Sailing-New Zealand To Fiji, June 2005

Sailing off New Zealand I am engulfed in a storm where the winds would maintain speeds upwards of 70 knots and the sea averaged about 35 feet. Waves would roll across the deck and sweep away anything that was not securely fastened. I took on water. My wind vane was destroyed. All my sails were shredded and I was laying a hull, a dangerous position when the boat is beam to sea. Moments later I suffered my first proper knock down when a wave picked up the boat and threw it hard on its side. My body, books, clothes, pots, pans, pens and all sorts of items flew from one side to the other. I was bruised and a bit shaken, but I made my way out on deck. Clipping into my safety line, I looked around. Waves were taller than the mast. White spray and foam was everywhere. Wind shrieked and screamed through the rigging. It was almost unbelievable. It was haunting and amazing all at the same time. Focusing on my task, I jury-rigged a small sail on the mizzen to stabilize the boat, hove-to. After a few days the wind eased. I survived the storm, sailing onto landfall in Fiji and keeping the dream alive.

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• Todd Forney
• Sailing New Zealand To Fiji
• Skip
• freedom.com

[johnnymestizo82]

Finally ive found a near complete sailing story on video not a clip. Good effort not sure what that psychedelic party was at the start ;) lol wicked sailing and great craftmanship -happy sailing

[skipfreedom]

Johnny- I am just in the begining of figuring out this site.... I have many vid logs and i would like to show case my journey around the world without an engine. Thanks for you imput. When i get my site a little more organized i'll send you an updated link. all the best...

[Jamiemasteroflight]

legend...what for it, wait for it...DARY......legendary mate..rough with the smooth - awesome clips thanks skip

[kodakZX1]

You are made of steel my friend. Waves higher than your mast must have put your mind at deaths door. What was going through your head when you saw that? Too bad you couldn't capture some of that site and the awe that you must have felt.

[veleiroasterix]

believe it or not belive... that´s the question

[kainui07]

Salmon Berry is da Bomb!! Keep it up Low Tide. We love you! Da Bubbles