SOLO SAILING ACROSS THE ATLANTIC: Knowing when to quit.
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- čas přidán 6. 09. 2024
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Encountering a MIGRANT RAFT between the Canary Islands and Africa: • Encountering a MIGRANT...
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Less than 48 hours after leaving Lanzarote on my solo transatlantic, I got called in by the Coast Guards to go assist with the rescue operation of a migrant raft.
In the wake of that fateful night, I was left dealing with the emotional aftermath almost on my own, and now have to make a decision as to if I continue or not.
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Ryan talks about his encounter with a migrant raft on the "On the Wind" Podcast:
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A lot of you already know the outcome of Ryan's ultimate decision, but getting there was a roller coaster of a process, that took a lot of energy from both of us. Sometimes, continuing is not the right thing to do, and is a very valid alternative to explore. It takes great strength to recognize that you do not have it in you to pursue what once was a dream, because circumstances have changed. So the next time you see someone making a decision to drop off, give them a big congratulations on trusting their guts and standing up for themselves. /Sophie
It saves lives. I’m grateful you trust your intuitions. It’s so important to share these journeys. In today’s era, the voices of the humbly courageous are paramount.
Sophie, ice princess!
Your episodes are always true, real and transparent. I follow you guys because of these qualities. Someone elses goals are not yours. It is important to realize the decision is from their heart and mind, not yours.
So... Ryan reaches Cape Verde and says it is Feb 2, 2022... today is April 16. A lot can happen after two months... is this some sort of a teaser to keep your audience ?
Behind every succeful man a strong woman and you have strong, intelligent and beautiful women.
Shepherds are responsible for their livelihoods. The captain's decision is final and undebatable.
No one can really understand someone's emotions unless they shared the same trauma. Ye made me cry 😢 on your last video as I understood exactly what you were going through, I lived the same experience in the same waters. We only hear sometimes on the news about overfilled boats sinking in the Mediterranean Sea with hundreds of these poor migrants trying to reach the other side of the pond to survive the harsh reality of life in the desert of Africa. The best one of these has borrowed the 150 or 200€ from different friends and family to make that dreadful journey to better life. My heart goes to them.
I think I can guess what you are going through, it's very tough and very difficult moment. You are strong man. But every human needs that window of fresh air + rest+ re-gather your thoughts and energy. (as we say ; recharge the batteries) refule then make new decision based on your feelings and experience. Don't think of what anybody else may think. That's their problem not yours. You do what you think is 💯 % right and safe for you. We are with you hundred percent and we love you for what you are . I wish you the very BEST ✌❤🍀. From Moroccan in Ireland 🇮🇪.
I'm a lot older than you Ryan and I finally learned a few years ago that, as much as I want to, I can't control everything. In reality, I can't control much of anything at all, except how I react to life's challenges. Good luck with your decision. There is no right or wrong answer in this situation for you.
Great comment! 😀 Only those in a given situation can fully grasp the enormity of the situation. Folks these days tend to immediately judge, without the experiences to form the judgement. We all start somewhere.
@@sailingbs2364 & quick judgments very seldom are the right ones
Good way of looking at it. For me I don't think control has ever an issue - I've never felt like I had any. However, the things I could do seem almost limitless. (The lack of control is kind of a plus. You can start out to do something, and what ends up happening will always surprise you - and usually it turns out okay. (As I've gained more experience I've been more likely to just get started because so far the results have been good and nothing really bad has happened.) Five years ago when I was backpacking around Japan I took a wrong turn and turned a 7 mile hike into a 14 mile hike. I had to hitchhike on a nearly empty back road to make it to the last bus. My girlfriend in a message said, "What if you hitchhike and no one will pick you up?" That's kind of a control question. (I've definitely tried hitchhiking in places where no one will stop. You just have to keep walking.) My response was, first, I guess I'd spend the night under a tree. She pressed me and then I said, well, when they start finding foreign corpses along the roads with skeletal thumbs out I'll have a reason to worry. So crossing the Atlantic? Ryan has the skills, the experience, a good boat, great equipment. What if there's no wind and he's low on diesel? Just have to wait for wind. Storms and rocks kill sailors, doldrums kill horses.
@@WillN2Go1 One thing ive learnt after many 1000s of miles cruising is 'Dont have a time table' Nature doesn't .
@Charles White There are obvious times one doesn't sail in areas , Though with modern weather info now that is becoming more reliable even that is possible .
Ryan, as someone who also faces chronic anxiety in my life, I have so much respect for you and for how you acknowledge and face your emotions. I honestly think that your sensitivity and openness about it shows incredible strength and resilience. It's HARD to be like this! Not everyone will understand that. The fact that you just sailed 1,000 km across the ocean would be amazing even if you didn't struggle with anxiety! I think sailing is like a form of exposure therapy for someone like us. "Oh, you're scared of not being in control? Here's a completely unpredictable life experience that you have to grapple with... ALONE, in the middle of a wild and changeable ocean." If you weren't scared, or experiencing a whole raft of varying emotions, I'd be worried about you, and I might think you were shut down, emotionally.
Coming across a group of desperate, fellow human beings, lost on a tiny boat in the vast ocean SHOULD shake a person and their values to the core. If it didn't, how could you learn anything? While the experience was terrible for everyone involved, you helped save the lives of all of those people. It's an opportunity to do some deep thinking about what your purpose is, what it means to sail the way you and Sophie do, what it means to have privilege.
These are important discussions to have, and the fact that you're willing to have them, publicly, and be vulnerable this way, is such an immense gift to your followers. I feel so grateful for your (both you, and Sophie!) integrity and honesty in this situation.
I used to be a first aid attendant on the fireline of wildfires in BC, Canada. While I only occasionally encountered people in life-threatening distress out there, it seemed like every time I recertified my ticket, almost immediately afterwards I'd find myself in the position of being a first responder to a life threatening situation with a member of the public. Car accidents, heart attacks, stuff like that. It inevitably shook me deeply. I'd walk away, shaken, but happy that I could help, then have a complete breakdown, either later that day, or even a few days later. Don't underestimate the impact of these kinds of events on your psyche, or their value to you in the opportunity to learn from them. I think it's a beautiful thing to see someone question their values after a life-changing experience - it shows strength and true growth as a person. The support, love and compassion that you and Sophie show one another is also beautiful, and something I feel so lucky to witness here. Thank you so much, both of you.
Well said Jen. Many of us suffer with extreme anxiety - a condition that is absolutely diabolical. Unless somebody has felt their anxiety turned up to level 11 for days on end they couldn't possibly comprehend how hellish it is. Dear Ryan is a very advanced, sensitive soul, a thoroughly decent man who anybody would be delighted to count as their friend. This sad event heightened his anxiety to a colossal degree, and quite possibly he had no meds to turn to. I can't imagine the absolute nightmare he suffered, but I truly am glad he was able to get to dry land as quickly as he did. Bless your dear heart Ryan, a huge amount of us empathise with your distress, and feel your pain. There are far more sufferers of anxiety disorders than at first it appears, and we are all on your side you dear man.
As somebody who's battled with anxiety there's a strong agree from me. It made my life so miserable I ended up O'Ding because I didn't see a way clear of it.
It's a very real thing and it is utterly crippling, it'll leave you in situations where you can't even begin to think straight. It's like the world turns backwards and at it's worst it'll seriously alter your perception, making objectivity impossible. It's bloody awful.
What I've discovered in recovery ( I'll occasionaly have periods where I'll lapse and stop taking care of myself and it will creep its way in) is that most of us take the first step - we acknowledge it, we share our state with the world and we ask them to bear with us.
But then that's all we do, we need to be comfortable with it, so we ask for understanding.
What I discovered (and everyone's mileage may vary) is that when I stopped at this point myself, I was keeping it at bay, but not building resilience and preventing the next disaster from throwing me off. I was just treating the symptoms. So, when eventualy things went to shit again I'd raise my flag, ask the world to bear with, acknowledge it and regain my comfort.
And this is OK. It's a real thing, it's awful and sometimes this is all we have the energy to do.
BUT!
My real wins didn't come until I started addressing myself. Yes. I have anxiety. Yes, it tried to kill me. Yes, it's hard. But what am I doing to address it? What ownership am I taking in minimising it? Am I holding myself to account?
And the answer was no. My life was filled with microstresses. I was disorganised, so I would lose things, leading to last minute panics for important stuff. I was overweight, so I felt uncomfortable in my own skin. I wouldn't go out and when I did, it was in scruffy baggy comfortable stuff. This didn't bother me normally but if I had to go into the office or if I went out to socialise, I felt crap about myself. I was lazy. I put stuff off, leading to last minute panics or generally hating myself over not having done one thing or another. I would set achievable goals and fall short - but I'd find some way of making it a win (at least I achieved X and that's still pretty great), which kept me in a pattern of being OK with falling short. I quickly surpassed just giving myself a break from time to time into making an excuse for everything.
A myriad other foibles that were 100% on me, whether they were caused by anxiety or whatever else - I had the power to change and I didn't, leading to a whole bunch of under the surface stress and sadness that I never really noticed I had.
It took a little time, but those changes were made. I felt generally less stressed about life in general. Anxiety still came, once it's there it'll never leave you, but because I was less stressed in general, I had more energy to deal with it and I won a lot more than I lost. My life didn't change with the acknowledgment of anxiety and respect of the impact it can cause unchecked, it changed when I popped the hood.
I've tried to share this viewpoint before and it often leaves people feeling attacked for just doing thier best, that isn't the intent.
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Ryan,
I'm sure this was a harrowing experience for you. Alone at sea, human souls at risk and people in authority making demands of you, but you need to get back on the horse, because you are going to see worse. The economy is down, so you can expect increased piracy and theft in some parts of the world we are all going to experience it at some point in this life we are choosing. If you let this beat you, it's going to do this to you over and over again. If you give up, you're going to loathe yourself.
I've had plenty similar experiences myself, I've talked people off of bridges, lost friends to suicide because I didn't take action soon enough, worked frontline through the pandemic and watched people as thier last words are just that they want thier mum, or that they don't want to go to sleep. The world is brutal and it will burst your bubble in the worst ways if you let it.
Take a minute. Give yourself a break (never stop doing this but never stop at this) and maybe pop your hood, look for patterns and behaviours and challenge them, even if they aren't directly related. Free up your resources to deal with the next disaster. Most of the changes we can make in habit and thought process are achievable. There's a lot of them - but the upside to that is that they're little steps. Bitesized chunks that you can tick off a list and feel you've achieved something. Alone they're no big deal but combined they'll redefine you.
You aren't seeing yourself excel and you need to. You're already doing things that most people are too afraid today. You are already way ahead of the curve in terms of what people are doing with thier lives. Celebrate it. Take the credit. Be an ass about it from time to time. Stroke your ego once in a while!
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Sophie,
Watching the last couple of updates it's clear that your concern isn't just about what was immediately happening. I got the distinct impression that there was a lot of concern for what Ryan's mental state would mean for your travels in the long term - what else is going to be a problem, how many times are you going to have to put plans on hold and at what cost. The level of support you give is incredible. I admire your composure and your patience. This takes it's toll and it's something that I didn't realise in my lowest points - trying to support somebody in that state is just as harrowing for you as it is for Ryan. When it's safe to do so, challenge him. Make him stand on his own two feet. If there is always a lifeline then there's always the easy way out and that can teach us that it's okay to quit and that, in my experience inhibits people pushing beyond that get out clause.
This is a partnership and as hard as Ryan is finding things I don't really see anyone supporting you. That can't continue. It'll destroy you both.
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Obviously, this is an opinion on the internet and it may be misplaced, but it's coming from somebody who's been to absolute rock bottom to the point of suicide, falling apart at teh prospect of just having to wake up and deal with the day, but who has climbed out again, who puts a lot of effort into never falling back into that hole. Some of the points of view I've expressed are unpleasant, but they're not intentionally callous, it's just honest words, designed to challenge.
Nobody is on trial for who they are, but sometimes amongst the support there needs to be a counterpoint. There are no wrong answers, but don't let yourselves miss out on possibilities that only require a little bit of self reflection.
Last year at the age of 36, I was diagnosed with autism. It's turned my life upside down, as going unchecked for 36 years it's caused me to act in certain ways at very key points in my life and the realisation that had I recieved support as a child my life would have been incredibly different has been soul destroying. I've had to spend teh last year going over every square inch of how I operate and working out what's healthy, what's not, when the autism is doing the driving and what's really me - but I'm OK, my anxiety is there but it's not in the driving seat anymore - through small changes, some accountability and self reflection.
You've absolutely got this - but only if you get back in the cockpit and get some sailing done. Crossing the ocean is pure hubris right now - it's dangerous in this frame of mind, but getting some solo time closer to safe harbour might be the first step to get back on top.
Much Love.
Very deep moments in here, and some delicate honesty.
I have been running a sailing blog 2006 when I sailed all over the med, with the idea of crossing the atlantic in a 27 foot boat, which I finally did not do. Had similar thoughts.
I decided to close down my blog and since trying to be alone with my sailing, to be able to dig deep into my reasons, without trying to comform to the expectations of an audience.
It is a hard one, the same time, your channel is way above anyone else's, in giving inspiration and information, just totally outstanding. Appreciate this episode, one of the most valuable of all, so much very well done, Captain.
My heart goes out to Ryan. Solo sailing is far more mental than physical. The combination of solitude, fatigue and an emotional experience can be an insurmountable challenge. His reaction to the plight of those refugees shows there is more to this young man than meets the eye.
This experience you are sharing Ryan reminds me a lot of what people who have done a silent meditation retreat have experienced. When left by yourself, without people to talk to, the mind confronts what it never has time to process with life's daily distractions. It is scary and emotional but rewarding. I am happy for you to have had the experience and that you chose to share it with us. Cheers Ryan.
Ryan, I think you're a hero. You stayed with them to make sure authorities could find them and turning back now to process what you experienced is adulting (vs thinking about it alone for weeks). People who feel "normal" after something like that don't have a heart. Respect.
The best way to conquer anxiety is to overload until it becomes the lesser pain. Spoken from experience!
It’s hard to be alone at sea, I now, done many long passages, you have time to do it again, you will be stronger in your mind when you process it good luck Ryan, and your lovely Sophie
How wonderful that humanity is re-opening the neural pathways to strong empathy that had been bred out of us. It was there all the time, and just needed waking up. Ryan we love you mate, even more so because of your empathy for those poor dear souls. You and Sophie are an advanced type of human, not yet common. Thank you for telling us straight from the heart how awful you feel. Please be very, very nice to yourselves ok? Very few people have done that crossing, and even less so with the huge emotional explosion you've encountered. Just be nice to yourselves and consider trying to make contact with the people who owe their lives to you. Something is drawing you back.
Not sure if Ryan was in the perfect mindset to start off. But great respect and he was surely at the perfect place and time to stop a disaster.
I agree. Sometimes you don't realise that anxiety is getting too a firm grip until it has already grabbed you way too hard. He bravely fought on, becoming aware that what Churchill called his 'black dog' was now in charge, but the terrible distress of seeing those poor people willing to risk their lives for the life we already take for granted was too much. You know what, whilst we have profoundly sensitive and empathic souls like Ryan amongst us the planet is safe. I really admire his strength throughout this entire thing. I hope he is starting to see the sun come out again, although I feel it may take a while.
Thanks for your honesty, appreciate that, regardless what you do you will be ok. IMHO
Anxiety and control are a real struggle...peace and love to you!✌️💜
Feel for you Ryan, even without the migrant raft you will be experiencing the emotions of a single hander. After feeling elation for the first week, my second week was really weird and low. Put the two together and you're where you are! Billy.
Big respect man, that looked like a challenging personal journey, and your vulnerability and then courage to share it with us is impressive. That’s what a real man is right there. ☮️
Ryan. Don’t quit today and then regret it later. Get through this period that you knew would be tough. Good luck to you
Deep feeling of compassion for your fellow man is a great strength, sharing your emotions is strength not always seen. I have admired your openness and documentation of your journeys. I think you and Sophie are great people. Balancing your anxiety vs control is a powerful lesson worth reflecting on. Finding the balance will make you a better partner, person, and sailor. I hope you sail on and complete your crossing the challenges may help you find the balance you are looking for. Stay or go I will still be a fan of your journey.
It's a wasted emotion. He helped the migrants, that's compassion. Being unable to move on from it is a handicap. They have their lives and you have yours. What's he gonna do? Track them down and better each of their lives? No, he's moving on and should have pushed through it. People have gotten so soft in the last few generations.
Congrats! You have the heart to go in and the mindset to come out of it - stronger!
Spot on!
What a beautiful video. Thank you so much for sharing the REAL life. That to me is a real captain and man, intelligent and compassionate, open and brutally honest. I think all us little sailors face our demons, not many are brave enough to share it. Bravo
I have truckloads of respect for you Ryan, both for who you are and what you represent. The world needs lots of Ryan’s and may I add, Sophies!!
I am a psychologist with over 50 years of experience. You are feeling the pain that comes with realizing how unfair life is for a large number of our fellow human beings. You can ultimately feel better when you start living your life in a way that contributes to the betterment of those less fortunate. You can decide how you wish to make things better for others who need your help.
Hey Ryan! You have always been growing so much since I first found and watched you and Sophie. I never been able to resist Sophie and now we all can't resist you. Your vulnerability is so brave. Thanks for sharing all! ...making me laugh, and cry, and for all the inspiration!
The thing I admire the most about you guys is the fact that up to this point you are true to your heart.
I have no doubt we will meet and we will good friends sometime.
Ryan and Sophie, this is another very inspiring story. Thank you for sharing. The way the both of you deal with this raw experience and the way to present it here are unique. Thanks to you both!
Thank you Koen. It can be hard in this world to be vulnerable as a man. It feels good to read comments such as yours.
Ryan, your story is powerful. You do you and it will be right. Sophie, your support and understanding is amazing. Together you guys are great. Keep on keepin on. Thanks for taking us with you.
Thank you Steve ❤️
Much respect Ryan. This is your journey and your decision to make. Doing something that might be fatal for the wrong reason is a bullshit trade. I share both your struggle with anxiety and the ups and downs that come with sailing; anyone who doesn't understand this should take a step back and say a prayer of thanks, and try to see it from our side. You have reason to feel super proud, and I hope you are. There is, and only ever will be one you, and thanks for sharing yourself with us. It takes tremendous courage.
Cool that you’re processing the difference between preparing so well that you can control situations, and *adapting to* them as circumstances inevitably evolve in new and unexpected directions… and that’s not an “either/or” choice - advance preparation is crucial, doing that part well reduces to a manageable minimum the range and kinds of unanticipated situations that will inevitably arise also… Good on ya, Ryan… with this time delay, now I’m wondering what it is that you decided…
A lot of sailors hit a mental wall when sailing by themselves for long distances, with some hearing voices, seeing things and everything. On top of that you've had the experience of the migrant emergency, so go easy on yourself.
What you are doing is within your ability. You are a smart guy. I have nothing to yeach you about sailing. BUT one really serious piece if advice I an give you, based on experience and personal observation: DO NOT TRUST CAPE VERDE. If you must stop, dont leave your boat, trust NOBODY, filter any fuel if you absolutely must buy it, and GET THE HELL OUT as fast as you can. Glad to hear you have a friend there. Hope this friend is a real one.
Yes. A profound moment. You done good.
1000 mile single handed sail is a great accomplishment.saving so many lives is another.I’m pulling for you,no matter what decision you chose.just be you.thank you for sharing this experience with all of us.
Fair winds ⛵️
Cudos to you for posting a video with the truth of your journey, both nautical and emotional. Respect.
Regardless of your ultimate decision on the Atlantic passage, your decisions are your own. No need to impress anyone with false bravado, nor to curb your plans to meet the expectations of others.
Thanks again for an honest picture of the trials of an extended solo passage.
Don't give up Ryan !!!! Go ahead with your dream. I'm sure you can do it !!!!!
Otherwise this shattered dream of yours could turn out to be a nightmare that will accompany you forever
I've been following you since the beginning of your CZcams journey and these last 2 videos are the amazing result of so many things.
Congratulations for that.
Who could imagine Ryan filming himself and talking about his emotions 2 years ago? Joking about food?
Sailing and the sea simply mixed you two up.
I could truely hear Sophie's voice through Ryan during the really hard time he has past.
Ryan, being such a sensitive human being comes with the price of anxiety but I believe your intelligence will overcome this.
Hope to meet you at see one of this days!
Fair winds
Great episode Ryan, brutally honest and bare emotions. Thanks for the experience watching you go through this.
Thank you so much for this video again. I am happy that there are people out there like you Ryan who are not superficial and so authentic. At least I feel it this way.
Thanks for sharing all of this. Both of you reflect so brilliantly on choices, persistence, control and the things & people that matter.
P.S accidentally hit the dislike button while trying to like the vid. Think I’ve ‘undone’ that but sorry if it causes problems.
I love it, the brutality, the reality. Thanks for sharing your epic journey no matter what you do.
We really want you to see the joy in what you are doing =) ! You are really priviledged as one of a milloin who can live a dream with big nice boat most of us cannot afford to even think about, sailing around. Do it for us! You have seen disaster at sea, me too. Thats crap. But you continue, for them.. for me. My oceansailing dreams was scrapped by a crap heartdisease.
The sea takes.. the sea gives :) Go on ! Life is challenging at sea, its about surviving, yourself and the circumstances.
It takes so much courage to acknowledge the moment to turn around and go back. Ryan, thank you for your honesty and for sharing your feelings with us. This is not a failure. You were essential for saving people who really needed help and that’s super hard to deal with. It will be good for you to be with Sophie and not being by yourself at the moment.
I am very proud of you. We are here to support you ❤️ Hope you feel better, take good care of yourselves. Only brave people look to the hard times and face it to process it and feel all the feels.
F** those people commenting bs here, toxic masculinity is horrible. Cry when you need, rest, process.
We are here for you. You are incredible, Ryan and Sophie. ❤️
@Charles White lol dude… lol
Congratulations, for the solo sailing, and to do what your feeling say you to do by your own. Always respect your feelings.
Brother hang in there if you need a friend praying for comfort an peace you have done an awesome job so far I really believe you can make it work 😊 state safe an peace ✌️ 💪💪💪 you got this 👍
compassion yes, loving and helping others yes. self guilt because you have a blessed life is is not right or healthy.
You have accomplished more than you set out for. You have saved and changed lives.
I love watching your videos. I know that it's pretty hard to be raw sometimes, but I appreciate you both!! You did great Ryan and had wonderful support from Sophie! Don't beat yourself up, you did a great job in tough circumstances! The ocean is a very unforgiving place and you guys have done an incredible job showing everyone what it's really like to be out there.
Thanks Terry ❤️
Hi, I'm slowly catching up with the backlog of videos. I hope you people remember me, anyway there is nothing I can add now . I noticed Sailing Eva's boat at entrance of harbour, it is that bright red boat with aluminium hull and Dutch flag @ 24:06 they too have a youtube channel.
I just sailed from Florida-Mexico-Cayman-Panama. Crossed the Panama Canal and was about to embark on a 9+ days voyage to the Galápagos Islands. For many reasons, sailing passage across the Pacific didn’t feel right. I told the crew I am not going with them. They were able to hop on another boat. I understand how difficult it is to end a huge goal/dream. Once I came to terms that I am doing this for myself and not anyone else, I felt comfortable pausing my trip to Australian staying in the Americas and address the issues to continue safer and more comfortable. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. I know I can sail to Australia. Do I want to? Do I need to? Will I eventually? I don’t know and I don’t care.
Youll be right , One step at a time , Solo is not for every one BUT the confidence , Joy of finishing a sail solo is hard to beat whether its a 100 miles or 10,000 , You know the boat is up to it so its you that will have to dig deep & decide , You will be a better man for it ever way - Fair winds (Arnt radars the bees knees )
These experiences are the things that make your life rich. They are going to appreciate with time, and you will be able to tap into earned interest on these experiences, and draw on them when you need to. In the end, your emotional capacity has been expanded. That is always worth it.
That’s a true statement…
Have a little faith in yourself ! I have faith in you ! Now suck it up and get going ! I want to see a good vlog in a month or two ! Cheers
I dont know the outcome, but from here I TRULY ADMIRE your decisions !! I sail a baba 30 and want more then anything to solo the pacific!! MUCH MAHALO!!
Many thanks for your truely honest videos! Rushed decision specially under external stress always turned out bad for me. Taking a break seems like a wise decision.
Sound drills demonstrated in this episode Ryan. Thank you both for sharing your experience.
Thank you Duncan 💙
What a lovely, joyful way to cap the video. 💓
I admire you and whatever power it put you where you were for those people was meant to be..... they were blissed to have you.
Good Stuff!!! Thank Eu Ryan 💯💥
Good job Ryan! Solo isn't for everyone. I doubt that I could do it. You've accomplished a lot
Love your videos, your honesty, humor, emotions...all of it...fair winds and following seas mate!
Thank you Anita, it means a lot ❤️
You’re welcome! ⛵️💨‼️
He Ryan, Life and its ups and downs , makes us think wisely and take decisions sometimes not wanted, believe me , that incident of the Migrants was not the ignition to flame your emotions , it is the journey alone that you maybe was uncertain doing it, keep up the journey and you will be a very proud person , not an egoist ! for sure. keep going pro. looking forward to your next Episod . all the best from Zürich
“People who live long, who will drink of the cup of life to the very bottom, must expect to meet with the usual dregs”
Benjamin Franklin
Great video. Actually as you would now know, getting down to Cape Verde is the hardest part of the trip.
New to the channel. Surprised to see one sailing channel (I think) hating on you guys. Not understanding the motivation but such is life.
Oh really? 😅 who was that?!
i usually like ya'lls videos. i say usually, well nobodies perfect.
ya'll just did something unheard of. big time. it's small things that make the biggest difference.
If i remember right you thought you where saving 30 people, but later learned that you probably saved around 300.
yet, instead of risking being wrong, you announced 30 in this video when you could have claimed; 300 and even justified that claim.
now that's integrity, yes it is!!
hence why i like ya'll along with a number of other sailing producers too.
btw: i finally retired and bought my dream cutter. might could see me on the water in passing over the next year or 3. (we'll be covering serious distances)
i first typed this before watching much of the video. you impressed me,..
and guess what, hello world, (thank you ryan ) it takes a real man to have emotions and cry, and even to be good with it.
ya'll make me, and i'm sure thousands more proud.
and another edit:
what's the longest you have been isolated from people before this 1000 miles?
ironically, loneliness is the one thing that makes people crazy (not saying you are crazy, at all). but lack of socialization, being that we are social creatures by design (as are most living creatures), social isolation works most folks minds. so yea i am curious, how often have you been isolated for so many days, and how long has it been?
A very interesting episode this week, I look forward to seeing what you decided going forward. As you say, a big achievement regardless!
Ryan, we're thinking about you! I have to say that Sophie, you are just awesome and an inspiration to me! ~Amy
Thanks Amy ❤️ it means a lot!!!
What you experience today is what will help shape the person you will become , even bad experiences can have a positive impact, I say well done 👍
Realizing your only human. An with that realization you come to a wall. Ryan I'm homeless.. I struggle with seeing this world from the woman who once had an 18 room house to a 1 rm motel with my autistic son an husband... Your realizing your blessed an others aren't... Your realizing life is hard . Ryan it's ok... It's ok .. Life isn't fair nor easy...!! Do what is best for you..not the channel not for the old you!! Your changed by every encounter, go with that change!! Don't spend time on what could have been.. Don't dwell there...dwell in where your going..! Whether it's by boat or not...your fine..be happy with the blessings you've been afforded in this life not everybody has that as you know ...but you do and be blessed and happy for that....I enjoy watching an learning .. grateful for your channel..... You do what makes you better! Hang out an relax. .. You got this no matter what happens...sorry so long you been on my mind all week...✌🏼💗😊❣️
I sail Seneca’s Lake here in Central NY, USA....I wouldn’t sail solo here let alone the big ocean!!! Good on you mate, well done!
Wish I could crew on a big passage, what an adventure!
Anxiety sucks, be good to yourself
Ryan…Follow your Heart…You did the Best…even though ya got yer teeth kicked by witnessing the Deaths…Ya SAVED a lot of Lives👍 Continue to Stay Safe
I think that your sense of humor is overshadowed byt Sophies. MAN, you made me crack up! Just do it, let yourself be in the spotlight, you are FUNNY! And you are absolutely right, you don't ever get over a thing like that. You learn to live with it and knowing you did the fucking BEST is something to rejoyce in. Love you guys! /Catta
Sometimes in life you pursue a challenge with a set agenda, and then the universe throws you the biggest challenge you have to face and embrace. Usually it's not the visual thing which is the biggest challenge, it's that which is within us that is the greatest challenge. I'd say you've just been thrown one of your greatest challenges, which is also one of the most difficult to overcome, and you've succeeded. 😊🤗
And a few days ago I was looking at recipes for flying fish. 😉 You’re doing okay, at least you realized you had a problem before it got worse and you were too far along to do anything about it. Yeah! You now can make an unhurried decision. You now know more than ever yourself, that’s how I see it. 😉🙂 You did good captain Ryan.
Based on my own experiences, I have come to the conclusion that there are two types of ocean sailors: those who have looked Death in the eyes somewhere far away from land and those who have not. It is surely a good thing if moving from the latter to the former category (as you have done) changes one's perspective on the risks and rewards in ocean sailing.
Thanks Mads, this experience has changed us both, for sure!
Come on Ryan you can do it, you are stronger than you think, you have a good strong boat,
I know the Coast Guard was busy but next time ask them to give you diesel they always carry extra Jerry cans of diesel you did a good day you will be blessed for it I pray for your safe trip and safe arrival home to your lovely gal
❤️ ... the way of the empath is fraught (...but noble)
It's too bad these videos are so far behind. Because I would have volunteered myself for free to help him make the passage. I'm older than he, and I feel I could have been a comfort and source of motivation and stress relief. Nothing wrong with knowing your limits, and nothing wrong with asking for help. Best of luck my friends.
Keep building yourself up Ryan. You can do it. In harbor don't go for Alcohol. But keep going. I believe in you. Many do. I mean when Soph is about you are the Rock & she supports. Remain the rock. You can do it & the self estime you gain will be amazing. But don't put pressure on yourself.
Ryan should team up with the old guy from Adventures of an old sea dog....I think the diversity would be an interesting mix
i dont think the old guy would put up with the emotions.
COURAGE.... RYAN.... FAIR WINDS AND ALL THE BEST..... 🥂 CHEERS.....
Never curse about a running engine.
Hahaha 😂 fair…
Thanks for the interesting part...
Yes Ryan, Sailing IFR in actual IMC conditions. Yeah ! Come to think of it, once the sun sets your are sailing IFR. At one point in the Vlog you mentioned that you do not like dead downwind ! I thought cruisers love downwind. Gives you good VMG, isn't it ? or is it the boom flopping the other way that is not desirable ? but then there is the Preventer, right ? Great Vlog. Hope you made the decision to cross.
The last 60 seconds was very well said. Respect.
You are doing great Ryan respect 🤗👍🏻👌🏻
Personally I do not think of it as " bailing out" because plans can change.. and so yours did. But who am I to judge.i think it was very wise to go to land and talk about it with friends. Wishing you all the best❣💨⛵ Gijs and Trudy
LIfe can throw many things at a person, sometimes its ok to say this is not worth continuing at this time. No one knows how you feel or felt during this passage. I wish you well and the sea will always welcome you back…
Ryan, your trip was more than 2-1/2 months ago. By now, you are where you're at, so my opinion of what you should do is really moot. You were the Captain on this trip, and I am hoping your R & R on Cape Verde refreshed you. I look forward to your next episode to see your choice. Btw, I wonder if all those dolphins apparently swimming west to east was an omen? Best, :¬) Webhead USA
Ryan, When I crossed the Atlantic on my boat,
I had two other crew members, they both were very experienced and incredibly capable.
Yet I did not make public my/ our departure, rather we keep it very low key, and departed without any fanfare.
My reasoning was that In the event I had to ‘bail’ and cancel the big trip, it would be easier for me to cancel if I felt less public
pressure about the decision.
The fewer people who knew of my plan, the easier it would be to cancel…
So, if in fact you cancelled, then I applaud your decision to cancel, I know it was a hard thing to do…
Sometimes you have to admit the situation ‘ has ya beat’ and start over.
Good on ya pal!
My advice is ‘ stop beating yourself up’ …
I looking forward to watching your future endeavours…
Regards , Edward Finn
Charles White I don’t understand , how does it clash?
Charles... not sure you really understand the business model. I would suspect your one who believes we make thousands a video, in truth we make much much less than that... to top this no amount of money justifies making bad seamanship decisions.
I was 18 and stupid when I did my first Atlantic crossing - my parents forbade me (but I went anyway) - and after the first 5 days, I understood why - mortality and our utterly insignificant place in the universe is front and centre on the ocean. But it is ultimately a good thing to grapple with privilege and the "why" - I haven't done it solo, but can only imagine that all those issues are magnified by solitude - boat loads of Africans not seeking "adventure," or a challenge, but merely the prospect of a better life, a bearable life - makes the personal challenge seem decadent, privileged and arrogant - even pointless. It's not - at all - but it sure puts it in perspective.
Ryan, you have conquered so much. Maybe consider taking a crew member or two. I support your adventure however you proceed.
The line of orange buoys you could see? How would you be able to safeguard against these if it were night time?
👍👍 ... but think about all you have accomplished in pursuing your goals and the people you have inspired along the way.🖖🖖❤
Being fortunate enough to live in Southern England I had no idea there was another migrant story along another coast, but I suppose they are all over the world, wherever geography or politics separates the poverty-stricken from the inexplicably lucky. This episode will have gone quite some way towards highlighting that fact.
Hey Ryan - Great video, I have always appreciated the honesty in your and Sophie's channels videos. Buy the way - Deciding your doing something for you is OK - It does not make you selfish it means your living your dream...and that is ok.
Just for the audience - I'm sure you know this - The IMO regulations say AIS is to be fitted aboard all ships of 300 gross tonnage and upwards engaged on international voyages, cargo ships of 500 gross tonnage and upwards not engaged on international voyages and all passenger ships irrespective of size.
So if your fishing vessels don't fit that category they may not have it....That is why I cringe when I see sailors relying on AIS almost as a watch stander.
If they are required under the rules, they likely have it off because they are not supposed to be there doing what they are doing. Fishing in other countries territorial waters can be illegal or they want to avoid Pirates as West Africa is a Hot bed of robbery at sea ( Trust me I live and work in Nigeria) - so they turn it off so as not to be "seen".
Glad you had radar and guard alarms set - Safety first.....
Very emotional.
You say you want to have control and when you dont have control you get anxious. The ONLY thing any of us has total control over is ourself - our actions. Trying to control anything outside of ourselves is pointless. Having control over yourself/our actions in the face of trials or setbacks is all we can do. Not a new idea - it comes from the Stoics.
it seems like you have possibly gotten very lonely on this trip. I can understand that it has to be very hard with that kind of isolation.
Please stop your crying and carry on! You did the right thing and saved those people’s lives. Fair winds!
WOW.....Don't know what to say....But !!! I herd someone say, If at first you don't succeed Try,try,try again....