Sailing Sade 2: A Journey of Firsts and Lasts

Sander Herden

Sometimes, a sailing trip becomes more than just an adventure—it transforms into a defining moment. Our five-day journey aboard Sade 2, a 36-foot monohull we affectionately dubbed “plastic fantastic,” was exactly that. This wasn’t just about covering miles from northern Phuket to Langkawi; it was about learning, growing, and savoring our first overnight sail together. Setting Sail The winds were perfect, filling Sade 2’s sails with just enough gusto to keep us on our toes while rewarding us with exhilarating speeds. This wasn’t your average pleasure cruise—it was an RYA sailing course, and every tack, jibe, and knot tied was a step toward mastering the art of seamanship. We had a fantastic crew aboard, sharing laughs, stories, and the occasional blunder, which only added to the camaraderie. Stops along the way included the pristine sands of Koh Roc Nok and the laid-back charm of Koh Lipe, each offering a respite from the rigors of sailing and a chance to marvel at the beauty of the Andaman Sea. Magic of the Full Moon The magic of this trip was amplified by a full moon that lit the night sky so brightly you could read a book on deck. As we sailed through the night, the silver light reflecting off the waves created an ethereal world—one that reminded us of why we fell in love with the sea in the first place. The sense of achievement was palpable as Julie passed her Competent Crew certification, and I earned my day Skipper. Our skipper was more than an instructor; he was a patient guide who made every lesson feel like a step closer to mastering the craft. A Race Against Time But as idyllic as the trip was, the shadow of a growing global crisis loomed over us. News of COVID-19 worsened by the day, and by the time we reached Langkawi, it was clear we were in a race against time to return home. We made it back to Singapore with only a few days to spare before borders closed and the world changed overnight. Two Years of What-Ifs Those two years of lockdown were challenging, filled with longing for the freedom of the open sea. Many times, we wished we’d owned a boat during that period, imagining how the monotony of isolation could have been broken by the gentle rhythm of waves and the thrill of a new horizon. Reflections Sailing Sade 2 was more than just a sailing course—it was an adventure marked by firsts and lasts, triumphs and challenges. It gave us new skills, unforgettable memories, and a yearning for more time on the water. And while we couldn’t change the two years of stillness that followed, this trip remains a beacon of hope and a reminder of the freedom that lies just beyond the shoreline. One day, we’ll have our own boat, ready to chase the horizon whenever the world feels too small. Until then, Sade 2 and the lessons she taught us will be a cherished part of our journey.