Embracing Serenity: A Voyage to Visby and Beyond

Ahoy! Join us as we navigate the serene waters on our remarkable sailing expedition, where we set our sights on the captivating port of Visby and ventured further to the enchanting island of Fåno. From the tranquil days of calm winds to the exhilarating challenges we faced, let us recount the highlights of our unforgettable journey.

As we embarked on our voyage towards Visby, the days unfolded with gentle breezes and tranquil seas. The calm weather, which had graced our presence for days prior, enveloped us in a peaceful embrace. With every passing moment, we found ourselves drawn deeper into a state of tranquility, reveling in the unhurried pace of our maritime odyssey.

With Visby merely 14 nautical miles away, anticipation filled the air. Though the wind had ceased its whispers, we remained undeterred in our determination to reach our destination. Harnessing the power of patience and resourcefulness, we devised a plan to propel Sindbad forward. In an extraordinary display of strength and teamwork, we swam alongside our 10-ton vessel, pulling with unwavering resolve. Though progress was arduous, we reveled in the sheer determination that fueled our efforts.

Amidst the vast expanse of the sea, our spirits were buoyed by a fortuitous encounter. A compassionate Danish sailor, touched by our tenacity, graciously lent a helping hand. Guided by their expert navigation, we triumphantly sailed into the welcoming embrace of Visby’s bustling harbor. Overwhelmed with gratitude, we expressed our appreciation by treating our newfound friends to a feast of homemade pancakes, symbolizing the bonds formed through shared adventures.

Visby greeted us with open arms, immersing us in its vibrant culture and warm hospitality. Amidst our explorations, we found solace in a well-deserved shoreleave. Mounting our trusty bicycles, we embarked on an exhilarating journey along the rugged mountain coast, basking in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature’s spectacle. Each pedal stroke revealed breathtaking vistas and reminded us of the limitless wonders that await those who dare to venture beyond the familiar.

Our voyage continued as we charted a course towards the captivating island of Fåno, nestled north of Gotland. Anchoring in a secluded bay, we savored the tranquility and embraced the serenity that enveloped us. A refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters and a shared watermelon feast on the shore further elevated our spirits, cementing the lasting memories we created along this remarkable journey.

Our time in Visby and the enchanting island of Fåno epitomized the essence of our seafaring adventures. From the blissful serenity of calm winds to the camaraderie forged through shared endeavors, every moment served as a testament to the profound beauty of the maritime world. As we eagerly anticipate the next chapter of our voyage, we stand ready to embrace the unknown, united in our pursuit of new horizons and everlasting memories.

Fair winds and boundless horizons!

One full week of sailing and reaching Gotland without engine

Entering Sweden

Faster than estimated we reach the border between Sweden and Germany. It feels good to set up the guestcountry flag and we are looking forward to enter the Swedish coast and meet its typical Northern inhabitants. As a tradition which already started in Denmark we celebrate setting up the guest flag by listening to the national anthem and thinking about the country we are heading to and its culture.

Du gamle, du fria

Nightwatches

After two days of good wind and many nautical miles behind us, the wind is slowing down like every evening before. We start the night watches as usual. In our crew that means: about 1830 – 2230 Janos, 2230 – 0230 Leo, 0230 – 0530 Janos, 0530 – 0830 Leo. In the first watch a Cumulonimbus comes in sight. Those clouds are the mightiest clouds that are known in the world. They contain more than 100 million tons of water and are respectfully avoided by ships and planes. Turning winds much higher than 12 Beaufort can be found in and below that cloud. Next to that they can be the cause for a temperature drop of up to 20°C in a few moments. Especially dangerous are upwards winds which can be developed by the Cumulonimbus. Sometimes they are up to 20 kilometers high and look really frightening. In reasons of seamanship we reduce sails and keep sharp lookout for the cloud. After two hours it passes us many miles ahead and we can set up to full sail again and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Watchkeeping consumes energy. Therefore it is pretty important to have enough snacks outside.

Tradewindsailing

In the night the wind is giving way for a typical sunny windless day. We have about one Beaufort from the aft and we try the trade wind sails for the first time. This configuration works very well, we wish to not have forgotten the spinnaker-boom but even without we can sail up to 60 degrees to the wind direction at almost wind speed.

Anchoring in front of Øland

Thanks to the engine that doesn’t want to start we anchor in front of a small harbour on Øland. There is no wind at all and the sea is flat.

Wonderful sailing as the start of the first trip

Where it all started

After a long time of hard work we are finally on the way to start our journey. Sindbad was launched a week ago and is now fully prepared to sail us up to the North.
Planen er klar and the beautiful loneliness of the Northern nature seems calling us this summer. We do not hesitate – not even a moment – to follow the call.
Poorly we couldn’t take Simon, our third hand and brain with us. The trip was planned already a long time ago and we three have been in from the beginning. So it is really sad that we have to start the journey without him.

Last rigg check
Planen er klar (Folketidene 13th June 2020)

First time sailing

Finally the time has come and we are moving forward under sails. After departure and farewell wishes by the local neighbour at 1400 LT our heading is now set by the wind and so we are running to Gedser on the North of the Kadetrinne. Like expected she sails well at five Beaufort and we are sailing with five to six knots.

Heading North-East

First evening at sea

In the evening we prepare Sindbad for the night. After it’s all shipshape we can lean back and enjoy the wonderful sunset. We feel ready for a first night of sailing between Germany, Denmark and Sweden.