Dan travels far from home. Sailing with his dad and his sailing buddies, Dan meets fascinating people, endures harsh weather conditions, and rough seas. This story is Dan’s account onboard a newly commissioned Tartan 43-foot sloop-rigged sailboat named Czech Mate. Although he was a novice sailor, the experience gave him a lifetime of memories and allowed him to learn incredible lessons. As you will see, some of those lessons can only be experienced by a sailor. So get ready, come along and enjoy the ride—or rather, the sail. Our sails are set, the weather is with us, and it’s time to head for the open seas. Like sailors often say, “Ahoy, mate, tropical islands, here we come!”
A young boy and his dog, tak a canoe ride on a lake. A large bird swoops down toward