A 10-Year Circumnavigation in a 25-ft Yacht: Carina Juhhova’s Journey with L’Envol

“We made it!” exclaimed Christophe, as L’Envol finally crossed her wake, marking the completion of their ambitious circumnavigation. Though positioned over 100 miles from the Brazilian coast after an exhilarating 14-day run from St. Helena Island, the joy in the moment felt tangible. Their journey of nearly 50,000 nautical miles over ten years defied all preconceived notions about bluewater yacht sizes and cruising budgets.

The Beginning

The adventure began in 2015 when Juhhova was working at Cape Horn Tourist Information in Puerto Williams. After five years of hitchhiking from Estonia to Chile, she found herself settling in which she thought was the end of her wanderings. However, the magnetic pull of the ocean and the sailors that frequented the area ignited a new passion. Among these sailors was Christophe Mora, a single-handed sailor on a mission of his own; a captivating figure unlike the seasoned mariners she was used to.

Unconventional Choices

At 36, Christophe, a professional mountaineer and ski instructor, sought a way to change his lifestyle. His transformation began by selling everything unnecessary and dedicating himself to sailing. Instead of focusing on a larger, more comfortable yacht, he opted for the compact and efficient Django 770, prioritizing a swift departure over extensive renovations. Despite being the smallest boat he had seen attempting to navigate through the treacherous waters of the ‘Furious 50s,’ its design promised seaworthiness and adaptability.

Life Aboard L’Envol

L’Envol was not outfitted with all the comforts of home, but it was equipped with the essentials for off-grid living. The interior held a V-berth, two bunks, a minuscule galley equipped with basic cookware, and sparse navigational tools—just enough to ensure they could safely explore distant waters. The couple’s motto? “What you have not got cannot break.” This minimalist approach to sailing enabled them to thrive in challenging conditions, emphasizing durability over luxury.

Embracing the Elements

Setting sail in Patagonia’s winter with temperatures often hovering between 0-10°C posed its challenges. Yet, woodland hiking during the day and expedition-grade sleeping bags kept them warm at night. The absence of an inboard motor on L’Envol left more space for a water tank, making their setup both efficient and practical. Every ounce counted, as harsh conditions demanded lightweight gear and strict attention to boat weight.

Gear and Setup

Christophe custom-built a hard top for L’Envol, a crucial adaptation to endure the severe winter depressions in the southern latitudes. Their equipment choices—such as opting for a hard top instead of the original Django design—were made with functionality and safety in mind. With an impressive array of sails, including a furling gennaker and a storm jib, L’Envol proved herself capable during the most turbulent passages.

Anchoring Techniques

Anchoring proved central to their lifestyle; a strong 21lb Spade anchor and meticulous tie-ups with shorelines offered protection during storms. They often secured L’Envol with several lines tied to nearby trees or rocks, particularly in the windy Fjord Pasqui.

The Weight Game

Midway through their journey in Tasmania, increasing weight became an issue. Rather than paint over this, Christophe suggested shedding unnecessary gear to improve performance. They sold two heavy lead-acid batteries, lightening L’Envol enough to enhance her sailing capabilities. The couple recorded impressive mileage during passages, showcasing how finely-tuned adjustments led to success at sea.

Story of Perseverance

Despite their small size, L’Envol’s seaworthiness often astonished them. Juhhova and Mora faced numerous challenges, including relentless winds during their longer crossings. The absence of insurance became a metaphor for their adventurous spirit—living free without limitations imposed by others. They navigated life’s uncertainties and learned that true richness lies in experiences rather than possessions.

Navigating Financial Waters

Living on a tight budget of around £450 per month fostered a unique blend of creativity and resourcefulness. A lifestyle of hitchhiking instead of car rentals and anchoring instead of marinas allowed them to stretch their finances and live a life centered on exploration and adventure. The couple engaged with their readers through crowd-funding initiatives, receiving support during challenging moments like equipment failures or medical emergencies.

Building Community Connections

Their interactions further broadened their worldview. In coastal towns, they found opportunities to connect with locals and immerse themselves in differing cultures. Participating in communal events like traditional Curanto in Chiloe, they navigated the delicate balance between adventure and community, blending seamlessly into the landscape they explored.

Charting New Waters

Over the years, Juhhova and Mora made tactical adjustments to their plans, allowing an exploration pace that emphasized enjoyment over urgency. This flexible itinerary included extended stays across various islands, enriched with unforgettable moments and newfound friendships with locals.

With the winds of destiny still propelling them forward, Juhhova and Mora continued writing their story aboard L’Envol, discovering that sailing small and simple not only provides a means of global exploration but also reveals a lifestyle steeped in freedom and wonder. Each nautical mile became a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the joy of living boldly.