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our biggest news ever

Happy Holidays, Thank You & Our Biggest News Ever

Have you had your fill of Holiday Cheer yet? I hope not because we have a raspberry-jam-filled-sugar-cookie-high induced message we would like to share. So grab your warm beverage of choice (we’re having tea latte’s) and click the play button.

For those with low bandwidth or limited internet that didn’t watch the video, we had a tea party in your honor!

It was our way of saying Happy Holidays and thanks so much for being a part of our adventures! Your support, commentary, funny jokes, feedback, sharing, tips, shopping our store, and even those lurking in the corner who’ve never officially said hello yet, we love and appreciate each of you more than we can possibly express.

Keeping up this website and everything associated with it is far more work than we ever let on. Don’t get me wrong we love sharing, but without you and your support we couldn’t keep it going.

So when we say happy holidays, thanks and we hope you have an exciting adventure filled year ahead…we really, really mean it!

 

Our Biggest News Ever

2016 is going to be a BIG year for us. We’re spending the rest of the holidays in the L.A. area with family and most of January we’ll be in the Palm Springs area with more family. Then our year of craziness and uncertainty begins.
We have so much we still want to tell you about our 2015 travels and filling you in on our experience with testing the new systems we’ve had this year. Especially when it comes to things like residential refrigerators, air conditioners and solar/batteries in an RV. But, because our RV is a leased test coach, we’re due to give it back in the spring. So we have a lot of work to do before then and before our next big move.

We’ve hinted around at sailing for quite some time now…and the time has finally come.

We are NOT done RVing

I know some of you are saying nooooo, while others have been waiting over two years for us to finally make the move (yea, we’ve been talking about it for a while now).  We plan to spend around 70% of our time on water while spending the other 30% renting whatever small RV is available to explore by land.

We are currently sail boat shopping!

Oh, and let me tell you, it is just as daunting trying to find the perfect boat as it is trying to find the perfect RV. We’re super early-on in the process and not yet ready to dive into all the details, but here is what we know for now.

  • Catamaran vs Mono – We’ve decided we want a catamaran for a host of reasons, which we will cover at a later date.
  • New vs Used – based on our budget and just good common sense, we’re looking for a used boat.
  • What Size of Boat – We want to find a boat around 35ft for much of the same reason we prefer an RV around or under 30ft. Easier handling and maneuverability.
  • What Brand of Boat – At this moment here are our top faves: Fountaine Pajot MAHE 36, Broadblue 345, Seawind 1000 XL & the Gemini Legacy.

What About the Kitty Cats

Well, they are coming of course! We will be needing some kitty PFD’s but other than that, I think they are going to like the sailing life (or they’ll be not so secretly plotting our demise). But seriously, what cat wouldn’t want to spend hours a day sunning out on the deck with an unlimited supply of fresh fish!?!

Where are we buying?

That is all part of the adventure. We’ve been unplanners in the past but 2016 seems like it could be the most up-in-the-air year yet! There are only a small number of cats made each year from each manufacturer, so in our search we’ve found a few contenders in San Diego, Florida, Turkey, France and even Australia. Yea, that’s a huge search range! I guess we’ll find the best boat we can online then make our way out to see it…and hopefully sail it “home” if necessary.

Ok, thats it. Our big news has been revealed but don’t let that distract from the much bigger message here:

Thank You, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!!!

our biggest news ever

Share what you are most excited about in 2016

If you have some big exciting news or crazy dreams you plan to make a reality, tell us about it in the comments below. Together we can share in the excitement, anticipation and encourage each other to make it all happen!

Wondering what a tea latte is?
It’s a simple treat that is a great alternative to indulgent hot coco or the traditional espresso based latte.
1. Pick your favorite tea that stands up well to milk (chai tea, earl grey or chocolate rooibos are some of my faves).
2. Steep the tea in hot milk (or milk alternative: soy, almond, coconut…) in leiu of the water (typically needs about 10% more time to steep).
3. Add your sweetener of choice (we use honey).
4. Top with a little frothed milk (we use this milk frother).
5. Enjoy!

Hello there! I honestly don’t know what to say, so I am going to tell you a bunch of random facts instead. I'm a fish eating vegetarian who hates spiders and loves snakes. I almost never took vacations growing up. I wanted to be Pippi Longstocking (still do). I misspell about every other word I write and still struggle with grammar. I love splurging on a good high tea (which is really hard to find these days). And whatever you do, don’t tell me I can’t do something, because then I'll HAVE to do it!

Comments (293)

  • Debi Markley

    We are doing the opposite of your dream! We have been living on a 40′ Bluewater for 1 1/2 years, and we have just purchased a 40′ RV to travel the United States. So, we are leaving the water for land for a couple of years. We have loved the water, and we hope to return to it. Look forward to reading all of your great tips for traveling.

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  • Smokin Jim

    Nikki, Jason! Congratulations on your new upcoming adventure. I have been following your RVing for a while now and plan to retire that way soon (God willing). But I have a concern: I know you said your kitties are going with you on the boat. And I’m sure you know what you’re doing…ummm….but I am a great big fat kitty lover myself (lost my Eddie The Beast to cancer a couple of weeks ago) and feel nervous about your two delights being in the high seas. Also the rules of animals being brought into foreign countries.

    All I’m trying to say is I live in Plano, TX (right around the corner from your old stomping grounds) and would be happy to foster your kitties if you decide to do so.

    I wonder though, are is there any such thing as a kitty life preserver?
    Lovingly,

    Smokin Jim.

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  • Carly Ford

    Ah just got to see this, how exciting for you two! We have loved following you (& meeting you at the Pomona RV show a few years ago) and have big plans in 2016 to START our full-time RV adventure, yay! Anyway, was wondering your opinion/experience on how many miles are within a good range on a used Diesel RV? We’re probably looking at older, used ones, say 1999-2006 to start, What’s your advice on miles? and maybe anything else we should look for when buying a used RV?

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  • Hi guys! We have spent the last 4 years living and working on a sailboat! Recently we got big news that have a baby on the way and decided to make a temporary move to the RV lifestyle to visit family during this special time. Funny enough we are doing just the opposite as you two! Just wanted to stop by and show you some love and if you have any questions about the sailing life feel free to contact us! —> http://www.LifeWithLess.us
    ….Looks like we can learn alot from each other 😉

    Peace and Love,
    Ryan and Olivia

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    • Sounds like a plan Olivia. Any chance you’re in FL? We’re heading that way tomorrow.

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  • George McGarry

    Too bad. I am looking at getting one. If I do I will give you all the details. But I do think you but happy with the cat. If I do not get the green line it will be a cat.

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  • George McGarry

    Please look in to the Greenline boats. they are 33 to 48 feet long, but they have a 3′ draft! With being a hybrid and solar powered, they will fit in to what you are looking for. Battery is 46 kwh with 1400 w solar panels.
    http://www.greenlinehybrid.com

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    • We have seen these boats but they’re a little out of our budget!

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  • Jon Brewton

    Hey guys,
    The family and I just started looking at your site as we contemplate moving up from our 34′ TT to a motorhome. SO MANY QUESTIONS, but not right now. Just saw that you are looking to move into sailing, AWESOME idea! As a Florida native and someone that has spent lots of time on the water, I know you are going to love it! Seeing as you are Amazon people I’m sure you’ve heard about Hugh Howey, he’s a self published author who writes some amazing stuff, check out Wool, and has used his success to build a custom catamaran. He’s documented his process as well as life aboard his boat and adventures, sound familiar, on his blog and a book series called Wayfinder. If you haven’t yet you might want to check it out. Anyway thanks for all the info and good luck on the seas!

    http://www.hughhowey.com

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  • Jenna Webb

    We have followed you since you bought your first RV…HGTV…
    I say go for it, you are young, and enjoy every minute…
    We are retiring soon…and have decided to move to Belize, and try something different…we have a home in Florida, (a dream we accomplished) but we want more … Our friends think we are crazy…but I never say (can’t) (I say why not…). we consider it an adventure…
    So we will certainly be following you guys, if you send newsletters like you had for RV-ing…
    New email address below

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  • Richard C.

    What exciting news! I’m one of those “lurkers” first-time-posters, long-time-followers that have been enjoying your exploits for awhile online. Your blog has been instrumental in stirring my desire to go full-time. Even Jason’s “How To” videos make the challenges seem like adventures.

    It’s such a shame you don’t get to keep the RV you were able to design for yourselves. You mentioned your “RV of the Sea” may even include boats sourced in Australia… That got me thinking. Jason, with your “can do” spirit, have you considered taking a few well placed beads of sealant, a bit of over-pressure in the tires, point that Bounder southwest from San Diego and gunning it? You could tell Fleetwood they can reclaim their RV in Australia? Who knows they might just cry “Uncle” and let you keep it? At a minimum, you’ve got another great Jason video!

    Seriously, I wish you both all the best. I look forward to hearing about all your future land, and sea, experiences. In 4.6 years and counting, when I retire to full-timer, I hope to have half as much fun as you two have.

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  • Deborah Kerr

    Just watched your video – absolutely love your adventurous spirits!! Cute video!!

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  • Chris and Nadia Hamilton

    Hey I wanted to follow up with this post from you guys..I know its been a little while since you’ve posted it and shared your exciting plans for sailing around this great big world.

    I recently found a blogsite callled http://www.turftosurf.com Fantastic info there and Tasha and her husband have recently bought a catamaran and begun sailing accross the globe. You can also check out thier Youtube channel – Chase the Story-

    Sorry no fancy drink recipe this time…See you out in the world!

    Chris and Nadia

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  • Allan

    Not sure if you’ve sen this, but here’s a Seawind for sale:
    http://tampa.craigslist.org/pnl/boa/5416928510.html

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  • Rob D

    How exciting guys! My vote is the Gemini Legacy – the master bedroom is nice for the boat that size and it’s got a great kitchen. Electrification is all the rage right now with sailboats for lots of good reasons, maybe that solar experience would be of good use.
    I’m sure you’re pro’s handling trolls but there is something about boat people that seems to make them overly passionate online, brace yourself if you’ve encountered it already! Admired you before, even more now. Go Team Wynn!

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  • Raivyn

    Boat show this weekend in San Diego… catamarans included! 🙂

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  • John S.

    I decided to come back to this blog and check out the comments; glad I did.

    Nikki and Jason, you have some very informative and experienced followers offering many ideas to think about.

    How exciting – in only a few more weeks you’ll be on the water.

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  • Anita Vibbert

    I enjoyed stumbling across your website and read your entire article on the 2011 Monaco Vesta 32 PBS RV. Your writing style, content etc. was delightful ! ! ! and I look forward to more articles of interest as I look around the site. I see you are young – compared to my 62 yrs. ! ! ! – and I am so glad you learned to seek out the life you wish to live and have found ways to afford to do it. Perhaps you would share your email address with me? If you wish to “check me out” you can ask to be a Friend on Facebook…or maybe you can check me out without Friending? I’m not the best at understanding all the facets of Facebook. I’m not a frequent Facebook person (though I do love the Farm Heroes game FAR too much!) but you might enjoy what I share…and maybe you will conclude I’m not a looney-tune type of person! You’ll also see the page I created for my cast iron pig with wings!!! It doesn’t have a lot of followers yet…maybe someday. I just LOVE the artistry of quilts and love sharing pictures of them…Anyway, my wanderlust has led me to consider RV-ing and I enjoyed reading about a part of your lives. I hope you will reply with an email address so we can converse. I won’t send a million emails and pester you, but I’d love to write and not be here in your blog! Good luck with your adventurous life!!! Anita P.S. Recently I passed my FCC exam to be a Ham Radio operator and I am wondering if you happen to have your licenses? If not, I strongly recommend it for you. There are many practical reasons for you to have your licenses but also you will find you would be affiliated with many many nice people worldwide. It reminds me of how my husband and I enjoyed motorcycling…Everywhere we went we interacted with a wonderful group of people and had wonderful adventures!!! I’m sure it’s like that with RV-ing. I guess I’ll close. All the best to you!!!

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  • Risch

    I’m very excited for you two and your next adventure (Marine type); however I first thought your announcement was going to be of the familial type…’ya know!

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  • Annette Blocker

    Excited about your news for 2016! We actually have a 50′ vintage wooden yacht in Los Angeles Harbor (we purchased in 2008 and have just gone out to it for vacations so far). We recently (last year) bought a vintage RV “C” class….sold everything we own and we are about to leave on our adventures. Our plan is to take a nice adventurous trip from the Mississippi Gulf Coast and make our way west to our boat in California via several detours. We have been preparing our RV and ourselves for all of this, thus the reason we have been garnering as much info from you all a we can!
    We are not big planners either so we are not sure if we will live on our boat and take trips on occasion in our RV up and down the west coast or live in the RV and go to the boat for vacation or possibly do something different.
    Your year sounds exciting and we wish you the best! Happy New Year!!!

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  • Jacques

    In case you haven’t been following them, these guys (http://sailing-lavagabonde.com/) should inspire you. Riley bought his boat before he knew how to sail it, and sailed across the Atlantic the same year…
    Happy Trails …er …Sails!

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  • Gary Pichon

    Inside passage, great loop, bahamas, will be fun.. First thing I would do is spend some time talking with Dr. Bob Austin. You can contact him on the CBrat web site. The man is an expert about all things boating. World class sailor with tons of practical experience backed by a detailed technical mind and able to communicate and glad to share. He is a real find. And he is a RVer. Before I spent a dime looking I would contact him and pick his brain.

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  • illya

    Congrats!! you are safer on the ocean than on a highway loaded with trucks in that smart car anyways so this is a wise decision in many ways.All in how you view things. I look forward to seeing some videos of the water. How awesome!!

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  • Hey guys..
    I’m Mitch. An old guy who now has a damn RV now, thanks to you partially…
    Been living in a 1990 30ft Southwind for the past 1.5 yrs. But that’s not why I’m writing…
    My high school gf and I bought a sailboat (A 28′ Piver Trimiran) in like 1972 in Port Clinton, OH. We sailed it up Lake Erie, thru the NY State Barge Canal (the Erie Canal), down the Hudson into the Atlantic, along the IntraCoastal Waterway to FL, the Bahamas and back. We had just reached our 20’s.
    Sold, that boat and bought a 34′ Eldridge-McGinnis yawl, an all wood boat; fixed it up and took it to the Bahamas and back to Annapolis, MD where we sold her.
    20 Years later… we had 3 kids; 2 girls and 1 boy who had his 8th birthday on an island in the Exumas. This time we all smushed into a 37′ Tartan leaving from Buzzards Bay outside of Boston where we lived then.
    Wish we had YouTube then.. could have helped pay for our trips. Instead, we had to pick up low paying jobs to make it.
    Re: Cat vs Mono – I’m now a mono fan. After surfing down 35′ waves in a Tri with only a storm sail trying to pull down our rigging, watching the Speedo stay pegged at 20kts only to back off when a mountain passed under our hulls and listening to the boat cry like a Banshee ready to explode under the stress – I’ve had enough fun in multi-hulls. That one was Hurricane Gilda…
    Hurricane Bob, in 1991, did a bunch of damage to our Tartan 37 while trying to ride that one out in Sippican Harbor, Marion, Mass. But, we made it to the Bahamas and back anyway… almost 2 years later.
    So – I’d suggest a somewhat larger monohull. You may find a Passport or a Christina to your liking.
    After the sailing, I took up flying. Bought a Rockwell Commander airplane which I owned for 18 years. Flew it everywhere.. used it like most people use their car. Gave me a much longer leash. Kept it mainly in the Annapolis, MD area but it’s been to the Bahamas a dozen times, to CA and all over the East Coast, Canada, Nova Scotia and even wanted to fly it to see my relatives in Wales once.
    If I had to choose boat or plane – I’d choose plane. Best thing I ever did in my life; learn to fly. Much more cost effective than a boat, much faster getting to those same places we all want to go.
    Boats are romantic notions where the allure is as beguiling as a skilled painted woman attracting men to their web. Most of us are unable to resist..
    I can’t wait to see how your fare.

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    • Rob

      Mitch I couldn’t agree more: As a former charter captain and American Sailing Association instructor, a mono is the only way to go. I’ve had the pleasure of sailing some big tri’s and cat’s, great fast fun off the wind but docking and manuvuering the things in close quarters, in any breeze is a challenge. I liken it to steering a styrofoam cup. Besides finding an end tie or moorage is very difficult and expensive. Living aboard sounds so romantic for the new sailors but right now during El Nino here in San Diego I am sure glad I am dry in my house with the heat on.

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  • Lance

    Are you going to be changing your web address from gone with the wynns to blowing in the wynns?

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    • Robert Lighton

      I vote for this. Very clever!

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      • Matt B

        Me too. Brilliant.

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  • ken stowell

    I been subscribed to this youtube channel ”
    “Sailing La Vagabonde”
    I feel it is entertaining and informative ! just like your’s 🙂
    check it out

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  • Jacques

    If you want validation that novice sailors can accomplish many things, this book will give you that: The Voyage of the Northern Magic: A Family Odyssey by Diane Stuemer, available on Amazon in hard copy, or for kindle here http://www.amazon.com/Voyage-Northern-Magic-Family-Odyssey-ebook/dp/B00ERTF0UK
    This family sailed around the world in four years with virtually no experience when they left.
    Best of luck to you guys!

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  • Jonathan

    Best of luck in your future travels. Sounds like fun.
    …so… Does that mean the Smart Car is going up for sale? ?

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  • Jon Davis

    A couple other thoughts.

    Don’t count on lots of fish. After World War 2 Jacques Cousteau took his family aboard the boat with plans to live off the ocean. He refers to those years as the lean years. When Tim and I spent 6 months cruising through the Bahamas, we lost about 30 lbs each. Snorkeling for fish is a calorie negative activity. The fish in general are scarce in the waters you will want to be cruising in.

    Might I suggest that you charter a Catamaran for a week and check it out. CYOA in St Thomas has 8 or more Cats to charter. I suspect that with your limited experience they would insist you take a captain with you though perhaps you have a friend with enough experience to go with you that would let you bare boat. There are several companies in the VI and elsewhere charting Cats. Nothing like first hand experience.

    And then charter a monohull.

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    • We do plan to go out with instructors on cats. We’ve been out on Mono’s and a tri before so we’re excited to finally sail open water in a cat…with help of course.

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  • Jon Davis

    Jason and Nikki

    If I might put in my two cents (Being aware that advice is worth what you pay for it and disliking the public nature of this.)

    Two winters ago I was hired to fly to St Thomas to repair two brand new Fountaine Pajot Helia 44. I had to repair inadequate factory construction. When they hung the dinghy on the factory davits the cockpit deck peeled away from the bridge deck. The repair was difficult (read expensive) and in a very inaccessible location. I spent a lot of time crawling around in her bilges during the 2 weeks I needed to repair both boats. I came away unimpressed. A marine surveyor I know says “No one builds boats like the French, and no one else wants to.”

    I confess I am not a multihull fan. They can be fast and with lots of room, but therein lies their failing. To be fast they have to be light. The large production builders design the boats with input from the bean counters to be as light and profitable as possible. The end result is a diminished safety factor. Is it possible to build a multihull that doesn’t compromise safety? Yes, but it requires the use of more expensive materials and more attention to detail. To construct a large interior means small/thinner building materials. Combine this with the inherent and significant stresses imparted to the structure by the multihull platform and rig the odds of structural failure are high. Then the large volume of the boat comes in to play. All that space, all those lockers, the temptation to fill them with all sorts of stuff, and before you know it the boat is floating below her designed water line. There goes light and the extra weight increases the stresses on the hull. Like I say I am not a fan of multihulls. I’m not suggesting that many monohulls are not also poorly built, but generally they have a much higher safety factor. I also find the sea keeping qualities of multihulls to be questionable.

    I emphasis safety because it is an overriding concern to me as a builder. If the boat fails it a failure on my part and perhaps the cause of fatalities’ to the occupants’. Whatever you decide to purchase, spend the money to have a very competent surveyor give the boat a very though inspection.

    As to the cats. I went cruising with two cats and they loved it. Two things to do for their safety. We installed netting from the toerail to the lower lifeline. “Nobody” got washed overboard on our watch. The second thing seems rude but should be done never the less. When you first get the boat, in harbor, toss the cat overboard. They need to learn how to get back aboard. Many of the cruisers I met while cruising would hang a towel overboard which would help the cat back aboard. It works. Jomomma was chasing a dragonfly down the deck and ran right off the stern. We heard this and went running up from below to find she had already gotten back on deck.

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  • Allan Kirch

    Nikki and Jason,
    Your RV web site has been an incredible source of information, inspiration and entertainment. It has saved me countless hours of researching and made the dream of full time RVing a realistic goal.
    I am currently flipping back and forth between a boat and an RV. In the marine realm, I am also considering a catamaran approximately the same size mentioned in your blog. As a very small form of repayment, I’d like to pass along some web sites that have proven useful to me in searching for a boat. It may all be old news to you, but maybe there’ll be something useful.
    Owners’ web sites of the various boat manufacturers contain a treasure trove of wisdom and experience for their particular boat. The following sites have some great reviews and comparisons of different boats.
    http://www.boatus.com/boatreviews/sail-boats.asp
    http://www.cruisingworld.com/sailboats/cruising-world-boat-review-index
    In addition to boat reviews, Practical Sailor has an extensive archive of testing and reviews of sailing paraphernalia. Kind of like the Consumer Reports of the sailing world. Some information is available for free, but it’s definitely worth giving it a try for a least a one year subscription to get the full articles.
    http://www.practical-sailor.com/
    These are some of the more popular online sites for finding sailboats. Most of them allow you to set up an email notification when a boat that matches your search criteria is listed.
    http://www.yachtworld.com/
    http://www.sailboatlistings.com/
    http://www.boats.com/
    http://www.boattrader.com/
    The internet is a great source of information. But for those times when you can’t get a wifi signal, the following books contain a wealth of useful and practical information from a recognized expert.
    Nigel Calder’s Cruising Handbook – Nigel Calder
    http://www.amazon.com/Nigel-Calders-Cruising-Handbook-Compendium/dp/0071350993/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1451579333&sr=1-3&keywords=nigel+calder
    Boat Owner’s Mechanical and Electrical Manual – Nigel Calder
    http://www.amazon.com/Boatowners-Mechanical-Electrical-Manual-Calder/dp/0071790330/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1451579333&sr=1-1&keywords=nigel+calder
    For U.S. coastal sailing destinations, the Great Loop has a little bit of everything; rivers, lakes, fresh and salt water:
    http://www.captainjohn.org/

    Just in case you need some extra motivation to cruise the South Pacific, check out the following web site. They don’t have the depth of practical information like your site, but they sure can make it look fun!
    https://www.youtube.com/user/briantrautman
    http://svdelos.com/
    If your plans extend to world cruising, there is no better source of information than Jimmy Cornell. His book is considered the bible for plying the world’s oceans:
    http://www.amazon.com/World-Cruising-Routes-Sailing-Oceans-ebook/dp/B00JVAGDQ0/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1451853560&sr=1-1&keywords=world+cruising+routes

    The accompanying web site is at:
    http://www.noonsite.com/

    Since you’re in Southern California, if you need sailing instruction or just want to charter a boat for a trip there is a sailing club in Dana Point. Their dues are very reasonable, the members are friendly, and they have activities and a wide selection of boats to charter. This is their web site:
    http://www.aventurasailing.com/

    Catalina Island makes great destination in Southern California for a multi-day sail:
    http://www.captaincurran.com/2014/11/sailing-to-catalina-island-distance-and.html

    There you have it. It’s a list of a few bits of information that hopefully contain a new gem or two for you. As always, I’ll continue to follow you via your web site. Contact me directly if you’d like more details.

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  • Rodney

    Wow, what an adventure! I was a latecomer to your RV travels and greatly enjoyed your adventures over the past year. I especially enjoyed your candid reviews, your opinion on many things RV and the travel tips. I am close to an early retirement so I cannot wait to get out there too. A good friend of mine did the sailboat thing for five years but stayed along the coasts- amazing man taught me to sail my catamaran (when I had it). It will certainly be a new challenge. Jason, I also went the route of the Sony A6000 and dumped my Nikon. What lenses do you suggest. What about image edit software?

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  • cindy

    See you on the Sea!!!

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  • Rod Reichardt

    Good luck guys on your continued following of your dream. While I was a bit surprised once I thought about your “big announcement” the more sense it made. I know you were never going to be able to drive to Hawaii after all. I have to admit that I started doing a little boat shopping myself. Prices aren’t as bad as I was expecting. I would love to Iive on the water. My wife probably not so much. But she does love Hawaii. Maybe I can pitch it to her that way….

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  • Nikki and Jason,
    I say to hell with the nay sayers. Dump the Class A and sail to your hearts content. We’ll be following every nautical mile of your journey. If for nothing else, just to see how the cats handle it. But I do have a question that needs answering. It has to do with something I heard you mention on you Northern Lights adventure. What in gods name is a “Bourbon Margarita”?

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  • George Stankiewica

    Are you going to do the same type of videos while you sail the high seas and post them on your site? Will you be doing how too’s with the sailboat? You two are natural’s when you do your videos. You do a better job than the Professional TV personalities. Keep up the good work and keep on searching for that Eden you are looking for.

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  • My wife and I felt the same 35 years ago, sailing the seas seemed so romantic and adventurous, as an experienced sailor, we had made several transatlantic sailings over the past 35 years and had many close encounters being stranded out in the high seas when our mast broke or taking on water after impact with floating debris our final decision to reconsider sailing came when we lost all contact with our sailing friends only to find they along with other sailing couples became pray to piracy and never heard from again, the romance of sailing the high seas for us is gone, we value our lives too much to fall victim to the seas or pirates.

    Another dilemma was the isolation for weeks and constant swells made my wife sick for days at sea and eventually the best decision was to sell it and buy an RV, we will never go back to sailing after 35 years. I suggest taking a re-positioning cruise or cruise/ freighter instead on https://www.freightercruises.com/voyages.php#anchor_menue and continue your RV adventures upon arrival at your destination or try a week long sailing charter (use sail charter brokers) before investing in a sailboat, the day we sold ours was the best day of our lives and we as still alive as a result.

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  • Sonny and Sandy Hale

    It was great to meet ya’ll at Portage Glacier last Summer. Good luck on your adventures. Thanks for sharing. We’ll be watching!

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  • Kay

    Would love to say hi while you are in Palm Springs keep us posted.

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  • John Lonergan

    Hello. I just wanted to thank the two of you for the very informative blogs and videos. We have never RV’d before and plan to do so in a few years. I had no idea all that was involved with RVs and it all seems complex and a bit daunting but FUN. Please don’t take down your previous blogs and videos as I am continuing to view them and some I go back and view again. They really are hugely helpful.

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  • If you sail in Europe, you should rent a Tonke camper!

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  • Jim Wedo

    Happy New Year Nikki and Jason,

    I went to my first R.V. show ever here in Minnesota/Wisconsin area about 10 months ago and then found your site one night and have been following you ever since and your trip to Alaska was what really got me hooked and wanting to learn more about R.V.s in general. I have camped,hiked and kayaked for years but just this year I ve started to think about the R.V. world and your video s have been great from putting in your toilet to your solar and all of your trips you guys do a super job.When I was 20 I backpacked for 5 months through Europe and then when I was 35 I backpacked for 2 months in Alaska and now I know I still enjoying hiking and thought how to see more and enjoy it so the R.V. idea was born..I look forward to follow you both on the high seas and the adventures that follow.I am excited for you and who knows maybe one day we will meet but until that day comes I wish you all the best and thanks again for all you have done for the R.V. world to help those of us that are brand new and just starting to get ideas…Jim

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  • Kathy

    So excited for you and I look forward to following along on your sea adventures!

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  • Mike

    To many of us allow fear to dictate our lives. Your new plans are inspiring and a great adventure awaits. I look forward to sharing it. Happy new year!

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  • R R F

    The best of life to you in your upcoming adventure, we will lbe praying for your safety and safe return to wil, if you happen to be in the Memphis area, email us and stop in. The best to you. Bob & Lanelle F

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  • mary

    It will be a great adventure and I am excited for you! A little harder to visit which I am sad about.

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  • Hale and Ruth

    I sure have enjoyed following your adventures. Good luck in your future adventures on a boat. I retired in November, sold our house to my son and hit the road in our motorcoach. Some people thought we were crazy, some didn’t… We love it!. Best advice is go with your gut and don’t look back. Suggestion for a name for your boat… “Cirrhosis of the River”

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  • Doris

    I’m sure you’ll love sailing & the water. Keep a wrist pressure nausea relief /treatment bracelet handy for short while till you get your sea legs. Consider taking a boating class from coast guard auxiliary or we did one in Michigan called USPS , United States sail & power squadron. For us it really helped us with plotting , navigation & celestal navigation. We had a cardinal rule but we did our boating around the kitten ( Michign)….hubby mounted a bell in the bridge and when the seas were rough enough to consistently ring the bell we found a harbor. I’m sure you know a functioning EMergency Beacon aboard dingy. I sure hope y’all can keep up your website . Enjoy

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  • Lloyd ODell

    Happy New Year! Exciting news for the upcoming year. Did you guys see this? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJCGiVXRtbc

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  • Willy

    I want to wish you both (hard working, hard traveling/partying power couple) a very HAPPY NEW Year, and good luck in all you do.. All the best….

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  • Chuck and Terri Hill

    Hey Guys- We have enjoyed following your post over the past year + as we are looking forward to RV traveling/living in the near future. We have learned so much from your many videos etc. It is so interesting that you are heading out to sea as that is the lifestyle we lived for 6 years aboard a 41 ft. catamaran. We traveled over 18,000 nautical miles and visited 27 countries during that time. What a blessing. Reality called us back to the states and back to work for the past 5 years and we are getting antsy to get moving again. Our earlier adventures started from Charleston, SC and circumnavigated the Caribbean. I have to say our favorite locations were found in the Western Caribbean before returning to the U.S. in 2010. While I am sure you have many wanting to lead/guide you in your new ventures, I want to offer our contact information so to provide our “best of” advice as well. We would welcome the opportunity to exchange your/our information and knowledge of everything from the purchase of the best suited vessel for the location/s planned to travel to the comparison to the sailing vs. the RV life.

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  • Hi You Two,
    I guess you wont have to be coming east to take that CAT trip to the Vineyard after all 🙂 Enjoy your adventures!!
    Scott & Jeanne McLeod
    OurGypsyLife.com

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  • Eric Olsen

    I remember you mentioning sailing some time ago, and wondered if you changed your minds.

    A couple of other catamarans you might consider are PDQ and Catalac. Both solidly built. Maybe also Prout. These are out of production but still available on the used market. You may have to change your travel style a bit when you go from RV to catamaran (fewer toys). Catamarans don’t do as well as a mono-hull when heavily loaded because they do best when they can skim along on top of the water. Mono-hulls can carry a lot more weight because they sit down in the water and plow through it instead of trying to ride on top. Because catamarans skim along on top they are typically faster than mono-hulls, but also don’t sail into the wind as well as a mono-hull. So for long passages you will want to try to sail with the wind (at least not on your nose) whenever possible in a cat.

    The Caribbean is a great place for getting familiar with sailing on a cat. The shallow draft of the cat can get into a lot of places a deep draft mono-hull can’t. And there are a lot of one day hops you can take from island to island. You can avoid hurricanes for the most part by planning to be either far enough South or North during Hurricane season.

    Another adventure you might consider for a shake down cruise is the Great Loop. From Florida you can travel up the inland passage along the East coast to the Hudson River, up the Hudson to the Great Lakes, from the Great Lakes to the Mississippi down to the Gulf of Mexico and from there back to Florida. This is typically a year long trip – Southern part in winter, Northern part in summer. The advantage of this trip is you are never far from a marina or marine supply store as you learn more about what you really want and need on your boat. There are some canals to negotiate getting into and out of the Great Lakes, but as long as you aren’t getting too big of a boat no problem.

    Europe has a wonderful canal system between the North Sea and the Med for smaller boats like the size you’re considering. If you are thinking about these or the Great Loop or exploring along coast lines and up rivers with bridges a tabernacle mounted mast can be an advantage. Not many sail boats built with this arrangement, but they can be converted. Otherwise you may have to contend with getting the mast pulled and re-stepped in a marina each time you want to pass under a bridge.

    You have already been to Alaska by RV, but another great sailing adventure is from Puget Sound to Alaska and back. Another reasonably good shake down trip. Supplies and help along the way. It is mostly all protected water with lots of islands, inlets and bays to explore.

    Transit of the Panama Canal can be an interesting experience, but kind of a pain with a small boat due to the wait for permission and pilot availability.

    Enjoy your new adventure. Look forward to hearing more about how it unfolds.

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  • Steve

    We sailed for years…..and RVed. It sounds romantic to sail the world but once you’re far out on the blue water it is long boring watches, when a storm comes up it is dangerous for a small craft and help is far away. Now flying to a nice location on the Med and renting a sailboat is good. Be safe you two, our family enjoys your videos and don’t want to send out the search and rescue planes…..

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    • Steve

      Have fun be safe and post your great videos of your travels.

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  • Erik

    Have fun boating (just as long as you don’t both plan to live on that one paddleboard…..)

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  • Dan Farrell

    I hope you have some sailing experience. Blue water sailing is not for amateurs.

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  • laurence zambanini

    I know that you guys have gone everywhere. I know you have seen nearly every type of region this country has to offer. I must admit island hoping is a very romantic and beautiful concept. However my wife and I love you guys. As an old navy man I can tell you, that romantic mistress, the sea, can be a real demon. Please do your due diligence. The weather has been changing and more violent It can be difficult to get out of its way at 60 mph, let alone 8 knots. The piracy increasing. O.K what a negative nilly I sound like. Embrace life be adventurous, just please be safe and wise. llz

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  • Great news guys! Also we are heading to the Salton Sea on January 8, 9, 10…when are you going to be there, we would love to honk and wave…until then, travel safe and enjoyed all your videos last year…

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  • Oh to grand adventures! My dad and his best friend, Ted, spent a year or so as Captain and First Mate of Ted’s sailboat and then through series of events both ended up sailing to St Croix where they both stayed to get married and raise families (me, included) Bermuda, Cuba, the BVI the USVI, the Leeward and Windward islands were all part of their sailing days. Have a wonderful time and if you need any BVI/USVI leads let me know. My heart, and lots of sailing friends are still there.

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    • Oh gosh I hadn’t read the other comments first. My dad did this in 1947. I cannot count the number of friends I have who still do it and a number who live in the islands now who went there originally on a sailboat. Pfffft to the naysayers. My sister-in-law’s sister lives on board a boat with her husband and they sail out of FL, including to Cuba some months ago. All I can say is take every moment you can and live it to the fullest!
      Which I think you both do!!

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    • Also, the late Dick Newick, one of the premier designers of multi-hull sailboats, lived and worked on St Croix (STX) for many years. You’ll see many of his designs there. If you are serious about a cat you might want to look at http://www.goldcoastyachts.com/about.htm and see what is available. You could even fly to STX and get one 🙂

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  • DWDinAtlanta

    OMG!!! We are just getting started with RVing. My husband retired last year but I can’t get him to leave the grandbaby!!! Our grandson is 18 months and a ball of JOY! We are awaiting a granddaughter in mid-Feb, If he falls as hard for her, we’ll never get out of here. LOL

    My godparents (great Aunt & Uncle) lived on a houseboat in Miami when I was a kid. We spent a couple weeks during the summer down there. My uncle was a boat builder and had a boat repair & upholstery shop in the cove where they lived. I also had a friend that did full time sailboating for about 6 yrs. Her husband was a navy guy and as soon as their kids left home, hit the water. They sailed up & down the east coast, spending time in many ports along the way and winters in the Caribbean. She loved it, but being a scrapbooker, didn’t have a lot of space to store supplies or work. They settled in Florida about 8 yrs ago and bought a house.

    Not sure I would be brave enough to go the boating route. I love to cruise, but leave the driving and work to the captain & crew. LOL I’ll miss the RV posts, but will look forward to your adventures. Good Luck and Happy New Year!!!

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  • Greg Dupuich and Lynn Wilton

    Hi you two, I (with a friend ) bought a 34′ pdq power cat a few years ago with the purpose of doing the great loop. took us 3 or 4 years 3 weeks at a leg.. we each had some boating experience with 18′ ski boats but thats it.. we learned quickly.. only went aground 4 or 5 times.. Its trickier than you think.. I’m a long time rver in fact we were up in alaska last summer too. but the boat trip was most interesting in the great lakes and small canals of canada.. every sail boat was under engine power on the loop.. sail boats need lots of t l c too plus you must step the mast to get under some bridges .. anyway if you have questions about boat ownership juxtaposed with rving just ask, we’re from the bay area (nor cal) and heading to arizona to golf and hike the grand canyon in 3 weeks.. boat passagemaking is cool but takes lots of planning and commitment from both of you..

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  • Nic

    Yay, your comments are showing! After reading the comments, whether they be positive or downers, it is apparent that you two are well loved. You got this!

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  • Matt B

    Awesome! The catamaran is a brilliant choice (over a mono) – their shallow drafts open up anchorages and areas that deep-keeled monohulls simply can’t get into (like the Exhumas, for instance). The FP Mahe and the Seawind both have good pedigrees. If you’re looking for YouTube sailing videos for inspiration, check out the following channels: SV Delos, Sailing La Vagabonde, Sailing Uma, Sail Life, Drake Paragon, Chase the Story, Trio Travels, Sailing Vessel Prism, Monday Never and Follow The Boat. All the best with your transition from a landlubber to a shellback – I’ll be following your progress with interest! ?

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  • Chad

    Happy Holidays!

    Wow, starting sailing is exciting news! My wife and I wondered if you guys had somehow peaked at our Life Dreams list? We are just starting our full-time RV adventure and look forward to buying a blue water cat in the future. I will be paying even closer attention to the blog now that you are on the sailing path.

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  • James & Tracy

    And Merry Christmas to the Wynns! If you are looking at yachts in Australia, let its know and we will make sure to catch up.

    We are bare-boating in the Whitsundays in the next couple of weeks.

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  • Sam Nash

    Seasons greetings Jason and Nikki. As the comments have reappeared and my wife and I have read them all, we would just like to say, that if you read between the lines most of the naysayers seem genuinely concerned for your well being. Obviously your announcement was without much detail, but as a very bright couple I know you will do it by the book. When we started sailing 30 years ago we took advice from everybody we met and did all the seamanship, navigation,radio, safety courses etc, yet our first overnight sail scared the living daylights out of us. We now trust the autopilot but still put safety above all else. Best wishes on your next adventure. Sam and Gill.

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  • John S.

    A quick follow-up: This looks like it will be your most-commented on blog. However some of the posts are bordering on, ah, ‘excessive’ in the fear and doom department.

    I think that we ALL wish you well and hope you have a fun and safe time. For those that don’t understand: the dangers of boating can be addressed.

    I’ve had people (friends actually) discourage me from taking on the RV life style for the same safety/security reasons they said not to ride my motorcycle in Mexico. (And they would probably tell me about pirates if I said I was going sailing for a few years.)

    Yes, it’s true that you can’t control the weather or the water; but you can be prepared. And reading your replies it would seem to me that you already know that:
    1. Your boat needs certain safety equipment, and
    2. A well trained crew is #1 on the checklist.

    It would seem like you are planning this adventure with MUCH more time and effort than, say, an RV road trip to Chicago. And good for you – that’s the only safe way.

    John

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  • Bill Root

    Check out the BoatGalley.com it has some helpful stuff almost every time I read it. Also, I would buy Chapman Piloting and Seamanship and start reading it. If you can’t tell, I am a little worried about you guys taking off on the ocean…it is a fierce place with lots and lots of obstacles to overcome…I hope you take my advice and spend some time in the Caribbean to work on seamanship… St Thomas where the life is easy and the sailing is awesome….and the best part…you are still in the USA..!

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  • Forgot to mention – we have dock space should you need something short term behind our home in Cocoa Beach, FL.

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  • Hey Guys!
    We have been boaters since before we were RVers, so if you need any advice, guidance, etc, don’t hesitate to reach out!

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    • Thanks guys, we’ll be pulling in all kinds of favors from fellow travelers so don’t be surprised when we reach out for help 🙂

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  • John S.

    Wow. Exciting news.

    Congratulations, I know you have made mention of transitioning from road warriors to sailors over the past year (or two) so regular followers will be pleased that you have made the decision public.

    If you talk to people who live near tidal water you will find a lot about boats and boating. I could give you pages of advice and suggestions but that would be wrong as I don’t know your sailing background. But, I don’t think that you are old sea dogs so just in case nobody has mentioned it yet here are three thoughts:

    1. You say you are looking at a catamaran. There are several advantages for a multi-hull vessel but there are also reasons why mono-hull watercraft outnumber multi-hull by ten thousand to one. I would very strongly suggest you charter BOTH types for at least a week before you purchase. You will learn how small a 36′ boat really is. Especially a 36′ cat.

    2. Has your on-line research included some sailing-themed magazines? One of the best is Pacific Yachting (http://www.pacificyachting.com/).

    3. There are many great sailing/cruising destinations. But before you tackle an open ocean it would be very wise to gain experience in both the Caribbean and the Pacific North West, two of the great sailing areas for North America.

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    • Thanks John, there’s no doubt we have a lot to learn and we’re in no rush.

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  • Brian Devitte

    Nikki /Jason
    Did you know that in order to sail a cat/mono you need to have a power squadron certificate Here i s link
    https://www.usps.org/ so you can read up on it
    Also have you hear what people say about boats ? that they are a water pit that you pump money in to like every thing else . If I had the money and was your age I would do the same thing as you SO GO FOR IT
    I wish you all the luck and best wishes in the new year

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  • Shannon

    So excited for you guys! Happy New Year! Hope to see you guys before you go sailing off into the deep blue sea – Miss ya! Xoxox

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  • Dennis

    interesting, can’t see comments unless I leave one

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  • Ron Manning

    What does it mean when I’m both happy and sad? Have y’all figured out how you’ll be entertaining us with
    youtube videos while at sea? I think thats why I’m sad. I need videos regularly! A friend of mine rents a cat with
    his sailing buddys and they bounce around the Virgin Islands for a couple of weeks. Sounds like a dream when you
    hear him describing their trips. Best of Luck to you the both of ya! Looking forward to phase two of the adventure…

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    • Ron Manning

      I’m not sure this fits within the catamaran scope, but I’d love to see y’all make the “grand loop” up through the US and out into the Atlantic. I remember reading about this in yachting magazine a few years back. Sounded Awesome!

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  • Hi guys!
    I’m a reformed RVer, lifelong sailor and boater who has been full-time liveaboard for ten years. I’d love to pass along some thoughts about cruising and living aboard. Feel free to contact me if you are interested.
    Happy New Year and Best Regards!

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  • Richard

    sailing is awesome and your correct in a rv on water. I had the pleasure of coronership of a 45 foot racing sloop, which also did coastal cruseing. best luck on your ship and look forward to your 2016 adventures

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  • Lynn

    Good luck!

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  • Mark Kincaid

    Ok, I bought a 36′ sail boat and was going to sail around the world. I lived in Long Beach, CA. I got the boat outfitted for a long journey. Then I thought, “hey, wouldn’t it be great to do a couple of night sails to Catalina” since half the time you are sailing at night. Day and night, night and day you sail. I made two night sails to Catalina in smooth seas and light wind and realized that you need to be very hearty, very very hearty if you are really going to become a sailor. And brave and survival smart and daring. I realized that I was really none of those so I sold the boat. Unlike RVing where you can pull over to the side and wait for assistance, sailing is just you and the sea. There is no “pulling over” or Calvary bugling a rescue. When you are in the chit you are in the chit and your life can depend on your next decision or series of decisions. As a trial lawyer, I think I’m a fair judge of people and I don’t really see either of you as “sailors.” Anyway, best of luck in your new adventure.

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    • One of our favorite things to do is prove people wrong, we don’t know what the future will bring but we’ll keep sailing as long as we are loving it.

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  • Anne p

    Happy new year from one of your otherwise silent readers! Looking forward to hear of your water adventures. Though we’ve owned mono hulls, we have especially liked catamarans for longer trips.

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    • Thanks for saying hello, we’re very excited about our new adventures.

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  • Wesley Trull

    Congrats on your sailing dream. I spent 30 years pulling people out of the water, USCG. Please don’t skimp on the safety gear. Minimum: Survival raft with ballast, 406 EPIRB, food, water, SAT Comms, backup comms, float plan (ALWAYS), and survival suits with signaling devices on them. Email me if you have questions…enjoy!

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    • Wesley,
      Thank you so much! Some people are trying to be nice but ultimately try scaring us away from the water, but it’s comments like these that actually help us plan. I’m starting a list of safety gear right now.

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  • Margie Daniels

    Grew up all summer on a 35 Morgan mono hull. Miss it soon much. Please tell me you have sailed before. It can be so wonderful as well as dangerous. My brother ferries boats for the wealthy just for fun, (he owns his own company ) but he has some scary stories. Please be safe.

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  • Allie

    Is it just my computer or are comments hidden on this post? Was curious to see feedback on the boat, etc, but all I see is “66 Comments” with a small blank area below it?

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    • Allie

      Weird, the comments showed up after I commented?

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  • joe

    On another blog I follow they have a sailboat for sale
    their site is called zero to cruising. its a catamaran.

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  • JP

    When we decided to do the full-time RV gig I tried to talk the DW away from an RV and onto a houseboat instead. Something like a Gibson 50′ that can handle most U.S. waterways and has the same square footage and price range as a typical RV. “At least,” she replied, “RVs don’t sink.” So an RV it is. That said, I hope you guys have a great time, and please remember that boats and holes don’t do well together.

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  • Barbara & JC Root

    Hi, I’ve been reading your blog occasionally for a couple years. We are empty nesters in Huntington Beach, CA. We just purchased a used Laze Daze in October. My husband is still working 12 hour days but will retire in one year! We can’t wait to start our adventure. Your blog is great. My only info is from the internet. We are VERY green as in we have NO RV experience. My husband is taking a vacation January 16th-23rd. We are going to Desert Hot Springs. After reading your blog about Sam’s we are going to check it out. This will be out first ever trip!

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    • Wooo Hooo! Have fun out there. We’ll be in the same general area so keep an eye out for our Smart Car driving around town 🙂

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  • Super excited for you for this next stage of your travel plans! Can’t wait to see what you buy and how it all works out. This is gonna rock!

    Nina

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  • John Puccetti

    Wow! Sailboat you are in for a whole new learning curve. And a lot more dangerous. A great test of a marriage. Good luck!

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  • Robert Lighton

    Here’s some info on new Cat’s. The Euro is way down….
    http://catamaranguru.com/brokerage/catamaran-reviews/877-40ft-catamaran-models-comparisons

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  • Kent Albertson

    I look forward to following your boating adventures! You have helped my RVing adventures and so I will let you find the pitfalls of boating for me as well. Cheers!

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  • Jeff Atkinson

    Good luck I think you should stick to the RV. 35ft does not seem big enough for the open ocean!!! I would never do it. We just bought our 35ft Georgetown and are hitting the road in June, we were hoping to run into you two on the road some where.

    Best of luck to you and please stay safe!!

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  • mike duchene

    good luck

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  • Don Thompson

    Thanks for the wonderful posts in the past, and whatever is coming in the future.

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  • Steve and Robin Barnes

    just saw your sailing post on line. Please don’t take this sailing adventure lightly. Sailing the open blue water is as dangerous as it is exciting. I have been sailing for 40 years and never take it for granted.If something breaks you can’t just pull over and call someone unless it is the coast guard and it’s a mayday.First BOTH of you get your captain’s license then buy a boat. It is not a game out there each of your lives is in each others hand. Not like driving a bus.
    Enjoy

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  • Joerg

    As an experienced cat-sailor and RV’r I would recommend buying a 2nd hand Fountain Pajot Orana 44 – owners version.
    Why?
    Space for living, hosting part time guests & family, sailing characteristic and seaworthness, space for generator/watermaker, tank capacity, solar panels & wind generator…

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  • Curt

    My wife and I just got our captains licenses in the BVI’s on a 54 monohull. We also spent 5 days on a 48 ft Moorings 4800 Catamaran. Go with the cat….but the BVI’s have easy sailing. In open water, with heavy seas, a monohull will perform better. If you don’t have much sailing experience, I suggest the American Sailing Association courses 101, 103 and 104. There are some online options (NauticEd…), but they doesn’t compare with “on the water time”. Good Luck! Keep the water below you and the sky above you. Curt and Liz Curtis

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    • Thanks for the tips Curt, we’re planning to get as much time with an instructor as possible!

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  • Hector Campos

    Hey there Wynn’s! First of all I want to tell you two how much I have enjoyed your videos and blog. You have gotten to the point in describing and/or showing your adventures to make many of us feel like we are along for the ride. Great Job! I look forward to seeing what the new year brings with your sailing adventures. A while back I read an e-book titled “Bumfuzzle” by Patrick Schulte. I immediately thought of this young couples story to give up jobs, home, and personal possessions to go sailing around the world. Very similar to your initial story of going RVing across the great U.S.A. and parts of Canada. A Very Happy New Year of Adventures to the both of you. Good Luck and God Bless!

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  • Aase Bryan

    I am totally impressed with your way if life. My husband and I love to travel but we have done it a few weeks at a time when our kids were growing up and now that we are retired we do stints of 3-4 months at a time eccept the year we did North America where we did 38 of the states and all 10 provinces. Had a great time and now we only have 6 more states to do to have covered them all.
    We have friends that have done some extensive sailing and I am a little worried about you going any big distance out in the ocean in a 30′ boat. There are some big winds out there and 30′ is NOT a big boat. I enjoy reading about your adventures. A neighbor of ours sailed their 55′ single hulled boat for 5 years. They had built it to travel long distances and could make their own water and were very self sufficient. They had a great time. They are now close to 80 and are actually trying to sell it. I am sure they could tell you a ton of stories. We had a small sailboat and did some sailing with the friends we travelled North America with. Had a great time. Rented a 42′ boat and sailed in between the islands off Vancouver, BC. A big wind came up and I would not have wanted to be in a smaller boat.
    Wishing you a Happy New Year and lots more great traveling.
    Aase

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    • Thanks for sharing the stories Aase, we’ll definitely be starting with simple sails before going way out.

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  • Steve Cordis

    And a warm Seasons Greetings to you guys too!
    Although I’m slower than slow, my house will be put on the market within the month. My truck camper is ready to go, but It’s really, really hard getting rid of all my “STUFF”. But, if you want to be a full timer, it’s a necessity if you’re not wealthy enough to put it all into storage.
    How exciting to make the decision to continue your wanderlust on the water. I’ve also thought of it but I have too much respect for the high seas to put my life on the line just for excitement. To help put that into perspective, I also don’t consider downhill skiing and mega roller coasters as fun either.
    As all new RV’ers should do, renting an RV for a few months to see if it’s their cup of tea, I would think the same would apply to “buying” a boat. It’s a big commitment, kinda like getting married. (snicker) So, my humble advice to you in buying a boat is: Try before you Buy! And if you plan on sailing the ocean blue, you’d better make sure you’re a damn good sailor too. Just say’n Everyone has their comfort zones, mine is not at the bottom of the ocean.
    Ironically, my whole professional life was centered around water in one way or another. I worked in the General Engineering construction of water infrastructure; pipelines, treatment facilities and you name anything involved with water. But, I have my limits when it comes to living on the water. Enough said about me. If it’s in your blood, I understand. Go for it! I do ‘my’ risk taking in other areas. 🙂
    To change the subject, I’m really thinking how the weather may impact my journey in my camper (little RV) as I make my way from California to Florida through the Southern states. As weather impacts everything we do as travelers, a future topic that you may address in your blog could be when and where to be in North America to avoid life threatening weather events. As in hurricanes, tornadoes and snow. Everything I have, as with you too, is wrapped up in my rig. A big wind would blow me right over. End of trip! (this could apply to boat travel too)
    Enough worrying. However, I like to think I evaluate my risk taking evenly without being a total wussy worrywart.
    I hope you guys have another adventurous New Year!
    Happy Trails (wakes)
    Steve C

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  • Steve Kass

    Did the sail boat thing many years ago when we were younger (married 41 years). Now we are getting ready to go the RV route. Jason, be sure to take Sailing classes (class room, not on the water), lots to know especially if you are going blue water. How will you get your internet and cell phone on the sea? (we didn’t have either in my day).
    Best of luck, looking forward to your blogs and videos.

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  • Jim

    Nicki look up bumfuzzle.com I have been following them for 7 + years.
    they sailed around the world and had no experience sailing. they are now in a 60’s doge motorhome in Mexico.
    they info including cost. very good read
    Jim
    La Penita RV park la penita Mexico

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    • We know the Bum crew very well and we’ve had the opportunity to hang a few times over the years when our paths crossed. They have been very helpful in our new adventure.

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  • T C Spencer

    Website https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/
    map is still showing Bakersfield CA.

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    • Yea, when we don’t have cell service it won’t update. We filmed this just outside of LA in the mountains!

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  • David Stone

    Hey guys, I am so excited for your future adventures! I am an ex-boater and though I had power boats I have a few comments on your excellent choices for your first sail boat. Thought all old fit the bill.

    The Gemini would be my first choice since it has a solid foredeck – much easier to maneuver in unsettled seas as well as adding storage capacity in deck lockers. There is a modified bow sprit that is helpful when dropping and raising the anchor. Lots of interior volume with a nice owners cabin forward, true galley kithchen and the second cabin for guests or storage. The hard top and steering station give very good visibility and protection as well as easy access to the main cabin.

    My second choice would be the FP. They have been making catamarans a very long time and the Mahe was a successful model.

    Best of luck!

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  • Gerry Brentnall

    If you are going to be in the Palm Springs/Salton Sea area, you might want to consider Borrego Springs, The Slabs and Quartzsite. At Borrego Springs a guy has built big statues all over the desert. They are interesting. “The Slabs” (google it) is on the other side of the Salton Sea. It is, to say the least, interesting and not someplace to stay long term. My wife hated it – I was fascinated. And Quartzsite, in the last half of January, for the big campout and RV show – thousands of RV’s dry camping in the desert. We go every year and have a ball. Drop a note if you want more details although Google usually has most of it.

    Happy new year.

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  • Craig S

    You need to go where you heart tells you to go and it’s long been on your radar to change the RV lifestyle to a sailing lifestyle and you need to do that! I will, of course, miss your RV blogging but I look forward to reading your sailing blogs :).

    I’m sure you have tried hard to figure out what new content to come up with in your RV travels and it must be difficult after all these years, but there is the undeniable fact that there are only so many RV topics you can cover before you start repeating yourself.

    There are great adventures to be had in the ocean, go have them!

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    • There is so much to share about RVing still, but our hearts have been set on hitting the water for quite sometime now. Like you said, gotta follow our hearts.

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  • Erin

    You might want to consider sailing along a coast for a while before crossing an ocean, especially if you are new to both boat & sailing. You will need to not only equip your boat for any emergency (flares, inflatable life raft, etc.), but also equip yourselves. That means practicing man overboard drills, getting first aid training, etc. I’ve known a number of seasoned sailors who made small mistakes that became huge once out on the water. Though you don’t plan to go overboard, it can happen quickly (especially on rough seas, if you are accidentally hit on the head with boom, etc.). You have to make sure the one left on board can handle both boat & rescue. And if you are in the middle of the ocean, and one of you gets injured, help might not come quickly. I don’t mean to sound like Debbie Downer, but you have to be super prepared for crossing any body of water. Conditions can change in an instant. Sailing coastlines would give you the chance to build your confidence, practice and get used to the boat. And if you purchase one overseas, you can always hire someone with experience to deliver it for you. Good luck!

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    • We do plan to coastal cruise and head down to some of the more forgiving islands before doing any major crossings.

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  • Nic

    Happy Holidays guys,
    Marvelous plan! I find being out on the water is wonderful. For a while now I’ve been getting things in order so that I can make my move to start my adventure. I have always loved the concept of traveling by land and by sea, both offer wonderful opportunities. I have spent countless hours researching RVs and boats.

    I pretty much have narrowed down my perfect choice for an RV and boat type. For boats, I have decided that a diesel trawler suits me best. Although sailing is very economical because there is little to none fuel consumption, I opt for easier handling whilst on the water. Also indoor navigate is essential for me when the weather is not optimal.

    No doubt you have done some research on the matter, but I thought to pass on some of my research knowledge with you:

    U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary – Great learning resource on boat safety, operations, chart reading etc
    American Sailing Association – Free online sailing course and within the organization they offer couples education
    boattest.com – Awesome site for learning about different manufactures. They do video reviews on performance, build, and interior design

    Best of luck on your new adventure and Happy New Year!

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  • Ridney

    I see where it says there are 55 comments to your story but nothing is showing below your statement at the bottom.

    Can’t find the 55 comments anywhere

    ?…

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    • Must be a little bug, I’ll check into it RIGHT away. Thanks.

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  • Hey guys! I heard you say you are going to Palm Springs and Joshua Tree for the holidays in your most recent video. If you do not have accommodation plans I wanted to invite you to stay in one of our five-star resorts, Emerald Desert RV Resort. It is a close distance to all the attractions you mentioned and we have villas where your family and friends can stay that do not have an RV!

    Please let me know if you are interested in checking out our resort, we would love to have you for the holidays before you venture off into the ocean!

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  • Dennis

    not sure why I can’t see comments, so if this has been ask sorry for the duplication. Having spend many years in a different sailing mode, I looked pretty long at getting a CAT and had a very close friend that got a 38 footer. I think Catamarans are the way to go (verse MONO hull that is) for probably a lot of the same reasons you are looking at. Jason, Have you looked at the captain’s school? I know they have one in Ft Lauderdale as that is where my friend did his. It was two weeks and 3 if you wanted your open water license to do anything beyond the US shoreline. I haven’t heard you mention it so was curious. I would not even consider taking a large CAT out without the certification. Not sure what the legal ramification are if you are discovered by the coast guard without proper certification. Good Luck, I think you all will miss the RV and camping lifestyle more (or maybe we will just miss your adventures more, LOL) but open water sailing is a big adventure and much more complicated weather and destination wise than RV travel. Looking forward to see your post, Happy Holidays

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  • Congrats! I think you’ll find the technicalities of a boat to be very familiar, albeit learning to sail is very different than driving an RV… 🙂 Having done both, I prefer sailing, but wifey prefers the RV, so what the heck, we do both. I think you’ll find the cruising community similar to the RV community in helpfulness and hospitality. Good choice on a Catamaran, and the Fountaine Pajot is definitely a good boat (not a fan of the Gemini myself). Whatever you choose, try to keep accessibility of the systems in mind: look for boats wherein the electrical and network runs are easy to locate and mess with, and the plumbing is as well; again, not that far off from RVs: you’ll find yourself wanting to mod to your preferences. I would also suggest having a watermaker installed, you’ll find it makes for a much more manageable water system. And for a fun read, check out my tongue-in-cheek novel on sailing away from the apocalypse (see my website below)… I hope you will be continuing your blogging once you are seaward…

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    • Thank you so much for sharing Zack, and yes we’ll be filming, photographing and writing the entire way 🙂

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  • Sheila Hagadone

    I am SO looking forward to your videos from the SEA!!! (You WILL still be doing videos, right?)
    What an EXCITING life you live!!!
    Here’s to the New Year!! Cheers!

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  • Christine

    How exciting….new adventures on the horizon! You two are so resourceful and creative, I am sure you will do well. Take it from a gal who has done her share of sailing (and RV’ing)…..RV travel will seem like a cakewalk. Practice, practice. Take sailing lessons. Fall overboard a few times. Learn navigation. It will be challenging but that’s what you’re after, right?

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  • Rodney

    No no no BOATS are not a wonderful dream come true.

    Loaded with boring weeks with nothing but ocean to look at and tons of hazards.

    Lots,of,people head out to sea and are never heard from again.

    I’ve owned a lot of sail boats but the dream never came close to reality of sailing the high seas.

    Some of the old sayings about boats should be a warning of the coming doom of your dream.
    Saying number 1). B.O.A.T. stands for Break Out Another Thousand, as in $$$$$
    Saying number 2). There are two good days of owning a boat. The day you buy it, and the day you sell it.

    Then there is the real risk of modern day PIRATES. Nice looking people that happen to drive by to say hello, or pretend to need help out in the ocean. This is a serious real concern everywhere in the world. They will do this for profit or just to have a little fun with the woman on board and then cast you aside into the ocean.

    Yes people do sail around and enjoy the boring expanse of the ocean, but many boats are never seen again.

    I have known of families that bought a boat and never made it to Hawaii as planned. What happened? Nobody knows. Could be a lot of possibilities but none of them involve a fun trip down the road.

    I sold my last boat and now look back at how foolish that dream was. If you want to go to Spain, get on a plane. There is nothing fun about months in the ocean traveling at a snails pace.

    But if you must continue along this path into the open oceans of the world, BUY A GUN, lots of guns with names like AK47, AR15, Barretta. Then learn to shoot very well.

    It’s been great reading your stories and we thank you for taking the hundreds of endless hours necessary to develope your videos. You guys have made a difference in a lot of people’s lives. Some had motorhomes or were influenced into buying one like us. And others just had the dreams and enjoyed your stories as if they had lived it themselves. Thank you very much. Sad to see you evolve in another area of life, but it had to happen some day.

    We met you at the LA Motorhome show, it was a pleasure to speak to you and listen to your opinions. I joked about your current Motorhome not matching your personality by say it’s like the Pope in boots and a cowboy hat saying eeha bless you son. Jason your reaction was funny.

    Well, I hope you change your mind about traveling the high seas.

    THANK YOU, it has been a pleasure
    Rodney (sometimes Ventura Ca, sometimes Newmar 3436).
    And yes we did “see you on the road” as we drove the 101 past a camp ground in Paso Robles we saw your Motorhome there along the wall. It was like seeing an old friend as we drove by shouting, “there they are”.

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  • George Moskowitz

    Dear Jason and Nikki,
    Wishing you all the joys of the New Year. Your news about going to the sea in a cat is very exciting and brings back wonderful memories of sailing the coastal waters of the east coast and the Virgin Islands. I had a Gemini 31 called Spirit and lived in St. Thomas for ten years. You are about to enter a very exciting time in your life and you already have many of the necessary skills which will aid in the transition to life on the water. As I think you already know, there will be a steep learning curve but with your youth, intelligence and enthusiasm I know you will be very successful. Thank you for the hours of knowledge and entertainment which you have provided over the years. I now live in Florida and hope to enter a new chapter in my life (retirement) aboard an RV.

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    • Thank you for sharing George, comments like these trump the naysayers ten fold! We really appreciate it.

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      • Lance

        I don’t think the naysayers are trying to be mean Jason I just think they are concerned as the ocean is extremely dangerous for even the most seasoned sailor. I myself am very concerned about your new venture. I hope It is the greatest adventure of your life but I can’t help but fair it could be the last adventure of your life. That being said preparation and caution can go along way towards mitigating risk. I know you two are very serious adventures, be mindful and always always always put safety first. I think I can safely speak for everyone when I say we would love to see you create videos and blogs for years and years to come.

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        • We’ll be well prepared before we push away. There’s no doubt we have lots of practice and learning in our future.

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  • Kathy E

    Cats can love the boating life! Just watch the wandering while docked. Mine sneaked out once at a busy marina, hopped aboard a sailboat and disappeared into a port window. Of course I envisioned what might be easy to drop into would be impossible to leap up and out. Fortunately she reappeared and returned to our trawler on her own. Peering into a bucket or cooler of fresh-caught Dungeness crab is a kitty’s delight. Best wishes getting the boat of your dreams and enjoy the adventure!

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  • rob chappell

    WOW!!!!!! That’s amazing. this will be the vlog to follow. Jason, if you mess up on a do it yourself, you may be swimming. That sounds like fun.

    how are you liking the nice chilly weather here in Los Angeles? just got here from the seattle area for another week and waiting for the warm….. Good luck to both you you.

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    • The cold weather has pretty much sealed the idea that buying a boat in FL vs CA is probably the best idea 🙂

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  • You two are great. I’m looking forward to your new “Sailing adventures” ARRRrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr Matey” Make sure you get life vests for the cats. I’ll miss your RVing input, since I’m very much into that field, but have enjoyed a little bit of fair weather sailing in my past, so your high sea adventures should be fun to read and view too. You’re headed for the Palm Springs area, will you be at the FMCA rally in Indio starting on Jan 6th? May the winds be at your back.

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  • Seema Sanchez

    Hi… we have a 40′ Mainship for sale..power boat…we will be buying an RV..for our next adventures..we lived on our boat for 6 years…hope to hear from you…Good Luck…

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    • Seema Sanchez

      Also check out FB page Live Aboard Boats…great group of people…you will get so much great info…

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    • Seema,
      Have fun with the switch…too bad we’re not looking for a powerboat.

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  • Ken

    Unbelievable! You are on a venture of a lifetime and the envy of SO many that would love to do what you are doing, but haven’t found the way yet. To be in a position to do these trips and and be able to survive is quit a feat. And you have attracted quite a following vicariously living with you, your lifestyle. Heck, I am an old guy, that full-timed RVed for 5 years(best years of my life) but had to go off the road for health reasons. So I too read every post and enjoy reading your blogs and living vicariously your life style. It brings back so many memories of when I was enjoying living on the road. I am one of the readers in the background that reads, but rarely says anything, but wanted to at least let you know there are plenty of us out here, enjoying all your posts. Bon Voyage are your new adventures.

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    • Ken,
      I’m so happy you said hello. Its nice to hear from new voices and especially with the stories you’ve just shared. We are extremely fortunate and are looking forward to the next adventure.

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  • Guy Owen

    Well, THANK YOU for all the great RV stories and tips — and I hope you enjoy your new lifestyle on the boat! You two are true professionals at this, and a joy to watch. I really wish — for my selfish sake (since I’m leaning toward buying a Class B or B+) — that you had completed or added to your Buying Guide. Maybe before you go?? 🙂

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  • Because of wonderful bloggers like you, I retired at Christmas, we are currently searching for our “just right” RV, and we are hitting the road in 2016. I even started a blog to document our search, and our journeys.
    Thank you for confirming how much fun it can be to get off the beaten path!

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    • GONGRATS Donna! Have fun on the search and remember finding that perfect RV and getting it setup for travel is often the most difficult part.

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  • Doug

    Exciting. I have secretly dreamed about cruising the Caribbean on a cat. Do either of you have a Captains license? Will you need one?

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  • Congratulations Jason and Nikki! We are so proud of you! You both have been an inspiration for us. Have an amazing time and please keep up the amazing work! Happy New Year! 🙂

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  • William (Bill) Weaver

    I can understand your desire to travel by water for a while. The view from the water is different and at times better than from the shore. Before you head out across the ocean, there is a lot water to explore closer to home. The Intercoastal Waterway is a good way to get your feet wet. It is well documented with port information and anchorages. The Great Loop trip up the east coast, across to the Great Lakes, down the MS River to the gulf, to the Keys is another adventure. Last but not least is the inside passage from Seattle to AK. Whatever you do, we all look forward to your sharing posts.

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  • Now that is exciting news!! Finally with the boat and travel to Europe!!! hurrah!!!!
    Though I will admit I thought thebig news might be a mini Wynn, but there’s still lotsa time for that. Can’t wait to read and watch your sailing adventures. massive hugs and happy new year xox Karin

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  • Robin Brower

    Great to hear about your new adventures. Many blessings and well wishes in the new year. My husband and I have followed you for the last 2 years and starting this spring we will be full time RVers heading out on our own adventures. Thanks for the inspiration and wealth of info.

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  • Roy

    Why not a house boat, traveling the rivers. Boondocking in the coves? There is The Great Loop you could do.
    No matter what you do I will be here watching. As always Happy Trails

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  • Joy

    Haha.. you guys are pretty funny… at first I’m thinking baby.. no way would you announce it like that .. then I’m thinking your touring Europe. Well I’m pretty excited about the sailing thing.. can not wait for all the adventures to begin. You crazy fun kids!

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    • If you see a post called our “Life changing Biggest News…” then maybe that’ll be a little one 🙂

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  • Congratulations, Guys!

    I’ve been waiting for this shoe to drop for a couple years… =)
    It was never an *if*, it was a *when*.

    I’m SO STOKED for you!

    -J

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  • Well, Incertainly enjoyed you Alaska journeys, and my husband and I are taking a cruise to Alaska this coming fall. We won’t be climbing any glaciers though! I’m certainly looking forward to seeing what catamaran you decide on .

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  • Sandy Wetzel

    So very happy for you’ll, so very sad for us. Your blog and videos are super helpful getting us ready towards our full time RVing, and we were looking forward to another year of ideas and tips. Regardless – I hope you’ll find freedom, open air and adventure on the sea when you are ready in Spring 2016! Thanks..

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  • Jason Ellis

    Boats!!!
    Now we are talking! My wife and I have been following your adventures for a while now and love the videos. We are currently boat shopping as well. I wanted to ask you a few questions about your shopping so far. We have a 6 yr old and expect a few visitors, so we are focusing on cats just a few feet longer. Please feel free to email back directly. Will you be going to Miami Boat Show? If so, we would love to meet you as we will be there.
    Oh Ya, don’t discount an Amel Mango or Santorin. Great monohulls. Lots of great sailing blogs and videos out there.

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    • Not sure we’ll make the Miami Boat show again this year. It’s likely we’ll be in FL late Feb. early March though.

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  • Dave Nadeau

    Ok congratulations on your next adventure! That said its a big BIG ocean. Please take the US Coast Guard safety course FIRST! Also an advanced navigation course. These courses will give you some break on insurances. OH and a first aide class.
    I’ve crossed the Atlantic three time courtesy of Uncle Sam and seen wave over 50FT its not imposable but definitely not for amateurs.

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    • Thanks Dave, don’t worry, we’ve got lots of practice planned with sailing pros.

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  • Teresa

    Congrats you two. Sooooo happy for you! That is awesome!

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  • Rogerhousley

    We Just started watch you folks,we p/u a Sony a6000 frist camera we ever own. Thank to you now we will miss your videos and writings, we have a class C Winnebago Diesel 2015 just purchased Nissan Sentra will be trying out for the frist time towing?

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    • I hope the Sony treats you as well as it’s treated us. Have fun out there!

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  • Hey Merry Christmas — my wife wrote you a few weeks ago asking about where to boondock in Los Angeles — Thank you so much for writing us back and the suggestions you gave -we decided to wing it and see if we could surf around and find somewhere closer – we made it work in Angeles Forest right on the outskirts of it 🙂 we were there for almost two weeks! We had her parents come into town for the holidays so we decided to go into a park for a few days over Christmas and… we just saw your bus!!! We are in the same park as you! We would absolutely love to meet you guys — if you are up for it, we are in spot 99, here until the 29th.

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  • Katie

    This is so exciting! My other half and I will be starting our venture across the states on January 7th. We plan to travel for all of 2016 or longer! Your videos and tips have been a huge help in our planning. (We got a compost toilet!)

    Safe travels and happy new year!

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    • Woo Hoo, another composting toilet convert! We love ours. Safe travels.

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  • Joseph Like

    Well, you are jumping track and going boating. I wish I could afford both. The CAT I like is the Fountaine. I would love to see one with electric drive and solar PV covered sails plus wind generators to keep batteries up to speed. I know that rig has not been made yet. But It would be interesting.

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  • Joe the computer guy

    Happy happy happy for ya. Sad, so sad, to see you move on. The RV life is for me and loved all the info you guys provided. Hope it will still be available for a long time to come. The rumors were out there and now it’s true. It’s on the Internet, right? I’ve seen the videos of Jason working on the rv. Doesn’t it scare you guys a little thinking he’ll be working on a boat? With water all around? Just sayin. Stay safe!
    Wishing you all a happy and healthy new year!!!
    And thanks again for all you’ve done.

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  • Love this! This is our plan as well, but we are leaning more towards starting the sailing life in a year or two. Excited to read more about your process and journey!

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  • Congrats to you both!! My husband is active duty U.S. Coast Guard and it is great to hear of your love for the ocean. We both love the ocean too. We are full time RVers waiting for 1 1/2 more years until his mandatory retirement before we can start traveling full time. However, I don’t think we will be full time sailing! I think he has had enough of boats for a while! LOL!

    Our 2015 was pretty exciting. We just had a new grandson born on Dec 15th to our youngest daughter (her first). Our oldest daughter has an 18 month old little boy and surprised us with the announcement of her second baby due next July so we will have 3 grandchildren by next summer. Been an exciting couple of years!

    Good luck in your search for just the right boat! It sounds very exciting!!

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    • WOW! That is an excited year! If your husband has any must-do our must-haves we’re all ears 🙂

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  • Bruce

    Sorry I won’t be enjoying as many RV videos from you in the next year – totally stoked you are taking on the challenge and fun of sailing full time! I have learned so much from you and delighted in your professional video & production. I hope we can continue to take part in your adventures and that you have a fantastic holidy season.
    Cheers!

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  • Bill

    Think abt starting somewhere mild while learning seamanship…i suggest American Virgins…St Thomas….no passport ot visa…mild waters…lots of places to anchor…easy to all BVI islands…when ready for Med…have it shipped or hire pro Capt to take it across pond…..sea can be very very dangerous if short on knowledge…
    Bill

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    • We’re on the same page Bill. We’re not too stubborn to sail over the big water with an experienced captain.

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  • cindy

    You crazy kids!!! I know whatever you set you mind and heart on you will succeed! I can’t wait to keep up and be with you both on some of the adventures! I’ll make sure Dennis sets aside some of his 2 week vacation(lol)
    to come adventure with you!!! Just tell me this… Will you’re video’s make me sea sick??? Happy new year-see ya shortly!
    Aunt Cindy

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    • HAHA, we have a nice gimbal for our camera that will help keep the videos more stable…we hope 🙂
      Can’t wait to have you on the boat with us in the near future.

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  • Bill

    Been sailing since 78….have a 35 footer in san diego…please be careful buying gemini…heard lots of not so good things about poor quality…fyi. if you need advice let me know.

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    • Thanks for the warning Bill. We’ve read the worst reports and the best reports from other Gem owners! I guess it depends on the model, year and even what tech put the boat together.

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  • Nelly Procee

    Would like to read the comments. Great website guys!

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  • Chris

    Hi, Interested in leasing a Class A diesel pusher. How much did it cost to lease the rv and where did you lease it from.
    Thank yoi

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    • We are in a Test RV, as far as we know leasing isn’t an option.

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  • Denise F

    I just can’t stop smiling with the amazing news!!! I always wanted to sail and for the chance to do it through you is a God-send! I loved all the stories and places “we” have gone so far, and I can imagine the water will have you gaining wisdom in a whole other direction! I will pray for calm seas, and the sun to be always at your back! Remember this advice…Red sky in morning, sailor take warning…red sky at night, sailors delight! Can’t wait to see what boat you find!

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  • Peg C

    Congratulations on your announcement. I can see you both loving the sailing life. Looking forward to more exciting posts and videos of your water adventures in the coming years. BTW Jason I love your cat festive shirt.

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  • Randy

    So happy that you will finally be fulfilling your dream! That being said, there will be a tremendous void in the RV blogging world without the two of you. Bless you both and smooth sailing!

    Guess now I will have a reason to learn about sailing 🙂

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  • Mike & Cathi Stark

    We hope you and all other RVers are safe during these terrible winter storms.

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  • Elic Hamilton

    Since you are in the sail/cat market exploring, take a look at the Antares sail boats!

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  • Pat

    Congratulations on the big move. Gonna miss the RV posts.

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  • Michael Bolton

    Barcelona, Barcelona, Barcelona!!! Took a cruise a couple months back on RCCL. Did the Mediterranean, WOW. But best of all, pre cruise spent 3 days in Barcelona, three weeks would have been better. Just way to much to see. The people are great, the food is great. I might suggest that ya’ll look at some youtube walking tours of Barcelona for ideas. I know this is way in the future but it’s always best too plan ahead. Best of LUCK you two!! Mike

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  • You’ve been talking about getting on the water for a while now, so this isn’t exactly a surprise, but it definitely is good news! You will either love it (probably) or hate it, but it won’t leave you unaffected. I can’t wait to see what you buy, and where you go.
    My plan for 2016 is finishing up Oliver’s Nest, and living in it full-time starting in the fall. It will be a huge change, not so much in space, as in freedom.
    Happy Holidays!

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  • Ed Wooten

    Good luck, “Fair winds and Following Seas”. That is an old sailors wish for a smooth journey. I have enjoyed all of your adventures, and the how to videos. Am looking forward to the sailing time with you. A little about me, 20 years Navy, 10 years aboard ship, DDG-9 Towers, DDG-14 Buchanan both of which are now artificial reefs, CVN-65 Enterprise, and lastly DDG-65 Benfold. I always enjoyed the life and the sea, particularly after evening chow when I could go up on the missile deck, smoke my pipe, and watch the sea glide by. Hope that you two can enjoy the sea as I had the privilege to do.

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    • Ed that sounds AWESOME! I’m gonna have to learn how to smoke a pipe too. Ha.

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  • Steve Kiemele

    I hope that you have chartered a 35′ sailboat. Try a couple of weeks before you decide to live aboard. The living space on a 35′ sailboat, cat or monohull, is dramatically less than a 35′ RV. Also, you can’t spread out to the outside. Love your YouTube channel. We are both RVers and sailors, but mostly sail smaller boats

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    • Oh yea, we’ve been on several boats and the space in a 35′ cat seems to be similar to a 30ft RV…minus the slides!

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  • Michael M

    Hi Jason and Nikki,
    I haven’t been able to view your website without problems for several months. I can read the articles, but I can’t see the comments. I’m happy it’s not locking up my browser at the moment. I’m unlikely to see your reply but you’ll have my email address if you would like to further converse.

    We were the former catamaran sailing couple with a young boy that drove up late the into Coburg, OR service facility and briefly introduced ourselves before we had to get our son in bed and you both had to leave/pack for your early departure the next day. We are currently in Valley Center, CA and we’re heading over to San Diego in January.

    The Pajot and Seawind are good vessels; I would favor the Seawind over the Pajot. I never heard good things about the Broadblue and those I did see were not outfitted to survive without the generator running most of the time while on the hook among other more significant reasons to disregard including bridge deck height. The Gemini’s I saw all used gas outboards which can be a plus.

    I think you should also look at the Manta 42. I believe the Manta will be easier to sail than all 4 you mention primarily because of the self tacking jib and all lines run to the helm. And the Manta has an awesome support forum: http://mantaowners.org/. I used their support often.

    There are many Mantas on the east coast. Although it’s a 42 foot, they only have a 21 foot beam which is extremely convenient for hauling out. I would argue they were easier to sell than all those you mentioned because of the self tacking jib. Since you’ve chosen to go with a catamaran, you will be challenged to find moorage in a marina, at least on the west coast it was. But you may have more choices in protected anchorages due to your shallow draft.

    We had two cats and a dog onboard our vessel. We may be to answer some questions in regard to pets.

    I could chat forever about sailing and especially catamarans. Feel free to contact us via email. I have no problem sharing my phone number via email as well.

    Cheers… and Happy New Year!
    Michael

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  • Dinah

    I feel sad.

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  • Well, since you asked…..I’m retiring from the US Postal Service on January 1st, then my wife and I are hitting the road full-time in February in our DRV Suites 38′ 5th wheel! We are so excited to begin this next phase of our lives. I have learned so much about the RV lifestyle from you guys and your website. I wish you luck on your boat adventures, but I also hope you still keep posting up great advice on living in an RV while you sail the world.

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  • Linda Byrd

    How exciting for you both. We’ve enjoyed all your adventures. My husband & I are going full time in April of 2016.
    Would you please show us your closet space and how you organize storage. That’s seems to be a big issue.
    THANK YOU

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  • Congrats you two, that’s so exciting! Happy new year.

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  • Nette

    Please please tell me you have connected with Scott and Brittney at windtraveler.net. They will have a wealth of helpful info for you in this new exciting journey of sailling! Plus, I suspect you will find a great deal in common. As a sailor of the Great Lakes, I’m excited for this new chapter in your lives! Fair Winds!

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  • Windy

    I thought you were going to tell us you were having a baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  • How exciting! My husband and I announced a few weeks ago that we are going to start a huge adventure of RVING full time! We are about 2 weeks out from leaving! Good luck on your new adventure. I can’t wait to see your new posts from the water!

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  • Elizabeth

    I’m so excited for you! In my past life, I crewed races on Chesapeake Bay. (Mostly out of Annapolis.) Which prompts me to remind you that there is a huge boat show in the late winter in Annapolis, which could be a chance to explore your preferred boats, and perhaps identify a few others. A number of friends bought beloved used boats at the show, so if it isn’t too far to travel, you might want to check it out. Good luck! P.S. I hope you’ll continue to blog about your adventures at sea. ? Happy Holidays!

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  • Kathryn

    If you haven’t already found Pat and Ali Schulte at Bumfuzzle.com be sure to check out their adventures in first, a cat in which they sailed around the world, and second a mono after their two kids Ouest and Lowe were born in Mexico. They are now on land, in an ancient RV that is their mobile home in Mexico. You’ll get alot of info about living aboard from these novice sailors.

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    • We’ve been lucky enough to hang with the Bum crew a few times over the years, great people!

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  • Gilles

    Really a boat, OK, could be interesting, good luck on your new adventure.

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  • Jane

    Gracious! So are you planning to sail the gulf and Carribean waters…maybe a Bahamas trip..up the east coast?

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  • Tom M

    Sorry to hear you’re going to be off road for a time. I spent several years on the water but I far prefer dry land. But I wasn’t sailing for pleasure. I was a merchant seaman.
    Happy Holidays and good luck.

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  • Lagoon 450, that’s the boat we will be going to when we move from RV to sailboat.

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  • Sally Glass

    WOW what great news …. You must must must sail through the Whitsundays !
    Hope you make it to Australia as their are so many RV experiences you need to explore here. But if you do …. I think the cats would have to go in quarantine 🙁

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  • A cat for sure Gemini looked awesome last time I was looking at some.info on them and you can find some used.ones at a half decent price.

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    • That half decent price part is totally why we’re going used.

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  • Janaea Cordier Barnard

    I had to laugh out loud when I read this. I have followed you both in your travels. But this last year we (husband and myself) decided to put our RV for sale, or keep it for whatever, and buy a sailboat. We did buy the sailboat and still have the RV at present.We took many ASA courses and husband got his captain license. We went round and round for 3 years on what to buy. We bought a 31 foot almost new monohull. We are now selling it and buying a 50 foot almost new sailboat. We almost bought a Fontaine as well. Too funny!
    This of course requires we now also sell our house which we are very excited to do. If you come to Seattle area again, would love to show you our boat. How very exciting your new venture. I know we love love love our change of course in life.

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    • Oh man, are you trying to tell us we need a bigger boat? 🙂 See you out there on the water.

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  • Hugh RJ

    Hardest part is making the decision….but now you have made that choice, so Go for it!!…..Everything will fall into place, even for un-planners 🙂
    All the best,
    H&L, J&M

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    • We’re all in Hugh, we’ve got our sights set and are willing to travel anywhere for that perfect boat! I do hope we get to NC one day to share a sundowner with you guys.

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  • Sheryn

    Happy (exciting) New Year!! Have you heard the a blog named “Our Odyssey”? I have followed them on and off for a couple of years. They were also RVer’s and now live on a boat. You can find them on Google if you have not. By the way, they also have a cat. 🙂 Surely much to learn and a different way of life. Good luck to you!!

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  • Hal

    Ahoy mates,
    Love all of your videos and info. Thank you. My wife and I boated for 15 years and did the entire East Coast (Maine to Florida) and loved it. We moved to the Midwest and are now loving our motorhome.

    RVing is a lot like boating but you do need to make sure that you know the Rules of the Road. I suggest that both of you take the basic Coast Guard course and if feeling really ambitious get a Coast Guard Captains License. Looking forward to seeing your nautical adventures!

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  • Paul Green

    Happy Happy and Merry Merry to you two (four?). As a former sailboat owner (31′ Irwin Citation) I can tell you there is “some” sameness to the RV. But only so much. Best of luck to you. And, like RVs sailboat comfort is all about total length (and beam). I’m a tad bit bummed that the two best RV Bloggers in the US are moving away from RV Ownership. Hey, you gotta do what you gotta do. Right?

    Best wishes no matter what.

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  • Jim Airey

    You’re going out to sea?? That’s kind of cool…but what about the beasts?? The cats! They can’t go with you out to sea and I really do enjoy seeing them with you on your land adventures.
    PLEASE be careful when you “ship out” on your new adventures.
    Oh God, I’m thinking Gilligan’s Island here!!

    I love to listen and watch you both. Good luck with whatever you do!

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  • Pat

    I’ve been following you since you started and so enjoy your adventures look forward to 2016

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  • Thank you for your Christmas Card revealing your future plans. I’ve been following you for quite a while. Can’t wait to hear of your boating adventures.

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  • Sam Nash

    As always, love your lifestyle and vlogs. Just out of curiosity, are you sure about learning to sail in a cat, I can’t believe anybody has told you it’s easier than a mono hull. It’s also great to start in a smaller yacht but don’t be fooled by smaller is easier. I had a 30 footer that needed a crew of four, our new 58 footer with electric winches and all mod cons can be handled by a skipper alone, not recommended but possible.Enjoy yourselves, it’s a great life.One things for sure, Nikki will have to cut back her wardrobe and say goodbye to your washer/drier. Don’t be put off by pedants like me, just go for it.

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  • Linda

    I thought you guys were e gonna say you’re pregnant!

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  • Jerry Cummins

    We look forward to the new adventures in 2016. It is nice to see responsible adventures . . . and the ability to combine a livlihood along with travel, excitement and doing what you love to do. From drive on, let’s just say: “Cast off mate, mind your helm and watch the stars.”

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  • We will follow your adventures be they land or sea.
    Stay in warm waters and watch out for pirates.

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  • Jen

    Ah I thought you were going to say that you were having a baby! hehehehe I remember last year I think y’all were talking about a 2 year plan to see the US then finish in Florida and buy a boat and then you got the call from Fleetwood. I’m glad that you are still going to do the boat. That’s awesome! I’ve always loved the water and will look forward to your boating adventures and more of Jason’s HOW TO vids on the boat. 🙂 Best of luck to you both! Happy New Year! 🙂

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  • Jim Marzano

    Nikki ans Jason,
    We met in Chicago, you came out sailing with us. I‘m excited for you guys and your plans for a new adventure.
    The ironic thing is my wife and I have put sailing on hold and are about to begin RVing full time. Meeting you guys was what got me interested.
    I have a few thoughts and opinions regarding questions you have about the sailing world. I would be happy to share them if you want to contact me.
    Captain Jim

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  • Wow, that’s going to be amazing!! Best of luck finding the perfect boat and perfect place to sail.

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  • Brunella

    I swear when I read the heading I thought you guys were pregnant! Haha. But the boat new is pretty awesome as well.

    Before we purchased our first 5th wheel and decided to go full time, my husband always wanted to go boating full time. The problem is that I get pretty bad motion sickness and wasn’t up for that.
    So maybe seeing how it goes for you guys, I’ll get inspired. 🙂

    Good luck with the search and catamarans are the bomb!!! So super excited for the 4 of yas.

    Happy belated Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

    Brunella.

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    • I am hoping sea sickness isn’t a problem, Nikki’s pretty confident but I have this sinking feeling I’ll be curled over the edge of the boat more often than I’d like 🙂

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  • Marjorie Preston

    May I recommend a blog written by Marce and Jack Schulz, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA? About two years ago, they set sail in a catamaran called Escape Velocity. They have since crossed the Pacific and are now in New Zealand. They’re not only great adventurers but wonderful writers. Find them at http://escapevelocity.mobi/aboutus/

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  • It’ll be fun to hear about your new adventure. Our daughter and her husband are currently living in Hobart, Tasmania. She is a hydro chemist on the Investigator, Australia’s new research ship. They are sailboat shopping. He comes from a family of boat builders and has sailing experience. They are considering sailing back to the USA when they return.

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  • Sonia and David

    How exciting. Had a feeling when you said you had big news that it might have something to do with water. Well good for you. You sure know how to get the most out of life. My husband and I have been boating for over 20 yrs. Our last boat was a 38′ Carver. So a 35’er is perfect, not too small nor too big. We recently purchased a 35′ motorhome and have traded in our chart plotter n depth finder for the Garmin RV gps. Some time in 2016 after we sell our house, we will be navigating the highways instead of the waterways. Boating safety course highly recommended.

    Will you be updating your blog with your nautical escapades? Hope so.
    Cool cat t-shirt, Jason. Great Christmas picture of the two of you with your adorable cats.

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    • Thanks for the positive words. We too think a 35′ cat will be nice, many think we’re going to small!
      Of course we’ll be sharing our experiences and new technologies from the boating world! We’re excited to bring our RV knowledge to the sailing world to see what’s the same and what is different.

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  • Diane Sanderbeck

    Hi Nikki and Jason!
    I’ve been following you for years and have learned so much. Good luck in your search for a sailboat. The Fountaine Pajot is a gorgeous boat! Check out turftosurf.com and see Tasha and Ryan’s new one. It’s a great story! Best of luck you y’all in 2016!
    Diane

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  • How exciting! A new adventure! Well, of course, it’s always an adventure but I’m really excited for you both, and for your kitties. It’ll be a lot of fun following along on your sailing excursions! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you!

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  • Robert Lighton

    Thought you guys were going for the sailboat soon. I have been watching Youtube videos like crazy of people going around the world in their sailboats. You fit right in to this crowd. Checkout sailing la vagabonde and sv delos and chase the story…all incredible blogging….and it holds my attention way better than RV stories. Through this I have become obsessed with seeing videos about all the sailboats available. They are something else. Also Annie Ford on youtube…another one sailing the globe.
    Gotta see what boat you end up with!!! Cheers for the New Year..

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  • Armor Todd

    When will you be in Joshua Tree?

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  • I can tell you that a 35 foot sailboat is NOT VERY BIG. I lived in the Virgin Islands where I met my first husband. His father had a very nice, albeit, cramped 35 foot sailboat. Super small kitchen with a box refrigerator. Combo toilet/shower. Not at all what you are accustomed to in an RV of the comparable length. I had several opportunities to check out larger sailboats while living in the Caribbean. 42 feet is going to offer you much more space and allow for the kitties. 48 feet will feel more like your RV. Just my 2 cents.

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  • Martine

    So excited for you guys. Cat is definitely the only way I would ever go. Can do so much more with them. We don’t own one but have bareboated a few times. You guys are going to have a blast and I can’t wait to see the videos.

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  • kevin

    i have been a fan of Lagoon catamarans for years. The 38 ft is good for two people. Tons of storage and the boat does not heel (tip) much. Have fun shopping!

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    • We like the Lagoon cats too but they’re a little steep for our pocketbooks!

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  • Mark Lawler

    You will have to address first hand the perception that build quality in the boating industry is so much better than for RVs! 😉 We hear and read it all the time, but you’ll have to let us know the real story.

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  • Scott & Irina Green

    Are you guys close to that fire? Hope not.
    We did a Facetime with you guys about a year ago asking you Vesta questions. We ended up with a 2007 38 foot Monaco Cayman. We decided against a front engine. After fixing the normal stuff, we think it’s going to be a great coach. We are installing a residential fridge, induction 2 burner cooktop, and have upgraded to a 2 kw pure sine-wave inverter and stack washer and dryer. We lucked out when we found this coach, it already had a 3 panel solar set up on the roof and the ride enhancement kit already installed. But I think the solar charge wire looks too small going from the controller to the batteries. I need to find a good solar shop to look at it and maybe upgrade it. Any ideas about who might be a good shop?

    We were in Palm Desert at the Emerald Desert Resort for a month just before Thanksgiving. We like it down there a lot. We’ll be anxious to see your videos.

    Get all the education and training you can possibly stand before you get out on the water. “When” things go wrong, you need to be ready. Blue water sailing is a big boys game and a huge step to take.
    Stay safe out there…..

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    • Hey Scott,
      We have an install video we’re working on now for RV solar that should help you with your install questions. We’re heading to Palm Springs area mid January, no official plan just yet but keep an eye on our map if you’d like to possibly meet up.

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  • Jim

    Wow, I just discovered your full time RV’ing experience and now you are moving on to your next big adventure. You have compiled a wealth of inspiring and informative information on full time RV’ing so I’m hoping you keep this content on your website for reference. I am about 5 years out from early retirement plans with RV’ing definitely in the plans. I find that your approach pretty much matches my thoughts and so I definitely want to learn from your experiences and travel/RV’ing lessons learned, tips, and travel resource information. Big congratulations on your decision and I will continue to follow your new adventure and who knows, you may end up inspiring me to take up sailing someday.

    Happy Holidays and Keep living the life!

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  • We are very happy for you both about your news of hitting the high seas……however this same news is not happy for us. You two have no idea how much you have inspired us over the last year. We purchased a gas class A and enjoyed it but knew that we were destined for greater things i.e. full time RV life. We lived your adventures as if we were there ourselves and had hoped that one day we would chance a meeting out on the road. I started out in Dallas on television for a Hot tub company back in the 80’s and now play music based in Myrtle Beach< SC.
    Bon Voyage but never forget there are many of us waiting each week for new RV posts from our favoirite Vloggers Jason and Nicki.

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    • Our cat won’t be too different from an RV, especially while we’re coastal cruising.

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  • David

    A sailing video/blog I follow is svdelos.com. Also
    Sailing La Vagabonde on youtube. They maybe a good resource for you.

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  • liz piccione-volger

    Have you seen Zero to Cruising’s 32 PDQ?

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  • Congrats on making the decision to start adventuring on water. You guys have some exciting times ahead! I think 35′ is a great size. It’s what we went for – easy to manage by two folks and big enough to be comfortable in. All the best in the boat search. Looking forward to your sailing adventures.

    Nikki – you might want to check out the Women Who Sail Facebook group. Great resource and super helpful folks.

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  • Josh

    You need to spend a lot of time reading and asking questions on cruisersforum.com. I don’t know what your sailing plans entail but the boats you listed are considered “coastal cruisers”. If you plan to cross any large bodies of water I would increase the size to a 38′-40′. For used models in similar price range to the models you listed I would add the Lagoon 380, Lavezzi 40, and Leopard 40. Here is a great blog from a guy with no experience who bought a catamaran a couple years ago: http://www.thenomadtrip.com

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  • Michael Cimoli

    Good luck on buying a cat. Take a look at the Lagoon as well. There are a lot of good videos about sailing cats on youtube. We (my fiance and myself ) are boat shopping as well, and we are looking for a 40-4ft7in mono-hull. Great videos, keep up the great job and we can’t wait to see your video as you go through the boat buying process.

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  • Jeffrey DeRoche

    Can’t wait to watch Jason drill holes in the boat!

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