We were scared shitless when we bought this boat. We were faced with the cost of a massive refit. Looking back, those were moments of boldness that defined our trajectory. Nothing more. Nothing less. Just tiny moments of bravery. What's your dream?
Hope to follow in your wake in 5 years time ...we love watching your journey and thanks for all this info...it reassures us to plough forward with our dream
It may sound funny, but I grew up in what a lot of people consider paradise: the Caribbean. Since the age of 9 I sailed every weekend in the most beautiful weather sailors dream of: warm, wind and blue water and sky. However my dream was to live in North America, back then it was USA. My journey took me first to Europe, almost made it to USA and then 9/11 happened. Which turned my life upside down as my partner was living in USA and I couldn't emigrate to live with her. So she moved to Europe and 4 years later we decided to go to Canada, Vancouver in particular. So not very far where you guys grew up! We believe this is a dream come true for both of us (my wife grew up in Eastern Europe). Now as a blue water sailor I wanted to travel around the world like you do (plan was early retirement), but the .com bust, 9/11 and the financial crises in '08 killed that permanently. My wife won't set foot on a boat that can't hold an unsupported champagne glass upright, so I will stick to sailing in the English Bay as long as we live here!
Hi there. I am 60 years young, with an old Formosa 51 (solid wood) yacht. We (me and my late wife) bought her 4 years ago, to live our dream. Unfortunately, life decided to deal us a tough hand. I was derailed for 3 years, and, as I started on African Dream again, my heart started with troubles. But, such is life. They say God will not put an obstacle in your way, if HE did'nt know you can clear it. Since I started watching your vlogs ,you have been influencing me positive so much, you will never know. Please keep on with the good work. Kind regards and GOD bless, Piet
I appreciate you guys not using vague numbers and actually explaining how much you were earning, saved for living, etc. I really enjoy your enthusiasm!
Having retired recently and dealing with a terminally ill wife, I feel encouraged to get that boat and set sail. Your VLOG is the best one Ive seen and you truly earn those $. I'll continue to follow and may become a patron pending cost. Thanks for many enjoyable videos. Best Boompy
Our family over the past two years has taken up watching all the sailing vlogs we can. We honestly have to say yours seems to be the most authentic 💓 But maybe because we just get our fellow Canadians humour. Really enjoyed the back story. Please continue to inspire and teach us to not be afraid to live our dreams. May your next season be a fantastic one! This is our dream in the next 5 years. Love you guys
You continue to raise the bar, both for yourselves and other sail channels. More often than not, can't help but smile when viewing a vid. Again, thank you.
Love what you guys are doing! I'm 28 and my wife is 31, and we both want to do this kind of thing so badly and for now at least, you guys are out inspiration! I am so extremely happy for you guys that you pulled everything together to make this happen, thanks for sharing your journey with us!
Awesome video. My husband and I watch a lot of sailing videos. We usually don't like the ones where they talk a lot but you two we really connect to. We would love to get out there and sell everything but.... we have grandchildren who need us. So, we live the dream through you two and our other sailors. Thank you for living our dream for us and taking us along! Love that you spend time with the Island people that others don't. Very eye opening!
Hi dee dee: Yup, children and grandchildren contradict a free lifestyle. Other bloggers drink and party a lot. Ben and Ashley like a beer along with intelligent sightseeing and people watching (sociology and culture study in big words). That's a big difference!
I am 52 and have been a nomad for the past 5 years and absolutely love it. I have never sailed and only been on the ocean one time in my life but I feel a overwhelming desire to learn to sail. I am not sure it will be around the world (I hope so, what an adventure!). I am in Oregon currently considering buying a small 22-26" sailboat to learn how to sail on. I just really wanted to say thank you for sharing your story. Maybe we could connect some time and I could pick your brain :). Congrats on the new baby and the adventures ahead.
I politly disagree with your statement that you are nothing special. You are special. You guys and a few others have turned your dream into reality. Lots of dreamers in the world, but few doers and, indeed, very few doers in an environment with as much inherent risk as blue water sailing. I routinely watch five sailing channels. All of you are indeed special in your own ways. Thank you for making the journey and taking me and others with you.
The two of you seem to be so easy going and happy and love each other. That all comes through your videos, which I enjoy very much. Thanks for sharing!
This is the adventure of a lifetime and it is also very close to my heart. I am a former sea-going Marine Engineer in the merchant navy, having sailed on big general cargo and container ships for about 9 years. I completely resonate with all that is being shared. Regrettably did not have the opportunity to enter the many small ports and unique enclaves being discussed, merely based on the size of our vessels at that time i.e. 250 - 300 meters long. Nevertheless, I'm now following this series and if ever you come to my home country and port city (Cape Town, South Africa), just give me a shout.
I was born In Port Alberni. Grew up on the West coast , in a little town called Ucluelet. learned To scuba dive and climb mountains, fish, and explore wherever I could. I commented before thinking you guys were from the U.S. My bad. Victoria is an awesome place too. Bucket list, Go to Bora Bora. Dive the crystal waters of the pacific. I know how you must feel when you have to go home after an adventure like this. Sooo sad to see it end. But, you have done it. You have done what so many people only dream about. Good for you both. Wishing you all the best. Great job Documenting this awesome adventure. Oscar for sure. Life is a collection of memories, and memories are like starlight, they go on forever.
You guys are wonderfully amazing down to earth people. I can't think of anyone I would rather watch. Thank you so much, for all you's do. Not just for me, but everyone you meet along the way. Be well and be safe with love from .ca
Thank you so much for posting this!! After just turning 30 this is my dream as well. Ive just recently started talking to my wife about thinking outside the box and telling her we don't need to work the rest of our lives. Your a prime example of a dream come true!
Bravo guys. Your living the dream. Spent a few weeks in the BVI on a Lagoon 46. Diving the wrecks, painted walls, the Baths and sucking down Pain Killers at Soggy Dollar. Kids are almost out of college, we are planning now for a 3-4 year exit strategy. Although a little older then you, we are spry and motivated. Fortune favors the bold! Will keep watching.........
I have to say that you two are a true inspiration for me. You are realizing your dreams, filling your life with quality instead of quantity. My father retired early (53 yo), and spent the rest of his life to do things he loved, things that made his life worth living. Looking back, that was the smartest move he ever done. He is still alive but dying in cancer and I am so happy for him and the choice he made. And like my father I am also going to reevaluate my life (not necessary retire), and fill it with quality. And like you guys I am planning to sail the world, se everything on my bucket list. And to that matter your videos are informative and very valuable to me. Thanks a lot and best of luck in the your future sailing adventures.
Officially restarting the series because I can't get enough. Thank you Ben & Ash, you guys are amazing, and the journey you share helps in more ways than you probably understand.
Not special? I disagree. You two are some high functioning people..... Few can be managers at a SW company.... fewer yet can start a consulting firm with what they know and earn top money.... not to mention you are both wonderful physical beings..... beautiful, healthy young people.... :)) congratulations and please keep sharing your awesome videos! Larry
your story really got me...livin your passion...i dont know about boats...but seeing your videos makes me want to own one and live in the sea even just a week..your so inspiring.
Just a tip on your tuna catches (ex tuna Fisher dude) get a metal coat hanger, or a metal rod about the same guage. When you kill it, quickly cut the head off. Put the rod down the spinal cord. This prevents lactic acid from being introduced into the meat..... it's much more mucho mas yummier;)
This video is really great! It gives much needed context to the bigger struggle we all face - pushing the same goddamn rock up the hill every day just to get a view of the ocean in the distance.
That was just superb. Way to go you two. It’s quite obvious the choices that you have made are well thought out and some very fortuitous. I too am convinced that with the correct vibe that everything works out for the best. I don’t know if y’all try to keep up with global politics but these politicians that think they have the answers likely need to spend some time with you two to get a more healthy view of the world. It’s obvious that we all need to be aware of our safety but the message that comes through your videos is that the world is normally a loving and welcoming place. Keep up the great work. You have uplifted my spirits once again.
Yeah, I wouldn't say y'all are special either, just...Awesome! A beautiful couple with great energy and enthusiasm for life and adventure. Keep the dream alive, we're dreaming right along with you. Happy sailing!
Hello from Kelowna! We did the Caribbean loop 2009 to 2012 --- on a 410 as well! All good advice here and strangely we did the same sort of planning as you guys. I have my own consulting company and did the same tax strategies to get low taxed dollar out of the company while cruising. An important consideration is debt - you can't have any. We planned for 5 years prior to leaving (which included learning how to sail). We made ALL the financial sacrifices to get our home paid off by the time I was 42. Our son was 10 years old when we left. Yes my wife and I both had the "WTF are we doing" thoughts as we were getting ready to leave....but we never looked back after we left Miami. Because we knew we were on a fixed timeline for cruising (well actually our one year plan turned into three) we decided to keep our home and finance the boat with a line of credit (a LOC only requires you to pay the interest charges) ... rental income and dividend income from investments held by my company covered all our cruising expenses and the cool thing is we could have stayed out indefinitely. SSCA forums were very helpful in navigating all these issues and always good to get advice of other cruisers who have done it). In our last year of cruising we decided to sell our house and planned to buy something else. We proposed this to our renter, 2 or 3 emails and the house was sold one year before we came home. We didn't lose alot of money when we sold our boat but were stung a bit with the currency conversion as the Canadian dollar had softened over the 3 years. The boat was easy to sell as there is demand for well looked after boats with well thought out systems (aka energy management) . I think a big issue for anyone looking to do this is whether you get out of the real estate market. BC has always had a vibrant market. A friend of mind followed our tracks from 2012 to 2018 - they chose to sell their home and left a ~$500k market to return back 3.5 years later to a $750k market. In hindsight they should have done a similar program to us (although we had low interest money the whole time we were out). The currency issue will always be there and there's not much you can do about it. We did sell everything and rented a 20ft container for the stuff we wanted to keep. Return back to lubber life was equally as difficult as leaving. I also had a consulting engineering business to wind down which was extremely difficult as I had to tell all my clients they needed to get a new engineer (that was THE hardest thing to do). Well it all turned out fine. We came back home, bought another house and I was back at full throttle within 6 months of our return (although most of our house was unfurnished for the first year). I still did navy showers for the first year and hard to adapt from the frugal sailing lifestyle. Super emotional when we sailed into Fort Lauderdale from Cuba. Three years of living off grid will change your life forever. As somebody told me the return from cruising life is like getting sent to prison. I had to come back to my career (use it or lose it). I pushed/pulled/dragged my wife and son to get out there and they were the ones who didn't want to come home. For anybody thinking about doing this: there is a shit ton of planning to pull this off buy 95% of why people don't do it is the mental barriers created by themselves. The task can seem enormous but its not that bad when you break it down into pieces.
Sabbaticus , I love your story. We left BC in 2000, and live in Miami now. We are currently in the wind down, wind up stage as we get ready to set off, a couple years to go. Every time we hear one of these stories we get pumped and that much closer to making our plan a reality. Thx for sharing. B
@@bradmorris5055 I inflicted 5 years of my plan on friends until one of them told me I was going to look really bad if I didn't do it... Maintain course speed and direction!
Awesome! I love hearing the stories of ordinary people working hard and making their dreams happen! Keep going and keep sharing, I hope your budget gives you all you need for as long as you need it.
You two are so courage's and inspiring. Life is short, and what you doing is well worth the sacrifice of traditional security of a job, house, retirement and so forth. Have a great life together. "Stay Inspired"-Dewey Paul, Jr
The excitement and passion of what you're doing pops right out of the great videos you make. We too are at that soul searching crossroad. Watching the two of you is inspirational, seeing that good planning can make it all come together. Keep them coming.
At least for me, adding a back story to your adventure changes everything. I don’t know either of you but I’m extremely proud of you for having the guts to live your life. I probably have 25 years on the two of you and I’m just now following my dream. Better late than never I guess but I regret not doing it at your age. Well done and thank you for sharing. I’m now a subscriber. Peace ☮️
Ben and ash...you guys are the bomb....not many people dare to take that plunge and so many of us have these dreams..ashley said you guys dont have a retirement fund 401 k or any of that stuff people do for later years which may never come so many people I have known planning and saving for old age and died way to soon.worrying so much about the golden years which isnt promised.I'm 60 have been retired for 2 years great pension.but no adventure of your magnitude. I feel in my heart that you 2 will grow old and together and your retirement will be ok financially. Some how you crazy guys will figure it out...good luck god bless....and thanks for those wonderful videos.....que viva ben and ash
First vlog to go into ACTUAL details (boat costs/ personal financial details/etc ). It puts things into perspective quite well. If someone is making half of what you did, the dream can still be there. Just look at spending about half on the boat that you did? Quite possible I think. Monohulls are a fair bit less than Cats so someone could still Sail the world. Very inspirational! Work hard for your dream not for your boss. It probably doesn't hurt to have attitudes like the Sailing Nahoa crew either! You guys have a terrific energy!
So lovely checking in with y'all & how great to get more context for this life of yours I've been watching. I can't help but adore y'all. So real. So funny. So passionate. SO helpful, repeat SO HELPFUL. Thank you!!
Such an amazing story. You two are an amazing couple! Your channel is a joy to watch. Your videos and editing are superb. Congrats on a job well done!!! Thanks for all you do. Be safe and enjoy all that life brings you. Fair winds and following seas.
Another great video and the details about your life decision on this wonderful adventure. Always looking forward to see your new video of the places in South Pacific and their culture. I think you guys are one of the few that really get into the local cultures and presented to the world.
You guys just enjoy the ride since we only get one chance...then one day if ur lucky your to old to go anymore....I retired at 52 and love ever minute. Myself I moved to the country and got out of the city...I'm happy with my life. I'm not as adventurous as you two..
Been watching you for a while now as I dream about sailing around the world, then I came across this video, you can imagine my surprise when I saw the news clip at the very beginning where is said Saanich couple..... and me being Gordon head born and raised! Crazy small world!
Your videos are fantastic! Just when I thought it was impossible for them to get any better you have once again outdone yourselves! Thank you and keep them coming!
Just discovered your channel tonight. I've been watching your videos for like 5 hours! You guys keep it so interesting and it feels like I am sharing in your experience. Some of the very best I've seen on youtube. You are very talented at putting these episodes together. Hope you can continue this life style as long as you want to!
It can be very hard to save sometimes while still balancing well-being and our happiness. I am happy to say we are part way along our own road to the cruising lifestyle. Last year we got our own boat. We still need to save and finish our refit but the end is close. Planning to sail south this fall. Thanks for the inspiration.
You guys are so inspirational. Your videos are such a blessing. Helping me follow my own dream of one day sale back home to the Samoan Islands with my dad came from.. Thanks n god bless
Hello you two. Well I only found you at New Year and I've really enjoyed watching the videos, they've been fun. I'm retired and in the UK so it's great to get away from Brexit and share your adventures. Carry on loving life and enjoy yourselves.👍
Great vlog you guys! Thank you for beimng candid and very honest with regards to the finances and how you got to be out there. It does take hard work and a tremendous effort up front to be able to cut the dock lines and get out on the water full time. We flirted with it back in 2010 when we did a one year sailing sabbatical aboard a 40 foot Leopard catamaran we bought for the purpose and lived aboard island hopping in the Bahamas. It has changed our outlook on life forever. Keep up the great work. We are currently down in South Africa in the western Cape for a month - you are going to love this place! Fair winds and following seas... Best wishes, Alan and Christina (Oliver, British Columbia)
Alan and Christina! We remember that phone call with you vividly. Sitting in our living room, in our old house, listening intently and jotting down almost every word you spoke over the phone. Thank You So much for that support and advice way back when. You are a legend to us!
I just L💜VE you guys!! Ashley, thanks for sharing such a personal story about your dad. I’m so sorry you lost him this early in life. It’s incredible that you were able to use this to propel you forward into your dream!🌈🌴🌎
You guys are awesome...I have watched all your vids and love them...I decided 5 years ago I was done working, 3 years ago I bought my boat and am rebuilding from her hull up...leaving in 18 months with a half a shoe string budget...I will feed myself ...Don't wait, do it...favorable winds!
woww My eyes opened after loosing my company and batling to survive with two kids after getting the next slap in the face and standing allown without out cash, job. But I survived this horror trip, got the kids in the University and now with 57 started my small dream in getting my licence to sail, Yes I bought myself a RYA sailing course in Bermudas and going for it now and really life is short and I am not going to miss this train again. Take care you guys one day we are going to meet and please do these vids so the kids can learn more what life really is. Love you guys.
Love the honesty of your videos, I look forward to each installment, I also love the way you give to, or care for the islanders that welcome you into their homes.
Ive been watching for a while and had wondered about all those questions. Thanks for the sharing. Your adventures have been so informative and engaging I look forward to everytime I see a new upload.
This is awesome! Thanks for being so forth coming with such private information! Gives a fellow Canadian a little extra motivation to see this dream of mine though from a -40 Alberta deep freeze! Safe travels to you!
I like your channel more than any other sailing channel and i watch quite a few. You guys rock. Wish I could go sailing like,e that only time I went offshore was on ice breakers and arctic caissons ( drilling rigs) in Canada and America's arctic. Well thanks guys you rock.
You guys are such inspiring Canadians! By the way I'm a first Nations single dad who would love to do that but sadly will never get the chance! Thanks for this video! Great job on following your dreams!
Great story, very real and very inspirational! Been following for about a year now and love seeing how much you have improved as bloggers. Hello from Vancouver, hoping to follow your path.
Excellent video!! I love hearing about everyone’s “boat story”! We are planning on starting our “boat story” in 2 years!! Hope to see you out there at that time!
I've heckled some of your videos in the past because they were silly BUT.....the last couple of videos have been really outstanding. This one may be one of your best yet because you have some really good content of who you were and how you got here. Excellent job and hats off to a wacky couple living life on their own terms. May you have many nautical miles ahead in your horizon and starry nights to spark your muse! - Hugo
I'm loving to watch your journey and adventures in every country you came by. Especially when you were in my country I came from, the Philippines. Wahnsinn!!! Sie waren beide so brillant!!! Ich wünsche Ihnen mehr Spaß und Erfolg.
Awesome video detailing decisions both of you made to live a non-traditional lifestyle and to live your dream. Keep the videos coming. We enjoy watching.
We were scared shitless when we bought this boat. We were faced with the cost of a massive refit. Looking back, those were moments of boldness that defined our trajectory. Nothing more. Nothing less. Just tiny moments of bravery. What's your dream?
There are a bunch of us out there that really appreciate the effort made towards revealing the steps you took to make it all happen-- very inspiring!
Hope to follow in your wake in 5 years time ...we love watching your journey and thanks for all this info...it reassures us to plough forward with our dream
It may sound funny, but I grew up in what a lot of people consider paradise: the Caribbean. Since the age of 9 I sailed every weekend in the most beautiful weather sailors dream of: warm, wind and blue water and sky. However my dream was to live in North America, back then it was USA. My journey took me first to Europe, almost made it to USA and then 9/11 happened. Which turned my life upside down as my partner was living in USA and I couldn't emigrate to live with her. So she moved to Europe and 4 years later we decided to go to Canada, Vancouver in particular. So not very far where you guys grew up! We believe this is a dream come true for both of us (my wife grew up in Eastern Europe). Now as a blue water sailor I wanted to travel around the world like you do (plan was early retirement), but the .com bust, 9/11 and the financial crises in '08 killed that permanently. My wife won't set foot on a boat that can't hold an unsupported champagne glass upright, so I will stick to sailing in the English Bay as long as we live here!
@@belkenator I second that!
Great video thanks for sharing very inspirational.
Hi there. I am 60 years young, with an old Formosa 51 (solid wood) yacht. We (me and my late wife) bought her 4 years ago, to live our dream. Unfortunately, life decided to deal us a tough hand. I was derailed for 3 years, and, as I started on African Dream again, my heart started with troubles. But, such is life. They say God will not put an obstacle in your way, if HE did'nt know you can clear it. Since I started watching your vlogs ,you have been influencing me positive so much, you will never know. Please keep on with the good work. Kind regards and GOD bless, Piet
I appreciate you guys not using vague numbers and actually explaining how much you were earning, saved for living, etc. I really enjoy your enthusiasm!
Having retired recently and dealing with a terminally ill wife, I feel encouraged to get that boat and set sail. Your VLOG is the best one Ive seen and you truly earn those $. I'll continue to follow and may become a patron pending cost. Thanks for many enjoyable videos.
Best
Boompy
Our family over the past two years has taken up watching all the sailing vlogs we can. We honestly have to say yours seems to be the most authentic 💓 But maybe because we just get our fellow Canadians humour.
Really enjoyed the back story. Please continue to inspire and teach us to not be afraid to live our dreams.
May your next season be a fantastic one!
This is our dream in the next 5 years. Love you guys
You continue to raise the bar, both for yourselves and other sail channels. More often than not, can't help but smile when viewing a vid. Again, thank you.
I love this! My dad died at 52 when I was 26, it really changed the way I looked at life. You two are an inspiration!
Love what you guys are doing! I'm 28 and my wife is 31, and we both want to do this kind of thing so badly and for now at least, you guys are out inspiration! I am so extremely happy for you guys that you pulled everything together to make this happen, thanks for sharing your journey with us!
Awesome video. My husband and I watch a lot of sailing videos. We usually don't like the ones where they talk a lot but you two we really connect to. We would love to get out there and sell everything but.... we have grandchildren who need us. So, we live the dream through you two and our other sailors. Thank you for living our dream for us and taking us along! Love that you spend time with the Island people that others don't. Very eye opening!
Hi dee dee: Yup, children and grandchildren contradict a free lifestyle. Other bloggers drink and party a lot. Ben and Ashley like a beer along with intelligent sightseeing and people watching (sociology and culture study in big words). That's a big difference!
I am 52 and have been a nomad for the past 5 years and absolutely love it. I have never sailed and only been on the ocean one time in my life but I feel a overwhelming desire to learn to sail. I am not sure it will be around the world (I hope so, what an adventure!). I am in Oregon currently considering buying a small 22-26" sailboat to learn how to sail on. I just really wanted to say thank you for sharing your story. Maybe we could connect some time and I could pick your brain :). Congrats on the new baby and the adventures ahead.
I politly disagree with your statement that you are nothing special. You are special. You guys and a few others have turned your dream into reality. Lots of dreamers in the world, but few doers and, indeed, very few doers in an environment with as much inherent risk as blue water sailing. I routinely watch five sailing channels. All of you are indeed special in your own ways. Thank you for making the journey and taking me and others with you.
The two of you seem to be so easy going and happy and love each other. That all comes through your videos, which I enjoy very much. Thanks for sharing!
This is the adventure of a lifetime and it is also very close to my heart. I am a former sea-going Marine Engineer in the merchant navy, having sailed on big general cargo and container ships for about 9 years. I completely resonate with all that is being shared. Regrettably did not have the opportunity to enter the many small ports and unique enclaves being discussed, merely based on the size of our vessels at that time i.e. 250 - 300 meters long. Nevertheless, I'm now following this series and if ever you come to my home country and port city (Cape Town, South Africa), just give me a shout.
I was born In Port Alberni. Grew up on the West coast , in a little town called Ucluelet. learned To scuba dive and climb mountains, fish, and explore wherever I could. I commented before thinking you guys were from the U.S. My bad. Victoria is an awesome place too. Bucket list, Go to Bora Bora. Dive the crystal waters of the pacific. I know how you must feel when you have to go home after an adventure like this. Sooo sad to see it end. But, you have done it. You have done what so many people only dream about. Good for you both. Wishing you all the best. Great job Documenting this awesome adventure. Oscar for sure. Life is a collection of memories, and memories are like starlight, they go on forever.
You guys are wonderfully amazing down to earth people. I can't think of anyone I would rather watch. Thank you so much, for all you's do. Not just for me, but everyone you meet along the way. Be well and be safe with love from .ca
Thank you so much for posting this!! After just turning 30 this is my dream as well. Ive just recently started talking to my wife about thinking outside the box and telling her we don't need to work the rest of our lives. Your a prime example of a dream come true!
Bravo guys. Your living the dream. Spent a few weeks in the BVI on a Lagoon 46. Diving the wrecks, painted walls, the Baths and sucking down Pain Killers at Soggy Dollar. Kids are almost out of college, we are planning now for a 3-4 year exit strategy. Although a little older then you, we are spry and motivated. Fortune favors the bold! Will keep watching.........
Ashley I am very sorry for the loss of your dad. But I am glad it pushed you into sailing around the world.
I have to say that you two are a true inspiration for me. You are realizing your dreams, filling your life with quality instead of quantity.
My father retired early (53 yo), and spent the rest of his life to do things he loved, things that made his life worth living. Looking back, that was the smartest move he ever done. He is still alive but dying in cancer and I am so happy for him and the choice he made.
And like my father I am also going to reevaluate my life (not necessary retire), and fill it with quality. And like you guys I am planning to sail the world, se everything on my bucket list. And to that matter your videos are informative and very valuable to me. Thanks a lot and best of luck in the your future sailing adventures.
Great video guys! I think you may have just inspired a whole new batch of cruisers! Safe Sailing!
Officially restarting the series because I can't get enough. Thank you Ben & Ash, you guys are amazing, and the journey you share helps in more ways than you probably understand.
Not special? I disagree. You two are some high functioning people..... Few can be managers at a SW company.... fewer yet can start a consulting firm with what they know and earn top money.... not to mention you are both wonderful physical beings..... beautiful, healthy young people.... :)) congratulations and please keep sharing your awesome videos! Larry
Oo
your story really got me...livin your passion...i dont know about boats...but seeing your videos makes me want to own one and live in the sea even just a week..your so inspiring.
Just a tip on your tuna catches (ex tuna Fisher dude) get a metal coat hanger, or a metal rod about the same guage. When you kill it, quickly cut the head off. Put the rod down the spinal cord. This prevents lactic acid from being introduced into the meat..... it's much more mucho mas yummier;)
This video is really great! It gives much needed context to the bigger struggle we all face - pushing the same goddamn rock up the hill every day just to get a view of the ocean in the distance.
That was just superb. Way to go you two. It’s quite obvious the choices that you have made are well thought out and some very fortuitous. I too am convinced that with the correct vibe that everything works out for the best. I don’t know if y’all try to keep up with global politics but these politicians that think they have the answers likely need to spend some time with you two to get a more healthy view of the world. It’s obvious that we all need to be aware of our safety but the message that comes through your videos is that the world is normally a loving and welcoming place. Keep up the great work. You have uplifted my spirits once again.
You are awesome and inspiring. Keep on keeping on!
You two are great adventurers, thanks for sharing your stories. Such a positive outlook you have.
Yeah, I wouldn't say y'all are special either, just...Awesome! A beautiful couple with great energy and enthusiasm for life and adventure. Keep the dream alive, we're dreaming right along with you. Happy sailing!
Hello from Kelowna! We did the Caribbean loop 2009 to 2012 --- on a 410 as well! All good advice here and strangely we did the same sort of planning as you guys. I have my own consulting company and did the same tax strategies to get low taxed dollar out of the company while cruising. An important consideration is debt - you can't have any. We planned for 5 years prior to leaving (which included learning how to sail). We made ALL the financial sacrifices to get our home paid off by the time I was 42. Our son was 10 years old when we left. Yes my wife and I both had the "WTF are we doing" thoughts as we were getting ready to leave....but we never looked back after we left Miami. Because we knew we were on a fixed timeline for cruising (well actually our one year plan turned into three) we decided to keep our home and finance the boat with a line of credit (a LOC only requires you to pay the interest charges) ... rental income and dividend income from investments held by my company covered all our cruising expenses and the cool thing is we could have stayed out indefinitely. SSCA forums were very helpful in navigating all these issues and always good to get advice of other cruisers who have done it). In our last year of cruising we decided to sell our house and planned to buy something else. We proposed this to our renter, 2 or 3 emails and the house was sold one year before we came home.
We didn't lose alot of money when we sold our boat but were stung a bit with the currency conversion as the Canadian dollar had softened over the 3 years. The boat was easy to sell as there is demand for well looked after boats with well thought out systems (aka energy management) . I think a big issue for anyone looking to do this is whether you get out of the real estate market. BC has always had a vibrant market. A friend of mind followed our tracks from 2012 to 2018 - they chose to sell their home and left a ~$500k market to return back 3.5 years later to a $750k market. In hindsight they should have done a similar program to us (although we had low interest money the whole time we were out). The currency issue will always be there and there's not much you can do about it.
We did sell everything and rented a 20ft container for the stuff we wanted to keep. Return back to lubber life was equally as difficult as leaving. I also had a consulting engineering business to wind down which was extremely difficult as I had to tell all my clients they needed to get a new engineer (that was THE hardest thing to do). Well it all turned out fine. We came back home, bought another house and I was back at full throttle within 6 months of our return (although most of our house was unfurnished for the first year). I still did navy showers for the first year and hard to adapt from the frugal sailing lifestyle. Super emotional when we sailed into Fort Lauderdale from Cuba. Three years of living off grid will change your life forever. As somebody told me the return from cruising life is like getting sent to prison. I had to come back to my career (use it or lose it). I pushed/pulled/dragged my wife and son to get out there and they were the ones who didn't want to come home. For anybody thinking about doing this: there is a shit ton of planning to pull this off buy 95% of why people don't do it is the mental barriers created by themselves. The task can seem enormous but its not that bad when you break it down into pieces.
Sabbaticus , I love your story. We left BC in 2000, and live in Miami now. We are currently in the wind down, wind up stage as we get ready to set off, a couple years to go. Every time we hear one of these stories we get pumped and that much closer to making our plan a reality. Thx for sharing. B
@@bradmorris5055 I inflicted 5 years of my plan on friends until one of them told me I was going to look really bad if I didn't do it... Maintain course speed and direction!
This sums it up folks! Nicely said Sabbaticus.
Sabbaticus fantastic commentary full with good and interesting reflections! Thank you very much!🍒🙏
I'm am currently living in kelowna and hopefully set sail in about 10 years.
Awesome! I love hearing the stories of ordinary people working hard and making their dreams happen! Keep going and keep sharing, I hope your budget gives you all you need for as long as you need it.
I am rooting for you guys. Complete the journey! Safe and fun travels!
You two are so courage's and inspiring. Life is short, and what you doing is well worth the sacrifice of traditional security of a job, house, retirement and so forth. Have a great life together.
"Stay Inspired"-Dewey Paul, Jr
The excitement and passion of what you're doing pops right out of the great videos you make. We too are at that soul searching crossroad. Watching the two of you is inspirational, seeing that good planning can make it all come together. Keep them coming.
I’m so glad to stumble upon your channel! Thanks for sharing your journey and will keep you in my prayers.
Who would dislike this vid?! Sigh.. some people’s kids. 🙄
You two are adorable! Keep living your best life! Cheers from Vancouver 🇨🇦! 🍻
There are always a few of those who think that the MUST dislike a video.
Another great, honest and inspirational video! Keep them coming for the rest of us who are working lots and saving hard for the same dream!
Work to live is key instead of the other way around! We go mobile at the end of the year, RV first, boat possibly next! Thanks guys!
Woot woot! The vehicle of freedom doesn't matter. It's that first step that's the hardest. All the best. Pssst: You'll be just fine.
Best couple, best sailing channel. Glad I found your channel.
BVI my home. Im so glad that experience changed your lives. Hurricane Irma did a number on us but we are coming back stronger and better
Excellent video. The back story and open and honest sharing of your experiences is refreshing.
This back story is so well done that I have forwarded it to my wife's iPad; she who does NOT like the water here in PEI.
At least for me, adding a back story to your adventure changes everything. I don’t know either of you but I’m extremely proud of you for having the guts to live your life. I probably have 25 years on the two of you and I’m just now following my dream. Better late than never I guess but I regret not doing it at your age. Well done and thank you for sharing. I’m now a subscriber. Peace ☮️
Ben and ash...you guys are the bomb....not many people dare to take that plunge and so many of us have these dreams..ashley said you guys dont have a retirement fund 401 k or any of that stuff people do for later years which may never come so many people I have known planning and saving for old age and died way to soon.worrying so much about the golden years which isnt promised.I'm 60 have been retired for 2 years great pension.but no adventure of your magnitude. I feel in my heart that you 2 will grow old and together and your retirement will be ok financially. Some how you crazy guys will figure it out...good luck god bless....and thanks for those wonderful videos.....que viva ben and ash
First vlog to go into ACTUAL details (boat costs/ personal financial details/etc ). It puts things into perspective quite well. If someone is making half of what you did, the dream can still be there. Just look at spending about half on the boat that you did? Quite possible I think. Monohulls are a fair bit less than Cats so someone could still Sail the world. Very inspirational!
Work hard for your dream not for your boss.
It probably doesn't hurt to have attitudes like the Sailing Nahoa crew either! You guys have a terrific energy!
So lovely checking in with y'all & how great to get more context for this life of yours I've been watching. I can't help but adore y'all. So real. So funny. So passionate. SO helpful, repeat SO HELPFUL. Thank you!!
I knew there was another reason I like you guys so much. I'm a motorcyclist too!
Thanks for the fun video, good story.
Such an amazing story. You two are an amazing couple! Your channel is a joy to watch. Your videos and editing are superb. Congrats on a job well done!!! Thanks for all you do. Be safe and enjoy all that life brings you. Fair winds and following seas.
Canadian s rock! The spirit to do where life sends them. Well done ! Thanks for the detailed journey. Peace from Niagara Ontario.
You don’t have retirement funds but you have got each other, your videos are so cool you are living the dream.
You two have balls of steel and I totally see your view on life. Live now and not rely on doing it tomorrow. Stay happy stay safe.
Another great video and the details about your life decision on this wonderful adventure. Always looking forward to see your new video of the places in South Pacific and their culture. I think you guys are one of the few that really get into the local cultures and presented to the world.
Your videos are so inspiring and so glad to see some fellow Canucks living this dream!
You guys just enjoy the ride since we only get one chance...then one day if ur lucky your to old to go anymore....I retired at 52 and love ever minute. Myself I moved to the country and got out of the city...I'm happy with my life. I'm not as adventurous as you two..
Been watching you for a while now as I dream about sailing around the world, then I came across this video, you can imagine my surprise when I saw the news clip at the very beginning where is said Saanich couple..... and me being Gordon head born and raised! Crazy small world!
Your videos are fantastic! Just when I thought it was impossible for them to get any better you have once again outdone yourselves! Thank you and keep them coming!
Just discovered your channel tonight. I've been watching your videos for like 5 hours! You guys keep it so interesting and it feels like I am sharing in your experience. Some of the very best I've seen on youtube. You are very talented at putting these episodes together. Hope you can continue this life style as long as you want to!
How could you not enjoy that Lifestyle choice. One of the best UA-cam channels out there!
It can be very hard to save sometimes while still balancing well-being and our happiness. I am happy to say we are part way along our own road to the cruising lifestyle. Last year we got our own boat. We still need to save and finish our refit but the end is close. Planning to sail south this fall. Thanks for the inspiration.
You guys are so inspirational. Your videos are such a blessing. Helping me follow my own dream of one day sale back home to the Samoan Islands with my dad came from.. Thanks n god bless
Hello you two. Well I only found you at New Year and I've really enjoyed watching the videos, they've been fun. I'm retired and in the UK so it's great to get away from Brexit and share your adventures. Carry on loving life and enjoy yourselves.👍
Great vlog you guys! Thank you for beimng candid and very honest with regards to the finances and how you got to be out there. It does take hard work and a tremendous effort up front to be able to cut the dock lines and get out on the water full time. We flirted with it back in 2010 when we did a one year sailing sabbatical aboard a 40 foot Leopard catamaran we bought for the purpose and lived aboard island hopping in the Bahamas. It has changed our outlook on life forever. Keep up the great work. We are currently down in South Africa in the western Cape for a month - you are going to love this place!
Fair winds and following seas... Best wishes, Alan and Christina (Oliver, British Columbia)
Alan and Christina! We remember that phone call with you vividly. Sitting in our living room, in our old house, listening intently and jotting down almost every word you spoke over the phone. Thank You So much for that support and advice way back when. You are a legend to us!
Thanks for sharing how you guys started this journey!!! Enjoyed watching
Yes! This is what we need to hear! You have no idea the fire you have lit under some of us! TY!
I just L💜VE you guys!! Ashley, thanks for sharing such a personal story about your dad. I’m so sorry you lost him this early in life. It’s incredible that you were able to use this to propel you forward into your dream!🌈🌴🌎
love your videos guys. greetings from a Bahamian that lives in Alberta Canada Happy Sailing!!!
I wish I was as brave as you. I'll just live out my dreams through watching you guys. Life is short, so might as well have fun living.
My wife and I are behind ya'll by 18 years.
One of the best videos ever, love your background, the story of your trip and purchase! Great!!!!!
“Downtown, Florida”... 😂😂😂😂 I loooove it!
Thank you for sharing . You just showed us the possibility of changing our lives into our dreams.
You guys are awesome...I have watched all your vids and love them...I decided 5 years ago I was done working, 3 years ago I bought my boat and am rebuilding from her hull up...leaving in 18 months with a half a shoe string budget...I will feed myself ...Don't wait, do it...favorable winds!
very courageous couple. nobody can do what you did. thumbs up.
Best video yet! We really liked the linear story format! Really good edit.
Thank you for this video. I like how you talked about finances and how it all came together. Way to represent BC, CANADA!
Great so pleased to have found your channel, you give me the travel bug at 75.
G Errol travel!!!
woww My eyes opened after loosing my company and batling to survive with two kids after getting the next slap in the face and standing allown without out cash, job. But I survived this horror trip, got the kids in the University and now with 57 started my small dream in getting my licence to sail, Yes I bought myself a RYA sailing course in Bermudas and going for it now and really life is short and I am not going to miss this train again.
Take care you guys one day we are going to meet and please do these vids so the kids can learn more what life really is.
Love you guys.
Love the honesty of your videos, I look forward to each installment, I also love the way you give to, or care for the islanders that welcome you into their homes.
Great story! Moral of the story you can do whatever you want! Just do it! Be safe out there you two. Sail on!
So Awesome! One of my favorite sailing channels for sure! So great you're still going!
Ive been watching for a while and had wondered about all those questions. Thanks for the sharing. Your adventures have been so informative and engaging I look forward to everytime I see a new upload.
Hard work pays off....I'm happy for you guys. Amazing story.
Transparency and honesty from you guys is fantastic. You are the real deal. Always enjoy your videos.
Great story Ashley & Ben, and so sorry for your loss.
Yet again inspirational..!! I am going to watch your older videos now.
Just an awesome account of how it all started for your two. Sail on forever!!!
This is awesome! Thanks for being so forth coming with such private information! Gives a fellow Canadian a little extra motivation to see this dream of mine though from a -40 Alberta deep freeze! Safe travels to you!
I like your channel more than any other sailing channel and i watch quite a few. You guys rock. Wish I could go sailing like,e that only time I went offshore was on ice breakers and arctic caissons ( drilling rigs) in Canada and America's arctic. Well thanks guys you rock.
You guys are such inspiring Canadians! By the way I'm a first Nations single dad who would love to do that but sadly will never get the chance! Thanks for this video! Great job on following your dreams!
Amazing.video guys! Thanks for sharing it! Wish tou both another four and beyond... Safe sailing! I'm a fan!!!
Wow this was amazing, insightful and very informative - kudos to fellow Canadians, living their dreams ! Thank you for sharing.
Great story, very real and very inspirational! Been following for about a year now and love seeing how much you have improved as bloggers. Hello from Vancouver, hoping to follow your path.
You guys are awesome. Fun and goofy(in a good way) but you can tell you are wicked smart as well. Really enjoy you two.
One of my favorite videos of sailers yet. So enjoyed the story. God bless your journey!
Excellent video!! I love hearing about everyone’s “boat story”! We are planning on starting our “boat story” in 2 years!! Hope to see you out there at that time!
I've heckled some of your videos in the past because they were silly BUT.....the last couple of videos have been really outstanding. This one may be one of your best yet because you have some really good content of who you were and how you got here. Excellent job and hats off to a wacky couple living life on their own terms.
May you have many nautical miles ahead in your horizon and starry nights to spark your muse! - Hugo
I’ve been to Victoria twice. It’s a beautiful little city. Love it! Continued success and smooth sailing.
Best "how we did it" video I have seen. Your videos are always so real feeling. You should really consider having crew on board ;)
You guys are awesome, love your channel. I flew to Hawaii from Dallas, to buy a boat to sail the world. Thanks for the inspiration and no how.
I'm loving to watch your journey and adventures in every country you came by. Especially when you were in my country I came from, the Philippines. Wahnsinn!!! Sie waren beide so brillant!!! Ich wünsche Ihnen mehr Spaß und Erfolg.
Awesome video detailing decisions both of you made to live a non-traditional lifestyle and to live your dream. Keep the videos coming. We enjoy watching.