Sailing on Happy Eva: A Journey of Freedom and Flavors

Sander Herden

Some trips etch themselves into your memory, not because of the grand scale but because of their simplicity and magic. This was one of those trips. Just the two of us, a Fountaine Pajot Mahe 36 sailing catamaran named Happy Eva, and the open sea. For a few days, life was distilled down to its essence: wind in the sails, sun on our skin, and the allure of discovering new horizons. Before setting sail, we decided to create something unique to commemorate the journey—a bespoke cocktail. The recipe, much like the trip, was an impromptu blend of things we loved. It became our ritual to sip on this signature drink at sunset, as the horizon painted itself in hues of orange and pink. The Journey The weather couldn’t have been better. Each day greeted us with calm seas and warm breezes, perfect for exploring the coastal gems along the way. The beauty of sailing is the freedom it offers: stopping when you please, lingering in places that capture your heart, and moving on when curiosity calls. We stocked the boat generously, imagining cozy meals on board, but to our amusement, we found ourselves drawn to the local villages. Each stop brought a new culinary adventure—fresh seafood grilled to perfection, vibrant curries, and warm hospitality. Despite our best planning, our over-provisioned stores barely saw the light of day. A Missing Piece As perfect as the trip was, there was one thing missing: our three pups—Susie, Nandi, and Arak. They’re as much a part of our family as the two of us, and every serene moment on the deck felt like it was waiting for their playful presence. We often talked about how, one day, when we have our own boat, we’ll bring them along. It’s easy to imagine Susie curling up in the cockpit, Nandi watching the waves, and Arak bounding with excitement at every new port. Reflections Sailing Happy Eva was more than a getaway; it was a glimpse into a dream. The peaceful rhythm of life on the water, punctuated by laughter, good food, and shared discoveries, reminded us of the beauty of simplicity. The memories we made, from crafting our cocktail to exploring quiet village harbors, will stay with us forever. One day, we’ll sail with our three furry companions by our side. Until then, this trip remains a treasured chapter in our journey—a testament to the joy of adventure and the promise of many more to come. If you’ve ever dreamed of leaving it all behind and setting sail, let me assure you: it’s every bit as magical as it sounds.