Friday, July 11, 2008

Welcome to Paradise!

Intrepid under sail off Diamond Head




Current Position: Ala Wai Boat Harbor, Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu. Will get the coordinates tomorrow off the boat.








Ok so last night I picked up some wind about 30 miles out of the Kawiii Channel, the passage between Mokakai and Oahu which is notorious for bad sea conditions. The wind built up to about 15 knots by the time I reached the channel. I reached the channel at 12:30am and set my course for Diamond Head. The channel was a little choppy and I got a couple waves in the cockpit. At around 2:00am one came over the side of the boat and soaked me. It was a warm night so it wasn't bad actually- helped me stay up. I was up all last night navigating around ships and studying charts. I reached Diamond Head around 4am and called my mom who told me I was going to have to stand off the harbor till the reporters got there at 9am....... just what I want be doing after being out at sea for three weeks and not sleeping all night! O well, so at around 9:30am a boat packed with camera crews and reporters came out and got some footage of me sailing (well if you can call it that - the wind pretty much stopped after I got around Diamond Head). They guided me in to the Ala Wai Harbor. I docked up and hopped off the boat, got my lei (purple flower necklace). I did a few interviews, locked up the boat and headed off to my parents hotel. We hit the lunch buffet where I ate a little of everything (amazing pineapple!) and slept for a couple hrs. The shower was awesome.


Tonight we just hung out at the hotel and watched some of my video log and ate some more good food. Lots of talk about plans, work and fun. We'll figure it all out tomorrow...


Cheers,


Zac

88 Comments:

Blogger Unknown said...

Aloha Zak, Now relax, enjoy, wallow in the well deserved fame and stop worrying about posting. There will be plenty of time for that in the days to come.

July 12, 2008 at 2:58 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

ZACINATOR!!!!
Let me know what fish equiptment U need. I can get it at a tackle shop and send it to the boat. Rest up.

July 12, 2008 at 3:20 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Aloha e Zac,
Brah, so stoked for you! I hope you get more from Hawai'i than jus a purple lei. Hit the beach, snorkel Hanauma Bay, hike the mountains and eat a lot of poi while you're here. Your ambition is inspiring! I'm sure you've read up on the Polynesian Voyaging Society, so you know how important sailing is for the people of Hawai'i nei. May tha wind be at your back, and best of luck!

Aloha,
Eddie
Palolo, O'ahu, Hawai'i

P.S. Eat at Rainbow's Drive In on Kapahulu if u get a chance!

July 12, 2008 at 3:29 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Marie and daycare kids say
relax rest enjoy!!
Marie

July 12, 2008 at 5:46 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I think the flower necklace is spelled "l-e-i", and not [chuckle] how you had it. Amazing how a couple wrong letters can drastically alter the meaning of a sentence, haha.

Congratulations. Can't wait to follow the rest of the journey.

July 12, 2008 at 6:19 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Zac you made it. Hurray! Get some good food in you and some rest. Charley and Josh

July 12, 2008 at 6:42 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Here is a little News Video about Zac

http://kgmb9.com/main/content/view/8158/40/

July 12, 2008 at 6:44 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Here's some more news:http://starbulletin.com/2008/07/12/news/story03.html

Dusty

July 12, 2008 at 6:48 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I had to chuckle awhile when I read that part where you had to wait for reporters!
Your a celeberty of sorts now and because you waited,you understand that.It all comes with the territory.
Maturity,there isn't a 16 year old boy sailing out there,We all have a young man showing us that dreams still do come true,if we have the drive.
Some say the isolation is the hardest part,just like the person you are and you will enjoy the company when alone.
Good luck
straight wakes!
Mike S.

July 12, 2008 at 7:02 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

July 12, 2008 at 7:30 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi ZAc,

cool huh in hawaii? enjoy urslef..

tillnexttime
xoxo
mel

July 12, 2008 at 7:42 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

I received a fantastic email from Daryl today. As I told Daryl, the following paragraph is the reason a 66 year old guy takes time out of his busy day to read a blog written by a 16 year old kid that needs a haircut.

Zak is an amazing kid. With all of the problems that I read about everyday in the L.A. and N.Y. Times, the gangs, the drugs, the poor school scores, and my experience with raising 40 foster kids and seeing their many successes and some failures, reading his blog is the balance that I need to know that the world is not really going to hell in a handbasket after all and there is a future for mankind when the current kids grow up.

Thank you Daryl, and a big thank you to Rory for the "ZACINATOR" and to Axel for the link to the video.

Of course, a VERY BIG thanks to Zak for making this all possible. You are couragous, smart, resourceful, an inspriation, BUT, you still need a haircut!! Actually you need a whole bunch of them cut. And do it before a Booby Bird flys over your head. And if one does before your haircut, just thank your lucky stars that cows do not fly. :-)

July 12, 2008 at 7:43 AM  
Blogger Scot said...

Thought I'd bring over the news articles from yesterday's thread in case anyone missed them:

The ABC station

The NBC station

I'm unable to get that starbulletin link to open...anyone else?

July 12, 2008 at 7:52 AM  
Blogger Kate said...

Congrats! You've finally made it! Bet it's nice to finally be on land again, no? Must be a little strange to be around all those people again, though.

Great job!

Safe journey,
~Kate~

July 12, 2008 at 8:03 AM  
Blogger Scot said...

Also remember that SAIL magazine will have a piece in the next issue about Zac's trip.

July 12, 2008 at 8:07 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Just use
www.starbulletin.com

July 12, 2008 at 8:37 AM  
Blogger Gordon Brimhall said...

Hi Zac

Glad you made it in but sorry to hear you waited 5 hours out in the channel for the reporters.

You and the safety of your boat comes first.

A prudent sailor will wait offshore for first light so they can get in safely but to wait 5 hours for some Jerk Off reporters that are only thinking of themselves is totally unsat.

This trip of yours should be about sailing around the world safely.

I didn't see in any of your posts about wearing a safety harness while you are up on deck. Do you have a safety harness and a jackline to attach it to?

How much storm sailing have you done?

I only make my comments and ask these questions because I want you to make it home safe and that is a long long way to go.

Another thing, Do Not take Anybody Onboard Your Boat In Any Passage. You will not get the record. tania learned the hard way be taking a native from one island over to another being a good guy.

Enjoy your stay in Hawaii and think safety from here on out

Gordon and Tina

July 12, 2008 at 8:39 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac with harness.
http://www.kitv.com/video/16860447/index.html

July 12, 2008 at 8:51 AM  
Blogger Dana said...

Dear Zac,I'm glad you made it to Hawii,well I just wanted to let you know that I'm glad that you're at Hawii. love, Kylie Vanhove
(7 yrs old, Santa Monica)

July 12, 2008 at 9:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey buddy ! we are watching you here in Canada !

Well done, sounds like it's going well.

Bradders
In Amherstburg Ontario.

July 12, 2008 at 9:27 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

web guys..... with the new layout of the site I am now getting scripting errors when accessing site from my cell phone. Just thought I'd let you know since some people may be checking for updates via cell and not the web.

Thanks!

July 12, 2008 at 10:12 AM  
Blogger NancyP said...

Zac, you are an inspiration to all of us. I can't wait to read your blog each day. As a retired teacher I am so proud of you.

July 12, 2008 at 10:18 AM  
Blogger Gleaming Waters said...

Aloha Zac!
What a beautiful shot of you and boat off Diamond Head.
You've only just begun, but just beginning is usually the hardest, congratulations!
God Speed,
Tamara

July 12, 2008 at 10:47 AM  
Blogger Douglas Pistone said...

Hello Zac,

I'm so glad you made it. Enjoy your time with your family and friends. Hopefully you'll be able to attach the Hawaii reports onto your website.

Have a great time and enjoy the showers. Your feet are back on land!!!


Have Fun,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California

July 12, 2008 at 11:42 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Aloha mai Zac!

Welcome once again to your first stop on your record attempt, and your first visit to Hawai'i! Hope all is well and that you got the sleep you needed and deserved. I wish you nothing but the best on this adventure.

I am, as a commenter charitably put it, one of the Jerk Off Reporters, and someone who has been, casually, on the ocean (mainly outside Kane'ohe Bay on a cabin cruiser), and someone who has nothing but extreme admiration for sailors and navigators, including master navigator Nainoa Thompson, captain of the Hokule'a and member of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, and someone I consider a friend.

Just so the folks out there know, the news orgs (including mine) got many of your e-mails, so we had a heads up about Zac and his arrival. I had therefore been following his progress on this blog, and the last entry I saw had him off Moloka'i. On Friday, we were given a press release telling us to be at the yacht club by 9 am. I called to make sure the time was right, and then when I got there, that's when I found out that Zac was parked offshore.

Two of the three other television stations also came, and those reporters and myself all work the morning show, which means we come in at 3 a.m. to work. So it would've been easy to cover if the press release said to be there at 3 or 4 a.m.

From what I could tell, one of the reasons for the, besides waiting for media scrum, is that a crew is filming a documentary of the voyage; there are several cameras aboard Intrepid recording what Zac does. There was a documentary cameraman along with us on the chase boat, and more at the yacht club. And when I commented to Marianne about Zac having to wait, we had a little chuckle about video of a little green light and a little red light against pitch black, and saying it's Zac arriving in Hawai'i. I wouldn't have cared myself, but, for better or for worse, television photographers, for some reason, have a tendency to want to see what's happening.

Once we were ashore, we held back a bit so Zac could spend some time with his family and sip his virgin Mai Tai, but we also wanted to get out of the way, so I tried to get the interview done (all crews at once, so Zac wouldn't have to repeat everything four times) so the whole Sunderland gang could get on with the rest of the day.

I, too, am hoping he gets more sponsors, and I'll try to post a bit more information on the KITV Web site.

Aloha and mahalo, especially to Laurence and Marianne Sunderland for their help, Hawai'i Yacht Club Vice Commodore Howie Mednick for his hospitality, and straight wakes ahead for Zac!

A hui hou,
Ben Gutierrez
KITV 4 Island Television News

July 12, 2008 at 11:52 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

hey Zac-er-man...

now that you've tasted the wackiness of wikiki... you'll be longing for those star filled quiet nights on the open ocean...LOL
think about pickin up a used bike and have you're dad take the front wheel off so you can pedal staionarilty at sea... keep your leg strength up... especially when you hit stretches of calm...
you're gonna need your legs the last thing you need is atrophy...
i hope you're keeping a personal diary of your thoughts an emotions...highs and lows... the euphoria as well as the fears... it'll be the core and root of your book...
take care my friend,
don't be shy in giving and taking hugs... they'll carry you a long way when things get unbearble...
your in our prayers...
mark n adino... vicksburg, ms. USA

July 12, 2008 at 1:31 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey, when did the Clearpoint weather link show up? I only noticed that we can see the weather conditons on today's blog.

July 12, 2008 at 4:04 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Congratulations Zac,
You have suceeded in making the first leg of your trip. I am so proud of you. I read your blog daily and am enjoying living the dream along with you. You are doing an awesome thing and doing it well. Enjoy your down time in Hawaii with your family.
Aloha,
Esther

July 12, 2008 at 5:28 PM  
Blogger Staci said...

I am keeping up with you from Canada as well. Congrats on making it to Hawaii! I hope it' snot too hard to get back on the boat to head back out.
Staci

July 12, 2008 at 5:49 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac's mom here...
Thanks for your perspective Ben.
I'd like to comment on the media side of Zac's adventure and clarify where we all stand on the subject.
First of all it is important to know that this is Zac's trip; it was his idea to go and his idea to attempt to break the record. Besides his love for sailing, he has been an avid videographer for years and had his first video camera when he was just 12 years old. One of his goals in taking this trip is to document it on film and make a documentary and also to write a book. Books and documentaries don't sell if no one knows about them!
Although it can be difficult being in the press, we are happy to do so. Many good people worked hard to keep tabs on Zac's arrival and to notify the press for us. On Friday morning when Zac arrived in Waikiki, we gave him the choice to come in or stand off. We also give him the choice to stop or continue this journey. So far he has chosen to accomodate the media and to press on but we will support Zac in what ever choices he makes.
Hope this helps to clarify where we stand on this.
Thanks again for your support!
Marianne Sunderland

July 12, 2008 at 7:15 PM  
Blogger Scot said...

I'd like to express my thanks to the media as well. And thanks to Ben Gutierrez of KITV for not only following this and being there but for your perspective. I agree with you 100%...and very eloquently put by the way. I've mentioned on here before that I've worked for the media, both television and radio, and I've spent years in video and film production so I know you didn't have to cover this story, but media coverage is beneficial to Zac, and the growing number of people following it.

Anyway...there won't be a lot of press at every stop. Some will be quite quiet and uneventful, in which case Zac will have to be our "jerk-off reporter" and we'll look forward to it. My wife's already calling me a Zacaholic.

July 12, 2008 at 7:47 PM  
Blogger Daryl said...

The article in Star Bulletin was great! Thanks to Dusty for the link. I enjoyed the pictures, too. That Baby Ben is a handsome tot, that's for sure.

July 12, 2008 at 7:58 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Nice work on your report, Ben. Thanks for the update, and for your input.

Ben Gutierrez
KITV 4 Island Television News
http://www.kitv.com/video/16860447/index.html

Zac, don't be too distracted by backseat drivers. You know what you need to do. Your parents trust your decisions and your senses of responsibility. So should we.

The way I view it, if you needed someone to hold your hand, you wouldn't be doing this in the first place.

I for one am happy with, and supportive of your decisions. I love anticipating them, and reading your reports of progress.

Lee / MDR

July 12, 2008 at 8:42 PM  
Blogger Dana said...

Marianne and level-headed supporters like Ben Gutierrez...

Keep your chins up. What a lovely young man. What a courageous journey.

Detractors: take a quiet, deep breath and think about the state of the world, your life, your street...exhale...appreciate...enjoy.

Dana
Santa Monica

July 12, 2008 at 11:11 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

July 12, 2008 at 11:34 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,

I hope you're enjoying your first landfall. I've read your blog and all the comments every day since you set off. Who needs books and TV when you're there! Sincerely, thanks!

Thanks a lot Marianne and also Ben Gutierrez for your helpfull and very informative comments. There are two sides to every story and it is too easy to jump to the wrong conclusion. I admire your balanced, reasoned judgement Marianne. I thought your report was very well done Ben.

Marinne, you've had a lot of very well deserved compliments and I just can't imagine how you cope with all your responsibilities with such a large family and the huge ammount of time and energy you are devoting to Zac's adventure. Hang in there and keep smiling, there are lots of folk out here rooting for you as well as your eldest.

All the best to Team Sunderland (and you too Ben)

July 13, 2008 at 1:14 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Aloha Captain Zac!

You had an amazing trip and you tell your story well. I too am a Zacaholic and you are the first thing I read with my morning coffee every day!

Congrats to you and your family. Don't let all the nay sayers bother you. I am sure if you listened to all the skeptics before you left you would have never made the journey to start with. You are a courageous man and do not let anyone make your decisions for you. Please do not let the arm chair sailors who know nothing about standing off a harbor take up a minute of your thoughts.

Thank you Marrianne for posting the blog everyday. It's funny how one skipped day last week threw everyone into a worried panic. (Kind of like now.. I am a little worried about Peter. Did he fly out to Hawaii to welcome Zac to port? lol) THanks for your latest post regarding the media and the blog attacks that you guys have been getting. I hopes that it clarifies things for some people.

And Bill.. you are too funny with the hair cut comment. (I know you were joking lol) Your hair looks great Zac but as a retired sailor with long hair... I do have to say it is a pain in the butt to keep clean and to get a trim when you need one. Salt water does not rinse out too well. The last of your worries I am sure!

I can't wait to see the footage of the Boobie. I travelled 17,000 NM and never had a bird fly into my mainsail. And of all things he perched his little boobie butt on your tiller. Hope he was Okay. I saw tons of Blue Footed Boobies in the Galopagas but never any at sea around Hawaii. too funny.

Have fun, provision well, enjoy your family and shove off. It is always hard to leave port after a long passage.

My favorite Hawaiin music... Kau Krater Boys (spelling may be off)... pick some up while you are there.

Tammy

July 13, 2008 at 4:13 AM  
Blogger davejb851 said...

Zac,
Just got back from Scout Camp, so I've been anxious to check your updates........Man, I'm so glad your safe in Hawaii, doing the R&R thing with the family.
I've got family with a place in Maui, so I know what da' islands can be like......enjoy it completely.

As always, relax, recharge, restock, and rejoice.....then get your sealegs and get going again. Lots of people are living this through you....great job!
Dave

July 13, 2008 at 5:20 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Well - long hair are a safety device - it protects you from the sun LOL. Other than that I hope Zac has a great time on the island
Axel

July 13, 2008 at 6:54 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Good morning Zak,

The surfing that you and Will are doing, sounded fun. Any pics or video?

How is the marine growth on the hull? Are you planning to dry dock to do a scrubbing at every stop, or are you good for zinks and bottom paint for the whole world trip?

I had to laugh about your comment about 'it's pretty boring, actually', on the news. You may come to a point on your trip that you will long for being bored. Hey, I wanted to let you know what I did at your age to cut down the boredom and make those long legs seem like nothing. The boats were filled with Louis L'amour and I got tired of reading them (They were read several times), so I looked to more challenging content. I picked up text books and manuals that interested me. If I did not know about navigating by the stars, I studied it. If I wondered about the physics of Hygrogen, I studied it. I made maps and notes, with some ideas leading me down paths that demanded a hasty search for another book at the next port of call.

I envy your fresh start at 16 years old. It is like you have a clean slate, and you can draw on it as you will.

Good drawing, and we pray that you choose wisely.

Jerry

July 13, 2008 at 8:06 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Axel and all others.

The haircut remark was a feeble attempt at humor by an ex-New Yorker. It was my way of praising Zac (there, I got his name right this time) without giving him a swelled head. I have raised enough teenagers (93) to know that it is not what is on the head that counts, it is what is inside the head that is important. No one can complain about what is inside the head of this remarkable young man.

Zac, you look GREAT!! Now get a haircut.

Talking about looking great, I decided that having my ugly face staring out at the readers is a disservice to the blog so I have posted one where you get to see me doing what I love to do rather than looking at my ugly puss.

Another aside. I have never been on a sailboat in my life. I used to own a 21' Rinell deep V that I kept at Marina Del Rey. However I would get seasick when I stood on the trailer to get the cover off, which was a prelude to how sick I would get when I actually put the damn thing in the water. It was used to allow a blind boy that I was raising to do what he loved to do, namely waterski. I sold it a week after Jim graduated UCLA and moved out on his own.

My apologies to anyone I may have offended. Bill Mann

July 13, 2008 at 8:14 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

hey right on Bill, you da MAN,(ever heard that before?)i love reading all the comments and usually someone like you will say pretty much what's on my mind, so i've become more of a passive observer.
i am a little concerned about Peter though?hope he's ok,

July 13, 2008 at 8:42 AM  
Blogger Gleaming Waters said...

I, for one, always like to know peoples motives or intentions right from the start, so I am paying attention to what people are not saying, as much as what they are saying. I feel I have a right to know, considering Zac has a website, blog, etc., what is at the heart of his voyage/adventure. Now that Marianne has made it clear I can make a choice to continue following Zac's journey for what it is, an adventure! I don't have to concern myself with the media aspect, if I'm bothered by it, just enjoy his daily reports.
I think I will probably buy his book,too. :>}
Sail on,
Tamara

July 13, 2008 at 9:04 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

And meanwhile, sail on Zac! Let your parents deal with the likes of us.

Where did Peter go? I liked his posts, because they dove beyond the water line and swam in the dark waters of thought.

July 13, 2008 at 9:19 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

uBill...
Love your posts..
I have never blogged much till now... so I hope I have not offended you or anyone else for that matter.
Not my intention.

Marrianne,

I can only imagine how I would feel if it were my 16 year old son at sea alone. I can only hope that the luxury of modern technology aboard is somewhat of a comfort to you and your family as you talk to your son everyday from afar.

Hope that all the Sunderlands have a good time in Hawaii.

Tammy

July 13, 2008 at 2:51 PM  
Blogger Marilyn said...

Interesting post from Gordon Brimhall about not taking anyone aboard during the solo sail, or he may not break the record. Is that just when sailing, or can Zac's parents and others go aboard the boat when it is docked? Are there any other regulations he has to be aware of while on his trek?

Way to go, Zac! I read your blog every day and look forward to reading most of the comments as well. As you know, you can't please all of the people all of the time, and it isn't worth trying. I like that you are just being yourself and doing what you want to do (and let that hair grow if you want to!).

Marilyn
Woodland Hills, CA

July 13, 2008 at 3:01 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac:

My favorite form of entertainment at the moment is keeping up with your blog on the Great Adventure and I hope that you are having as much fun as I am. Why shouldn't I enjoy it? You're doing all the heavy lifting.

You're even good for a chuckle. I'm sure you've already been called on it, but the purple flowers were a lei, not a lay. If you don't know why that's funny, ask your dad.

Happiness right now is knowing that you have a safe and sound passage to Hawaii. With your skills, attitude, and family support, I've no doubts that we're going to complete this adventure in great form!

Sail on,
FrogPond

July 13, 2008 at 4:51 PM  
Blogger Scot said...

Marilyn,

That's an interesting question. And I too thought the warning from Gordon to not give anyone a ride or a quick lift from here to there was a interesting point.

I'll make my guess though on the "while docked" part. I would guess that others on the boat would be ok only when docked for service/maintenance or repairs. Sort of a pit stop if you will. But he would absolutely have to be alone anytime he's underway.

I'd be interested in hearing from Guinness.

July 13, 2008 at 5:08 PM  
Blogger Gordon Brimhall said...

Answer to Marilyn
Woodland Hills, CA


Zac can have guests onboard while in port in any country. Only he cannot take someone on his boat and sail from Point A to Point B

If so it would not be a singlehanded Circumnavagation. Tania gave a local native a ride from one small island over a short distance to another island and it impacted her record for being the youngest women to sail around the world alone. I thought it was not fair but that is the way it is.

I have a problem with my upcoming attempt in my 9' 6" Spray as do the guys leaving in their 10 ft boats going thru the Panama Canal. The authorities say we cannot go thru in a small boat and have to go on a barge or over land. If we do then the record is shot because we have to sail around the world.

So it will force us to go around the horn which is not a very nice place even for big boats.

I give Zac my best and I didn't mean to be bad to the reporters. They are helping in so many ways.

Gordon and Tine
www.aroundinten.org

July 13, 2008 at 5:20 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,

Enjoying your adventure via daily blog. My 4 yr old son also has a similar hair style and a sense for adventure. I’ll be sure to buy him your book once it comes out. Now, while you have a chance, go get a haircut!

July 13, 2008 at 7:22 PM  
Blogger Fulgum said...

Hi, Zac. I'm glad your Mom posted the pic of the Intrepid. I didn't realize how TALL the mast was. Geez! If there is ever a problem with your sail, you have to go all the way up to fix it! That's a LONG way when you're by yourself with no help or assistance. It's also more challenging when you're in choppy or rough waters. Be careful!

I'm sure your tenure in Hawaii is almost up. Next stop, Marshall Islands!

Good luck!

Scott
:)

July 13, 2008 at 10:42 PM  
Blogger Edo Passarella said...

WOW! That's a spot! Keep going Zac.

July 14, 2008 at 1:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi.
Is there something wrong with the hit counter. 2 days ago it was already at 312 yesterday it went back to 287. Hm strange.
Hope you still have fun in Hawaii
Axel

July 14, 2008 at 5:01 AM  
Blogger Vasyl Pawlowsky said...

Zak,

Great to hear that you got into harbor safely. I'm sure you appreciated the shower, but like others have said, enjoy all there is to in Hawaii..

Cheerz from Kyiv Ukraine.

July 14, 2008 at 5:49 AM  
Blogger VerityBanks said...

Thank you Marianne regarding your post about the media and Zac's wishes. With the example of how everything regarding this adventure has been executed by your family, it should have been apparent that Zac is not being "forced" to do anything, by anyone. Your communication with and support of Zac in his adventure is such a wonderful testament to what parenting should be for all of us. While it must be trying at times, I'm glad Zac's getting the media coverage and documentation of his trip - my family will buy the book, see the movie, rent the video, read the blog - because the world needs more families like yours and adventurers like Zac to remind us all how to support each other and live our dreams. I think the more people that can learn of his journey, the better.

The McKissics - Tom, Brooke, & Connor
Raleigh NC

p.s. Connor (almost 4) loved the story about the Booby Bird. He runs around the house making very loud air horn noises at random intervals. Thanks. ;)

July 14, 2008 at 7:19 AM  
Blogger Gordon Brimhall said...

I want to say thank you for reading my posts and Just to be clear I am not trying to second guess Zac's Mom or Dad on the planning and information they have already worked out. I do not know what all has been done before the trip.

I would assume that they have made application to the governing body they hope to satisfy for any record attempt.

Have Passport in hand.

In the back of Serge Testa's book "500 Days" is some info from Genniess World records that would be good reading.

Joshua Slocum after he cleared into a port and was staying for awhile sometimes took locals for little sailing rides around the local area and that was ok back then.

Zac is an Insperation to all, just like Tania Aebi was for me 20 plus years ago.

Gordon and Tina
www.aroundinten.org

July 14, 2008 at 7:33 AM  
Blogger Scot said...

Marianne,

You don't have to post this up, but I noticed that you've been forced to turn on the moderation feature. It's a shame when dealing with the public there are always those too immature. I guess you can say they feel some perverse need to "rock the boat"...or "make waves."

Sorry you had to do it but it'll be better in keeping this all positive. Unfortunately it's more work and unfortunately there are those like that.

Thanks for all you're doing.

July 14, 2008 at 8:39 AM  
Blogger Douglas Pistone said...

Hello Zac,

Since we haven't seen another blog I'm sure he's having a great time. Hopefully we won't see many while on the Island. Zac and family enjoy your time in the Island and get all the rest and relaxation you need to continue your journey.

Aloha,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California

July 14, 2008 at 8:49 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To Zac's parents...I would like to congratulate you on raising such a strong minded, strong willed and just plain STRONG young man. I truly admire you for helping your son achieve this scary thing; for realizing that seventeen isn't a little kid any more and for trusting his abilities. I have a son almost Zac's age and I would like to think I could do it, too. This gives me a whole new perspective on my fears about letting my son go on a roadtrip with his friends.

Good luck to you all and please know that there are people all over the world holding all of you in their thoughts and sending their best wishes.

I know Zac is enjoying his time in Hawaii, but I am jonesing for some more sailing entries (vicarious living, I guess)...when is he expected to head out again?

BTW, sign me up for a copy of the book!!

July 14, 2008 at 8:53 AM  
Blogger Douglas Pistone said...

Hello Zac,

I'm sure since we don't see new posts your having a great time. Have fun with your family and friends and enjoy your time away from Intrepid. Please let all your rest and relaxation done before heading out to see again. Hope your having a wonderful time on the Island.

Aloha,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California

July 14, 2008 at 9:06 AM  
Blogger johnnyBgood said...

zac --hope you can fit in some 'play time' while in waikiki.
john baker/hollywood/ca/USofA

July 14, 2008 at 10:49 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Aloha Zac
Pineapple is awsum!
Get some rest
Kodiak Mike

July 14, 2008 at 11:26 AM  
Blogger Krys said...

Zac, As a sailor on a 26' Islander Bahama, I feel like a kindred soul. Every day I'm awed and amazed by your journey. We love keeping track of how you're doing -- your journey is often a topic of the dinner table in my home. :D

Best of luck to you from Lake Superior, port of Duluth, Minnesota!
-Krystal

July 14, 2008 at 11:35 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

hey zac-er-man...
best beach to go to on oahu with out exception...
"bellow's" beach park over on the waimanalo side of the island,
white powder soft sand with rabbit island in the background,
of course if you want to snorkel "hanamauah bay" like being in a giant aquarium, just remember you cant see it all "this trip" just get a taste and you'll be back to visit the other seven islands each like a jewel unique in their own right...
and the people so so special in hawaii... lotsa aloha for you and your family,
have fun enjoying your "shore leave"...lol, pick up a book on "constellations" too and a good set of binoculars...you probably already have...
you're in our thoughts and prayers
mark n adino

July 14, 2008 at 2:32 PM  
Blogger Beetlejuice said...

Aloha Zac!-Any surfing in store?! Barry,Newport Beach,Ca

July 14, 2008 at 4:07 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Aloha Zac,

been following your adventure since I saw post on our clubs (www.cal-sailing.org) email list and will be following it in the future.

Isn't Hawai'i great? I was always wondering since I saw the planed route, why wasn't Hawai'i in the original planing?

Mast- und Schotbruch und immer eine Handbreit Wasser unterm Kiel (German sailor greeting)
RK

July 14, 2008 at 5:06 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,

I'm sure that the time you have with your family is passing all to quickly. Hope that all of your repairs, provisioning, etc. is going well. I'll wait patiently for your next blog. Strong winds when you leave port!

You bet I'll buy your book!

Best to your wonderful family!
Nancy in Palm Springs

July 14, 2008 at 5:55 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac,

This just will not do, it will not do, I say!

The wind is blowing and you are enjoying, not the sea, but Hawaii!

This will not do, it can not be! The blog is checked over and over, but your not even looking over your shoulder.

The rest of us are being left hanging. The ocean is begging the Intrepid's changing. From a dock side floater to the 16 year old voyager, we've all come to be so fond of.

July 14, 2008 at 6:58 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Come on Zac---lets get sailing!! Time;s a wasting while you dine at buffets and sleeping. I want to see your journey get on its way....put those sails up and GO_______________________oh and I hope you got your hair cut before your leave.

July 14, 2008 at 7:33 PM  
Blogger Bead said...

Hi Zac, Hope the stopover and re-provisioning is going well, I am reading Robin Lee Graham and Dove and I'm up to his stopover in Hawaii. He mentions that you throw the Leis in the water when you leave ...as the custom goes it means that one day you will return to the Isles of Hawaii. As before ...all the best to you and your family

Glenys Carr
Auckland New Zealand

July 14, 2008 at 10:56 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

hello zac,

i am planning to write a little something on your trip around the world... I mean, it's a real adventure... and you are only 16...

when you are about to reach the indian ocean, particularly Mauritius, please let me know...
cheers
ARI

July 15, 2008 at 1:41 AM  
Blogger Lisa said...

Congradulations Zac! You are truly an inspiration!

Lisa

July 15, 2008 at 5:42 AM  
Blogger Lisa said...

Congradulations Zac! You are truly an inspiration!

Lisa

July 15, 2008 at 5:44 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Does anyone know when Zac will be sailing off again? I am missing his blogs and wondering what he's been doing. I didn't realize he would stay so long on land.

July 15, 2008 at 6:55 AM  
Blogger Jim Kline said...

Congratulations, Zac, on your safe arrival in Hawaii. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you continue what I hope will be a safe and successful record-setting voyage!

July 15, 2008 at 8:17 AM  
Blogger Marilyn said...

Not much happening here while Zac is busy preparing for his next leg, so I thought I'd add a suggestion for whomever thought the white writing on blue background on his blog was difficult to read. If you become a "Google Reader" subscriber (http://www.google.com/reader), you can read his blog in black text on a white background any time you want. I personally think it's fine the way it is.

Marilyn
Woodland Hills

July 15, 2008 at 9:33 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac, When is your plan to set sail again? Just curious, love the action commentary from the high seas!!! Mr. Wahoo

July 15, 2008 at 10:06 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey, Zac. When do you plan to set sail again. Love the commentary from the high seas!! Mr. Wahoo Catch big fish

July 15, 2008 at 10:11 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey Zac

July 15, 2008 at 10:14 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What happened to the website?
Nothing for days?

July 15, 2008 at 10:29 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac,
Enjoy your break and your family. We look forward to reading about your journey ahead! You're awesome!

July 15, 2008 at 2:30 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

ok team sunderland, i know zac is busy with all that he has to do. But could some memeber of "Team Sunderland", please post something...... anything..... "gone fishing" would do just fine..........

July 15, 2008 at 6:51 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Well, done boy, well done. I am glad you made it safely to Hawaii. Rest up, see your family and friends. Soak up their attention. You deserve it.
I am the teacher from Louisiana who will be using your trip via the blog, to help my kids understand coordinates. We will also discuss the adverntures you have and how those events may coincide with those early explorers in the Age of Discovery.
I look forward to following your progress. We begin school on August 7th.
God's blessing and peace to you.

July 15, 2008 at 7:16 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac,
Hope you are getting the rest and visits you need.
We are all missing hearing from you. I am reading Dove right now and personally find it a better read than Tanias book. I found her story a little on the sad side.
But, that's JMHO.
Give your mom and dad great big hugs. They deserve it!
xoxo
DZ
Ps..... How are you feeling? Let me know.

July 15, 2008 at 8:29 PM  
Blogger Tomi said...

A couple of fyi's for my fellow blog commenters.
- Guinness is quite strict on qualifying rules, documentation is one of the reasons why I'm guessing the Sunderland Family has chosen to outfit Zac's vessel w/cameras (along w/the documentary we all hope to view when Zac has completed his voyage).
- (based upon my Grandad's voyages across the Northern Hemisphere Seas/Oceans - a Captain of a number of power yachts for many years) this port stop/delay is to repair (see zac's previous blog entries), reprovision, test the repairs, & lastly, but not least, ensure the provisions will last until the next port of call (again, see Zac's previous blog entries).
- Home-schooling is stricter in the requirements the students must meet to graduate. The fact Zac is continuing studies during most public schoools Summer break is a testament to his dedication to his education & his Parents' attention to his higher learning. (My brother has 2 of his 6 children home-schooled due to our public schools inability to instruct them according to their talents/higher intelligence.)
- Zac's next leg is one of his more challenging to date. We are are entering the start of the stormiest part of the Northern Pacific hurricane season. He needs to cross the Tropical Convergence Zone *before* it gets too rough. Zac is about to cross many areas where coral reefs are only, at some points, a couple of fathoms deep (a fathom is 6 feet American). My guess is the Sunderlands are planning his course including these & several other factors unknown to us readers.
- We are supporting not only Zac in this achievement, but his Family in keeping in contact & provisioning him during his circumnavation. The website has been updated w/a link to donate no matter what page you're viewing (exception blog comment entries). Please take a few minutes & support the Sunderlands & especially Zac in his record breaking attempt - even if it's only a couple dollars/dineros/yen/pounds/marcs (or the currency of your country).

To the Sunderlands, thank YOU for supporting us, blog commenters, readers. Many of us will endeavour to input supportive comments & congratulations on each point of achievement Zac makes during this circumnavigation.

Lastly (at least in this post), please keep all of the Sunderlands in your daily prayers/positive thoughts - this is an endeavour their entire Family is striving to help Zac achieve.

Hugs!
tomi of ATL

July 15, 2008 at 8:35 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac

Great job and very excited about your trip. I am addicted to following your trip and looking for as much video,pictures of the boat and trip.

I only hope someday I can break away from the grind to follow in your wake.

Jerry
Newport Beach,Ca

July 15, 2008 at 10:17 PM  
Blogger Jakkobigboy said...

Zac,
I am so happy you have had a great time in Hawaii with your family. Thank you for every post! My husband and I wake up each morning to read how your night went. Please be safe and cant wait to hear about your next post!

Maria

July 16, 2008 at 10:37 PM  
Blogger Glen said...

Hi, my name is Glen Ingouville, I'm fron Buenos Aires, Argentina. Taking a look in YouTube Web Page, and I found your Adventure...CONGRATULATIONS. Thank to Marianne Sunderland I found your blog & I can Write a coment. I use the Google Earth to determine your location on the Pacific using the coordinate that you write, I spect can make a map of all your trip arround the WORLD and when the time's come , send you by Email.AGAIN CONGRATULATION for YOUR GREATE ADVENTURE & take CARE....

July 21, 2008 at 3:04 PM  

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