Atlantic Children - Part 1

A journey from Italy to the Caribbean and then home to the UK, by sailing boat, with two small children (aged 6 and 8). The story, told by the mother, describes the decision to leave England, to sell the house and many of their belongings, to give up careers and school, and to leave family and friends.

The family embarks on a nomadic adventure through the Mediterranean and across the Atlantic to St Lucia, gradually learning about the boat and themselves, and visiting many little-known and beautiful places. There are scenes of tension as they encounter bad weather and difficult situations, and of joy as they overcome challenges and experience many wonders of the natural and marine world. A pod of sperm whale passes within metres, dolphins swim at the bow, and the rescue of turtles trapped in abandoned fishing nets.

The crossing from the Canary Islands to St Lucia is described in detail. 19 days of continuous horizon, total self-sufficiency, a constant eye on the weather forecast and the latent threat of pirates.

A true story, told in an honest and self-deprecating way. Suitable for sailors and non-sailors, from teenager to grandparent.