love to have one. We had a Erickson 38 sail boat we sailed out of San Francisco for a few years and love boating. Now as an old man man sail boats are too much work. Your home is fantastic, but the 51 is my dream.. your videos and editing are some of the best I’ve ever seen, please just keep it up. All the best Chuck
Absolutely will keep it up and really enjoy making each episode so that makes it easy
Thanks for sharing your journey with the world. My wife and I have just bought a trawler yacht and will be living on her in Italy and cruising around the Med. Your adventures are incredibly inspiring!
How exciting…when will you be there?
@@AwanuiNZ Hoping to make the move next month!
You have created something absolutely magnificent. The scents must be amazing and I can imagine why people want to come and see this. Pity it is not really the temperatures like you are now accustomed to, but understand why you wanted to be there. If we ever make it to New Zealand we will come and visit when it is the time of the cherry blossom. Absolutely amazing 👍
The marina in Tunesia looks great and professional, your boat will be absolutely fine there.
Do you have a fuel polisher installed on your boat ? If not, you may want to think about adding that, you never know if the fuel is really clean when you pump it into the boat. We run our fuel polisher quite often, just to make sure we get no algae in the tanks.
Don't know if you already do it, but you may want to start thinking about adding diesel additives to keep the diesel bug out of your tanks. Your tanks are still clean, definitely want to keep it that way.
As for the interior, at the moment not an issue, but when you move into colder areas you may want to think about buying one or two dehumidifiers. We have them running all winter long when we are not onboard (one in the salon, galley pilot house area and one in the cabin area), they keep the moisture out, but they keep the mold and thus the smell out of the boat. Cost about 150 euro a piece, but worth every penny.
Another item are your fridges and freezers. We found out that switching them off results many times in gas leakages and thus non functioning equipment. So now we leave them on during the winter, at min temp settings. It prevents aluminum pipes and seals becoming poreus. It does cost some money in electricity, but having to exchange your fridges is more expensive.
Not surprised to hear the change in the crew in the winter time. Boat life is something which is not for everyone and winter time is definitely a different story. Handling the boat single handed is possible, but am not sure you would want to do that when you go from Portugal to the UK. Seas can be absolutely horrendous or even flat out dangerous, the gulf of Biscay is the most lethal one in Europe. Problem is that the weather can change so fast you will not be able to get out of the way. Perhaps putting Awanui on a merchant ship from Portugal to the UK and then pick her up again in the UK is an option ?
Anyway, we wish you many beautiful days with the blossoming cherry trees. you truly created something special. Was it is vision back then or do you just like gardening ?😀
All good info thank you. My plan is to coastal cruise around the BOB and then cross the Chanel from France
You have a beautiful property there Captain and a Nordhavn, what else could you want other than the health to enjoy it.
An Irish blessing to you and your family, enjoy it.
Now that IS nice
It's no secret, that it is the sailing that I find fascinating, but this episode, and seeing blossom Valley again - I must say it is absolutely gorgeous ...! And it was initially funny when you - tried - to reveal the breaking news, how you could argue as to who says what and how - the Breaking news itself.... was making me pause a bit.... and then realizing what a truly great couple you two are.... the depth of you two - your relationship ... wow.... Looking so much forward to continue following your channel...
Thanks so much…..big moment for us and never rehearsed so don’t know quite what is going to be recorded. Next episode I am so scared of but not much I can do about it
@@AwanuiNZ I understand the scare..... But if you give it time - I think you will come to terms.... and considering Fiona's analysis ...hmm... and you yourself are allowed to alter plans as well - if her "objections" are to much for you... but no matter what, I am left with a feeling that it is all coming from the love between you two..
Mark and Fiona thank you for the great journey over the past months its been amazing also your gardens are beautiful now looking forward to the next adventure with you. Sorry to hear Fiona won't be with you Mark good luck to you both.
Our pleasure!
Wow.. blown away by your gardens.. what a place to have! Sorry about Fiona, but I relate.. I don't own a yacht because my wife isn't interested.. In my youth, I would have volunteered to be your 2nd mate on your voyage... but alas, at 76, not as spry as I used to be. Wish you the best, and love your videos... ( And your boat! )
Never too old!
Mark and Fiona once again thank you so much for another tour of the Gardens. Such a remarkably beautiful place. Sorry to hear Fiona will not be with you Mark for the full trip. However our family saying is "Do the Best You Can With What You Have Where You AT". Be safe on your trip back to Awanui NZ and we look forward to joining you on more of your adventures.
Thanks so much L9nda
What a fantastic display. Well done for creating it. When you get to England come and enjoy Poole Harbour.
Where the heck is that
Awesome property, thanks for sharing with us. Fiona leaving the boat intermittently is a shame , but I can totally relate to her reasons. Mark , she is not gone and both of you will be fine. Looking forward to what the future brings
Our pleasure!
Mark would love to be your deck hand for some of the longer passages
Careful what you wish for
Absolutely fantastic. Now, I can see why you had to go back home for a while. Thanks for sharing and I wish you all the best on your journey.
Thank you very much!
WOW WOW WOW Blossom Valley is spectacular! The cherry trees are luscious and lovely and the ancillary planting is pretty as well. Fabulous night lighting too. Looks like rhododendrons are happy in New Zealand. Saw a quick glimpse of what looked like a pleasing formal garden with clipped hedges. The grounds must take an immense amount of maintenance. Congratulations on your wonderful gardens.
Fiona certainly gave cruising her best, but being onboard a small ship, away from family and home for extended periods is not for everyone. All the viewers will miss her quick wit and good nature very much, but kudos for her to strike a balance in her life that works for her.
Absolutely and kind of felt it might be coming…perhaps not so soon
Mark, us faithful followers will be journeying with you for support.
Fiona, with your being a mother and grandmother, I can certainly see that being with the family will be a priority for you. I do so wish you the best of times.
What a gift the both of you have given the region with this amazing garden. Loved the tour, the night time especially.
Cheers.
PS Mark, I hope you’re sitting down when Fiona tells you the numbers. This will be interesting, and especially helpful for anyone looking at a new boat.
Indeed it will and thanks so much for your support
Mark & Fiona, WOW! What a beautiful home/property you have created for yourselves in New Zealand and to share it with others to enjoy. Wishing you safe travels when you’re traveling without Fiona. Looking forward to more of your adventures. Best Wishes.
Thank you so much!
Blossom valley is amazing, thank you for showing us your beautiful place. Wow, definitely breaking news, totally understandable about missing the family. Will be tough on your own, but you’ve got great mates, and you will be fine on your own. Fiona will be back before you know it. All the best 🏴🥃
Thanks for such positive feedback
Darn, I was looking for that solar update. Oh, well, I love your property; absolutely beautiful. The Breaking News was a shock because Fiona is a big part of the channel, but we now you can do it. Perhaps planning to go home over a three year period is too long. At any rate, be safe and have fun.
Yip bit of a shock but we will make it work.
Maybe its an opportunity to get crew from the Nordy site - either dreamers or people on a waiting list for a Nordy, to help crew and keep your chin up on those long stretches ? Must be people wanting that chance, and be a great way to share your knowledge while Awanui finds her way home or to a new home
Quite keen to see how I go on my own but yes have had that thought also when the time is right for me
Wow wow wow Fiona and Mark that was a stunning reveal i know youve mentioned Blossom Valley but that small film of it was so
dream like my emotion got the better of me. Spectacular, Breathtakingly Beautiful. Your a man of Land, Sea and Air and very sucsessful well done my friend 😂
Thanks so much we really appreciate all the positive feedback we get
Blossom valley is amazing ! Someday my wife and I will hopefully travel to New Zealand and see it for ourselves , your videos are so inspiring , thank you .
Thanks so much
Blossom Valley WOW WOW WOW !
Thank you
Great summary. Wally and Jen shared some of their experiences and clearly loved every minute and have so much admiration for two. What a super adventure.
The breaking news seems to make sense in such a big kaupapa Mark.
Yip thanks David. So pleased they enjoyed it. As I said the next visit will be pure relaxation. It was so nice to see them spend a whole month together
Amazing garden, lots of planning and work done to make it so beautiful. On my next trip to NZ, I'll make sure to pay a visit. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us all, truly appreciated. 🙂👍from🇨🇦
No worries we love making every episode
Great episode, thank you!
You are so welcome
I don't even know what to say after following you from the beginning. I absolutely LOVE your garden. I am not stunned by your decision to continue with your yachting. I think it is much easier for older couples than it would have been when you were younger especially with all the technology for you to stay in touch. Still, I will miss Fiona keeping you in check while aboard Awanui NZ.
Something tells me I will hear her voice on my shoulder as I make decisions
Wow! Blossom Valley is absolutely gorgeous! Especially at night (I’m a night owl).
It’s pretty special to us
So so beautiful is your home! Thought I’d share, My lil 4yr old grandson who lives in Tokyo has been attending drumming lessons since he was 3. He is an amazing talent! The local summer street festivals are magic with lots of drummers with traditional dancing by all in kimonos or not, etc. I’ll show him this clip of Blossom Valley drumming under the cherry blossoms. He’ll love it! Blossoms are seen every yr from his apartment. Congratulations, You’ve both made a stunning oasis of beauty! (By the way, Our lil guy was born at 24 weeks Gest, he’s a lil wonder to behold) Cheers from us 🍍🐨 ps, I felt teary too!
Amazing what a story….I just love Japan
Fantastic video Mark. Beautiful garden. Well done you two.
Thank you kindly
Go team, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Everyone is happy doing their thing - win/win. Mark better get onto those phone call technologies
Indeed
Nooooo say its not so
First abbott and costello then martin and lewis now Mark and Fiona
I cant handle this
We need our Fiona
I do like blossom valley though
Adding it to my bucket list
If you need some help Mark love to give you a hand on any of your trips
Thanks so much……I am looking forward to trying on my own but don’t know how long I will last
With such a marvellous paradise back home, i do not blame Fiona for her decision 🫠. Best wishes .
Lots and lots of work too
my mother came from down there, (Pahiatua) so I know the area of your garden thank you for the tour daylight and night the history , hearing the news sad but hey you will be fine and the adventures you will make thanks once again
No problems. Paihiatiua is a great part of NZ
Hi Mate, Blossom Valley looks amazing, you both have done an amazing job on the gardens. Mark, I'm sending you some fishing lures this week to Blossom Valley for your next trip. Like to see you catch your own fish 🐟
I will absolutely look forward to that! Woohoo fish for dinner
Hey Mark, your parcel is at the post office. Let me know if you need a tracking number.
Great to meet you tonite. Blossom Valley looks fantastic. Well worth the trip from Chch Diane & Ian
Hey thanks so much it was great to see you guys and really appreciate the time you took to come up. Wish we had more time just so busy. Leave for Tunisia two weeks Sunday
That trip from Gibraltar to the Uk will test you, the Portuguese coast has some very dangerous areas and then Biscay need to get your weather right and think about increasing your cruise speed for some of those legs to not be so exposed for more time than necessary, I’ve done it many times so I speak from experience.
Yip that’s an area to be extremely careful in…..I will be
That sounds like an adventure for sure. Single-handed and video documenting will definitely keep you busy.
Yip don’t think the day will be hard to fill in…breakfast, coffee, video, maintenance, video, beer, relax, sleep
@AwanuiNZ 2 weeks in... Mark will be wearing a pirate hat. Singing sea shanty's drinking rum.
If only
Hi Mark , lovely garden, looks amazing, sad to hear about Fiona , but get it , can I suggest something, why don’t you both come back to NZ for 4-5 months at a time , leave the boat then both go back to sail again, the trip will take longer ( so we will get videos for longer ) best to you both , and thanks for taking us on your journey 👍
Let’s see how this year goes. I had always intended to LIVE on AwanuiNZ…..kind of feels like my home now
I grew up in wellington(wainuiomarta,lower hut,stokes valley)& the weather was very cold wet windy,
white frost covered the grass & had to pour hot water on the car windows to get the ice off,long wet & cold winters,not a good place to live
Great places to live
loved this episode ! great achievement congrats to both of you ! blossom valley looks amazing - can we get online to buy some caps? :)
No we don’t have a store online other than for the event itself
If you stop over in London from Southampton i'll show you the pubs and buy you lunch.👍
That’s a deal, remind me when I get closer
Wow! The garden is remarkable! How do you maintain this? Do you charge admission and have paid staff?
We have a full time gardener and charge $10NZ during the year, $15 for Blossom Valley daytime, $20 for the lights
Good on ya mate, I'm sure there will be lots of your NZ retired mates that would relish the chance to crew for you on those longer trips for a few weeks as you move around Europe. You also have all the technology on Arwanui at your fingertips to make singlehanded cruising a doddle.
Now that’s the confidence I love to hear
Hi Mark, were coming down to blossom valley, I'll bring you that socket set so badly needed for those hose clamps.
I await your arrival!!
That looks so nice . . . What a special place . . .
Great wedding venue . .
Was thinking . In the future you mite look at doing a drone light show one night . . .
Till next time . Take care .
👍👋🇳🇿🍻twa
I have thought of that, our two middle boys look after the gardens now so anything new like that is up to them.
Mark, i I thought you was going to say you was going to order a 60 or a 63! I have a De alm Delfino 64 trawler in south Holland heading to Scandinavia next summer if you’re heading in that direction!
Nope 51 is absolutely perfect for us. Really want to visit
OMG!! Mark's enthusiasm without Fiona's steading influence and sage advice. Should be interesting times ahead for Mark. I can understand Fiona's decision however. What a magic place you two have developed in Blossom Valley NZ. Also, kids and grandkids at Christmas time are memories that just have to be made and treasured forever. Cruising the Med can wait for awhile:)
That is all true
SPECTACULAR !
Many thanks!
Ok so lets break this down for me. 1. The Blossom Valley part, you know when people say it was draw dropping, well I have only experienced that maybe 3 times in my life, where you just sit there with your mouth open unable to move. That was the blossom valley part for me, just incredible! 2. Mark, your love for Fiona is magical., I watched the way you looked her and was holding back your tears when she explained about spending time with the grandkids, while you held your tears back, I did not, this was a magical moment. 3. Finally, thanks for a small glimpse into your life away from the boat, it was very much appreciated and allowed me to build my mental picture of who you really are and I was not disappointed. Thank you for this channel guys, it helps me more than you will know!
Beautiful words and you read me well!
@@AwanuiNZ Thank you sir! I think we would have been good friends in another life :)
Friends now
@@AwanuiNZ I'm also really into aviation as well as is my son, who works in that arena. Another tick in the box :)
Blossom Vally looks amazing. Sad news that your going solo to Southamptom - If you need another crew mate I'm up for it! Based Southampton. 👍
Aha I will keep it in mind. Part of me is looking forward to the challenge
Wow1 How lovely.
Thank you
Can you tell me the interior height? Amazing but there is no information anywhere on nordhavn’s homepage or online. The front cabin looks low. Much appreciated
About 7’mor 2m I suspect. Front of front cabin could have been 200mm, 8” higher
from the hart and respect each other's dreams
Yip always
incredible
Thanks so much
You need to put your blossom valley murch on sale
No energy for that……maybe could get the boys onto it
Evening Mark & Fiona, you guys are probably having the time of your lives back home, but just checking in, to make sure all is well and fine. Not seen one of your videos for a while, wondering if it’s my settings on UA-cam, hope all is well cheers 🥃🏴
Yes got a bit busy and a tad slack. You should have the new one by now
Wow.
Thank you
Say Hi to Marina Monastir Captain Mr. Dimassi and Mohamed (guy from Marina). I moored my Nordhavn 41 there in the spring of 2023. Now I'm in Nazaré in Portugal (heading to Amsterdam) Come visit on the way from Mediterranean to UK.
I absolutely will…rammells@xtra.co.nz
That's great news.
Ill subscribe again.
Tell palay you're looking for a crew.
They get them
Did not know you had left
. Family is important 💐💐.
Totally….now you got me feeling guilty not coming back
@@AwanuiNZ never feel guilty mate . . . Look around you . . . You have dedicated your life for the betterment of your family . . . Because of both of your hard work they are set . . 👏👏👏👏
Love Blossom Valley… If you need crew give me a shout as I’m retired and would love the adventure 👍
Well send me a note on who you are. Best get to know each other if we may crew together. rammells@xtra.co.nz
Good luck the the adventures both of you, I’m sure you’ll be inundated with people wanting to be deckhands.
Winter? We shall see
So you own and operate your own botanical park, are you planning on adding a Ferris wheel and roller coaster ?
just teasing 🤣
Definitely not
@@jus4funtimGuessed that
Yesterday we saw you posted your new video 14 mins long. I went to get my wife so we could watch it together and when we sat down, it was gone. I hope everything is OK. Very much looking forward to your adventures.
Next one out today
That is beautiful, it shows a different side of you, interesting. (satire)
Mmmm….not intended but it is just us
you poor thing ! , yep some people just dont like boating life ! < my wife did the same thing ! , bugger
Fiona loves it just not full time. Summer sailor
If you need a hand shifting her let me know, uk based in Wales ex kiwi semi retired master and engineer. Sailed all nz med biscay.
Thank you so much….sounds like you have had some amazing adventures
Would love to know how many hours steaming and what your cost of fuel and hourly fuel burn was. Know this. Every diesel burns one Gallon of Diesel for every 25 to 27 HP per gallon per hour at full power. Fact not fiction so if you burn 2.5 gallons of fuel per hour which is 11.25 litres per hour then you are only producing 62.5 hp . So you can look at your manufacturers fuel burn to work out how many hours you can cruise at watever Revs
It’s coming
Hi, if you’d like a deckhand to help with your journey to Southampton then maybe I could help you out with that.
I will keep all offers in mind
Shit mark. Do you have an internal reality checker. 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Sorry lost me?
@@AwanuiNZ Probably no then.
sorry don’t understand? maybe that’s the problem.
@@AwanuiNZ Indeed. What are you going to do without Fiona telling you not to do silly things? I am sure she knows what I mean🤣🤣
Christ, I thought you were going to say you were selling the boat to start with!
Not on your Nellie!
I’m disappointed, I thought as boating you tubers you’d either be building a new boat or having babies😜
Haha
@@AwanuiNZ my bro lives in Inglewood, next time we visit we’ll make sure it’s in Sept/oct and drop into blossom valley👍
Pick me, pick me... I'll come and sail with you.
Haha I need to try this on my own. Got some mates coming later
Great beautiful garden !!
Why don't you take a ( retired ) friend with you instead of solo sailing in wintertime? It can be very spooky in our North-western European waters in winter.
Great idea I shall try and find one! I have been thinking.
Где же твои большие стада быков и овец??
Next paddock over
Когда начнётся ядерный Армагеддон, то в Сибири и у тебя капитан люди останутся в живых!!!
Let’s hope it does not happen
Капитан когда ты один поплывёшь в Англию, я скажу капитану подводной лодки Россия, его зовут Иван, чтобы он не обижал тебя играя с GPS и не повредил твою лодку своими ужасными морскими торпедами.
Thank you thank you
Мудрый и Ужасный капитан, ты молодец и добрый, но почему ты оставил на лодки те милые цепи???
Mm
Великолепие и красота, тебе не нужно жаркое и солёное солнце, там в твоём саду, воплощены мечты людей о мире и счастье, мы не будем пускать к тебе смертельный лазерный луч " Пересвет".
Оставайся Ужасным и Мудрым, пусть будут долгие твои дни жизни!!
Yes hopefully
Mark, as a past owner of a Nordhavn 47 I can tell you with confidence these boats are not "a one man show". Your life partner and shipmate, Fiona is worth her weight in gold, her loss to the team is immeasurable. I found you need at least three "watch standing qualified" crew members onboard to run the boat night and day. Any less crew members will inevitably lead to exhaustion, poor decision making at best and be unsustainable at worse. My experience in recruiting qualified and trustworthy crew members proved to be very difficult. Mark, at one time I shared your dream. I feel bad about your situation and wish I had answers for you, I really don't. Mark, your very resourceful and if anyone could make it work, it will be you. All the best to you and Fiona.
Hey thank you so much for your honesty it is so much appreciated. I totally understand where you are coming from and I am not taking this new direction lightly. I already have friends joining me and offers from keen boaters some of whom I have already met. Please be assured I will not be doing crossings on my own. When on my own I will pick my way along coasts in 4 to 5 hour blocks maximum where possible. I will take my time selecting weather windows and believe me I do not want to frighten myself. Again thanks so much for your concern and taking the time to comment.
Где же твои большие стада быков и овец??
In the paddocks
Капитан когда ты один поплывёшь в Англию, я скажу капитану подводной лодки Россия, его зовут Иван, чтобы он не обижал тебя играя с GPS и не повредил твою лодку своими ужасными морскими торпедами.
Good