Category Archives: Reflections

Navigating to a Brighter Future

Under the shade of a lanai, overlooking the water’s edge and open to the South Sea breezes, I settle in to write a few notes and watch the boats in the distance. The beautiful view inspired much reflection. Moorea, Society Islands. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Under the shade of a lanai, overlooking the water’s edge and open to the South Sea breezes, I settle in to write a few notes and watch the boats in the distance. The beautiful view inspired much reflection. Moorea, Society Islands. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg

Our visit to Huahine, Moorea and Tahiti was an emotional one for me. It not only marked the end of our Double X sailing journey, but also triggered a flood of memories of my earlier trips to the islands as well as my father’s deep love for the South Seas and his efforts to protect its beauty and majesty. In the midst of this reflection, I was also keenly aware that this would probably be the last time that I sail to these lovely islands that have captivated me for most of my life. Continue reading Navigating to a Brighter Future

Observations on the Open Ocean

Rod and me aboard the Double X on launch day. We’re a father-and-son team ready to join the crew and take on the Pacific Ocean crossing. Sausalito, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photo: L. Williams.
Rod and me aboard the Double X on launch day. We’re a father-and-son team ready to join the crew and take on the Pacific Ocean crossing. Sausalito, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photo: L. Williams.

It is the evening of July 26th, and we are just about to enter the doldrums. As I look out at the ocean, it’s totally calm. There’s no wind to be found. The water is flat and looks almost like glass. It is just beautiful. In fact, here in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, I’ve just witnessed one of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve ever seen in my life. (I’ll have a photo posted soon.) Continue reading Observations on the Open Ocean