Sailing Around Florida In 9 Days (Take the Waters) S1:E2

After years of dreaming, and months of preparation, we finally sail s/v Shonto to the sea on a nine day sailing journey from St. Petersburg, Florida, to Cape Canaveral, Florida. This is our first time sailing an ocean, our first time sailing overnight, and our first time sailing in unknown waters and ports. Anxiety is high and the stress of the trip may end our sailing dream before it starts.
0:00
1:39 Mandi Gets Surgery
3:23 Sailing St. Petersburg Florida to Marathon Island
6:35 Sailing to Rodriguez Key, Florida
8:02 Sailing to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
9:35 Sailing the Storm to Lake Worth, Florida
11:00 Sailing to Cape Canaveral, Florida
15:41 Reality for New Sailors
17:42 Our Dream of Sailing
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[@Daniel-lf3vj]

I really appreciate the honesty you guys showed about the reality of sailing for the first time. The fears you shared meant alot. My wife and i are also saving up for a sailboat. Your video definitely convinced me to go to the sailing school and start getting experience built up before i think we just sail off into the world and its going to be all fun and games.

[@black_triton9264]

Yes, do go to sail school. I can't understand why people bite off more than they can chew in matters of life & death.

[@chrisholend6463]

I was going to say the same thing about their honesty and the realism the nerves the fears a lot of people don’t show you that they just show you sailing in exotic places I love your experience as I to dream of sailing around the world one day

[@jonathonbackhouse2959]

The old sailors advice, " the most dangerous thing on the boat; the calendar!" you will laugh in years to come at this learning experience.

[@richfuller]

You are a very very lucky man. She's making you grow and really loves you.

[@TakeTheWaters]

True story, thanks - Brian

[@macinfloydvolk]

That’s how you know you chose the right sailboat. The good vessels will do that!

[@macinfloydvolk]

J0EYbagaDONUTS here is the point flying over your head 🛫👨🏻‍🦳🛬

[@davep6977]

Nice video. I'm a tech nerd and my 1st thought when you went under that bridge was a nice PTZ camera on top of the mast would be so helpful plus what a perspective while sailing or going in and out of harbors

[@TakeTheWaters]

That would be a cool idea! The only thing is we’d have to figure out how to run the power up there now that the mast is back up after our boatyard work. I’ve heard of people attaching a PVC pipe extender from the top, and out in front of the mast... so if that hits, REVERSE! ~Mandi

[@timhardman4764]

There is a lot more to the live aboard life style than passages. Lot's of experienced sailors who love the overall experience dislike the passages which are stressful, challenging and unpredictable, so they are put up with as a means to an end. These early times day sails feel like passages due to your experience level with the boat and each other as a team. A year from now you will smile when you look back on this video for many reasons but a big one will relate to the elevated experience and confidence you have in yourselves, your boat and your abilities as a team.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thank you. We’re learning this every time we get ready for another trip to an unknown place. Stress is always high. We’re getting more excited about sailing oceans these days but its still a lot. -Brian

[@sfopaladin2661]

@@TakeTheWaters yes we all have stress. We can't get through life without it. Its all on how we view it, how we react to it and how we need to embrace it, smile, and continue on with life. That first morning you got up and it was your first lesson. Your first .... Ohh noo moment. And what did you learn? From now on your first rule is????? Rule #1. If you are planning on sailing the next day, you always check the weather very closely before going to bed!! ALWAYS!!!! From now on its going to be your rule #1. This experience has taught you that. I hope that both of you never ever forget it. Fair winds & happy sailing guys! 👉👍👌😎

[@jeffbazor5286]

Nice video guys😎 Your quickly becoming one of my favorite Sailing Channels, or as my wife likes to call it “The addiction”. Safe travels. J

[@TakeTheWaters]

Jeff Bazor Haha, the addiction!, love it! So much more to come, we hope you continue to enjoy! - Mandi

[@muzaaaaak]

If success were easy, everyone would be doing it. Stay the course and better yourself. As the fastest path to failure is quitting.

[@TakeTheWaters]

You're absolutely right!! And if you never try, that's a sure fire way to fail. Still not easy, but we're still going - and it's been worth it! ~Mandi

[@Jensen_Denmark]

This is such a great story and the quality of the video is amazing. And when he went down on hes knees for her, my eyes got really wet - thanks for sharing guys... Thanks!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thank you so much!! We really do put a lot of time in to these videos because we want them to be great quality with real content - so it means so much for the recognition on that. My eyes got wet when he got on his knees too! ~Mandi

[@mathewdavis-adventuresandd6643]

You may be inexperienced at the posting of this video, but honestly, neither of you strike me as being knuckleheads. I personally think you did a fine job. With experience comes confidence and confidence requires getting out there and getting experiencing. I taught myself how to sail on a tiny Snark having never read a book about sailing or having ever touch a sailboat before the Snark. Well, it was a good thing I started on a Snark because I grounded it several times that first day and even nearly knocked myself unconscious with the boom. Thirty years and Six small sailboats later and I'm ready to live the dream you two have already started.

[@OriginalJetForMe]

Okay I really want that poster in the opening shot.

[@liongod1000]

*_ Hi guys, Newbies always go through the whole thing of "The Brain is thinking too much" about this and that and am I doing it right and are we safe....... BUT, when it all becomes Second nature you're going to enjoy it and look forward to all the "Next Trips" as though it was like cooking Potatoes! Fair winds and Following Seas to you!! _*

[@TakeTheWaters]

Looking forward to those potatoes lol! Thanks for the encouragement. - Brian

[@beverlydwyer5162]

I totally admire you guys taking life by the seat of the pants and doing very well

[@nevillelawrance1142]

Loved the story, looking forward to the adventure. Stay Safe and live the life

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thanks Neville.

[@edmund6392]

This episode is very important for all beginning cruisers. Thanks for making it.

[@clairesorg2486]

I love how you put all of this together. Great story telling! The realities of making dreams come true is honest and inspiring. You make a good team.

[@TakeTheWaters]

haha - I see what you did there - Brian

[@Jamdigi]

Hi guys. I just found your channel today. Love it already. Brian I just have to say how much I admire the level of vulnerability you show here to the world. It's so affirming to men everywhere to be so honest and open about how you were feeling during and about this first trip. It will take time to gain confidence but you'll get there. Really you guys are doing an amazing thing together and supporting each other so much. This is the second vlog of yours that I've seen and I'll surely be keeping up to date with you as you experience the world. Hope to be living the same dream as you some time in the near future. I'd really like that one day our paths may cross and we can share some stories of our travels and experiences. James

[@TakeTheWaters]

Dang it James, you got me right in the feels lol. I really appreciate your words, and read it out loud to Mandi. Let’s keep making adventures that maybe we’ll be able to share one day. -Brian

[@jiefflerenard1228]

I have been around sailboats since I could walk, old now I watch lots of sailing videos and I assure you there is something different about yours ,You have barely started your adventure and I am already hypnotized .Please keep sharing I think you will be successful,you are doing it right, honesty is the way. Best wishes

[@TakeTheWaters]

Love reading this comment!! Thank you so much, it feels reassuring to us on our decision to share our real experiences on this life changing journey when you hear something like this. Our journey has since been affected by the covid pandemic, and are currently docked and working in a totally different location, saving money to continue long-term sailing since we're behind now, and waiting for countries to open their borders again. Season 2 is coming out soon, so more on what's been happening to come :) ~Mandi

[@pault8184]

I so much wished i had the oppotunity to do this in my 30's - 40's!!! BUT hoping to do this in my 60's? never sailed but never to old?

[@TakeTheWaters]

If I've learned anything over the course of sailing the last two years, it's that it wouldn't have mattered if I did it now, or when I was 60. The cruising life puts things in perspective, things you take for granted living on land like spending time with friends and family, or having shelter from a storm. I suppose what I'm saying is when the time is right, go, it is awesome! But in the meantime, you probably have a good thing going on land too. -Brian

[@justincase5272]

As for having fun, the sailing itself is just a relatively cheap way to travel all over and live while you're traveling. Sure, sailing is fun, particularly when you're used to your boat and working with it instead of against it. It's a lot like learning to drive or more like flying an airplane. You're going to be white-knuckled the first 50 to 100 hours, but after that, when you and the boat are one, it's just an extension of yourself. When you're driving, you don't think about all the steps you need to take while pulling into a rest stop any more than a pilot worries over fuel mixture full-rich, flaps down, gear down, approach speed, glide path and runway alignment. They just happen and when winds push you off, you correct without thinking and grease her down on the runway. Your boat will feel like that, too, perhaps sooner, perhaps later, but you will get there. At THAT point, sailing is no longer nerve-wracking, even in a storm. You're just moving along, going from one location of interest to the next. In fact, take a class on storm sailing and practice sailing reefed and furled. It just becomes like driving in windy, rainy conditions on the road. You slow down a bit, peer ahead, and take it easy. But sailing is the journey to your destinations, not the destination itself. You could spend a year touring Florida alone, but if I were where you are, I'd figure out where I wanted to go next. Up the coast in the summer? Be a leaf-peeper in the New England states in the fall? Pop on over to Bermuda for a month, then down to the Bahamas and Virgin Islands? Or across to Europe for a winter in the Mediterranean? LOTs to do and see! And don't forget the basics of being on a boat: At anchor, snorkeling, fishing, and enjoying a small beach fire with lobster and crab. Swims at sunrise and sunset... :) I'm looking forward to following your journeys!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Ohhhh, you've hit everything on the head with what we've gone through so far. White-knuckled at first, and now feeling much more comfortable. Still a lot of boat work to do, but it's getting easier all the time. Covid affected a lot of our sailing plans, much more about that in season 2 [hope you watch :) ], and we are currently about to be those leaf-peepers! Bermuda, Bahamas, Virgin Islands... yesss!! Those are on our list of destinations!! Hope you keep watching and continue to enjoy the videos :) ~Mandi

[@SVSecondChance]

I will tell you this my last Comment I said you all have big balls. No sailing experience Buying a boat that big And going for it now you're starting to see why. I've been sailing my whole life my dad put me on a Hobey cat when I was 4 years old. Before I bought my 1st big boat I spent 3 years sailing a 36 for Catalina for a guy as crew. And every time I untie the lines It's still scary. If you look at the last video the SVDelos put out He talks about still being nervous every time he leaves and he sailed around the world the amount of miles he has put in is = 3 times around the equator. 90% of the people that buy a boat to go cruising never leave the dock for this reason. If you look at my KZbin channel you'll see why my boat was very Badly damaged during hurricane erma 3 years ago we're still trying to put it back together. Is it worth it? H*** yes. Is it hard? H*** yes. Is it scary? hell yes. that never goes away but it is so worth it the people you meet the places you see And the things you get to do I'm dying to get back out there. And I was in a category 4 hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico and I still want to go it's very worth it don't give up. If I had known that you were leaving from Saint Pete and looking for crew I would've gone with you. Because I live in Saint Pete. My boat is anchored out in Madeira Beach right now. It is worth it Do not give up.

[@SVSecondChance]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGHbpHqnrZaSjK8 here is Delos video he but out yesterday

[@dwk5234]

Hi to both of you, and congrats on making things happen in your lives! Having sailed quite a few sizes and types of boats over the past 50 years, my one bit of advice for you is to go sail a small boat when you can. The task you’ve undertaken is daunting, as you’re in charge of something that involves people’s lives and a very sizable financial investment. Imagine that the captain of that Airbus A320 you ride on as a passenger had learned to fly in that plane. She or he would’ve missed what it feels like to pull back on the stick to leave the ground by themselves or with just one passenger, the smell of freshly cut grass when lining up for final approach, “feeling” for the ground as the planes nose is held off during landing. There is a joy, immediacy and confidence that comes from sailing a small boat, and the actions of sails, waves and rudder are all so close and personal, no autopilot, nav programs or engine-just you and the clouds, wind and waves to read and react to. You’ve done a wonderful job of learning how to maneuver, sail, and navigate a big boat-and all of those things can be fun and challenging-but as a first sailing experience they may be too removed and automated for you to derive much joy and satisfaction from them. Just my 2 cents worth-take some time out to experience and get comfortable with a small boat (preferably under 17 feet or so) and then go back to sailing your Beneteau.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Hi there. Thanks for this comment. I mentioned this to Mandi this morning as we were talking about our upcoming sail. We’ve done a few bigger sails after this video but I still get very anxious before we leave. Its comforting to know other sailors are experiencing the same things. And thats also the point of our videos, we want to tell our honest feeling as much as possible. That’s something you don’t see on KZbin much. Its all the good stuff and when someone quits sailing they just disappear off youtube. - Brian

[@SVSecondChance]

@@TakeTheWaters It is good to see the honest opinion of people. And some of us disappear off a KZbin for other reasons. Mine was hurricane Irma. But we are starting the refit this summer and will be filming it. And if all goes well We will get back out there. Don't get me wrong after being stuck in a category 4 hurricane and having to be rescued by Coastguard It was truly a little depressing And we had to do some soul searching to see if this is really something we wanna do. It is We both miss it very much.

[@TakeTheWaters]

I couldn't even comprehend being in that. Wishing you the best in the future. -Brian

[@BasedAnatoliy]

I’m in Florida now, down on Marco island exploring. I would love to get coffee anywhere in Florida to ask some questions and learn.

[@OriginalJetForMe]

"You can use the electric winch if you want!" *effortful grinding* "Nah it's okay.…But where is it?"

[@jameslewis3594]

I have the same dream, congratulations on making it real. I’ve never been on a sailboat or the ocean, but it’s calling my soul.

[@BasedAnatoliy]

I hope I find a girl to sail with some day that will stick through the storms! 🙌🏼

[@hmallett]

2:38 - 2:48 Sneaky edit ;)

[@BasedAnatoliy]

Wow this is one of the best sailing channels I have seen!! I just bought an S2 7.3 to learn to sail and it’s been an amazing experience. This is sooo inspirational!! Definitely subscribed. I hope our paths cross some day.

[@WHennessy-oo6tb]

Hi Bryan and Mandi Russell ! ;) Greeting's from The Emerald Isle. Just happened to Sail across your Take The Waters...Watched.....Thought how Lucky you are to Find Each other. Such pleasant couple...Enjoy Sailing... Remember To Follow ALL The Necessary Rules + SafeGuards... Because they are there to Protect + Save Lives. Keep Watch...which will initially be the tough job with just two of you. But, you may decide to Take on Crew either Paying, Experience, Or, Patrons. Just Be Careful. Buy inflatable Life Vests After Watching your Mayo Clinic Ep i was struct by seeing those Two Medical Braces... Please excuse my asking But i have never seen Those Particular Medical Braces before in my Journey in Life. May i ask why those Medical Braces were placed in you Mandi ? When i Subsequently Watched as you Pulled Lines and so forth, i was saying to myself "Stop Be Careful, Mandi !" But, like a Typical Irish Lass you were Happy, Getting on with it, And, creating your Joint Dream Boat. Which, i hope you will enjoy. Best Advice Read Up on Your Future Ports of Call; Listen to First Hand experience of People who have Sailed where you are going. Avoid The Orca Whales in The Bay Of Biscay French West Coast extending down as far of Morocco, they have Sunk three Yachts, Damaged The Rudder's on Several other Yacht's, And, Orca have been Attacking Yachts EnDangering Sailors on The West Coast Of Europe down as far as Africa. Of course Orca Whales Or Killer Whales can be found in several Areas Around Our SHARED HOME EARTH. However, just the Western European Orca Whales have learnt a New Dangerous Behaviour EnDangering Yachts. If you take your Yacht out on the Hard you may think to Strengthen your Rudder with Stainless Steel with Stainless Steel Spikes on the Outer Edge , which is the Area the Western European Orca have been Attacking. That was the Practical suggestion. But, first you will probably Sail The Caribbean islands. Do you have Anchor Alarms? You may require Two to Help you Sleep Peacefully And secured to a Mooring Or Anchor. From your First Episode, i see you have a Love between you, which will make your Channel different. Oh The Irish Fun! Looking forward to reading + seeing more from you both... Remember be yourselves. Regards Liam Hennessy

[@justincase5272]

As for Weather: Good call on pulling into Lake Fort Worth! OpenCPN supports GRIB and GRIB2 file input and display for weather forecasting: opencpn.org/wiki/dokuwiki/doku.php?id=opencpn:opencpn_user_manual:plugins:weather

[@svZia-Switch51]

When cruising, you will experience the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. This is what makes the lifestyle so great. Landlubbers lives their lives stuck in the middle zone and many are barely aware that they are alive. Sailors live on those outer edges and we are constantly reminded that we are alive! Enjoy and see you out there.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Nothing like being in the open ocean, and at the mercy of nature, to make you realize you are LIVING!! Fairwinds, friends! ~Mandi

[@diyitall2023]

That alarm Beeping. I thought it was the hospital monitorand not the boat starting up..I was like oh no...can you imagine after so close to your dream something health related stops you in your tracks...life is so unpredictable....I stress daily over small things and sometimes i have to remind my self im not in control of anything...not even my own life.

[@oNeWiCkEd1]

Followd sv delos for a year now, and you guys , just like them made an instant feeling of genuine truth. My secend video i have seen from you, but it def wont be my last. god bless!

[@TakeTheWaters]

So cool - thank you so much for saying! When we decided to make videos of our sailing journey, first thing was we wanted to be real and genuine; so really love that you were able to feel that. Hope you keep enjoying the videos :) ~Mandi

[@bobhamilton298]

Good luck folks. You had like no problems compared to what I normally see sailing. And you are already doubting its going to be fun. You should sell the boat and just charter once a year. Or do what I do. Own a home, have a home base and sail weekends and perhaps a long 2-3 week trip a year. If you can work from the boat, you can certainly extend the time of your trips. But wait until you get into lugging groceries, doing laundry on shore, using a dinghy as your only transportation, having to find your way around port towns to hopefully get to stores before they close for provisioning. If you think its not fun now, just wait. It gets worse!

[@mikejmardis]

Bro! It’s not fun. It’s accomplishment. It’s the suck that makes it all worth while. Welcome to the life of a soldier. The journey makes it worth while. Otherwise, why live?

[@anthonyjarvis9472]

New to your chanmel, you guys seem really genuine, its nice to watch someone learning to live their dream. Good luck and have fun, i wish you both all the best.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Anthony Jarvis Thanks so much!! Happy to hear you enjoyed watching, and hope you enjoy more to come ☺️ - Mandi

[@howelljo1098]

I am about 4 years behind you with the same dream. Im older, but feel the same passion and fear. Thanks for the honesty

[@TakeTheWaters]

We think showing the honesty in the journey is very important - glad you can appreciate! Hope you get to sail the seas soon! ~Mandi

[@01dumbfrog]

Oh, close to ten years? Really... I've lived the last 13 years aboard mine.

[@pathfindergeorgia1117]

You both make a great team in life. I respect your emotions you both share and see that you compliment each other. Life will get better and the hard shit will slowly diminish with time. I have started to bing watch and have subscribed to your channel which I find refreshing. Thanks for what your doing which has allowed me to live vicariously through you adventures.

[@01dumbfrog]

I have found the sweet spot for trolling a fishing lure is right at 26 - 30' behind the boat.

[@reknas78]

This is going to fun watching you two grow. Love to sail, sail to love!

[@jason1938]

Don’t be such a Debby downer you cave a chance to live a dreams. Any worth having is hard to get. Hutch up your girdle put on some big boy pants and live the dream.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Ugh, I’ve been looking everywhere for a pair of big boy pants.

[@JohnHosemannRocket]

You guys have inspired my wife and I to learn to sail. We bought a 1977 30' Pearson ⛵ and sailed the Florida coast, but decided to sell it, because we wanted something a little newer with more room. We are open to feedback on our videos, if anyone has time to check out our channel. I found filming while sailing is a lot of work. Good for you guys for making it happen. Hope to see you out there soon. 😀

[@TakeTheWaters]

Awesome to hear of the inspiration! Good on you all for sailing the coast of Florida. We really love the size of ours, our 46, find we have plenty of room. Filming and sailing is definitely a lot of work, and more work still is editing them - both sailing and filming is a full time job! -Mandi

[@svtrilogywestsail3278]

Sailing is 23 hours of boredom and 1 hour of oh my God we are going to die. lol after that it's fixing you boat in exotic places

[@mikecasey8950]

Trip to Fort Worth.....that was a "storm"??? Sail with us in Nova Scotia, that's light winds.

[@marlinpruett8343]

You take everything at heart shit happens ride with it Take it easy I am 80 and things like this is just a learning experience Have fun

[@drivingmsali]

What a great journey! Very similar to ours. Are you guys from MN? I saw the Mayo Clinic in the vid. I'm from Rochester..

[@TakeTheWaters]

We're from Florida; the Mayo Clinic was in Arizona where I had a Nuss Procedure done. We took a flight and had this done in the midst of it all! Glad you enjoyed the journey, and so cool you are having one too! Fairwinds, friend :) ~Mandi

[@tonyaustin4629]

I am not a sailor, but perhaps go under bridges only a peak low tide wherever there is a question of feet or inches?

[@michaeljohnston2806]

Nice job and congratulations on your boat, your channel, and living the dream! I''ll be watching because I'm going to be where you are at some point in the next couple of years. Taken the ASA courses and doing the 105 course right now, just don't have a boat! Yours is beautiful, just like what I dream of. Embrace the moment, live in the moment, and enjoy life's blessings.

[@TakeTheWaters]

I did the ASA 103 myself before owning a boat. But the real learning starting once I owned the boat. Like learning what to do when the macerator explodes lol. Thanks for watching - Brian

[@jamesclements9448]

Hey guys. I am somewhat new sailing. New enough, that I find it hard to relax and enjoy the experience for the constant concern of too much heel, making decisions, and concern for the weather. I'm so new that I am not yet comfortable inviting friends aboard for a day out. So, what I really enjoyed about this video and what I think is unique is the moment of vulnerability you show at 15:34. Most sailing channels don't show the trepidation of new sailors. That "what did I just get into" and "this is supposed to be fun". I can relate to this more than the seasoned and salty channels that have been out for years.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Hi James! Wow, really love reading this comment. One, its nice to know that someone finds this relatable - but also its nice for US to know that we aren’t the only ones either. A major point of our channel from the get-go was to be as honest, even if making us seem vulnerable, as possible. It’s not always easy, especially in the beginning, and it feels good to show that real side as well. Luckily enough, its true what they say - you do get more comfortable with time! I use to be pretty weary about heeling over a lot, and now it seems natural. I use to be overly concerned when other boats (especially tankers) were near (and by near i mean if a tanker was a mile away 🤣), and now i know what to expect, and feel confident in how to handle the vessel. Keep on sailing, you’ll be happy you did and will feel comfortable soon enough. Fairwinds, James! ~Mandi

[@adrianlemcke7277]

Hi. You guys look and sound like a lovely young couple who are going out of your way to live the dream. If you want to see how you will look when you're in your mid 70s look up Jack and Jude (jackandjude.com/) who are a lovely older couple that have been living your dream for most of their lives. When I met them in South West Tasmania they sounded as young and optimistic and enthusiastic as you do now. Living on the water will keep you young of heart and strong of body. If you make it to Australia make sure you get down to Jervis Bay you will see why when you get there, that's where my yacht is. And no Jack and Jude are not paying me!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Hi Adrian! Jack and Jude seem awesome. And couldn’t agree more, water life will keep you young at heart and strong if body! We hope to make it to that side of the equator some day! -Mandi

[@maccoolmac5191]

So if you get in bad weather. Just remember, you will break, before the boat will.

[@jamiebuechler8833]

OMG! I cried so hard at the end! Congrats you two. Life is full of challenges. Just because you take a step back does not mean you can’t jump forward. Each challenge give us knowledge, wisdom and character. Embrace them. You will look back in a few years and know that each challenge was tough then, now easy. If life was unfulfilled, you’d never leave the house. You give us viewers courage to to try own sailing adventure!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thank you so much for saying so!!! Very proud of everything we've overcome together, and you're right, we're already looking back on some things happily, and with much less stress. Happy to hear we are helping spread some courage! ~Mandi

[@alin_b2s]

First minute and a half - this is me now. Thank you for your words!

[@samvohra6992]

You guys are living your dream so beautifully.... Love and Respect for you.... Stay safe guys 💕

[@TakeTheWaters]

Sam Vohra Thank you, we’ll do our best 💖 - Mandi

[@jvodan]

Next time you are in seemingly big seas you will feel a bit more secure because of your last experience. It time you will get to trust your boat and your selves

[@TakeTheWaters]

If this isn't absolutely true! We feel like each time we go out we either meet something bigger/different, just to go out the next time in a similar situation and it feels like a breeze. I know I have so much more respect and confidence in our boat (and ourselves!) ~Mandi

[@robertlee8042]

How do you get 25k subscribers on your first video? If your boat has the same handling as mine you can turn that rhing on a dime without thrusters just by pulsing the motor forward and backward using prop wash. It’s magical.

[@TakeTheWaters]

There are some other videos we’ve had out before the sailing videos started, but we’ve also received great response from our sailing videos! Yes, our boat turns on a dime too! ~Mandi

[@garysherman7396]

16:41 this man tweakin

[@jmewilson737]

Hey just came across your channel. Looking forward too all future episodes and fun to come. Who were the extras? Friends? And why did the one guy leave? Was he seasick?

[@johnadams5290]

You weren't sure you could clear that bridge?

[@zero_to_sailor]

Your uploads just get better and that Oscar winning ending, genious ! Congratulations to you both !

[@TakeTheWaters]

GM01 Thank you! This comment makes me very happy. - Brian

[@ABeriault]

Well done Shonto! Thats what life is all about, even when one is not on sail boat! Maybe one day you will follow UMA, DELOS & SAIL LIFE....because your courage and filming are great! By the way check ou SAMPSON boat...for courage and passion! Be Covid safe Cheers

[@simonball3067]

Hey guys take a chill pill. It's early days and you're still on a major learning curve. As you commented in the video, it must be fun, otherwise other people wouldn't be doing it. You'll look back in twelve months time and wonder what all the fuss was about.

[@12FlyVA]

Bravo. Thanks for taking me along on your journey. Especially enjoy your heartful discussions with one another and your honest thoughts of conquering a huge challenge. Like you I have long to live the boating life, and my goal is to live aboard (powerboat) and to move around Florida and the Caribbean in the winters. We both retired in Dec and have the resources to buy a boat and pay for our travels, but there is one problem - my spouse does not share my dream of living on a boat. As you said, do I put "US" first, if I do, this will results in a lost dream that I know I will regret for the rest of my life. Unfortunately, there seems to be no path to getting her onboard. The only path I see is to go off on my boating adventure solo for the winter months, then return and spend the rest of the year with my wife. Maybe this compromise will work and for now, it seems my only choice. You two are lucky, that your dreams are following the same path. I look forward to your adventures.

[@TakeTheWaters]

I’m glad you enjoyed coming along on our journey! The boating life can definitely be difficult, and if you’re both not on the same page I could imagine how it would not be fun. Have you tried taking her out with a chartered captain, so she can see how she’d like it? Or maybe you could solo captain to a destination and she could come fly out and live-aboard with you? We often talk about getting a trawler in the distant future - perhaps she would feel comfortable on a vessel like this? It feels good to live out your passions and dreams, and having your spouse in support of them feels even better. I hope you two can find a compromise together - and that she can find a way to join in!! ~Mandi

[@12FlyVA]

@@TakeTheWaters Thank you so much for the advice. Trying a charter is a great idea. I have been doing a lot of research on trawlers/aft cabins. Having her fly out and vacation with me on the boat would be great - I think she may be open to short visits, just not "living" on a boat. Thanks again and I look forward to your next videos.

[@hrm350694]

I was stationed in Key West, Ponce de Leon, Port Canaveral (where cruise ships dock) and Key West from 63-73 in the Coast Guard. Enjoyed your videos.

[@Grimberian72]

your comfort and confidence levels are only now starting to rise! as you gain more experience your comfort levels will rise too! love the vid's

[@Thebink21]

Nice job on the video. Boy, you guys really jumped in! You will have a combination of challenging but mostly wonderful experiences. Stay vigilant & stay safe.....err on caution....your sailing resumes will grow...grow...grow.... God Bless You.

[@NapFloridian]

Sailing, traveling, changing jobs if you wanna call it a challenge is or can be a thrill... Now some people like that kind of thrill other rather have the rat race in a square box (city) and live a "comfortable" live in a secure space a phone call away from help. Once you hit the ocean or are out and about sometimes its just you against the world. I hope you guys realize that as it will get hard sometimes out on the open ocean. However, once you overcome the fair to fail things gwt easier. But remember "Fun" during a trip is not what you want its arriving to a brand new place and its then when you have fun.

[@jeffc6038]

That boat you are sailing can handle anything if you prepre the sails right less sails is always better and try stay away from been there on time and up wind sailing in storms.Dont forget if it was easy everyone would be doing it welcome to the sailing world you are going to love it.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Mandi loves reefing, she’s got that down. And thanks, we are loving it! ~Brian

[@philstevens6224]

You seemed to do more motoring than sailing - or was that just the way the clip told it. It is hard but you need to learn how to SAIL not motor. All the very best.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Unfortunately this trip had more motoring sailing than we wanted, but we got some sail time in. There was a timeline for us delivering the boat to it's new location (we know, sailing on a timeline is a no no), and wind on our nose most of the time didn't help. Different circumstances would have brought some different sailing :) -Mandi

[@doubleuponbob3397]

9:20 No offense, but I think Marion left because he got too much of living with white people in close quarters.

[@TakeTheWaters]

I never considered that, could be possible lol. -B

[@RickMentore]

Just fantastic! Eager to see your upcoming adventures!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thanks so much, Rick! We’ve had many more since this video - hope you enjoy them too if you get a chance to give them a peak. -Mandi

[@markperry4220]

Ok so now what ? Please don’t give up. You will never forgive yourself. Instead raise to the challenge and don’t look back. Sailing is a complete life change from living the normal 9-5 job and home life. You’ve only just begun !! I never looked back on any of my journeys and I never feared the unknown. Just sail on and enjoy !! ⛵️⛵️👍🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thanks, Mark!! We’re still sailing on! We’ve found ourselves sailing all around this side of the Atlantic. More episodes soon on how far we’ve come. We’re enjoying this life and don’t plan on quitting anytime soon :) ~Mandi

[@markperry4220]

Take the Waters That’s great news. So is it fun yet ? Thank you for responding!!

[@Brewdiss]

Were in the Mudd. Not the worst thing to be in. 🤘😎

[@darleneanderson8499]

Again did an awesome job. The journey continues for sure.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Darlene Anderson Thank you! And indeed it does! - Mandi

[@idgafnation8620]

OMFG I love you guys! YOP! found my new channel of happiness and fun! SUBSCRIBED!

[@trevorbyron8181]

Every new venture is like going uphill...and it's a struggle to keep at it. We want to quit...but you keep going until you reach a break-in point. It's right there where the see saw flips and we start going down and the joy starts...and we start seeing through the struggle we went through and appreciating it.

[@sailingnomad4963]

Wave heights are based on the 66% average. 33% will be higher... up to 2x the 66%. So the forecast was spot on.

[@timwoodman]

You guys are fantastic. I have to admit my eyes started leaking when you got down on your knee and proposed. Congrats and good luck. Clear sky’s and fair seas.

[@geroidmartin7946]

This seemed like an incredible journey. And very inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@SailingPauHana]

What we saw in this video is, A GREAT TEAM. You two are a great team. The way she “talked you off the ledge” was awesome. Kudos to you guys. We have experienced those very same feelings when rushed to get somewhere....that’s a good lesson to have early on. Great video.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Hi there! Thanks for saying so; we feel we make a really great team too. I think it's true of a lot of people who start sailing, having these apprehensive feelings that people just don't talk about or want to admit. We really want to show ALL the feelings had, from the very beginning. I hope that it makes anyone else wanting to start this, or have already started, to know that its normal to have those feelings and that you CAN still keep going and have it be all worth it. Looks like you all are avid sailors too! See you've had your avoidance of a tropical storm - we had one form right on us a few months back (video on that soon). Fairwinds, friends! ~Mandi

[@coleayoder]

Some how found your channel amongst the clutter of content. Thanks, I've enjoyed the story you have thus shared and can relate to the truths told in this episode. Good luck to you both and congrats!

[@HeidiandFranny]

Really enjoyed the video. Thanks so much for sharing! You two are going to do great. Don't forget, you totally accomplished what you set it to on this trip. Looking forward to your adventure :)

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thank you. We're still going and have a lot more to come. - Brian

[@M-Swede]

12:50 very close to our house. We do a lot of diving off of Boynton Beach. Enjoyed the video. Thanks.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thanks - How far out are the reefs there? - Brian

[@M-Swede]

Take the Waters They are generally 3/4 of a mile out from the beach. The reefs mostly start at 45 feet and the deepest reefs are at 75 feet. There are deeper dives down to 120 but they are mostly wreck dives and a little farther out.

[@homeoncrystalridge]

Hats off to her for bouncing back after that surgery so quickly. Those bars look like the same procedure they did on me about 5 years back. The recovery was pretty painful the first week or so if I remember correctly. Great job chasing your dream!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Yeah, the recovery was definitely painful for that first week - but thankfully nothing like compared to when they first put the bars in. Still wan't feeling back to normal when we went around, but I really wanted to be there for it so I did my best :) . Thanks, and hope you enjoy the videos! ~Mandi

[@jensjacobfoged9147]

You got what it takes to make it.

[@skipperrichman4278]

ya, pancakes on the water

[@dennisfromoz6436]

Wow, and Wow again. You pair have the spirit inside....well done guys.

[@mangodave45]

There are fantastic weather apps, lesson learned, wasn't that bad, good experience.

[@kz4506]

We’ve done it twice and it’s not easy yes leaving port is hard , but get on with it set sail get going on with the plan

[@SlideFireGaming]

What you two are doing is much more than just sailing your finally living for what might be the first time in a long time. The joy will come and more fear surely will come as well but that is what truly living is... a mixture of high intensity emotions with its own ups and downs. Now, all you need to do is slow slow slow down. You are still used to the rat race but that is now gone so remember slow slow slow and you will begin to see what is around you for the first time in a long time (I cant stress this enough this is one of the hardest parts of transitioning to a full time sailor). Good luck and remember always keep the stick pointing up!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Indeed. We did take a break after this, time to relax. I cant say that it lasted too long, but I totally understand what you're saying. -Brian

[@jeremykamel9655]

Make sure your depth settings are all set the same on all devices. Chart plotter, depth sounder, tablet/phone/PC apps. You choose the setting of “depth of water” or “depth under the keel”. But choose wisely and stay consistent across devices and apps to avoid confusion when approaching shallows. “Only two sailors in my experience never ran aground. One never left port and one was an atrocious liar.” Don Bamford

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thanks for the advice! Love that quote, it's so true. We soft grounded once on our way down to Lake Worth, right as we were pulling out of our evenings anchorage. We've been up and down the ICW since then, and haven't grounded again. Fingers crossed it stays that way! ~Mandi

[@danieledelman6089]

Just found your channel and first off like to congratulate you on chasing your dream! Take your time experience will come to you both enjoy the journey and each other as you build a lifetime of memories. I also live on the East Coast of Florida and if ever need a hand or advice (all us Old Sailors always have some) feel free to reach out.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thanks so much, Daniel!! One thing we love is the how helpful and friendly the sailing community can be - just the sort of thing you'd like to see more of in the world. ~Mandi

[@thomasalexander8499]

When I start watching a Vlog I have rarely felt such a connection with the Bloggers....it has been a pick me up at a great time. I'm old now and wishing I would have done something like this but my life's path was a LOT different. I have a beautiful family and memories but have always had the wanderlust...through logs like this I get a chance to live it still. Very fresh and enjoyable and I am anxious to see where this goes. Nice smiles both of you!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Wow! Love to hear that you are feeling a connection with us and our experiences. Sounds like you've had a beautiful life too :) . Hope you continue to enjoy the journey with us! ~Mandi

[@svcinderella2413]

Sailing a 45ft sailboat 30 years Living the Dream This is My favorite video ever watched LOVE THE WE PART Thank you great video

[@TakeTheWaters]

Awesome!!! So glad to hear you loved this video!! We're always about we, this is a journey we're taking together and we'll always support each other. Hope you continue to enjoy our journey and videos. Thirty years of sailing, well done! Keep living he dream! ~Mandi

[@debeatz1012]

who bought the boat ?

[@mrmarcocecchi74]

it's like riding a bicycle. When you're 4 you look at the bike and you think that there's no way you gonna balance on that thing....then you try....and when you get it you'll never forget. Sailing it's the same. Once the fear goes out it's pure chill and pure fun!!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Your'e right! Being so new, it was intimidating, and you couldn't help but to wonder if you made the right decision. We've kept sailing, and it gets better all the time. Let the sailing and chilling commence! ~Mandi

[@jeremykamel9655]

On fishing, take advice from Sailing SV Delos. Get gloves and use hand lines while you’re underway. Thicker line and you’ll lose less gear not having a reel. Please only take what you need from the ocean.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Absolutely! We've got gloves now. And we'll only ever take what we need :) ~Mandi

[@TheKandyGuy]

sweeet end to the video my man... keep up to your words.. keep up to you and your wife dreams..Happy sailing.. do not give up, if the sailing is peace of cake then it will not be fun, for that matter everything if easy no fun.All you got to think is how to do it safe, dont think this day this time we need to be there, that is not so good, check the weather before you plan your trips, then go form there. Be safe and happy sailing to you guys, till the next video.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thanks so much!! And if it was easy, everyone would be doing it. It's challenging, but also very rewarding. Fairwinds, friend! We hope you keep enjoying the videos and the journey with us ~Mandi

[@rfdinesen4027]

Take your time. No one, and I mean no one, knows what it's like to be in the captains position. The difference between being ultimately in charge and secondary in charge is huge. If you don't believe me stay onshore and have the second in command be the first.

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thanks for that, and you're absolutely right. You can hear what people have to say all day long; most supportive, but some not so much. But if you haven't been there yourself, you just don't know. Hope you continue to enjoy the videos and the journey :) ~Mandi

[@markayers5397]

You asked a huge amount of yourselves, you accomplished it, you lived and learned. your comfort level will increase with your experience. Your Journey has just begun, be true to yourselves and you can never be defeated. We all only have so much time here.... live it well! God Bless!

[@TakeTheWaters]

Thank you Mark! - Brian

[@TheBeggFamily]

Stick with it and it’ll get easier!

[@TakeTheWaters]

It certainly has been getting easier! The more you get familiar and confident, the easier it gets. ~Mandi