EP#8: Mike Golding NZ to France via Africa on an Outremer 51 (for Research?)

⛵Info on Mike's Outremer 51 For Sale: https://www.multihullcentral.com/used_boats/outremer-51-for-sale-traverse/ 🔬Info on Seakeepers Charity: https://www.seakeepers.org/seakeepers-south-pacific/ 💰 Info on Selling Boats in the South Pacific: https://www.multihullcentral.com/sell-your-catamaran/ In this episode of 2 Hulls 1 Life Sailing Podcast, Mike Golding shares his extraordinary sailing journey aboard his Outremer 51 catamaran, detailing his transition from a successful ocean racing career to cruising with his family. He discusses the challenges and joys of sailing from New Zealand to France, via the Indian Ocean and under Africa, the importance of citizen science projects, and the unique experiences encountered along the way. Mike reflects on the boat's performance and how it handled various challenging conditions. Chapters 00:00 Sailing Journey Overview 02:33 Mike's Sailing History and Early Experiences 06:05 Transition to Racing and Achievements 12:41 From Racing to Cruising Catamarans 12:59 Family Cruising Adventure 18:16 Performance of the Outremer 51 28:14 Benefits of Cruising Catamarans 30:23 Setting Up for Cruising in New Zealand 33:03 Citizen Science Projects at Sea 39:30 The Invisible Community of Cruisers 39:58 Engaging in Citizen Science 41:13 Journey Beyond Fiji 42:12 Exploring Vanuatu's Remote Islands 45:34 Adventures in Indonesia 47:02 Crossing the Indian Ocean 48:25 Navigating South Africa's Coast 50:20 Regrouping in Cape Town 52:14 Conservation Efforts in Namibia 52:48 Unique Experiences on Ascension Island 54:59 Cultural Encounters in Brazil 56:51 Exploring French Guiana 57:48 Returning to the Caribbean 58:46 Family Adventures in the Azores 01:00:13 Navigating the Straits of Gibraltar 01:03:02 Interactions with Orcas 01:03:26 Reflections on the Journey 01:08:25 Future Adventures Await