Getting our Beneteau Oceanis 41.1, All Winds, ready for her first season here in Croatia was destined to involve a few unexpected delays. While we have been busy trying to get off the dock and get our own “Sailbatical” started, the universe decided to balance out our stress by giving us a wonderfully surprising chance encounter.
It all started when the downwind sail, which was discussed as part of our purchase contract, fell through. In despair, we put out a call on social media to see if anyone in the sailing community had a suitable sail they were willing to sell.
Within a few minutes, we had a reply from someone in the exact same marina offering what seemed like a great solution. Philipp and Beate had just purchased their Hallberg-Rassy 42, Albatros, and were preparing for their circumnavigation. Their blister was not the ideal downwind sail for their needs, but it seemed like it would suit “All Winds” perfectly.
A Pink Sail and a New Friendship
We arranged a meeting on the dock. As we pulled the sail out of its bag, we realised it was almost brand new and in Karin’s favourite colour for a downwind sail: pink! The deal was quickly done, and a lovely friendship developed.
What started as a quick transaction turned into hours of shared stories and inspiring conversations about the realities of life on the water. Philipp and Beate are incredibly passionate sailors. They are documenting their circumnavigation on their website, Blauwassergeschichten, through fantastic VLOGs and an interactive tracking map.
At the same time, they are writing a series of children’s books about their adventures. The books tell the story of a curious little seahorse discovering the world, beautifully depicting the journey through the eyes of their nieces and nephews back home in Germany: Eva, Elise, and Eliot. It is a creative and heartwarming way to share the magic of the ocean with the next generation. You can find more about the book series (available in English and German) on their website.
A few days after our meeting, we had the profound honour of standing on the dock to wave them off as they officially started their circumnavigation.
We won’t lie—watching their bow point towards the horizon while we are still wading through paperwork and waiting to start our own trip was a bittersweet moment. But honestly, keeping up with them has been a highlight of our days. Right now, we are happily sailing vicariously through their social media channels and the regular WhatsApp updates they send us of their progress. It is a beautiful reminder of why we love this community and exactly what is waiting for us out there once we finally cast off our own lines and hoist that pink sail.
We highly encourage you to give them a follow on Instagram or Facebook so you can follow along with their incredible journey. You can also explore their interactive map, watch their latest VLOG videos, and pick up those beautiful children’s books over at Blauwassergeschichten.de.
Philipp, Beate (and the little seahorse), we wish you fair winds, following seas, and an unforgettable circumnavigation. We hope our wakes cross again somewhere out there in the blue water.
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