Saona 47 catamaran voyage: one year of sailing the seas

One year of sailing in a Saona 47 and still wanting to go further!

We met Catherine and Stéphane Rey again in 2024 at the Cannes Yachting Festival, when they were returning from a voyage between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. A year later, we met them again in Cannes to find out more about their adventures aboard their Saona 47 Île de Rey.

Between long-distance sailing, life on board, and cultural discoveries, their itinerary took them from the Caribbean to the Bahamas, then along the east coast of the United States to New York.

During our previous interview, Catherine and Stéphane had stopped in Mexico. From Isla Mujeres, they set sail again for the Bahamas, skirting Cuba before stopping in Key West, made necessary by the winds and currents. It was a well-managed leg of the journey, marked by the simple and efficient welcome from the US authorities.

Discover the next chapter in Catherine and Stéphane’s adventure aboard their Saona 47

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The Bahamas: why everyone is talking about it (and why we’re staying)

The Bahamas quickly became one of the highlights of the trip. The couple spent more than three months there, in what they describe as “a sailing paradise.” Everything is clear here. Sailing in five meters of water, on a turquoise sea protected by the islands, quickly becomes second nature. The Saona 47 finds its place effortlessly, both when sailing and at anchor.

The Exumas and Ragged Islands make a particular impression on them. These are more isolated areas, sometimes still marked by the passage of Hurricane Irma, but offering exceptional anchorages and a real sense of freedom.

And then there are those moments you don’t anticipate. While swimming, a dolphin comes to share their moment, staying close to them for over an hour. A simple memory, just like this sailing trip.

Heading north! We’re changing latitude, not mindset

After the Bahamas, Catherine and Stéphane headed north. They chose to avoid Miami and go directly to St. Augustine, Florida. The pace of the trip then changed. Their stops became more urban and cultural, while remaining deeply maritime.

Savannah and Charleston charmed them with their historic centers, Victorian architecture, and European influences. Further north, Cape Hatteras demands more attention before arriving in Norfolk, the largest US naval base.

Stéphane fondly remembers their radio exchanges with a huge military aircraft carrier, the USS George H. W. Bush, which they encountered in the channel. It was a striking contrast to their catamaran and a good glimpse of the diversity of situations encountered in long-distance sailing.

New York by sea… seriously?

Arriving in New York remains one of the highlights of the trip. After crossing the Verrazano Bridge, Catherine and Stéphane drop anchor opposite the Statue of Liberty.

Contrary to what they had imagined, they find themselves alone at this authorized anchorage. The boat is calm, with the city in the background. Manhattan gradually lights up, without ever disturbing life on board. A simple evening, lived to the fullest, from their catamaran.

They then continue their exploration by water, sailing up the Hudson and East Rivers, skirting Rikers Island, before finding refuge in the quiet coves of Long Island. In Port Washington, they discover a particularly appreciated balance, with Manhattan accessible in just 45 minutes by train.

Drop anchor, slow down… and enjoy

Their adventure continues towards Delaware Bay, then the artificial canal leading to Chesapeake Bay. A very different territory, where navigation becomes more inland, almost river-like at times.

The calm anchorages, abundant wildlife, and omnipresent vegetation leave a deep impression on them. The Sassafras River remains one of their fondest memories.

“The Sassafras River is something you couldn’t make up. We were alone. Lots of birds, lots of wildlife… and incredible vegetation.”

In Annapolis, an unexpected encounter perfectly illustrates the spirit of the trip. Intrigued by their French flag, a local spontaneously invites them to lunch at his home. It’s a moment of simple exchange, facilitated by the boat and the curiosity it arouses.

What is it like to live on board for a long time?

Catherine and Stéphane spent nearly a month in the region before wintering their Saona 47 in northern Chesapeake Bay, outside the hurricane zone defined by insurers.

They emphasize the importance of being well prepared for sailing in the United States, particularly with regard to obtaining a B2 visa and appropriate insurance. Once these elements are in place, the formalities are simple and sailing is peaceful.

Throughout their trip, their Saona 47 proved to be a reliable and reassuring boat. Safety, comfort on board, ease of maneuvering with two people, and conviviality are a natural part of their daily life at sea.

Where do we go now?

Next, Catherine and Stéphane plan to set sail again from Chesapeake Bay. On the agenda is another round trip to the Bahamas before heading to Maine.

This region is renowned for its scenery, but is only navigable for a short period during the summer, due to fog, cold waters, and numerous fishing traps. It’s a new chapter, approached with the same mindset: observe, anticipate, sail when conditions are right… and continue to enjoy the journey.