Project BlueSphere

Do you remember the show “Survivor”?

They asked the question “If you were to bring one thing to a deserted island, what would it be”? Many people said “a pocket knife”, or, “a lighter”. I swore I’d show up with empty pockets and say “I brought a good attitude” and smile from ear to ear.

I’m kind of pissed drunk, I went out with some friends who said “What the hell are you doing back in Panama” as I dropped the anchor? “My motor quit”. “Oh shit, let me buy you a beer”, and that’s how the evening has gone. “I’m so sorry, maybe it’s nothing”? I’d give a hollow look and say “Maybe”.

I feel like the South Pacific is my unicorn. A mythical beast that will always be just out of my reach. Today when my motor quit it took me almost two hours to jibe and return back to Panama. I thought if I changed course, I would never make the south pacific. How will I continue without my motor I thought? “Just like all the men who did it before me”! The problem would be no more projectbluesphere.com. With no motor I can’t charge the batteries to use my cameras, or computer, no more logs!

Maybe it won’t be so bad, but my oil is burning up, and there is diesel in my exhaust. I’ve known I’ve needed to replace my motor since I started the trip, maybe it’s just time. My friend said “Better to go now, then on the lee of a reef in a strong current in the Tuamotos”. “I suppose” was my reply swirling my beer and looking like my dog just died.

I have to start thinking of options in the morning. I will cross the pacific, but will it be next year, it’s getting late in the season? I’m pretty okay with it I guess, but I defiantly feel like I’d be letting everyone down. I could probably go back and make the money in 6 months, return, and be ready to go by next March.

Everything happens for a reason right?

Who knows, I’m going to pass-out.

Cheers.

Peace, Love, and ?????????

Alex

I pulled up the anchor this morning at 5:45 am, and left for the Pearlas Islands, only a 35 mile trip.

There was no wind, and I wanted to charge the batteries, so I powered along for a few hours, and the motor quit. Where did the oil go?

I’m 12 miles from the Pearlas and I just jibed to return to Panama. I hope and prey this isn’t a serious issue!

Why, Why, WHY???????

Peace, Love, and #&@%$!*&^%*%##

A

The ITCZ (Doldrums) have moved quite north. Many squalls last night, and not as much sleep. I spoke to the local weather man on the SSB this morning. He sez “hang tight for a few days. There is a lot of convective activity (Lightning & Squalls) between 8, and 5 degrees north (The ITCZ)”. I’ll head for the Pearlas Islands (Where they shot survivor) in the morning for a change of scene, and wait for weather.

Today I checked the oil, changed the transmission fluid, cleaned the water-maker filter, and built a little light for when I’m shooting video at night.

I slammed my middle finger on my left hand, and now I’m in the process of loosing 2 finger-nails, not to mention the 6 or so infected cuts on my hands from the barnacles. Remember the old saying “Wooden Ships & Iron men”? I have a plastic ship, and right now I’m feeling like Jello. I need some time at sea to get back in the swing of things. I’ve gotten soft being in Panama for 3 months.

It’s nice to be on the boat most of the day cooking, and making water again.

Cheers everyone.

Peace, Love & Lightning!!!!

– Alex

Time: 22:04 Zulu

Position: N 08 47.914 W 79 33.192

Location: Isla Taboga

I heaved the anchor this morning and was under way by 07:30.

I had a lovely sail and decided to stop at Isla Taboga to decompress for a day or two. I might take off for the Perlas in the morning, or just take off for the Marquesas, who knows? I didn’t have a palpation all day, life is getting better.

I spent the day listening to music and trimming my sails. The wind was under 10 Knots from astern, and the seas flat, who could ask for more?

I cleaned up the bottom a bit, it was quite a mess. I have a number of cuts on my hands from the barnacles.

I’m going to row ashore in a while for a beer, and possibly some dinner.

It’s really good to be somewhere new.

My smile is quite long today : )

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

Guess who got a package they were waiting for?

No, not Norman Rockwell…., no not former president Clinton.

I DID!!!!!!

It only took a month.

I made an appointment to see a doctor today and get a physical before I go, a good idea at 40 I think.

I´ll be out of here in 5, or 6 days.

WAHOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have made some good Japanese friends, you can check out there cruising website at http://www.ne.jp/asahi/liberty/sevenseas/liberty.kinkyo.eng.htm

They have convenced me to visit Japan after Fiji.

I´ll write more later.

YEEEEHHAAAAA!

Peace, love & coconuts.

Alex

Maybe waiting anoter week isint so bad. I have been listining to other boats on the SSB between here and the Galapagos, and there is just no wind.

My friends on ¨Monkey´s Business¨left for Easter Island this morning, we are planning on hooking up around Tahiti.

I got my canvis back, and I´m currently looking for someone else to finish the bimini Job.

I was working on the boat yesterday and jammed my finger, going to loose that nail, OUTCH!!!!!

I know the logs are kind of boring now, but just wait a week or so, I´ll have lots to talk about crossing the Pacific.

Hope everyone is well.

Sail far & live slowly.

Peace,Love & Coconuts

Alex

I´ve been stressing about my new battery system for 6-8 weeks now.

3 months ago I put in 4 new t-105,6v batteries.At some point they kind of died on me. After I installed the batteries I installed 3 solar panels, a charge controller, rewired the engine instruments, yadda, yadda, yadda. Where did the problem lay??????

During the last week i´ve gone through the entire system. I´ve disconected the charge controler, seperated all the batteries and checked their voltage & gravity, rewired a bunch of stuff, AHHHHHH, I could not find the problem for the life of me. I even had my alternator rebuilt, and got a new external ¨truck¨regulator yesterday.

About a month ago my Balmar regulator failed. I replaced the alternator with an internal regulated one, and even replaced it with a new external one yesterday. Today I borrowed my buddies balmar regulator to EQ the batts, and BAM! the system started sucking up the amps.

I´m so happy I cant tell you. If all goes well my package will arrive this week and I´m out of here.

Alex

I´ve dug myself in a hole. I have a gremlin in my battery system and have been pulling all my wiring apart. I had my alternator rebuilt today and replaced it but no help, I cant figure it out. My system just dosent want to take the amps, I´ll dig further tomorrow.

I had a guy pick up $100 of my sunbrella 2 weeks ago, and gave him $40.00, it looks like he´s ripping me off. I´m going to visit the police station tomorrow. I still have no bimini, and need to do something before I go, the sun here is a killer, Still no package.

I went to a cool b-day party at the Balboa Yacht Club last night. Lots of friendz were there. There were belly-dancers & food, how can you beat that?

Namast´s bottom is pretty bad, I got to hop in the cold (Humbolt current) water tomorrow and scrape 4 a few hours, burrrrr!

I cant wait to be back on an island schedule :) I really miss the San Blas.

Cheers everyone.

Alex

I got some pretty bad news. A package that was shipped to me here went out regular U.S. mail. I have friends here that have been waiting 3 months for a USPS Package, and others who have never recieved their packages at all. Unfortunatly it had about 2k of my stuff in it, and my EPIRB. I´m going to wait 10 days, and just take off without it, I dont know what else to do.

Otherwise I´ve been listening to music, swimming, cleaning the boat, looking at charts, and trying not to spend any money. If I go to the Dingie Dock its $5.00, and at least another $5.00 in cabs just to get somewhere. I´ve been trying to stay on the boat but it´s tuff sometimes.

I want 2 go, I want 2 go, I want 2 go. I´m getting cranky, AHHHHHHHHHHHH! Panama is eating my brain!!!!!

Okay…, enough of that, I´m better now.

I dont know if I can take 10 more days of this. The sea is not only calling my name but blaring it in my ears in surround sound.

Peace, Love, and the United States Postal Service. I´m sorry for all thouse times I cursed you in line and made a scene :)

– Alex

More shopping today, I spent $100 at Mega Depot which is like a costco. I also bought 20 bags of TVP (Textured Vegitable Protein), it´s really good suff to sub for meat. It´s really good in pasta sauce, and ramen.

I uploaded some cool pictures to the photo gallery of the Panama canal, check´m out!!!

I´m really running out of room on Namaste, I wish I had more storage.

Tick, tock, my last package leaves the states tomorrow, it should take 7 to 10 days to get here, then BANG! I´ll be off like a shot.

Peace, Love, and TVP.

– Alex

I’m getting bored. I went out dancing with friends the other night and didn’t get home till 8:30 in the morning; I was 3 sheets to the wind for sure. The clubs here don’t close till everyone leaves no one left. I was surprised to see the sun when we opened the door, I slept till 16 hundred.

I’m collecting food, and storing it in every nook and cranny in the boat, it’s like a big puzzle, I’m sure I’ll be coming across things that I’ll have forgotten about in the Pacific.

Cheers all, I’m putting up some more pictures in the next few days.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

Hi all, I´m still anchored in La Playeta.

The water is very cold as the Humbolt current has decided to visit. I´m spending each day cleaning, fixing, and stowing. I´m still waiting for a bunch of stuff from the states, so at this point it´s a waiting game. Mentally, I´m ready to go. I still need to buy some more food, but I´m getting pretty close to where I want to be before I leave.

I dont know about visiting the Galapagos. It´s a pretty expensive place to visit, I might just get some video of the islads as I pass them.

I was in the French Embassy today and applied for a 3 month visa to French Polynisea (9 Euros (11 bucks)). They are holding my passport but I´ll get everything back on Friday.

I´m off to scrub the hull.

Cheers.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

Namaste is as Phat as she´s ever been!

She is carrying 107 gallons of fuel ($207 at the fuel dock today, OUTCH!!!), along with 90 gallons of water. I still need to put another 100 or so pounds of food on board.

I left the Balboa Yacht club today, another $200, what was I thinking? I´ve anchored at La Playeta along with another 50 or so boats. I found a little cafe with internet. The dingie dock here is $5.00 a day, but definatly better then the $12.00 a day for the mooring at Balboa. Balboa is a pretty cool place though and the people that run it are very helpful.

I´m getting closer to realizing my dream every day, the PACIFIC IS MINE!!!!

Cheers all.

Peace, Love, and more Peace, a couple Coconuts too.

– Alex

God I wish I could take off tomorrow.

I’m waiting on stuff from the states. I have a laptop comming, regulator for the alternator, my EPIRB is comming back from the shop along with my backup GPS. I’m guessing it will still take me 2 weeks to get my ship together :)

I’m working on my Bimini today. The air is really dirty here, and Namasty is filthy, I’ll spend the rest of the day scrubbing.

I’m kind of in a weird place. I’m not nervious about the crossing, just really frustrated with all of the work involved, I cant wait to be at sea and out of the big city.

I’m really looking forward to shooting the next DVD. Hopefully once I take off everything will be in working order and I can put all of my energy towards my camera.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

So I have made this huge list of everyting I want to do before I leave in a few weeks and I just realized it will never happen.

Ive started really slashing the list. I need a new starting battery, mine is toast, but you know what, I never use it. I{ll pull the battery out later today and trash it. I{m focusing on getting my navagation system up and running. I{m also waiting on a new regulator and alternator to arrive from the states.

Food, food, food, what to do? I have been driving myself crazy with provisioning lists. I threw them all out last night and decided to get back to the basics. I make my own bread, so Ill bring alot of flower and yeast. I will also bring alot of rice, oatmeal, coffee, canned tuna, and granola. Thats about it. I will bring some fresh veggies and eggs but they will only last a few weeks. I hope my new fishing tackle and hand lines pay off, Im really counting on fresh fish.

I really have to take a moment to thank all the people that help pull this crazy website off.

My college buddy Ken (Just had his 3rd. girl), handles all of the shipping of the DVD s, something I definatly cant do from out here, and David Wilson (Super Genious (www.idavid.com))does all of projectbluesphere.com webwork. This site would not be possibe without the rest of my team, I feel very fortunite, Thanks guys.

I also have to thank all of the subscribeors who have donated to keeping this site alive. I would not have made it through the canal without the help of these people. My dream to sail around the world is being shared by many people, I will do all I can to bring the expierance to the web and capture it in my next DVD.

Well I have a million things to do, Im going to the French Embassy and Im going to get some info on the Marquesas.

Cheers all.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

‘ Alex

Wow, Panama is really a beautiful country.

Steve rented a car and we did a road trip. We put 1000 miles on it in 4 days. We drove up to David on the Pacific coast, then crossed the mountains through Boquette (cool Volcanio), to Bocus del Toro on the Atlantic side where we did some diving.

Its time to focus on getting Namaste, and myself ready to cross the Pacific.

Ive noticed a few differances on this side of the canal. The water is much cooler and flows from my tap pretty cold. Its also dryer on this side. Its funny, Im just 40 or so miles away from the atlantic, and everything feels so differant.

From my mooring at the Balboa Yacht club I can see the open Pacific. I woke up this morning and smiled from ear to ear stareing at it, drinking my coffee, its just about time to go.

I know alot of you have sent instant messages to me on the boat and I havent been abel to respond due to my lack of a computer, I will respond shortly and should be up and running in a week or so.

I hope everyone is well and happy.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

Alex

My Cousin is here, and we decided to rent a car and see the country. I will not have access to the net for 3 or so days. I{ll post alot of pictures when I return.

I LOVE THE PACIFIC.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

Alex

Well, I did it. I´m through the canal and Namaste is moored at the Balboa Yacht Club in Panama City.

Yesterday morning we all went swimming with the sunrise before the pilot showed up.

You know my motor has run fine for 5 years and never had a hicup. Well yesterday morning I was pushing her a little harder then usual, and she QUIT!

My heart had a hicup´d as well. If Namaste broke down in the canal I´d be looking at a few grand in fines. I crossed all my fingers and toes, closed my eyes, and turned the key. Namaste came through, kicked over that old bird, and she was fine for the rest of the day. Oil pressure seems to drop as the motor gets hot, and I only ran her at about 1700 RPM´s. We were doing about 4 knots.

Now I was looking at about a five hundred dollar fine because I couldnt hold five knots. I had full sail up crossing the lake trying to make the next lock on time. I was a few hours late, but they didnt end up fining me so everything turned out for the best.

I´ve had some negative energy hanging aroud me lately, and it all seemed to wash away when the huge lock doors opened and Namaste motored into the pacific. My smile was ear to ear, and I´m really excited for the new adventures at hand.

I need to have the motor looked at and do some final work on the boat, but I´ll be setting sail to cross the Pacific in 3 weeks or so.

I´ll be writing more often when I get a computer again.

You can watch Namaste go through the Gatun lock by clicking this link: /Portals/0/Blog/miraflores-movie.gif (3MB).

Peace, Love and the PACIFIC BABY!!!!!

Alex

Alex asked me to post a ships log for today since he is still in transit.

I spoke with Alex several times this evening and all has gone very well. They made it through the final lock at Gatun around 19:40 Central Time. After the last lock, they were moving toward an overnight anchorage in the lake. Tomorrow morning around 0700, they will begin the last leg of the crossing that will take them under Centennial Bridge and through the Mira Flores lock.

I have an application running during Alex’s transit that is capturing still images from the web cameras available at http://www.pancanal.com/eng/photo/camera-java.html. These images then get stitched together to make a short movie showing the lock operation. You can watch Namaste go through the Gatun lock by clicking this link: /Portals/0/Blog/gatun-movie.gif (2MB). Watch for the two sailboats at the right side of the image.

I’ll have more movies for the next two sections of the canal transit in the next day or two.

David

This will be my last log update from the carribean.

The pilot will board namaste tonight around 17:00 and I will uplock the first 3 locks of the Panama Canal. I will spend the night anchored in the lake with my 4 line handlers and cross Panama in the morning and down lock 3 locks late tomorrow afternoon.

Everything really seems to be turning around. I´ve recieved like $500.00 in donations. One of the subscribers has covered a new Yamaha 2hp outboard, and another is donating his old laptop to the cause. I´m so touched that people love the site as much as they do, and are willing to support the project. It really means so much to me, REALLY.

I´m pretty stressed today. The Folks at the Panama Canal Yacht Club are making things as difficult as they can. I really dont have any nice things to say about this place, everyone seems to have a really bad attitude, there hand out, and bleed the cruisers who pass for every dime that they can. It makes sense though, noody visits here because they want too, it´s all about transiting.

There is a live webcam you can watch at the canal

http://www.pancanal.com/eng/photo/camera-java.html

Peace, Love, and THE PACIFIC BABY!!!!!!!!!

Alex

I´ve kind of been down the past few weeks. I feel like there is this big black cloud overhead. It started in portobello with my outboard being stolen, then a few days ago my laptop died for the last time, it´s shot.

2 days ago i decided to dig into my motor and thourally go through it before I motor through the canal. My tranny had been leaking a little and I wanted to get to the bottom of it. I also wanted to pull the coupling and check my shaft alignment as the motor has been vibrating more then usual. Well when I got back there and pulled off the coupling I found something rather amazing. the aft, starbord motor mount only had one bolt holding it to the motor, it had shifted about 2 inches to port. Well I borrowed a large metal fence post from the club, and hoisted up the motor with the tackle from my boom vang. I got the motor in place and replaced the missing bolt. The rear motor mounts are kind of hard to see.

Well I figured I should check the others and tighten up any loose bolts, I couldnt believe it, the rear, port mount had no bolts at all. Now I know why the motor has been vibrating. One of the bolts is snapped off and drilling it out of the motor is no easy task. I´ve also found that I need to replace my motor mounts as the bolt in the middle turns when adjusting the highth, AHHHHHHHHH.

Well all the stress came to a head last night and I got really drunk in the Panama Canal Yacht Club bar. I was drinking with a local guy and found out he is the best diesel guy in Panama. He´s comming to look at the situation today.

It all looks like it´s turning around though. A friend of a friend offerd me his spare laptop, and it looks like I might have a line on an outbord.

My cousin in comming on the 7th to transit the canal with me, it will be good to see some family, it´s been so long.

I´m really touched by the donations that have been comming in, I´ve recieved like a hundred and fifty dollars since I put up the link a week ago, and trust me, thats going a long way.

I really cant wait to get out of this horrible place Colon is definatly the arm pit of the Carribean. Last thursday there were 5 shootings within 4 blocks of the Yacht Club, 3 of which resulted in murders. Everybody has there hand out and looks at you like your an ATM machine, it really sucks.

Anyway I hate writing about negitive crap but thats whats around, cruising isint allways beautiful sandy beachs and coconuts.

Peace, Love, and God I can´t wait to get out of here.

= Alex

Sorry for the late update.

I’m installing a Tropikool refrigeration system which is utterly fantastic! It’s only drawing about 20-25 amp hours a day, it’s quiet, and incredibly efficient, just what I want. Installation was a snap to boot. If you’re looking for a new system for your boat this is it, it is the most efficient system on the market, if you have any questions, ask away.

The hard part was I decided to add an inch of foam to my cold box. I cut the foam and glued it to the walls of the box, pretty easy right? Well I don’t know if you have ever tried working with Formica, but what a difficult material to work with! When you cut it, it shatters. One needs a really good flat and stable surface to work with it, and needless to say I don’t have a large flat surface to work with. It was also blowing 30 knots in a very rollie anchorage, not a good combo for working with formica.

My ice box looks like hell, but it stays really cold, good enough for now.

Speaking of hell, I met the Devil. His initials are DHL. What a horrible company, with horrible service. I thought they were bad enough in the states, but here forget about it. I’m sticking with Federal Express; never again will I use DHL!!!!!

My temporary canal transit date is set for the 9 th, but I’m hoping for the 6 th.

My cousin Steve is coming to visit me for a few weeks and transit the canal with me.

Peace, Love, and the Panama Canal BABY!!!!

– Alex

Hi everyone.

I sailed into Colon Panama yesterday.

Motoring into the breakwall was an experance to say the least. Talk about super tanker traffic.

I dodged huge ships on my little Namaste.

I made it to the anchorage by the Panama Canal Yacht Club, and spent the night.

Today I started my canal paperwork, I should transit the canal in about a week.

Im really bummed as someone in Portabello boarded Namaste and stole my Yamaha 4hp outboard which was mounted on my stern pulpit.

I will get really strong in the Pacific as I will be rowing everywhere, oh well, everything happens for a reason right? Im going to keep my chin up and not let it get to me.

If anyone is interested I still have a slot for a charter in the Las Perlas Islands the first week of March. I have a charter comming the last week of Febuary. The Las Perlas is where they just finished shooting the last Survivor, kind of funny, the production crews made some of my friends leave the anchorage as they would be in the shot. So much for reality TV.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts all.

Alex

The Isthmus of Panama.

I feel like I’ve started my trip across the Pacific. I’m in new water and exploring once again. I’ve been in the Colombia, San Blas, and Isla Granda area for a while now, and it’s time to start changing scenery.

I’m in the Isthmus of Panama, and anchored off the historical town of Portobello.

Here is some pertinent text from Encarta:

The Isthmus of Panama is said to have been discovered by Spanish explorer Rodrigo de Bastidas in 1501, but the first exploration was made in 1502 by Christopher Columbus, who entered what is now Portobelo and established a colony there. The Spanish explorer Vasco NFAF1ez de Balboa crossed the isthmus to discover the Pacific Ocean on September 26, 1513.

Drake, Sir Francis (1540?-96), English navigator and explorer, born near

Tavistock. He served an apprenticeship as a mariner, and in 1567 he was given his first command. His ship, the Judith, was one of a squadron of vessels led by a kinsman of Drake, the English navigator Sir John Hawkins, on a slave- trading voyage in the Gulf of Mexico. All but two ships of the expedition were lost when attacked by a Spanish squadron. In 1570 and 1571 Drake made two profitable trading voyages to the West Indies. In 1572 he commanded two vessels in a marauding expedition against Spanish ports in the Caribbean Sea. During this voyage, Drake first saw the Pacific Ocean; he captured the port of Nombre de Dios on the Isthmus of Panama and destroyed the nearby town of

Portobelo. He returned to England with a cargo of Spanish silver and a reputation as a brilliant privateer. He was sent next to Ireland to help quell the rebellion there from 1573 to 1576.

I’m off to Colon in the morning (I think) I may go to Panama city to pick up some packages from Fedex.

I’ll start getting my paperwork to transit the canal together the following week, YIPPIEEEEE!!!, I’m really psyched.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

It seems like the harder I work the farther behind I get.

Today my ignition went on the blink. I’m going to replace it with a button and do away with the whole key thing.

My Yamaha 4hp outboard also quit today, its leaking fuel from the water intake. I’ll have to put in a new piston & rings, ARRRGGGG! This is all getting quite expensive.

Luckily, Latitudes & Attitudes is helping me out with the canal crossing. I’m giving an agent a plug in one of my articles, and he’s doing my transit for cost. It will cost me $600.00 to the Canal authority.

My solar panels and new batteries are fantastic. I never use more then 45 Amps off the top of the system. I’m sure that will change when I start using my refrigerator everyday, but this is really cool to have all this power. I can work on my computer as much as I want now.

I’m selling 2 logo & hyperlink spots ($500 each/Yearly) on the front page of projectbluesphere.com if anyone is interested.

Tick tock tick tock, I’ll be in the Pacific in 3 or 4 weeks. I’m really going to have to do some creative provisioning as my funds are EXTREAMLY limited. I will have to catch a lot of fish.

If anyone is interested in a charter to the Las Pearlas Islands off of the Pacific Panama coast let me know. We could explore them together before I take the big trip to the Marquesas in French Polisnia.

Take care everyone.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

When I installed my water maker last year, I remember reading somewhere that you have to take vitamin supplements if you live on water maker water. The water maker does not let any minerals pass through the membrane as well as salt.

I went to the doctor a few weeks ago because I was feeling really down, “I’m just so tired all the time”! He took some blood tests, and it turns out I’m anemic.

I’m on iron pills & vitamins now, and in just 2 weeks I feel much better. With my new found energy I’ve been knocking out boat projects every day. Yesterday I re-bedded the scuppers which were leaking badly. I used black 5200 (it’s all I had) and it turned out to be a real mess.

I’m off to Colon (Not a nice place) today to visit a hardware store, and buy some food. My friend is taking me in his truck, and I’m going to get 20 gallons of diesel as well.

Hey…, I have a good boat tip. I was going to throw away my Dewalt 14.4 cordless drill as the batteries are over $100.00 down here and it was just taking up space. I thought about it for a while, made a 30’ cord with a cigarette lighter plug on the end of it, and soldered it to the battery connections. It works like a champ now, and no batteries to recharge. So if you have a spare 12, or 14 Volt DC drill laying around, don’t trash it, make it a corded Boat, RV, or Truck tool!

Peace, Love, & Coconuts everyone.

– Alex

I will sail my small boat across the largest ocean in the world this year!

Happy New Year.

– A

The week has been hectic…, projects, projects, and more projects. You know what they say the definition of cruising is? Fixing your boat in exotic locations, it’s pretty true.

I’ve got 4 new Trojan T-105 batteries installed. The batteries were about $400.00, with another $100.00 in cabling. Wow what a difference in power! I’ve also got 2, of my 3 solar panels charging during the day, what a treat. I still need to mount them on the stern pulpit, but the bulk of the work is done.

I bought an old Sea Tiger manual windless that I need to rebuild & mount on the foredeck. I really think I’m going to need that in the deep anchorages of the Pacific.

I also need to look at my compression post. A bit of the wood is rotting where it touches the bottom of the hull. I’m going to loosen all of the rigging, jack it up with an auto jack, and glass it to the hull. Theoretically easy, but I think it will be a bear of a project.

I also got a 2nd anchor roller in the states. My primary anchor is a 40lb plow with 80’ of 3/8 chain, and 150’ of line. My 2nd anchor is a Hooker (Danforth type) with 100’ of 5/16 chain, and 100’ of line. I also have a large Danforth on the stern, and a series drogue ready to deploy in bad weather.

The antenna to my EPIRB broke, I need to find or build a replacement. ACR wants like $130.00 for an antenna “RIDICULIOUS!” I could probably pick up the same one at a Radio Shack for around $5.00, I really hate that!!!!

I must be really stupid, but I’ve asked Lupe not to return from Venezuela. I’ve been neglecting my writing, video and photography. I feel that for the moment my path is one of a single-hander. I want to finish what I set out to do. Sail around the world in a small boat alone. I couldn’t have asked to spend time with a nicer person though, and I really enjoyed our time together.

If you’re interested in hearing my story from the beginning, pick up a copy of “Latitudes & Attitudes”, I’m working on my 3rd piece for them now. I got the January issue when I was back in the states at a West Marine. It really made me happy to see my work published. The gang at Latitudes and Attitudes are a really great group of people to work with as well.

Anyway, that’s it for today.

Happy New year everyone!

Peace, Love, and Coconuts!

– Alex

Happy Holidays everybody.

I just got back to Panama this morning. The sail from Cancun to Fort Myers was a bit tough. We had 30-35 Kts of wind most of the way and used a 3rd reef for much of the trip. Much of Cancun is still wiped out from the hurricane, it´s really sad.

The owner was great and I´ve made another friend. Her 39´ Mariner is up for sale as she and her husband just got a bigger boat.

My travel day yesterday was terrible and American Airlines did everything they could to make it worse, if your traveling to South or Central America, Fly Copa, it is a much better airline.

I bought a bunch of stuff at West Marine, and bought an old sea tiger windless from Susan. My luggage was opened, and 3 tubes of 5200 were confiscated along with some motor paint, what is this world comming to?

It´s funny I had a bit of culture shock the one day I spent in Florida, I really wanted to be back home. It was also hard for me to deal with the cold of Souther Florida, I could see my breath in the morning, BURRRRRR!!!!!

I hope everyone has a really warm Christmas, it a good time to reflect on what is really important in life, and the new year is a good time to commit to things that are important to us.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Peace, Love, and more Love.

– Alex

Well I got the gig sailing to Florida from Cancun Mexico. I’m flying to Cancun on thursday, and sailing a 39′ Mariner (Lasirena) to Ft Myers Florida. I think I’ll spend a few days in Florida and visit a West Marine before flying back to Panama. Lupe is flying back to Venezula on thursday as well.

I’ll be late on replying to alot of emails as I dont think I’ll bring my computer or Sat Phone.

Peace, love and Happy Holidays.

– Alex

Hello to all. Thanksgiving went well I replaced the turkey with lobsters & crabs, yummy.

I’m back in Isla Linton. Lupe and I ran out of everything in the San Blas. The wind blew like crazy from the west for 9 days, and guess where I needed to sail, yup, you got it, west. Why is it always like that? I hear that crossing the Pacific one can set there down wind rig and not touch the sails for weeks, WOW, that would be a treat. The trade winds should be around 15/20, and consistent from the east, YAHOO, that will be a blast, unless I’m in the doldrums of course. I’m starting my outfit. I need to install my solar panels, get new batteries, get a new computer & alternator. Fix my compression post, and go through the whole rig. I also need to stock the boat with food & stuff to last me the better part of a year.

I’m hoping to transit the canal soon, that should be really cool.

Hey I started writing for Latitudes & Attitudes, my first article will come out in the January issue. If you don’t have a subscription you should get one, not just to read my stuff and look at more pictures, but it’s a great magazine run by great people.

Lupe and I went and visited a great big supermarket yesterday, we have lots of yummy and fresh stuff to eat now.

If you have a few minutes and haven’t touched base with me yet please send me an instant message and say hi. I love talking to you guys through email.

Cheers all.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

Life aboard Namaste has been a little strange. I’m really battling with the “should I be alone” thing. Lupe is fantastic and has a strong personality. It’s tuff for me sometimes as I’m so used to having everything my way. I’ve forgotten how to be in a relationship, it’s been so long. I guess time will tell.

The ear infection is getting a bit better but I’ve been bummed about not being in the water. My buddy Jamie (Possibilities) and I have been hanging out a bit. He wants me to consider sailing to the Azores, Africa, Brazil, and heading south to do Cape Horn. What a trip that would be, and I’d get into the Pacific for free (No canal fees).

We just had a big front roll through, 25/30 Kts for about 40 hours. The wind generator was really kicking out the amps, but my dead batteries don’t hold the power, oh well, I suppose I could have bigger problems in life.

Cheers everyone, Happy Thanksgiving.

Peace, Love, and Gobble Gobble.

– Alex

Hi all.

I have a pretty bad ear infection from free diving.

I managed to get my laptop working with the help of a 12v fan, a funnel, and some duct tape. My buddy found a place on the internet with computer 12v power supplies, and I’m going to build a proper ships computer.

I’ll be going back to Linton, or Portabello in a few days to start preparing for my Pacific crossing. The Latitudes & Attitudes film crew will be coming down to do a special segment on my Canal crossing.

Peace, Love and Coconuts.

– Alex

Hi all.

I hope everyone is well. I dropped off my charter today. Ryan turned out to be a really good guy, and will hopefully stay a friend well into the future.

Lupe is having a good time as well. I shot a nice ocean trigger yesterday which was really yummy. I also found a really good Snapper hole, probably 30 medium to large Snappers in there. I had to kind of bale as I had just shot the trigger, and I cut my hand pretty good on my spear. A 6-8 foot nurse shark was around and an equally sized black tip. I thought it would be a good idea to go back for a snapper another day.

My logs will be short. The fans on my laptop are not spinning, and it shuts down after a few minutes, kind of a bummer.

If anyone wants to come and see the San Blas, send me an instant message.

There are a bunch of hurricanes brewing about, YUCK!!!!!

Peace, Love, and Fair Wind.

– Alex

We had a pretty rough trip, but it’s really good to be back.

I’m having problems with my laptop again and might not be able to get any more emails out.

I’ll post more as soon as I can.

Hope everyone is well.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

Well, I´m out of here today and yes I´m bringing Lupe. I´m also bringing one passanger to the San Blas for a few extra bucks.

I had some problems with immigration today and I´m a bit stressed out, but some time on the water should wash that away quickly.

I´ll be slow on returning emails as I will not have internet, the best way to drop a line is to send an instant message from the website.

If anybody is up for a charter, plane tickets are cheap now, and it´s the best season to be in the San Blas.

Peace, Love, and more peace.

– Alex

I was sitting in the internet café yesterday when I noticed strong winds blowing through a tree outside.

I immediately packed up my computer and headed for the boat, it was blowing 40- 50 when I got there. The chop had picked up and there was a sailboat 8 feet off my bow and dragging down on Namaste.

I immediately let out another 100’ of anchor line and got away. Within 2 minutes the other boat was crossing over my line as the wind was shifting to the north, close call.

I called Club Nautico on the radio and learned that the owners were sitting on a friend’s boat watching the situation from the club and having cocktails.

I guess I have to vent a bit today as I’m still really ticked off. As cruisers we have a responsibility to look after our boats, and anchor properly. If it’s blowing hard “YOU SHOULD BE ON YOUR BOAT”!!!!!!!, especially if you just dropped the hook the night before.

I know people who didn’t know how to sail when they went cruising and are some of the best sailors I know; they just bought the boat, split, and learned how to sail on the way. I also know cruisers who have been cruising for over 10 years and don’t have a lick of common sense.

Many people ask me “Do you think I have enough sailing experience to go cruising”? More importantly you should be asking yourself if you have enough common sense. Sailing is not rocket science; however a boat is no place for stupidity. People do get hurt and even die. This also brings me to the piracy topic. All of my friends who have had encounters with pirates have done stupid things. I even know one guy who actually had a party and invited all the local workers from the yard and bragged about how much money and electronics he had the night before he left, bad practice!

Anyway, I’m venting. The anchorage here is really crowded and the holding ground is really bad. I’m really looking forward to the San Blas in a week or so.

If anyone has SKYPE, and wants to chat while I still have access to the internet my user name is Projectbluesphere.

Cheers everyone.

Peace, Love, and good holding grounds.

– Alex

Today was one of thouse tuff days.

My outboard motor for the Dingy is down again. I think it´s shot for good this time. So I told myself that I´m just going to make the best of it and row. So I took off the motor, stowed it on the boat, and started my mile 1/2 mile row for Club Nautico, I was absolutly drenched in sweat by the time I got to the club. It was then I realized that I forgot to bring my wallet, ARRRRRRRRGGGGGGGG!

Anyway, I posted some flyers at the backpacker hotels, and I´m going to start looking for some passengers, I hope to be off to Panama in 7-10 days, I´m really ready to leave Cartagena, I´m dying to go swiming!

I dont think I´m going to rush to fix the outboard, the work-out is nice, and I save money on gas, 2-stroke oil, and repairs.

I have to finish making my series drogue before I head off across the Pacific, I think I´ll work on it later today. If you cruise, and dont have a series drogue, or at least a Para-anchor, please check out http://www.seriesdrogue.com

It´s a really important thing to have, and your first line of defence in bad weather.

Cheers everyone.

Peace, Love, and coconuts.

– Alex

This log has turned out to be a source of therapy for me. It’s kind of cool posting my thoughts & experiences, and having so many people respond with input. Project BlueSphere has turned out to be much more then a sailing experience for me, it’s my life.

I’m kind of in-between a rock & a hard place. As you all know I met this great girl who likes to sail, beautiful, really cool, hummmmmmm, what to do, what to do?

What the hell does she see in me?

Lupe has gone back to Venezuela for a few weeks, her father is sick, and I have to make some decisions. I kind of feel like I can barely take care of (afford) myself, what would it be like having another person around. I’ve become kind of set in my ways, and I don’t know if I can pull a relationship off financially.

Anyway, I’m going to start fueling and getting ready to set sail. I’m hoping my path shows itself to me as I’m feeling kind of lost. All I know is, come March, I’m sailing across the pacific.

Anyway, a lot of “food for thought”!

Peace, Love & ??????????

– Alex

It`s kind of tough doing updates without a laptop. My new one is supposed to arrive today, hopefully I will be up and running tomorrow.

It`s still really hot, and the days are going by slowly, I will be happy to up anchor and head for Panama.

Hope everyone is well.

Cheers to all.

Peace, love, and how about a little more Peace?

– Alex

There is absolutly no way I can put Humptie Dumptie back together again.

I found the identicle laptop with a broken screen on ebay, I´ll have it in a week. My friends wife is bringing it back from the States. Can you believe Fedex wanted $280.00 to deliver it to the fedex office here!!!

Today I´m pulling the injectors to be rebuilt, and I´m hoping to up anchor and split in a few weeks. I need some time in the San Blas.

Sorry I havent been posting much but I´ve been kind of down dealing with all the repairs, and expenses of trying to get across the Pacific. I´m looking at 2 solar panels, new batteries, Motor work, laptop replacment, Canal fees, not to mention stocking the boat with food and putting some cash away for posting bonds in the Pacific, and maybe having a buck or 2 for a cold beer here and there. The reality is I´ll be living on fish, rice, and the water from my water maker. I suppose life could be worse :)

Someone instant messaged me with an address like (tSframer@????) I cant tell what one of the characters is on my sat phone. If this is you, please email me at alex@projectbluesphere.com.

Cheers everyone.

– Alex

Boy laptops are expensive, I’ve been checking ebay, ARGGGG!!!!!

When my diesel motor went I downloaded a shop manual and rebuilt it myself, it worked, I saved about four grand that I didn’t have. I’m figuring on getting a new motherboard and fixing my laptop myself. I should have taken some digital photos because I have no idea how to put it back together again. There sure are a lot of screws and stuff in there. I can get a new motherboard for a few hundred bucks, and probably another hundred to fedex it here, We’ll see!!!

Hurricane Katrina is effecting the area, and we are getting torrential rain, The streets in Cartagena are flooding.

Well that’s it for today, I hope everyone is well.

Peace, Love, and stay out of hurricanes!!!!!

My Mercury is seriously out of retrograde.

They say everything bad happens in 3´s.

Well my inflatable is more of a deflatable. I just bought a used dingie for $150.00 today and fixed that problem, and my outboard doesn’t like to run, but worst of all I found out that my water proof laptop case is not waterproof at all. My laptop is dead. I dumped a few cups of salt water out of the USB ports yesterday, not a good thing. Needless to say I’m in a horrible mood.

If anyone has a good deal on a laptop let me know. I´ll checking ebay over the next few days, ARGGGG!!!!

Anyway I just wanted to vent a bit. I know life´s not that bad but today kind of sucked.

Peace, Love, and dry laptops.

– Alex

How am I supposed to work on the boat when It feels like someone has a blow dryer on me all the time. It’ so hot in the middle of the day I can’t stand it.

Namaste’s batteries are dying. I got the best money could buy before I left, I was told they should last around 8 years, but thats not really turning out to be the case. I have 2 rolls 6v batteries, and I’m going to replace them with 4 6v batteries this time to give me more amp hours in my house bank.

If anyone is up for chatting check out skype.com. It’s great service and I use it for all my long distance calls. PC to PC is free, and PC to phone is pretty darn cheap.

Here is another picture of Cartagena.

Peace, Love, and stay cool.

– Alex

Just wanted to drop a line and say hi. My buddy Bruce is here and we have been enjoying the Cartagena night life. It´s not so good for my head, but we are having a good time. Bruce is falling in Love with Colombia as I did, and plans to visit Cartagena on his boat.

It´s hard to discribe the vibe here, it´s laid back, and as I understand very tipical for a south American city.

We´re going to run around tomorrw taking pictures, I´ll post some in a few days.

I hope everyone is well and happy.

Sail far and live slowly.

– Alex

Everything is well in Cartagena. I´m feeling much better and starting to knock out some boat projects. I had my good alternator rebuilt, and put back on the motor. I also rewired my alternator cable to my battery switch, I wasnt able to charge my starting battery before.

Tomorrow I´m going to adjust my valves and pull the injectors for inspection, cleaning, and a possible overhaul.

I had kind of a scare the other day. I was backing down on my anchor at full revurse, and black smoke & carbon/oil was comming out of my exaust. I thought my motor was gone, but it ended up being excissive growth on the prop (over loading the motor). Two weeks in cartagena and the prop was full of barnicles.

My friend Bruce (My first charter in the San Blas) is comming to visit in a week. He wants to see Cartagena. And Daniella is going to Bogata, and off exploring Colombia. I´m kind of jelious as this is such a beautiful country. I´m planning to explore a bit of South America when I leave the boat in Ecuador around the first of the year.

Cheers everyone.

Sail far & live slow

– Alex

All is well, however I´m still quite weak.

I had to change my anchor chain with a friends today as I´m getting mine galvonized which will take a few weeks. Changing the chain, and re-anchoring really wiped me out. I´m also having a carpinter bid a few projects for me tomorrow.

Daniella has been great. She is going to travel the interior of Colombia in a few days. We will probably meet back up in the San Blas for a while in a month or so.

I´m toying with the idea of sailing to Aruba for a while. October is the month to make way east, and it might be a cool place to spend a few months, who knows, just an idea.

I cant believe it is allready September, time is flying by, I feel like I´ll be in the Pacific before I´ll know it.

I´m dreaming of the South Pacific.

Hope everyone is well.

Peace, Love, and Salsa!

I´ve been really sick for the past few days. I got a parasite. When I got to the hospital I had a 40 degree fever, I think thats 104 fh. The hospital was very nice, and the doctors were top notch. They got me on a few IV´s, and I was out in a few hours.

I´m sure I´ll be in bed for the next few days.

Hope everyone is well.

– A

All is well, however I had a bit of a rough trip. Twenty miles out of the San Blas I was hit by a substantial Choko Sano. I was sailing along in 12 knots of wind. I went below to put on some shorts when Namaste was knocked down. We were blasted with 48 knots of wind. I had all sail up with no reefs. I ran outside and cut the main & jib, and ran forward to douse the stay. The waves picked up and grew quickly. My 2 passengers did well but stayed in the cabin. All my books, videos, CD´s, and food were on the cabin soul. The storm lasted for about 45 minutes. Over the next 2 days I went through 2 substantial squalls, both around 35 knots.

It´s nice to be back in Cartagena, there are many familiar faces.

I´ll write a detailed log within the next few days, I´m still trying to clean up the boat.

I have to be a bit honest, I came to Cartagena to chase a girl, hoping it goes well.

Peace, Love, and reef early!!!!!

Alex

Last night was like being in the middle of a bombing run. I was sure that Namaste would be struck by lightning. A direct hit would fry every stitch of electronics on board, my cameras, laptop, hard drives, sailing electronics & water maker, radar, my wiring, lights, the whole damn kit & caboodle. There is a large EMP after a strike, and I think it would probably bulk erase all my video tapes as well, I’d be wiped out, last night I was fearful, just for a while though.

When I left Los Angeles after the break up with my fiancé I walked away from everything and it was the best thing that I ever did, it was my beginning, my re-birth if you will.

I was watching “fight club” last night (it’s one of my favorite films). There is a great line by Tyler Derden (Brad Pitt) as he’s giving Ed Norton a chemical burn. He looks deep into his eyes and says “It’s only after we’ve lost everything that we’re free to do anything”. It’s so true. I’ll say it again, “you don’t own your possessions, they own you”.

You’d be surprised to know how many emails I get from people that dream of doing what I’m doing but just cant, they’re either too plugged into master control, or crippled with fear of the sea. Life has a double edge, and everything has a price. If we are too afraid to live the life we dream, and death is the absence of life, we’re not really living are we? I don’t mean to be too much of an anarchist, but burn it down, get out, and take freedom buy the scruff and demand it. Freedom was an illusion I thought I always had, it wasn’t until recently I realized I had know idea what freedom meant. In my opinion we only have one shot at this ball game, and working full time until I’m 65 is too much of a price to pay for a bunch of crap I don’t want or need. I will not sacrifice my life for a house & car, what have we become? By the end of the lightning storm I wasn’t worried anymore; if I have to go back to the bottom I’m cool with that. I’m not going to stay in port in fear of loosing a mast, running into a hurricane, or being struck by lightning. Fear is control, and I really don’t like being controlled.

I have a homework assignment for all you who dream of getting out of the system. Rent two movies tonight, “Fight Club”, and the original “Matrix”, what great films. Don’t bother with the other Matrix’s, they’re garbage.

I think a lot of us “dreamers” must reassess our attitudes and prioritize what is really important to us.

I believe that if you dream hard enough you can make it real.

Peace, Love, & Freedom!

– Alex

Well I sailed to Porvaneer this morning, got my Zarpe, and checked Namaste out of Panama. I’m bringing an English couple to Cartagena with me for a few extra bucks; it will be nice to have some company. They are coming in on the morning flight, and we will make way for the Eastern Holindays.

Cartagena is about 200 miles ENE of my location, and will take around 50 hours to get there.

I’ll be cleaning up the boat tonight, and getting ready for visitors again.

I’m quite fond of Cartagena, and I’m thinking of making an inland trip to the jungle, and Tyrona National park.

I hope everyone is well.

Peace, Love, & Coconuts

– Alex

Someone asked for my GPS Position:

09 35.231 North 078 52.721 West

I really need days like this.

I got up with the rain at about 0400 (4am), and collected about 15 gallons of fresh water. The lightning was close, and I worried about a strike. I also had a really nice shower with the sun rise. I lather up in the rain and jump in the water to rinse off. Then the rain washes away the salt, it’s a pretty good system.

I decided to make bread this morning, and had the doe ready by 0830. My friend from Tyrona came by to listen to my SSB radio to hear the local weather report. He just lost his mast in a Choko Sano, and will motor to Colon for repairs.

Bread was ready by 1030, I was starving, I started eating it in the pot and burned the roof of my mouth.

I didn’t listen to music or anything today, nor did I read. I just lounged around in the rain, swam a bit, and thought about life. I spend a lot of time thinking, and day dreaming.

When I got up this morning there was a beautiful black ketch (Formosa 41 I think) in the anchorage. A heavy-set man came up the companion way and waved hello. All was pretty normal except the fact that he was wearing a bra & tight panties. I spit hot coffee through my nose. I’m all about personal freedom and all, it just really took me by surprise, I couldn’t help but laugh, and then I felt bad.

I spent most of the day wondering if I will always be a solo sailor or will I look for a companion? I had a very hard break-up 4 years ago when I found out my fiancé was having an affair. Looking back I know it wasn’t all her fault, but it really tore me up. I’ve had a few relationships since then, but nothing too close, I’ve made sure of that. I don’t know if I want a relationship though, I’m so good on my own. I’m happy, I wouldn’t say I’m lonely, and everything seems so perfect. I guess I’m wondering if something is wrong with me, am I getting weird out here? Maybe it’s because I turned 40. I have no kids, no ex-wives; I don’t even have a current girlfriend. I do have a small gecko running around the boat somewhere,he’s kind of my pet I guess, but I haven’t seen him for a few weeks, I hope he’s still alive.

Well my brain is getting all full-up with thoughts, and it’s time for a purge. The sun is getting low, it must be around 1700. I’m going to the reef to look for some dinner.

Well I’m back. I had to row back from my dive, I guess I’ll be taking apart the outboard tomorrow; it’s time for a cleaning. I caught nothing. I had one shot at a nice sized grouper, but lost him in the reef, I guess I’ll eat a can of something tonight.

I’m going a little stir crazy. I want some ocean sailing days; I want to feel like I’m going somewhere. I have mucho hurricanes to the north, Colombia to the South, headwinds to the east, and the canal to the West, I guess its head winds to the east. I’m going to Cartagena and beat into the wind for a while. My Visa expires in a few weeks, and I need to get out of the country anyway. Cartagena is awesome, and I could get some work done on the boat. I’ll start watching the weater and take off within a week unless something else pops up.

Sail far, live slow.

Peace, Love & Deep Thoughts.

– Alex

I looked at my California driver’s license today and smiled. It’s expired. I have no address other then my GPS coordinates, no storage, no car, nothing with the exception of what is on my little 28’ sailboat. What has become of me, do I exist?

My uncle once told me that “your possessions end up owning you”, it’s so very true.

Freedom is something I will never be able to live without again. I think a lot of people need the structure of society, a home base, and to know what’s on the other side of the street. Maybe I have a crossed wire or some serious gypsy blood, but I could never give this up to return to my old life. When I started this trip it was about taking 5 years to circle the globe, it’s something completely different now. I would have to say it’s about living the life I’ve always dreamed of, and becoming the man I always aspired to be. When I was young I never wanted to be famous or rich. I just wanted to sail the world, make friends, and spend most of my time in the water. That’s what I do now, and that’s really, REALLY cool.

A tropical wave is passing outside. Lightning’s washing over the night sky, U2 is playing on the CD player, and it’s blowing about 20 kts. I’m in 15 feet of water, the anchor chain is almost completely extended, and Namaste’s stern in only 20 feet from the beach. My oil lamp is lighting my little world, and I can see the glow of the fires in the Kuna huts. It’s pouring rain. Life is really good, and I’m so happy I can’t see straight.

I can hear that my buckets are full of fresh water; I have to go out and dump them in the tank. I’ve gone through a lot of fresh water in the last week, and want to collect every drop.

Do something extraordinary.

Sail far, live slow.

Peace, Love, & Lightning.

– Alex

Well Peggy & Andrea flew back to the States today. They really enjoyed their time aboard Namaste and said if anyone is interested in chartering Namaste to feel free to contact them for a referral. Another satisfied customer!

Today I’ve just been cleaning up, and had to replace the pump on the head.

Tomorrow I’m going to change the motor oil, and oil in the gearbox. I’m going back to Cartagena for a few weeks. I’m going to get the anchor chain galvanized, and have the bronze guy make gaskets for my port holes, I also need to have my carpenter buddy do some wood work. All this labor will cost between $1.00, and $2.00 an hour, and for really good work. Materials are equally as economic.

I’m going to try and bring a few passengers (backpackers) with me for the trip east.

I hope everyone is well, and if you’re thinking of taking a week or so off, shoot me an email, I’ll show you a really special place (San Blas).

Cheers everyone.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

I’m in the Swimming pool with Andrea & Peggy. We’re eating lots of fresh Lobster & fish, doing lots of snorkeling, and generally having a good time.

Andrea has wanted to experience a storm on the boat, and she got her wish yesterday.

Some friends of mine set sail (On Melody) for Cartagena yesterday morning. They were about 3 hours out, radioed back, and informed us a particularly violent Choko Sano just passed and that we should prepare for 60+ knot winds, as that is what they just experienced.

About 20 minutes later it was blowing just over 40. I had time to pull the outboard off the dingy this time, clear he decks, start the motor, and when it came, I was fully prepared.

About an hour later a Swedish boat I know (Tyrona) limped into the anchorage. Her mast was lashed to the deck in two halves and there were four very gloomy faces onboard.

The Captain told me “it was like sailing into a brick wall”. They had 8-10 knots of wind, and were sailing along peacefully. Within a few seconds it was blowing a consistent 60, gusting higher, and snapped the rig like a popsicle stick. Luckily nobody was hurt, and they were at the end of the passage from Cartagena.

After Andrea & Peggy leave on Monday Morning, I’m going to take some back packers to Cartagena. I can make a grand each way and really need the money. It can be a particularly nasty stretch of ocean, but as always, I’ll be hoping for the best, and preparing for the worst.

I’ll only be back in Cartagena for a few weeks. I need to galvanize my chain, have some wood work done, and have gaskets made for my port holes. After that I’ll take 4 more backpackers back to Panama and order some solar panels.

I hope everyone is well.

Peace, Love, and keep your rig!!!!!

– Alex

My charter (Andréa & Peggy) are here, and having a great time. They are buying a lot of Molas. I’m going to have them write a log in a few days. I need to make breakfast & coffee now, but I wanted to drop a line.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

I Left Isla Linton yesterday morning around 0730, and made It to ChiChime around 1750. It’s nice to be back in the San Blas again. The kids came out on there ulues (Dug-out’s), and my Kuna friends waved from the beach as I entered the anchorage.

My friend Jaime was in the anchorage when I pulled in with his French buddy that just flew in for a couple of weeks. There was also an Australian boat with some Norwegians on board. We all bought some local crabs & lobsters, made a fire on the beach, and had a really nice evening. I had a bit too much Rum, but that’s the way it goes sometimes, I’m paying for it this morning.

I check into the Panama Connection Net on the SSB most mornings. The Panama Connection Net meets daily on 8107 USB @ 1330 Zulu if anyone wants to check in and say hi. It was nice to hear all the “welcome backs” from my friends.

I’m excited to pickup my charter on Sunday. I really enjoy showing people this very special place. Although I have to leave the San Blas in a few months, I really conceder it the most wonderful place I’ve seen to date. There has been news in the papers that says the Panamanian President has big plans for the San Blas. They are talking about cruise ship ports, and big hotels. What a tragedy it would be if the government came in and took control away from the Kuna. I fear that our children or our children’s children will never know a place of such natural beauty. What are we doing?

That’s it, I’m going to be cleaning today and tomorrow, making some more bread (I’m getting quite good at it), and doing some spear fishing.

If you have the time, please send an instant message to say hi.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

Now that I’m “old French soup” my cruisehimers is acting up, I often don’t know what day it is, but I know today?

Today is Tuesday July, 19, 2005. I know this because I’m watching the day’s closely; I actually have to be somewhere. I’m picking up my Charter (Andrea & Peggy) in Porvaneer (San Blas) on the 24th.

I don’t wear a watch any more because the sun’s position is so reliable, it’s very easy to tell the time by looking at the sun, I’m usually accurate within 30 minutes. I can always tell when it’s the weekend because jet ski’s start zipping through the anchorage Friday evening and continue through Sunday. There is a really good pizza place open on Friday through Sunday about 5 miles away. When the Jet Ski’s come it’s time for Pizza, YUMMY!!!!!

AHHHHHHH, the days in my old age are sooooo relaxing, 40 is turning out to be the best year yet. :)

Today I did something Amazing, I made bread. Its good bread and I made it without an oven, on the stove top. I met a nice French couple a few weeks ago (François & Cathleen) and they have made my life fuller. They taught me how to make a really nice spiced rum (I’m going to test it on my Charter Andrea & Peggy), Cathleen showed me where wild cilantro grows, and today she taught me to make bread. François showed me how to pick, and make calabash bowls. They also gave me some taguar. Taguar is a large seed used to make jewelry, it looks and feels like ivory when formed & polished. I’m going to make myself a nice wale-tail necklace with it.

How is it I can be so broke and have such a full life, why didn’t someone tell me this when I was 20? I have less then $800 to my name and not a care in the world, life is truly awesome. I guess the downside of being broke is no full-time girlfriend. François really lucked out with Cathleen. They make beautiful jewelry together and sell it along the way. They live on next to nothing, and are happy as a couple of clams. I’ll take a photo and post it on the site. They have a small 30’ steel boat. They also have a sewing machine and are going to help me make some cockpit cushions when I get back from the San Blas.

If anyone wants to come and see the San Blas I’m available the first week of August. Drop me an email at (adorsey@skyfile.com). I may run some backpackers from Panama to Colombia for some extra $$$. Backpackers cant get from Panama to Columbia by foot so they must fly or sail, most choose to sail.

It’s good to know freedom; I never knew it until I left.

Peace, Love, good Friends, and fresh bread.

– Alex

Today is my Birthday, I am 40 years old :)

I had a French couple (François & Cathleen) and my Australian buddy Jamie over for dinner last night. I made a nice Pesto pasta, cucumber salad, and mushrooms that I fried in fresh garlic & port, it came out quite nice.

When we were on our 3rd bottle of wine we found ourselves talking about age and birthdays. In a thick French accent Cathleen turned to me and said “4T is good age 4 the man, we have a saying in France, you make the best soup with the old pot, you understand this meaning, yes?” I turned to her and said “Yes I understand Cathleen; today I am like old French soup”. She burst into a good laugh.

I’ve been up since about 3:30am lying in bed looking up at the stars through the hatch.

I don’t have the money I thought I’d have when I was 20, and I had promised myself that I would be in the best physical shape of my life when I turned 40. I didn’t really make either of those marks; however it is my birthday resolution to be in excellent physical shape for 41. I have managed however to finally find my place on this earth and I think that’s far more of an accomplishment. I might be like old French soup, but you know what, I’m happy about it.

As I’m writing this I’m trying to figure out what I can do “Special” for myself today. I can’t think of anything more special that what I do every day. I have this HUGE smirk on my face rite now, sucess feels good.

I would like to go swimming but I’m a bit hesitant. I dove into a school of jellies after the storm yesterday and got a good sting. I had to swim back to the boat with one arm; that kind of sucked.

I think I’m going to hike up to a water fall and take some pictures.

As always, I hope everyone is well & happy.

Peace, Love, & Old French soup.

– Alex

I was caught up in the final pages of “Digital Fortress” by Dan Brown, when I noticed a strange sky out of the port hole.

I reluctantly lay the book down to pear outside. The strangest clouds I’d ever seen. They looked lick giant breaking seas…, waves…, thousands of feet high and relatively low on the horizon. “That doesn’t look good” I thought to myself, “they really do look like breaking seas in the sky”. I felt like an ant floating on a leaf looking up at some good California surf.

A moment later my inflatable flipped over, and my 4hp Yamaha was upside down in the water. Namaste started to heel as if we were sailing under the main, then we were hit with about a 45/50 knot gust. My weight kept me from flipping over in the dingy as I was taking off the motor, and heaving it on to Namaste’s deck. I haven’t been to wild about my choice of anchorage as when my chain is fully extended I’m about a boat length from the reef. It’s covenant for snorkeling, but not if the wind drags us into the reef. Namaste’s rudder would be the first thing to hit.

I quickly started Namaste’s diesel, and got ready to scoot if need be. The wind lasted about 25 minutes blowing about 25/35, and gusting to about 40/45, there wasn’t even that much rain.

All is well; I don’t think the anchor drug an inch. I was thinking it was a Choko-Sano, but they usually come from land. I really need to learn more about the weather. Jamie is going to give me a crash course on my sextant this week, and I think I’ll ask my buddy Chris to give me the same on weather when he returns from the states.

I know the weather basics, but I want to feel like I have a really good understanding on how all the weather elements react to each other. We have had really low tides due to the hurricane to the north of us, and the locals tell me that after it passes a lot of rain comes which was the case yesterday.

Anyway I’m going back to NSA headquarters in Washington to finish my book.

Peace, Love, and Wind.

– Alex

I apologize for being so long on an update, but my email was down, and I had problems with my mail server.

I don’t know what possessed me, but I started varnishing Namaste’s interior. The boat is a mess, but WOW! Does it look nice. I’m only working on the galley now, and have a lot more work as Namaste’s entire interior is wood.

I’m turning 40 on the 14th, BLAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!! Not old, but not young either. My friend Jaimie is back from Colombia (His picture is in the “Friends & Guests section”), and we are chicken busing it to the internet, and super market in the morning.

If you sent email, and I didn’t respond please resend it, I think I lost a bunch.

This whole bombing thing really has me down.

Hope everyone is well.

Peace, Love, and Coconuts.

Yesterday wasn’t so bad, I woke up to clear skies & sunshine. The weather is a funny thing, about as un-predictable as my last girlfriend. Looking out my porthole is a different story this morning. I see a text book example of a tropical wave approaching from the east.

With the approaching Thunder & Lightning I decided to learn a bit about it. I looked up lightning on Encarta and came across a list of phobias. Did you know Astraphobia is the fear of lightning, and Brontophobia is the fear of thunder? Monophobia is the fear of being alone, and Aquaphobia is the fear of water. It made me smile because I realized I could be a lot more screwed up then I am. It gets even funnier though. Blennophobia is the fear of slime, and Clinophobia is the fear of going to bed, Emetophobia is the fear of vomiting, and Linonophobia is the fear of string. Nudophobia is the fear of nudity, and Trichophobia is the fear of hair. My favorite is Dementophobia which is the fear of going insane. My question is if you are Dementophobic, are you not already insane? At the end of all this I found that it’s possible to be Phobophobic which is the fear of Phobias in general. If you have Encarta look up Phobia, it’s probably worth a laugh or two. Actually I’d think there were a lot of people who didn’t think this was funny at all and quite cruel, and if you are one of those people I’m sorry.

What is the fear of reading online sailing logs?

Anyway I’m just bored and trying to amuse myself.

I’m going to spend a few more days in the San Blas and head for Isla Linton where I can catch a bus to Panama. I’m going to go back to the hotel that has the in-room internet so I can upload some pictures, and get some work done.

Oh, and by the way, Pogonophobia is the fear of Beards.

Peace, love, and Cocophobia.

– Alex

Today was a good day.

My Kuna friend Julio woke me up with fresh baked bread ($0.20), and I fried up some potatoes, onion, and green pepper for breakfast. The sun was out in full swing today and I wanted to take advantage of it since 4 tropical waves are stacked up and will visit me over the next few days bringing lots of rain, thunder, & lightening.

I went spear fishing after breakfast, and shot a nice school-master for lunch (sorry Bruce). Bruce left me a book (Jack Higgans “Drink with the Devil”), I made it to page 231 today, not a bad book.

I bought some nice food & wine for the charter and there is just a bit left over, I’m living large tonight. I made a nice tortellini with pesto, and my friends from “Hiatus” gave me some fresh bread from the bread maker. I cracked a nice bottle of Vino Tinto (red wine) from Argentina, and I’m watching the light show approaching Namaste. I’m sure it will be a wet night. I put a Sting CD on to score the evening and everything seems a bit surreal.

I wish I could convey the peace I’m feeling with words, perhaps it’s the wine but not really, tonight is golden.

I’ve gotten a bunch of emails lately and some of you think I’m getting a bit philosophical, maybe so, but isn’t that what we should do? Isn’t it our responsibility to figure this whole thing we call life out? It’s just nice to have time to think.

Anyway, I’m going for a night swim to cool off, and finish the evening by reading till my eyes are too heavy to keep open.

Peace, love & Coconuts.

– Alex

Well my charters gone. Bruce is in the process of getting a boat, and he’s going cruising within the year. He wanted to get an idea of what the cruising life was like, and he seems pretty convinced now. We spent a few days in ChiChime, and then went to the swimming pool where all the cruisers gather for the Monday night garbage burning party. If anyone’s interested in chartering, I’ll give you Bruce’s email address so you can get a better idea of the experience.

After I dropped Bruce off at the airport this morning I sailed over to ChiChime in the rain, and I’m planning to spend a week or so here working of some video for Latitudes & Attitudes.

I hope everyone is well.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

Alex is being lazy today-making me write the log again! Almost think he was the one on vacation!! Had a great day yesterday-tried to sail over from Chichime, but alas…no wind, so we had to motor. Beautiful warm, clear day. Small pod of dolphins came to check us out…really cool.

Heard a “crack” about halfway here. Looked to find what happened and discovered that the sun had caused one of our coconuts to break open. Being the resourceful sailors that we are, we drained out the milk, added sugar, fresh lemon juice and – you guessed it – some of Panamas finest rum- and had cocktails. Rough way to live!! Arrived at anchorage mid afternoon, and went fishing. No luck, but you should have seen the one that got away…delicious looking ocean trigger fish!

Since Alex knows everyone here we were invited to a cruisers party on another boat last evening. I was impressed by all the genuinely warm, friendly people we met, and their stories of the years of living, and adventure, at sea. One young couple and their two remarkable kids-ages 10 and 12- have been cruising for 5 years and hope to continue for 5 more. What an education for those two girls…what an accomplishment for their parents. So much for “ I can’t go cruising because of the children”!!

Being here is like living on a tropical island. Although I’m getting only a glimpse, I know what I’ll be doing when I get back. I will dare to live the dream.

-Bruce

Hey all! This is Bruce on Namaste…three hours from Miami, and how many hundred years back in time?? I’ve been in underdeveloped countries before…doing tours by bus, walking through the streets and always retreating afterwards to a hotel room, or a cruise ship and commenting on just how backward and underprivileged the people were. How much they DIDN’T have…how poor they seemed to be.

Namaste isn’t luxury. She’s compact and comfortable and an abject lesson in all you really need. Anchored 50 feet offshore from a beautiful island in the San Blas Archipelago, we can watch firsthand how Kuna Indian Families live. We see their daily routine; watch them interact with each other and with their occasional guests-like Alex and me- on our sailboats. We gain insight, and contentment even, from their simple way of life. They play with their kids, and dogs, and each other. They catch fish, bake bread (both of which we gladly buy!!) and don’t have to worry about their next mortgage or car payment or how much the insurance for all their “stuff” will cost this year.

For our part- for Alex – the scene and the experience can change on a moments notice… haul the anchor, raise the sail, and be off. Less stress, great view, peace and solitude, and the satisfaction of being virtually self sufficient. Who has the better lifestyle? Who are the poor ones?

Makes you think…or perhaps it should!!

Well I just dropped the hook in Por Vaneer.

The Kuna women rushed Namaste upon my arrival. I gave some candy to the children, and adults, and bought a new sarong (a manly man skirt).

I got out of Isla Grande at about 5am, and it’s 5pm now, so just under 12 hours. I haven’t had to trim my sails as much as I did today sine I use to race many years ago. Talk about variable winds, they clocked around me 4 times. I’d be on a broad reach then a beam reach, then I’d be running. Funnily enough I never seemed to be directly into the wind and was able to sail all day. I went through 3 squalls, man they come on fast. I was on a nice reach (10kts), then BAM, it’s blowing 30 from behind, that’ll wake you up!

I also caught a nice mackerel for lunch. A squall hit just as I started frying it up. I was able to run up on deck, reef the main and trim everything, without even burning my lunch : )

My guest comes day after tomorrow for a week so I might be kind of out of touch. I’m going to ask him to write a log though so you get someone else’s perspective.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

You know when I started this trip I was your average coastal (weekend) sailor. I always had a sea-tow card in my back pocket along with good insurance. I didn’t really know how to anchor (even after 10 years), and I wasn’t the shining Super Sailor you see before you today, “Ahhhh…, maybe NOT”.

I was in Isla Linton and a line of squalls was approaching from the South West. I had just finished stocking the boat with food, and wanted to move to Isla Grande before night fall. Navigating the reef out of Linton is a…, well you know. I want to head for San Blas at around 4am and I’d rather leave from Isla Grande.

I always seem to make mistakes when I’m over confident. I didn’t feel the need to power up the sailing electronics, or the GPS just to move a few miles.

Well guess who ran aground, yup…, you got it…, me. I was sitting in 2 feet of water. I wanted to get out before the squalls hit but it didn’t really work that way. Luckily a boat came by and pulled me off for no charge, I got pretty wet though. You know what they say, “If you never run aground, you never go anywhere”, I still don’t like it, thank God it wasn’t a reef.

Hey…, The new preview of the DVD was posted on the web site this weekend. If you watch it, send me an email and tell me what you think. The Windows Media movies look better then the quick time ones.

That’s about it, I’m off before the sun.

Hope everyone had a good weekend.

Peace Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

Every once in a while I burst out laughing, perhaps it a sign that I’m spending too much time alone or perhaps I’m just loosing my mind, or a combination of both.

This morning was like most. I woke up around 5:20am, made a cup of coffee and laid-down in the cockpit.

It was truly a beautiful sunrise. The monkeys on Isla Linton were making a racket on the beach, and a flock of big Blue McCaws flew over head. It wasn’t raining, but lightning lit the jungle over the mainland as the sun was rising. My CD of choice this morning was Niel Young’s (After the Gold Rush). I just thought to myself “WOW”, this is normal. This isn’t a vacation or a transitory chapter of my life; this is how I choose to live. How is it I used to be so good at my job, and so bad at living my life? Why did I spend so many years pursuing things and people that didn’t really matter…, why did I waste so much time?

I’ll be heading back to the San Blas in a few days. I can’t wait to get back to my daily routine of reading, spear-fishing, cooking, writing, and generally being at peace with the world around me. I haven’t spent much of my life at peace with anything; it’s really a welcome change. The days feel like putting on that old sweater that fits so well, you can never replace it, nor would you want to, it just fits, and makes you smile every time you wear it.

Another thought crossed my mind which made me a bit sad. The longer I’m away, the less in common I have with my old friends. I feel like I’m detaching from my old life, leaving it far in the past. A few days ago I looked through the pictures of my life. I couldn’t recognize myself. My hair, cloths, car, girlfriends were so…, I don’t know…, perfectly imperfect.

I’m getting serious about shooting the next DVD. I’m thinking it will be “Colombia to New Zealand”, that should be a good one eah?

Enough babble.

Find some time for yourself this weekend. When was the last time you just listened to music, not while you were doing something else, just sit down and listened to music? If your under 20, probably not that long ago, and chances are if your over 65 probably not that long ago either. The days in the middle of our life seem to be painfully slow sometimes, but the years fly by, at least that’s how it used to be for me, what a waste. Forgetting about your peace is a hard lesson to learn, we don’t get those years back. We must take time for ourselves, and selfish is not a bad word unless you’re hurting someone.

Take time!

Peace, love, and Coconuts.

– Alex

All work and no play makes Alex a dull boy.

The past few weeks have been a lot of work for me. I had to cut two BlueSphere segments (4 minutes each) for the Latitudes & Attitudes cable show, and cut a trailer (preview) of the DVD to stream from the website. I’m hoping it boosts sales as I really want to get through the canal within the next 4 months. I’m kind of out from under the 8-ball for the moment however I still need to deliver 4 more segments for the TV show and continue shooting and working on the next cruising DVD. I’m also going through 3 years of video tapes and making video clips to post on the website not to mention writing. Logs, and replying to emails (which is the highlight of my day).

How did my trip turn into so much work?

I suppose it could be worse ; )

Namaste’s first charter is coming up on the 15th, and I need to be back in the San Blas. I’ll let you all know how it goes. I’m going to give my first victim a video camera upon arrival and let him do a bit of shooting. I’ll post some of the video clips, and pictures, I’m really hoping I’m a good host, and he has a good time.

My outboard quit today, it was just one of those days. I had to go to Colone (The arm pit of the world) and get a FedEx out, 2 hours on a chicken bus each way.

On the way back I bought a bunch of real food for the charter and my back-Pac weighed about 80lbs. I did a bit of walking and my knees started to shake. I guess it was from lots of sweat, no water, and 95 degrees. All I wanted to do was get back to my beloved “Namaste”, and take a swim. Murphy kicked my ass today. My outboard quit and I had to row (with one paddle) a bit over a mile : (

I can’t tell you how happy I was to get back, take a dip, and dive back into my book (The Tipping Point).

Anyway I just had a really nice dinner, and I just want to thank all of you who bought the DVD. Project BlueSphere has been 3 years of work with no pay, and it looks like it might turn around a bit. My goal isn’t to get rich, just to be able to live the life, and share it with everyone who has ever dreamed of doing the same.

Don’t be strangers out there, please send lots of Instant messages and let me know who you all are.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

A friend emailed this to me yesterday, and I had to post it.

“I don’t know if you ever read this quote from Sterling Hayden the actor but here it is from Sterling Hayden’s book “Wanderer””

To be truly challenging, a voyage, like a life, must rest on a firm foundation of financial unrest. Otherwise you are doomed to a routine traverse, the kind known to yachtsmen, who play with their boats at sea – “cruising,” it is called. Voyaging belongs to seamen, and to the wanderers of the world who cannot, or will not, fit in. If you are contemplating a voyage and you have the means, abandon the venture until your fortunes change. Only then will you know what the sea is all about.

“I’ve always wanted to sail to the South Seas, but I can’t afford it.” What these men can’t afford is not to go. They are enmeshed in the cancerous discipline of “security.” And in the worship of security we fling our lives beneath the wheels of routine – and before we know it our lives are gone.

What does a man need – really need? A few pounds of food each day, heat and shelter, six feet to lie down in – and some form of working activity that will yield a sense of accomplishment. That’s all – in the material sense. And we know it. But we are brainwashed by our economic system until we end up in a tomb beneath a pyramid of time payments, mortgages, preposterous gadgetry, playthings that divert our attention from the sheer idiocy of the charade.

The years thunder by. The dreams of youth grow dim where they lie caked in dust on the shelves of patience. Before we know it the tomb is sealed.

Where, then, lies the answer? In choice. Which shall it be: bankruptcy of purse or bankruptcy of life?

The minimalist sailor.

I like to think of myself as a minimalist sailor, however I am not. I do fit into the category of “Small boat Cruisers” with my 28’ Westsail, however I have many luxuries. The one thing I really need to get before any distance sailing (crossing the Pacific), are solar panels. I need solar panels to power all of my luxuries. I’ve kind of worked myself into this corner and I don’t know if I’d do it again.

My little “Namaste” is truly a well-fitted yacht as she boasts radar, depth, water speed, sea temp, wind instrumentation, 3 auto pilots, 3 GPS’s, a water maker, refrigeration, a wind generator, 1000 amp inverter, stereo system (External amp & CD), DVD player (Laptop computer & Printer), SSB & VHF radios, diesel heat, pressure water, furling gear, satellite phone & email, not to mention electronic lights, alcohol stove, and a diesel engine.

All of this stuff is really expensive and at the end of the day, doesn’t make a sailboat go anywhere. I set out to be a minimalist sailor, and I fear I have failed horribly.

I get hundreds (more into the thousands from the begging of my trip) of emails from you guys that are dreaming of doing the same thing I’m doing. The dream of freedom is a beautiful one, and doesn’t have to be expensive. The very boat you sail could cost you under 6, or 7 thousand dollars. We live in a society that keeps us working to buy new things, and to maintain the things we own and have become accustomed to needing. “Rubbish” I say. I forget who I need to credit for the quote but someone sad “Ask not how much we can acquire, but how little we need” something like that. Wouldn’t we (some of us) be happier with less?

If anyone’s really interested in turning your dream into a reality, I suggest the first step you take is buying Annie Hill’s book “Voyaging on a Small Income”, you can find a link on the BlueSphere site somewhere.

I’m also open to questions, and would GLADLY, help anyone through the process of unplugging from the system and following there dreams. And I don’t want to hear “But I have Kids”, the coolest, most well adjusted, and educated children I’ve met have been cruising kids.

All cruisers have different cruising styles. I’m anchored here in Isla Linton in Panama. My friend Jamie (Possibilities) is anchored next to me. He is in a small, fiberglass sloop, with an outboard that doesn’t work, and he’s sailed Possibilities here from Australia via Africa. Jamie has no electronics to speak of; however he may have a handheld GPS. There was also an American boat here that ran their generator all day & night because they needed full time air conditioning. Not a very nice practice for your neighbors, but that’s what made them happy, and that was their cruising style. I’m afraid to think of how much money they spend in diesel.

Anyway, I’m off to possibilities for pancakes & coffee. Cheers.

– Alex ” The non-minimalist sailor :( “

Well I’m back in Isla Linton. I sailed (motored) about 55 miles yesterday from the San Blas.

My visa, and cruising permit expire in a few days, and I just found out that I need to go to Panama City for an extension.

As most of you know I love line fishing as Namaste is under way, yesterday was unsuccessful and frustrating (tuff day at the office). Early in the morning I caught a “Mystery Fish” that took my favorite lure. I never knew what it was, but it just bent my rod, gave a good tug, and snapped my very heavy line, it was defiantly “the big one that got away”. A few hours later I caught a Spanish mackerel which I lost just feet away from the boat “ARRRG”. At the end of the day I did something silly. I caught a 3+ foot shark and hauled him into Namaste’s cockpit. Fish are pretty dumb, and very scared when you pull them out of the water, killing them quickly and putting them out of their misery seems like the thing to do. This was not the case with this shark, he was truly pissed off and wanted to take a chunk out of me before I killed him. I swim with sharks all the time. They are really beautiful creatures, which demand a bit of respect, they’re also good eating. I didn’t have the heart to cut this guy open as he was just a teenager. I did however have to figure out how to get my lure back and set him free. “Sharkie” was really tearing up the cockpit. I almost lost my binoculars over the side, he broke a pair of my sunglasses, and managed to Rev-up the motor as he was knocking about. I finally grabbed some pliers, pinned him down, and started at the hook. I had him pinned pretty well, and even though he (possibly She) was trying to bite, I felt comfortable enough to work the hook out of its mouth. I grabbed it by the tale and flung Sharkie back into the sea. The funny thing is he came back and swam along side Namaste for about ten seconds. Why would it do this? I took it as a “Thank You”.

A few days ago I was spear fishing with some friends (Gemini), and a black tip reef shark made a pretty close pass to me (about eight feet). When I was in the Bahamas a Bull Shark, got pretty aggressive, quickly swam at me a few times, and kicked me out of his turf and onto the reef. The only problem was that I cut myself up pretty good on the reef. The blood in the water didn’t help matters much; however I managed my way back to my dingie.

The only time I’ve seen sharks aggressive is after a fish has been speared. Their job is to keep the reef clean of weak and injured fish, and you can’t blame them for doing their job right?

All in all yesterday was a good day. I only got hit with one quick squall which was refreshing; it was time for a shower anyway. I will have more video on the site shortly, I’ve been wrapped up in another project which is over, and I’ll have a lot more time now.

Hope everyone is well, keep the instant messages coming.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– alex

I’ve been getting a lot of emails regarding my diet and cruising expenses. Funnily enough the two topics are related. I’m often pretty broke, and my diet fluctuates because of this. When I left Cartagena (3 months ago) I had provisioned pretty well, however most of all that “Super market” food is a distant memory for me. The biggest change in my diet is I’ve quit eating red meat and chicken. Originally I quit eating red meat and chicken because it’s not readily available here in the San Blas. When I was in Panama recently, I went out to have a big steak with my friend John (Little Wing), but I didn’t really enjoy it. That’s pretty strange considering the fact I have always been “Carnivore Man”. It’s like I just lost my taste for meat & chicken, but that’s cool, because I feel much better since I turned into an “almost” vegetarian. I have more energy, and I’ve lost a bunch of weight. The other good thing about my new diet is red meat and chicken are expensive and I don’t need that. I have turned into a fish nut though. I fish and spear fish every chance I get. Today I shot about a 7 pound oceanic trigger fish. Wow, what a good eating fish. It tastes like a combination of lobster & white fish, YUMMY!!!!

As far as expenses go, I don’t really have any. I need to pay for the website (Yearly contract), and pre paid minutes for my satellite phone, but that’s it, I have no other bills. I’m living on under $300.00 a month. Rice & beans are cheap, and I don’t drink a lot of alcohol or sodas which are expensive. I did however get a recipe to make sake and I’ll try making 5 gallons as soon as I find some yeast.

I haven’t been posting video because I need to get a new laptop, mine is close to the end, and can’t handle the new format (HI-DEF) I’m shooting in. I also need to get some solar panels. I’m not running my refrigerator, and it’s really hot here. Some cool water and being able to keep fish would be a treat. I’m also saving money to get through the canal. I’m really chomping at the bit to get across the Pacific. I also need the solar panels to power the auto pilot on long passages; they are a real “must” on a cruising boat.

You know what the funny thing is? No matter how much money I’ve made in the past, I’ve always been broke. I just had bigger and bigger bills every month. I’m so happy I’m not battling that rat-trap anymore.

All in all I’m just happy to have a simple life. This really works for me. I have good friends & health, and when I turn 40 in July (14th), I’ll be close to being in the best shape of my life. I eat very healthy, I swim every day, and most importantly I’m happy. I’d like to find that “special woman” at some point, but if I don’t I’m cool with that as well. I know when I get old and wrinkly I’ll have smile lines, because that’s what I do all the time, I smile, and that’s a far cry from the life I used to have. I don’t think my life is for everyone, but I’ve defiantly found my river of Chi and I’m flowing with it. At the end of the day that is what we must all do, it’s why we’re here. Milk life for all it’s worth. Let the taste of happiness drip from your lips no matter what you do. As I’m writing this I’ve realized something…, I’m a poor man, but I’m okay with that. If I die tomorrow, I’ll still have that smile on my face and I think that’s what counts. I hope in some way Project BlueSphere inspires people to follow there dreams. If I can do that, I’ll know I’m successful.

Keep sending the instant messages, I love hearing from all of you.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

One must take the good with the bad. And it is good practice to hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

50% of the boats here (20, out of 40) last year were struck by lightning. I don’t have to tell you how dangerous a lightning strike can be, especially for electronics. I outfitted Namaste with a static dissipater on the mast head, and grounded the mast to a grounding plate on the hull. Yesterday I took 2 lengths of rigging wire and connected them to my upper shrouds, and let the other ends dangle in the water. The theory being that the lightening will choose the quickest path to the ground, and take this course, let’s hope so.

On a cheery note, Julio and I shot a 20LB grouper yesterday, life is good feasting on fresh fish.

I have been shooting lots of video for the next DVD, and spending more and more time with my Kuna friends. I can’t wait to share the next DVD with everyone, I’ve learned so much.

I’d also like to welcome all the new subscribers from the Latitudes & Altitudes gang. Our first ad came out last month, and there are a lot more people in the Project BlueSphere.com family now.

If anyone out there knows a lot about lightning and how it acts please send me a note, I’d love to talk.

Peace, Love & Thunder.

– Alex

Here’s a new thing.

As many of you know my friends at Latitudes & Attitudes have their own TV show now. The Latitudes & Attitudes television show airs on The Men’s Channel (DISH Network, channel 218, plus select Comcast systems), and guess what I’m in episode #7 which airs next week. I’ll also be providing content for following episodes, I’ll let everyone know when my episodes will be airing, but if you have the time you should be watching all of the episodes, it’s a cool show.

I’m in Chichimi, and I’ll be sailing for the Coco Banderos in the morning to meet up with some friends and have some welding done.

If anyone wants to check out the San Blas let me know, I’ll charter for around the price of a hotel room, what a deal!

Hope everyone is well.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

I just set the anchor in Chichime (San Blas (N 9 35.260 W 78 52.763)), and I feel like I’ve arrived back home. I have really fallen in love with the San Blas, and the Kuna people. It’s simple here, you just live. There are no taxes, police, cars, electricity, phones, or any other stresses of civilization, just beautiful beaches, reefs, sunsets and coconuts. People are genuine, it’s so strange, but wonderful. After I dropped the hook two kuna girls paddled up in there ulu (Dugout canoe), I thought they were going to try and sell me some molas but one said “Buenos Alex”, they remembered me from when I was playing with the kids on the beach a month or so ago with my buddy John. I felt bad, I didn’t even remember their faces, never mind there names, I was ashamed. I’ll go to shore in the morning to buy fresh bread and coconuts. I bought a bunch of candy in Panama for the children, I’m sure it will be a big hit.

I caught half of a really big wahoo this afternoon on my way from Isla Linton (Abour 40 Miles). I had the line out but I guess I had the drag set to hi, along with the volume on the stereo. I heard a really big hit on the fishing rod, then nothing. When I started reeling it in, I realized there was something small fighting me. How could something so small of hit such a big lure? When I reeled it in, I noticed that I had half of the largest Wahoo I’d ever seen; it was still moving something just bit it perfectly in half, I must have been dragging it for a while. I was able to filet two huge steaks out of it, I had one for lunch, and one for dinner, it was the perfect size. What did I share my lunch with?

It’s really nice to be back in clear water, I can’t wait to go spear fishing for breakfast, and get back eating lots of fish, lobster, conch & crab, “Yummy”.

I hope everyone is happy, and finding their way, I think I’ve found mine.

Peace, Love & Coconuts.

– Alex

The rainy season is here.

The roar of howler monkeys can be herd in the hills of the Jungle. The tranquil growl of thunder rolls over Namaste and bathes her decks with fresh water and splashes of light.

“Tranquillo(Tranquil)” is my favorite word in Spanish, and the only way I can describe taking a shower in the rain water of a thunder storm. I miss the sun, but this is the change of the season here. In retrospect I have all the fresh water I need. My clothes are cleaner and I can shower twice a day. For me…, this is really living. The down side is, I’ve found a few new leeks on Namaste, and it’s harder to spot reefs in over cast conditions, oh well.

Some of you guys might remember my friend Eric, and his dog “Salty” on Mololo. I watched Salty for a few days in Port Antonio Jamaica last year while Eric spent some time with a friend. If you check the past logs you should find a picture of Salty, I think I was there in June.

A funny thing happened to me when I took Salty for a walk on the beach yesterday. I was approached by a few monkeys. They were walking upright, and coming to greet me, I think they wanted to make friends; they were just a few feet away. Well, you can just imagine what happened next. Yellow Lab in full sprint for monkeys, the chase is on! The Black & brown monkey next to me broke wind (really loud) as soon as he saw Salty, and sprang for the nearest tree. They proceeded to throw sticks & leaves at Salty as she gave her best effort at Palm tree climbing. As soon as Salty would loose interest and walk away, they would jump out of the trees and try to catch her until Salty turned around and started chasing them again. They would retreat to the trees and the whole thing started over again. This would have been a good bit of video for one of those animal shows. It was one of the funniest things I’d ever seen, I was crying I was laughing so hard, Salty got some good exercise.

I’ll be in the Isla Grande / Isla Linton area for a few more weeks before retreating back to the San Blas Islands.

Well that’s all I can think of for today, send an instant message and say hi.

Find peace, “Tranquillo” is good.

– Alex

Many consider Panama and the Canal Zone the crossroads of the world. There are many directions to travel from here and it’s often hard for one (especially me) to make a decision.

The Pacific is calling so loud I can’t stand it. I listen to boats sailing to the Galapagos, and the Marquesas every morning on the SSB radio. My mind wonders with images of the Pacific, good fishing, and long passages at sea. The reality is I can’t afford to go through the canal yet and I still need some solar panels to power Namaste’s autopilot (Quint), what to do, what to do….

I’ve decided to sail to Cabo Tiburon on the Panama/Columbian border, and work my way north-west through the San Blas archipelago. I’m going to document (film) the islands in detail, as well as the Kuna way of life. The Kuna are very hesitant on letting people take their picture and video is even harder to produce…, I do like a challenge though. The San Blas have been by far the best cruising grounds I’ve come across. The indigenous (Kuna) people are friendly, and the islands are the most beautiful place I’ve ever been. Hurricanes do not visit the San Blas, but the wet season is approaching, and lightening is a real problem. Each year a few boats get struck, and there are not many boats here so…., let’s hope my luck holds out.As soon as I sell enough DVD’s I’ll transit the canal, and cross the Pacific.

A few of you guys have requested info on chartering Namaste, and visiting the San Blas. If you’re interested send me an email to my Satellite phone (adorsey@skyfile.com). Please don’t send any attachments (text only), as bandwidth is limited and slow.

If you have time send me an instant message and say hi. The instant messages are free incoming to my phone, but expensive to reply. I reply to them from a land line so don’t take offense if it takes a wile, I will get back to you.

I’ll be in Isla Grande for a few more weeks before heading back to the San Blas. I’m editing some video segments for the new Latitudes & Attitudes TV show, I’ll let you guys know when, and where it will be airing.

I hope every one is well, don’t forget to live a little.

– Alex