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Setting off on a long-distance sailing journey is a dream for many. For Eric and Bianca, it became a reality. After months of preparation, they cast off and embarked on their greatest adventure yet. We had a chat with them about the journey, the challenges, and staying safe at sea.
The couple met five years ago and soon began talking about their life goals. Eric had long dreamed of living on a sailboat and sailing around the world, while Bianca – who grew up near the sea but had no sailing experience – initially laughed at the idea.
What made you decide to go on a long-distance sailing journey?
– After a few years of stressful workdays in central Stockholm, we longed for a simpler and freer life, closer to nature and our passions. We started talking seriously about completely changing our lives, Eric and Bianca explain.
“We wanted to live close to the sea, away from the stress of city life, and we began to realize that this was something we could actually do.” – Bianca
In the spring of 2023, they bought their first sailboat. After a summer of renovations and coastal sailing, they knew this was the life they wanted. In the summer of 2024, they set sail from Nynäshamn with the Mediterranean in sight.
How did it feel to leave land for the first time?
– It felt completely unreal. We were nervous, excited, and full of anticipation. Just the two of us onboard our floating home, heading out on the greatest adventure of our lives – a dream come true, says Bianca.
Safety onboard
Safety is the number one priority at sea. Eric and Bianca always check weather forecasts, avoid unnecessary risks, and carefully plan each leg of their journey.
When you sailed through the north sea and the English Channel, what was the most important to consider?
– Tides and currents were a big deal. We had to time our arrivals and departures from harbors carefully and be aware of other hazards. Along the northern coast of Spain and Portugal, we closely followed reports of orca attacks on sailboats and took all the recommended precautions, they explain.
What´s your view on life jackets during a long sailing trip?
– It’s super important to have life jackets that are comfortable and don’t restrict movement. We have a rule to always wear a safety harness on deck, especially when sailing alone or at night.
“The right equipment allows us to stay calm in tough situations.” – Eric
Have you ever been in a situation where safety equipment was crucial?
– We’ve never been in immediate danger, but knowing we have the right equipment allows us to stay calm in difficult situations. In that sense, it has been crucial for us, say Eric and Bianca.
PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY
Setting off on a long voyage requires thorough preparation. The boat needs to be properly equipped, sailing and navigation skills must be in place, and the right mindset is essential. For Eric and Bianca, it took just a year from buying the boat to departure – despite having no prior sailing experience.
What were the biggest challenges before setting sail?
– There was so much to fix on the boat and so much to learn. At times, it felt overwhelming, and we questioned whether we could really do it. The preparation process was mentally tough, they admit.
What do you pack for a long sailing journey?
– Since we had already been living on the boat for a year before setting off, we had most of what we needed onboard. But the most important things are safety equipment, first aid supplies, clothes and shoes for all weather conditions, a waterproof sailing suit, extra food, water, and diesel, say Bianca and Eric.
Life at sea
Days at sea are a mix of peaceful sunset sailing and intense hours battling rough waters.
What has been the biggest challenge of life at sea?
– Creating routines when every day looks different. It can also be tough missing the comforts of land. The highs and lows are extreme – when things get tough, they are really tough, but when everything falls into place, there’s nothing better. The advantages of this free, nature-connected lifestyle always outweigh the downsides, they say.
THEIR BEST ADVICE
For Eric and Bianca, long-distance sailing has been more than just a journey across the sea – it has been a journey of personal growth. Through challenges and unexpected situations, they have learned patience, resilience, and the importance of trusting both themselves and each other.
What´s your best advice for someone dreaming of a long sailing journey?
– You never feel 100% ready to set sail. You just have to take the leap. Be open to learning along the way and remember that you can’t prepare for everything, say Eric and Bianca.
Want to follow Eric and Bianca’s journey? You can find them on Instagram here and here, and on Youtube here.
