Category Archives: Uncategorized

I spend the day on the boat. There is a determined breeze, which, once you get used to it, makes sailing the best fun. Initially it is scary. The Norfolk Gypsy is a strong boat and likes a bit of … Continue reading →

Harry and I set off at about 6:00 pm. I raise sail in the Marina basin. It is not good. I cannot get the the mainsail taught and there is an ugly crease across it. No amount of tugging on … Continue reading →

Down at the Marina I bump into Kiyuna san. He is excited and invites to his boat for coffee. With much ceremony, he presents me with a prayer scarf that he has made for me. As I understand, he has … Continue reading →

I mention to Kikura san and Daiki san that I would like to go snorkeling before the night tour the next day. They immediately draw up a detailed schedule with bus times, ferry times and hints. They send me to … Continue reading →

Off to the magic isles of Ishigaki and Iriomote to look for birdies. In fact Ishigaki is just a stop over, it has an airport, Iriomote does not. All the action takes place on Iriomote. I have free morning on … Continue reading →

I come from the U.K. where Hamburgers are maligned Today we go for lunch in a new hotel overlooking the ocean . My companion orders Hamburger. I order fish because I am on a stupid diet. I really wanted to … Continue reading →

We head North to search for the Rail; we being Tim, Mary and me. The Okinawa Rail is a very rare bird that is only found in the dense forests of Yanbaru. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Okinawa_rail Yanbaru was incidentally added to the Unesco … Continue reading →

For a few days now the Japanese media has been saying that as from July 26, those wishing to travel abroad can apply for a vaccination passport. The only proof that I have had two shots is a very Japanese … Continue reading →

Rain dominates our lives. It has been unrelenting. This is supposed to be Summer with long sails into the sunset. In fact I cower in my apartment worrying about my boat cover There is a typhoon hangin around South of … Continue reading →

A genial Englishman called Julian has shown up at the marina. He has lived in Japan for a long time and has much boating rules knowledge. I have very little. When I started on this adventure 3 years ago I … Continue reading →