If you are wondering why we appear to be going nowhere, why we still seem to be in Southampton and why we have been rather quiet then read on.
Last week we received the dreadful news that Valent’s deck is disintegrating, or in technical terms has delaminated. It would appear that water has been building up in the wooden core and gradually the layers of ply have separated. The new deck is no longer bonded to the core below, and the core is loose bits of wood (at best) or a soggy mess at worst. Some of the serious load bearing deck fittings are no longer correctly secured, and if subjected to stress would be liable to pull out of the deck and cause much worse issues at sea.
Whilst culpability will be a question for another day, Valent is now stuck in a boatyard awaiting a slot to be returned into a shed for urgent repairs. The repairs will take 2-3 months. We estimate that we will now not be ready to sail until Easter 2023 and will therefore miss the ARC Atlantic crossing this year and the start of the World ARC in January 2023. During the repairs we cannot live on the boat (and even if we could, we wouldn’t want to live on the boat in the UK in winter). That leaves us marooned in the UK with no boat and our house let out. We will work out a solution, but current thinking is to find somewhere to live around the South Coast for 6 months. This will allow us to be close to Valent and to help progress the works as quickly as possible.
Once back on the water, we hope to be able to salvage something from our planned trip; but, given our requirement to be back by Aug/Sep 2024 we can no longer sail round the world. We can only get halfway round. Maybe we go to Australia and figure it out from there. Maybe we just do the Caribbean. Maybe we create our own route. Whatever it is, we are trying to stay positive, and focussed on getting Valent fixed and ready to go.
Oh no this is horrible news. Been following your journey – hopefully once fixed you can still get some epic places in.
Just found a moment to catch up and read your disappointing news – I hope you are formulating plan b or C. Keep the faith. I hope you have found somewhere to live Let me know if you need help with anything!!?
I am so sorry to hear this. So truly awful after all the planning that went into your trip. I am sure though that you will have an amazing adventure in the end, just a little delayed.
Ohh so sorry to read this! Cheer up people! and keep being positive family! Everything happen for a reason, a good one so I hope Valent get well soon in order you do what you all have dreamed.
If we can help you in anyway don’t hesitate to let us know x
Hi guys,
What terrible news for you! However, so much better to find out now and not in the middle of the ocean on a wet and windy night!
On our journey so far, we have learned that the sailing life is full of challenges and plans change all of the time. You will still manage to visit amazing places and meet wonderful people. We would definitely recommend the Caribbean, especially Grenada!
Thinking of you all
Xx
Will, Suzy and girls, I am, like everyone, SO SORRY to hear this. What a complete b****r. So awful to be thwarted like this. I know you will stay as positive as you can and adapt to this new challenge. But I feel for you. Much love, Robyn
Gosh! So, so sorry to read this! I feel for you all – having followed your story from afar with all the Covid related setbacks too this must be a very harsh blow! Wishing you strength, resilience and a good resolution to this.
Devastating news, but keep the dream alive.
Oh Will, Suzy, Lucy and Sophie, we are so very very sorry to hear this. I’m sure you will come up with a great alternative plan, one thing Will you always excelled at was your route planning. We watch and wait for your next update.
All our love, Tom, Andrea and Ada x x x
OMG!!! We are so sorry to hear this. No wonder your freezer contents are still awaiting your return. What a total nightmare. So so sorry for you all. If we can be of any help please let us know. (Schools are wonderful in Winchester…)
Absolutely gutted for you and the girls. Seems something is always stopping you doing this. I want to say its for the best, etc, but am finding it difficult to do so.
If Najma, Safina or I can in any way raise your spirits or help then please let us know.
Chatan x