Family Has Been Sailing Around The World Non-Stop For 9 Years

The Gifford family left their home in Washington in 2008 to sail around the world. They have not stopped since. We met up with them in the summer of 2016 in Noank, Connecticut to learn their story and to see how they all live on a 47-foot sailboat.
Follow the Giffords on their journey.
Special thanks to Aline Escalon for providing some additional footage from her own film, "Totem."
Special thanks to Sophie Boudet for providing additional DJI Inspire One drone footage: [e-mail]
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[@lakeleaf9]

can you imagine being with only your family for this long....

[@karlhungus8841]

Rose I can imagine killing them all with that thing Jr had hanging on his wall

[@jamesbaker1392]

I'd become a murderer lol

[@summerraines804]

No. I love my immediate family, but I also need my extended family and my friends from school, work and church. I also enjoy meeting new people when am out doing errands. Am very gregarious at times, but also quiet at times. But at least I have that choice. We go to the beach often and love to swim and surf in the ocean and occasionally go sailing and on boat cruises big and small. But to live on a boat would not be my first choice. It sounds like this is what they can afford.

[@devanmallory5304]

james baker physiology says you’d get used to it

[@Macsk8ing]

I’d die

[@ryangregohara]

Watching this basically killed my dream of doing it. I’ll wait until my kids are out of the house and have created strong bonds with their friends. She almost broke down just saying missing friends...my god.

[@otomeng5230]

Yeah. This is in itself a good idea, it's just when they started doing it. I don't know about other aspects, but I do think the girls might need friends. I mean, even Tarzan needs friends.

[@kikib8434]

I agree. Beautiful idea and I want to take my future kids everywhere - I want them to be citizens of the world and meet people and make friends from all over our awesome planet. But I think I also want them to have a home base and friends they can see all the time and the stability that offers. But if it works for this family, that's fantastic!

[@ryangregohara]

@@kikib8434 I have young kids now and I think the fundamental thing they need is to be cared for and have stability in their life. As they get older though it will be important for them to learn how to develop deep bonds and relationships with others that are forged over years...not week long surface level relationship. Without that I don’t think they can find happiness and empathy as they age. So my goal isn’t to raise kids....it is to raise my kids to be well adjusted, empathetic and happy adults; I don’t think I can do that by having them on a boat for their formative years. I need them to make mistakes with their friends and expand their radius from home over a few years; to learn the value of a dollar by flipping burgers at McDonald’s etc. I wouldn’t toss out the idea of a year or maybe even two on a boat but it can’t be to the detriment of those life experiences.

[@kikib8434]

@@ryangregohara I concur, wholeheartedly. Random sidenote: now I'm mad at you because I've been fasting for 4 days and you mentioned McDonald's and I could kill for some fries right about now 😂😉

[@Darndiddlyarn]

I was home schooled and did a lot of traveling growing up, it was wonderful, I've got friends everywhere I go.

[@kleidjefferson9709]

My parents forced me to live in a sailboat 4 months ago and here i am living in it. And when i saw the comments i felt happiness because they are exactly what i want to say to my parents but i know that they will not care whatever i think. To parents reading this please do not force your child in a lifestyle they are not comfortable in.

[@brettmurphey6354]

That’s so sad i live on a boat and have so many other boat friends

[@rinber13]

I remember how difficult it was growing up in a shared room with my sibling. Now imagine a shared cabin with one bed, and most of the time only seeing your immediate family. Even if the kids have other sea hippie friends, they probably can't hang out a lot. This would be a cool adventure for a year or two, or sailing for a few months each year, but 9 consecutive years?! I would lose my mind and jump off the boat. I hope those kids will be ok. I also hope the parents have enough savings for unexpected repairs, medical expenses, or if some of those kids want to study.

[@SanaVitaYT]

Good thing its not your life

[@eileenmcnichol9657]

Well a lot of siblings share bedrooms on land too. Not everyone has the luxury of a private bedroom if there are a lot of kids in family. However, I agree with you overall about being too close. That is why I don't think tiny houses are good for more than 1 or 2 adults. Maybe an infant but as kids age they want some privacy and being on top of everyone is not that. There are pros to the though in that they are getting a great education about the world and different cultures.

[@farizfasha2310]

A teenager reaching puberty in the middle of the ocean with only his mom, sister, father, must be one hell of an awkward torture

[@redex3933]

Lmao I almost gone crazy leaving my house and living in my cousin's household for 1 week, difficult times I tell you without my sources it's torture...

[@zenithmemes8238]

Sweet home Alabama

[@notyourfriend-li7rq]

Puberty isn't like extremely wild of something

[@ritam8767]

@@notyourfriend-li7rq exactly people make a big deal out of it. I'm 16 and have not stepped out of the house for around 14 months thanks to COVID. It's not like I'm dying or anything

[@kv4648]

@@ritam8767 he's talking about privacy. And sometimes it can be little wild but without the need for interaction with another person. I hope he at least has enough internet

[@thelaxlair6727]

As a person who was homeschooled I cannot stress how important social interaction is. It really hampered me and I had to learn at a later age how to interact socially. Hopefully it's not the case with these kids as they don't seem to camera shy.

[@scott4825]

Yeah, not all homeschooling is the same. Some parents isolate the kids. I homeschooled my kids for a couple of years, but it was in a community with a large homeschooling population, and I practically took them on daily outings in the larger community.

[@barlowpenny]

Same

[@EthanRain2009]

lol yeah I didnt learn much in home school, I forgot everything after 1 month lol

[@munix9351]

My nephews were homeschooled and they are the most social kids I've ever seen. They put me to shame.🤣🤣 they talk to everyone. Homeschooling doesn't mean isolating.

[@yoiii708]

U can see that these kids have been interacting with other people from many other countries thou

[@gloriamaggs5453]

Spent 2 years cruising south Pacific.....family of 4...kids 9 and 11 when we started. Best thing we ever did. Came back to old life, and always missed our sailing life. Walter died young, so I was so glad that we at least had 2 years of our dream realized. Wishing you fair wind, lots of luck, and love., Gloria Streifling, Maggs

[@matlanyon8306]

Life is bliss when you're living your dream,just update yourselves daily with the weather and be very careful...Go with God!

[@noseefood1943]

The parents have that crazy hippie glaze in their eyes imposing their lifestyle on their kids

[@griffnull8371]

Really just the dad.

[@MsLouisez]

Doesn't every family? How many religious families have religious kids? Sport active parents have active kids? All at least to a certain age.

[@MA-zg2pz]

Exactly

[@spicysrirachamilkshake8167]

@@griffnull8371 it’s def more the mom lol dad is just sitting back doing his own thing

[@lazycraz6740]

@@MsLouisez 1 not every family even has a set religion 2 This doesn’t make this okay 3 Having healthy active kids is not a bad thing. As long as the child is not suffering in any way it’s fine And believe it or not sometimes it’s okay it put a kid outside of their comfort zone as long as no one is getting hurt mentally/physically because in life you’re not always going to be in your comfort zone (in this case and many others living in the boat is going a to far)

[@chrisandrews414]

Family: "Our kids were growing up fast and we wanted to spend time with them" Kids: "We don't remember much from before we started cruising"

[@jordangabriell907]

It was the youngest kid who said that, so it doesn't represent all of their kids.

[@beththreat5098]

"We don't remember much from BEFORE we started cruising!" Isn't that the reason why they (parents) wanted to be with them? They said they were too busy at their professional lives before, right?

[@chrisandrews414]

@@beththreat5098 I just feel bad for the kids, the parents made this decision for them under the guise of being "free spirited". I would most certainly resent being forced to live on a boat with my family while going though puberty.

[@saulv960]

That literally sounds like they were kidnapped. They didn't have a choice. They are trapped in their parent's dream and don't know any better. I feel for them for being hostages of their parent's selfishness.

[@beththreat5098]

@@chrisandrews414 They're safe from other people whose into alcohol, illegal drugs, bad influence friends, getting into trouble, becoming a criminal, and worst getting killed! Just my cent!

[@DL-idk]

I've heard of another family doing this. The difference is that the parents started when their daughter was a newborn or a toddler and they went back to land when she was 8 so that she could go to school like other kids.

[@happysoul2692]

This is a good idea

[@ramen_9588]

That is much better compared to this family. They have no common sense whatsoever. The three children are literally isolated from society in the middle of the sea. Really feel bad for them.

[@fakeaccount704]

Even 8 is too old

[@gsiya4023]

@@ramen_9588 chill bro I just hope people are in on it

[@gsiya4023]

@@fakeaccount704 nah works

[@ui8087]

Lmfao this is the most depressing thing I’ve seen in a while. The son’s guitar playing at the end sums it up best.

[@billmiller2051]

Lol ! Out of tune guitar, out of tune family.

[@AiDOS__]

People don't realise that every destination you get to you meet other families with children in similar age groups and they explore and play together all the time. It can get a bit lonely or frustrating occasionally but not for long. Usually great people around the corner and a lot of families stick together as they sail the world so they always have their interactions plus the new people they meet along the way. The children and teens I've met that are doing this are on average the most balanced, responsible, creative and fun to be around! Very switched on and smart too because they are engaged in everything from bartering, dealing with different cultures, cleaning the boat inside and out, repairs and maintenance onboard, and involved in real life risk assessment as the things they do tend to have higher consequences than your kid playing in the back yard. Until you've successfully brought up a perfect adult I don't think anybody can say that this is a negative experience for them.. just different.. but with a lot of experiences and lessons that most adults will never even get to experience and learn!

[@quickgirl80]

I agree with you. I can’t believe all the negative comments. Normal doesn’t = better. Traveling the world is a once in a lifetime event that very few people will ever experience. They’re blessed to be able to share that with each other.

[@toomuch4em]

Parents seem excited..the two daughters dont seem so happy.

[@XxcrunxXx]

toomuch4em image having to share a bed with your sibling

[@koushikpaul5957]

@@XxcrunxXx for 9 years+ as well. that's torture

[@archelevine]

@@koushikpaul5957 i share a bed with my sis for 14 years now. Let me say, its in a way good and bad at the same time. Its not really torture but it makes my antisocial self the closest with her out of all of my family member

[@omfriend]

Daughters are never happy..... That's why you get rid of them by marrying them....

[@akash_4769]

@@omfriend 👀

[@stevedunn2635]

Wife has aged 20 years in less than 10, cries about missing friends, son is wishing he had some friends. Great job!

[@VincentVincent_89]

Lol and you can tell the girls don’t like it whatsoever

[@extra8088]

Yeah, I don’t think this is very good for all the kids.

[@CastleBrookKrew]

First interview I thought "wow that little girl looks super unhappy" but you never know.

[@glebsokolov9959]

They don’t even have separate rooms... And their son is a teenager

[@vogelvogeltje]

Yeah cause I’m sure you can tell everything about them from this 6 minute video.

[@tiararoxeanne1318]

Sincerely wish good luck for the family. May God bless abundantly and protect them always🙏

[@JR-kv6ez]

Imagine a guitar being one of your only sources of entertainment for the past 9 years and still being THAT bad at it. Lmao.

[@billmiller2051]

Still can't tune it .

[@Bigand788]

That lady was slowing realizing this isn't the life for her

[@Caocao8888]

She misses the burly Mexican gardener, Jesús.

[@nasifulhuda31]

I can definitely tell that

[@jjnelsonnc]

Yeah, BIG MISTAKE, THOSE KIDX WILL HAVE PERSONALITY DISORDERS, PRISIONERS SERVING CRIMINAL PUNISHMENT HAVE MORE ROOM, ..IMAGINARY LINES, NO RETIREMENT SECURITY, SELFISH

[@multihullminion9201]

Yah she would definitely be better off in normal society with her kids under constant peer pressure to burn in materialism and do awesome things like ecstasy, cannabis, graduating to speed, amphetamines through college and onto the oh so open minded thinking of good corporate slaves with nooo recollection of such a savage upbringing. Yes I’m sure she is feeling the pain of not being able to see her open minded self sufficient technically enlightened ecologically minded descendants not burning in hell with everyone else completely ignorant and oblivious to creating their own reality. Keep the hate coming people like this are far to in tune to care. Peace unto them and long live this ancient tradition

[@duragkev]

@@multihullminion9201 amen.

[@anuradhapriyankara5226]

This is a dream come true for adults, but a terrible way to grow up as a kid

[@Herr_Kommissar]

That’s not true

[@prhasn]

It is not though, I would have killed to have this lifestyle as a kid.

[@mccain334]

Those kids can become astronauts they have the best resume any astronaut can have

[@Jupitor3078]

Exactly machan.. no matter whether they like it or not.. but the point is every kid should have a chance to choose. I dnt see any choice here.. 9 years...!!! Dear god..

[@Herr_Kommissar]

@@Jupitor3078 did you get the choice to go on a sailing boat as a child?

[@DerWutendeMetzger]

"I can't remember what it's like to be on land. I have little to no memories of being in a house." Yep, they fucked these kids up.

[@Top5AutoRepairs]

The burn 🔥 out must be real for the kids.

[@worldview730]

They will probably never go to a beach again in life when they get back to land

[@sm3675]

@@worldview730 I wouldn't go that far. But this is extremely treacherous and I cannot imagine how hard it must be for the children.

[@Debiwood55]

This video is 4 years old....i wonder if they are still out there?!

[@DragonSlayer-yt8ti]

@@sm3675 I’ve been living in a boat for about five years, It’s basically like a house but better/worse, I wouldn’t say it’s that hard.

[@bigshrimp6458]

@@worldview730 the kid said he doesn’t know if he could even live on land, really shows how little mainlanders know about other paths of life. Not everybody thinks exactly like you do.

[@tru_spartan_117]

"Our kids are growing up too fast we don't spend enough time with them!" "I know, let's trap them on a boat!" lmao

[@ziggyo5909]

Tru Spartan 117 HAHAHHAHAHA

[@Injamben]

wish my parents woulda.

[@dylanmccallister1888]

@@Oo7Hola social intelligence. You learn that by socializing with other kids. I just see his immediate family. That's "so"

[@milkbucket2250]

They are not trapped

[@jamiegifford9799]

@@misschicka2831 Really, you got that from watching the video? Actually our eldest just finished his freshman year at a really good college and is now working a summer job in Alaska while we're in cruising Mexico.

[@dimbasz]

This is terrifying. The only one who's really enjoying this is the father. Even his wife who tries her best to keep uplifting smile and positive attitude misses her former life. And I can't even imagine how hard it will be for the kids to socialize in the world when this trip would come to an end.

[@aviannetannis3631]

If it ever comes to an end

[@educaspe5887]

@dimbasz when their parents are old and dying, these children will realized "family time" is better than "friends" friends are just good when you are still teen, after a decade, you will sing, "to my friends out there, where are you now, lalalala

[@Anon-qp3kt]

@@educaspe5887 You're missing the point. The kids are ill-equipped to generate their own income and their family is in poverty. When the dad is sick and in hospital, that's the end of their lives on the sea. No amount of kumbaya with mommy will bring in the money to buy fuel

[@mist3325]

@@educaspe5887 Holy shit dude stop copy pasting this

[@vanthursday]

Did you guys not see them taking pics on land? They literally socializing to the whole world. They dont just stay in the boat, they travel around the world in a boat and visit alot of countries.

[@themightymim6680]

A lot of people here are saying “these kids are missing out, or won’t be socialized”. Do you not see that they will have more world experience and knowledge interacting with other people and other cultures a million times better than any of us. We tend to socialize in small bubbles limiting our ability to learn and change. I think learning in the way they are is a better opportunity to learn, than the traditional schooling and social system we have all become accustomed to. Want to go to Africa and get along with all the locals? I bet you they will be ten steps ahead of you by the time they are 15 than you at 50. Unless your an avid world traveler that is 😂😂😂

[@celestialfortuna37]

how amazing the education the children are having. what an experience of life. they are truly LIVING and EXPERIENCING life!

[@KickAndDestroy]

They should be in a house spending time on the internet in separate rooms like a real family

[@patriciachang8666]

Still they have the opcion to go out if they want and meet other people. And If they have a problem they can not go out and find help, the kids are kipnaped in the sea.

[@michaelsills8038]

😂 this comment got me

[@polygamous1]

You mean like morons? all day on their I phones n PCs? they ARE a Real family n a lot closer together than people living in mansions in separate rooms separate parts of the mansion having hardly any human contact with their own family, the young lad will soon need a girl n I expect he be the first to wanting out n that as the lady said If 1 wants out we leave the sea for me a Great family God Bless them all

[@iGetNoRespect21]

it was a joke you lame asses

[@BobGnarley.]

lool everyone so triggered

[@mightymouse1531]

Puberty must of been seriously awkward for that kid lol

[@mightymouse1531]

True but imagine it in that kind of setting lol

[@Caocao8888]

Maybe he met a mermaid...

[@rewrini4238]

Caocao8888 😂😂😂😂

[@ricobriantalisic8267]

How coild they jerk, damnn ita hard that way

[@sohamchandiwade9954]

One, two, three Turn it up Big wheels keep on turnin' Carry me home to see my kin Singin' songs about the south-land I miss Alabamy once again and I think it's a sin, yes Well I heard Mister Young sing about her Well I heard ol' Neil put her down Well I hope Neil Young will remember A southern man don't need him around anyhow Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue Sweet home Alabama

[@junglekutz5625]

It's always a breath of fresh air to see people who are driven from within. 9 years at sea is a long time, so I'm sure that their adventures have been memorable.

[@sudstahgaming]

I am all for this not only will it bring a realisation of climate to the family and others but they get to travel and meet people from all walks of life and cultures.

[@AndorranStairway]

Seems like a mid life crisis for the parents but absolute misery for the kids. They can’t be sailing on a boat for years. When they do return to reality, they’d very likely have a hard time readjusting

[@sakuranovaryan9261]

Yeah...prolly ...

[@Schtiel]

They've had one of the most unique upbringings out of billions of people on the planet. Most likely got a very good education and huge exposure to different cultures. The difficulty readjusting may well be worth it.

[@AndreVictorGoncalves]

@@Schtiel Yeah, tell me more how being homeschooled in a sailing boat is a "very good education". Sometimes the internet amuses me, this kids have no friends, be reasonable. 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@Schtiel]

@@AndreVictorGoncalves Home schooled children typically score 15 to 30 percentile points above public school students in standardised testing. The parents are obviously interested in education, they have a library of encyclopedias and actively encourage the kids to do art etc. Its hardly an unreasonable speculation.

[@AndreVictorGoncalves]

@@Schtiel The two girls are sharing the same bed for 10 years. They are NOT good parents. They are imposing their dreams over their children.

[@marcias8603]

Mom: my best memories were field trips and this is like a field trip everyday. Woman, field trips are fun because A. They’re NOT an everyday thing and B. You got to have fun with your FRRRRIENDS. You know, the ones you were just crying about. The ones you’re depriving your kids of!

[@adrianpena800]

Well Said

[@artemishunter4242]

Ye pretty much

[@marcias8603]

@mneisbaarI do know what I’m talking about.. I never said I was an expert on transoceanic travel, my comment was addressing the irony of the mother using the argument that her best memories were field trips when the draw of field trips is that they are a rare occurrence and they are away from family. Further, you didn’t have to resort to insult particularly when, A. You missed the point of the comment and B. Your one year on a ketch hardly makes you the expert on the social effects living a transient life on a boat with virtually no private space has on an adolescent.

[@MrBossilini]

@mneisbaar did you just compare your 1 year trip to this 9 year trip ? So you have been on land since ? These kids don’t remember being on land , they don’t have friends. Come on now

[@barbnomi3717]

Friends are overrated....

[@m4gn3tic82]

I’m glad people in the comment section are considerate about the children’s future that may go south, rather than praising on how exciting their family is sailing around the world

[@jimrogers7425]

I learned a lot about cruisers and cruising several years back when I ghostwrote a book for a Croatian who circumnavigated the world between 2003 and 2005. Seeing this couple brought back memories of working on that book and the families he met at sea during this time... the hard core cruisers who lived at sea. Great video... thanks for this!

[@argus4650]

I feel bad for that guy alone in the ocean with his hormones.

[@lyrasimo]

lol

[@jamesahmadpour9001]

Feels bad man

[@seyhayoeun3449]

Sweet home Alabama

[@bulletso206]

@@seyhayoeun3449 Hol up

[@bangmona7972]

🤣😂 you made my day, pal.

[@ramsesalex]

kids, blink twice if you are held hostage

[@sallyhun3024]

LMAOOOOO

[@taser1x]

ramsesalex 👁 👁 ;( ;(

[@Matt-by3yd]

Right??? Seriously.... I’m a little disturbed. If this was happening on land... three kids confined to a small area with barely any interaction with outsiders..... child services would take away the children

[@amenhallelujah9019]

🤣🤣

[@neilcaezar306]

@@Matt-by3yd just a joke bro

[@robjohnson8522]

This is the saddest thing I have ever seen! Those poor kids. Trapped in a small boat for months at a time. Can't go outside and play, can never hang out with friends. Can never form any relationships outside the immediate family. No visiting the grandparents or playing with cousins at the big family get togethers on holidays. No BFF's that you can relate to for your entire life! This is child abuse. Those kids will never develop properly. They are ruined for life

[@michaelwilliams5234]

Pretty dang awesome guys! What a wonderful life!

[@Luca.121]

The mother is tearing up missing her friends, while her children never had the opportunity to actually make some. 🙄

[@cloverbird5785]

So they have nothing to cry about then.

[@helloworld2784]

@@cloverbird5785 Getting to know people and making friends is a huge part of a person's life and their whole being.

[@punchingcrow5486]

I made friends growing up. They're dedicated to their families not friends

[@punchingcrow5486]

@@helloworld2784 School friends are now busy with a family of their own and so am I mostly. Friends mostly fade away to the background

[@helloworld2784]

@@punchingcrow5486 Doesn't matter if you keep them or not, if they stay or not, I'm talking about kids growing up without making some of them. Making friends is a vital part of growing up and an essential part of their social and emotional development.

[@whynottalklikeapirat]

I had a GF once who grew up under similar circumstances. She kinda figured that her own language was "family language" because nobody else spoke it in the places they went to. They returned to her home country about the time she had to go to school. She felt completely awkward around all these new people, shocked how everyone was speaking her language, and had a very hard time just sitting on a chair, being used to hanging off a mast and what not ... even in her twenties when I met her she still felt outside the world of other people and very insecure about herself, even though she was highly intelligent.

[@swety2962]

Poor girl, treat her well, lad

[@whynottalklikeapirat]

​@@swety2962 I don't think she had it much worse than other people just different. She had a unique experience that shaped for in ways both good and bad. It was part of what I liked about her, but we parted ways many years ago ...

[@redditstop1653]

Question but if she went back to school at 6 I think she would've been socially adjusted in a couple years. But if you mean like high school then yeah it will be much harder.

[@whynottalklikeapirat]

@@redditstop1653 there is no hard and fast standard when it comes to these things. I should know - I was a public school teacher for many years. It all depends on a lot of factors combined - what sort of class you end up in, whether or not you have any alternative venues of social exploration, personality and tempramental factors, formative experiences, the home situation at crucal moments etc ... I guess she was a bit of a cautious one to begin with. And bear in mind that many kids may appear to adapt simply because they learned to give off the right impression at the right time. I’ve seen that in a fair amount of kids with parents who’d move around internationally with their job situation. The smart ones are easy to overlook, but really you don’t even have to be smart, you just need the right amount of pressure. Kids find a way, but sometimes they carry some the price of that way for a life-time, being unable to truly settle into places or relationships or form strong, intimate bonds with anything. My then girlfriend was not like that though. she was just smart, sensitive and insecure about herself and what to do with all that input. So she adopted a sort of cautious attitude that might come across as introverted and slightly aloof. She wasn’t really socially awkward but she could appear to be, and I think she sometimes felt that way as well so it was easy for her to get into a sort of negative feedback cycle that reinforced that fundamental feeling of being outside the world of other people. She was not like a kid who’d moved from one city to another but more like one who’d been living on a mountain top or island with only a few people and perhaps a few animals being the entire known population - and then got introduced to roaring civilisation.

[@whynottalklikeapirat]

@Dirty Lettuce True indeed. It’s not so much her background itself but more the fact that she appeared to be unresolved about it somehow and at the time it was part of some of her personal struggles. That could be due to a number of things. Sadly not everyone gets to learn and adapt through experience. Sometimes it’s more than some people can wrap themselves around. Life can be tougher than we are. But she was not in that category at all …

[@NHJDT]

We're a suburban family of five as well and we are traveling the country in our RV. It's been a wonderful experience but my kids miss being able to make friends at school. We will probably settle back down this summer

[@msi8311]

Sounds like a good idea

[@kiimberlyhopkins]

I think the reason we remember field trips is because they don't happen all the time. If ' everyday is a field trip' the novelty will disappear im sure.

[@Mental_Illboy]

I just finally find a reason to do my sister. She looks like you, pretty nice.

[@jennifer_mertens]

EDIT: It is generally accepted that going to school with children of the same age can help you grow socially and form long term relationships as adults(with people you meet as an adult). I did not mean that these teens would still be hanging out with the same people they would go to school with... Original: Teenage years are actually a very formative time of life. Socially, these kids are missing out on close, long term friendships. They should cruise in the summer, and give the kids a break. The adults lived their lives and can benefit from this lifestyle. The kids on the other hand...

[@uncertifiedlinguist8396]

I don't agree

[@tomr6955]

They have good friendship with their siblings though, and people they meet

[@Evil_Chronic]

If you’re still friends with people you knew from high school, then that says you did very little growing up. Or maybe you’re still young.

[@alexagill8237]

@@Evil_Chronic that makes no sense. I’m still friends with someone from middle school and a few from high school you can have long term friendships yk

[@zcaka49]

I disagree. I think you mean if you still hang out with friends from high school the same as your used to be when you are in your 30s, 40s then there are some issues, you didn’t grown up etc. But keep in touch and meet once in a while with friends from high school suggest you are lucky to have life long friend. There is nothing wrong with that. In some case, say you grow up in a small town, if people don’t leave, your high school friend prob become your colleagues or boss.

[@rubyannburrows463]

Those kids have definitely missed out on a lot. If cruising the world is your dream, it's not necessarily everyone else's in the family

[@michaelkensington2494]

Did you hear them say that they like this life style too. The mother said as long as everyone is on board and no one is dragged along. Listen to the whole video before commenting. Sheeesh.

[@Carterthielftw_]

@@michaelkensington2494 idk, that question was %100 asked by business insider and thus, the response could be fake. I don't immediately trust the kids because it's unlikely they have their own opinions

[@fakeaccount704]

@@michaelkensington2494 bro they don’t know anything except living on a boat

[@michaelkensington2494]

@@fakeaccount704 yes they do. They are good kids and are living all of our dreams!

[@fakeaccount704]

@@michaelkensington2494 speak for yourself. That seems like torture for me, and most teenagers would feel the same. I think you’re secretly one of the parents of these children

[@Adixonnz]

My family and my best friend and her daughter spent two years cruising through Central and South America and the Caribbean on a 47’ Vagabond ketch. There were four adults and four children aboard. It really was amazing to “boatschool” the kids. Every day truly was a new adventure and our days ashore were filled with wonderful “field trips.” This video brought back so many memories.👍💕⛵️🏝

[@ivanpeter16]

I know a couple now in their 60s who have being doing this for 20 years long may they last absolutely amazing

[@kingofthemountain4350]

Family trips are meant for 2 weeks MAX. I can’t imagine being stuck on a boat with just my parents for 9 years straight, unless we are escaping from zombies or some sort.

[@glendenesherrene7806]

💯🤣

[@annapurillo2922]

😆😆😆

[@sallylemon5835]

They ARE escaping from zombies today, called Covid. You people can cry a river now.

[@malakitity5799]

IT'S NOT TRIP. DUH

[@cloverbird5785]

Have you looked around you?? It's 2021. Hellolooo

[@staciehenderson6982]

While I believe the parents had good intentions in the beginning, a good thing done to excess can easily become a bad thing and I feel like this is an example of that.

[@sallylemon5835]

Yes the key point is excess, while what they did is not as bad as the way other commenters exaggerated it. Same goes with outdoor social life that everybody thinks as good, but not once it comes in excess.

[@t.m.g3357]

Well said

[@davidslocum9536]

Agreed. Too much of anything is never a good thing. This is cool for a season, but not forever. IMHO

[@kaiwalyaghotkar832]

Yes., year or two in ocean travelling world would have been great than travelling and living for 9 years.

[@wellwouldyalookitthat]

Stacie Henderson well said 👍🏽

[@saraswatisky3119]

The people who think the children are missing out on social interaction are wrong because these children have seen the world, and are learning directly from the experience of traveling with their parents as their guardians and mentors. To live like this requires super intelligence and dedication. It's a family that has taken responsibility for themselves, and God had blessed them with the boat and resources to pull it off.

[@jrbabae]

I can truly say, these kids are lucky to have the parents they were gifted. These parents gave their children the opportunity of a lifetime. God Bless their family.

[@shugrin8096]

2:19 "Every little space needs to be useful" 3:29 "So this is our full set of encyclopedias..."

[@adrianathegoat2730]

Lol

[@freyafoxmusic]

Ikr wtf

[@btkeller93]

Actually, books are very very nice to have on boats that have limited cellular and/or internet access. Also something about the rocking of the boat makes reading much more immersive; no pun intended.

[@wesscat]

Problem?

[@Schtiel]

Yeah books, how stupid are those things? 😑

[@juiceyt835]

*When you realize they're still sailing out there somewhere*

[@outlawjodiewales9295]

Lol

[@KrisRN23935]

I was wondering if they were since you know, Covid-19.

[@crobinson1479]

God bless them on their journey and courage. I really believe those kids needs to be in the real world with childhood experiences you can't get at home.....

[@BigHeadBob]

You can tell how educated and thoughtful these well traveled kids are.

[@Anthony-df4bs]

Kids are getting screwed over and they don't even know it. They're forced to live their parents dream. No friends, no school, and no kids things.

[@royaneekhalil6488]

That's our view but not necessarily true.

[@user-ov2fc5sd1e]

@@royaneekhalil6488 true this

[@peoul1]

@@royaneekhalil6488 my view is kids need kid things. IM doubt that they get it. I can imagine i live on that boat for 1 or 2 years as a kid. More than that IM Going insane, meybe. Lmao

[@batorsagandszerelem4474]

@@royaneekhalil6488 Exactly. Plus, being raised on land in a proper house and going to school like other kids doesn't guarantee a "normal" childhood. I grew up in a suburbia and half the kids in our neighborhood are fucked up: victims of sexual abuse by their parents, into drugs and cannabis, drunk driving at fifteen, eating disorders, you name it. Being "raised on land" doesn't equal "good".

[@gaspayanga5982]

Realest comment on this thread, living daddy dreams

[@bd751]

The facial expression of the first interviewed daughter and the mother in tears when asked about missing her friends tells us that this is a miserable idea

[@MauiXoXo]

I agree. The kids look rough. 👨🏻

[@karlhungus8841]

Yup. Dad is up to something

[@fortie6902]

And the what if the kids want to do something else? I don’t think they can get a scolarship when the haven’t been to school. This is just stupid

[@freaksamungus]

It’s Fortie Not getting a scholarship is all you got out of this?

[@chaosphere3841]

At first, i thought what most of these comments say (ruined childhood, no formal education/future....) but then i realized that this must be a STELLAR Experience n Memorable too AND the kids would ACE Sea School or any Ivy League Marine/Sea Courses and also get almost any n every job in the ocean. A childhood of learning and meeting new people/culture/topography/race/country...... EVERY WEEK is hellava way to be Out There in the World.

[@gizmo8361]

My family did this on a Morgan 41’. We started from Ft. Lauderdale, spent a year sailing through The Bahamas, and another year along the chain of islands (Turks and Caicos, DR, PR, the VI’s) to St. Maarten where we stopped. I had two years of Correspondence Courses but started high school in Sxm. My parents decided to stop there in order to do some charter work with the boat (the Pretty Penny) to earn some money to continue our travels. But we never left. There is no better way for children to grow up. The experiences I had could fill a book.

[@AnastasiaBeaverhousn]

What happened to the boat??? And how long ago was this??

[@gizmo8361]

@@AnastasiaBeaverhousn unfortunately it sunk in hurricane Luis in St. Maarten back in 1995.

[@gizmo8361]

@@AnastasiaBeaverhousn We left Canada in 1979 and sailed for 2 years before stopping in St. Maarten in 1981.

[@markgideon23]

the kids’ appearance tells all how exhausted they must’ve been being 9 years in the middle of the ocean.

[@nslouka90]

Sailing is rather exhausting for an adult just for a day or even a weekend trip, I couldn't imagine doing it for all year non-stop with kids, they must feel like crap at this point.

[@jadelee6555]

This is something that seems fun on paper but not in real life.

[@amantevinluan558]

Kids seems happy and the parents too

[@cr-it5lh]

well it became Their life it's all they know...for the kids isn't normal but pretty weird that the parents are this committed

[@manjack235]

@@amantevinluan558 bruh , the girl almost cry when she said she miss her friend , is that enough of an explanation for you ?

[@meatysmc]

How do you know? Like please answer how you are an expert and know best? Have you even raised a child before? I highly doubt it with your obvious ignorance about parenting. Let them live their life.

[@amantevinluan558]

@@manjack235 then adopt them and let them live wherever you want. What's your problem?

[@anthonypetercoleman339]

Those kids look old enough to be going through the exact same mid life crisis as their parents

[@rowlinzonvaldeavilla3964]

stack 1284 too much sunlight on white skin is not a good combination.

[@BajanNatureMysticDolt]

Best roast of the century.

[@vitasnnamdi4775]

Obersturmbannfuhrer Max ikr

[@argoskugel2013]

In their upcoming " rebel period" they would apply for bookkeeping degree or something.;)

[@upsidedowngravity9638]

Well someone's butt hurts....

[@gungasc]

glad those kid's are living their MOM's dream.

[@jasha7579]

We remember field trips because those were the more rarw and unique things. If everyday was a field trip, I wouldn't remember the field trips, but rather something else.

[@tardwrangler]

Give these poor souls some sunscreen

[@thegingerlumberjack]

as a ginger i agree with both of these.

[@There_is_a_duck_in_my_home]

They look like they are 30 when they are in their teens

[@P_Wigs]

They look incredibly unhealthy

[@mrShinglez]

Fr bastards look sick

[@yenshamay291]

i'm eating when i read this and i almost choke my food. 😂😂😂

[@mcha6188]

Imagine not having ANY friends but just your siblings for 9 YEARS 0.0

[@67stang6]

Llama Nade I was just thinking about that

[@morgansimis1297]

Obviously you didn’t watch the whole video.

[@celestekaminska2766]

Better than being forced to endure the trash in public schools! They are actually getting a formal and life education that will produce a decent human being. Dumbass!

[@nickshelton8423]

Celeste Kaminska doubtful

[@nickshelton8423]

Adeline so false

[@paulc858]

A lot of comments about kids being stuck in a boat. I don’t think that’s the case. Looks like they do land and enjoy company of other cultures. After all they do need food, water, supplies, and repairs. Hey not my cup of tea but if they enjoy it together, I wish them luck and safe return home one day.

[@moonchaser24]

This family seems happy to be doing something outside of the norm. Happy for them.

[@ky9933]

These people seem happy to you???

[@dianadoraen7864]

Fine hair, red skin, both girls seem to be depressed and the guy is not very keen too. Mother misses home and friends. What a journey....

[@elixxirrofficial5957]

@Prince Wojak do you think depression is constant unending crying?

[@dreamer9375]

@Prince Wojak People with depression can be calm too. It's unpredictable basically.

[@broncosstampede494]

NO THEY DONT...HOW DO YOU KNOW THAT!??...STFU PLEASE!!

[@poeticallyblessed]

Shit really look depressing! Messed up the father took his family on this dreadful forever journey smh

[@maxsjoberg788]

Fine hair? Red skin? Depressed? Are you slow? That’s just their hair texture and skin complexion you moron

[@vanjapesic5571]

I go to school with the oldest boy and trust me, he is one of the smartest people in college. There is absolutely nothing wrong with him. Don't judge too quickly. It's a privilege studying with someone that has seen so much.

[@Psyza]

LOL SURE YOU DO

[@naufalanuarrr9643]

You got proof?

[@maxwellbaer1158]

That’s dope af

[@magnumxlpi]

Yea bullshit buddy😂

[@helenbell1715]

Pharaoh little to no education??they are home schooled 🤦‍♀️

[@just_th0ughts]

You guys don't understand, if you genuinely get along with your family, being around them 24/7 ain't a problem at all. You'd go anywhere with them. For people that don't get along with their family, would likely find this suffocating.

[@mrlee9213]

Having social interactions with other humans is one of the four most important things we need to keep on top of in life to be truly living a fulfilling life.

[@seamusredmond8598]

you can tell it was the old man's idea, the mother's just going with it and the kids don't know anything else, i feel sorry for them

[@bobcat2938]

Christ Seamus. Chill tf out guy.

[@seamusredmond8598]

No but seriously Bob no teenager what's to be stuck in a room with there parents 24/7

[@kiwi0894]

Seamus Redmond oh my God. I have chills when I read this. Idk if I can endure.

[@OurLove4Dance]

Sorta of like The Mosquito Coast movie.

[@nabun111]

You have only the impression of 6 minutes and you say they are all unhappy?

[@bernieudo7467]

More like living out the parent's dreams at the expense of the children's future. Enough.

[@nickbaumstein5823]

Facts. Like these parents basically kidnapped their own kids and robbed them of a normal childhood and education

[@nickbaumstein5823]

@@Valyssi those kids dont have a single friend. They'll never be socially normal

[@bmoose566]

@@nickbaumstein5823 as a homeschooler I can say I am more sociable then my friends who went to school.. I'm very outgoing.. they tend to stay in there clique groups which is annoying

[@nickbaumstein5823]

@@bmoose566 That's probably what you think

[@nickbaumstein5823]

@Jim Watson Please dont tell me you're homeschooled or I'll really have to violate you

[@1beachygurl]

Trust me kid, you aren't missing anything at these "public schools on land". Assessing life, making adequate changes as well as choosing to be happy and enjoy life should always be a m.o., whether on land or sea. Cherish the time while making memories with your family and live life. As far as all the judgmental comments on here goes, as my wise history teacher once said: Opinions are like butts, everybody has one and they all stink.

[@jimmyandersson9938]

Yeah the boy seemed really happy with his guitar, hanging out with friends is so overrated.

[@mrkingpiglin358]

I never want a life like they do. God save those poor souls

[@lalalili7555]

It seems like the mother doesn’t want to do it anymore. I feel sad for her

[@tituswerner4183]

It does you can see it in her face and just hear it in her voice.

[@Firefox-hw3co]

Yeah...this is the dad's dream...the mom wasn't 100% in this

[@samudrikapatil8989]

The kids look pissed off

[@ourmodernworldofficial]

rip private life

[@forcedair92gt94]

Samudrika: Just like the kids of today on land.

[@mrmisterman999]

Clueless parents just want to live their fantasy and probably think the kids just love being around them

[@947969]

parents are selfish

[@chazyeast6819]

Parents : lets go on a journey Kids : Parents : Yes you have no right

[@GBlunted]

Reminds me of my parents who took our family sailing across the Pacific in a 48' S/V from Samoa to Washington State when I was like 10years old...

[@UniqueDestinations]

I’d love to try this! Not for 9 years, though...a few months would have been great! 🤩🤩🤩

[@lunix3259]

The dad brought the whole family into a retirement dream

[@Marcus-kc6pr]

Dream for him maybe,wife hated it after awhile ands kids obviously hate it it’s borderline abuse

[@Gila45688]

That is selfish ....in time his kids will grown and wanted to move inland to start their own adventures.

[@broncosstampede494]

NO THE WHOLE FAMILY WANTED TO DO IT..DUMBASS...GET TO SWIN WITH FISHES MEET PEOPLE ON EVERY COUNTRY.... YOU BROKE ASS WISHES YOU COULD DO IT...BUT YOUR FAMILY PROBABLY HATES YOU THO!!

[@trentwilson8085]

bro it’s not that serious lmao

[@theletter459]

@@broncosstampede494 yea, but even if they all want to, how would the kids go into normal life, they would suffer trying to adapt, making their day to day life very hard for them

[@ignantxxxninja]

I guess they’ll be fine during the pandemic

[@grievous5243]

I don't think they have a clue

[@JACKIIOE]

@@grievous5243 LOL

[@50_Pence]

They might not be able to visit different countries?

[@masterofpuppets5072]

@@grievous5243 they live on earth of course they have a clue

[@grievous5243]

@@masterofpuppets5072 It was a joke and no uncontacted tribes wouldn't have a clue there's a pandemic.

[@musaelsaidi]

I'm really impressed. Mazel tov. I grew up in two separate compounds . I never had friends visit and I have always been extremely awkward socially. Yes I am impressed because the children are allowed to socialize with others. However, I agree that it would be best not to keep them isolated.

[@Drumsticksmcgee]

In 2021, becoming a reality for a lot of people. ✌️

[@SplashAttackTCG]

This seems cool, but the kids don’t look healthy mentally. They seem a bit awkward and give off a strange vibe. They have been deprived of so many social interactions.

[@corybosma9341]

Splash Attack TCG they are gonna grow to basically be carbon copys of the parents

[@cshub9323]

That's your own interpretation. The kids clearly stated that they love what they do.

[@davinthetoothgamer4872]

noone in that family looked healthy

[@ulvha]

But they got Sailor Soul so its fine to me, once on the sea always on the sea!

[@MSotelo503]

The poor girls look like they are depressed. Face said it all.

[@momomomongaa]

i guess child services cant take the children away when you are in the middle of the ocean lol

[@melissav.s259]

😄😄

[@jjnelsonnc]

They would have

[@monk729]

😂

[@duraiprasanth]

I have read that book... Name pls

[@kyumazu1926]

Lmao

[@annemiura7767]

Sounds like a wonderful experience for these people and their kids. It seems that most of the negative or “ concerned “ comments are from people who have never traveled much. The whole world is a community folks ! Interactions with other cultures and making friends with people who are not the same as you, is very different ( and quite wonderful ) from living in the burbs and never traveling beyond a road trip to a national park. These kids will be self sufficient, confident , interesting adults.

[@jimmyandersson9938]

So people who travel often wont see any problem with kids spending their entire childhood on boat?

[@XXZombieXHunter]

Living life on your own terms is true living😎

[@lokmanhakim9240]

His son will get a first date with dolphin..he must be really nervous

[@zakariyyaabdullah3806]

I think a mermaid

[@areyes2137]

Or his sister

[@sweetberries683]

Ha ha ha I love your comment

[@parkchimmin7913]

Lokman Hakim **whispers** *Jotaro Kujo*

[@matttawn9022]

He would be happy with his 2 sisters

[@tofu4375]

My teacher quit her job and took her family cruising. I remember her kids weren't really all that excited about it as she was.

[@johngee8774]

I thought your next sentence be - "And they're never been found."

[@dreamer9375]

@@johngee8774 Yeah don't know why but I thought of that too.

[@asktheuniverse2718]

Ok people need to start setting up go-fund me accounts to escape this terrible 9-5 nightmare. I’m sure lots of folks would love to support that wholesome and eco conscious way of raising a family. ☺️

[@aprilmcfadden8502]

Well they look healthy, happy and wow the children are well spoken and mature. Would be cool to see a check in 10yrs down the road.

[@mrfox5315]

Those 2 girls look so sad like. Why is the shower floor always sticky? And that boy probably struggling super bad through puberty.

[@dawnriddler]

Everyone is talking about the boy, like girls don't struggle. Also them sleeping in the same bed for 9 years is just crazy.

[@Schtiel]

@@dawnriddler Entire families sleep in the same room across most of the planet. Youre applying western standards to a family who not only aren't living in a western country, they're not living in any country.

[@dawnriddler]

@@Schtiel they sleep in the same bed, basically next to each other. And you don't even know where I live, so don't assume.

[@captionpril9121]

@@dawnriddler girls do struggle lmao I bet they're both equally hormonal influenced just like everyone else who went through puberty

[@sebastianm5573]

i feel so sorry for the kids

[@trillrifaxegrindor4411]

they have been to 100s of unique places and cultures,you have been in your room.they do not envy you....

[@Redactedredacted5837]

trillrif axegrindor He didn't even say the kids must envy him. Did you misinterpret what he said and pull some nonsense out of your ass?

[@sebastianm5573]

Spikey Plant yes thx

[@karlhungus8841]

They’ve been cornholed all over the globe by many different cultures. Can you say that?

[@Chatter76]

trillrif axegrindor yeah, but my parents will let me make my own life choices and I got to experience the classic memories of prom, high school sports, and had many friends I could see constantly. That boy clearly was upset with his missed experiences.

[@andreewing05]

Left USA 17 years ago at 36. Have 6 children now 2 who have only seen America. I admire what this family is doing and place exponential value on family socialization, unity, loyalty and learning to work together as opposed to the socialization that comes from living in an average American city. It’s not even close for me.

[@imagineitsart4385]

Life is nothing but living....., living how we love to live. ........good wishes....

[@nuka6226]

What happens when they die and the kids are left with no formal education and are unable to get a job

[@shadowwalker3147]

They said they learned online which is still not too good

[@Chatter76]

Jonathan Williams they may not want to be merchant marines and it’s not like they are on a cargo ship, they’re on a sailboat. So the large engines will still be foreign to them. Plus women merchant marines tend to not end well.

[@metallidome]

..."What happens when they die?" - Obviously, a burial at sea.

[@jbcampbell3455]

Nuka formal education means nothing. Some of the richest people in the world don’t have a formal education...but they do have an education,...just in things that matter. They’ve been spared the BS that formal education offers and I think to a great extent even crippled many who choose that path.

[@davidmarzolino7159]

@@jbcampbell3455 WELL SAID !

[@ln14517]

The girl is drawing forest animals while living at sea.

[@Marlene5018]

Omg! That’s true! Good observation!

[@maroneventer4636]

Deep shit...

[@sinhueherrera8984]

@@maroneventer4636 sure Jan

[@greylove2064]

awww

[@juniorsir9521]

They do visit counties and stop and be on land.

[@williamjhunter5714]

Must be blessed, lucky, know what your doing...all in one and well organized to keep that going and not hit weather or illness...9 years & 30 countries by sea...amazing.

[@dave5833]

We lived on our 50 Gulf Stream for over 7 days, sailed from Long Beach California to Grand Cayman 27 years ago.

[@ThatWeirdoRightThere]

This whole family seems like they’re depressed. All of them except for the father just look uncomfortable and those kids have missed out on a lot of key factors to adolescent development

[@petscraftsandwonderfulthin1279]

I don't think the dad had many interviews in this video. I would've liked to hear more from him.

[@christy9766]

Your messed up

[@yourmommashouse]

@@christy9766 you are too sensitive

[@yourmommashouse]

@@christy9766 you’re*

[@yoon9521]

Idk man, majority of us might not understand them but do they have to live like us city people?

[@elizabethc3467]

So many questions. When are the kids going to live THEIR life???

[@lightend100]

the boy is now attending college I believe. If you have kids, you make the choices for them. They are kids, parents who say they will raise their kids like they are friends are the worst parents around, their kids tend to be the worst kids too. When you dont make the choices for them, you end up with teen pregnancies, criminal records, obese, lazy , selfrightouse bastards who want socialism so they can get everything for free. (statistics being many more young people want socialism than older people).

[@FSAUDIOGUY]

They are living it now...one of the best you could ever hope for!

[@sasham6960]

FSAUDIOGUY no need to be so condescending

[@cognitivedissonance4413]

@@sasham6960 The initial question was condescending - the response fitted the question.

[@sasham6960]

Cognitive Dissonance I don’t think you seem to comprehend the meaning of condescending. The original commenter obviously expressed her thoughts on the younger kids’ futures and if this was really THEIR dream or their parent’s. Whereas the reply, saying something like “Their life is way better than yours” is a bit condescending in my opinion. I don’t know, maybe I misread it. But speaking on other people’s parts does not sit well with me lol

[@felicianobarclona9566]

Godbless your family ...from philipines manila

[@drew7481]

Love this woman’s energy and spirit.