This didn't End Well in MADAGASCAR

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Don't Ever Grow Up,
Ben. Ashley. Willa. Bodhi.

[@SailingNahoa]

Did we give too much? Are we too naive? Could we have done better? We have a lot of lingering questions. Would love to hear your thoughts.

[@dpjbdpjb]

I get it, it feels good, I did it in the Philippines but Personally, I feel you are putting your lives at risk.

[@John-pn7bh]

No one can judge if you gave too much or too little, or at least no one should. Do with YOUR stuff as it pleases YOU.

[@ZHUHAI100]

Ultimately, the most important thing is to be mindful of the specific needs and circumstances of the person (s) you are trying to help, and to offer support in a way that is meaningful and appropriate for their situation, i think you guys always do that well - good that you are travelling with another boat right now - stay safe

[@joanjackson2170]

Loved seeing that lady braiding your hair. A gift to you. Each gift made a difference for that person so it matters. I ‘m trying to think of gifts you could carry that are small but improve their lives like fish hooks and lines. Water was a fabulous gift for these people. You guys are awesome taking calculated risks.

[@CaptAdam500]

I've been and worked in those parts. Be careful. It's all fine until it isn't and things change so quickly. We're tempted to look at the world through our own eyes driven from experiences where we were raised. You are not where you were raised and local culture/custom is not what you may assume. There are ways to deliver charity without putting yourself (and your family) at risk. We all wish the world were perfectly safe and some parts are safer than others. But this isn't one of them. Sorry to be a downer, i'm sure the experience was magical. I just don't want to read a news article about a sailing family gone missing.

[@waughthogwaugh3078]

I cannot just pass this video by without offering A WARNING. You are entering a cultural area that I was raised in. Please be aware that when foreign tourists arrive in these parts with such admirable and charitable intentions they simply UPSET THE BALANCE by making random handouts. These people work hard for the little they have and expect to barter/bargain for the trades they make. Tourists often feel pity and overpay for roadside foodstuff, souvenirs and trinkets as a way of being charitable. This is actually found to be insulting and leaves an expectation for the next tourist that comes along. Running out of choice handout items will create a frenzy that will result in people helping themselves to whatever you have. When people approach you, simply ask them what they have for sale, you may have to ask several times, it is a good starting point, then drive a hard bargain. This way both parties win and walk away smiling, and you would have helped more than you realise... Simply handing gear out will lead to mob type trouble, the queue is endless and guys at the back of the line will demand, or just take their "fair" share. Keep your 'riches' out of sight below and lock up entry points and outboard motors and fishing rods etc. Love your videos, thank you so much for sharing your adventures. Keep your family safe and enjoy this wonderful area. Grant

[@stephaniejane8335]

This needed to be said!

[@nicoarnold2200]

Very well said. I am from Africa as well and agree.

[@clownbooface2624]

Facts, i live in africa, sometimes u need to be cruel to be kind.

[@oceanafricasafari9908]

Totally agree - handouts are patronising gestures that diminish the receiver and allow the giver to feel good (and dominant). Honest barter and not pity the poor fisherman who have a richness of family/community, culture and spirituality that you can hardly imagine. Please don’t to this - it won’t end well.

[@renegranit240]

@@oceanafricasafari9908 oh fuckk off with that weird language. I 100% agree with the top comment but if you dont know you dont know and they had good intentions so fuck of with your patronising bs. Im pretty sure something is better than nothing even if you give out biscuits or so.

[@robertbeger4275]

Ben doing his David Attenborough voiceover. Love it. Love you guys. Today it struck me how much your lives have changed since Vancouver. You have a family!! Curious. When you started out, did you have any idea how time and kids would play out? Looking back at all you've done, all the videos, I can't help but think what a wonderful gift this is to your children and grandchildren and so on. Most of us will leave this life without leaving a trace. You dear people are leaving a big beautiful wonderful Trace.

[@SailingNahoa]

We started thinking we would finish the circumnavigation in 2-3 years then go back to desk jobs (software IT). At year 3 we were halfway and flat broke. That’s when we committed to KZbin full time….

[@memoryim]

That’s the equivalent of dumping a duffel bag of $100 dollar bills in time square. What did you expect to happen.

[@loripeaceandlove6391]

Wow! I’m Blessed to be a part of this sailing channel-I wanted to share with you a very powerful scripture in the Bible that I believe I personally witnessed come alive in this video. “When you are generous to the poor, you are enriched with blessings in return.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭9‬ ‭TPT‬‬ PeaceAndLove Lori

[@marcvedrinelle811]

Ben, my recommended way is to hand over all your gifts to the President of the village who will be responsible for the distribution. In Madagascar, there is respect inside the family. Outside the family, you could see...

[@barbaralane9825]

This is quite possibly the best video I’ve seen on any sailing channel over the years. My admiration and respect for all of you can’t be easily expressed. Just another reason I’m proud to be a Patreon. Sending you best wishes for the new year.

[@rad1ist]

I have to agree. It shows what real life is like outside our bubbles.

[@theresacourage3237]

I totally agree!

[@jillianswaine4298]

Yes! Your aim is not to do things that entertain but to share these extraordinary moments in your current lives. Willa sharing her ball had me in happy tears. You realize how young they learn love, sharing, & caring about others. ❤ Thank you.

[@tonysmario817]

these two are inspirational. this was a very impressive video...the courage to travel there with their babies...engage a very unfamiliar and potentially undesirable culture with openness and compassion...and to feel the need in their own hearts to give as much as they could. that's what it means to be human! these children at the most fortunate i can think of. Godspeed Nahoa!

[@3SpoiledDonkeys]

One one hand I absolutely love how you share what you have or trade what you have with the people you meet. Bu😍t as a parent myself, seeing the people fight over your gifts and start pushing and being loud seems really scary. As you said earlier in the video, you guys are alone there, no coast guard you can call if things were to really get out of hand. We all know that your hearts are in the right place and we know that you don't have an unlimited supply of gifts. But these people may think you have lots more on the boat and decide to come on board uninvited one night. I really hate to think that way, but maybe be just a bit more careful in the future. Love you guys! ❤️ The kids are getting so big!

[@bc-guy852]

You guys are incredible. "They don't seem concerned - it's their way of life"... and this - is your lives. I'm just thrilled and very lucky that you continue to share it with the rest of us - who aren't quite so fortunate! Happy New Year to my favourite Canadian Ambassadors! (and Willa - learning the 'giving way' - luv it!) Fair winds and following seas for the balance of your voyage.

[@MrLebro11]

If there was more giving, sharing & compassion there wouldn’t be so much desperation amongst those who have very little. Thank you for been such amazing humans & shaking us out of comfort zone. In this one vid you shone a spotlight on the poverty that exists. And you did it without judgement or malice. Brilliant filmmaking.

[@ZenStarwalker]

What you do is great! id love to see someone go to these places and build them tiny homes!

[@kristaready8812]

I like how you expressed that giving is a selfish act because it does make you feel good but when there is so much need in a concentrated area its difficult to give things equally. You guys do an amazing job. Just stay safe and try to avoid the fray. Looking forward to your next adventure. 🤗💞

[@kimvanderlaan4120]

It looked scary, but I know you always keep your safety in check. Your empathy and compassion is evident. I love your channel, your experiences are genuine.

[@annmariegiallonardo4852]

For sure, one important answer to your question is right in your video - WATER - hence the name of the organization WATER FIRST! Most important takeaway from this and deeply needed - Bravo for that and safe travels in 2023!

[@lpauline]

I follow these dear people and contribute via Patreon but this video sure did raise serious questions. The world is getting smaller and smaller and there is no way that industrialized cultures are not going to 'invade' simpler cultures. Someone else in these comments mentioned the movie, 'The God's Must Be Crazy', a movie that depicts what happens when 2 very dissimilar cultures meet. I liked another commenter's suggestion that you defer to the leader of the culture as to how to interact. But that would be difficult considering the language barrier. Irregardless, I wish nothing but success and increased wisdom, going forward, for the Nahoa family

[@MikeHarrison3266]

I know they do not have much but when they abuse your generosity by reaching in to attempt to grab what they can get, no that is time to shut the bag and say no more if they can not be respectful of your generosity they deserve nothing. If you feel you need to give then give to children primarily and then possibly to women. There is nothing wrong with generosity but I feel if you display that you have much to give they will be very content to take all they can get, sometimes even if it is not on offer.

[@donnamass9576]

I’m in Awe of your teachings. This puts a New Perspective on Christmas and how we can interact with the world around us. Then looking at the different perspectives of your encounters, both in the present and looking back at them…’Just clean drinking water’ is the most precious gift. Thank you for sharing all your perspectives along your journey. I Love Your Episodes and this one was my Christmas gift to me. 🫶🫶🫶🙏🙏🙏💋

[@r.c.714]

Im trying to teach them something important . They are not very open minded when it comes to swim stream upwards of years and years of indoctrination. They still think they can circumnavigate a so called world or habitat , where water always has a flat surface on top . Think about it for a couple of days . Lets say i build a swimming pool of 10x5 Miles big . The surface of the water will always be level , right ? That’s why constructors, architects (I’m one myself ) , landmeasurers etc use a water leveler , because water tells us how our surface looks like 😉 Its really that simple

[@hexhex7220]

What a perfect day to upload this video. Help us all think about how fortunate we are this New Year's Day 2023. Your videos are meaningful on so many levels. They are informative, educational, entertaining...Thank you for all the hard work that goes into creating them. Wishing your incredible family...health and happiness this New Year. Can't wait to be a part of your new adventures. Wind in your sails and safe passage.

[@SivaJivamukti]

In my life, the best answer to the question, “when is enough” regarding giving. You do what you can, where you are, with what you’ve got. Thank you for being such honourable ambassadors.

[@dwcheshire]

Happy New Year!!! I am struck by the contrast of these people, and millions more like them, and the people building rockets to go to the Moon and Mars, and how lucky we are not to worry about having clothes, or food, or water, or shelter... Thank you for helping me keep that gratitude.

[@stephensidaras7416]

You guys have it right. Your friends are scared of really living. Keep up the fantastic work. Keep up the sharing.

[@old-man173]

You have a lot of heart moving on is the best thing as someone could have decided to board your home happy new year stay safe

[@bill2292]

You guys are the best sailing channel ever!! You show emotion that viewers can't see anywhere else. In this episode you did a great job when an expression of love became an awkward situation

[@shades1959]

Safety of your family should always be your top priority. Limit the chances to place yourself in dangerous situations. Be smart.

[@barbiewarner530]

wow it was scraey at the end i was glad u left b4 u all had visits in the nite n who knows what would have happened 2 u all n the boat..they didnt seem that the kids were there in the mix..just so glad u pulled anchore.huggs n happy new yr.

[@amandamiller7926]

It's my opinion that you are giving much more to your children than taking away! You're teaching them SO MUCH! They will remember this forever! It's a beautiful thing!

[@micgant]

Wild adventure! I think you're doing exactly what you should be doing. You can only give so much and you're giving it to probably the most needy people on the planet. Thanks for showing us the world!

[@lucialowry1904]

Wishing you all the Happiest of New Years, filled with happiness, health, new adventures but above all being safe. With much love and hugs from Vancouver Island 💝💝💝💝

[@thebermudaangle9958]

I don't know about the safety in those areas, but most locals are lovely people....BUT, please please don't do this in South African. I'm a South African and things are rough there. Find local friends and follow their suggestions closely and stick to their sides- for you and your family's safety. Eg, don't wander around just anywhere, stay home at night, etc. Yes, I'm very nervous for you when I watch your adventures like this one. We have lost close friends and had family had terrifying things happen (held up at gunpoint, kidnapping in which my nephews friend was murdered...) This is the tip of the iceberg! I so enjoy your videos and very seldom comment (sorry) but I do feel very strongly about this and feel a great need to warn you. Take lots of care friends....🌟🐠🌟🐠🌟🐠🌟

[@midwestlakelife]

I feel the same as you. People aren't victims until they are.

[@stefandelange6079]

Just a heads up, you will experience similar issues in South Africa, my home. 🇿🇦 Please make sure that you come prepared and be safe. We have a beautiful country with beautiful people and you will enjoy it very much.

[@_SeeIt]

I love you are visiting Mada! I did some volunteer work there 15 years ago and learned soooo much about what gratitude can do for our happiness in life vs stuff and money.

[@SigisTravelVideos]

You guys are doing the right thing, show the kids the world from a different angle. A Happy New Year Nahoa crew!

[@johnreuteman2724]

Did I see the camera bag get taken? Hope you got it back. You folks are very brave. I think I would have bailed out a lot earlier, but you can really understand their motivation. Safe travels!

[@howardbalfour7594]

can't help thinking it was becoming a little fractious and I was more worried for your beautiful Children,having said that what a truly Beautiful video , you guys are way ahead the best boating channel ,Fair Winds and stay safe,probably because I'm an old fart I see danger more easily !

[@paulkopp3634]

You give what you can and takeaway the memory of the moment and the experience. Seems like a fair trade . Wonderful video thank you

[@jorgegorina3039]

Life is a gamble wether on land or the open water. I think the way you guys are raising your family is pure and better than those living on land. Keep doing you. God bless. Best for 2023! Keep the adventures going.

[@hydrostream76]

Ben , you guys are rational and positive risk takers That was a beautiful family village , It looked like some horsing around by the guys Then once the kids start crying seems like mayhem

[@anthonymiller8989]

Tony & Susan here, brave and crazy we think, but vary inspiring. Maybe next time you decide to be so generous get a sitter for the kids. Happy New Year.

[@alfreddaniels3817]

I’ve been a few times in such situations and I have seen quite a number of tourists too. My solution: make a bag of only what you want to give at that particular visit. When the group of people seem considerably compleet just throw the content of your bag wide spread onto the sand. They will jump on it and just let them sort out what to go for and if they want to exchange or share with others.

[@dustman96]

All I know is that things are different where there is need vs want. A huge failure of humanity that there are people living in desperate need, when there is more than enough for everyone to live really well. I for one commend you for taking your children on a voyage of learning and discovery in the real world. They will no doubt grow up to be very capable, knowledgeable, understanding, and compassionate people.

[@Meredith81972]

Happy New Year!! Another epic video. This one had me in tears for most of it. Tears because of how selfless y’all are and how giving and caring you are to the native people you meet. I don’t know what your beliefs are but what y’all show and share, in my opinion, is the love of God. Thank you for sharing your life and adventures with us. It truly makes me thankful for the things we have and also makes me want to get out there and travel off the beaten paths. I pray we’re able to live this dream one day. Continued prayers for your family and your travels for safety, health and blessings. 🥰🥰

[@tom080955]

Snows all gone! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND FAMILY!! From Playa del Carmen, normally White Rock BC…cheers!

[@pat45sailing]

I flew to Vanuatu, then onto Tanna Island. I had re-handled and sharpened 12 wood chisels, turned mallets, took books, pencils, rulers, and cheap bracelets for the kids. Some traded, most given away, awesome experience.

[@Madwheels45]

It looked like all their clothing came as gifts from passing cruisers. You did a great job. Very generous and making excellent calls in the moment.

[@chriskaiser171]

One of your best episodes. Keep up the great work. You are teaching the world to be more open and understanding of others and their culture.

[@KarlKarsnark]

...by putting their lives at risk in the middle of nowhere on the other side of the world. WCGW?

[@garrycollie2135]

@kfa4303 where in the world are you not in danger? There is danger everywhere. Just like we would not go into a large city at night or dark alleys, the sailing community also must gauge what is safe and what isn't. And, Ben and Ashley have obviously given much consideration to this.

[@rockinrican85]

I think your positive outlook on human kind in general makes you a very special family. With a world full of negativity, you guys show the good there is in all kinds of life.

[@mrasic3507]

NO..... They're obviously thrill seekers, they're gambling with their lives ..... okay no problem, GO FOR IT!!! *I don't agree that those 2 "babies", could possibly have benefited when they've had extreme weather and boat issues, and they're not able to *sooth their infants expessially under 3 yrs old* They say very bad things happen to the mentality and compassion OF THOSE WHO HAD TO SELF SOOTH AS INFANTS UNDER 3. Don't give me it was only 3 times outta 10.... that's bull 😤 *These are the next school shooters possibly worst* WHY PLAY THE ODDS ...WHY NOT GET CREW AT BARE FRIGGEN MINUNIM 😵😵‍💫🤯😡😡😈🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬👹👹👹👹👹

[@lynnadames9526]

I've been there, I've seen it and it changed my perception of my life in America for ever. Madagascar was the greatest experience of my life. Of course I didn't sail there by boat like you have so it gives me even greater pleasure to follow your voyage to that amazing island from your point of life.

[@GlevyBaybayon]

I feel so sorry for them.I love your passion for helping them in any way, and those instant photos you took are precious, maybe in their lifetime. Salute to your family! God bless and stay safe on your journey.

[@staz6530]

Happy New Year! I think you live the life of traveling and know what your gut would tell you to do. I think it's awesome what you guys do with trading and giving.

[@dennisrambanosr8246]

I had stop followings when you stop sailing. Now you have 2 kids already. And sailing all together. I wish you safe travel. Specially with kids in towed. Stay safe

[@mathewdavis-adventuresandd6643]

You two are very generous and giving. I would however suggest not showing up with large quantities of anything to give out. They start fighting among themselves and after guilty feelings set in, that anger could turn back to the source that brought it about. Even though you meant the very best for them, their way of seeing things may not align with yours.

[@MrJazz-yp9wg]

No judgement here Ben & Ashley. I trust your judgment. I find you both to be wise people and prudent in how you both conduct what you do. It was good to have other sailors company with you. But I know the feeling and the joy of giving. Please stay safe.

[@suziq5293]

You are so awesome, thank you for reaching out to those in need and sharing with u , you are the best!

[@eangie35]

You guys are amazing, but my heart beats when being approached by the very less fortunate, you just never know, I guess when you remain as calm as you do it works out! take care guys! May God continue to protect you.

[@John-pn7bh]

"Giving is selfish." Good statement.

[@calvingarrett3245]

Hello my friend just stay safe wherever you go I think what you're doing is a great thing just have to trust in God. I hope your new year will be better for you and your family God bless you all watching from USA California

[@mamapetecooley7324]

Your hearts are amazing. The education you're giving your children is, amazing. Thank you for sharing your adventures.

[@Markslaughter65]

You all are amazing. Thank you for demonstrating such generosity.

[@patriciabardou5674]

I have been folowing you for long and so happy that finaly you made it to my country .. thant you for been so kind and understanding ..

[@midnightmiddleton]

Very brave. You know what you know. And there’s nothing more dangerous than a mother protecting her own. Stay safe.❤️

[@e5op397]

you guys are risking it indeed but rather than arrogantly you guys are so so careful yet adventurous and honestly yall are fueling my dream of some day traveling like you all.

[@richb313]

The only down side of giving is when it is expected. Considering that what your two kids will learn is priceless. Happy New Years looking forward to further adventures.

[@disinfo2050]

Excellent, your all such fabulous role models... How do u keep the boat so clean.. Amazing.. 👍👍

[@lentongrovetrust5201]

All the very best for 2023, May your adventures be exciting and real

[@t-dog8528]

Nice little rush for you's. It really makes one wonder where decades of aid given to organisations and churches ends up.

[@deb6623]

I think you guys are doing what you both feel is right, also I felt like I was re-watching footage from your last 2 videos. So I checked and I was watching footage from your previous videos !!

[@lindseyintexas6895]

When you said you gave away your Lululemon shorts, my eleven year old daughter gasped... and I loved it. 😆 Those people have no clue about Lulus. Such an eye opener for my daughter. We only see what you show us. I know you have great care and protection over your children. I think things got a little out of hand when you were giving away stuff, but you had a good feel on the temperature of the situation and handled it with ease and grace. 👍

[@mary-i7d9d]

Poverty = Desperation. I've always said "desperate people do desperate things" They don't have much and what they do is part of their survival. I'm not being critical. What we would like as westerners means they would have to give up something that is part of their survival, like a speargun. We need to be aware of that. I have been watching your videos for a long time and I thoroughly enjoy them. Look forward to your South African trip, that's my homeland. Now living in Australia. Have a good safe trip. A heads up. Have your wits about you when you're there.....

[@PRINCESSDREAMYLYN]

I think you did awesome for what you had to give. planning ahead is a good thing to keep in mind. Never regret helping others. we all need help from time to time no mater our life style.

[@patrickconway5542]

My wife and I spent time in Jamaica ,where the friends we had met on our adventures had decided to bring a suitcase full of children’s clothing and school essentials with them on a excursion where we stopped in a small village and began giving away items!! BOOM 💥 the place erupted with hands grabbing this and that pushing the Women giving the stuff away, back and away , scared and crying! The driver stepped in and grabbed the case and took it back to the bus 😳😳😳, I had to calm them down by simply explaining that they have nothing and were literally just trying to get some thing for there children, but it was a free for all 😢😔🙏

[@anneofgreengables1619]

Not unlike the Nike store on black Friday ....

[@premierexterior8720]

Same happened to us in Kenya.. stopped to make lunch (sandwiches) Kids started to gather. We felt guilty eating in front of them so gave them the remainder of the bread, butter, jam etc expecting them to make sandwiches. That didn't happen. They started fighting over the ingredients. Shoveling butter and jam into their mouths before it could be taken off them.

[@hrhplease9119]

Hands down this video was another MASTERPIECE ‼️‼️‼️You guys ABSOLUTELY ROCK‼️‼️‼️WOW, THANK YOU 🥰🥰🥰

[@malgraham351]

Well I've watched that a few times now and yep it gets a bit rough but it never looked like danger or you might be in physical danger when they were onboard. Well done Ashley and Ben

[@tinanunya7343]

Thanks for sharing the videos despite the fact that some may not agree with the way y’all live your lives. Be safe and stay the way you are. You only go around this life once and most of us don’t get to circumnavigate while living it so who’s opinion is matters anyway. Happy New Year Nahoa and family

[@Quantik53]

I've been living exactely there for almost a year. You don't know how lucky you have been.

[@shaeheart]

I think this is a normal travel experience in some areas. Years ago I was travelling in Morocco and travelled up to the mountains. The local kids asked us for water bottles so we pulled out some empty ones we had discarded and handed them around. It ended up in a full blown scuffle for the bottles and we quickly departed!

[@abaji434]

you guys are incredible family!!! omg!! how can u travel around the world with 2little kiddy omg!!! big big big big big respect incredible big hearted and brave mommy!!

[@belloube]

It is so nice how you guys keep it real in so many levels. Tks for sharing it in such a positive way. Wish you guys many more years of adventure. God bless tou

[@shelleyhughes8589]

Good afternoon Ashley, Ben, Willa and Bodhi 😻 All of you are incredible with big hearts ❤ Absolutely beautiful and heartwarming. It doesn't matter what other's think it's what you think, feel and know. I don't feel like you give too much and I don't think you are too naive either. I don't feel that you could have done better either. Your the Best!!! Go with your heart like your doing... Don't second guess yourselves.. SUCH A LEARNING EXPERIENCE . IT'S GREAT TO GIVE ❤❤❤❤ In the end this is a wonderful gift with many experiences to all of you and in years to share with all your grandbabies. YOU ARE DEFINITELY A VERY SPECIAL FAMILY ❤❤❤ Thank you so much for sharing and gifting all of us your daily experiences on this beautiful journey. Wow, not most people could or would do what your beautiful family is doing ..... sharing with the world. Thank you .... Lots of Love xoxo xoxo

[@atir4u]

Thank you for showing us a one of a kind eye opening experience. Wilha will not forget this experience

[@ETucker1967]

Really enjoy your generosity, your love of others. I do worry for your safety at times, and the safety of those who follow your path, as handouts, rather than generous barters, can create a sense of entitlement, which can create unhealthy attitudes towards future visitors. However, do what brings you joy. Did Ashley get her camera bag back? Yes, I noticed it being whisked away, by a young man who felt entitled to her things.

[@tamigadd6915]

It is hard to ignore the needs of those who have so much less than we do..... It would be very sad to see something tragic take place while handing out items that are trivial even to those you are helping... I saw your baby girl clinging to her mommy's shorts.... very frightened as to what was taking place... you are no where near medical help if something were to happen to happen... trampled etc. Your Number 1 priority is the safety of your children..... My heart actually went out to Willa...... Fear is not a lesson I think you want to teach...

[@patrickjohn2990]

Great video. God bless you guys for sharing with the local folks. You thank you

[@chasingsunsets380]

Thank you for another great adventure shared. We are so lucky and do not get to see this in our every day lives. It brings true respect for what we have been given by our place of birth. Thanks.

[@prdsjfamily396]

What an amazing adventure. Thank you for sharing. Safe & happy 2023 travels :)

[@toesinthesea1829]

An interesting video, one of self reflection too. Why not make contact with the village elder or community leader to discuss the best approach if you want to donate? Making contact with local communities as you sail is inspiring & I admire this greatly. Your videos stand apart from other channels as you always try to show the reality of family boat life without the glossy edits. Excellent film making, your approach to show the world through your lens in how we can appreciate eachother through kindness and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures is to be applauded, just brilliant!

[@dviolinman]

Too Much? Too naive? Not for us to judge. "Judgement free" We are not there. We are in our comfort zones while you brave souls travel the world outside of the comfort zone. Thanks for taking us all along and sharing this great adventure. Your approach and honesty with all that you meet and interact with, we all hope will keep you all safe, but it is not about being safe, it's about adventure, and calculated risks, and with it comes great rewards for all involved. How many cruisers take advantage of those less fortunate and leave little behind. You will be remembered there and around the world as kind hearted souls. Thanks again for bringing us along. Fair winds.

[@thomasbrasse3145]

The presence of the kids is the only thing that gives me pause. Not knowing their language, not knowing their customs, not knowing much of anything is what makes this brave, but wonderful. You made a difference in their lives and what a memory.

[@rexstiger6090]

Giving is good...yes. Happy New Year!

[@jneyron]

Love you guys, I personaly think that you should not worry about what other people are thinking. You love what you do and that the only thing that should count for you. You just have to go with your hart. Happy New Year from a fellow Canadian that live in Thailand. Cheers

[@vineleak7676]

Handing out free stuff is always bringing out the worst out of people, entitlement, violence etc. This is the same kind of behavior you will see in welfare districts throughout the west...

[@terrireed8949]

Happy New Year. I think sometimes in your effort to do a good thing you do put your kids life in somewhat danger. Be careful and remember this is their life it’s what their used to.

[@billhadden7219]

Happy New Year! So much happening there and here. Weather is still cool here in Winnipeg but it's not the usual bone chilling kind. Looking good everyone.

[@lindac1578]

I've traveled a lot overseas, asia, africa, s. america and what I learned and was told that giving away stuff is not a great idea, the people start to expect it from the tourists and they get like beggars and often the kids cry because they don't get what they want and don't understand it. If possible, better to give to a school or ask the head of the town how you can help. They can get aggressive when they see how easy it is to get stuff from tourists.

[@hopedupree4294]

This is false information you should always give if your not going to be there long it’s especially good to establish kinship and respect sometimes it goes unplanned some not

[@tysonpotter3205]

@@hopedupree4294 Giving is not showing respect. In some cultures it’s considered disrespectful to just give things for nothing. Poor respectful and dignified people barter (give something for something)“Who are you to assume they need your help”, is what they think. The fact you visit a poor island is enough tourism dollars to help their economy. You teach dependence and when you leave, cause your trip is short, your words, what do they have to rely on but the next handout? Human tragedy.

[@lincolnlincoln27]

as long as you are safe!!!!.... perhaps hard to really determine, with culture differences & language barrier.....Happy 2023!. Love & Respect.

[@wellDunn1]

Good on ya Ben and Ashley. Your positive outlook on the “good” people of this world is refreshing and I believe your calculated risk is admirable. I also think that you’re raising kids in the same manner while providing them with an immeasurable positive life experience. That said… I think you’re both crazy for sailing the world with two toddlers, but I admire you nonetheless. ❤️👍🏼

[@dianeallen3724]

Wow! That would have scared me. You have a long way to go and your supplies are GONE! How far until you can resupply?

[@SailingNahoa]

A couple weeks. We have some canned goods in the bilges and lots of fish in the ocean :)

[@latitudeash]

I wish I had the balls to sell it all and do what you are doing. Much respect.

[@Jmcivor777]

I wonder if there was a tribal structure (elders or leaders) to first approach and try and figure out how the goods might be distributed through their systems. Perhaps more time with the group or knowledge was needed to figure out how to engage more safely. Statistically every group will have a few criminal personalities that will see your boat and all its supplies as a way to their own enrichment. Its naive to think otherwise- anywhere on the planet.

[@stephaniejane8335]

You raise a significant point in that understanding the cultural & structural foundations of a population should be taken into consideration here. While it's all very nice to make a well intended contribution, it is more important to give in a way that is needed and appropriate for the recipients rather than looking through the cultural lens of the giver. Maybe do a little research next time, learn the lay of the land and be safe.

[@patassion]

We look forward to each Sunday to watch your videos. Here in west coast canada!