Beauty and the Beasts
Current Position as of 18:25UTC: 20.14N, 159.31W
(date of position will always be the date of the post unless otherwise noted)
The Pacific has given me a rude welcome with heavy winds and sharp swells since my departure. I did make 110 miles so in a way it was worth the almost sleepless night. I spent the day near the helm helping Intrepid make her way down these swells and stay on course and napping when I could.
I have had 2 squalls as of this writing with a few more on the radar. These squalls are different from the ones I experienced on the way to Hawaii. These are the ones you read about in books; heavy winds (25-35 knots), large swells and pouring rain. They don't last long - maybe 10-15 minutes but they put you through your paces! The second one was especially impressive because it crept up behind me. I forgot to mention the full moon last night. I was sleeping and woke up with this yellow light all around me. When I got up and looked around, there was the full moon behind a big cloud. The light was so amazing. When the cloud cleared the whole ocean was lit up. Awesome!
The highlight of my day was that I got an email this morning from Robin Graham. Funny, he warned me about squalls! He also reminded me of a scripture that I memorized many years ago that is sometimes called the Mariner's Psalm.
Others went out to the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters.
They saw the works of the Lord, his wonderful deeds in the deep.
For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves.
They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths; in their peril their courage melted away.
They reeled and staggered like drunken men; they were at their wit's end.
Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress.
He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.
They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven.
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men.
Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders.
Psalm 107:23-32
I spoke with Lady Sarah of Lymington and Mahana today. Mahana had a squall and now has about 12-15 knots of wind. We are still about 200 miles apart since they left Hawaii before me. Lady Sarah has turned in to Kauai because Claire was injured today and needed stitches. The radio was unclear but it sounded like she was bit by a Wahoo they were reeling in. Made me think of what I would do in the same position. I have an extensive medical kit on board. I would have to clean it, tape it up and possibly take some antibiotics to prevent infection. Fortunately, I can call for advice on the SSB radio or the sat phone.
Thanks again to every one who writes in. It is great to think of you all out there praying for me!
Cheers,
Zac
(date of position will always be the date of the post unless otherwise noted)
The Pacific has given me a rude welcome with heavy winds and sharp swells since my departure. I did make 110 miles so in a way it was worth the almost sleepless night. I spent the day near the helm helping Intrepid make her way down these swells and stay on course and napping when I could.
I have had 2 squalls as of this writing with a few more on the radar. These squalls are different from the ones I experienced on the way to Hawaii. These are the ones you read about in books; heavy winds (25-35 knots), large swells and pouring rain. They don't last long - maybe 10-15 minutes but they put you through your paces! The second one was especially impressive because it crept up behind me. I forgot to mention the full moon last night. I was sleeping and woke up with this yellow light all around me. When I got up and looked around, there was the full moon behind a big cloud. The light was so amazing. When the cloud cleared the whole ocean was lit up. Awesome!
The highlight of my day was that I got an email this morning from Robin Graham. Funny, he warned me about squalls! He also reminded me of a scripture that I memorized many years ago that is sometimes called the Mariner's Psalm.
Others went out to the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters.
They saw the works of the Lord, his wonderful deeds in the deep.
For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves.
They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths; in their peril their courage melted away.
They reeled and staggered like drunken men; they were at their wit's end.
Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress.
He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.
They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven.
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men.
Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders.
Psalm 107:23-32
I spoke with Lady Sarah of Lymington and Mahana today. Mahana had a squall and now has about 12-15 knots of wind. We are still about 200 miles apart since they left Hawaii before me. Lady Sarah has turned in to Kauai because Claire was injured today and needed stitches. The radio was unclear but it sounded like she was bit by a Wahoo they were reeling in. Made me think of what I would do in the same position. I have an extensive medical kit on board. I would have to clean it, tape it up and possibly take some antibiotics to prevent infection. Fortunately, I can call for advice on the SSB radio or the sat phone.
Thanks again to every one who writes in. It is great to think of you all out there praying for me!
Cheers,
Zac
posted by Zac at
10:09 PM
39 Comments:
Hey Zach,
Don't know if you have time to answer questions, just wondering what year your Islander is? I'm currently boat shopping and want to cruise to the south pacific. Having a hard time choosing a vessel.
In any event, God speed to you!
Tom
New Zealand
pHey Zac,
Its nice to see you sailing again. Was glad to hear that you enjoyed yourself in Hawaii. You deserved it. Was wondering Zac, Will you be home schooled when your on your journey, or are you going to take a break from schooling? Maybe your Mom will give you lessons online.
Have been following you ever since you left california. Makes for an interesting read every morning. Your an inspiration to your generation, I am 64 and I consider you as my hero. Keep up the good work. Your one in a million.
praying for you
Ron
West Fargo, ND
Hello Zac
It was fun reading your post today. I liked the Psalm that you included within the post and we are definately praying for you. We don't want a Wahoo to get a hold of you now do we? or something worse.
Charley and Joshua
Thank You, I had not read that Psalm before. I find it amazing that as we try to lift your day with our support and prayers, you are lifting us not only in your words but your deeds as well. What an amazing young man!!! Stay safe and forge ahead!!! Dave
Though it is always hard to shove off, the solitude of the sea is the reward. I thought of you last night as I gazed upon the yellow full moon. The sight of the moon lighting up the sea is something that will stay with you forever. Soak it in and enjoy.
Glad to hear that you made 110 nm yesterday. The 100+ days are always the best unfortunately sometimes they tend to be a little less comfortable. I am sure you will have plenty of calm days ahead in your travels as it is aptly named the "Pacific". So, make the most of the wind while you can.
Keep an eye on those squalls. As much as you may hate it, please keep tethered to the life line. One hand for the boat and one hand for yourself.
Sorry to hear about Claire. (I once cut the tips of 4 of my fingers really bad at sea opening a canned ham. No fun) Hope she is OK. Let her know that all the Zacaholics are thinking of her.
It was funny to hear you mention Ron Dubois. I remember him from my time in Hawaii. We bought our ssb from him almost 12 years ago (or else he helped us find one somewhere. My memory is fading with the years). We had travelled without one before that and our parents actually wound up contacting him when we were over due in Hawaii from Bora Bora. Thanks for triggering old memories.
Here's hoping that you stay dry and get some rest, Captain.
Fair winds and following seas,
Tammy
p.s. I am sure your readers would be interested to know how you hooked up with Bethany. Did you already know her or was it one of the perks of your new found fame? I know it is hard for you to answer all of the questions you receive... maybe Will (or Bethany herself) could clue us in.
Hi Zac..
me=am hopin+prayin dat u r alrite.
t8 cares,aiye?
til nxt tme
xoxo
mel
Hi Zac,
Like everyone else, I have been following your blog since you left MDR in June. I heard about your adventure on the news and have been reading your blog daily.
When my Dad sailed around the world in the 80's, I only got updates via the occasional postcard from his various ports of call. It is wonderful to read about your day to day routine and progress, it makes us feel like we are there with you.
My two young kids are in sailing camp this summer here in Lake Tahoe, CA. They are amazed at your adventure and we track your position daily as well.
As a mom, I too was worried about you eating properly, so I'm glad to hear you reprovisioned well in Hawaii and got some more fuel for your stove!
Best of luck to you!
The Wevers Family
Lake Tahoe, CA
Zac,
Your doing great. I have been keeping upwith your journey and I am very impressed with your maturity at the age of 16. Very fine parents you have to have instilled in you to achieve your goals. As the famous Norman D. Vaughn always quoted "Dream Big!! And Dare to Fail."
If Martin Strel can swim the Amazon, and Monroe Fisher can travel the world in his Talkabout the World adventures. So to can Zac Sunderland be listed amongst these great tales of men.
Rodney from Alabama
Hey Zac,
What a fantastic post. Already we can see you becoming "seasoned". Instead of describing the squalls as if you were frightened, you describe them as an experience, and challenge.
You also tell us of the beauty to be seen in the different weather you are encountering. The beauty of the moon against the clouds. You are surrounded with God's beauty.
Thanks for reading that Psalm to us all. It was beautiful, and the Lord is with you protecting you from Whaoo's! We are all praying for your safety. Be sure of that.
Best,
Peter
Hello Zac,
Be encouraged by prayer and the people who love you. The primary attack from the evil of this world is our self image. They will do their best through discouraging words to keep you from knowing your talents and spiritual gifts and ultimately who you are intended to be. Knowing the source of discouragement is not from God should ever inspire you to turn away from the discourager.
Here is excerpt from a commentary on Psalm 107 that I through you might enjoy:
“How seasonable it is at such a time to pray. Those that go to sea must expect such perils as are here described, and the best preparation they can make for them is to make sure a liberty of access to God by prayer, for then they will cry unto the Lord, v. 28. We have a saying, "Let those that would learn to pray go to sea;’’ I say, Let those that will go to sea learn to pray, and accustom themselves to pray, that they may come with the more boldness to the throne of grace when they are in trouble.” -Matthew Henry
Blessings,
Rob
Getting enough sleep with the squals will be a fairly regular problem. Méder Áron sailing around the world with a 19ft boat. His web site http://www.meder.hu/ is very informative and could be a good resource. He is currently in Fiji.
reading your blog i must say i am quite impressed. traveling is one of my goals in life and i hope that i am able to have such wonderful experiences such as yourself.
for now i have to settle with photography. =)
hope that you have a great and safe voyage.
=)
Hey ,Zac
nice to see your doing well.
I check each day on your blog. Thanks for the updates.
Rick
Anaheim CA
Hey;
Love to read your blog over my first cup of coffee. Glad to see you are posting regularly as I feel like I missed something without my daily sailing fix.
Reading your blog is like reading a book one page at a time as it it being written, great stuff.
Sure would like to see a link to some videos, and you might think of establishing a Youtube channel for them so they will get a wider audience.
Hope the wind is at your back soon.
Hi Zac,
You don't know us, but we are a homeschooling family of four boys here in Southern California. We read about your adventures in the newspaper and have been following ever since. We, like many others, are praying for your safety and successful journey. What a perfect Psalm for you to be reminded of - God is our source of strength and provision and His creation is awesome. May He continue to bless your journey - we'll keep watching and praying!
The Schaefers
Hi Zac,
I sailed to New Zealand last year on an Islander 34' and had the same problem with my solar panels.
The problem is that all of the experts have never crossed an ocean. There is proabably nothing wrong with your charge controller it is just that the sun is not as intense near the equator and solar panels are effected by heat. For instance in San Francisco in January our panels were putting out 14 amps. In June in the Marquesas at 10 degrees south they were putting out 8 or 9 and by the time we got to New Zealand they were putting out 16 (they havent got much of an ozone layer you see.) So before you go through a dozen charge controllers it proabably is just a matter of nature.
I have a lot of experience with solar and would be happy to answer any question you might have.
Cheers,
Ciel Tierra
cielandangie@gmail.com
Zac, your posting of contact with Robin Graham and the quote of the Psalm strikes me as you having stepped over into a broader place than you could have ever imagined! Yes, you are sailing around the world and yet you have already gone around the world with your blog! It's just amazing to me.
Surely, 'you have been born for such a time as this'!
I pray that angels surround you, as God promised, in Psalm 91.
Love,
Tamara
Good on ya mate! (Aussy speak)
Blue water cruising involves every aspect of sailing....and the only thing you can count on is that anything can happen. You're doing fantastic. Clearly this trip will not only shape your sailing skills but it will shape your character.
Enjoy the full moon. It's a magical time that of course only comes around once a month.
Rock on
Scot
California
For anyone who’s wondering how long it will take Zac to make it to the Marshal’s, here’s some rough math.
S. CAL TO S. OAHU/HAWAII
S. Cal to S. Oahu took approximately 27 days (I faintly remember a stop-over in Catalina I think)
S. Cal to S. Oahu = 2300nm (approx.)
27 days / 2300nm = 85nm a day
85nm a day / 24hrs a day = 3.5kts avg. hull speed
S. OAHU TO THE MARSHALS
The Marshals are 1900nm from S. Oahu (approx.)
If Zac averages 3.5kts a day (which he will likely go 25 to 35% faster with the trades) he would get to The Marshals in 22 days, or about August 7th.
The trades should be much more consistent for Zac than he experienced on Leg #1 I suspect, so I’m thinking his average speed will be about 4.5kts because he will likely slow down a bit at night for easier and “safer” sleeping, which is the smart thing to do.
If he averages 4.5kts, he’ll get to The Marshals in approximately 17.5 days, or about August 2nd.
It’s amazing how on a trip like this you go through the math over and over again for your ETA’s, I’m laughing now at my own (not a circumnavigation though, only 10,000 miles AND I was 40 vs. 16!) trip and how over and over you do this math, every day, several times a day (when it’s calm and there’s no projects to do)
Daveh
Zac. You are truly an inspiration to all us "landlubbers". You are in our thoughts always and we continue to wish you " fair winds and a following sea"
Chris & Tom Richey, Long Beach, CA
How cool you got an email (AND a Scripture) from Robin Graham. I read Dove when I was a young girl myself and it meant a lot to me as I was living aboard a boat as well.
I join with everyone who reads your blog and prays for your safe adventure.
Being in the wind and the rain in the middle of the ocean by yourself is terribly frightening for me to think of! I was very pleased to here you've got the Lord with you!
from Iowa
This is an outstanding endeavour you are making which also , at 78 years old, takes me on your voyage as well. You and your parents are terrific role models for the world to see.
God Bless,
Ralph- Edina, Minnesota
Being there's so much talk of "The Dove" Here's a few links...
You can purchase VHS copies of the movie "The Dove" off of Amazon but interestingly, it will only show up on Amazon if you Google it with [the dove robin graham] (brackets omitted). You won't be able to find it if you search directly on Amazon for some reason.
Here's a few links on the subject as well...
http://www.jarogers.com/dove2.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robin_Lee_Graham
http://www.bluemoment.com/dove.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpU_7JHV-1g
And of course, a clip of Zac, a good one...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYVYPycI3l4
Hey Zac "your the man"
great that you're back at sea...
the 'buffeting' squalls...just preparing you for what's ahead
the Lord was gracious to allow them to happen with a full moon...
psalm 107 awesome...wonderful that you memorized it...
written some 3000 years ago, David spent his youth under the stars tending the lambs, learning to know and love and depend on the LORD..."in preparation for what laid ahead for him"...
similar to you except you're under the same stars... tending the helm
but in the same way,learning to know and love and depend on the Lord as well... also "in preparation for what lay a head for you"...
psalm 46:10 and psalm 34:7
and meeting up with "bethany",you couldn't have found a more "inspiritional" friend... way way cool...
i lived in hanalei for 10 years, and oahu 25 ...
you got to see the two extremes...waikiki beach and the real hawaii "hanalei"...LOL...
nice that you got a new skateboard... real friends are precious in this life and the memories that you have of time shared together, brings a smile to your face and joy in your heart and even a tear or two to your eyes...nice how tears are salt water...LOL
i hope you're replenishing your fresh water as the squalls unload on you... get some benefit from them
for those doing their charting a degree is approxiamately 75 miles
and the speed that "Intrepid" is averaging is about the pace of a brisk walk....
and steering is like walking your bike and steering with one hand over rough terrain, the bike has a mind of it's own and needs constant attention...wanting to go its on way...as does "Intrepid"
i think of you all day long and keep you in prayer, nice that your friends and "spiritual family" are doing the same...
hey what's for dinner, sure could use one of those "buffets" about now and a "hot" shower...LOL
you're doing great...
your friends...
mark n adino in Vicksburg, Ms..
Hi Zach,
I enjoy reading your posts everyday ... keep them coming. It's great when you can realize your dreams and also have the courage to take on an exciting adventure like you have!
Praying for safe travel and wind,
Marc
Plainwell, MI
Hi Zach,
I look forward to reading your posts every day. You're truly an inspiration to many of us.
It's also great to see someone realize a dream and act on it, especially an adventure as exciting as yours! You're blessed to have parents that love and support you as well. Keep up the courage and the faith!
Praying for safe travel and wind,
Marc
Plainwell, MI
Zac,
Glad you are "back on the road again" and with good winds..although I guess that is a mixed blessing.
Hope the charger problem is fixed.
I note you will be going close to Johnston Atoll. Lots of history there and with a lot of small atolls and islands in the Pacific.
Smooth sailing my friend!
Jim
Hi Zac, Like many other here I look forward to the escape of seeing someone doing just what they want in life. I have long been a reader of sea adventure stories, and it's great following your daily trials. I see you are using SSB to talk on. Do you also have a Ham Radio ticket, or are you using the a marine radio license? KM6SX
Wind,full moon,100+ days! If U see any mermaids, ...I am so there!!!!
I love reading your blogs! Keep safe and enjoy the ride!! Watching you in Kentucky!
Zac,
Though our family lives in Minnesota, we are currently at our house in Florida. Every day I walk the beach and look out over the Gulf of Mexico. I am amazed that you are out in a huge body of water with no land to be seen. It must be a bit overwhelming. It must also be incredible! Take care
Minnesota Family
The Psalm was great. What a great place to turn for strength and encouragement I will pray for great days at sea regardless of what challenges come your way and safety of course. Zac, I look forward to your posts every day.
Stay safe and happy, Kathy from Bend Oregon
Hey Zac,
What a wonderful example of courage and faith you show to all of us who are following your adventure. Yours is my favorite blog; I wouldn't miss it for anything.
Blessings!
John
Hi Zac,
Swells and winds that's a switch, cool!! I'm glad to see you got to see tat full moon last night, we were looking at it to here in Louisville, KY. I am certain it was beautiful out there on the Pacific. Prayin' for you and keep on keepin' on Zac!
Ciao,
Lisa
Hey fellow Westlake member!
Hope the wind keeps up and that you are doing alright. I was wondering what type of exercize you get on your boat, and if you picked up exercize equipment in Hawaii?
Also, I'm glad that you are ok. The way you wrote your last blog looked as if you were frightined. Anyways,you are definently one in a million, Zac. Keep it up!
-Sean C. Sabot Fleet Captain at Westlake Yacht Club
Godspeed home....
Zac,
I'm doing some catch up on your blog, so even though I asked if you knew that Robin Graham was a Christian, I read today that..... wow...... you actually got a note from him with a Bible verse. Cool.
I'm for your effort and wish you total success.
C-18
Hey Zac, reading up on your journey while I sit in my cubicle. Makes the day pass faster and is much more entertaining than the traffic in downtown Atlanta.
I have always enjoyed the water, born in raised in Miami, lived in Southern Alaska, and now reside far from the beach. My problem (newly discovered) is that I get terribly sea-sick. Now, keep in mind, I have been deep-sea fishing, and have always "cruised" on boats, but I guess the swells are really what do me in.
I now have a huge fear that I may never overcome my sea-sickness. Have you ever experienced it? I know you've been sailing since you could walk, so it may never have bothered you, but I fear I will completely dehydrate (again) and never make it past the dock.
Any suggestions? I was once told by some S. Africans to eat mostly cereal, and to tie a a belt as tight as possible around my waist, but I'm pretty sure that was one of those "it hurts so badly, that you won't think about being sick" scenarios.
Anyways, just curious if an avid sailor had any remedies for me, you see, I'd like to sail again, but would prefer to remember it this time!!!
Have a good one Zac!
~Alana
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