Boat Life: It's Getting Complicated

[@grantwing6996]

Hi guys....Fiji has most of the services you need: haulout, surveyor, skilled services etc and its only 3 days of tradewind sailing from Tonga. We have done the trip to NZ many times and it can be challenging at that time of the year. Cheers Grant

[@ottohreiarsson7727]

If you have a crack in the Plexiglas you need to drill through glass as near the end of the crack as you can, the crack will stop in the hole. You can use 1 to 2mm drill then fill it up with Silicone or Sika.

[@jackhall4680]

I did this on my motorcycle windshield. It worked for years!

[@bwheelerlcc]

My wife works in insurance and she says you should be able to get a 30-60 day extension if you request it due to circumstances. Good luck and God bless!

[@jason13533]

My thoughts exactly 👍

[@MrJx4000]

Is it mandatory for sailors to have insurance the way car drivers do?

[@reneemitchell157]

If you do end up coming to New Zealand, we live in Lyttelton (the port of Christchurch) and have a spare room available for free for as long as you need, and its only 2 minutes walk to Te Ana Marina.

[@TheCruisingKiwis]

Kia ora Renee, you're making us proud!

[@LovingAtlanta]

👍Bless you ma’am!!! It truly takes a global village. 🙏💝🤗

[@pipandrewmccosh7302]

Kia ora from Aotearoa New Zealand. Hey Nikki and Jason, we can't fix any of your boat or logistical issues but IF you do somehow get to N.Z we have a car that you can borrow, and a quiet home with fast wifi. We live about 50k north of Auckland in the beautiful coastal town of Orewa. Happy to give you a meal, lend you the car and let you use our wifi. Sending aroha. Pip and Andrew.

[@gonewiththewynns]

Kia Ora to you too and thank you for the generous offer. Tour guide and a meal, what more could we ask for...Laundry 🙌 haha. You know we’ll share as soon as get approved to sail 🤙🏻 Hope to see you if n NZ.

[@nicolemayer1671]

You guys are so positive and giving back to whatever community you are part of is so endearing to watch. I wish you the best!

[@gonewiththewynns]

Thanks for the great suggestions guys, but there's one we forgot to mention. Tonga's borders are closed and so flying anyone in isn't an option. Even Tongan citizens are still struggling to get home on the very few and far between repatriation flights. We're also excited that we donated 4 Uke’s to the Vava’u Public Library! If you want to help, you can learn more about the libraries needs and make a donation here: gofund.me/81b50828 Thanks to all who donate! Nikki and Jason

[@james5460]

👍 You'll have it made in the shade in a few months after you get it all sorted out 😎

[@tlevans62]

What about American Samoa? Get a US citizen who's also a surveyor to fly out to you with your spare parts and new windows as part of their excess luggage. Just a thought.

[@MrRogueriver]

You could ship your boat to NZ on deck direct from Vava'u. You guys catch the repatriation return flight for NZ in March

[@tlevans62]

Also, is it $50k USD or NZ, because $50k NZD is only $36K USD.

[@Barrenchats]

Make strong black tea, no cream no sugar, and put at least 1 tablespoon of honey while it's still hot but not to hot, sip it till it's gone all that junk will start coming out of you just spit it out,

[@garybennett9581]

Contact your insurance company. Tell them to talk to the underwriter and ask for a 30 day extension. Explain the dangers of sailing on a schedule and the dangers of sailing in questionable weather. Blame them for forcing you to take a risk of taking on a passage sail during a questionable season...Offer the one More month of premium vs a potential loss claim...in other words negotiate!

[@Malibu_Dawn]

Excellent idea!

[@webheadusa9377]

Ask for a 60-day extension to provide more time for a safe weather window. Your safety is first priority. :¬) Webhead USA

[@HumbleRoad]

Also, do a short recital for them and make sure they understand you will continue singing until they meet your demands..

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

Insurance companies do not negotiate. Yet I am certain that resourceful and creative people like the Wynns would try that first.

[@Catalina58601]

@@HumbleRoad :-) this was funny

[@spunkycat6144]

OMG. Thank You Gibson!!! I started crying at 18:05. Music in my life (I play Ukulele and am not great, but it is great stress relief and just FUN) is the glue that keeps me together. I grew up on a farm and my family would have a night where we'd all just play music. No radio, we just picked up something and played and sang. It was always Peter, Paul and Mary songs. Yeah, my parents were cool like that. Thank you all for bringing music and means to play it to the world.

[@randallabrahamse8916]

Hey guys i worked at Robertson and Caine building these boats those windows is not specially curved it is normall flat sheets thats cut to shape and when its fitted it curves while you bond it sika primer is used on window and deck surface then the black sika and you use old blocks and screws to hold it in place while the sikaflex cures only when its cured blocks are removed and final seal can be applied.

[@1978Tbk]

Even with a multitude of issues on your plate, you manage to think of others and bring joy to the local children. Safety first and the rest will follow. Praying for you two along with specific prayers for those suffering in Texas. 🙏❤️

[@__WJK__]

[@tomcraddock244]

I have been a follower since you started sailing and find that the “foot print” you leave in all the remote areas to you’ve visited is remarkable!! it seems that everywhere you go you have a way to leave it better than you found it.ie finding medical help for those that need it ,making fresh water available to those that don’t have enough or helping a library grow their musical program.the list goes on and on.you don’t do it for show or more views, it is just who you are.so just keep being you!! Well done 👍

[@cliffmainor4255]

And don't forget about the cat and the animal adopton center! Love me some Texas Wynns!

[@fc1lyles]

... or the Bat!

[@jlennox362]

As much of the world is a difficult place, the two of you bring smiles, support, and make a real difference in many lives both there in the south pacific and right here in Texas. Thank you. :-)

[@jamescox7490]

I always admired you lifestyle till this last video and now I see that even two people that work as hard as you do can hardly keep up to the problems of a sailboat. The average couple would have never lasted as long as you have. Hope things get better for you at a do enjoy watching and living my retired life vicariously thru your videos.

[@michelpaulcote156]

Many sailors buy insurance for "coastal" cruising only, much cheaper and available, and are not covered for the ocean passage part. Most claims are for damage occuring near the coast (grounding, fire, dock, other boat dragging and hitting you...). Few sailors will need insurance if they sink in the middle of the pacific ocean....(not sure this last comment helps...).

[@ProjectAtticus]

What a bummer about boat insurance! Good luck figuring out a solution! You two always seem to research, plan, and work your butts off through every obstacle, so if anyone out there can figure this one out, it's you two!

[@gonewiththewynns]

Thanks, guys 👊🏼

[@verynearlyaboutsailing8114]

Definition of an insurance company: someone who's always willing to lend you an umbrella; unless it's raining.

[@nicholaskeur]

More like "sell you an umbrella"

[@verynearlyaboutsailing8114]

@@nicholaskeur Ha ha. True. Or rent it to you and then put up the rent as soon as it starts raining - or even if it doesn't.

[@nicholaskeur]

@@verynearlyaboutsailing8114 Rent is an even better analogy...

[@goleafsgo8496]

Perfect assessment of an insurance company "Just about sailing" you nailed it.

[@ronbuckner8179]

Legalized Extortion

[@laurence9695]

As a sailor myself, and previous resident of Australua for 16 years, I'd say forget boat insurance, dont stress it, and go to Australia. You'll have more boat and supplies choices. NZ makes sense, but 50k is insane and unreasonable. And it's such a tiny country that you'll have problems getting boat supplies. Consider convering the windows, mmas these are really windows not ports, either plywood on the outside. Not pretty, but you wont catch a wave on the inside. Go to Australia. And your friends already there can help. Lots of bladders of water in the bilges. Fingers crossed for you. Yes, arriving in Australia in winter is not ideal. Quarantine on Gold Coast like Archer is da bomb.

[@RoadTr]

They have a mortgage on the boat.

[@gonewiththewynns]

@Rick Adams they do not - the boat is paid for outright. Curious Minion

[@Purlee100]

Laurence, New Zealand has a very large boating industry and there are many companies capable of supplying or manufacturing the things they need. However, as a resident of New Zealand I do agree that $50k is a bit of a barrier. I think quite deliberately so. New Zealand has been very successful in keeping Covid out of the community and one way of doing that has been preventing people coming here. In normal times we have hundreds of cruisers arriving to wait out the cyclone season, if we had those numbers at the moment it would swamp our ability to quarantine them, regardless of time at sea. While I wish it was easy for the Wynns to come here, and I hope at some time they can, the bar is intentionally set high!

[@jyzilvz]

NZ still prob won't let you in and waste your time and energy, Aus has better part availability and price. There's a Small chance Aus may change quarantine regulations before you need to leave with no hotel required. Will any marinas let your boat in without insurance in Aus or NZ? Wish for you to visit NZ but I would pick Aus for the amount of work you have. Good luck.

[@peterinthegong9437]

Jason, try and get the generator Starter off. They are really not that complicated. There is a high chance it’s not burnt out and just needs cleaning. Yes, it could be brushes . Can you tell us what happening with the starter when you turn the key, what noise? Have you measured to see if your getting voltage to the Solenoid ?

[@Richardfra1]

Regarding the cracks in the windows. The cracks will continue to propagate. One way to stop the progression of the crack is to drill a small hole at the end of the crack. Of course fill it with a sealant to keep the weather out of the boat.

[@tonabill]

Similar situation after commissioning a Nauticat in Turku, Finland, sailing the Baltic and the canals and rivers of Germany, Netherlands, Belgium and France. After wintering in Mayorca, I set out to bring the boat home to Texas. I spent weeks in Gibraltar with no success in finding an insurer, since we were a US registered vessel. Hurricane season was creeping in so the Nauti Lady made it home as deck cargo from the port of Cadiz.

[@kaywarren6788]

You could ask for your old company to give you a 30 day extension due to COVID, and ask the new company to insure you with the provision of 60 days to get the survey complete, because COVID. Worth a shot.

[@davidvanderwoude8130]

Windows, when I was installing a reflective to my windows, the instructions said, Never install reflective coating on the inside of the window. Always install the reflective coating on the “sunshine”.side of the window because the sun’s rays going thru the window and being reflected back out thru the window can cause the glass and therefore the glue to overheat. I believe I saw reflective insulation on your windows on the inside of your boat. That’s my best guess for a Sunday afternoon.😊🌴

[@olbuck]

I'd cross windows off the list. As long as you have more clear silicone, sail on. You aren't stylin' in the Pacific.

[@hthring]

lots of duct tape

[@michelpaulcote156]

We almost lost our 42' ketch because of a smashed port. Duck tape is for lake sailing, not the Pacific ocean.

[@spunkycat6144]

Austin, Texas here, and I went 8 days with no shower, only 4 hours with no electricity, 5 days with no water. I was prepared because I watch this channel and made my 460 square foot apartment look like the inside of a boat or RV for when I do hit the road. I had it good, there were people around me with NO electricity for the entire time. The day it went out for a few hours it came back on a few hours later. But for most people, it did not come back on again. The only way we had to communicate or get ANY news was by cell phone chargers in the car and scrolling NEXTDOOR. This is how we exchanged firewood, food, water, etc. I keep a boatload of firewood outside by my grill and was giving it to neighbors who discovered that their heater wasn't working. I hadn't turned on my heat in ? 3-4 years. It just doesn't get cold enough. I am very surprised that no pipes burst. However, many apartments around me (other buildings) did and the people literally had to move, as apartments are small and you can't just move your stuff into another room (there is no other room). I am single so when the internet went out, I was just sitting. It was QUIET. The city always has a hum of electricity and the roads. The hum was gone. My internet was only out for a few days. Grocery stores had to toss perfectly good looking food. As soon as I heard this, I drove around back and looked in the dumpster- texted anyone that might be interested and within 30 mintues cars and people grabbed what they could. I unloaded what I got at a corner and anyone that drove by in my complex got free food. It was still frozen because it was literally freezing outside. Now the shelves are still bare, no water. I think other places have food, but the place where I go hasn't had a shipment yet. I have lots of dried food (Asian and Indian stores helped me rethink the way I shop and I have been doing it that way for years now). But honestly, this channel (I think it was this one, or another where you- or them had an episode of how to store water, how to wash items, how to bathe). If not, please make a survival kind of video, because now we need this kind of stuff.

[@alasdaircross7174]

I just watched 3 episodes of your travelogue and it bought back fond memories of Tonga for me. I'm British and my parents spent 4 years working in Nukualofa in the late 80's. I went out to Tonga when I was 18 and spent a magical 6 months surfing, diving and generally chilling. I visited Vavau for a few weeks and it was a lot less developed then - truly a paradise. Good look with your travels and keep up with your positive attitudes, it's incredible how far you've come.

[@SailingDoubleTrouble]

Yep , passage to NZ at this time of the year is dicey ( as much as we would love to see you here 😊) . We’d pick Fiji . Vuda ( where DT is currently residing ) could do a haul out and you should be able to get a survey done there . We also found that parts and skilled labour are much more available than in Tonga. Give us a shout if we can assist . Currently in NZ but flying back to DT in late April ....

[@cdog5019]

Hi guys, love your honest blogs on cruising, so refreshing amongst all the glossed over sailing families. Have crossed the Pacific on our cat this season. Recomend 12v watermaker, no question, ( we sold our 230v bought a spectra 12v)can run it 4 free all just on solar and u have a great solar set up. Also, we sailed to NZ. I would suggest Australia. Huge country to sail around and amazing coast Nicer sail too, can b v rough on approach to NZ then nowhere to go after. Don't need to commit to $50k either and top boatyard in Oz. We also had same insurance issue as you, got cover from local NZ company. No survey required. Will be aussie brokers who will cover US yachts. Good luck

[@jeremykamel9655]

Take the starter off and take it apart. Might just need to lube it and clean up the commutator ring. Will your water maker run from the inverter? If so then you can start both main engines and to help keep your 12v battery voltage up while your water maker is running?

[@christorrance2876]

Louie Armstrong!!!! The best.

[@1cjherrington]

Your so calm for all that's needing repaired. Cute concert thanks guys. Feel better soon

[@janeconnors1807]

Your smiley faces and positive attitudes will get you through anything that's thrown at you. Hopefully I will learn to be more positive too. Lovd your life, hard graft and all x

[@davethornton9556]

My mother always had a little painted picture hanging wall, of 2 people out in a row boat in the middle of open water. There is a storm on the horizon . The first one said Pray to God a storm is comming . the 2nd one said to the 1st, yes you are right but let's do that while we row to shore !!!! just saying :)

[@nigelappleton2963]

I can’t help with the weather or sea conditions but if you open a just giving page I would happily chip in for the boat repairs. You have become very important to my sanity during this lockdown and I would hate to loose you.

[@GLOSATX]

Thank you for the shout to TEXAS! It's been crazy here. One day at time guys y'all will get through it.

[@Jannm]

Keep tieing that knot and hanging on! You guys are truly making the world a better place for us all with your optimism and stewardship. It will work out, the universe is listening.

[@billhanna8838]

You could always pick your weather to go to N Minerva then take the next high to reach NZ , Give you extra days at sea & Play it by ear on the 50K BS. A cruise around the North Auckland area in Spring & even winter is probably better than most places at the moment . Doo daa de da da Boo

[@benfinch6209]

Considering all you’re doing for the island, and the library...maybe you’re exactly where you’re suppose to be right now. Great videos as always!

[@susanclark9958]

Hey this is Wiz,. We met you in Tonga when we were cruising with Zatara. are in NZ now. For the size of your project list I think you would happiest with the NZ option. More bang for your buck here than AUS for sure. Basing in Whangarei for the work is super convenient. You can walk to the equivalent of a West Marine, Home Depot, radio shack,etc. Good trade specialists.

[@Steve211Ucdhihifvshi]

Why more bang for buck than Aus? Currency exchange rate wise? Seems like theres more options here in aus then there? Maybe im a bit biased being aussie though? 😄

[@bobfox321]

Louis Armstrong, nicknamed Satchmo or Pops, was an American jazz trumpeter and singer from New Orleans, Louisiana.

[@jimmarshall5453]

Bingo.

[@martha4136]

So sorry all this is happening, do wish you the best. I miss your RV, your Motorhome travels.

[@techmeister3208]

We don't have any solutions but do have a suggestion. Heavy duty alternators on both engines. Redundancy, fewer parts, more space, then maybe 12 volt watermaker. Q - Boat manufacturer have replacement windows? Feel for you guys. You're an inspiration for KOKO. Fair winds

[@dottieburton5501]

love hearing you two sing it was awesome can't wait for the next time

[@AverytheCubanAmerican]

I think you should try Fiji even though you prefer Australia or New Zealand they still have those services and it's nearby. I don't think it's worth the risk to travel to Australia or NZ, especially since it can be challenging this time of the year. I think another option you should consider is American Samoa, since you ARE a US-flagged vessel. And the territory is also nearby. Pago Pago harbor has a shipyard that offers those services

[@bhclark6128]

It's a 10 for your first recital!!!

[@AMentorway4u]

Run the boat and re route the power to the water maker. If you need 110 v ac. Power it through the inverter.

[@brentjohnson6654]

Yes in Texas we had quite the week. We live in north Texas (east of Dallas about 40 minutes). We had -3 F and one week later +75 F. We could have used a generator or battery backup. I have lived here for 45 years. I grew up in northern Minnesota and have had -40 F outside. Never have I lived with +40 F inside. We are contemplating backup solutions with more interest now. Hope you have good luck with insurance. Lots of money!!

[@lipsee100]

As MP said "A spoon full of honey helps the medicine go down" keep smiling things can only get better.... Hopefully!!!!

[@angelatutino6789]

We have a saying at home : where there’s a will there’s a way! You will find your way! ❤️❤️❤️ Plus Nikki, you look amazing, beautiful and at peace. Being at sea on Curiosity in the South Pacific is doing wonders for you! 😊P.s.hubby would like to know, if it would be an option to use an inverter to run the water maker? ❤️🇨🇦❤️

[@dircery]

What about Hawaii? It is about 2.5 weeks of sailing, since the cyclone season is done in the northern hemisphere you may be able to leave sooner, and while it isn't main land you may be able to get more goods and services than on the smaller islands.

[@wendyweaver8749]

dircery - Posted by the Wynns about three hours after your comment: " Hawaii is much further away and the wrong direction. It would require well over a month at sea, sailing against the trade winds. Not something one takes on in a comprised vessel."

[@simoneclarke5104]

You are both such beautiful people giving back to the communities you visit 🥰❤️, love you guys!!

[@tonyhalahan5199]

Nice to see you guys. So sorry about your boat windows and the generator....and concerning the insurance...thanks for reminding us, we will undoubtedly have problems ourselves...better check right away.!!

[@james5460]

You know, if you're adventurous, Thailand isn't all that much further than Australia. Okay, maybe twice as far. But they have superb facilities there and among the lowest prices in the world. Something to consider.

[@werner1]

Drill a hole where the cracks stops to stop it from spreading but obviously you need to be able to seal the holes with silicone or water resistant tape, I did stop a lot of cracks in plexiglass / perspex from spreading but not on a boat and it was not in contact with water, sorry good luck!

[@stevewainwright3344]

Don't drill holes. Just DUCT TAPE!

[@48whodat]

Super glue and baking soda

[@Stoic-of-Rome]

As for sailing to NZ, with regard to the minimum NZ$50,000 works spend requirement I think that could suffice as estimate from overhaul facilities. I think you can legitimately later transpose a big chunk of the labour content from the engineers to yourselves once in-country. Also why do you need to register the boat in USA? Re-register to another country perhaps.

[@mlua02]

You 2 are a blessing everywhere you go, thank you, Keep making a difference

[@mattparkin7353]

Pull your starter motor off the generator. Pull it apart and use a scotchbrite dish scrub pad to clean the commutator. Additionally if the brushes are worn you should be able to fi d some similar in Tonga, then put it back together. Wind instruments, use a multimeter to see if your getting a voltage at the wires inside before scaling the mast, obviously check when its windy. Check in Dc & ac.

[@christineschulenberg8412]

I was wondering, if you choose NZ, could you count your time/labor as part of the $50,000, in essence "paying yourselves." I would imagine that your time/labor has to be worth a substantial portion of that amount.

[@rogerlehoux683]

“There is an old joke that say the best two days of a boat owner’s life are the day he buys his boat - and the day he sells it.”

[@MichaelGroenendijk]

That doesn't sound great 😄

[@jonathanbell5561]

My uneducated gut is your insurance survey will likely require yet more fixes or updates getting even closer to that $50k anyway. I would take the safer but maybe more expensive option. After all your work a nice get it all done in NZ will remove stress. Love your videos!

[@slagdemon]

I agree. Both options presented were not ideal, but the safer one would be the more expensive one, and in the long run, appears that it will make the most sense.

[@2Travelis2Live]

You guys have done many kind things for others, contributing to and educating about the communities you visit. Maybe you or someone else could set up a go fund me page. I mean to get you closer to that $50,000. Just a thought.

[@terrycrane6468]

@@2Travelis2Live I'm in on that, I would give to the go fund me or donation site. I think the window repairs alone are going to be huge anyway. Investing in repairing the boat is like putting money into your business...and this is your business and it will be okay. Sending you great intentions for miracles to unfold for you both.

[@sgilman1985]

Yah it’s time you get out of Tonga and get some depot level maintenance. You have slow rot occurring and logistics are going to keep You from moving on soon....gotta get to New Zealand and just get it done at this point.

[@johnblackwell7717]

10!!!! For the performance. 500!!! For the attitude 👍😎👍. And I am with Gary below, get an EXTENSION!!!!!!!

[@SailingGargoyle]

Thank you again for such a real look into your lives. We were in a similar situation while in the Galápagos Islands in October. Our decision was a radical change and we went to Panama to resolve a similar list of mechanical issues that had piled up after 18 months cruising in remote locals. It took us a month but in the end our boat is better than we departed Vancouver. You just can't beat easy and fast access to parts as well a great mechanic at Vista Mar. We're now in the Cayman Islands contemplating were to go next as well. Whatever you decide, we'll be along for the ride. Good luck!

[@hilarypace2529]

Legendary Louis Armstrong. Hoping your insurance company comes on board with a months extension.

[@glennedwards1449]

Yes his collaboration's with Ella are simply the best music in the world.

[@patwilliams3364]

I was thinking maybe Louis Prima

[@SailingABSea]

Your video is very timely for us and some decisions we're making. You just confirmed much of our thoughts about the logistics of the Pacific. We hope you get that weather window you need. 👍

[@AannshaJones]

And we also hope you get better soon Nikki xx

[@harterbob]

Boat life isn't just complicated; it's expensive. We've owned two yachts: a 38' monohull sailboat and a 34' power catamaran. Now we've abandoned boat life for rv life and own a 35' diesel pusher, so exactly opposite the path you took from rv life to boat life. Owning an rv is not inexpensive, but compared to owning a yacht, it's a bargain. You know the saying: BOAT = break out another $thousand.

[@10bbremer]

So much for the freedom of sailing.

[@iaingray36]

A really honest video showing that boat life is not all beaches and fun, it can be very challenging and stressful. I hope you find a satisfactory but primarily safe solution.

[@grob4382]

That new class A motorhome looking pretty good right about now.

[@randallwiederholt4728]

That's what I was thinking. RV life seems to be much less stressful. Always wanted a sailboat, but this doesn't seem to be much fun.

[@jimc4731]

Your comment is meaningful, but remember that even if you get a good deal on say a top of the line Prevost conversion like a Liberty, you must still be able to pay for any expense to maintain it. It can get real expensive real fast! JIM

[@grob4382]

🚎👍👍

[@gregtoman7678]

You are over complicating it. The safety of the crew is first. Forget about insurance. Sail when you judge it safe. Oh... conserve water... no fresh water showers unless water to spare! Great show... life's realities!

[@delstanley1349]

Agree. I suspect those without insurance are the ones taking the least risk. How ironic it would be that you must file a claim because of losses incurred solely in the process of obtaining insurance! It would be like driving your car on icy roads when you otherwise would not have to be on roads, just to get to the insurance company's office to extend the insurance that already expired last midnight, and you hit a light pole in route! The act of getting the insurance caused the accident you're insuring against. Ouch!

[@robinstone564]

@@delstanley1349 Their bank probably requires them to have insurance.

[@delstanley1349]

@@robinstone564 > I'd have to check their early videos, but I thought they got out of the rat race and took to the seas. If you quit your jobs with no definite source of future income I didn't think a bank would finance the boat, or anything else. I thought they owned the boat outright and the insurance for the loss of their own boat was optional. I assumed that if you stored the boat at some facility like a marina they might require only liability insurance in case your boat slammed into another, but I don't think the Wynns keep theirs at a marina. I'm not a sailor (I just like watching their videos) so I admit I don't really know, but the way they were explaining their situation I thought they had the option, and a bank had nothing to do with the issue.

[@jhogendorn]

Heya, if you do decide that you want to head to Australia and you head to Brisbane, I can help you guys out with maybe a borrowed car and i help run a large community workshop thats very near the port of brisbane, theres 4 marinas close by. We could definitely help you get everything in good shape.

[@davidcurle7381]

From two Kiwis living in Fiji. Why would you go to NZ for there winter? I am sure than in Fiji you could get a full survey done for your insurance. You could make a template of your window, and send to NZ for manufacture. There is regular shipping between Fiji and NZ. I am sure you would much rather be sailing up in the Yasawas

[@mikeferguson2828]

That’s a bunch of stuff to juggle guys ! We are currently in Kenya on the east coast of Africa having sailed up from Tanzania and we have also been juggling visa / Covid tests and weather coming May / June. Ironically I managed to get a propellor part Dhl’d from New Zealand to Kenya in just over a week which was a pleasant surprise 😊 I agree with some of the others on trying to get your broker to get a months extension on your insurance. Fiji has quite a big boating following and I’m sure you could get a survey there and a lot of things solved for now until the crazy world we are in opens up again. It would be a pity leaving such a beautiful part of the world for OZ or NZ.

[@bruddion]

Hi Jason and Nikki. Would you consider making a donation/fundraiser page for your boat projects? If you made the decision to travel to NZ (which I personally think is best) and sort everything out? The $50,000 is that in NZD or USD? It would be great to help out in any way we could, once your decision is made. All the best, thanks for the great videos. Cheers

[@literacygal2024]

Totally agree! Would donate to a gofundme "boat project" fund

[@parrothead7576]

They said the annual expenses are around 50 grand. Their Patreon donations are over 150 grand already, so why the need for a gofundme?

[@tomharris6323]

@@parrothead7576 where did you get the $150k number?

[@parrothead7576]

@@tomharris6323 i went to their patreon page, took the lowest donation per week and multiplied by 52. That gave me their minimum annual donation in simple terms. I know they could lose or gain patrons during the year and some probably give more than 2 bucks. I was just looking for an estimate on their income. Having said that, if they started a gofundme I would most likely contribute because I enjoy their videos and appreciate the work they put in so that us couch captains can enjoy the journey.

[@luigib9279]

It’s the thing on top of the mast for sure. Start sailing again and forget about all of it (gen and windows and stuff)

[@Steve211Ucdhihifvshi]

Was thinking the same, wasps and stuff often build nests in aircraft pitot tubes, probably the same for wind measurement instruments on boats id say.

[@lourdeswaite9465]

By the way why aren’t you considering the very close American Samoa where they have shipping repair companies and are American. They should definitely have the certification people you are looking for? What am I missing?

[@JohnSmith-gb5vg]

Farther away, in cyclone season! No way

[@nael2770]

american samoa looks nearer and the most important is insurance vs repairs..

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

Thee could be any number of reasons to not mention EVERY available avenue of "escape".

[@GaryMCurran]

The Wynns replied to someone else, American Samoa is closed to everyone, including Americans. No one can get in. Plus, leaving Tonga anytime before 4/1 invalidates whatever insurance they have now.

[@doncampbell3479]

Your followers have given you lots of good advice. Your safety comes first. Delay your sail until the conditions are right for a safe sail. Seek an extension on the insurance. Try getting some parts shipped to your current location.

[@sarascott2217]

You have done so much good from rescuing the wee kitten to helping people get their meds hope someone can help you out

[@richardthomson4693]

Have you talked to the incoming insurance and explained the situation and requested a delay on the survey

[@ARepublicIfYouCanKeepIt]

Have them write a short-term policy, or a contingent annual policy.

[@smiffy5467]

What about a shorter sail to American Samoa, would they have any facilities you need, maybe better shipping from the USA?

[@bobdonna6042]

Just Goggled it there Marine Surveyors in American Samoa

[@wendyweaver8749]

Andy Smith - Posted by the Wynns about two hours after your comment: "American Samoa isn’t open for travel, not even to American citizens. All the islands are closed and not letting people in, even citizens are still stuck abroad waiting to get back home on repatriation flights."

[@obibaddad1991]

I have had my homeowners insurance cancelled 4 times in the 20 years I have been in my house. I know how you feel. Not a fan of the insurance industry.

[@NJ-Cathie]

Seriously!!!!!

[@chevychase3103]

Come to Florida you will love the prices here!

[@enderdragoon]

Come to think of it, I don't know of anyone that's a fan of the insurance companies. I could assume the CEOs at the top might be.

[@normamimosa5991]

Me neither. Deductibles so huge. Why are deductibles necessary at all? Do they not amount to theft?

[@james5460]

Whoa. I feel for you. I was lucky, I got them to buy me a new roof in 2012 and haven't been canceled - yet. We'll see what happens.

[@robertmiller5735]

happyness is watching you guys play and sing !

[@cleeshann1928]

I will give you Both a 10 for effort and a good attitude in dire the circumstances! Hope that you get it all figured up and repaired safely, And of course hope you can get insured before the storms hit!

[@ianb4801]

Ring Pantaneus in Sydney. Yes, I'm Australian and struggling to leave Europe to sail back to Australia, but I found them amazing and adaptable to deal with.

[@dwk5234]

You’ve not sugar-coated the options, so I’ll not sugar-coat some advice. If I were you, I’d put Curiosity back on the hard on Tonga, use wide tape to secure all of the ports in, cover and winterize the boat. Your insurance and weather risks are too great and formidable to take at this point, and everything would have to work perfectly to avoid either large expenditures or a significant loss, and you know how likely perfection is when on a long passage. When you can, travel (just yourselves) to the US to begin collecting the things you absolutely will need to make the journey, like the water maker, alternator, wind data instruments, etc. Once you gather the stuff needed, you can ship them to Tonga and install. Get the boat back in the water in late Summer, early Fall and make your way to Australia or New Zealand for a haul-out and survey. Yes, you’ll be making this passage without insurance, but it will be at a much safer time. I know this is not what you want to do, or want to hear, but to me, it presents the least risky route. I’m a lifelong sailor and much older than you, so maybe too cautious, but that’s my two cents worth. Regards, Don

[@cliffmainor4255]

That's a dang good, well-thought-out suggestion. Gotta be hard for these two to consider leaving this boat AGAIN, however.

[@bigfoot99]

@@cliffmainor4255 Getting back into Tonga after leaving might be problematic

[@danaparedes5613]

Love the recital. I've gone uninsured on my liveaboard yacht for 8 years. Ours are probably valued the same. You guys have good karma. Even if you had a total loss, you'd be fine. Many ways to look at it, but any way you look at it, insurance sucks.

[@petenaylor1353]

Well said Dana. I was trying to say the same thing without writing a book. Glad I looked down the posts. Insurance companies are pretty smart at this game it unlikelihood they would make you whole if there was a claim.

[@cardudeman6104]

I was thinking this. Just self insure. Carry liability only.

[@poruatokin]

But am I right in saying that some countries will inspect insurance cover and may refuse entry?

[@cardudeman6104]

@@IslandKate I was talking about having liability ins only and not full coverage so it’s much cheaper. So marinas would still be covered.

[@ilovepeace12343]

I believe in you guys!! You guys are an inspiration and I believe you all will overcome all these challenges! Keep the dream alive.

[@liannemagness7124]

Great musical performance guys!!! Encore, encore......

[@Lynn-Callahan]

Just an idea - make an additional KZbin video each week. Say do three per week. Would that bring in more money for you to pay for the $50,000 of boat work? Can you imagine how awesome your boat would be after $50,000 worth of work?

[@StreetTruckinTitan]

Just set up a gofundme to help pay for repairs or towards a new boat. Ive seen lesser channels bring in big $ to help in their particular cause? Im sure lots of your viewers would love to help out in any way they can. Peace ✌

[@TXNbychoice]

Definitely would help out.

[@parrothead7576]

They said the annual expenses are around 50 grand. Their Patreon donations are over 150 grand already, so why the need for a gofundme?

[@StreetTruckinTitan]

@@parrothead7576 why not? Money from the blue offsets expenses. As a long time viewer I have no issues with help funding repairs or towards a new boat.

[@parrothead7576]

@@StreetTruckinTitan i see your point and agree that I also would gladly kick in for repairs. Just wanted to let you know that they seem to already be well funded. At least as far as the statement they made about the annual expenses.

[@brentisaacson]

Wind instruments - Mine stopped working. I called in the electrician and he said the problem was moisture in the fitting where the anemometer connects to the mast. He went up and added a silicon type grease to the O-ring in that fitting. All working now.

[@fiorebaruffi5684]

For the problem with instruments, start climbing on the mast and removing the wind station. Then clean all the connectors (don’t use wd40!!) and wings. You can then try it by turning it very quickly by hand to check the cable passing through the mast. If no data appears on the instrument it can be the cable. Sometimes they re-start to function when are put “under pressure” and get stuck with inactivity.

[@owiela]

As nice as it would be to have you come to NZ, 50k is no chump change (but maybe your USD conversion could soften that a little). As others have been stating, go to Fiji, and if worse comes to worst, then like the other's said, let the insurance lapse and get a new insurer once you've gotten your instruments working and can sail in nicer weather. Good luck Wynns!

[@sylvainva2os773]

Maybe rename curiosity for Perseverance 🤣

[@roberttorres809]

Jesus, I got so stressed watching this video! Note to self: Hit the lottery before purchasing a boat of any magnitude and venturing out....

[@KtP370]

This is the couple I follow so I know what all my potential nightmares will be.

[@goleafsgo8496]

The Wynns are actually a couple that are really business savvy, also I would say they are one of the very few sailing couples that I would suggest appear to be self supporting. It seems to me any money they do generate from donations (not video income simply cash handouts) from viewers is shared with the communities they are in or goes to support a cause. Animal shelter while in Fiji and Uke's for Tonga as an example. Even with a solid source of income coming in, they still seem to be spending beaucoup dollars living out their dream. You for sure need to be sharp to be able to live out this style of a dream.

[@michaelhicks8867]

I guess CoViD didn't help ... keeping the Wynns away from their boat for so long ... and making crossing borders so hoop skipping difficult with trip wires replacing common sense ... as if the virus might stow away onboard for the 20 day voyage to Aussie 😐

[@johnmiglautsch4587]

Yes! If you win, you can keep sailing till its all gone (and distant relatives will have a hard time finding you)

[@GypzyJack]

@@michaelhicks8867 ...more especially as the virus drama is 90% BS!

[@themeclothes]

Awesome Finally a story I can relate to with regards to owning a boat. I thought all you guys are out there with no. Lol. As a side note. I just agreed to buy a 40 foot cruiser. Inspired in part because of you guys. I'm going to do the great loop. Can't thank you enough

[@christophermattson206]

You two are a great team and an inspiration to many people. Your positivity is infectious and something we all need right now.

[@LeGridStudios]

Oh and thanks for the shearing of your good time's in a not so good time in the world. Peace and stay safe.

[@nohand322]

Howdy Jason, What's the name of that Generator and spec's ? and does that starter for it has a part number on it ?

[@arielblumenduft3293]

i don't like the idea of you guys going on a long sail or a passage with all these boat issues unresolved, my unqaulified and usolicited advice is as follows: order all the necessary parts to tonga, repair what you can repair, then, let the damn insurance expire (also, try the negotiation that people have suggested) and then travel to somewhere where you can haul out and get new insurance. also, if everything else fails, let us know what insurance company that is and we'll let them know our thoughts.....

[@kevinfisher1345]

While you are perfectly entitled to express your thoughts to an insurance. That will not be doing them any favours (besides the point you are not even a potential client so doubt they would listen much anyway). Did you not hear them say there are very few options getting boat insurance for americans these days. This is an issue that has been developing for several years now. So I am sure Wynns consider themselves fortunate just to find one willing to cover them. So yea lets piss off one of the few remaining options they have. But more importantly the issue at hand is a common practice with most if not not all boat insurance. They commonly request a haul out and boat inspection for any new boat insurance. Plus most also will typically request this every 'x' years to renew as well. For good reasons.

[@arielblumenduft3293]

@@kevinfisher1345 well, it looks like you are the one who hasn't paid attention, their current insurance providers already told them that they will not renew their insurance policy, so who cares? and yes, i agree, i am perfectly entitled to express my opinion just like you are entitled to be an insufferable smarta$$, i just wish you got the facts straight :)

[@kevinfisher1345]

@@arielblumenduft3293 I never said their current insurance didn't tell them that .... So Wtf are you talking about? I was talking about another insurance that they are trying to get, the same that others they know have, such as Zatara, etc. Their current one is dead and dusted, it is past history. Or soon will be when it runs out and expires. One should not focus on the past but the present ... you know the one that they are trying to get a surveyor for so they can get a new current policy with a new insurance provider. And this is what YOU pretty much implied as well with your "travel to somewhere where you can haul out and get *new* insurance. also, if everything else fails, let us know what insurance company that is and we'll let them know our thoughts....." (my bolding for emphasis). So again I have to repeat WTF are you talking about with their current insurance mate? Why are you raising that up when even YOU were talking about the hopeful new insurance company? Sorry mate but I got all my facts correct.

[@arielblumenduft3293]

@@kevinfisher1345 tl;dr, get a life, meet new people, maybe get a pet :D

[@kevinfisher1345]

@@arielblumenduft3293 So in other words you can not answer my question(s) I see. Instead lets try to attack the character. I have a pet and have had plenty of lives living all around the world. I was pretty much thinking the same thing when I read your OP.

[@jrremerable]

Hauled new power line to Austin out of Phoenix. Getting a big upgrade with 200,000 miles of new cable. It's getting better.

[@Malibu_Dawn]

We are glad to hear it, Justin! America is pulling for Texas!

[@lauriefrancisco1084]

First, I haven't been watching enough of your videos and not sure why because you're delightful. As a single senior female who wants to transition from a landlubber to a liveaboard, this video was both informative and really scary! There is SO much to consider. I read some of the other comments, and there are some really nice people offering help. Wishing you the best of luck in getting the problems ironed out, and I'll be watching your progress! 🤞👍

[@richardboody6709]

Great video and what a wonderful feeling it must be to give the library your gift