The suspects ended up being caught, in part, due to this footage being passed around the local businesses. They were charged for various crimes including a stolen Kayak (which they stole earlier on in the night). We hope the suspects get the help they need to live fruitful and fulfilling lives.
Ben, any chance you can rig some flood lights to turn on when the alarm goes off, one fore and one aft from the mast or rigging? Then you can watch the rats scatter.
What you did with the PIR motion sensor (removed when in transit) is a great idea Ben. It helped / saved you that night for sure!! What about a similar setup for motion activated LED Floodlights on a QD mount, (same for the power supply). Then you could light up the whole deck from your bed and stow it before sailing. (There are some specialized motion-activated 110V lighting control components available - retrofit that will integrate nicely with all manner of activation methods.)
A hockey stick truly is THEE Canadian multi-tool. Mine has served as recreational, weaponry, broom, wildlife rescue equipment, over-head grabber, you name it!
You obviously have never had to fight for your life. Strangers on a boat 2:30 am,in a strange country is not like chasing a racoon off the back deck. 911 isn't coming, in most cases, doesn't exist. Are you a survivor, or a statistic. A hockey stick, give your head a shake.
After my boat was boarded the first time I bought two signs and mounted them on the handrails, one port beam and one starboard beam. They read “ Warning Video Surveillance!” or something similar. From Home Depot. I also installed two IR hunting stealth cameras that take photos at night. Set them up to capture anyone near your boat in the water and on deck. Lastly I got a SAM alarm system similar to what you got here that signals an alarm when any door or window is opened and when movement on deck is detected. A good pirates cutlass is good to have on board against knives and machetes and a spear gun for farther distances as both are usually legal on a boat. The wife says she would never shoot anyone but I bet if some thief has a knife to your throat she might sing a different tune. Things change when a loved one’s life is being threatened. I pray you never experience that. Safe travels!
@@Darenbranch Not always. In a previous video that he actually references in this video, he had a traditional Spear Gun that the authorities were going to confiscate so he broke it. What each country allows is different, so without looking it up, you can land in VERY hot water in a foreign country where you don't understand the legal system, and where you might not have the same rights that you did back home. When traveling in a foreign country, you want to avoid adverse interactions with authorities at all costs.
Downlights on the mast light the boat and water round it. High intensity lights behind the glass of the bridge deck windows and door blinds them whilst not you .. lighting up the aft deck.. personal attack alarms have a pin trigger that can be linked to monofilament fishing line trip wires ..120db screaming is enough to send them away...and alerts you. To light up the boat outside.
no way, if the boat is illuminated, you and the assailant are illuminated as with a torch only the assailant, is and if it's a powerful torch, only the assailant is blinded
i both agree and disagree with that. Security lighting shouldnt be placed same as you would floodlighting. Hi power floodlights aimed outwards from the door would also blind anyone looking inwards while giving crew/owners privacy from been seen.
You're safe, the children are safe, the boat is safe, and the suspects have been caught. That's a very good ending. Years ago I had always thought that dad was a bit over the top, as he had a pair of diesel truck horns hooked up to an auxiliary battery, with actuator buttons in six or seven locations. One of the horns was attached halfway up the mizzen mast. The were LOUD and sound carried for more than a mile when they were set off. Now, after you're encounter, I see the practicality of that set up. Please stay safe and thank you for sharing.
Whatever defence instruments you decide to get (doesn't necessarily have to be a gun), never tell or show anyone, including your viewers. The element of surprise could mean life or death in such situations. Stay safe.
@@chad1755 true except for they have 2 young children onboard. A fire extinguisher is the best I've read on here. Every boat needs one & once they get hit by that they will jump off the boat & drop any weapons they might have had. Ultimately just glad no one was harmed & the scum was caught
First of all, so glad you are safe and sound. One thing that I'm sure you have on board is a fire extinguisher, dry or CO2, will knock the person back, and it is perfectly legal and useful both when it is full or empty - if the discharge doesn't do enough. Check the distance that your extinguisher projects out and the broadcast area of it. Blessings, and take care!
If you havnt been in that situation, you can never know what youd have done. Things happen so quickly and its all reaction without really thinking. So glad you guys are safe and nothing was taken.
So happy you weren’t hurt and nothing was taken.has to be scary!! Glad the video helped catch them!! Delos did the same using video they took.well done.it’s sad you had to experience this side of cruising Fair winds ⛵️
Good floodlights on the spreaders to light up the deck and surrounding area quickly at the flick of a switch helps. Thieves don't like being exposed and really don't like being photographed. BUT can turn violent. Boats legitimately can carry good antiboarding weapons. Think boat-hook with a sharp end. Belaying pins were a old standby but a good selection of thumping implements hidden around can help....yeah my kid is REALLY into cricket of baseball etc officer! Just part of the adventure and adds to the stories to be told years down the track. Just seeing Ben running out the door bare arsed would have scared anyone but the really desperate thief overboard .....ha ha! The alarm is a great idea! Cheers and G'day from Tasmania
I just agree. I have high LED solar lights that light up to motion detection and they are great… scared my hubby a couple of times when I showed up unexpectedly after work and he said those are great theft deterrents… Motion activated lights work great…
G’day from Queensland - a red cattle dog helps too 😁 all that sudden cranky dog and snarling and barking frightens the bejesus out of surprise visitors - bloody shame that dogs for international sailing is just too much humbug
Yeah an alarm audible outside of the boat would help as well. A lit up boats with alarms going off with bring a lot of attention and the burglars will want to leave. Just lights doesn't get as much attention.
I live in the seychelles and I got my little boat stolen, got it back the same day but no footage unfortunately. These guys need to be dealt with, so good you got them on film but so sad this is what happens here and what a bad reputation it gives us. Glad you are safe and hope the rest of your stay is uphill from here. Great trade winds for sailing at the moment!
You actually did one of the best things to do when confronting someone like this: Naked and yelling like a mad man/woman... scares the crap out of them because they think you're possessed.
That is an awful experience. Thankful you all are safe. I am sure the other 4 boats would like to know thieves are lurking near by looking to steal from any of the boats at anchor. We had a situation happen to us at anchor. We turned every light on spot lighted the thieves got on our P.A. system sounded the alarm and called out the theives as they tried to get away. Other boats near by called the authorities and the criminals had a reception at the beach when they got to shore. Never be embarassed or apologetic for defending your family or your home. Boaters appreciate the warning and they should work together to keep their community safe. Glad you are o-k.
From my experience having been in combat three times, my advice is to work out a course of action that you're comfortable with, practice it a few times. Then if you get boarded again, you will not have to take any time-consuming decisions, you will immediately act. Also, always assume you will be boarded. That way, you'll have the batteries either fresh or charged. Good luck!
@ Douglas Daniel, I agree, you need to have a plan of what exactly your actions are going to be. That should be basically muscle memory, no second guessing, no thinking, just action, at least the beginning.
@@lutomson3496 I wouldn't be so harsh, a camera system won't stop half-wit criminals from doing the unthinkable. I think having a couple higher end kitchen knives, and a couple high end powerful flashlights (100-300usd range).
I have found that in extreme conditions, that a simple flare gun will do the job, either by intimidation, or 1200F flare in their boat that can't be put out by water.
We carry Wasp Spray with us, it shoots quite a distance and it's legal to own in pretty much every country. We don't have to declare it as we move about.
The first video I ever watched of you guys’ was the one about how you defend against pirates. I’ve been hooked ever since. I am so sorry you had to go through this, I can’t imagine how scary it was, especially with the two little ones on board. I’m so glad you guys have been prepared for this to happen for so long, and I’m even happier everyone is safe and nothing was stolen or damaged.
Appreciate the calm and rationale response and manner in which you handled this Thanks for the tip on the alarm, will look at getting some for my boat Glad you are all safe Kind regards
Good thing they were only petty thieves and not kidnappers/extortionists or pirates. You really need a viable defense, especially with loved ones on board. Glad everything turned out okay.
I think you reacted just as I would have in the same situation. Like you guys said, "This is the first time we've been boarded." I am so happy it turned out the way it did and you and the babies are safe. I would try to have a way to wake up the neighbors. Maybe a few buddy boats leave their radios on a specific channel with the volume up thru the night. Have you had any luck with getting the bulkheads fixed so you can get out of there safely? I personally wouldn't be able to sleep after that. Stay SAFE guys!
Have a whistle on your neck and blow it to scare them and wake up the other boats! I used to work at night and this was my defence. Making noise works‼
I produce advertising photo shoots and commercials ... .. when we travel to foreign countries, everyone gets a “crew packet” and on the first page at the very top I put in large bold type the emergency numbers for that country. One day in St. Barths right in front of us there was a vehicle accident which went up onto the sidewalk striking pedestrians ... the entire crew looked at each other and said “DIAL 17” ... and everyone called for an ambulance. In the past lots of the regular crew members would joke about the emergency numbers. We would be eating lunch and someone would sneeze and one of the guys would shout out the emergency number ... which is pretty funny. The day of that accident I was actually really proud that all the crew members remembered the correct emergency number. When you’re in a foreign country and suddenly something happens, not knowing the correct emergency number makes you feel incredibly vulnerable.
STRONG WORDS HERE....I hate burglars and theives! I was a law enforcement officer for close to 30 years.... I've had to do the unthinkable. Those two obviously not the welcome wagon....I would want justice and someone to answer for their crimes....BUT...other than your children and each of you... there's nothing on board worth get hurt or killed over...all that stuff can be replaced. Prayers...stay safe
@@cbc229 Yep, dudes last name is pretty descriptive it appears. My guess is ole Vic got caught breaking the law at some point and blames law enforcement versus looking in the mirror 😂
First, congrats on being extremely more assertive than most people, even the ones you were anchoring next to! Very happy it ended well. I would also get a bunch of those motion detection led lights to flood the deck and foredeck when movement is present (also could help with coming back at night)
"I wouldn't shoot someone in this country." I'm an extremely good competitive shooter. I'm as pro-gun as it is possible to be. And there's no way in I'd try to sneak a gun into a foreign country. That's a ticket to a long stay in the local Iron Bar Motel if you're lucky. I think it's a terrible infringement on your natural right of self defense, but that's not an argument that keeps you from being everyone's favorite punching bag (or worse) in a third world prison.
I keep guns no matter what the law says. But I am wise in hiding them. It is easy on a boat. The only time I would ever use it would be to protect life. Many people in this world are becoming lawless. They are now stuck in Africa on a broken boat. They would be fools to sail south to South Africa as the seas there might rip that boat in pieces. So they either need to fix it there or sail north to Saudi Arabia or Egypt where it will be the cheapest to fix that boat. The horn of Africa is a horrible place. Children are sold into slavery. White children are worth a lot more. There is no way on earth I would stand by and let my children be taken. If intruders have guns you are SOL without one yourself. But if you are skilled, you have an excellent chance at taking them all out.
Add motion light, motion action cameras. Connect alarm to boat horn. (Similar to truck horns but stronger). Will awake most people around anchorage. And scare any thief. SSL captain rick have a great setup for surveillance system and light.
A powerful handheld strobe light is very effective as it not only blinds a potential assailant but can actually make them dizzy and sick. I have one that functions not only as a strobe but an extremely powerful spotlight
Yes. First thing before leaving the Cabin is to turn on your steaming and decklights. If all dark and they have lights they might blind you before you can. Headlamp with high lumen is great since everybody you actually look at gets blinded. Before leaving cabin make sure it is on high light output.
I would either always keep a light on inside to show that someone might still be awake. You could also put up motion detector lights around the boat that will light up whenever somebody comes up to the boat. My thought is you don’t want to be the easiest target, so I’m thinking a light of some sort will help with that.
I have an industrial alarm that I can turn on and wake anybody around. I also have a couple of really really bright spotlights so that I could light up someone trying to make an escape while others come out to see what the noise is.
Glad you and the kids are safe #1! What about some self defense items like a baseball ball or bear spray canisters? I also second the ideas said by others on motion activated lighting as well. What about putting the spear gun in a shadow display box that could mount to the walls ? Maybe that way it’s decorative and maybe certain countries authorities wouldn’t consider it a weapon?
First off I’d like to say we have been avid viewers of your channel since day 1 of your adventure. You’ve come a long way in a short amount of time & the memories you’ve created are priceless. In terms of protecting your family we view that as number 1. Much like you equip your vessel with the necessary electronics, PFD’s Dingy etc. to keep your family as safe as possible on your journey. I view protection of your family as the same. In fact I view It as paramount. We have also have young children & wherever we journey to we always make sure we have the means to protect ourselves. Here are our thoughts on what you can do for personal protection. A Flare Gun which I’m sure you have on board is a very effective means of protection. If that’s not your cup of tea might I recommend a High Powered Co2 Paint Ball Gun. Keep your paintballs frozen in a mini freezer in your cabin. FROZEN PAINTBALLS WILL INFLICT MAJOR INJURY TO THE PERPETRATOR. These paintball guns have the ability of firing automatic with hundreds of rounds per second. If you were to fire a high powered paint ball gun into someone’s face for protection I can assure you that would immediately stop them in their tracks. First thing It would immediately Blind them from the paint. They would not be able to see anything. Secondly their face will be cut up badly & bleeding 🩸 & Swollen & they would require stitches to sew 🪡 their face back together. Another source of protection is your Spear Gun (Highly Effective) I wouldn’t trust a Taser when it comes to protecting my wife & children. You don’t want to have any physical contact with perpetrators. At any rate, hope you guys find some of this information we shared as useful. Unfortunately we live in a not so safe world & it’s up to us as individuals to protect ourselves. It is our right to do so. Looking forward to what you find out on your vessel. Stay safe & safe travels guys! Aloha 🌊🤙🏽
We were boarded in the inner harbor of Grenada West Indies. The only time in over 35 countries and 25 yrs of cruising. It was a sneak thief. Went through the boat stern to stem, in the companionway and out the fore-hatch. 4 of us on boarded and the only way that we knew that anything happened was that they let the fore hatch slam. We didn’t know that we were robbed until morning when we found wallets missing, expensive sun glasses etc. The next night they went aboard a German boat and the owner jumped him. Had a fight that he won (after getting his ear badly bit). And turned him in to the Police. I think that having an agreed upon quiet VHF channel to monitor at night is a good idea. We also carried bear spray and CS spray and had several cans hidden so that one was always in arms reach. Never had to use it. But good to have. I have very mixed feelings about guns. Many countries just take them away while in port soooo??? And yes, in a foreign country, you don’t want to shoot someone unless you or a crew/family are about to die.
As a gun packing midwesterner, I'd be the first to agree that a gun is NOT the proper solution for your situation. You are sailing into mostly known ports in countries that are certainly not gun friendly. Not to mention, no one should have a gun they are not willing to use. Honestly, I think your reaction was perfect. Criminals don't want noise or light and since your light didn't work, noise was a good runner up. I keep an air horn and spotlight close by when I'm camping. It might be a good time to upgrade your lighting. They make some wonderfuly powerful self defense lights now. I'm very glad you are safe! I was the victum of a home invasion many years ago and it was pretty traumatic. (they kicked our door in at 1:00 AM) And I love it that you're alarm went off and they got caught!
I am so glad you guys are OK and nothing was taken. That must have been a frightful experience, especially with the kids on board. I saw some good ideas on this post for stepping up your security. Bright flood lights that come on when your alarm goes off and a hunting camera and warning sign seem like a good idea. A metal pipe to hit someone over the head while they try to board may be an alternative to a gun as guns are illegal most places, how about a small cross bow? Do you have a really loud horn? It's a sad reality that in addition to having to deal with the normal perils of the sea, you have to worry about being boarded. Stay safe guys. ❤️
Hello. Glad that nothing bad happened to you guys!! A suggestion: Installing lamp lights that sensor motion, movement, would be very helpful too. Also, a flashlight with strobe light helps to distract and affect the not wanted invaders. Yes, having some kind of pepper spray, or defense weapon is needed because if you don't have it they will know, and will take advantage obviously.Its a family that needs protection so even a dog is a good idea ;)
What gets me is you guys are so nice and generous that anyone thats that desperate you guys will take your shirt off your back to help anyone in need!! I agree with no guns but what I would have is a really strong staff an get trained correctly with it! Much love from the coast of Maine,USA❤
BTW don't have a new wooden part made!! Just use tightbond wood glue an trust me it will be better then original!! Stuff is amazing, just clamp an squeeze out most of the glue until dry💯
There are a few dead people who would disagree with your no gun, stance. There is an old saying, "don't take a knife to a gun fight", your staff will get you killed, too many brainless people these days.
Portable capstun. They may get away, but they're going to have oleoresin stains on whatever clothing/skin touched by your spray as well as alot of pain in their eyes from the irritant, making it easier for authorities to detect suspects later. As far as a hand-held "war club" is concerned, an expandable baton (ASP is a well known brand name) would be my choice over a war club. It has the added psychological benefit of making a very distinctive sound when being deployed, especially if you see them and they haven't detected you. Deploy the baton in the dark, then hit your deck lights, spotlight, etc. The panic. confusion, and disorientation are a strong defensive deterrent...
Hello Ben and Ashley, Thought provoking video. I know as Parents of young people, you need to start each day well rested and able to teach, nourish and support them. In order to do that, you need to have a plan that is both legal and effective so you can sleep when in a port. At first I thought of leg hold traps on deck but dismissed that as too messy if a criminal steps in one and too dangerouse if you go on deck groggy and step in one yourself. Guns of any kind is a hard no. Fire extinguishers are an easy yes as is alarm systems like you already have and motion activated lights but the best plan would be to lock your dingy when at anchor and bring all toys inboard so thieves don't see them as easy targets in the first place. I have a 33' ex Forestry patrol boat and just inside the companion way hatch is a 3' long Lignum Vitae mini bat. (It is the densest and hardest wood known) and mine has a lanyard at the end so it can be swung. Rest assured that if you swing it, what ever you hit will break! Anyway , let me know if there's anything I can do. Cheers to you and your little ones from Nanaimo.
Setup some seawater hoses to a pump that can be switched on from inside, You mention they do not like being wet but it also makes it difficult to board when everything slippery. Outside of that I'd secure things with a wire to make it harder for them to grab stuff and run. Sure they might have bolt cutters but it will slow them down and make noise. The last thing is some really bright lights and Audible alarm; It will wake other boats in the vicinity and the sudden high pitched noise/light will have them second guessing. I wouldn't advise ever going to confront or chase them down especially in countries where the law is unlikely to take a foreigners side. Non firearm weapons should only be used if they try to enter the cabin, outside of that id stay clear. Remember, they still have to make it back to shore where, hopefully, the authorities can pick them up. If not well that sucks but at least your not seriously injured in a foreign country whilst trying to weigh anchor/organise transport to shore. You are two + kids, I don't think there is any use in heroics.
The lesson is, upgrade your alarm system to give full coverage, connect it to floodlights and audible alarms. Do that and most would be thief's will stay away. Add in motion detection cameras too if you are paranoid enough. But doing that is and more are what bigger yacht's do and such systems are usually added during the build too to yachts. But clearly a type of audible alarm with full coverage is a good idea in today's age and time. The alarms should be loud too, so that it wakes up everyone, think fire alarm. But that might be rather rude to the other ships around you, so maybe something in between a screaming alarm and something you might not wake up from would be best. I really like the removal solution you have, just remember to always put it up when being close to a city or others or add a more permanent solution with full cover that can be shutdown when not needed.
It happened to me, I broadcast on CH 16 informing everyone of Thieves around, also turned on the on deck hose to wet them, and almost let of the fire extinguisher ..Also a pot of boiling water thrown at them.. they soon got the message.
Glad you’ve got away with just a fright there & are safe. Rightly so, a firearm or other weapon is only worth having if you are both well trained and prepared to use it. More lights triggered by the motion sensors is one option. Along with an outside alarm for them. They won’t like attention - bright lights and noise cause that. Along with looking at security cameras. Both for evidence and to safely assess the situation on deck without being visible.
I agree with you regarding guns onboard. Restrictions in various countries makes it pretty difficult. I think the simplest is light and sound as a good defense. Your hi-beam flashlight and perhaps an air horn would be good deterrents and alert everyone else that thieves are in the water. I also like the floodlight and flare suggestions. Stay safe!
The only other possible deterrent i havent seen mentioned is a blinking red light like you see blinking in cars to show they have a security system or suggest a camera is recording. Glad you all are safe! *I would also like to point out that getting their faces on camera, like you did, is the key. SV Delos chased a swimming thief around in their dinghy for hours and they still got away. You also open yourself up to injury chasing them down. You did it right
As Dave stated you should have some 12V LED flood lights around the boat that go on when the alarm is activated. I agree that a firearm is not the answer, but a spear gun could be of help if needed.
Am in Texas & never carry, in my 4 years at sea would always just yell & attack & the thieves always ran. Think many thieves expect a scared tourist & are shocked when a real man stands up to them. A small baseball bat might help dissuade a more aggressive thief.
As you said many times, having a gun is difficult for legal reasons - but there are many similar weapons that are permitted, any form of harpoon gun or even just a long-distance melee weapon like a (fishing) spear. And then the classic deescalation things: Don't stand inbetween them and their way out, give them time/opportunity to escape, don't dash into close quarters with them. Even if they are armed with i.e. a machete, nobody who sees a man with a spear standing 5m away from them will decide to charge into that. If they do have a firearm, best lock yourself in whatever secure area there is on the boat. Stand at a safe angle inside this place where you cannot be hit by a person shooting through a door or a window. If you don't have cover, use concealment (i.e. use pillows etc to block out vision from windows or similar. They don't stop bullets but it's very unlikely an attacker will hit you if they can't see you if you stand at a safe angle). And of course call authorities as soon as you locked the door and quickly bring the kids to safety. Your first priority must be to protect your group from the threat overall, so you can't spend time babysitting he kids at the same time. Find them a safe spot and tell them not to move (kids are small so it's pretty easy), then you have your hands free to i.e. conceal windows, call authorities, etc
Wow! Glad you guys are okay. When watching other cruising videos when the topic of guns and self-protection was brought up, I always thought I could never sail without at least a couple pistols and a couple AR-15s.
DON'T have a gun, if you are not prepared to use it, it could become a weapon against you! Ben, you are a great protector. You kicked instantly in to protect! Much love and respect. Maybe a good set of LED spots? Flare gun? Illuminate the sky? Just thoughts. May the Gods continue to protect you and your family. Jay
So glad that you are safe. Did you ever consider getting a dog? It may have alerted you earlier to their presence and a dog’s barking would most likely deter thieves from boarding. Get a baseball bat and put a sock over the end. If you use it and they try to grab it they will get a handful of sock and you will have an opportunity to get them. Best of luck.
When we were in the Seychelles, plenty of people got boarded while at anchor, even during plain daylight. They broke into our yacht in the evening while in port on Praslin Marina, and stole all cash. Plenty of people got their outboard or dinghy stolen from the beaches.
Get a blunt end 8 foot pole that you can poke them with, and a simple paint gun filled with paint balls. The simple semi automatic paint ball gun hurts like hell but does not kill. It will also mark them with paint which is identifiable. The striking end of the pole should be smooth and slippery
Ok, I understand that having a gun on board has its negatives. But you have flare guns and standard flares. A large knife would be what I carried. A mace is also a good tool. Solar powered, motion sensor flood lights are also worth evey penny.
There are guns that shoot defensive pepper pellets at distances of up to 60 feet.. The pellets come in a magazine that holds 5 - 6 pellets. The gun is powered by co2 cartridges. It looks like a regular gun to scare the intruder but doesn't need to be licenced. I think its called Byrna. Just a suggestion.
A long Hawaiian sling would be great self defense. Can be ready in two seconds and can be used over and over quickly. A speargun does not like to sit loaded and is really hard to quickly reload. A Hawaiian sling can be used to just poke or actually shoot. The three long prong ones are great since they do not get caught in hectic defense due to no barbs on them. One with barbs or hooks can actually get caught in attackers clothing and you might that way supply the attacker with your sling if attacker moves fast to rip it out of your hands. Ideally you like the sling return to you after shooting it. So hold on to the tubing. You longer your sling the farther is your reach.
I agree in having no gun. The alarm is great. We also have some strong Laser Pointer. These chinese Pointers with LiIon Battery are brutal. There are really strong flashlights and Laserpointer. You have to be careful using them but having visitors at night...
Be confident and loud if they just want your stuff that will cause them to stop and decide if they want a confrontation. You can always back up and shut the door. But a good club is handy also!
We're Canadian. We are travelling in our Roadtrek camper van in Canada and heading down to Mexico. My husband has a hockey stick and a baseball bat with which he will look very threatening. We have cellphones to call police. I might go to Home Depot and pick up an alarm though:) Thanks for another wonderful video. I love them:)
You should have a crossbow and a siren onboard. Guns are problematatic while travelling, but a crossbow could have the same effect when in real danger, but isn't as restricted, as a gun... Also a siren is in my opportunity very effective against thieves. They are very offensive, because they know, that before anyone realises, that they are thieves, they escape. I don't have a boat, althought it's my biggest dream, but I have some houses, condos and flats, which I hope will help me to get a boat sometime. But my experience with thievs is following: You have to shock them more, than they schock you, because they flee in that case, or if they don't flee, you,definitely have to have some backup - that's the crossbow for example...
Sitting in KwaZulu RSA and I am most concerned for your trip down the east coast. I follow a few choice channels including Colin on Parlay Revival. Did you mention that you are in direct contact by e mail ??? Sailing Florence had an incredibly calm (lucky ?) sail down and around after some repairs in Seychelles. I am looking forward to you being well looked after where you are and by the Lagoon company. Peace, Love and Blessings...
Sorry to see you're having a rough time of it there. Seychelles was a bucket list item for us. But, we've been doing our research on such things: The Seychelles is twice as crime prone as the Philippines. And the Philippines is twice as crime prone as Mauritius. So recently Mauritius has been rising in our view. Every place has its problems though. Mauritius is twice as crime prone as Saudi Arabia, for example... and none of these places (or any other place) is worry free.
A friend of mine used to keep his boat at anchor ( he was not live aboard). He posted a sign "Property of Russia" with a hammer and sickle on it (he was ex Spaznez) strangely, he NEVER had a problem at all.
Your alarm needs to be loud enough to wake neighboring boats, or a separate very loud siren you can turn on so your neighbors can know you need help. You need to have spotlights in the mast you can flood the area around your boat at night so you are not wasting time with flashlights that may or not be working.
The people saying " you need a gun on board!" likely live in the US, are armchair travelers and have no clue that the rest of the world has gun control laws, some of them downright draconian even by Canadian standards. But a good reminder for yourselves to be a bit more prepared for security. Thanks for sharing and stay safe.
Some home made pepper spray in a spray bottle would at least be something of a deterent at close quarters , some game cameras mounted on the boat covering access points would be handy for after the fact identification to local authorities. Sensor lights mounted to the boat to light up the water around the boat if anyone gets close would be handy also
As you noted, confronting the thieves could have been a bad idea, but you got away with it. From a defensive point of view, having a firearm on the boat is more dangerous to you than an intruder if you're not willing to use it. Add to that, many of the countries that you already have visited and have yet to visit will frown on your possession of a firearm within their borders, to say the least. A firearm probably isn't going to help you. Instead, you'll want to concentrate on being unattractive to a thief/intruder. You guys already know how to do that, anchor farther out, lights that your batteries can support, etc. Your use of the motion sensor was genius. Fair winds
💖🇨🇦 I think you need a break. I know there are tough times coming up. I hope you find a way to get through it. And of course you will because that's what families do 👪
Hey Ben n Ashley, I agree with you, carrying a gun(s) is "never" a great thing, as they can cause more damage, they are worth. Here I am referring to the authorities being over dramatic to "foreigners" carrying weapons. As you saw with your "now" broken speargun. So yes, carrying a gun can cause so much unnecessary damage. But on the other hand, I did carry a "sling shot", as I have mentioned before, when you guys were being hounded by the fishermen a few weeks back. Now hear me out, a sling shot, with marbles as your choice of ammo, is easily concealed and so handy to use. Like you folks, we raised our 2 young kids on board, for many many years and the sling shot, was used a few times, mostly to ward off possible unwanted visitors. My wife, being only 4'10", was a tiny thing and she became such a deadly shot. Yep, there is NOTHING like a mother protecting her offspring, you just have to stay clear. Well using "marbles", as I am sure you know what they are, can shatter, if you are shooting at a fishing (or other type) boats, who "are not" heeding your warning to move away. As time went on and the kids (girl n boy) grew, we had them practice with the sling shot. We all became very very accurate with this item. The only time the item was viewed by customs was in Mozambique and thankfully, they had NO IDEA what is was or how to use it, so they did not hold the item until we departed. So keeping your doorbell alarm going, is a great thing and I too applaud that idea. Then grab the sling shot, just in case and you can just put it into the back of your shorts, if there is no need to send marbles out into the night. We did also use the sling shot, to ward off, of all things, Orca's. Yes they can be a pain and attack your rudders, as this is their way of slowing and trying to hunt, as it DOES HAPPEN. It would not kill Orca's, but the sting from the marbles was more than enough to let them know, BACK OFF. Ok, stay safe and hope all goes well for the next part of your journey.
Inexpensive strain gauge epoxied onto the underside of areas you must step on to access the boat. Hooked into a alarm and lights. No bird caused false alarms. Worth considering,
Live electrical wires fencing can work wonders on a thief's motivation, and if the voltage is high enough, the zap is loud enough to wake you up too. If it doesn't, the hollering and cursing that follows the zap will definitely wake up everyone.
I do promote arming my vessel. That being said you don't have to have a lethal weapon. Some bear spray and a tazer or shotgun with non lethal rounds are a suggestion. That being said having harbor patrol on speed dial for sure. And plenty of lumens do wonders. Remember some criminals are armed so training with any weapons you may chose is highly recommend.
The suspects ended up being caught, in part, due to this footage being passed around the local businesses. They were charged for various crimes including a stolen Kayak (which they stole earlier on in the night). We hope the suspects get the help they need to live fruitful and fulfilling lives.
Ben, any chance you can rig some flood lights to turn on when the alarm goes off, one fore and one aft from the mast or rigging? Then you can watch the rats scatter.
The help they need is jail
What you did with the PIR motion sensor (removed when in transit) is a great idea Ben. It helped / saved you that night for sure!!
What about a similar setup for motion activated LED Floodlights on a QD mount, (same for the power supply). Then you could light up the whole deck from your bed and stow it before sailing. (There are some specialized motion-activated 110V lighting control components available - retrofit that will integrate nicely with all manner of activation methods.)
4get what they steal its so scary some nut jobs around
Jail is unkind in these places...like it needs to be..
As a Canadian myself, I recommend keeping a nice hockey stick close at hand.
Lol...great comment
Ehhhh
A hockey stick with a 45 caliber barrel right through the middle…
A hockey stick truly is THEE Canadian multi-tool. Mine has served as recreational, weaponry, broom, wildlife rescue equipment, over-head grabber, you name it!
You obviously have never had to fight for your life. Strangers on a boat 2:30 am,in a strange country is not like chasing a racoon off the back deck. 911 isn't coming, in most cases, doesn't exist. Are you a survivor, or a statistic. A hockey stick, give your head a shake.
After my boat was boarded the first time I bought two signs and mounted them on the handrails, one port beam and one starboard beam. They read “ Warning Video Surveillance!” or something similar. From Home Depot. I also installed two IR hunting stealth cameras that take photos at night. Set them up to capture anyone near your boat in the water and on deck. Lastly I got a SAM alarm system similar to what you got here that signals an alarm when any door or window is opened and when movement on deck is detected. A good pirates cutlass is good to have on board against knives and machetes and a spear gun for farther distances as both are usually legal on a boat. The wife says she would never shoot anyone but I bet if some thief has a knife to your throat she might sing a different tune. Things change when a loved one’s life is being threatened. I pray you never experience that. Safe travels!
Dumb thing to say about the gun. You would get arrested in most countries if you had a gun on board.
@@teeanahera8949 he said a spear gun ! Totally legal
@@Darenbranch Not always. In a previous video that he actually references in this video, he had a traditional Spear Gun that the authorities were going to confiscate so he broke it. What each country allows is different, so without looking it up, you can land in VERY hot water in a foreign country where you don't understand the legal system, and where you might not have the same rights that you did back home.
When traveling in a foreign country, you want to avoid adverse interactions with authorities at all costs.
Yeah right 🧢🧢🧢
@@rice0009 very very true
Glad everyone is ok. You should get some floodlighting fitted to illuminate the boat like daylight in cases like that, better than a torch.
Downlights on the mast light the boat and water round it.
High intensity lights behind the glass of the bridge deck windows and door blinds them whilst not you .. lighting up the aft deck.. personal attack alarms have a pin trigger that can be linked to monofilament fishing line trip wires ..120db
screaming is enough to send them away...and alerts you. To light up the boat outside.
Better to use high lumen focused beam to impair their night vision & leave them fumbling in the dark.
no way, if the boat is illuminated, you and the assailant are illuminated as with a torch only the assailant, is and if it's a powerful torch, only the assailant is blinded
i both agree and disagree with that. Security lighting shouldnt be placed same as you would floodlighting.
Hi power floodlights aimed outwards from the door would also blind anyone looking inwards while giving crew/owners privacy from been seen.
Flood light and an audible alarm so you can wake up everyone around.
You're safe, the children are safe, the boat is safe, and the suspects have been caught. That's a very good ending.
Years ago I had always thought that dad was a bit over the top, as he had a pair of diesel truck horns hooked up to an auxiliary battery, with actuator buttons in six or seven locations. One of the horns was attached halfway up the mizzen mast. The were LOUD and sound carried for more than a mile when they were set off.
Now, after you're encounter, I see the practicality of that set up.
Please stay safe and thank you for sharing.
Whatever defence instruments you decide to get (doesn't necessarily have to be a gun), never tell or show anyone, including your viewers. The element of surprise could mean life or death in such situations. Stay safe.
Amen
Great advice.
Tack strips are genius!
@@chad1755 true except for they have 2 young children onboard. A fire extinguisher is the best I've read on here. Every boat needs one & once they get hit by that they will jump off the boat & drop any weapons they might have had. Ultimately just glad no one was harmed & the scum was caught
Lol the lack of a wardrobe I’m sure had some effect in totally surprising them like wtffff
First of all, so glad you are safe and sound. One thing that I'm sure you have on board is a fire extinguisher, dry or CO2, will knock the person back, and it is perfectly legal and useful both when it is full or empty - if the discharge doesn't do enough. Check the distance that your extinguisher projects out and the broadcast area of it. Blessings, and take care!
If you havnt been in that situation, you can never know what youd have done. Things happen so quickly and its all reaction without really thinking. So glad you guys are safe and nothing was taken.
So happy you weren’t hurt and nothing was taken.has to be scary!! Glad the video helped catch them!! Delos did the same
using video they took.well done.it’s sad you had to experience this side of cruising
Fair winds ⛵️
Good floodlights on the spreaders to light up the deck and surrounding area quickly at the flick of a switch helps. Thieves don't like being exposed and really don't like being photographed. BUT can turn violent. Boats legitimately can carry good antiboarding weapons. Think boat-hook with a sharp end. Belaying pins were a old standby but a good selection of thumping implements hidden around can help....yeah my kid is REALLY into cricket of baseball etc officer! Just part of the adventure and adds to the stories to be told years down the track. Just seeing Ben running out the door bare arsed would have scared anyone but the really desperate thief overboard .....ha ha! The alarm is a great idea! Cheers and G'day from Tasmania
I just agree. I have high LED solar lights that light up to motion detection and they are great… scared my hubby a couple of times when I showed up unexpectedly after work and he said those are great theft deterrents…
Motion activated lights work great…
G’day from Queensland - a red cattle dog helps too 😁 all that sudden cranky dog and snarling and barking frightens the bejesus out of surprise visitors - bloody shame that dogs for international sailing is just too much humbug
@@KeepItSimpleSailor would love to have a dog aboard but now is not the right time…
Yeah an alarm audible outside of the boat would help as well. A lit up boats with alarms going off with bring a lot of attention and the burglars will want to leave. Just lights doesn't get as much attention.
I live in the seychelles and I got my little boat stolen, got it back the same day but no footage unfortunately. These guys need to be dealt with, so good you got them on film but so sad this is what happens here and what a bad reputation it gives us. Glad you are safe and hope the rest of your stay is uphill from here. Great trade winds for sailing at the moment!
You actually did one of the best things to do when confronting someone like this: Naked and yelling like a mad man/woman... scares the crap out of them because they think you're possessed.
That is an awful experience. Thankful you all are safe. I am sure the other 4 boats would like to know thieves are lurking near by looking to steal from any of the boats at anchor. We had a situation happen to us at anchor. We turned every light on spot lighted the thieves got on our P.A. system sounded the alarm and called out the theives as they tried to get away. Other boats near by called the authorities and the criminals had a reception at the beach when they got to shore. Never be embarassed or apologetic for defending your family or your home.
Boaters appreciate the warning and they should work together to keep their community safe. Glad you are o-k.
From my experience having been in combat three times, my advice is to work out a course of action that you're comfortable with, practice it a few times. Then if you get boarded again, you will not have to take any time-consuming decisions, you will immediately act. Also, always assume you will be boarded. That way, you'll have the batteries either fresh or charged. Good luck!
YES! They need a rehearsed game plan moving forward, especially with small children on board!
Prep is key
@ Douglas Daniel, I agree, you need to have a plan of what exactly your actions are going to be. That should be basically muscle memory, no second guessing, no thinking, just action, at least the beginning.
@@lutomson3496 I wouldn't be so harsh, a camera system won't stop half-wit criminals from doing the unthinkable. I think having a couple higher end kitchen knives, and a couple high end powerful flashlights (100-300usd range).
And the muscle memory you took away from practicing. I think that's a productive plan!
I have found that in extreme conditions, that a simple flare gun will do the job, either by intimidation, or 1200F flare in their boat that can't be put out by water.
We carry Wasp Spray with us, it shoots quite a distance and it's legal to own in pretty much every country. We don't have to declare it as we move about.
Same thing happened to SV Delos. They cut one of the lines on their dingy which made a loud snap and everyone woke up.
The first video I ever watched of you guys’ was the one about how you defend against pirates. I’ve been hooked ever since. I am so sorry you had to go through this, I can’t imagine how scary it was, especially with the two little ones on board. I’m so glad you guys have been prepared for this to happen for so long, and I’m even happier everyone is safe and nothing was stolen or damaged.
Appreciate the calm and rationale response and manner in which you handled this
Thanks for the tip on the alarm, will look at getting some for my boat
Glad you are all safe
Kind regards
Good thing they were only petty thieves and not kidnappers/extortionists or pirates. You really need a viable defense, especially with loved ones on board. Glad everything turned out okay.
I think you reacted just as I would have in the same situation. Like you guys said, "This is the first time we've been boarded." I am so happy it turned out the way it did and you and the babies are safe. I would try to have a way to wake up the neighbors. Maybe a few buddy boats leave their radios on a specific channel with the volume up thru the night. Have you had any luck with getting the bulkheads fixed so you can get out of there safely? I personally wouldn't be able to sleep after that. Stay SAFE guys!
Have a whistle on your neck and blow it to scare them and wake up the other boats! I used to work at night and this was my defence. Making noise works‼
I produce advertising photo shoots and commercials ...
.. when we travel to foreign countries, everyone gets a “crew packet” and on the first page at the very top I put in large bold type the emergency numbers for that country.
One day in St. Barths right in front of us there was a vehicle accident which went up onto the sidewalk striking pedestrians ... the entire crew looked at each other and said “DIAL 17” ... and everyone called for an ambulance.
In the past lots of the regular crew members would joke about the emergency numbers. We would be eating lunch and someone would sneeze and one of the guys would shout out the emergency number ... which is pretty funny.
The day of that accident I was actually really proud that all the crew members remembered the correct emergency number.
When you’re in a foreign country and suddenly something happens, not knowing the correct emergency number makes you feel incredibly vulnerable.
STRONG WORDS HERE....I hate burglars and theives! I was a law enforcement officer for close to 30 years.... I've had to do the unthinkable. Those two obviously not the welcome wagon....I would want justice and someone to answer for their crimes....BUT...other than your children and each of you... there's nothing on board worth get hurt or killed over...all that stuff can be replaced. Prayers...stay safe
Was the unthinkable you withdrawing all charges before the judge could see that you had planted evidence?
@@victorbitter583 lame.
@@victorbitter583 obviously a police hater who wants an argument. You know what they say about stupid people...
@@cbc229 Yep, dudes last name is pretty descriptive it appears. My guess is ole Vic got caught breaking the law at some point and blames law enforcement versus looking in the mirror 😂
@@victorbitter583 looks like the woke nut-job has arrived to spew hate and bitterness just like all ‘progressives’ do.
That was really scary. So glad you’re all fine. ❤️
A few rows of tack strips on the swim steps will do wonders!
First, congrats on being extremely more assertive than most people, even the ones you were anchoring next to! Very happy it ended well.
I would also get a bunch of those motion detection led lights to flood the deck and foredeck when movement is present (also could help with coming back at night)
"I wouldn't shoot someone in this country."
I'm an extremely good competitive shooter. I'm as pro-gun as it is possible to be. And there's no way in I'd try to sneak a gun into a foreign country. That's a ticket to a long stay in the local Iron Bar Motel if you're lucky. I think it's a terrible infringement on your natural right of self defense, but that's not an argument that keeps you from being everyone's favorite punching bag (or worse) in a third world prison.
I keep guns no matter what the law says. But I am wise in hiding them. It is easy on a boat. The only time I would ever use it would be to protect life. Many people in this world are becoming lawless. They are now stuck in Africa on a broken boat. They would be fools to sail south to South Africa as the seas there might rip that boat in pieces. So they either need to fix it there or sail north to Saudi Arabia or Egypt where it will be the cheapest to fix that boat. The horn of Africa is a horrible place. Children are sold into slavery. White children are worth a lot more. There is no way on earth I would stand by and let my children be taken. If intruders have guns you are SOL without one yourself. But if you are skilled, you have an excellent chance at taking them all out.
*_ Besides its LAW that you have to HAND the firearm to the local authority when you check in _*
@@liongod1000 Depends on the country, right? Bahamas allows you to keep your guns aboard.
Add motion light, motion action cameras. Connect alarm to boat horn. (Similar to truck horns but stronger). Will awake most people around anchorage. And scare any thief. SSL captain rick have a great setup for surveillance system and light.
A powerful handheld strobe light is very effective as it not only blinds a potential assailant but can actually make them dizzy and sick. I have one that functions not only as a strobe but an extremely powerful spotlight
Yes. First thing before leaving the Cabin is to turn on your steaming and decklights. If all dark and they have lights they might blind you before you can. Headlamp with high lumen is great since everybody you actually look at gets blinded. Before leaving cabin make sure it is on high light output.
You guys are the BOMB!!!! Above all else, so Glad you and the kidletts are safe. ⛵🤗
I would either always keep a light on inside to show that someone might still be awake. You could also put up motion detector lights around the boat that will light up whenever somebody comes up to the boat. My thought is you don’t want to be the easiest target, so I’m thinking a light of some sort will help with that.
I have an industrial alarm that I can turn on and wake anybody around. I also have a couple of really really bright spotlights so that I could light up someone trying to make an escape while others come out to see what the noise is.
Glad you and the kids are safe #1! What about some self defense items like a baseball ball or bear spray canisters? I also second the ideas said by others on motion activated lighting as well.
What about putting the spear gun in a shadow display box that could mount to the walls ? Maybe that way it’s decorative and maybe certain countries authorities wouldn’t consider it a weapon?
First off I’d like to say we have been avid viewers of your channel since day 1 of your adventure. You’ve come a long way in a short amount of time & the memories you’ve created are priceless.
In terms of protecting your family we view that as number 1.
Much like you equip your vessel with the necessary electronics, PFD’s Dingy etc. to keep your family as safe as possible on your journey. I view protection of your family as the same. In fact I view It as paramount. We have also have young children & wherever we journey to we always make sure we have the means to protect ourselves.
Here are our thoughts on what you can do for personal protection. A Flare Gun which I’m sure you have on board is a very effective means of protection. If that’s not your cup of tea might I recommend a High Powered Co2 Paint Ball Gun. Keep your paintballs frozen in a mini freezer in your cabin. FROZEN PAINTBALLS WILL INFLICT MAJOR INJURY TO THE PERPETRATOR. These paintball guns have the ability of firing automatic with hundreds of rounds per second. If you were to fire a high powered paint ball gun into someone’s face for protection I can assure you that would immediately stop them in their tracks. First thing It would immediately Blind them from the paint. They would not be able to see anything. Secondly their face will be cut up badly & bleeding 🩸 & Swollen & they would require stitches to sew 🪡 their face back together. Another source of protection is your Spear Gun (Highly Effective)
I wouldn’t trust a Taser when it comes to protecting my wife & children. You don’t want to have any physical contact with perpetrators.
At any rate, hope you guys find some of this information we shared as useful. Unfortunately we live in a not so safe world & it’s up to us as individuals to protect ourselves. It is our right to do so. Looking forward to what you find out on your vessel. Stay safe & safe travels guys! Aloha 🌊🤙🏽
Glad all went well in the end. A flare would be great to access quickly and a switch to light up the boat with led flood lights.
We were boarded in the inner harbor of Grenada West Indies. The only time in over 35 countries and 25 yrs of cruising. It was a sneak thief. Went through the boat stern to stem, in the companionway and out the fore-hatch. 4 of us on boarded and the only way that we knew that anything happened was that they let the fore hatch slam. We didn’t know that we were robbed until morning when we found wallets missing, expensive sun glasses etc. The next night they went aboard a German boat and the owner jumped him. Had a fight that he won (after getting his ear badly bit). And turned him in to the Police. I think that having an agreed upon quiet VHF channel to monitor at night is a good idea. We also carried bear spray and CS spray and had several cans hidden so that one was always in arms reach. Never had to use it. But good to have. I have very mixed feelings about guns. Many countries just take them away while in port soooo??? And yes, in a foreign country, you don’t want to shoot someone unless you or a crew/family are about to die.
As a gun packing midwesterner, I'd be the first to agree that a gun is NOT the proper solution for your situation. You are sailing into mostly known ports in countries that are certainly not gun friendly. Not to mention, no one should have a gun they are not willing to use. Honestly, I think your reaction was perfect. Criminals don't want noise or light and since your light didn't work, noise was a good runner up. I keep an air horn and spotlight close by when I'm camping. It might be a good time to upgrade your lighting. They make some wonderfuly powerful self defense lights now.
I'm very glad you are safe! I was the victum of a home invasion many years ago and it was pretty traumatic. (they kicked our door in at 1:00 AM) And I love it that you're alarm went off and they got caught!
I am so glad you guys are OK and nothing was taken. That must have been a frightful experience, especially with the kids on board. I saw some good ideas on this post for stepping up your security. Bright flood lights that come on when your alarm goes off and a hunting camera and warning sign seem like a good idea. A metal pipe to hit someone over the head while they try to board may be an alternative to a gun as guns are illegal most places, how about a small cross bow? Do you have a really loud horn? It's a sad reality that in addition to having to deal with the normal perils of the sea, you have to worry about being boarded. Stay safe guys. ❤️
Hello. Glad that nothing bad happened to you guys!! A suggestion: Installing lamp lights that sensor motion, movement, would be very helpful too. Also, a flashlight with strobe light helps to distract and affect the not wanted invaders. Yes, having some kind of pepper spray, or defense weapon is needed because if you don't have it they will know, and will take advantage obviously.Its a family that needs protection so even a dog is a good idea ;)
What gets me is you guys are so nice and generous that anyone thats that desperate you guys will take your shirt off your back to help anyone in need!! I agree with no guns but what I would have is a really strong staff an get trained correctly with it! Much love from the coast of Maine,USA❤
BTW don't have a new wooden part made!! Just use tightbond wood glue an trust me it will be better then original!! Stuff is amazing, just clamp an squeeze out most of the glue until dry💯
There are a few dead people who would disagree with your no gun, stance. There is an old saying, "don't take a knife to a gun fight", your staff will get you killed, too many brainless people these days.
Portable capstun. They may get away, but they're going to have oleoresin stains on whatever clothing/skin touched by your spray as well as alot of pain in their eyes from the irritant, making it easier for authorities to detect suspects later. As far as a hand-held "war club" is concerned, an expandable baton (ASP is a well known brand name) would be my choice over a war club. It has the added psychological benefit of making a very distinctive sound when being deployed, especially if you see them and they haven't detected you. Deploy the baton in the dark, then hit your deck lights, spotlight, etc. The panic. confusion, and disorientation are a strong defensive deterrent...
Hello Ben and Ashley, Thought provoking video. I know as Parents of young people, you need to start each day well rested and able to teach, nourish and support them. In order to do that, you need to have a plan that is both legal and effective so you can sleep when in a port. At first I thought of leg hold traps on deck but dismissed that as too messy if a criminal steps in one and too dangerouse if you go on deck groggy and step in one yourself. Guns of any kind is a hard no. Fire extinguishers are an easy yes as is alarm systems like you already have and motion activated lights but the best plan would be to lock your dingy when at anchor and bring all toys inboard so thieves don't see them as easy targets in the first place. I have a 33' ex Forestry patrol boat and just inside the companion way hatch is a 3' long Lignum Vitae mini bat. (It is the densest and hardest wood known) and mine has a lanyard at the end so it can be swung. Rest assured that if you swing it, what ever you hit will break! Anyway , let me know if there's anything I can do. Cheers to you and your little ones from Nanaimo.
So glad you were all safe,great alarm system and theft deterant.Unsettling no doubt, but so well handled guys.Ross
Setup some seawater hoses to a pump that can be switched on from inside, You mention they do not like being wet but it also makes it difficult to board when everything slippery. Outside of that I'd secure things with a wire to make it harder for them to grab stuff and run. Sure they might have bolt cutters but it will slow them down and make noise. The last thing is some really bright lights and Audible alarm; It will wake other boats in the vicinity and the sudden high pitched noise/light will have them second guessing. I wouldn't advise ever going to confront or chase them down especially in countries where the law is unlikely to take a foreigners side. Non firearm weapons should only be used if they try to enter the cabin, outside of that id stay clear. Remember, they still have to make it back to shore where, hopefully, the authorities can pick them up. If not well that sucks but at least your not seriously injured in a foreign country whilst trying to weigh anchor/organise transport to shore. You are two + kids, I don't think there is any use in heroics.
Weird
@@PepeDeezNutz How so?
@@Sneddz1 still weird
love watching your adventurous life unfold, thanks for bringing us along. much love from your homeland!
The lesson is, upgrade your alarm system to give full coverage, connect it to floodlights and audible alarms. Do that and most would be thief's will stay away. Add in motion detection cameras too if you are paranoid enough. But doing that is and more are what bigger yacht's do and such systems are usually added during the build too to yachts. But clearly a type of audible alarm with full coverage is a good idea in today's age and time. The alarms should be loud too, so that it wakes up everyone, think fire alarm. But that might be rather rude to the other ships around you, so maybe something in between a screaming alarm and something you might not wake up from would be best.
I really like the removal solution you have, just remember to always put it up when being close to a city or others or add a more permanent solution with full cover that can be shutdown when not needed.
It happened to me, I broadcast on CH 16 informing everyone of Thieves around, also turned on the on deck hose to wet them, and almost let of the fire extinguisher ..Also a pot of boiling water thrown at them..
they soon got the message.
Glad you guys are okay. Scary to have your sanctuary compromised. You will be better prepared in the future, I'm sure.
Yes, always yell stearn/loud not panicked commands and use bright light for starters...
The alarm is the best defence! So glad it worked and nothing was lost. Scary stuff though!
I'm glad it all worked out. The alarm worked like a charm. I've always felt that I would want to have high powered lamps ready to go to blind them.
Glad you’ve got away with just a fright there & are safe.
Rightly so, a firearm or other weapon is only worth having if you are both well trained and prepared to use it.
More lights triggered by the motion sensors is one option. Along with an outside alarm for them. They won’t like attention - bright lights and noise cause that.
Along with looking at security cameras. Both for evidence and to safely assess the situation on deck without being visible.
We are working on a plan to add strobe lights and a loud siren on deck.
Check out SailingBrickhouse. Patrick (RIP) has done a few tubes on security. I found them informative and full of ideas.
Been waiting for this all morning! Keep up the great work and awesome content guys! By far the best channel on the tube!
I agree with you regarding guns onboard. Restrictions in various countries makes it pretty difficult. I think the simplest is light and sound as a good defense. Your hi-beam flashlight and perhaps an air horn would be good deterrents and alert everyone else that thieves are in the water. I also like the floodlight and flare suggestions. Stay safe!
SMH.
yIKES. BEN, HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING OUT? Glad you are safe
The only other possible deterrent i havent seen mentioned is a blinking red light like you see blinking in cars to show they have a security system or suggest a camera is recording.
Glad you all are safe!
*I would also like to point out that getting their faces on camera, like you did, is the key. SV Delos chased a swimming thief around in their dinghy for hours and they still got away. You also open yourself up to injury chasing them down. You did it right
As Dave stated you should have some 12V LED flood lights around the boat that go on when the alarm is activated. I agree that a firearm is not the answer, but a spear gun could be of help if needed.
Buy a spare oar for the dinghy, a nice stout wooden one that you can swing and jab with some authority and keep it handy within easy reach.
Am in Texas & never carry, in my 4 years at sea would always just yell & attack & the thieves always ran. Think many thieves expect a scared tourist & are shocked when a real man stands up to them. A small baseball bat might help dissuade a more aggressive thief.
As you said many times, having a gun is difficult for legal reasons - but there are many similar weapons that are permitted, any form of harpoon gun or even just a long-distance melee weapon like a (fishing) spear. And then the classic deescalation things: Don't stand inbetween them and their way out, give them time/opportunity to escape, don't dash into close quarters with them.
Even if they are armed with i.e. a machete, nobody who sees a man with a spear standing 5m away from them will decide to charge into that.
If they do have a firearm, best lock yourself in whatever secure area there is on the boat. Stand at a safe angle inside this place where you cannot be hit by a person shooting through a door or a window. If you don't have cover, use concealment (i.e. use pillows etc to block out vision from windows or similar. They don't stop bullets but it's very unlikely an attacker will hit you if they can't see you if you stand at a safe angle).
And of course call authorities as soon as you locked the door and quickly bring the kids to safety. Your first priority must be to protect your group from the threat overall, so you can't spend time babysitting he kids at the same time. Find them a safe spot and tell them not to move (kids are small so it's pretty easy), then you have your hands free to i.e. conceal windows, call authorities, etc
Wow! Glad you guys are okay. When watching other cruising videos when the topic of guns and self-protection was brought up, I always thought I could never sail without at least a couple pistols and a couple AR-15s.
Then you'd either be in a 3rd world jail by now or you'd have VERY limited places to sail to lol.
DON'T have a gun, if you are not prepared to use it, it could become a weapon against you! Ben, you are a great protector. You kicked instantly in to protect! Much love and respect. Maybe a good set of LED spots? Flare gun? Illuminate the sky? Just thoughts. May the Gods continue to protect you and your family. Jay
So glad that you are safe. Did you ever consider getting a dog? It may have alerted you earlier to their presence and a dog’s barking would most likely deter thieves from boarding. Get a baseball bat and put a sock over the end. If you use it and they try to grab it they will get a handful of sock and you will have an opportunity to get them. Best of luck.
Or a parrot that talks.
Hmm, never heard of the sock trick before. Clever!
Amazed by your matter-of-fact attitude. So calm...I'd be shittimg my pants and leaving the area immediately.
I would have a can of wasp spray just in case… shoots 24 feet and a wasp has to go to the hospital to get it out of its eyes..
You were right about having a really bright light, the brighter the better
A flange gun is especially legal on a boat. Works wonders just pointing it at someone. Next fire it next to them the first round.
When we were in the Seychelles, plenty of people got boarded while at anchor, even during plain daylight. They broke into our yacht in the evening while in port on Praslin Marina, and stole all cash. Plenty of people got their outboard or dinghy stolen from the beaches.
Get a blunt end 8 foot pole that you can poke them with, and a simple paint gun filled with paint balls. The simple semi automatic paint ball gun hurts like hell but does not kill. It will also mark them with paint which is identifiable. The striking end of the pole should be smooth and slippery
Ok, I understand that having a gun on board has its negatives. But you have flare guns and standard flares. A large knife would be what I carried. A mace is also a good tool.
Solar powered, motion sensor flood lights are also worth evey penny.
There are guns that shoot defensive pepper pellets at distances of up to 60 feet.. The pellets come in a magazine that holds 5 - 6 pellets. The gun is powered by co2 cartridges. It looks like a regular gun to scare the intruder but doesn't need to be licenced. I think its called Byrna. Just a suggestion.
A long Hawaiian sling would be great self defense. Can be ready in two seconds and can be used over and over quickly. A speargun does not like to sit loaded and is really hard to quickly reload. A Hawaiian sling can be used to just poke or actually shoot. The three long prong ones are great since they do not get caught in hectic defense due to no barbs on them. One with barbs or hooks can actually get caught in attackers clothing and you might that way supply the attacker with your sling if attacker moves fast to rip it out of your hands. Ideally you like the sling return to you after shooting it. So hold on to the tubing. You longer your sling the farther is your reach.
I agree in having no gun. The alarm is great. We also have some strong Laser Pointer. These chinese Pointers with LiIon Battery are brutal.
There are really strong flashlights and Laserpointer.
You have to be careful using them but having visitors at night...
Be confident and loud if they just want your stuff that will cause them to stop and decide if they want a confrontation. You can always back up and shut the door. But a good club is handy also!
as a Seychellois im really sorry, just disappointing, lets hope all goes better,
We're Canadian. We are travelling in our Roadtrek camper van in Canada and heading down to Mexico. My husband has a hockey stick and a baseball bat with which he will look very threatening. We have cellphones to call police. I might go to Home Depot and pick up an alarm though:) Thanks for another wonderful video. I love them:)
Glad you guys are okay..
I think they were after, whatever they could get!
You should have a crossbow and a siren onboard. Guns are problematatic while travelling, but a crossbow could have the same effect when in real danger, but isn't as restricted, as a gun... Also a siren is in my opportunity very effective against thieves. They are very offensive, because they know, that before anyone realises, that they are thieves, they escape. I don't have a boat, althought it's my biggest dream, but I have some houses, condos and flats, which I hope will help me to get a boat sometime. But my experience with thievs is following: You have to shock them more, than they schock you, because they flee in that case, or if they don't flee, you,definitely have to have some backup - that's the crossbow for example...
Get a siren and a sound machine to deafen them
Sitting in KwaZulu RSA and I am most concerned for your trip down the east coast. I follow a few choice channels including Colin on Parlay Revival. Did you mention that you are in direct contact by e mail ??? Sailing Florence had an incredibly calm (lucky ?) sail down and around after some repairs in Seychelles. I am looking forward to you being well looked after where you are and by the Lagoon company. Peace, Love and Blessings...
I'd put olive oil on the steps so when they board they'd have trouble getting on and most probably slide back in haha. Glad you guys are ok and safe
Sorry to see you're having a rough time of it there. Seychelles was a bucket list item for us. But, we've been doing our research on such things: The Seychelles is twice as crime prone as the Philippines. And the Philippines is twice as crime prone as Mauritius. So recently Mauritius has been rising in our view. Every place has its problems though. Mauritius is twice as crime prone as Saudi Arabia, for example... and none of these places (or any other place) is worry free.
That was scary especially with 2 kids on board. Things have gotta turn around for you soon!
A friend of mine used to keep his boat at anchor ( he was not live aboard). He posted a sign "Property of Russia" with a hammer and sickle on it (he was ex Spaznez) strangely, he NEVER had a problem at all.
Get it fixed. The memory of you breaking it will never be forgotten!!
Your alarm needs to be loud enough to wake neighboring boats, or a separate very loud siren you can turn on so your neighbors can know you need help. You need to have spotlights in the mast you can flood the area around your boat at night so you are not wasting time with flashlights that may or not be working.
The people saying " you need a gun on board!" likely live in the US, are armchair travelers and have no clue that the rest of the world has gun control laws, some of them downright draconian even by Canadian standards. But a good reminder for yourselves to be a bit more prepared for security. Thanks for sharing and stay safe.
Yeah, I chuckle at all the gun comments. They make it easy to pick out the Americans who have probably never even left their state lol.
Some home made pepper spray in a spray bottle would at least be something of a deterent at close quarters , some game cameras mounted on the boat covering access points would be handy for after the fact identification to local authorities.
Sensor lights mounted to the boat to light up the water around the boat if anyone gets close would be handy also
As you noted, confronting the thieves could have been a bad idea, but you got away with it. From a defensive point of view, having a firearm on the boat is more dangerous to you than an intruder if you're not willing to use it. Add to that, many of the countries that you already have visited and have yet to visit will frown on your possession of a firearm within their borders, to say the least. A firearm probably isn't going to help you. Instead, you'll want to concentrate on being unattractive to a thief/intruder. You guys already know how to do that, anchor farther out, lights that your batteries can support, etc. Your use of the motion sensor was genius. Fair winds
Being Canadian I believe that you put yourself in greater danger by brandishing a gun. Charles Cook's comments are right on imho.
💖🇨🇦 I think you need a break. I know there are tough times coming up. I hope you find a way to get through it. And of course you will because that's what families do 👪
Shadow box all the way!!! With that caption..."I'm an idiot." It was so good! 🤣🤣
Hey Ben n Ashley,
I agree with you, carrying a gun(s) is "never" a great thing, as they can cause more damage, they are worth. Here I am referring to the authorities being over dramatic to "foreigners" carrying weapons. As you saw with your "now" broken speargun. So yes, carrying a gun can cause so much unnecessary damage. But on the other hand, I did carry a "sling shot", as I have mentioned before, when you guys were being hounded by the fishermen a few weeks back. Now hear me out, a sling shot, with marbles as your choice of ammo, is easily concealed and so handy to use. Like you folks, we raised our 2 young kids on board, for many many years and the sling shot, was used a few times, mostly to ward off possible unwanted visitors. My wife, being only 4'10", was a tiny thing and she became such a deadly shot. Yep, there is NOTHING like a mother protecting her offspring, you just have to stay clear. Well using "marbles", as I am sure you know what they are, can shatter, if you are shooting at a fishing (or other type) boats, who "are not" heeding your warning to move away. As time went on and the kids (girl n boy) grew, we had them practice with the sling shot. We all became very very accurate with this item. The only time the item was viewed by customs was in Mozambique and thankfully, they had NO IDEA what is was or how to use it, so they did not hold the item until we departed. So keeping your doorbell alarm going, is a great thing and I too applaud that idea. Then grab the sling shot, just in case and you can just put it into the back of your shorts, if there is no need to send marbles out into the night. We did also use the sling shot, to ward off, of all things, Orca's. Yes they can be a pain and attack your rudders, as this is their way of slowing and trying to hunt, as it DOES HAPPEN. It would not kill Orca's, but the sting from the marbles was more than enough to let them know, BACK OFF. Ok, stay safe and hope all goes well for the next part of your journey.
There are very super bright flashlights that can temporarily disorient those in the beam. Good non-lethal defensive weapon.
That adrenaline dump! Lol it's exhausting. Good job. I'm sure you learned some good stuff and this will shape your future habits. Good job you two :)
Inexpensive strain gauge epoxied onto the underside of areas you must step on to access the boat. Hooked into a alarm and lights. No bird caused false alarms. Worth considering,
Live electrical wires fencing can work wonders on a thief's motivation, and if the voltage is high enough, the zap is loud enough to wake you up too. If it doesn't, the hollering and cursing that follows the zap will definitely wake up everyone.
I do promote arming my vessel. That being said you don't have to have a lethal weapon. Some bear spray and a tazer or shotgun with non lethal rounds are a suggestion. That being said having harbor patrol on speed dial for sure. And plenty of lumens do wonders. Remember some criminals are armed so training with any weapons you may chose is highly recommend.