From New Mexico to Living Aboard with Two Little Ones

[Hakuna Matata]

Hello friends!

We are Rosa Linda and Nathan, to be known collectively in these forums by our boat's name, which is "Hakuna Matata."

We're a couple from the mountains of New Mexico that just put all our stuff in storage, bought a 42' sailing catamaran in Fort Lauderdale and moved aboard with two little girls and a German Shepherd.

We have been aboard for about 6 weeks and are now in West Palm Beach preparing for our first crossing to the Bahamas. We would love to meet up with others who will also be crossing soon. Just awaiting our dog's import papers and favorable weather conditions.

Also, very much interested in any ideas on making it all work with a 2 and 4 year old on board. We have been reading many of your posts with interest (how to train a dog to go on the "poop deck," what safety suggestions people have for kids, etc.) and look forward to contributing in whatever way we can along the way.

[rebel heart]

Good luck and welcome aboard. You're in for some amazing adventures; I hope you have a good camera and keep some journals!

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha and Welcome aboard!
regards

[colemj]

Hi guys,

Congrats! Which Manta do you have (Hull #, previous name)? We are in Norfolk and heading down your way for the Bahamas and points further south on our Manta 40. Can't help with the kid or dog stuff, but if you have any technical questions about the boat just give a shout.

Mark

[PHIL+MARYANNE]

Congrats on a Manta MKIV - I assume that used to be Long Reach?

1. Be sure to join the Manta-Owners forum (this is a private, VERY helpful forum for Manta Owners). Go to Yahoo Groups and request permission be emailing the moderator.
2. Arni and his wife - Cam and two daughters have been sailing on Jade - Manta #95, for 4+ years.... ALL the way to Australia, Japan and Korea!!! He is a WONDERFUL resource. And their website is great - even has videos of cruising with kids in big seas. www.camarni.com.

We're in the Virgin Islands, but have cruised the Carib, Bahamas and East Coast on Calypso - Manta MKIV #112 - for the past three years. FANTASTIC! Lots of pics and links on our website - Home. Drop us an email if you have any specific questions.
Cheers!
Phil & MaryAnne von Stade
Calypso
Virgin Gorda....