You guys are courageous with honesty. Your open-book attitude makes the whole exercise unbelievably authentic. Unlike some of the other comments I have no advice on anything. You guys share so much of yourselves along with social interactions between one another, with friends and family as well as personal financial stuff which is unique. You both have my utter respect.
Thanks David. Our goal is to be an open book……being honest there were very minor edits just in an attempt to make me at least appear human! Back in Italy now on Northern Sicilian Coast. Lost steering coming in and could only go in circles to Port….got it sorted kind of and spent yesterday sourcing a Jerry rig part……head off today so fingers crossed….another case of defect parts supplied by supplier. Take care.
A solid marriage is built on accommodating each other’s needs. My wife is similar. Not sure she loves boating as much as me but for the most part smiles and puts up with me/it. I respect your decision. Both of you. Cheers from Southern California.
Fiona, you are so brave and the best thing is to be honest with each other. I can totally understand as I have been in a similar situation being away from my wife and doing something that I love. I found that the time we have spent away from each other has made us closer and really appreciate each other even more. Really enjoyed the show especially with the costings of running the boat. It has been a really big help. Congratulations to you both. Mark can’t wait to see you use the Lures, if you ever need a fishing buddy let me know. Safe travels and tight lines.🎣
Yip really proud of how Fiona has adapted to the boat over the last 5 months. Honestly, I am disappointed to see her head way so soon but I know she will be back. That was the deal from the beginning so yes big change but not totally unexpected. The fish in the Med should be worried!
Hundred percent Fiona will be back, you’re lucky Mark. You have a wonderful wife that understands your passion for adventure. On the fishing side, because you are only moving around 6 kts you will be able to troll a couple of lures out the back of the boat. Try not to set your drag on your reel to tight you should be able to pull the line off by hand but not too loose. You’re probably need someone out the back of the boat to keep an eye on the rods just in case you hook up and you’ll need to stop the boat and pull your monster fish in. I would probably start on the smaller lures first up. Happy fishing, mate
Fiona and Mark, it is such a joy to watch your channel. Honestly, it is very refreshing. My husband is very ambitious and an avid traveler, too. He dreams of setting off on big, intrepid adventures as soon as possible. So Fiona, I can totally relate to your honest thoughts. Best wishes to you both for the journey ahead. Keep up the cool videos.
Thank you so much for your support and positive feedback. It’s going to be tough saying goodbye but modern technology certainly keeps you in touch much better these days. Nothing like a cuddle though!
What a wonderful and useful episode. I watch many boating channels and you have shared information that I have not seen on the others. Many dreamers may be intimidated by the cost of boat life but your no nonsense presentation will cause many to think “yes, I can handle that, I am in a better financial position than realized”. Interestingly, I have seen many estimated boat operating costs at 10% of the purchase price of the boat, and your numbers hit that estimate almost exactly. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experiences. Fiona has been a great partner and crew member, once off the boat she may miss it more than imagined. She is also a delight on your channel.
Thanks so much. We are trying to provide exactly what we were looking for when we considered starting this adventure. We could not find it either. We really hope it helps others be inspired to follow their dreams no matter how small or large they may be.
Good cost breakdown. That’s one nice thing for sure, about going home. Sourcing parts at a reasonable price. It wasn’t boating, but truck driving for me. I had an alternator start to go bad while I was in California. I had to get back to Ontario Canada. I checked a few truck stop centres, as I was under a load. Long story short, the alternator held out(at a lower voltage) till I got home. For what I would have spent on a replacement alternator while on the road, I was able to get a remanufactured alternator, two new batteries, and paid to have the original alternator rebuilt…and a good meal.
Another top episode team, obviously a very emotional one to put together. Was a true pleasure meeting you both at your wonderful property, last week. Fiona Her in doors said she wouldn’t want to spend that length of time with me on a boat. I am not sure why as I am an absolute delight,😉. Good luck with the next adventure
I know exactly what you mean we are such easy guys to get along with. Difficult to understand eh? It was so nice meeting you guys as well and thanks so much for coming to see us. It was a long trip back but we are now in Sicily with absolutely wonderful weather. So hope we all catch up again. It was a tough episode to put together.
Fiona can rest assured not every couple is comfortable with each others dream, My first round the world drive was abruptly cut short as the misses wasn’t enjoying it like I was, so on subsequent journeys I left her at home, and it’s all worked out for the best and I love me time, been married now38 yrs, enjoy Mark I’m following and wishing I was had the opportunity
Very honest video and must say your cost are lower than ours. Our maintenance cost are much, much higher, so you are absolutely fine with what you have. All the other cost are basically what we have as well, so indeed spot on calculation. Saw the intro of Fiona and although we understand reasoning of the both of you, life is short. You don't have another 20 or 30 years to create memories and spend time together. I may have perhaps 10 years left before dementia will hit me (runs in the family), so spending time together is important to us. And you are also not getting any younger, so we are wondering why not change your plans ? Now that Fiona is not joining you, all it comes down to now is bringing the boat back to NZ and that is it, then what ? Sure you can try to get through the rough winter months in Europe, but so far we have had one storm after another and fighting our way through those would start to look like work. Would not be our idea of fun. We had planned to be in Greece for the winter, but the admiral did not want to go through the rough weather, so I had to give in and it became a change of plans. Found ourselves a covered spot for the winter in Italy, taking the boat out on the 29th this month and will be changing the deck there. Beginning of April we will get back on the boat again, first to Greece, then back to Croatia and Venice. Sad part is that October will most likely be very warm in Greece, forecasting 30 - 35 degrees in the Ionian, basically summer, I would love to be there with the boat. But sometimes you just have to realize that the little time we have left (at our age) to spend together is more important than doing something that is nothing more than proving you can do something. After all, what is the value in just having to go out every day to bring the boat up in bad weather so that in the end you can say it arrived in NZ and you will sit at home again ? Last week we had to drop off family in Italy, had to battle through storms for 2 days to get there, when normally we would just stay put, wait for good weather and only then go out. One of the benefits of being in pension is that you don't have any time pressure, you can do it at your own pace. We have, since our drop off in Italy, returned to Limsky Fjord, Istria, been her for almost a week, lots of bad weather, but tomorrow seems to be good weather for about a week, so we will move to our favorite anchorage and enjoy being on the water. No more schedules to meet. You said it right and many people have told you, they were not wrong. This part of the world, Eastern Med, is the absolute most beautiful place for boating in the world. I know the Caribbean, used to live there for a couple of decades, great for flying, but not for motor yachting in our size of boats. So this may sound strange and not very welcome, but why not keep the boat here in the Med for a few more years, enjoy the summers in the Med. Spend 3 months in Schengen, then 3 months out, go home in between and come back for another 3 months. And when you are finally done, Fiona will have much more confidence, you will have created beautiful memories and then load the boat on a cargo ship, have it transported to the next place the two of you feel comfortable doing together and get back on the water ? Going in winter time to the UK is something not a lot of people would try to do, it is just flat out dangerous. Even going along the coast in the bay of Biscay is dangerous and that is purely due to the curvature of the bottom of the ocean. It goes from extremely deep to very shallow, very fast, creating the wildest seas you will ever encounter. You can of course sit and wait in each port for a few weeks, but let's be real............what is the fun of that ? In any case, whatever you decide, we will be following the journey, but be safe out there. The Med and Biscay are unforgiving, don't go out when it is not necessary, it is not worth it to risk your life just because you put a time constraint on yourself.
Hey Dave thanks so much for your honesty and very direct but real comments that show us you care. Indeed time is running out for all us oldies. This is year one and we have so much to learn about what we want from the boat and how we will achieve it. The goal is to enjoy Awanui NZ back in New Zealand in the Marlborough Sounds which is in our view one of the most beautiful sailing areas in the World. We have spent many happy days and weeks there. Because the boat was being built in Turkey and there was an option to pick her up there I simply could not resist the adventure and Fiona supported me which is amazing. How (if) we get home with Awanui NZ is a story yet to be told. One thing for sure is we are both open to change so watch this space. Again really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts - I will read them again and consider carefully your very good suggestions. Be assured we (I) will be careful. Good news in the short term is across northern Sicily the next week shows calm - 0 seas on numerous days - we will make the most of that.
My wife and I cruised the Caribbean this past winter (Jan-June). We realized that we both loved the experience and are planning for future adventures. However, we also realized that we only wanted to cruise 3-5 months per year and would return home to be close to family and friends. Even while cruising, we recognized that we also wanted time away from our boat for short stints. We found that the daily stressor would slowly accumulate over 3-4 weeks and we needed to decompress by staying at a marina vs being always at anchor
Fiona it is a brave thing to decide to get the best of both worlds. Mark will have his continued adventures and you will keep the home fires burning and go back for a boat adventure whenever you want! It would be wrong to stay on the boat just because you think you should. Life is too short for everyone to not get what they want out of life.
Oh how true is that. I will miss Fiona a great deal but am happy that she is doing what she wants to do and very grateful that Inhave her support to continue
Hi from NZ! You two are great and we really appreciate your honesty in the videos, and Fionas bravery to make the decision to be based from home. If you are anxious on the boat it takes away a lot of the enjoyment. Boating isnt easy - but it is lovely at times. Dont feel like you are failing if you bring Awanui NZ home on a ship - we are long way from anywhere and the weather is so changeable getting down here. Great cruising around NZ coastal waters (just a bit colder!), and the Pacific Islands are lovely and easy to get fellow delivery crew and Fiona can fly up easy. Whatever you do - keep in contact daily as a couple if you can and you'll make it work 😊
Absolutely Sally and that is always an option. So early in the piece at the moment and still finding our feet. This is the next part of the adventure together even though not in the same place. Time is certainly going to tell and we will talk everyday……internet is a wonderful thing.
Fiona you are wonderful. It takes a strong woman to support her husband, no questions asked. As a married woman (50 years) I also try to "go along" and support my spouse whatever his adventures are: flying his own plane(s), scuba diving, sailboat ownership, powerboat ownership, etc.
10% of the boat cost, is what normally is your annual spendings. you need to factor in depreciation too eg engine replacement in 10000hours, which might be in 10years, electronics update/repair/replace maybe every 5 years. watermaker every 5-10 years , antifouling boat every year, hull repairs, interior upholstery replacement , so you need to put that money aside( maybe 1-2% every year)
The fuel economy on those little Nordhavns is just great. I noticed in the specs for the N41, the fuel burn comes out at 0.52 litres per nautical mile at 5 knots, then practically doubles to 0.98 l/nm at 6 knots and is 1.28 l/nm at 7 knots. Just think, if you had a planing boat of the same size, you'd be looking at 160-220 litres per hour, easy. 3000 miles at that rate would make you cry!
Glad to see you back Mark sorry that Fiona won't be with you but I totally understand why looking forward to the next adventure. And thank you to you both for the great video.
Fully understand yr decisioning to spend some time off the boat at home with kids etc. No right or wrong in the world. As a doubter when I first watched yr channel, your growth has been phenomenal and cant wait for yr future vids no matter who is on board. Hope there will be regular uodates from Blossom Valley . As a fellow Kiwi Ive loved seeing the ‘can do’ attitude and the beautiful places you have been. Mark - if she is not there to tell you off you will have to be mindful- more smiling and let crossed arms on videos. She wont be there to blame for things😅 lets hope the nzd/usd exchange rate improves.
Haha great comments. It is so interesting how you find yourself perceived . I have learnt a lot about myself over the last 6 months. Blossom Valley went really well and a large credit is due to our two boys who manage the property. It was pretty obvious to us they have their hearts in the place. So pleased you hung in there.
Hi Mark, many thanks for the brutal reality of living overseas with the NZ dollar, doesn’t matter how much it cost as long as you have it and you are happy, cheers for the content.
The good thing is you're both intelligent adults that can make decisions that are good for both of you. You're both accomplished sailors now which is brilliant. PS. You've got your logistics pipeline established. Only time, bleeding hands and an inquiring mind can establish that. Fiona, you get the best of both worlds. You remind me of my mum. Friendly, competent and a mind of your own.
Great Video Mark and Fiona. Mark I will be looking forward to the next video to learn what the custom officials think of the things you are bringing into their country. Fiona enjoy this next month I am going to miss you when you are back home. Also sorry about the NZ naval ship that you lost in the last 10 days or so. So glad no one was injured.
Yes indeed Linda. Lots of our watchers will miss Fiona I think they love how she deals with me! Currently nestled in Trapani, Sicily together and with friends. Starting to head across northern Sicily today……go NZ in Americas Cup
Great to see you guys back, been missing you. Mark give Fiona a big hug from us all. Looking forward to your next adventures, if you’re needing a hand whilst sailing through Scotland, give me a shout, both my wife and I would love to help you through the canal. Cheers 🥃🏴
You will love it, West coast is like the Caribbean, Lewis, Usit, Arran, Islay, Jura beautiful for berthing. Mainland Loch Fyne, Inveraray, cally canal. So much to choose 🏴🥃
Great video and good to see you both back. Fantastic honest and interesting resume there. Just off to the Ionian sailing myself. Looking forward to the next instalment. Hope Customs in Tunisia don't take too much interest in the boat spares !!
Great vlog and brave to open up Mark and Fiona. I reckon all those years of high flight level cruising for hours on end in the 74, 76 and 777 has prepared Mark well for those long distance low level water ‘cruises’. Of course that does make Fiona - FIFO Fiona the F/O - an elegant and excellent solution to meeting each others life goals. Keep the faith and vlog going. Cheers and beers A❤️👍🇳🇿
Thanks Andy and great to hear from you. Thanks for your support. Having cheers with beers with Paul and Glenis currently settled in Trapani after a long night from Tunisia
Mark and Fiona- you two are Great. Very transparent which is refreshing. Question does the 2,2124,00 include any tax? and are a lot of the replacement parts for the John Deere expensive? Also does Norhavn offer different engines? and if you need someone for a week or two . Need to get out of the Keys for a bit-- away from these Hurricanes
Hey great question, no it does not include tax…..we will need to pay that when entering NZ. Probably circa $150-$200k - worrying about that in 4 or 5 years. Yip expensive if JD but lots out there on the market OEM like impellers for sea water pump. No options on engines. I am going to see how I go on my own and see how long till Fiona comes back. Will keep all the offers for company/help in mind though. Cheers
I’ve watched all your episodes since launch (from my home in Chicago) . A few comments re your fly bridge . I commented early on that I thought you should spend the money to install Stidd seating on the fly bridge especially since your lower helm is Stidd. How have you felt about the bridge seating? FYI, I am on our second Sabre yacht . Our first was a 36 flybridge bought new in 2002 and after our complaints to the company about the Pompanette seating, Sabre switched to Stidds only. You are definitely doing the right thing about adding stability to your Bimini. I looked at old photos of our first Sabre and note the reliance on triangular stainless steel framing. So at the front of the bridge, there are vertical s/s posts at the corners with s/s braces coming down from the top of the vertical posts at an angle abeam and fastened maybe 1.5 feet in from the bottom of the vertical post. Similarly, there are s/s braces coming down from near the top of those corner posts at angles along the side of the bridge forming additional triangles. The hardware and means of attachment look similar to your planned installation. You will never remove the front bracing because it does not obstruct your vision
Yip that’s exactly where I got to on the bracing. The helm chair is great up there. If and when it needs replacing we will absolutely check out all options
Was this video waited for?? ouh yes.... A what a nice one! no drone footage, but a lot of insight! And it confirms my last comment on the previous video... your relationsship can cope with Fiona being a part time deckhand, and it is warming to learn that it was part of the original "Deal" you made with each other..... Very interesting cost breakdown - and so nice to see you can source parts cheaper by doing some research... I have sent you an email - let s see in due time if it is of interest . not important right now. But it was so nice to see you back on YT. Stay safe both of you and looking so much forward to your next video. All the best.....
Thanks for this very interesting video. To buy a boat is one thing, but to know the real cost of use is the most important thing to avoid financial problem after.....When you speak about the total cost of your N51 about 2,2 M NZ dollars , it's with or without VAT ? thanks !!
My wife and I have very different interests. It works for both of us. She, nor I, have to cling to the other but we always support each other. It works out very nicely. I really enjoyed this "reveal" episode. I am not surprised at any of the costs, especially while you are abroad. I was not surprised at the cost of Awanui NZ but I was surprised at the cost of the tender. I thought the tender would be much less. Great, great episode!
The perfect marriage enjoys closeness but also gives space. The tender came complete with centre console and outboard…..I was quite pleased with the price.
Thank you for the update Mark and Fiona! Spot on as always. How far do you think you can travel with a full tank? Enough to cross over to French Polynesia etc?
That's what you guys have worked for all your life, hard to put a price on that. you only live once. And yes I have a 12m Bavaria sport two Volvos 310s so I understand. Great trip great memory's. Love your channel.
I fully understand where you are coming from. Nothing like yours but we have a boat in theSounds. It is hubbys dream and not mine. I always wanted a caravan. Never got anywhere so thought, whats the next best thing but a caravan on water! I get anxious about boating. i just cant help it. I would not want to be away from grandchildren for long periods. Dont feel guilty. You gave it a go and it just isnt your cup of tea full time. You will still have many years of fun with the boat.
Great update! And fantastic present from the Australian guy, was thinking the same thing on your fishing capabilities ;-( Check out you don't have to pay import duties in Tunisia on all that stuff!
The biggest cost is depreciation. Especially if you are writing off income against the expenses as a business. That number goes up every year too, where the better half half said keeping the boat up to date to date, an accountant might call depreciation expenses.😀 Thanks for the other costs. Forget Financing....different for everyone.😀
Absolutely Gary and we expected teething issues with Hull 1. I have and continue to learn so much through the problems we have encountered. Just take them in my stride now.
Thank you so much for this video. You are so honest, it is truly amazing. It is very interesting and quite frightening how much it coast's to run a boat like yours, thanks for sharing that to. Looking really forward to your next video.
Thanks for the feedback. Our goal was always to tell our story no holds barred. We want to provide what we had been looking for when we started thinking about this adventure
I sailed/cruised my 50ft Motorsailor all season in the Greek Islands for 740 euro diesel plus marina 950 Euro plus food/entertainment. May be $10K tops total.
Not surprised. Engines burn fuel and require maintenance. Insurance is not cheap for boat like this. Our entertainment costs were certainly higher than expected. Having said that your costs were amazing
Hello interested in your insurance prices seem high compared to what I pay , for 1 year in Europe great square basically everywhere you are planning on being for time is 3k Euros. My insurance company has the option to extend voyage as needed. Something that may reduce your costs. Great channel thankyou for sharing.
I personally don’t get the grandkid thing, it’s an incredible adventure in your life and it’s your life to live, grandkids will be there when you get back.
Shipping your yacht closer to NZ would be wiser.Or continue with competent crew. Cheers from retired 75 mariner.and former yachty.Ocean not to be played with but respected .You keep your life in return. Believe me
Well I think it is everywhere. The best option is to use the internet but then you need an address to send things to. So far we have found it quite hard to secure a friendly address. Anodes though are different the outfit in Auckland is amazing.
@@AwanuiNZ yes, when I was fishing I used to buy a zinc bar and make my own. My bro in-law had a lathe to make the ends. I had a steel boat and had about eight zincs throughout the piping and had to change them about once a month. Would have cost me a fortune in Europe 😁
The joys of a diesel sucking monster. I'd go yacht every time. Same speed, usually faster, safer, quieter and most certainly cheaper. WoW. too much money. What a liability.
Ok so same speed, usually faster I do not agree with…we watch sailboats tacking backwards and forwards covering twice the distance all the time…they usually give up and motor, likely enjoying going in a straight line when the wind disappears. Most yachts I see are noisy, this boat is exceptionally quiet. Cheaper yes cannot argue with that. Each to their own.
Guy has a bit of a curmudgeon way towards the wife. She puts up with it. I wouldn't. Maybe that's why she wants him gone with his boat toy, I guess. 😂😅
I'm looking at the Nordhavn 41 to live on 7 months a year. East coast of the USA from Chesapeake Bay to The Bahamas would be my travel Itinerary. What's your thoughts?
Привет Капитан!, сейчас Фиона послушная видимо ты использовал мой совет и привязал её теми милыми цепями. Мои советы очень хороши, послушай как можно скорей перегоняй лодку домой, возможны военные осложнения, возьми с собой друга в дорогу, а Фиону сохрани дома, она пригодится тебе для игр с цепями.
It will get way cheaper next year with the new system and way less taxes worldwide. Insurance is a total scam. Wondering Hillbilly got scammed. His Insurance didn't pay out. Hope you're not with that one.
You guys are courageous with honesty. Your open-book attitude makes the whole exercise unbelievably authentic. Unlike some of the other comments I have no advice on anything. You guys share so much of yourselves along with social interactions between one another, with friends and family as well as personal financial stuff which is unique. You both have my utter respect.
Thanks David. Our goal is to be an open book……being honest there were very minor edits just in an attempt to make me at least appear human! Back in Italy now on Northern Sicilian Coast. Lost steering coming in and could only go in circles to Port….got it sorted kind of and spent yesterday sourcing a Jerry rig part……head off today so fingers crossed….another case of defect parts supplied by supplier. Take care.
@@AwanuiNZ I guess there are so many things that can wrong Mark. That’s life. Safe journeys. Can’t wait for next video.
@@davidlangford3841under production as we speak
It is so fabulous how each of you support each others dreams and preferences!
A solid marriage is built on accommodating each other’s needs. My wife is similar. Not sure she loves boating as much as me but for the most part smiles and puts up with me/it. I respect your decision. Both of you. Cheers from Southern California.
That pretty much sums it up
Fabulous episode! You know, the heart only aches deeply because there’s abundant profound love shared. 💝💝🐨
So true, so true
Fiona, you are so brave and the best thing is to be honest with each other. I can totally understand as I have been in a similar situation being away from my wife and doing something that I love. I found that the time we have spent away from each other has made us closer and really appreciate each other even more. Really enjoyed the show especially with the costings of running the boat. It has been a really big help. Congratulations to you both. Mark can’t wait to see you use the Lures, if you ever need a fishing buddy let me know. Safe travels and tight lines.🎣
Yip really proud of how Fiona has adapted to the boat over the last 5 months. Honestly, I am disappointed to see her head way so soon but I know she will be back. That was the deal from the beginning so yes big change but not totally unexpected. The fish in the Med should be worried!
Hundred percent Fiona will be back, you’re lucky Mark. You have a wonderful wife that understands your passion for adventure. On the fishing side, because you are only moving around 6 kts you will be able to troll a couple of lures out the back of the boat. Try not to set your drag on your reel to tight you should be able to pull the line off by hand but not too loose. You’re probably need someone out the back of the boat to keep an eye on the rods just in case you hook up and you’ll need to stop the boat and pull your monster fish in. I would probably start on the smaller lures first up.
Happy fishing, mate
@@davehookedtv Done with success!
Fiona and Mark, it is such a joy to watch your channel. Honestly, it is very refreshing. My husband is very ambitious and an avid traveler, too. He dreams of setting off on big, intrepid adventures as soon as possible. So Fiona, I can totally relate to your honest thoughts. Best wishes to you both for the journey ahead. Keep up the cool videos.
Thank you so much for your support and positive feedback. It’s going to be tough saying goodbye but modern technology certainly keeps you in touch much better these days. Nothing like a cuddle though!
What a wonderful and useful episode. I watch many boating channels and you have shared information that I have not seen on the others. Many dreamers may be intimidated by the cost of boat life but your no nonsense presentation will cause many to think “yes, I can handle that, I am in a better financial position than realized”. Interestingly, I have seen many estimated boat operating costs at 10% of the purchase price of the boat, and your numbers hit that estimate almost exactly. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experiences. Fiona has been a great partner and crew member, once off the boat she may miss it more than imagined. She is also a delight on your channel.
Thanks so much. We are trying to provide exactly what we were looking for when we considered starting this adventure. We could not find it either. We really hope it helps others be inspired to follow their dreams no matter how small or large they may be.
Good cost breakdown.
That’s one nice thing for sure, about going home. Sourcing parts at a reasonable price.
It wasn’t boating, but truck driving for me. I had an alternator start to go bad while I was in California. I had to get back to Ontario Canada. I checked a few truck stop centres, as I was under a load. Long story short, the alternator held out(at a lower voltage) till I got home. For what I would have spent on a replacement alternator while on the road, I was able to get a remanufactured alternator, two new batteries, and paid to have the original alternator rebuilt…and a good meal.
Yip shopping in your home area is so much simpler. There is never time to find just what you want when constantly on the move
Another top episode team, obviously a very emotional one to put together. Was a true pleasure meeting you both at your wonderful property, last week. Fiona Her in doors said she wouldn’t want to spend that length of time with me on a boat. I am not sure why as I am an absolute delight,😉. Good luck with the next adventure
I know exactly what you mean we are such easy guys to get along with. Difficult to understand eh? It was so nice meeting you guys as well and thanks so much for coming to see us. It was a long trip back but we are now in Sicily with absolutely wonderful weather. So hope we all catch up again. It was a tough episode to put together.
Fiona can rest assured not every couple is comfortable with each others dream, My first round the world drive was abruptly cut short as the misses wasn’t enjoying it like I was, so on subsequent journeys I left her at home, and it’s all worked out for the best and I love me time, been married now38 yrs, enjoy Mark I’m following and wishing I was had the opportunity
Wow driving around the world that’s exciting……don’t give me ideas.
Very honest video and must say your cost are lower than ours. Our maintenance cost are much, much higher, so you are absolutely fine with what you have. All the other cost are basically what we have as well, so indeed spot on calculation.
Saw the intro of Fiona and although we understand reasoning of the both of you, life is short. You don't have another 20 or 30 years to create memories and spend time together. I may have perhaps 10 years left before dementia will hit me (runs in the family), so spending time together is important to us. And you are also not getting any younger, so we are wondering why not change your plans ? Now that Fiona is not joining you, all it comes down to now is bringing the boat back to NZ and that is it, then what ?
Sure you can try to get through the rough winter months in Europe, but so far we have had one storm after another and fighting our way through those would start to look like work. Would not be our idea of fun.
We had planned to be in Greece for the winter, but the admiral did not want to go through the rough weather, so I had to give in and it became a change of plans. Found ourselves a covered spot for the winter in Italy, taking the boat out on the 29th this month and will be changing the deck there. Beginning of April we will get back on the boat again, first to Greece, then back to Croatia and Venice. Sad part is that October will most likely be very warm in Greece, forecasting 30 - 35 degrees in the Ionian, basically summer, I would love to be there with the boat. But sometimes you just have to realize that the little time we have left (at our age) to spend together is more important than doing something that is nothing more than proving you can do something. After all, what is the value in just having to go out every day to bring the boat up in bad weather so that in the end you can say it arrived in NZ and you will sit at home again ?
Last week we had to drop off family in Italy, had to battle through storms for 2 days to get there, when normally we would just stay put, wait for good weather and only then go out. One of the benefits of being in pension is that you don't have any time pressure, you can do it at your own pace. We have, since our drop off in Italy, returned to Limsky Fjord, Istria, been her for almost a week, lots of bad weather, but tomorrow seems to be good weather for about a week, so we will move to our favorite anchorage and enjoy being on the water. No more schedules to meet.
You said it right and many people have told you, they were not wrong. This part of the world, Eastern Med, is the absolute most beautiful place for boating in the world. I know the Caribbean, used to live there for a couple of decades, great for flying, but not for motor yachting in our size of boats.
So this may sound strange and not very welcome, but why not keep the boat here in the Med for a few more years, enjoy the summers in the Med. Spend 3 months in Schengen, then 3 months out, go home in between and come back for another 3 months. And when you are finally done, Fiona will have much more confidence, you will have created beautiful memories and then load the boat on a cargo ship, have it transported to the next place the two of you feel comfortable doing together and get back on the water ? Going in winter time to the UK is something not a lot of people would try to do, it is just flat out dangerous. Even going along the coast in the bay of Biscay is dangerous and that is purely due to the curvature of the bottom of the ocean. It goes from extremely deep to very shallow, very fast, creating the wildest seas you will ever encounter. You can of course sit and wait in each port for a few weeks, but let's be real............what is the fun of that ?
In any case, whatever you decide, we will be following the journey, but be safe out there. The Med and Biscay are unforgiving, don't go out when it is not necessary, it is not worth it to risk your life just because you put a time constraint on yourself.
Hey Dave thanks so much for your honesty and very direct but real comments that show us you care. Indeed time is running out for all us oldies. This is year one and we have so much to learn about what we want from the boat and how we will achieve it. The goal is to enjoy Awanui NZ back in New Zealand in the Marlborough Sounds which is in our view one of the most beautiful sailing areas in the World. We have spent many happy days and weeks there. Because the boat was being built in Turkey and there was an option to pick her up there I simply could not resist the adventure and Fiona supported me which is amazing. How (if) we get home with Awanui NZ is a story yet to be told. One thing for sure is we are both open to change so watch this space. Again really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts - I will read them again and consider carefully your very good suggestions. Be assured we (I) will be careful. Good news in the short term is across northern Sicily the next week shows calm - 0 seas on numerous days - we will make the most of that.
My wife and I cruised the Caribbean this past winter (Jan-June). We realized that we both loved the experience and are planning for future adventures. However, we also realized that we only wanted to cruise 3-5 months per year and would return home to be close to family and friends. Even while cruising, we recognized that we also wanted time away from our boat for short stints. We found that the daily stressor would slowly accumulate over 3-4 weeks and we needed to decompress by staying at a marina vs being always at anchor
I hear you
Fiona it is a brave thing to decide to get the best of both worlds. Mark will have his continued adventures and you will keep the home fires burning and go back for a boat adventure whenever you want! It would be wrong to stay on the boat just because you think you should. Life is too short for everyone to not get what they want out of life.
Oh how true is that. I will miss Fiona a great deal but am happy that she is doing what she wants to do and very grateful that Inhave her support to continue
this is the best youtube video ive ever seen
Hi from NZ! You two are great and we really appreciate your honesty in the videos, and Fionas bravery to make the decision to be based from home. If you are anxious on the boat it takes away a lot of the enjoyment. Boating isnt easy - but it is lovely at times. Dont feel like you are failing if you bring Awanui NZ home on a ship - we are long way from anywhere and the weather is so changeable getting down here. Great cruising around NZ coastal waters (just a bit colder!), and the Pacific Islands are lovely and easy to get fellow delivery crew and Fiona can fly up easy. Whatever you do - keep in contact daily as a couple if you can and you'll make it work 😊
Absolutely Sally and that is always an option. So early in the piece at the moment and still finding our feet. This is the next part of the adventure together even though not in the same place. Time is certainly going to tell and we will talk everyday……internet is a wonderful thing.
Fiona you are wonderful. It takes a strong woman to support her husband, no questions asked. As a married woman (50 years) I also try to "go along" and support my spouse whatever his adventures are: flying his own plane(s), scuba diving, sailboat ownership, powerboat ownership, etc.
Why is it us men seem to need the adventure? Wives are wonderful inventions for us out there men. Lucky we got the right ones!
Great to see you back. As I live in USA it really helps to see the cost in US dollars. Looking forward to your future videos.
Multiply by 0.61 and you will get USD
Missed you guys - great to have you back - looking forward to your next adventures on the boat.
And there will be!!
10% of the boat cost, is what normally is your annual spendings. you need to factor in depreciation too eg engine replacement in 10000hours, which might be in 10years, electronics update/repair/replace maybe every 5 years. watermaker every 5-10 years , antifouling boat every year, hull repairs, interior upholstery replacement , so you need to put that money aside( maybe 1-2% every year)
Yip I hear you.
Respect to you both
Thank you so much. We love making each episode and enjoy all the feedback.
The fuel economy on those little Nordhavns is just great. I noticed in the specs for the N41, the fuel burn comes out at 0.52 litres per nautical mile at 5 knots, then practically doubles to 0.98 l/nm at 6 knots and is 1.28 l/nm at 7 knots. Just think, if you had a planing boat of the same size, you'd be looking at 160-220 litres per hour, easy. 3000 miles at that rate would make you cry!
A testament to both the engine manufacturer and design team at Nordhavn…frankly I was totally blown away by how economical the N51 was
Fiona you such a lovely lady. Wishing you and your family all the best !
Yip she is…..she says thanks
Great video, knowing you can purchase items cheaper than EU, would lower your costs. Love your honesty.
Thank you
Glad to see you back Mark sorry that Fiona won't be with you but I totally understand why looking forward to the next adventure. And thank you to you both for the great video.
No worries we so enjoy making each episode. We do love the feedback we get……good and bad
Fully understand yr decisioning to spend some time off the boat at home with kids etc. No right or wrong in the world. As a doubter when I first watched yr channel, your growth has been phenomenal and cant wait for yr future vids no matter who is on board. Hope there will be regular uodates from Blossom Valley . As a fellow Kiwi Ive loved seeing the ‘can do’ attitude and the beautiful places you have been. Mark - if she is not there to tell you off you will have to be mindful- more smiling and let crossed arms on videos. She wont be there to blame for things😅 lets hope the nzd/usd exchange rate improves.
Haha great comments. It is so interesting how you find yourself perceived . I have learnt a lot about myself over the last 6 months. Blossom Valley went really well and a large credit is due to our two boys who manage the property. It was pretty obvious to us they have their hearts in the place. So pleased you hung in there.
Hi Mark, many thanks for the brutal reality of living overseas with the NZ dollar, doesn’t matter how much it cost as long as you have it and you are happy, cheers for the content.
Absolutely right
The good thing is you're both intelligent adults that can make decisions that are good for both of you. You're both accomplished sailors now which is brilliant.
PS. You've got your logistics pipeline established. Only time, bleeding hands and an inquiring mind can establish that.
Fiona, you get the best of both worlds. You remind me of my mum. Friendly, competent and a mind of your own.
Thanks so much
Fiona is truly a saint. I'll just leave it at that.
Ouch
Great Video Mark and Fiona. Mark I will be looking forward to the next video to learn what the custom officials think of the things you are bringing into their country. Fiona enjoy this next month I am going to miss you when you are back home. Also sorry about the NZ naval ship that you lost in the last 10 days or so. So glad no one was injured.
Yes indeed Linda. Lots of our watchers will miss Fiona I think they love how she deals with me! Currently nestled in Trapani, Sicily together and with friends. Starting to head across northern Sicily today……go NZ in Americas Cup
I'm gonna miss the laughs you 2 gave me 😢 Wishing everything works out for you guys 🙏
Oh don’t worry there will be plenty more!
@@AwanuiNZ 🎉🍻
Great to see you guys back, been missing you. Mark give Fiona a big hug from us all. Looking forward to your next adventures, if you’re needing a hand whilst sailing through Scotland, give me a shout, both my wife and I would love to help you through the canal. Cheers 🥃🏴
Yip will do. There will be four of us through the canal perhaps five but we would love to catch up there? Maybe a pint or two?
That would be great
@@murrayduguid218 Really excited about Scotland…maybe two seasons up there
You will love it, West coast is like the Caribbean, Lewis, Usit, Arran, Islay, Jura beautiful for berthing. Mainland Loch Fyne, Inveraray, cally canal. So much to choose 🏴🥃
Great video and good to see you both back. Fantastic honest and interesting resume there. Just off to the Ionian sailing myself. Looking forward to the next instalment. Hope Customs in Tunisia don't take too much interest in the boat spares !!
Nope but very interested in the chocolate we had…that was the plan.
Great vlog and brave to open up Mark and Fiona. I reckon all those years of high flight level cruising for hours on end in the 74, 76 and 777 has prepared Mark well for those long distance low level water ‘cruises’. Of course that does make Fiona - FIFO Fiona the F/O - an elegant and excellent solution to meeting each others life goals. Keep the faith and vlog going. Cheers and beers A❤️👍🇳🇿
Thanks Andy and great to hear from you. Thanks for your support. Having cheers with beers with Paul and Glenis currently settled in Trapani after a long night from Tunisia
@@AwanuiNZ Hi Mark, I couldn’t think of a better couple to share a bevvie with - say hello from us. Safe voyaging👍🇳🇿
@@andyboyd720 Absolutely have
Welcome back, must admit got a wee bit excited when you mentioned Scotland, looking forward to seeing you back on the water.
Gets me going too
Mark and Fiona- you two are Great. Very transparent which is refreshing. Question does the 2,2124,00 include any tax? and are a lot of the replacement parts for the John Deere expensive? Also does Norhavn offer different engines?
and if you need someone for a week or two . Need to get out of the Keys for a bit-- away from these Hurricanes
Hey great question, no it does not include tax…..we will need to pay that when entering NZ. Probably circa $150-$200k - worrying about that in 4 or 5 years. Yip expensive if JD but lots out there on the market OEM like impellers for sea water pump. No options on engines. I am going to see how I go on my own and see how long till Fiona comes back. Will keep all the offers for company/help in mind though. Cheers
I’ve watched all your episodes since launch (from my home in Chicago) . A few comments re your fly bridge . I commented early on that I thought you should spend the money to install Stidd seating on the fly bridge especially since your lower helm is Stidd. How have you felt about the bridge seating?
FYI, I am on our second Sabre yacht . Our first was a 36 flybridge bought new in 2002 and after our complaints to the company about the Pompanette seating, Sabre switched to Stidds only.
You are definitely doing the right thing about adding stability to your Bimini. I looked at old photos of our first Sabre and note the reliance on triangular stainless steel framing. So at the front of the bridge, there are vertical s/s posts at the corners with s/s braces coming down from the top of the vertical posts at an angle abeam and fastened maybe 1.5 feet in from the bottom of the vertical post. Similarly, there are s/s braces coming down from near the top of those corner posts at angles along the side of the bridge forming additional triangles. The hardware and means of attachment look similar to your planned installation.
You will never remove the front bracing because it does not obstruct your vision
Yip that’s exactly where I got to on the bracing. The helm chair is great up there. If and when it needs replacing we will absolutely check out all options
Was this video waited for?? ouh yes.... A what a nice one! no drone footage, but a lot of insight! And it confirms my last comment on the previous video... your relationsship can cope with Fiona being a part time deckhand, and it is warming to learn that it was part of the original "Deal" you made with each other..... Very interesting cost breakdown - and so nice to see you can source parts cheaper by doing some research... I have sent you an email - let s see in due time if it is of interest . not important right now. But it was so nice to see you back on YT. Stay safe both of you and looking so much forward to your next video. All the best.....
Thanks Nicolas I will check my spam as nothing seen…try rammells@xtra.co.nz
Thanks for this very interesting video. To buy a boat is one thing, but to know the real cost of use is the most important thing to avoid financial problem after.....When you speak about the total cost of your N51 about 2,2 M NZ dollars , it's with or without VAT ? thanks !!
Great question ……without
My wife and I have very different interests. It works for both of us. She, nor I, have to cling to the other but we always support each other. It works out very nicely. I really enjoyed this "reveal" episode. I am not surprised at any of the costs, especially while you are abroad. I was not surprised at the cost of Awanui NZ but I was surprised at the cost of the tender. I thought the tender would be much less. Great, great episode!
The perfect marriage enjoys closeness but also gives space. The tender came complete with centre console and outboard…..I was quite pleased with the price.
Thank you for the update Mark and Fiona! Spot on as always. How far do you think you can travel with a full tank? Enough to cross over to French Polynesia etc?
Would need to check the distance but quite probably
That's what you guys have worked for all your life, hard to put a price on that. you only live once.
And yes I have a 12m Bavaria sport two Volvos 310s so I understand. Great trip great memory's.
Love your channel.
Thanks so much we really appreciate all the support we get from watchers
The lady is very very patient.😮
You think
@AwanuiNZ from what I see on yourvlogs, yes
Did you have the solar and fly bridge cover in there somewhere? Plus insurance on the boat? Just curious….good video!
Oooh you are so perceptive…both solar was but Bimini not as Nordhavn paid for that - $16,000 NZ
Solar was, Bimini paid for by Nordhavn….$16k NZ
You are the best !!
So are you, thanks so much for your support
I fully understand where you are coming from. Nothing like yours but we have a boat in theSounds. It is hubbys dream and not mine. I always wanted a caravan. Never got anywhere so thought, whats the next best thing but a caravan on water! I get anxious about boating. i just cant help it. I would not want to be away from grandchildren for long periods. Dont feel guilty. You gave it a go and it just isnt your cup of tea full time. You will still have many years of fun with the boat.
Yip Susan you are right and pretty sure Fiona will spend lots of time with me. All,part of the adventure working out how things will go.
Another great video. If you need an extra crew member for a longer trip, let me know!
Thank you I will
Great update! And fantastic present from the Australian guy, was thinking the same thing on your fishing capabilities ;-( Check out you don't have to pay import duties in Tunisia on all that stuff!
No duties…bar of chocolate fixed that!
Was just thinking about you guys yesterday!!! Spooky. As a side note, things will work out, I'm sure of it.
Absolutely they will. We both have an open mind to this journey and will make changes if we need to.
The biggest cost is depreciation. Especially if you are writing off income against the expenses as a business. That number goes up every year too, where the better half half said keeping the boat up to date to date, an accountant might call depreciation expenses.😀 Thanks for the other costs. Forget Financing....different for everyone.😀
Indeed it is. For us not interested in what it’s worth in the end. That will be something for the kids to sort out.
That's a bargain price for the boat and setup costs. Even taking into account the teething issues!
Absolutely Gary and we expected teething issues with Hull 1. I have and continue to learn so much through the problems we have encountered. Just take them in my stride now.
Take care both of you . . . 💐❤👍👋🇳🇿twa
Absolutely Roger…thank you
Thank you so much for this video. You are so honest, it is truly amazing. It is very interesting and quite frightening how much it coast's to run a boat like yours, thanks for sharing that to.
Looking really forward to your next video.
Thanks for the feedback. Our goal was always to tell our story no holds barred. We want to provide what we had been looking for when we started thinking about this adventure
I sailed/cruised my 50ft Motorsailor all season in the Greek Islands for 740 euro diesel plus marina 950 Euro plus food/entertainment. May be $10K tops total.
Not surprised. Engines burn fuel and require maintenance. Insurance is not cheap for boat like this. Our entertainment costs were certainly higher than expected. Having said that your costs were amazing
Not surprised after all the bickering. Bon Voyage!
Haha…not bickering bouncing off each other
Think you missed the point.
@@Bob-bo8ik Hardly.
@@Bob-bo8ikSorry I must be thick…I don’t get it…bit slow
@@eugenedreyer4805Still lost?
from the hart from both of you well done
Fair wind and claim seas
Thanks so much. We so enjoy making each episode
Hello interested in your insurance prices seem high compared to what I pay , for 1 year in Europe great square basically everywhere you are planning on being for time is 3k Euros. My insurance company has the option to extend voyage as needed. Something that may reduce your costs. Great channel thankyou for sharing.
Ok so which insurance company? Boat insured for $2.1m NZ
This is me and my wife. I have to explain everything to her in a patronising way. Then when she points out I am wrong I make up a crap excuse.
Ok so if that is how it comes across it is not my intention. I hope I own my mistakes and I certainly try not to be patronising
I personally don’t get the grandkid thing, it’s an incredible adventure in your life and it’s your life to live, grandkids will be there when you get back.
Yip but they will be different. We can cope with some time apart
@@AwanuiNZI agree, it’s always about finding that balance and what matters to you.
You have not got grandkids 1 minute is a long time ❤❤❤❤❤
@ 🙄
Shipping your yacht closer to NZ would be wiser.Or continue with competent crew. Cheers from retired 75 mariner.and former yachty.Ocean not to be played with but respected .You keep your life in return. Believe me
Did you include the marina fees?
Yip absolutely
Put awanui on a boat to nz you get the best of both worlds.
The point is I want to do my best to voyage on her back to NZ. It’s always an option.
Wow, I thought here in New Zealand anything to do with boats they charged like wounded bulls. I might have to rethink my ideas 😁
Well I think it is everywhere. The best option is to use the internet but then you need an address to send things to. So far we have found it quite hard to secure a friendly address. Anodes though are different the outfit in Auckland is amazing.
@@AwanuiNZ yes, when I was fishing I used to buy a zinc bar and make my own. My bro in-law had a lathe to make the ends. I had a steel boat and had about eight zincs throughout the piping and had to change them about once a month. Would have cost me a fortune in Europe 😁
@@cyrillawless Yip can be scary expensive at times
Dont diddle round. Just round it up to 5 mil 😅
Ouch
😂@@AwanuiNZ
The joys of a diesel sucking monster. I'd go yacht every time. Same speed, usually faster, safer, quieter and most certainly cheaper. WoW. too much money. What a liability.
Ok so same speed, usually faster I do not agree with…we watch sailboats tacking backwards and forwards covering twice the distance all the time…they usually give up and motor, likely enjoying going in a straight line when the wind disappears. Most yachts I see are noisy, this boat is exceptionally quiet. Cheaper yes cannot argue with that. Each to their own.
My retirement kiwisaver is just over what you yearly fuel bill is . .
👍👋🇳🇿🍻twa
Yes indeed we are lucky. Our hope is we can continue to enjoy Awanui NZ
Mark needs to work on his Narcissism somewhat
Ouch that hurt. Never been accused of that before!
Not sure if it's called Narcissim in this case sorry.
@ my apologies if I’ve got it wrong or offended anyone
Guy has a bit of a curmudgeon way towards the wife. She puts up with it. I wouldn't. Maybe that's why she wants him gone with his boat toy, I guess. 😂😅
I will take that as a compliment
It’s painful listening to a man who barks orders.
Sad
My man you need to tack on another $300 a month for some cannabis because your stress level is off the charts. Great video Keep Floating 😉✌️🛥
I feel great just on the spectrum…according to my daughter
@@AwanuiNZ Cannabis definitely helps with that. I should know I use it😉
@@AwanuiNZ You have a very beautiful boat And I think you're doing it right. You only have one life to live so live your best life and be happy.
I'm looking at the Nordhavn 41 to live on 7 months a year. East coast of the USA from Chesapeake Bay to The Bahamas would be my travel Itinerary. What's your thoughts?
@@Miami305NightsJust do it!
L🍿
Okidoki
Привет Капитан!, сейчас Фиона послушная видимо ты использовал мой совет и привязал её теми милыми цепями.
Мои советы очень хороши, послушай как можно скорей перегоняй лодку домой, возможны военные осложнения, возьми с собой друга в дорогу, а Фиону сохрани дома, она пригодится тебе для игр с цепями.
Weird man
It will get way cheaper next year with the new system and way less taxes worldwide.
Insurance is a total scam.
Wondering Hillbilly got scammed.
His Insurance didn't pay out.
Hope you're not with that one.
Pantaneus
@@AwanuiNZ Salvage modern day pirate wondering hillbilly.
Worth a watch
$10,000 investment into a business co-op returns 40,000 per year.
30,000 investment 120,000, your years boating is free.
Lost I am sorry
@@AwanuiNZ By investing in business co-ops your boating will be free.
My boat will be free
@@AwanuiNZBusiness co-op
@@AwanuiNZYou invest in businesses and get part of the profits every year
@@MarketingStrategies28 still lost