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Buying a boat isn't just a transaction—it's the gateway to freedom, adventure, and a lifestyle that many dream about but aren't always prepared for. Sisters Melanie and Carolyn Neale from Sunshine Cruising Yachts bring their extraordinary background as lifelong sailors and yacht brokers to this enlightening conversation about what it really takes to find your perfect vessel.

Check out Melanie's Books:
Boat Buying Basics: https://amzn.to/4ez2vUP
Boat Girl: https://amzn.to/4l99CWq
Boat Kid: https://amzn.to/3GsOgUU

Having spent 19 years growing up on a sailboat, these sisters offer insights you simply won't find elsewhere. "A boat is not an investment," Melanie candidly shares. "It's an investment in your dreams, quality of life, time, and joy." This refreshing honesty permeates their approach to guiding buyers through the often complex journey of boat ownership.

The conversation unpacks crucial aspects of the buying process that potential owners frequently underestimate, from the true costs of maintenance (expect to spend roughly 10% of your boat's value annually) to the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies this major life decision. The sisters break down the typical four-to-five-week timeline from making an offer to closing, explaining the importance of thorough surveys and proper representation throughout.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is their perspective on family dynamics in boating. Having shared a V-berth with only a curtain separating them as kids, they understand intimately that "everybody needs their own space" on a boat, especially children. Their advice for couples considering the cruising lifestyle is equally thoughtful, emphasizing the importance of both partners feeling included and competent in handling the vessel.

Whether you're actively shopping for your first boat, dreaming of upgrading, or simply curious about the cruising lifestyle, this conversation offers practical wisdom delivered with warmth and authenticity. From navigating the current market conditions to avoiding common pitfalls, Melanie and Carolyn's insights might just save you from making an expensive mistake—or help you find exactly the right boat to launch your adventures.

Ready to turn your boating dreams into reality? This episode is your first step toward making informed decisions that will have you sailing confidently into the sunset.

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SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25

SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
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What happens when a 60-year-old retired teacher decides to sail solo from New England to the Bahamas? Deborah Hammett's remarkable journey proves that our boldest chapters can begin exactly when society expects us to slow down.

After three decades teaching on Martha's Vineyard, Deborah traded lesson plans for navigation charts and sailed her 36-foot Jeanneau "Mavia" over 1,500 miles - mostly alone. Her transition wasn't without challenges. From anchoring alone near Harlem at night to fixing mechanical failures with no prior experience, Deborah faced countless moments where panic and fear threatened to overwhelm her. Yet each obstacle became a lesson in resilience and self-reliance.

Throughout our conversation, Deborah reveals how sailing transformed both her mindset and capabilities. She describes mastering diesel engines and electrical systems through YouTube videos, learning the rhythms of docking and navigation, and discovering a generous sailing community that defied her expectations. Perhaps most powerfully, she confronted long-held beliefs about herself and others, finding that her preconceptions often limited her more than any external challenge.

Beyond the practical aspects of her journey, we dive into the profound emotional growth that comes from pursuing a dream that others might consider impossible or impractical. Deborah argues passionately that retirement should be viewed as an opportunity for bold new beginnings rather than a winding down. Her experience suggests that actively learning complex skills might even help stave off cognitive decline, while the physical demands of sailing have motivated her to maintain strength and fitness well into her 60s.

Whether you're contemplating your own sailing adventure or simply wondering what might be possible in your next chapter, Deborah's story will inspire you to reconsider the boundaries you've set for yourself. After all, as she reminds us, "People do what they want to do." The only question is: what adventure are you putting off?

Support the show

SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25

SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
YOUTUBE PLAYLIST: https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist

PODCAST TOOLS:
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The moment Jerome Rand set sail from the United States in his 1975 Westsail 32, he entered a world few modern sailors will ever experience. For 271 consecutive days, battling the planet's most treacherous waters completely alone, Rand wasn't just testing his sailing abilities – he was discovering the very edges of human resilience.

What makes Rand's journey uniquely compelling is his deliberate choice to forego modern sailing advantages. Selecting a heavy, full-keeled vessel over faster alternatives and eschewing sponsors or significant media attention, he sought the authentic experience of circumnavigation from the golden age of solo sailing. As he drifted past Point Nemo – Earth's most isolated spot with 1,600 miles of empty ocean in every direction – Rand wasn't just geographically removed from humanity; he was experiencing a psychological journey equally as profound.

The Southern Ocean was definitely challenging. For four and a half months, Rand battled 30-foot waves and sustained 55-knot winds, listening to the terrifying sound of white water slamming against fiberglass during violent knockdowns. Yet the physical challenges paled compared to the mental battles. "You become a student of what's going on up there," Rand explains, detailing his practice of "control thinking" – focusing on just one ocean, one day, or even one immediate problem rather than the overwhelming entirety of his journey. This mental discipline, coupled with his remarkable ability to find humor in suffering ("This is going to make for a pretty funny story"), carried him through moments that would crush most sailors.

The wisdom Rand gained transcends sailing. His discovery that true disconnection from our hyper-connected world leads to a childlike state of presence – where watching clouds becomes profoundly satisfying – offers a powerful lesson about modern living. Perhaps most inspiring is his message about resources: extraordinary achievements don't require extraordinary means. "You can do these huge things and you don't need every resource on the planet," he insists. "You can start really small and do really big stuff."

Has the chaos of modern life disconnected you from what matters? Listen now as Jerome Rand shares how 30,000 miles of solitude revealed truths about resilience, perspective, and what humans can accomplish with limited resources but unlimited determination.

Support the show

SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25

SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
YOUTUBE PLAYLIST: https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist

PODCAST TOOLS:
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What drives someone with zero ocean experience to sail 2,500 miles across the Pacific alone with just a cat as crew? Oliver's remarkable journey from Oregon to Hawaii captivated millions, transforming him from an unknown sailor with a few thousand followers into a viral sensation greeted as a hero upon his arrival in Waikiki.

The raw authenticity of his story resonates deeply with people seeking inspiration in their own lives. "I think everybody's kind of at this breaking point," Oliver reflects, "but I just went all in and went for it." This simple decision to pursue something meaningful despite overwhelming odds struck a chord with viewers worldwide who saw themselves in his struggles and triumphs.

His crossing wasn't without terrifying moments. When his rudder failed during 38-knot winds, locking hard to starboard and putting his boat beam to the seas, Oliver faced what could have been a catastrophic situation. "The lifelines were going into the water, coming out of the water," he recalls of the violent motion. With remarkable resourcefulness, he managed temporary repairs using lashing until calmer conditions allowed for proper fixes. Other challenges included getting trapped in a locker when the boat heeled (escaping only because he had a wrench with him) and learning to manage daily life at sea with his feline companion Phoenix, who adapted beautifully to become "a walking gimbal" navigating the boat better than her human.

Perhaps most surprising was Oliver's admission that he felt a certain melancholy upon reaching land. After weeks alone with just his thoughts and the vast ocean, the transition to instant fame was jarring. "I felt like I sailed through a wormhole and arrived into a different universe," he says of the flotilla that greeted him, including the coast guard and traditional canoes. Despite now having millions of followers, he remains humble and focused on the journey ahead—exploring Hawaii before continuing to French Polynesia in March, with plans to eventually circumnavigate the globe.

Want to follow Oliver's continuing adventures? Subscribe to his channels and join the millions of people finding inspiration in his willingness to chase dreams despite fear, inexperience, and uncertainty. As one viewer commented, "Being yourself, as awkward as you might think you are, is what draws me to watch."

Support the show

SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25

SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
YOUTUBE PLAYLIST: https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist

PODCAST TOOLS:
Livestream: Https://streamyard.com/pal/d/5430067749060608
Create AI Clips: https://klap.app/?via=SaltyAbandon

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What does it take to transform from a military officer into a global sailor chasing the horizon? Captain James Canning's journey aboard his Regina 43 sailboat Archila reveals the realities behind the sailing dream – equal parts adventure, challenge, and unexpected wildlife encounters.

From his early days learning on small dinghies in central England to navigating the treacherous waters near Gibraltar where orcas systematically attack sailboats, James shares candid insights about his transformation into a blue water cruiser. After 17 years in the Royal Air Force, one charter holiday rekindled his passion for sailing, eventually leading to his 2018 purchase of Archila, which he jokingly refers to as "going into self-induced bankruptcy."

The conversation takes us through his Atlantic crossing preparation, where Brexit complications and COVID restrictions shaped his route through the Canary Islands and Cape Verde before the 2,200-mile ocean passage to Grenada. Despite losing his parasailor early in the journey and surviving a mid-Atlantic whale impact that damaged his rudder and skeg, James completed the crossing in 14 days using only wind power. His twin genoa setup and calm problem-solving under pressure demonstrate the resilience required for successful ocean voyaging.

Most compelling is James's encounter with the infamous Iberian orca pod that has sunk multiple sailboats near Gibraltar. His practical advice for navigating these waters – staying within the 20-meter depth contour – offers valuable insights for sailors planning Mediterranean passages. Similarly, his enthusiastic endorsement of copper coating as "one of the best investments" for hull maintenance provides real-world wisdom for boat owners everywhere.

Whether you're dreaming of your first sailboat or planning your own ocean crossing, this episode delivers authentic experiences from someone who's living the dream while facing its challenges. Listen now and discover why Captain James believes the simple advice to "reef early" might be the most important sailing lesson of all.

Support the show

SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25

SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
YOUTUBE PLAYLIST: https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist

PODCAST TOOLS:
Livestream: Https://streamyard.com/pal/d/5430067749060608
Create AI Clips: https://klap.app/?via=SaltyAbandon

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Rich Whitlock (@rich_whitlock9603) shares the smart upgrades he’s made to his 2018 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 419—from ☀️ solar and 📡 Starlink to 🧭 chartplotters & more. Whether you're refitting your cruiser or dreaming of the liveaboard life, this episode is packed with tips and gear talk you don’t want to miss.

Ever wondered what happens when submarine engineering meets modern sailing? Rich Whitlock, a former nuclear submarine officer with a mechanical engineering background, takes us deep into the technical transformation of his 2018 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 419.

From bow to stern, Rich breaks down his methodical approach to boat systems, starting with his 55-pound Rakhna spade anchor upgrade that provides unmatched holding power. His communication and navigation setup—featuring radar with custom alarms, AIS-receiving VHF, and advanced sonar imaging—creates multiple safety layers for solo offshore passages.

The heart of Rich's sailing philosophy revolves around power independence. He walks us through his lithium battery conversion that increased capacity by 70% while reducing weight, paired with an intelligent 700-watt solar array using specialized SIGs panels that perform remarkably well even in partial shade. The pure sine wave inverter running his coffee maker, laptop, and surprisingly efficient air fryer showcases how cruising comfort doesn't have to sacrifice energy consciousness.

What truly sets Rich's approach apart is his submarine-influenced redundancy strategy. Three different outboards, multiple dinghies, portable generators, and even a battery-powered air conditioner ensure he's never without options when plans change. His recent eight-day, 1,300-mile solo passage from the Bahamas to Saint Martin demonstrates how these systems function together in real-world conditions.

Whether you're planning your own extensive refit or simply curious about maximizing your boat's capabilities, Rich's blend of technical expertise and practical experience offers a fascinating roadmap to modern, self-sufficient cruising. His journey proves that with methodical planning and the right equipment, sailors can extend their range and comfort while maintaining robust safety systems for offshore adventures.

Support the show

SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25

SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
YOUTUBE PLAYLIST: https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist

PODCAST TOOLS:
Livestream: Https://streamyard.com/pal/d/5430067749060608
Create AI Clips: https://klap.app/?via=SaltyAbandon

Send us a text

What if you could walk away from everything? The bills, the commute, the endless cycle of working to pay for things you barely have time to enjoy?

Captain Mark J. Reinhardt didn't just dream about it—he did it. Speaking from his sailboat in the Solomon Islands, Mark takes us deep into the realities of living completely off-grid on the open water. With candid honesty rarely found in sailing narratives, he reveals both the breathtaking freedom and sobering challenges of his unconventional life.

Mark shares the unlikely path that led from growing up on an Orlando lake to sailing 10,000 miles across the world's most challenging waters. After financial collapse following the 2008 recession and a humbling stint as a dishwasher, Mark found himself walking down the Florida coast with nothing but a backpack and tent. In that moment of rock bottom, he recognized his calling to return to the sea.

The heart of this conversation explores Mark's harrowing experience crossing the South Pacific alone—a journey that nearly cost him everything. With unflinching detail, he recounts how equipment failures, a devastating hand injury, and overwhelming seas pushed him to his absolute breaking point. His raw account of battling not just the elements but his own mind reveals the psychological resilience necessary for true self-reliance.

Beyond survival tales, Mark offers practical wisdom about the everyday realities of boat life. From conserving water and managing resources to finding innovative solutions for everything from flies to laundry, he demystifies the sailing lifestyle. His colorful stories of encounters with indigenous communities and the colorful characters he's met along the way paint a vivid picture of a life rich in experience if not luxury.

Whether you're an aspiring sailor, a freedom-seeker, or simply curious about alternative living, Mark's journey demonstrates what happens when you have the courage to choose adventure over security. His book "Off the Grid" and upcoming sequel document this remarkable path—proving that sometimes the most meaningful life isn't about what you acquire, but what you're brave enough to leave behind.

Support the show

SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25

SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
YOUTUBE PLAYLIST: https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist

PODCAST TOOLS:
Livestream: Https://streamyard.com/pal/d/5430067749060608
Create AI Clips: https://klap.app/?via=SaltyAbandon

Send us a text

Oliver from Sailing Phoenix returns for a live update before he sets sail on one of the biggest adventures of his life—a solo(ish) crossing from Oregon to Hawaii with his trusty crewmate, Phoenix the cat.

Since our last chat in November 2024, Oliver has been hard at work making critical repairs and upgrades to his sailboat to get it ocean-ready for the journey ahead. In this episode, we dive into:

• What’s been fixed, changed, and overhauled since November
  
  
• The reality of preparing a boat for offshore sailing
  
  
• His route planning and timeline
  
  
• How he’s balancing preparation with anticipation
  
  
• What it’s like having a cat aboard for such a big crossing
  
  
• The emotional and mental prep involved in solo passagemaking

This is a raw and honest conversation about what it really takes to make a Pacific crossing—from one sailor to another.

*🎙️ LIVE at 6pm Central – April 16, 2025*
*Podlink:* [https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist](https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist)

Subscribe for more weekly sailing stories, offshore prep tips, and interviews with cruisers around the world. It’s always a great day to talk about sailing.

#SaltyAbandon #SaltyPodcast #Sailing #PacificCrossing #SailingPhoenix

Support the show

SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25

SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
YOUTUBE PLAYLIST: https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist

PODCAST TOOLS:
Livestream: Https://streamyard.com/pal/d/5430067749060608
Create AI Clips: https://klap.app/?via=SaltyAbandon