Mauritius Fun and Photos
Latest Position: 12/03/08 0600Z 27 46.068S 45 47.913E
Weather here is holding pretty steady. Though I haven't been becalmed again, the wind is light and shifting continually. I was up a lot in the evening changing my sails around to accommodate the shifty winds. I am thankful to be moving though, slow as it is. My Clearpoint weather forecast shows there is a storm forming off of Madagascar today. I am the prescribed 150 miles off shore so I hope that I stay clear of any danger. I took some time yesterday between jobs to type a bit about the last few days of time I spent in Mauritius. Photos are courtesy of Richard Munisamy...
Also, during my stay Richard managed to get us a free trip out to one of the outer islands in a big catamaran. It was about a 2 hour ride to get to Flat Island where we dropped anchor, got a ride into the beach and had a BBQ. We hung out on the beach and I met 2 local girls, Ashley and Kate, from another boat (there were about 6 other charters there that day). We hung out for a few hours and were able to switch to the other boat for the ride back.
I was also able to do an under sea walk where you wear a big metal helmet kind of like the old metal scuba masks, and walk on the bottom of the ocean to have a look around.
On the day before I left, a friend of mine, Alex, managed to get me a ticket to a club opening. It was supposed to be a great time with a DJ visiting from Italy. I got introduced to the DJ, Giulia Regain, and we hit it off and spent the evening at her VIP party above the Beach House. I also really enjoyed my visit with the American ambassador's house in Mauritius. I have had a great time getting to know the local people here. As always, most people are friendly and helpful - awesome!
Signing autographs at the Grand Baie Yacht Club
With the Grand Baie Yacht Club Junior Sailing Club
posted by Zac at
8:03 AM
37 Comments:
What an awesome time you must have had in Mauritius. "... and we changed to the other boat for the trip back." The 'other boar' wasn't just coincidentally the one with the two beautiful young ladies, was it? This trip just gets better and better.
The photos are great and we all thank Mr. Manisamy for contributing them! Zac, you seem to be meeting some wonderful, friendly, and helpful in your ports of call. Are they inherently what they seem to be, or is it just that you draw out the best in people? There are good people everywhere but usually they shy away. You and your adventure have a magnetism that is a force.
It's great that you can carve out a little time to post these entries, but you know what? Now we miss Marianne a little bit and knowing what is going on with the rest of Team Sunderland! Why don't you reverse the tables and give us a report on them from your vantage point.
It all looks good at the moment. Hope that it continues as such, but it appears that you are prepared for anything. Don't get caiught by any surprises.
The Croaker
This is some of the fun we wish for you at your ports. Sounds like a truly nice time despite the need for work and repairs. Wishing you more fun and adventures and clear sailing to your next destination.
The Tanguay Family
(Santa Cruz, CA)
Are you serious Zac? Kate and Ashley? You're not pulling our leg are you? Are they twins?
I'm still praying you have enough wind to push you gently and swiftly to Durban.
Ashley and Kate....whodathunkit?
Nagaa
That's our Zac....making the most of life and being a great ambassador. Glad that you had fun, amongst all the repairs and flu etc.
It's amazing to see how you change between photos! I am sure there are a few 'local' girls who wish you didn't have to sail away!
Hoping that the stormy weather is far enough away, so as not to impact you too much.
You are always in my thoughts and prayers.
UK friend
It does my heart good to see you looking so happy, healthy and having lots of fun! And I feel so proud to have such an awesome American ambassador. Love the pics, especially with the young people of Mauritius.
BTW, what is it like to walk on the bottom? Did you see anything interesting? How deep were you?
Best of luck avoiding the storm. Sending lots of prayers for you and Team Sunderland, too.
ya know Zac, hang'n with the guys (or is that the girls) seems to be gett'n to be pretty regular for ya. now we know what the trip was really for.
jus kidd'n. you have a safe leg around madagascar and around the horn.
be safe and well see you later. ronnie
Hello Everyone,
Sounds and looks like you had a great time. It's always great to look at pictures too.
Hopefully you'll avoid all the storms and arrive in Durban safely.
I received your calendar a few days ago and believe me it was worth the wait. It really came out great. If anyone needs some Christmas gifts this might do the trick. This is a great gift because it lasts all year long.
I hope you'll catch some good 18 knot winds and you won't have to deal with much more.
Sail On,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California
Mr. Sunderland:
My name is Jeff Paulson,and I teach 3rd grade in Tennessee. My students have some questions for you; if you have time to respond (and we know from your blog that you don't have much), we would be thrilled to hear from you:
I'm studying you for reading and Social Studies. My whole class is having to do this. We are following you on a map and reading your blog. We started a blog, too. When you stop in different countries, could you tell us about the culture?
Could you tell us what foods you are eating and what people wear and what music they listen to? It doesn't matter if it is the same or different from America.
What has been your favorite place to visit? Why do you always say “Cheers” at the end of all your blogs?
In class we learned about knots and sailing from you. We learned about squalls, swells, and longitude and latitude. My sister likes beef jerky like you do! Are you worried about falling asleep and a squall coming?
On your blog, you spelled a few words wrong, but it's all right. Your blogs are good still. I'm 9 years old. I read your blog every chance I get. Was it fun passing the international date line?
How do you get rain water to drink?
Did you like growing up in a boat? Me and my friends love, love, love your blog! You're so cool.
Do you have pets? We read Robin Graham's story of going around the world and he had cats. I read about the pork blood you ate in the Polynesian islands. Did you really eat it? What other weird foods have you had?
It's been very interesting to learn about you being the youngest person to travel around the world. Finding out seasons change when you cross the equator is cool. Also, losing a day of your life at the date line was weird. How is your boat holding up? It seems like you have lots of problems. I hope you complete your trip and do not get hurt.
Why are you traveling around the world? Why didn't you get a bigger boat?
What would you do if you got a hole in your boat?
What's your favorite thing about sailing around the world? What's your worst fear?
Is it hard to pay attention to your school work? It's hard for me, and I'm not on a boat. Do you get seasick?
Do you ever miss your mom?
If you could have one thing on your boat that you don't have, what would it be?
Flying fish? Really?
Thank you!
Third Grade
Thrasher Elementary School
So glad to hear Mauritius was more than having the flu and work! Looks and sounds like you had a truly wonderful time. I'm not surprised at all at the friendliness you've received around the world -- I've always experienced the same (even in France, where the running joke is that they loath American tourists -- we found the most warm, welcoming people). I'm just glad that you are experiencing all of this and that so many people are supporting you. You are very blessed!
Take good care and safe sailing to Durban! Peace, Your Oklahoma Well-Wisher
Hey Zac,
Thanks for sharing the photos. You seem to be meeting such warm and generous people at all your ports. As the Croaker said "or is it just that you draw out the best in people"?
The story on NPR was great but I agree with a previous poster "I don't think the crowd waiting for you in MDR will be small", quite the opposite.
I received my calendars yesterday, the photos are awesome and I love the words of wisdom on each month. Everyone in my family will be getting one on Christmas.
Keep staying safe!
Mona
Tucson, AZ
Hey Zac,
Looks like you are making the most of your shore time. Enjoyed the photos and hearing a little bit about your stay. A slow go is probably a lot better than gale force winds and it gives you time to catch the Zacpac up on your latest port of call.
Hope the wind picks up a little for you.
Steve
Birmingham, AL
Zac-
What a cool place Mautitius is. Wow!
Pretty girls, too! Enjoy your downtime right now, and try to avoid
those nasty storms. Smooth sailin' to Durban!
Kodiak Mike
Zac,
Sounds like you are able to squeeze in some 'good times' while still tending to Intrepid....what a guy!...I am so glad that you are enjoying yourself as you continue on your adventure.
Thank you for the bits of info that ultimately put the picture into perspective for us (armchair sailors).
I am learning quite a few 'nautical terms' thanks to your jargon....It is quite exciting!...
We here at the PV Library wish you safe sailing and you are always in our prayers.
Betty E., Lomita, CA
Just received my Zac Sunderland calendar. I saw that many photos were taken at Emerald Bay on catalina Island. many, many years ago I worked at the Boy Scout camp there at EB.
Hey Zac! Great to hear from you again. I'm getting spoiled by your "personal" posts on the blog. Will enjoy it while it lasts!
Is it me, or do the girls get more beautiful south of the equator? Got a chuckle at the pic of you as the "cheese" in the Ashley and Kate sandwich. It's comforting to know that amidst the sometime craziness that you experience on the seas, you are welcomed by the warmest and kindest people one could imagine. It must be your "Zac-ness" (see the movie, "You, Me, and Dupre for the translation).
Hey, check your facebook "In box." I sent you a funny pic!
P.S. It's great to see all the new crew mates here on the blog. Thanks to the NPR story, we've a lot more voices. Welcome to the blog; it's a great ride!
Repairs, Babes, DJ's and Parties!. Enough said. Zac you are a true Rockstar in my book. I like how you are learning the art to balance in ones life. Take care of work and reward yourself with a little fun and relaxation. Enjoy and stay away from those Typhoons. God speed to ya mate.
Chris Carnaghi
Alhambra, CA
Up here where we are having cold winter days, it is a real blessing to read your posts, Zac. Mauritius sounds awesome.
Prayers will be for decent weather, protection from harm as you make your way toward the African continent.
Stay safe,
Kathy Bend, OR
@ Jeff Paulson, third grade teacher:
Please refer your students to the Zac FAQs page on this site. Many of the questions your students asked today have already been answered by Zac and his parents previously, and it's all written in the FAQs. You can access them directly from the blog on the right side, under the "donation," button, or from the main page by clicking on "FAQs/Intrepid" in the header.
Zac, I'm so glad to hear you had such a good time in Mauritius and that it was productive, too. With Facebook, chat and email, you can easily stay in touch with most of the friends you meet on this journey, for the rest of your life! Most of us older adults who read your blog had to rely on the old fashioned methods: finding note-paper, an envelope and stamp, sitting down and hand-writing a letter, and then waiting several weeks for the reply! Your most cherished experiences will be those you have with the people you meet on your journey.
Marilyn in Woodland Hills
Hi Zac,
Mauritius was not at all bad after all. I guess it is not the flu and the repairs that will come to your mind when your thoughts go back to Mauritius.
It is true. When you travel with an open mind, you will meet tons of welcoming people everywhere.
All the best,
RK
Just one other thing especially for Californians who would love to do something like Zac, have the time but not really the means. Check this out:
"California will be sponsoring a boat in the 2009-10 Clipper 'Round the World Race'"
http://www.latitude38.com/lectronic/lectronicday.lasso?date=2008-12-03&dayid=203#Story3
If I had the time and no family, I really would consider it. But I think I rather have my family.
Here is more info about the Clipper World Race: http://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/
Cheers,
RK
Most excellent post Zac, thanks! It's good to know that you are having some fun along the way!
Hopefully the wind will pick up and you'll make the last few miles to Africa with no drama!
Hugs, and many blessings
Anita ~_/)
Waterloo, NY
Captain SV "Wombat"
Zac, your expression while being photographed between Ashley and Kate is priceless!!! I love it!
from Iowa
Zacster, Hanging with the "Olson" twins!
You go!
Great pics from Richard. Thanks!
Man, Zac! If all the women you run into on your voyage look like those two, I would expect that we'll never see you again!!!!! Is it my imagination or do you seem a bit 'thrilled' with that situation???
LOL
Looks like you're progressing well, Zac. Keep it up!
:)
Scott
Hey Zac,
Looks like you had a wonderful time in Maritius. What a wonderful ambassador you are. The pictures were great! Thank you Mr. Manisamy.
Here's hoping you avoid the storm and have smooth sailing to Durban.
You are always in our prayers!
Blessings,
Jennifer and Ben
Sherman Oaks, CA
I think there's a typo in your latest position - I'm guessing your at 36degS and not 46degS?
Bravo for your journey and best of luck!
Joe
Denver, CO
Cool. Looks like your having alot of fun, and you are making my blog seem like an boring 5 paragraph essay on Approriate Classroom Behavior, which (trust me) is boring. I hope you make it around the world be4 you turn 18!! Good Luck!!
Sounds like you're doin' great Zac! You have a bunch of fans at South Eugene High School now who are regular readers of your blog! They all wish you the best (and more wind). Stay away from those storms, and don't forget to have a little fun!
-Halle S. in Oregon
@Colojo:
LOL. I made the same mistake. Actual position is:
27 46.068S 45 47.913E
It does however show that Googel Earth is very forgiving ito positional inputs are concerned!!
Good gracious! An Ashley sandwich! Just make sure you don't leave lots of baby Zaclets in your trail!! ;-)
Anyone know the ETA of Capt. Zac to MDR?
Hey, Zac - thanks for the post. THAT is the kind of fun we hope you have in port - water adventures, local food and folks and...did I mention girls?? Oh yeah, that's cool, just keep your trunks on, bro - seriously! It would be VERY WEIRD to travel around the world again, stop in to revisit some port and find out you have a KID living there!! YIKES!!
I am also glad that Mauritius will not just be a memory of flu and repairs. GLAD FOR YOU!
You said there were charters in port that day. Do those charters come from Madagascar or where?
Perfect wind to you and quick passage to Durban. PEACE to ya, Cap'n.
LA in MN
Hoping and trusting that everything is ok.
Uk friend
Tut, tut Zac. What will your girlfriend in the states think? I have a feeling she's going to be a little jealous. JK!
JK= just kidding
;D
Good day sir Zac, glad to see you're enjoying your time out at sea (and the occassional port as well!), all of us here in so cal's all girls La Reina High School are cheering for ya! :D
Send a postcard, lol!
Love&Peace
Ali
LRHS junior
Hiya Zac,
Glad to see you were able to hang out and have fun in Mauritius and didn't have to work all the time.
Sail on!
A fellow homeschooling friend
"I took some time yesterday between jobs to type a bit about the last few days of time I spent in Mauritius. Photos are courtesy of Richard Munisamy..."
I was at university here in the UK (almost 20 years ago, now!) with a guy called David Munisamy whose family were from Mauritius - OK, so perhaps it's a fairly common surname in that part of the world BUT I'd love to know if there's any relation... any chance of finding out?
(I've requested Zac to add me as a friend on FaceBook so perhaps I might get a chance to find out through there next time he has an opportunity in port [or even afterwards, once he reaches 'home'] to deal with that? Cheers! :-> )
Thanks for approving my posts last night on some of the older blogs - I noticed that in my exuberance, I even managed to mis-type my own surname... doh!
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