I Thought I Was Going to Die - Gulf Stream Sailing (Ep. 8)

[@Tunethetone]

This is one of the greatest videos on the whole 'sailing KZbin', thanks for your honest emotional moments. I was in the situation like this when everything get against me beating hard through the steep waves of the North Sea and 20-25 gusting a month ago and I did returned back which was ruining the entire plan of my journey. Also was frightened as hell. All of these means only one - lack of experience for the circumstances. Planning planning and again planning.

[@sailingavocet]

It is so hard to film through the emotional parts! Major kuddos to this channel

[@russanderson6965]

Josh..thank you for posting I have a new boat and. Had a few wake up calls ..glad your safe and I’m sure you will save lives for future sailors . Blesssings 🙏🏻

[@richardhawkins2248]

No sleep for three days? I did that once and saw things that weren't there too. I will definitely reef the main at night. He held it together pretty damn good. Yes his honesty will save lives.

[@richardhawkins2248]

@Despiser Despised No this was actually an intelligent warning about the mistakes that can be made while sailing. He taught a lot of people a lot of things. I suspect a fair number of people will review this and learn. He left out part of what was wrong in his attempt. Not only did he have a 4.5 or 5.5 knot current he was running against, but the wind out of the north as 20 to 25 knots. It was running right into the waves and whipping them up as in the current plus the wind speed. Some of us learn from the mistakes of others. Now you live in San Francisco? I was smart enough to avoid that place. Most of us were.

[@declanfarrell1476]

Almost every trip teaches you something new related to long distance crushing because there is so often new variables that pop up! My ocean cruising days are over now after two decades of learning and I still consider myself a ruckie.That thought always kept me safe. Part of trip planning was to check in with sailors who had covered the sailing grounds in question and ask for the tips on the dangers that might pop! Almost always picked up invaluable safety tips. I still had a few close shaves that I’m not very proud about but they do make for a great addition when there is an interested group sharing stories and drink! A wise old sailor advised me... “when the time arrives that you can’t lift your own weight out of the water, hang up your ocean cruising gear and just enjoy the coastal views with friends” Fair wind to you youngfella... but talk more with the guys who have gone before you and enjoy your time. Finally I tried to avoid the hardship as much as possible... it doesn’t make anyone a hero!

[@gbayfan3]

Your courage in posting this will literally save lives, Josh. Thank you!!

[@LetterSignedBy51SpiesWasA-Coup]

Despiser Despised What did P.T. Barnum have to say about virtue signaling?

[@sten-endrenordas-hansen3046]

You're a LEGEND man! Thank you for sharing and reminding us that life on the sea is not allways blue calm water and beautiful sunsets.

[@timwilkinson6146]

Brutally honest, it takes a big man to share those emotions. Regroup and get going again

[@MrManic52001]

Ehhh, we dissagree.

[@Rodrigorosa1969]

I agree with Tim, it takes balls to recognize that you were stubborn, you f$$$d up and sharing for people to understand that sailing is not just a youtube channel.

[@bdtrap]

@@MrManic52001 He messed up by not doing his homework, but he owns it; and his post will save at least a few other people from doing the same.

[@MrManic52001]

@@bdtrap all true

[@stargod3064]

Why would you stay awake for over 2 days though lol it’s illogical 🖖

[@ZeRowe]

Don’t quit! It’s over and you made it! ... Valuable lessons learned... You’re a sailor now 😎🍻

[@Wearyman]

@@SOLDOZER Don't be an ass.

[@albatros1752]

@Crazyirish _ right on

[@devlinsemmler8236]

@@SOLDOZER Watch out boys, this one's tough and edgy. You can tell, he appropriated his name from Metallica.

[@captainmike808]

Devlin Semmler But its true. He cried and quit. Navy boys.....

[@pearlyshells2430]

Needs to go sail in a lake for a few more years...no malice...type of guy everyone complains about when the CG is sent out...facts.

[@myleshall1971]

Josh, I'm a retired police officer and PTSD sufferer, wannabe sailor. There is a point that can not be overstated. Sleep deprivation is NO FUCKING JOKE !...there is a reason govts' do it as part of the torture process. I've experienced it many times myself due to endless nights of sleeplessness and I can understand what that does to the mind and the ability to think. It's damn right scary how the brain can just shut down, usually when you need it most, as in your situation....AND it flares the emotional responses BIG TIME, as you found out in your filming of this episode. Your experience was HIGHLY AMPLIFIED by having been up several days without sleep. ....all the ocean shit aside. Awesome video, thanks.

[@moonraker7774]

You are a real man now.You know that anything can happen at anytime.You improvised ,adapted and overcame.You have my full respect as you are a Real sailor .Now you know Thanks for the videos keep them coming.

[@joe.b.]

One of the few sailing channels that shows it all from the eyes of a new sailor... Preserver brother!

[@darrickwillhite3362]

Breathe man and SLEEP. Be happy. you are a pro now!!! A man without scars has never been tested. Thank you for filming that. I know it probably wasn't easy.

[@Blowfish1972]

Very heavy Josh, being following your channel from the start, feel like I know you as a close friend (crazy). Your emotions are felt all the way here in Sweden. Pat yourself on the back mate, you did it...you still with us :)

[@uniqueoutcome6589]

The greatest measure of courage is not solo sailing, but your willingness to share your fears openly and honestly. You sir are courageous in my book. That said, I'm glad you're safe and that you seem to have been able to include a healthy dose of humility as an outcome of your learning. Thank you for your willingness to pass on that learning to the rest of us that wish we could have been there to help you on your passage. Wishing the best in your future sailing adventures that I will likely only be able to dream about.

[@JoshPostVlogs]

Many thanks for this comment! It means a lot to me.

[@northcaptain]

You are very brave to admit the downturn of your experience. We sailors most often live on the edge of luck. It can turn bad at any moment and most of the time we get through it with a smile or a small bruise. But at some time, even in good weather it can turn bad. You said "life changing moment" at the beginning and that says it all. Please disregard any wrong intentionned comment here, most persons haven't sailed solo and don't know what they are talking about. I admire you for your honesty and courage.

[@richardbeaudoin7141]

Good judgement is the result of experience and experience the result of bad judgement. Mark Twain Don’t give up Josh!

[@noneyabiznas3590]

Exactly!! Awesome quote.

[@mlaff5002]

One of the most real sailing videos I’ve ever seen. Lessons learned, stay in the game!

[@gardenway]

Your honesty and humility may save the lives of others who see this. I am glad you came through.

[@gsahookah599]

Don't be so hard on yourself mate; sailing Solo is no joke, it's dangerous even for highly experienced sailors. The pre-planning, weather trending and analysis, safety gear training (before you ever attempt to solo on a 4-day trip, obviously), emergency weather planning ahead of time, and having a plan which includes getting sufficient sleep/rest along the way, and finally, speaking with multiple skilled sailors who made the same or similar trip before you untie your lines so that you gain amazing insight into what things might come up along the trip. If you're not able or willing to do these things, sailing Solo is not for you mate. Best of luck mate, I hope things work out for you either way. Pro Tip: An extensive and exhaustive equipment maintenance plan (and pre-trip maintenance and parts/supplies checklist) will enable your boat to work when you expect it to, thus allowing a Solo sailor ample time to get much needed rest. The most successful and safe sailors are those who take maintenance and safety checks to the extreme.

[@jeffhaley9494]

I admire your courage to live life...even with it's inherent risks. A very scary moment...and you prevailed through the storm. Bravo!

[@jacksprat3009]

When i was desperate for work, I went to a truck driving school in Oregon. Learned valuable lessons. The most important lesson came by the chief instructor who had logged over 200,000 miles without an accident. "Don't let any body else drive your truck." meaning if driver is on your tail trying to get you to go faster than you want, or on the CB and you hear them yucking it up because you're crawling down an icy mountain pass, turn them off. There are crazies out there driving for days on meth. They might make the miles but they're the ones you see going too fast into a clover leaf and rolling, falling asleep and running off the road or into over passes. I no longer drive a semi but the lesson still applies to many things. "Don't let anybody else sail your boat."

[@larrycarpenter9899]

Lack of sleep does crazy things to your mind and body. You saw the demon and beat him back. Great job and stay with the dream. Thank you for sharing

[@manuelmorais7519]

A solo sailor must have a wind vane... a precious tool that helps steering better than the autopilot and also allows you to sleep

[@gdfggggg]

Manuel Morais what is that? Thanks

[@RiggingDoctor]

When we crossed the Atlantic, my wife was seasick most of the way and I had to single hand it. Our shortest leg was 18 days at sea and the Windvane steered the whole way. All I had to do was check on things periodically.

[@furiousfelicia5751]

Slashley gibbins it’s a form of autonomous auto pilot. Usually uses wind or water+wind to keep the boat on course. Look it up it’s a must have for solo sailors.

[@donnakawana]

Sailing Tangaroa built one an made a video how to...check it out!

[@stinkintoad]

Yes i agree, and he should have crossed further down the coast like from palm beach to bimini.

[@chorgus]

It takes tremendous courage for anyone to admit that they got in over their heads. Your bravery is obvious in attempting the passage to the Bahamas single handed, and you show even more bravery in posting this video. You're an inspiration.

[@5t0aty]

Lessons learned bud. Things escalate quickly at Sea. Thanks for sharing Josh. Don't give up. Now's the time for a risk assessment before your next trip. Especially knowing what you know now.

[@jaymugenpower]

Glad you are safe! Thank you for sharing even though it was tough to share. I found many sailing channels don't docuement the gulf stream crossing and its serious business. My dad had some similar problems happen when he was hit with changing winds and auto pilot failure during his crossing. Fortunately he had an experienced crew hand with him who had done several crossings before. But he explained truely how difficult it was even with help. One of the key things I took from sailing is you just have to keep calm in the ocean and work through the things you can do one by one until you regain control. Of course that is really difficult in the moment. On water, problems compound and things happen very quickly. Also there is almost little to no rescue. Its great that you documented what happened and you can reflect on it. Sure you grew tremendously and you should be very proud of how you acted during the event and was able ot make it through! Thanks again. Look forward to more sailing videos! Keep living the dream!

[@JoshPostVlogs]

Thank you, Jay! I certainly learned a lot on this particular weekend. It was a crash course. Would love to hear more stories about your dad one day. Cheers!

[@ruaraidhmcdonald-walker9524]

Oh bloody hell that was a tough watch. Very brave of you to record this so honestly with the lessons learned and all the emotion so fresh to see. Truly inspirational! I hope time has taken some of the sting out of this for you. Thank you for sharing.

[@virgis21]

wow! thanks for showing everything, not only easy parts! awesome story! Favorite channel!!! Thanks

[@melvinwoo1599]

Hey Josh... Great video showing your true character, a smart sailer knows when to turn back. Nothing to be ashamed of, in fact I admire your sense of adventure. Just completed my first solo a couple of weeks ago and it showed a lot of flaws on my boat that need to be corrected before venturing out alone again. Hats off to you mate... Fair sailings and keep the winds at you back

[@jerrycruz9547]

You did this with lots of courage. It takes a bigger man to show your emotions and share exactly what you experienced and took us with you on your journey. This will take time for you to realize what respect you will you have for the forces that are bigger than life. The best thing to happen to use is this lesson fine tuned your senses. We are one from falling overboard, tripping on a stone on the road. You did it! You are my hero Josh! I love your postings. I just found them this morning. I miss sailing! Share your experience and knowledge with anyone that is willing to listen.

[@bdtrap]

@Josh Post I've scrolled through comments and am surprised that I haven't seen anyone mention a deliberate offset in the comments. Left turn at Jacksonville, yikes! yes, but you know that now. So, hopefully this will help you: Draw a "1-hour-triangle." (1) Figure out the current (you got that) and draw that "0-180° straight up and down (since the current will push you north). If it's 3 knots, draw a 3" line. (2) figure out your boatspeed and heading, same thing, if it's 5 knots then your line will be 5" long, and draw that line. Start the line from the base (southern tip) of your "current" line. And draw it at the angle you want to go. Let's just say due 90° for ease of use (say you're in Miami and want to get to Bimini). (3) Connect those two lines - your current vector and your boatspeed vector - to form a triangle. Read the "contained angle," in this case the angle at the lower-right corner of the triangle. That's how much angle you want to add to your course to steer, in order to compensate for the current. e.g. if you do want to head due east at 5 knots with a 3kt northerly current, you'll probably add 30° to your CTS. So, 90° intended track becomes 120° course to steer. (4) The answer to #3 will change all the time, depending on what your boatspeed is and what the current is doing. At the edge of the gulf stream, you'll probably get a 2kt push. Near the center, you could get 3 or 3.5 knots of current. (5) #4 cannot possibly be overstated, it is physically impossible to mentioned it enough. Plot it on a paper chart every hour, and double-check it with GPS, to see how well you are tracking. Please remember to add deviation and variation to your calculations for your CTS. You'll see, from your triangles, that the only wind where you really can't make it to Bimini is is it's coming from south-east. If it's coming from the East or from the South, you'll be fine, just point a little higher or lower to try to get your wind where you want it (so you might have to go even further south if the winds are coming from due south, if you want the wind on the beam). You made the wise decision to turn back. Regroup and go again, but may I humbly ask that you invest in navigation courses before you go. They will help. You can draw a 1-hr triangle literally on a napkin - if you think the current is 2kt and your boatspeed is 6kt, then estimate a 1-hr triangle such that the base is 3x the length of the height. Then eyeball that angle and adjust course accordingly. GPS is great, but it only tells you where you are, it doesn't tell you how to get to where you want to be. Not through current, anyway. Fair winds and blue skies. Once you get to Bimini, the sunsets are amazing. Treat yourself to breakfast at CJ's. It's greasy and worth it. PM me if you have any questions on the 1-hr triangle.

[@JoshPostVlogs]

Thanks for this comment and good advice. I was actually following the path given to me by a professional weather router Chris Parker. It turned out to be bad routing advice. In fact, he had a typo in his routing that made all the difference. Nonetheless, it was the best learning experience I've ever had, like going to a four year university crammed into one weekend. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.

[@bdtrap]

@@JoshPostVlogs Oh man, what a heck of an impact! Typos suck! Sorry to hear that, brother. Wow! Glad you made it back home! Those learning experiences are the good ones - after it's all through. You've still got a boat, and you're still alive to make more youtube videos, so I'd call it a short-term holysh*t but a long-term win. Keep it up, brother. You're living the dream that most of us just wish we could :)

[@donnakawana]

Wow again learning still that's was brilliant...I will try that.....

[@benniegant]

Still Calm Waters Never Made a Great Sailor :P

[@joshuafarris3608]

Josh, let me start off by saying congratulations on your retirement from the USN. I'm a few years away myself, and I thank you for your service! I'm currently stationed in Jacksonville and decided to take up sailing about a month ago. I'm not shoping for my own boat at the moment, but the thought has crossed my mind a time or two... I just dont think it is a good idea to rush into things at the moment. While the thought crosses my mind, I find myself watching youtube videos and came across your channel tonight as I was watching (how to sail) videos. I binged watched all your videos from your how to videos, to your first boat a few years ago, to your current boat (really enjoyed watching your enthusiasm fixing her up), to this video. It hasn't swayed my decision about sailing any... but it has reminded me about safety and preparation. I would like to thank you for your sincerity in this video and really do hope that you continue on your voyage. We all have dreams and aspirations.... and your living one now. Dont give up or look back in 20 years (as you put in another video) wishing you had done something. Get back up, dust yourself off.... prep a bit more, and continue on. I look forward to upcoming videos and wish you a great journey brother... If your ever back in jax, I'd be happy to do a day trip (or two) with your guidance in helping me get comfortable in sailing more. Again, safe journeys and keep your head up high!

[@aaronbarlow7701]

Thank you for posting this. Most sailing videos I’ve seen only show the fun and exciting parts of sailing. This will save someone’s life.

[@thelongway3509]

I don't think I've ever commented on a KZbin video before, but that video is one of the most important and inspiring video's ive ever watched. Thank you for sharing it must have been very hard to do. I'm planning on a circumnavigation and that really drilled home the importance of being prepared.

[@johnmonf]

Late to the party here but I agree with others that this is the best sailing video on youtube. I'm not a sailor yet but I'm a firefighter with aviation experience and I was tracking with you the whole time. Sleep deprived, literally everything failing, totally alone no way out. Thats heavy stuff. We can all Monday quarter back what led to everything but it happened and you got through it thank God. Thank you for being real and thank you for posting, very big of you and very helpful to people who see this.

[@ickstopherq6414]

I’m glad you posted this, it’s not all fun in the sun. It’s serious work what you did and I for one will always think of this video when everything is going OK.

[@timk4944]

Josh, you are a brave person to share this story with your viewers. You have done more than most of us watching this can only dream. I feel that its important to have a friend along for the journey, not just for the sake of crew duties but to experience the highs and lows with you. You've already proven that you can survive on your own sailing single handed, but why merely survive when you have so much to offer. You don't strike me as a quitter, in fact quite the opposite. I hope by now that you have regrouped, recharged your batteries so to speak in Florida and found new crew and fixed your engine woes so that you get to continue your adventure to the Bahamas. Now that you have had a chance to reflect on this incident, I would be interested to hear your takeaway thoughts.

[@JoshPostVlogs]

Many thanks for this comment, Tim. Looking back after now having more experience I think this was not quite the crisis I made it to be. It's all relative. Since I was so new to ocean sailing at the time this video took place, it was a real crisis. I think I'd handle it differently now. But I definitely should have hugged the coast more before I decided to cross the gulf stream. I still like solo sailing, but you're right, if you can find the right friend/crew mate, it makes a big difference to share the experiences with a second person. Thanks again!

[@timk4944]

@@JoshPostVlogs Thank you for your thoughtful response👍

[@spartacusm3689]

Hang on! You've done it! You got through ! Celebrate! This made you stronger! You are the Star! Make necessary repairs, rest and do carry on with your initial goal! (from Russia with love:)

[@GoodNYou212]

Nothing but respect and complete understanding for you. Several times, I've thought about trying this. I AM NOT experienced. And most other solo sailing videos make it seem like its all fun and ease. I needed to see reality. I think you handled yourself amazingly. You are alive. That is the proof of your skill and determination. Thank you. And know I truly empathize and respect your candor.

[@bobazevedo5958]

Josh, you're a very brave man on two counts. 1) For making the voyage in the first place. 2) For having the courage to post this video and showing your emotions. What don't kill you, makes you stronger. You survived. You're stronger. Well done.

[@MrA1582000]

You are so courageous for posting this video showing your emotions, such an honest man. This will help many others to avoid similar situations. Nothing beats planning, studying and sleep. We learn from our experiences. You got this.

[@heritagebay]

I'm confused. You're headed to the bahamas from SC. You were purposely trying to get into the Gulf Stream that flows North? I can relate to lack of sleep. I went to similar experience sailing solo to Key west from St Pete. The wind die to zero. I floated for three days with no wind. I get to 30 miles off Marco island and the wind shifted and increased. I got to half way to Key West and the winds turned into a headwind at 20+ knots. At the same time I lost my autopilot. Three days without sleep, no desire to eat and having to hand steer really sucks. Did you hear the mermaids by any chance? I could hear the music but no one was around

[@jasonbannan4024]

The first time that things get hairy, it feels much worse. The conditions in the Gulf Stream have vexed the best of sailors. You made it through despite exhaustion and you continued sailing. That shows that you are made of stronger stuff than you probably realized. As a result of sharing your story, you and others will be much better prepared the next time things get tough. You shared your emotions of exhaustion, fright, and eventual relief with all of us. Hopefully we are all better for it and better connected to each other through you and your story. Thank you.

[@lifeasrob1757]

Thank you for sharing brother. I'm getting ready to buy a boat and once comfortable with it I'm planning to sail near and far with my 15 year old son whose idea it initially was. After watching so many noobs on KZbin with no experience happily sailing all over the world with no issues other than constant boat maintenance, I had lost the proper fear/respect for the sea. Thank you for sharing one of the scarier of the realities that comes with the wonder and joy of sailing the world's oceans. I'm going to spend a bunch of time in the James River, then the Chesapeake Bay before we head out on the ocean. Thank you again, your selfless sharing of this experience will save lives. Maybe someone I love. Thank you brother.

[@hsgjkhagljkh]

A healthy man doesn't hold it in. Thank you, Josh for being honest. I went through my own hell recently and had to be ok with just letting it out. Your video is an inspiration for all of us to be authentic after trauma so we can heal and move our lives forward.

[@davecopp9356]

Thank you for being authentic. This is motivational for me, it shows you don´t have to be perfect. All the best.

[@MarcelOosterveld]

Thank you for your honesty. .Most of the sailing videos on YT are only the good parts which doesn't give a right perspective on sailing around the globe. Your video gave us an inside view of what can happen, even with a experienced sailor as yourself. Thank you for sharing this. Be proud you managed to conquer nature. You are living my dream, remember that. Take care!

[@aquavitasailing2855]

I’m working towards a Trans Atlantic crossing next May- this might be the best thing I’ve seen on KZbin in years. Thank you for your honesty, it not only took courage to attempt a solo crossing, it took serious guts to first record, then follow through with editing and posting the story of your struggles. I think I will make this video required viewing for everyone that will be crewing with me on the crossing. You talk about the improvements to your gear and tactics, but there is one other safety requirement that you alluded to but didn’t talk about: ESPECIALLY if you are solo sailing, but equally important if you are skippering with a crew- you MUST be MILITANT about a sleep schedule that will allow your brain to continue to function... it is the absolute most mission critical piece of safety equipment that you have on board. If your brain doesn’t work, nothing else matters! Great video, you now have a great deal of hard-earned wisdom to allow you to continue your adventures. Thanks again for posting!

[@rjh6786]

Hey Josh. Took emotional maturity to post this video. So many youtube sailing channels make it all look so easy and carefree. Thank you for have the fortitude to show that it isn't. I plan to be doing what you are doing in 2-3 years after I get more sailing experience and this is an excellent reminder that it can go from just fine to near disaster in a heart beat. You are helping other sailors think twice or three times about their plans and preparation and that will save someone's life. Regroup and carry on. You can do this!

[@Sailingon]

Omg I'm only 1/4 way through and feeling for you. I'm planning on solo sailing and need to see this reality. This is the most honest sailing video I've seen yet. Powerful stuff.

[@petermcgrory5267]

I’ve had a few life altering moments; glad to see you came through it!!!

[@Tremayne11]

Don't ever apologise for being emotional mate, just so glad you came through this unscathed. Onwards!

[@noneyabiznas3590]

Honesty and vulnerability. Things you rarely see in people anymore and reading the comments you see why. But the reality is you survived and have lots of lessons to learn from the experience. Just because you were afraid doesn't mean you failed. I frankly am inspired by your courage to try to make it alone. And the reality is that you know when you have bitten off more that you can chew, is when you have the courage to try! I hope you don't quit and I hope you don't listen to some of the shallow people here. Learn what you can learn from the experience and continue to enjoy sailing. Best of Luck to You!!

[@traceybottazzi9599]

Don't quit. You made it! Just more growing pains and lessons learned. I myself really appreciate you sharing this. So many people share only the good on the ocean, when we all know how treacherous she can be. My husband was hit with a microburst a couple weeks ago and he fought over 20 minutes to try and gain control over the boat...I can't imagine the hours you endured. Anyway, hang in there!

[@halbutler4059]

We've all been in situations where adrenaline clouded judgement, but not to such a critical degree. Sounds like sleep dep was a major factor. Your honesty is refreshing. We live & learn. This will serve you well in the future my friend. Thank you for sharing.

[@MrDavewoolley]

Wow ! Total respect for sharing such a raw emotional/life threatening experience. Your courage in sharing this video will hopefully prevent a future disaster. Thanks Josh.

[@ronfrank6976]

I know it's very late in my response, but for others, remember your boat will take more than you can take. So hold on. Good Job Josh!!!!

[@djurodjurakaruci6773]

You are a brave man and such an inspiration. If I would be in any dangerous situation, I would want a guy like you to watch my back !!

[@bendspot]

It seems as though you have a schedule. Schedules have killed more sailors than storms. Refuse to be on a schedule. Best to you.

[@donnakawana]

Wow great comment

[@closetcleaner]

That's one of the first lessons I learned from n sailing. Also in life, patience is, often, king.

[@willshaw3561]

Ya that's so true.

[@Melissa-qe8qd]

Seriously just turn everything off and don't fight the current. Just float till you get a grip or is this to simple an idea?

[@rastapete100]

@@Melissa-qe8qd In principle you are right but you can't turn off sails though you have to bring them in and he was unable to do that for a variety of reasons.

[@SapperYYC]

Everyone always shows the fun side of sailing wen things are going well. Thanks for showing the other side when things are falling apart. You lived through it and came out with a year's worth of experience in 3 hours. I'm glad to see it all worked out in the end.

[@mrpmessina]

Brilliant job. It takes guts to share those emotions. Never cut anything off your footage. Keep being genuine. Thanks for sharing.

[@JoshPostVlogs]

Thank you Paolo!

[@mrpmessina]

@@JoshPostVlogs truth be told. Your clips are very inspirational and thanks to you I have signed up for the skipper’s license course. I am ex navy, too. Lieutenant in the Italian navy, but that was long time ago. Now I fly small airplanes. Soon to be sailing the seven seas hopefully. Thanks to you. 👍

[@toddwiese7023]

That was rough, but thanks for sharing. If you have lived long enough, we've all had those moments. The success isn't as sweet if it comes easy.

[@jeremysanderson9673]

Very impressed that you had the courage to post this. That takes a real man. It was selfless of you to share this with other sailors. I’ve been brought to the point of tears through fatigue and fear myself, and know how it’s impossible for anyone else to get it unless they’ve been there themselves. You kept fighting and survived. Kudos.

[@joyellison6225]

OMG!! This is the BEST sailing video I have ever watched! (and I watch a lot of them) Such open, raw and honest emotion!!! Don't let ANYONE make you feel bad about it!!! So many videos are all the fun things and happy time and there is nothing wrong with that but your never see one like this that shows the true emotion of sailing!! You keep sailing and keep making videos!! I just happened upon your video by looking for how to sail videos. Can't wait to see more!

[@clxxiv]

Avid sailing beginner here. Wow. What a lesson that was just by watching the video, let alone being in the situiation and suriving it. Just goes to show how much planning into the details has to be made especially when out in the ocean. Safety first! Thanks for the video and your courage.

[@codyosborne9307]

3 years ago this happened to you, but my heart goes out to you, even now, for your courage and the humbling experience you went through. Thank you. This may just save my life one day.

[@codyosborne9307]

There are three things all wise men fear: The sea in storm, a night with no moon, and the anger of a gentle man.

[@meldrumart]

Not many can be as honest as you have been. You get an applause for that. In a way you are doing the right thing by jumping into the deep end, except maybe like you said you should be more prepared. I hope the sea hasn't scared you too much, it's a beast when it wants to be. It scares the sh*t out of me at least once a year and I have been sailing for 46 years. Still, I love the big horizons and the freedom it offers, it's hard to change course once you have begun your journey. Fair winds and easy currents too you!

[@justinwhittington107]

Thank you for being so vulnerable and honest, I'm so proud of your successes.

[@WarbirdPylonRacer]

Josh glad you made it! I don't think any true sailor has not had a wet pants situation. Same thing happened to me, now I keep a line to tie my helm off if everything else fails. Lowering the sails and depowering the boat saved me in my situation. Carry on soldier!

[@alianord]

Wow ! Thanks for sharing this experience. Stay sharp and alert.

[@skippyone2769]

Safe now, wiser and a better person for the experience and a better sailor too! Not all lessons are that tough ! Don't give up and keep sailing.

[@martymcfly3986]

Great video showing the not so nice part of sailing and how it can drain your energy. Good to see you overcame this. Thanks for sharing

[@dannyroberts5056]

Thanks for this video. So many sailing videos only show the positive side of sailing. I once heard that if nothing ever goes wrong then your not realy sailing . I believe this to be true for life in general. I do alot of distance kayaking, when I first started I had a couple scarry moments. I learned from those, now I respected the weather and water alot more. I have had a couple since but not because I wasn't prepaired but because mother nature and idiot driving boats . I try and handle those situations as calmly as possible even thow my heart rate jumps up. My wife is always trying to talk me out of those trips. I always let her know were Im going and when I plan to be back. You have nothing to be ashamed of and Im glad you made it back ok to tell your story. Thanks for a true and honest video.

[@mjanulis3603]

Hey Josh, I know I’m late to this party. But I plan to do the same adventure in my 33 foot Pearson and your video is invaluable. I’ve learned a lot just knowing how many things can go wrong that you never think of. Really really appreciate your honesty and openness with what can happen with the gulf stream. My plan is to go farther south maybe to Miami or even the keys and then cross with the current if possible. But ready for anything I think is the name of the game and I really commend you for getting through it. I’ll watch the rest of your adventure and know that you have my full respect. Sail on.

[@JoshPostVlogs]

Many thanks. Yes. I definitely recommend going to South Florida and then crossing to the Bahamas. Many sailors cross from West Palm Beach. This is what I ended up doing and it's an easy 8 hour sail (with the right weather window). I was stubborn and I wanted that 4 or 5 day distance crossing experience, but going south against the gulf stream is not the place to get that crossing experience.

[@Adam-kn2cj]

Big man real emotions lessons for all total honesty makes strong people respect !! Big luvs

[@billturner1240]

Hello Josh... When I first heard of the crossing you were going to take, I was wondering why I haven't seen that route before. I can tell you... That I said to you before, your a good instructor. Josh you still are... Don't give up. Never do that ! You have just taught all of us another great lesson my friend. You will be fine. You know it as we know it. Go for it ! Go for it !

[@FashionableFather]

That sh#% got real! Wow! Sleep deprivation with those rough seas ain’t no joke. When you had said in previous episodes that you hadn’t slept I had already begun to get nervous for ya. You’re a better man from this experience. Thanks for sharing all of it.

[@sailingnomad4963]

No one likes Monday morning quarterbacks, but it really looks like you need it. 1) Sleep. In fair Wx it’s critical that you get what you can, when you can. You went into the stream already at the end of your limits, so you had nothing to give when it was required. 2) learn to heave-to in all conditions. As the wind increases the amount of sail and the trim will change. Figure it out BEFORE you need it. 3) If you’re going to single hand, have multiple methods for self steering. Modern fin keeled boats REQUIRE this. Older designed could have other options, but you need a wind vane or a completely separate back up autopilot, and it has to be installed and ready to go, not in a box as spares. Rest up and get back in the saddle. FWFS.

[@martinfrederiksen4322]

Just found this channel... Its hard to watch this episode. Crying with you here.. Thank you so much for sharing. I agree with other comments here - This video can save lives. Subscribed!

[@neilcampion3118]

I have only done passages with someone else onboard. I admire you guys who go solo. You got through it and learned. Hope you don’t give up, best video I have seen for a long time.

[@andymccann8236]

Wow Josh, truly remarkable. I don't envy that experience, and yet somehow I do. You presented yourself with huge challenges, for which you were "mostly" prepared. And as the situation broke down into chaos in the dark in the middle of the sea, while facing exhaustion - physical AND mental - you should take pride in how you handled things. As a pilot and sailor, I am keenly aware at how those elements tend to be a recipe for disaster. Yet you managed your predicament step by step and kept your wits about you. In flying, a timely 180 is an often overlooked safety tool, used to get yourself back to where your flight was more manageable. I say you made a great call in turning yourself around before things got worse. This must have been tough to figure out how to share with us, but bravo sir. Now I understand a little better why you chose to sell Giraffe once you got back to Florida, and why we haven't been seeing as much vlog activity from you. I mean it when I say thank you for sharing. What ever happened to Spencer?

[@rahirikelly8343]

Bloody legend mate , your strength under pressure is immense .Go Well

[@sionbenjamin4513]

A great one of what not to do, of the borders of human endurance, of sleep deprivation, of bodily exertion beyond safety. Learn from this, in a few years you will look back and laugh , yes even at your own "what were you thinking about" moment. Bless you and keep safe.

[@kapirock7903]

Good winds my friend. Keep pushing, life is short. Thanks for the candor..all the best!

[@doo262]

It's a good ending with lessons learned. I get quite emotional when tired and scared shitless also, you'll get it right next round.

[@parishbull]

Hey man. Listen you're one of the most authentic sailing channels on the tube. You give great insight into the sailing life. Don't beat yourself up. Just glad you're ok. A massive learning curve for wanna bes. You're a sailor now, fully fledged and actually doing it. Living the existential and surviving is an accomplishment. Be PROUD of the lesson learned, move on and for goodness sake. KEEP SAILING. Fair winds to you my friend. Real glad you're ok.

[@kevinhood6437]

Thank you josh for posting such an emotional vid! I have wanting sail the world, but don’t know anything. I will one day sail the world with your help. Thanks again

[@Tekintrust]

Your experience made you humble. Now you may rise. I support your honesty and adventurist spirit. Kudos body!

[@alexf7414]

Thanks for sharing this experience Josh. This is one of the most valuable videos I’ve seen since I started learning on You Tube. I wish other you tubers get so real about This experiences.

[@JoshPostVlogs]

I appreciate that!

[@toneyharris8014]

Hey man no shame !!! I’ve seen some scary shit out in the water, make the strongest of men shake. Glad to see you made it.

[@kspencer5137]

From a man who wants to start sailing...I needed this...lesson learned from your story brother - THANK YOU!!!! Now you are much more experienced sailor!

[@gregtbennett]

Great video. Certainly goes to show how trip planning across the Gulf Stream is so very important. As many others have commented, the raw emotion of your experience is refreshing to see.

[@gobetsygo]

Josh…you are my new favorite person….big hug from me..GiGi….from Newport RI and Andalusia Spain…!!

[@Inzyman100]

Wow, the honesty and the emotion, really brave mate and REALLY impressive putting yourself out there when most would not. Your always learning and no doubt better for it. Subscribed!

[@pangrac1]

Toughtest thing during personal crisis is to make a video and even talk about the situation and yourself. Kudos you made it. 👍

[@davidmciver9483]

Man you are killing me. Just too honest. Now I will have to watch every one of your videos.

[@superstacker3357]

Wow! This is the best channel on YOU TUBE. I'm right there with you in every video. Doesn't get any better than this.

[@Sabhail_ar_Alba]

You'll not forget that experience in a hurry. Sleep deprivation is very debilitating - some people can catch a nap here and there but others find it hard to sleep especially in stressful situations. A good presentation and lesson learnt by the sound of things.

[@pvince71]

Just watched this again with my sister, this is such a brutality honest extremely powerful film, this will teach so many people about the truths of sailing. Well done josh Well done . Think they call this "a yard stick" !!

[@JoshPostVlogs]

Thanks Paul!

[@tartansailor]

Thanks for your honesty in sharing this story, keep us posted of your new plan. But for sure , don't quit now. Cheers

[@mikeharrison5089]

Top man. The times that I have been out at sea sailing (mainly the North Sea) wishing I was any where else but where I was. With in an hour of getting back, wanting to be out there again. Takes a true man to show your emotion for the world to see.

[@CMDRGURU951]

I'm 40 years and have been landlocked for that amount of time. Your channel, content and message are very inspiring. Thank you. Please do not stop what you're doing.

[@SteveBergkamp]

Dont give up Josh. You are my inspiration. What an awesome honest post. Thank you so much.