Racing the STORM to South Africa | Sailing Florence Ep.122

The storm arrives at midnight. We find ourselves crashing through waves sailing upwind, but we can't slow down, we have to reach shelter before the next southerly storm arrives and that one is serious. We are in a race against the weather, sailing offshore down the Mozambique channel to South Africa, just ahead of Cyclone season.
We have been sailing around the world for over 5 years after setting off from England in 2016 on board our 37ft sail boat Florence. Join us as we share the highs and lows of travelling around the world by boat, Sailing offshore across the Oceans and exploring remote locations with our own little tiny house. Boat life out at sea on the ocean and off the grid.
Support us on Patreon: / sailingyachtflorence
You can also follow us via our blog at www.sailwiththeflo.wordpress.com
#Sailing #sailingaroundtheworld #OceanSailing #OffshoreSailing #Offshore #circumnavigation #SailingYachtFlorence #indianocean #yacht #Cyclone #storm
Music in order as played:
Incoming Storm - www.hooksounds.com - Licenced
Keep Walking - www.hooksounds.com - Creative Commons - Attribution Creative Commons 4.0 license
The Final Lap - www.hooksounds.com - Licenced
Inspiring Sky - www.hooksounds.com - Licenced
Free Radical - www.hooksounds.com - Licenced
The Balancing Act - www.hooksounds.com - Licenced
On the Wild Side - www.hooksounds.com - Licenced
Holding on to Hope - www.hooksounds.com - Licenced

[@Purlee100]

This is the best ''Sailing'' channel out there, you actually talk about sailing the boat and the considerations you have to take into account as you do so, No clickbait of girls semi clad, no really personal stuff we don't need to share, just good, honest sailing!

[@earthangel8730]

And no babies or dogs!

[@jetmechgirl9022]

I agree. I’m over the scantily clad women. Let’s see some damn good sailing.

[@shirleypeters]

Agree. Love the sailing lessons!

[@douglashill9844]

Aside from the very engaging couple, what I particularly enjoy about this channel is the passage planning rationale, and the frank assessment of conditions and options. True sailors, true voyagers.

[@Jurflip2]

I absolutely agree.

[@richardwhite8810]

So proud of you both. Excellent sailors, outstanding human beings .

[@RobertGronachon]

I wait every week with bated breath, you are truly admired for your passion and professionalism. an amazing young couple that will certainly go on to do other great adventures!

[@SailingYachtFlorence]

Thank you all for taking the time to write your incredibly positive comments! Your support and positivity really helps to keep us motivated through the editing stages of the next videos. Best Wishes Matt and Amy

[@Sussexfromabove]

Thank you for 22 minutes of escaping the hard reality as what happens in Eastern Europe……

[@ksmcgloin]

this!!

[@bootybandy]

I loved the part when you took the spinnaker down and were setting the sails. As you were rounding up (13' 11") you instinctively looked behind to see if there were any other boats around to ensure it was safe to carry out that movement. Only a true racer/sailor would even think about that. Love it, love it, love it.

[@Glenbard4]

Noticed this too. They’re used to dingy racing and have certainly faced a crowded waterway or 12 in the past few years. These two are amazingly talented sailors.

[@SailingYachtFlorence]

Not just checking for boats but also looking for a flatter spot between the waves to make the round up smoother.

[@eragonbaffel9518]

13:11

[@generossano2800]

@@SailingYachtFlorence While sailing my 35', Challenger Ketch on Lake Ontario, NY / Canada, when changing direction I always looked for a flat spot to make the change. Challenger, as was her name, had a cut away forefoot and big barn door of a rudder so we could generally make a nice clean change of direction while atop a flat spot in the waves.

[@ChrisWilson-nw4gk]

Another fantastic video. Your adventure just gets better and better.

[@dreadnoughtb3364]

The teaser footage at the end was spectacular. The overnight race with weather was intense. Good video you two 👍

[@stevemellor7989]

Glad you two made it to South Africa! The footage of the rough seas and musical accompaniment was outstanding!! Felt like I was at the big screen watching a Hollywood production! Can't wait to see the next episode as the previews look fantastic. I'm so jealous.

[@Cptnbond]

My favorite sailing couple. Cheers.

[@lamintouray7386]

This is by far your best episode: The cinematography including the sound is outstanding. Hope we won’t wait another 2 weeks for the next one.

[@SailingYachtFlorence]

we post once every 2 weeks, that gives us time to make each video and still live life. Each video is between 40 and 50 hours of editing. If we did one a week they would be much lower quality as we wouldn't be able to spend the time on them.

[@andyjamesable]

As another post said those 23 minutes just sadly flew past … absolutely fantastic episode and light years ahead of all the other sailing channels … hopefully the 100 000 subs mark will be hit soon and totally merited .. .Well done guys !

[@bertsanford7943]

Another great video. Love the balance you have of sailing, boat life, and sightseeing

[@JosephMullin]

I love watching you guys as you explain much more of what and why you are doing things that others don't. Stay safe and enjoy your trip.

[@leahrliporada5818]

God bless watching from Philippines 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭

[@TheBahamabob]

As a long time subscriber who’s been to South and East Africa I must say that was a nail biter for me-the entire Mozambique Passage. Now another adventure to round one of the two great southern Capes! Glad it’s around the beautiful country of South Africa with friendly ports and good stores available. Eat steak in every port Matt!

[@JJ-yh4nd]

Fantastic sailing as always! Thank you for such a terrific experience! As sailors who live aboard, we really appreciate your videos, which are SO FILLED with actual skilled sailing!!!

[@richardp1522]

Hello from Canada. Congrats on your successful planning and passage of the challenging Mozambique Channel. I admire your commitment to blue water sailing and as a couple. Its so nice to see the workload shared 50/50. Thanks for taking us along look forward to each weeks posting.

[@astromags584]

Amazing, I don't know you both but I love your adventurous sprits, stay safe stay blessed. ⚓

[@DanielTruran]

LOVED the slo-mo shots hitting those waves . epic thanks ! and Fair Winds

[@timmollart1430]

That’s a great video about passage making. Sail changes, planning, timing port arrival. Really great. Thank you.

[@MrLebro11]

What an amazing achievement. Watching you both master some notorious oceans by avoiding wild weather and planning your route meticulously has been a real privilege.

[@andycavalier1920]

Yay, my favourite couple on KZbin. Time for me to sit down with a bottle of wine.

[@georgemoore7196]

What an adventure! To think that I have been following you since you left Panama!

[@geoffpalmer6424]

As always, an excellent video. Cannot wait for the next one.

[@joeechandi5334]

Matt is a current generation of long time English sailor that have sailed the 7 seas for centuries. Amy the perfect companion for it, a true sailor herself! 👏 Great blog, pro documentary style. Outstanding 🏆

[@rikapotgieter2590]

There is nothing in this world that compares with the African wildlife. It is just magnificent. I hope you enjoy every moment of it .

[@alisonlaw2410]

Beautiful video.

[@andrewlarwood7920]

You are one of the best sailing utube channels and I follow many in the Uk winter months as I am a dedicated offshore sailor. Your coverage of actual sailing detail, tactics, weather, use of spinnaker, useful techniques in heavy weather are great. I like the competing racing spirit as well.

[@donzie13]

We have been following you two for a long time but don't comment. This time we will. Loved the videos as we did your others. Look forward to your African videos. Surprised by the terrain at the end of the video. Thank you both for taking us along! We wish safe passage to you both from Louisiana USA.

[@sligeach]

As with last comments, you are an amazingly lovely couple. Although i dont know you i found myself worrying wether you are save and sound like i would about close friends. So glad to see you,ve made it to SA. Your passage planning is second to none. God keep you safe.

[@gordonagent7037]

Oh thank goodness a sailing team that runs in a bit of poor weather with their sails up and using the wind in rough seas. I am over fair weather sailing programs where the crews are motoring to their next anchorage for another cuppa or beer, we’ll done guys

[@A_p_T53040]

The internal window view of the waves really hit home the conditions.

[@joeechandi5334]

To me this is the best sailing channel hands down ☝️

[@mikewoodard6984]

Congrats on timely landing in South Africa. Good planning, good execution, great teamwork. And now: for that gorgeous sailing section of your video starting around 8:00, I present documentary film award nominations for cinematography, direction, musical score, and editing to Matt and Amy. That was artfully done.

[@taracooney6590]

I'll second that! Superb

[@generossano2800]

Isn't it very nice to have total confidence in your sailboat knowing that she will bring you through anything that the water or the wind throws at you as long as you stay way offshore.

[@generossano2800]

Amy surely knows your boat really well. What a joy to sail with someone so very competent and willing.

[@ingriddoorn1201]

And another fantastic video! You guys are the best safe responsible sailors we know, always planning, readjusting, forward thinking......we love watching your videos so much!

[@cliffterpher]

As others have said, a really wonderful episode. The high def slow motion footage was EPIC! Mashed potatoes, eggs and beans too. Delish!! Take care and fair winds

[@greatoceanimages]

One of your best videos. I’m a very keen sailor with a boat capable of circumnavigating. Ive been researching the Indian Ocean route from Australia for a while and this episode was really helpful, thank you. Ive crossed a few oceans and recognised that very satisfying feeling that you have when you plan a route, execute the plan and arrive in an exciting new destination. Well done.

[@joeltatham5673]

Awesome episode! I’m almost sixty and I learn something from you two every episode.

[@beckylarsson6697]

As a person who has never sailed, but wishes to learn, I really appreciate your channel. I feel like I learn alot from them! Thank you!

[@TheRickpfarr]

Laser Sailors to Ocean Racers -What an awesome team ! You both get my vote for Yachtsmen and Yachtswomen of the Year.

[@annafraley5388]

Excellent, you both do very well with your boat over the years.. ✅ And yes, Rough sailing is much better than No sailing at all...!! 👍😎

[@terenceacton5803]

Once again - brilliant episode. I am a motor boater with 25 years experience but watching you guys makes me realise that I am pretty inexperienced. Respect👍

[@kimyoung230]

Lovely episode folks! I liked the heartbeat wildlife teaser at the end!

[@normandlandry1398]

Florence is only perfect because of her very capable (and enthusiastic) crew. Thanks for sharing some dramatic sailing conditions.

[@chrisiam2438]

Hi Matt and Amy …I discovered your channel a couple of months ago and have had periods of binge watching your posts .. Before I say any more I’ve got to say I absolutely love your content …I’m transfixed by your journeys in the vast Oceans .. I totally admire your resolve.. to add to the enjoyment I totally understand you for a change as your fellow Brits Compared to other channels on this topic you describe everything perfectly and gives us none yachting civilians a absolute better understanding of what is happening …. Once again absolutely love you content … Btw Matt is very cute 😉 Safe journey my ocean faring fellow Brits …🤙🏻🤙🏻

[@papajeff5486]

I know I’m a bit late watching; but, I have to tell you it’s great to watch and listen to real sailors. You guys are paired so well, both mighty fine at what you do, maintaining good morale and willing, with happy heart, to help each other. Thank you for sharing. Texas

[@olavthyvold2288]

Congratulations on an amazing passage. Great video!! You two are amazing

[@pmbnet]

Welcome to SA. I am in Durban if you are looking for a place to stay. When in Durban, you must have a mutton bunny-chow. You won't be disappointed.

[@brianwatson8312]

Great sail now enjoy one of the most beautiful countries in the world with the best food

[@Adogsmate4267]

Man, I love that little boat, andthat was very good photography. Because I've been in those conditions quite a bit, I felt the pounding with a shoulder shrug and the bow breaking them open. Those are very good cameras. A great sail, another enjoyable video, Florence and Captains.

[@kit2130]

Wow those shots with the waves & the yellow sky at 8:53 & again a bit later we’re screensaver worthy. So powerful & majestic, just beautiful! Be careful out there!

[@SailingYachtFlorence]

We share some of our best photos with our patrons in high resolution for use as screen savers :-)

[@billjeffery2419]

great video ,every point of sail and then some.cant wait to see south afriica with you

[@michakj4994]

14-day break with you is over. Thank you for releasing this video. I feel happy, in my difficult time, to meet you, to listen to you to watch you, to observe you and your Florence sailing across the Mozambique Channel. Before watching you sailing down the Channel I have not imagined that the voyage offshore of East Africa from Seychelles to south point of the Channel is a hugely demanding sailing. Thank you for accepting me on your channel. Live free and independent Ukraine, pray for her people and country.

[@normanrubenis7283]

Like a well oiled machine. You two are so in tune and prepared. I actually learnt quite a lot from watching this one episode, fantastic guys.

[@homemakeoverprojectsecrets1979]

Truly spectacular photography and a thrilling adventure enjoyed vicariously from my desk in grey and miserable Hertfordshire in the UK. I am now bracing myself as my desk rolls under the onslaught of the waves and the wind. What a glorious journey. Thank you both sooo much for sharing your experiences with us. Even when you're miles from home and out of sight of safe havens, you are never alone ... we're all sailing with you in spirit and rooting for you !! And being a scatterling South African I'm overjoyed you are close to the land of my birth. (scatterling ... make sure to download the music of Johnny Clegg and Savuka / Juluka - it will be fitting theme music for your African journey).

[@generossano2800]

How absolutely wonderful to love ones boat so very much and what a declaration of complete confidence that your boat can will and does take you everywhere and bring you back. That's exactly how I used to feel about my 1976, 35' Challenger Ketch while on Lake Ontario, Canada/U.S. My only hope and prayer during terrible big weather was, God, help me to stay far off the lee shore until the blow is over.

[@kiwisailor8365]

Great description, the reality of 1300 miles at sea, good single point reefing system, hope those plastic slides get a good wash and lots of silicone spray, makes them move and drop well /fast. Hopefully/maybe Afrika burn is on , would be a good escape for you's....thanks for sharing 🙏

[@suzysmith5200]

Loved the video. Love how we hear the sea and the rigging as you go along. You are both amazing sailors.

[@alienemperor]

Love how much you’re sharing about boat and sail handling in this episode, and the level of detail on that.

[@loniallorenz2009]

All we can say is WOW ! So enjoyable to follow these true sailors on their adventures 📷👀❤️😎❗️ The editing and producing are just over the top. Well Done !

[@sunline24]

I really enjoy your channel. It ain't just another T&A sailing channel on just another sandy beach.

[@donnawarmouth9329]

I’m in awe of your filming so beautiful. I can’t wait to see the upcoming episodes!!!! Thank you for taking us along.

[@iainhunneybell]

After a truly terrible day, wonderful to see you landfall and that the heavy weather teaser from last time wasn’t quite as bad as I feared. If that’s the worst you endure… Of course, I really knew you were there from the last posting, but it says something about how engaging your storytelling is that I , and others, hang on the next check-in. This week’s closing teaser is both awe inspiring and maybe a little ominous, rather like last time’s heavy weather warning. Still, you survived to include the clip in the teaser, so you must have made it 😊

[@stanleysteamcar]

That was an amazing video Amy and Matt. Your slow mo videography and dramatic music really added to the seas. Also, thank you for explaining how you operate Florence to make her the superb passage-maker that she is. Looking forward to your adventures in the wild next time.

[@boon197999]

Great videos. I’m glad you share it with us. So many channels seem to have went astray after C0V1D. You guys are still living life. 👍

[@jamesb.funkiii5647]

Such a great video! Thank you for taking the time to explain the finer points of how and why you trim, and set your sails. The music and water shots were superb! Thank you!

[@chadcwk]

Yay! Another great adventure. Is it ok that I live out my dream of sailing vicariously through you two?

[@thebermudaangle9958]

Beautiful video! In tears at the end - enjoy my stunning South Africa! 🤩🤩🤩

[@davidf9494]

Another wonderful episode as you both continue your journey around the world! Enjoy all that South Africa has to offer. Stay safe!

[@thatflightsimguy]

This channel has become so professional. Wonderful. It really is Discovery channel quality!

[@dreamtimesv]

A superb posting, great photography and editing, and appreciate the technical dialogue of your sailing strategies, gives me good ideas. One of the best sailing channels around.

[@jb6249]

Watching from Houston Texas, please be safe and blessed.

[@claussalt4140]

Got all emotional and even shed a tear when you arrived in SA. So proud of you. Best wishes from Hamble Point !

[@SailingYachtFlorence]

:-) you might see us sailing past in 2023 (current plan)

[@christianestories]

the best was the heartbead seeing the Elefant bull approaching. I had such situations already two times and my heart began immediately ro race too now hahaha

[@joeechandi5334]

So interesting, two real sailors, Amy a race sailor herself. So interesting how they handle the boat & conditions. 👍🌍🌏🌎🤙

[@TheBoatmad]

Just catching up with you guys and I love it when I do. Your channel is like watching how a sailing channel should be. You guys are great.

[@ludwigrieger7556]

Welcome to our beautiful country, hope you enjoy your stay and have great memories to take with you.

[@colinjacob1702]

Glad you made it safely, from an armchair sailor in Wales

[@bdphourde]

The more I watch you, the more I think you may know what you're doing! ;) Proper prior planning prevents piss poor performance! It is so nice not to have to worry about scrapes you get into from mistakes made. Let the land adventures begin!

[@RachaelSA]

YAY!!! welcome to South Africa. I grew up on the north coast where you guys are now.

[@boediprasetya2850]

It's amazing that the two of you with a fairly small sailing ship, sailed a long way after a few months ago had stopped in my country Indonesia. stay safe and stay safe

[@leestephens1]

Loved this episode! While I enjoy the land experiences I love the times at sea. Am learning much from your narration and videos. Thanks for great job that communicates true sailing experiences for this currently landlocked sailor!! God Bless!

[@greybeardza9197]

Welcome in South Africa. I do so hope you are enjoying your visit. The film making in this episode was spectacular - especially the late afternoon waves! I had a good laugh at the rising 'heartbeat' at the end. Everyone that has had a similar encounter with a big bull elephant will know the feeling!

[@WiseOldDope]

As a young man I was in the Navy. We left Norfolk early as a hurricane was working its way up the east coast. It turned east and caught us and we were in it for several days. Huge ship 1500 souls aboard and we strapped into our racks. God Bless Ya

[@earthangel8730]

Look at you three getting closer and closer to a well deserved 100K subs! Matt, Amy and of course, Florence, thank you for the thrilling adventures. Great episode (as usual). Just brilliant!

[@Mar-vu9nx]

Again & Again, actualy always! PERFECT VIDEO!!! Objective! FRIENDLY, the sound, the editing. Perfect handling of the s.v. Better impossible!!

[@tomdunn1254]

Welcome to South Africa. I am so glad that you arrived safely at Richard Bay. It brought a lump to my throat to see all the familiar places in that harbor and at the Yacht Club. I have spent many enjoyable hours there. Also your visit to the game reserve. (Probably the Hluhluwe/Umfolozi game reserve) We left Zulland (Empangeni) 9 years ago. Enjoy your stay.

[@mikefetterman6782]

Awesome !!!!! You two are living my current dream. I would love to sail to Aldabra between Madagascar and Seychelles, on my way around the world. Taking me back to my 3 weeks in Kenya 30 years ago,

[@tgchism]

Wonderful video as always! Glad to see the you both and Florence we up to the voyage to South Africa in the strong winds! Congratulations on a safe passage! Looking forward to seeing South Africa with you next time!

[@englishmaninfrance661]

The realest sailing channel I watch . You guys rock . This was an outstanding video .

[@garyvanzyl7498]

Welcome to South Africa! Really enjoying your videos. 🙏👍🎸🎶❤️😎

[@robertgephart7190]

Congratulations on your successful passage, and thank you for taking us along. Your planning and explanations are very helpful to my understanding of the challenges you face.

[@feefeealexy2557]

Your videos are the most amazing ever and each week we can’t wait to watch them when they come out. You have a true sailing channel and you make us feel as though we are with you on your journey. Looks a bit scary at times but definitely a wonderful experience Looking forward to learning more about your stay in South Africa next time. ❤️

[@coug96fan]

Wow! Can't wait for the next video. You two are fabulous story tellers and your video editing is getting to be top notch. Thanks for sharing

[@brianwhalen7783]

My favorite episode so far. I grew up sailing but I’m not a racer… great tips on route planning and sail handling! I can’t wait to get out on our boat and try and put some of them to good use. Great work, thank you and keep them coming! Safe sailing!

[@DD-xx8wh]

congrats! a great sailing passage episode-comments, video and editing well done!...just like being on board!- can't wait to tag along as you venture ashore.