The progression

Our first loved yacht 
- double diagonal ply glassed over

There was a slow and steady progression from dinghies to our much loved previous two yachts. A 24' then a 32' taught us the basics. Along with NZ skippers tickets, we had built our offshore confidence and completed several NZ - warm island journeys. 

2nd yacht before departing to Tonga

Our 32' yacht had to comply with the NZ Cat 1 certification prior to clearing customs. A safety standard on equipment and personnel ability, which is applicable for higher latitude offshore remote sailing. By then I had only ocean 10 000nm experience. After living in NZ and Tasmania, the desire for a solid dependable heavy weather boat made sense, as the weatherman regularly get his wires a little crossed.

Years of work relocation's, GFC disruptions and business travel, was the seed to try something different in life - time to scratch the 'itch'.

The picture that inspired an action

My plan A: It started with a Hobart to Mexico airline flight.

Endless dreams yard

Over 700 unused yachts

 The packs were heavy, with impact screwdrivers, scuba gear and nav tools. Tools I had already used offshore. Very little personnel effects remained with me as I lugged these bags to the various hardstands & yacht brokers. In Mexico I went to three main areas - diving through yachts that appeared un-seaworthy regardless the amount of time and money spent on them.  I was simply blown away by the shear number and poor state of these old blue water cruisers.
 (All of theme looked attractive on the internet!)

Weeks of public transport travel resulted. I had 4 accepted offers, but the detailed inspections meant I had to go back to the drawing board. Crossing back into USA another drastic tack was required....search for a car, then the yacht, it's easier on the back.