Sailing Journey with Kittywake

Mar 15, 2025

Sailing Adventure with Kittywake

Introduction

  • Theme: Exploring the freedom and lifestyle of sailing.
  • Narrator's Background: Grew up in Northern Italy, fond of the sea despite being from the mountains.
  • Activities Tried: Surfing, paddleboarding, scuba diving, kayaking.

Lifestyle Change

  • Goal: Desire to live differently, away from office jobs.
  • Plan: Sail cruising on a budget.

Budget and Lifestyle

  • Boat Purchase: Bought a small sailboat for around £10,000.
  • Monthly Budget: £500 total, £250 each.
  • Financing: Freelance work on laptops.

Sailing Journey

  • Route: Sailing from the UK to the Mediterranean, aiming for Malta.
  • Winter Plan: Stay on the Ria Guadiana (Spain-Portugal border).

Boat Details - Kittywake

  • Type: 1977, 26-foot catamaran, named Kittywake.
  • Features:
    • Rugged construction.
    • Small, manageable rigging.
    • Safe cockpit.

Boat Tour

Deck

  • Back Deck: Used for fishing and storing the dinghy named Mar.
  • Solar Panels: Six panels providing 540 watts, sufficient for electricity needs.

Interior

  • Back Cabin: Sleeping area and dining table.
  • Helm: Central control for sailing.
  • Engine: 9.9 horsepower Yamaha outboard, easily serviceable.

Front Deck

  • Uses: Relaxation and managing sails/anchors.
  • Anchor: 22 kg Manson Supreme.

Storage

  • Front: Fishing gear, climbing gear, spare sails.
  • Saloon: Seating with storage, navigation station.

Living Amenities

  • Composting Toilet: Eco-friendly design.
  • Galley:
    • Fresh and saltwater sinks with foot pumps.
    • Gas stove, limited use to save gas.
    • Storage for kitchenware and provisions.

Navigation and Safety

  • Navigation Station: Electronics, solar controllers, navigational tools.
  • Safety Equipment: Life jackets, emergency supplies.

Additional Features

  • Sleeping Quarters:
    • Double berth, ample storage.
    • Mini wardrobe for clothes.
  • Miscellaneous:
    • "Dos Amigos" plants.
    • Hot water bottles for warmth.

Closing

  • Next Steps: Begin sailing journey.
  • Contact Information: Blog available at sailingkittywake.com for more updates.

Music and Atmosphere

  • Background Music: Sets an adventurous and relaxed mood.
  • Themes: Freedom, exploration, and new beginnings.

Conclusion

  • Invitation: Subscribe for updates on the sailing journey and adventures with Kittywake.