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Tightwads on the Loose: A Seven Year Pacific Odyssey
Everyone dreams of tropical escape. But what happens when you escape for too long? Imagine spending 24 hours a day with your spouse in 31 not-so-square feet . . . for years; crossing the Pacific Ocean on two gallons of fuel; and tossing spaghetti marinara around your living room, then cleaning it up while bouncing like ice in a martini shaker. Tightwads on the Loose tells the story of Wendy and Garth, lured to sea by the promise of adventure. They buy a 31-foot boat that fits their budget better than it fits Garth's large frame and set sail for an open-ended voyage, never imagining they'd be gone seven years, or cover 34,000 miles at the pace of a fast walk. They live without most “necessities” and learn that teamwork and a sense of humor matter most as they face endless "character-building opportunities." They make a long-anticipated visit to the island where Garth had been shipwrecked as a teenager, only to find it had become a penal colony. An electronic catastrophe in the Solomon Islands leaves them without navigation equipment, which forces them to trade their free-wheeling lifestyle for one that seems straight out of a '60s jobs at a U.S. Army base in the Marshall Islands. In Asia, they dodge typhoons and ships that threaten to turn their home into kindling. Finally they endure a grueling 49-day nonstop ocean crossing. None of this prepares them for their arrival "home" to a post-9/11 America which leaves them wondering what had changed more, them or the world. Tightwads on the Loose offers a fun read to the armchair adventurer -- or anyone afflicted with wanderlust.
374 pages, Paperback
First published March 31, 2012
49 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Hinman
4 books25 followersWendy Hinman has an insatiable curiosity and a natural inclination to share her discoveries. She loves stories: telling them, writing them, reading them and editing them. And she has plenty of engaging stories to tell, some serious, some not-so-serious.
After years trotting the globe for business and vacation travel, she instigated a waterborne adventure, sailing 34,000 miles over seven years with her husband on a 31-foot boat. She even managed to return sane (or so she thinks), still married and innocent of plotting murder. Along the way, she shared many of their (mis)adventures online and in magazines. Yet many still remained untold. Her book, Tightwads on the Loose: A Seven-Year Pacific Odyssey, details her seven year adventure afloat.
http://wendyhinman.com/
“I'd love to hear your questions! p.s. and if you are part of a book group, know that I am always happy to talk with book groups by phone or Skype...”
After years trotting the globe for business and vacation travel, she instigated a waterborne adventure, sailing 34,000 miles over seven years with her husband on a 31-foot boat. She even managed to return sane (or so she thinks), still married and innocent of plotting murder. Along the way, she shared many of their (mis)adventures online and in magazines. Yet many still remained untold. Her book, Tightwads on the Loose: A Seven-Year Pacific Odyssey, details her seven year adventure afloat.
http://wendyhinman.com/
“I'd love to hear your questions! p.s. and if you are part of a book group, know that I am always happy to talk with book groups by phone or Skype...”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 25, 2020
Have you ever dreamed of dropping out of “regular” life for a long-term travel adventure?
That’s what Wendy Hinman and her husband did when they quit their jobs, crammed their belongings into a 31-foot sailboat and headed out into the Pacific Ocean. Their adventure lasted SEVEN YEARS. As part of it, they stayed for months at a time at different locations throughout the Pacific. They even got jobs working in the US Marshall Islands to replenish their savings. But once they had enough money, they were back on the ocean, searching for their next adventure.
I loved reading about their travels for several reasons, but mostly because I could never stand to live on a boat and I could never sail in a small boat across the open water. I’m claustrophobic AND I get seasick AND I’m afraid of the open ocean. So reading about their experiences is the closest I’m going to get to a sailing journey. And it was fun and fascinating to live vicariously through them from the comfort of solid ground.
https://www.instagram.com/bookishbytes/
That’s what Wendy Hinman and her husband did when they quit their jobs, crammed their belongings into a 31-foot sailboat and headed out into the Pacific Ocean. Their adventure lasted SEVEN YEARS. As part of it, they stayed for months at a time at different locations throughout the Pacific. They even got jobs working in the US Marshall Islands to replenish their savings. But once they had enough money, they were back on the ocean, searching for their next adventure.
I loved reading about their travels for several reasons, but mostly because I could never stand to live on a boat and I could never sail in a small boat across the open water. I’m claustrophobic AND I get seasick AND I’m afraid of the open ocean. So reading about their experiences is the closest I’m going to get to a sailing journey. And it was fun and fascinating to live vicariously through them from the comfort of solid ground.
https://www.instagram.com/bookishbytes/
August 9, 2017
Excellent read. As an exsailor and a citizen of the Puget Sound area, the story really hit home. Wish I was there!
October 8, 2020
Crap audio, the woman's voice got on my nerves.
December 11, 2020
For my full review, please follow the link below:
https://www.bookwormadventuregirl.com...
https://www.bookwormadventuregirl.com...
April 1, 2016
This is the story of Wendy and Garth who lived their dream life on a sailing adventure that lasted 7 years. I loved this story because Wendy and Garth planned for this voyage, saved their paychecks, quit their 9 to 5 jobs and made it happen. They escaped. Ran away, so to speak, and they lived on about $33 dollars a day. This book is both funny and exciting. The narrative perks along with lots of humor. I laughed when they had to get jobs on an Army base for 2 years when their equipment broke down and felt the grip of excitemnt with the typhoons in Japan--exactly why I'm more comfortable as an armchair sailor. Read it yourself and find out what it was like returning to a post 9-11 world after living the dream life. This isn't a book I'd normally choose off the shelf to read, but it was hard to put down once I got started. I'd read it again and recommend it to friends
February 12, 2017
This was a really cool and approachable story about a very looooooong sailing trip. It was particularly entertaining for me for having a chance to briefly meet the author--while in the company of a couple people she mentions in the book...
It felt in many parts like almost being there; that was generally a good thing but for some sections it was probably better to just read about it (knowing that in the end the uncertain things turned out ok). Very fast beach read that at the end really also opened up opportunity to reflect on how much is enough, what makes a good life (and what does THAT mean anyway) and how "normal" life tends to mirror sailing in that there is always going to be a lot of tacking back and forth...
It felt in many parts like almost being there; that was generally a good thing but for some sections it was probably better to just read about it (knowing that in the end the uncertain things turned out ok). Very fast beach read that at the end really also opened up opportunity to reflect on how much is enough, what makes a good life (and what does THAT mean anyway) and how "normal" life tends to mirror sailing in that there is always going to be a lot of tacking back and forth...
August 26, 2012
Hinman and her husband spent 7 years on a 31 foot sailboat that held only a few gallons of gas for back up and 45 gallons of water. With only a little money, they sailed the Pacific. But this true story shows that you can't survive on just a dream. Years of preparation and training went into the voyage, and there were plenty of disasters along the way, including a power surge that left them for two years in the Marshall Islands working to repair their boat and replace the electronics. But the payoff was the complete freedom from modern day obligations to our jobs and hand-held devices. I love reading about the nuts and bolts of how people achieve their dreams.
August 31, 2013
'm addicted to first-person accounts of sailing around the world. I'll read anything I can find about the cruising life. "Tightwads" is one of the best I've found. Not only does the book offer a clear, exhilarating recounting of life at sea, but the writing is skilled, the characters have depth, and the structure includes well-crafted plot and conflict that is often missing in such memoirs.
Highly pleasurable. I recommend this book to any daydreamer counting down the days until they can shove off.
Highly pleasurable. I recommend this book to any daydreamer counting down the days until they can shove off.
March 8, 2018
I just finished Tightwads on the Loose and loved it! I’ve read a LOT of sailing books, and it was definitely one of my favorites. Wendy's honesty, grit, and understatement were refreshing, as was her focus on simplicity. The book is very helpful encouragement for anyone trying to embark on a similar voyage! Thank you for the great and inspiring book.
February 4, 2014
This book is a better-than-average travel book, in my opinion. The author writes well, and has a way with phrases that catches the imagination. Good mix of topics, ranging from technical details to what was going on in her head at the time.
January 5, 2018
One of my favorite cruising memoirs, about an intrepid couple and their journey from Seattle to Japan and back. Wendy's writing is lively, vivid and engaging. Highly recommend!
October 25, 2020
For more reviews and bookish posts please visit: https://www.ManOfLaBook.com
Tightwads on the Loose: A Seven Year Pacific Odyssey by Wendy Hinman is a memoir of the author, after she went on a boat trip around the world with her husband. Mrs. Hinman is a professional writer and, of course, a sailor and boating enthusiast.
Traveling around the world seems like a far-off dream to most people. For Wendy Hinman and her husband, Garth, this dream became reality when they set off on a one-in-a-lifetime (maybe) adventure which took around seven years to complete.
In Tightwads on the Loose: A Seven Year Pacific Odyssey, Mrs. Hinman chronicles the highs, and lows, of their trip around the world. While it does sound enticing, the Hinman’s traveled on a very low budget, and as many people know, boats aren’t a cheap vehicle to maintain. Luckily Mr. Hinman is boat engineer, and a very good mechanic.
The author does not shy away from writing about the hardships the couple has endured. From being on in close quarters for weeks at a time, corrupt officials, weather ruining plans (which seemed to be a running theme), and different ideas on what to do where. All that with the fact that the couple were on a very tight budget, as the title suggest, which makes every port fee a burden, and haggling for fresh food a must.
I have traveled much as well, besides the fact that in many places I was looked upon as a cash machine, with the Hinman’s also discovered, the best part was about the people I met and experiences I had – even though I know admit that I was too young to appreciate them. The people the couple met keep reappearing throughout the book, as it is in real life when traveling for even a few months. Boating, as mentioned over and over again, is an expensive hobby, and if something breaks it has to be fixed. For several months the Hinman’s even had to work in an American military base in the Pacific to save enough money to fix their boat.
The writing captures life at sea, on a small boat, and worse. on a budget. The ports the couple stopped at are very lively and interesting. The author chose wisely to concentrate on people and experiences instead of trying to capture the magic of every waterfall they hiked to.
The audiobook, narrated by Robin Karno, was very engaging and enjoyable. Ms. Karno did an admirable job trying to bring to life not only the Hinman’s but also the people they met along the way.
Tightwads on the Loose: A Seven Year Pacific Odyssey by Wendy Hinman is a memoir of the author, after she went on a boat trip around the world with her husband. Mrs. Hinman is a professional writer and, of course, a sailor and boating enthusiast.
Traveling around the world seems like a far-off dream to most people. For Wendy Hinman and her husband, Garth, this dream became reality when they set off on a one-in-a-lifetime (maybe) adventure which took around seven years to complete.
In Tightwads on the Loose: A Seven Year Pacific Odyssey, Mrs. Hinman chronicles the highs, and lows, of their trip around the world. While it does sound enticing, the Hinman’s traveled on a very low budget, and as many people know, boats aren’t a cheap vehicle to maintain. Luckily Mr. Hinman is boat engineer, and a very good mechanic.
The author does not shy away from writing about the hardships the couple has endured. From being on in close quarters for weeks at a time, corrupt officials, weather ruining plans (which seemed to be a running theme), and different ideas on what to do where. All that with the fact that the couple were on a very tight budget, as the title suggest, which makes every port fee a burden, and haggling for fresh food a must.
I have traveled much as well, besides the fact that in many places I was looked upon as a cash machine, with the Hinman’s also discovered, the best part was about the people I met and experiences I had – even though I know admit that I was too young to appreciate them. The people the couple met keep reappearing throughout the book, as it is in real life when traveling for even a few months. Boating, as mentioned over and over again, is an expensive hobby, and if something breaks it has to be fixed. For several months the Hinman’s even had to work in an American military base in the Pacific to save enough money to fix their boat.
The writing captures life at sea, on a small boat, and worse. on a budget. The ports the couple stopped at are very lively and interesting. The author chose wisely to concentrate on people and experiences instead of trying to capture the magic of every waterfall they hiked to.
The audiobook, narrated by Robin Karno, was very engaging and enjoyable. Ms. Karno did an admirable job trying to bring to life not only the Hinman’s but also the people they met along the way.
September 16, 2020
Tightwads on the Loose by Wendy Hinman is a story that details the adventures of a young couple exploring the high seas of the Pacific Ocean aboard a 31-foot sailboat.
Hinman tells the story from her perspective. She uses a journal she kept to discuss in detail how she and her husband left Seattle's corporate "rat-race" to explore parts of Mexico, the French Polynesian islands, and Japan as well as other islands along the way.
While at sea, she describes how she and her husband devoured books and listened to music for entertainment. She also goes into great detail describing the mechanics and the tribulations of sailing. On land, she talks about the relationships she and her husband created, her comradery with other sailors, and the history of the locations they visit. She also mentions some of her tourist activities, such as hiking mountains.
I appreciated how the writer understood the significance of using strong verbs, short sentences, and clear visual details. The audiobook's advantage was the ability to pull up a map on my computer screen while listening so I could follow their route. I would occasionally go to Google images to visit the islands with them so I could get a better idea of the scenery and the culture.
When I listened to the book, I thought the focus would be on her tourist activities on the islands she and her husband visited. I also thought it would describe the culture more. She does this mostly in Hong Kong. After a while, it became apparent that sailing is her passion, and the book was more about sailing the open waters. However, my sailing experience is limited. Upon listening to the first chapter, I felt like I should have picked up a book about sailing or watched an introductory video about the basics of sailing to understand the terminology. I also thought she had some additional opportunities to discuss the strain of being isolated on the boat with one other person, and how it affects the relationship.
Overall, I liked the book. It had the right amount of suspenseful moments. I would recommend it, but I would highly suggest for the sailing community.
Hinman tells the story from her perspective. She uses a journal she kept to discuss in detail how she and her husband left Seattle's corporate "rat-race" to explore parts of Mexico, the French Polynesian islands, and Japan as well as other islands along the way.
While at sea, she describes how she and her husband devoured books and listened to music for entertainment. She also goes into great detail describing the mechanics and the tribulations of sailing. On land, she talks about the relationships she and her husband created, her comradery with other sailors, and the history of the locations they visit. She also mentions some of her tourist activities, such as hiking mountains.
I appreciated how the writer understood the significance of using strong verbs, short sentences, and clear visual details. The audiobook's advantage was the ability to pull up a map on my computer screen while listening so I could follow their route. I would occasionally go to Google images to visit the islands with them so I could get a better idea of the scenery and the culture.
When I listened to the book, I thought the focus would be on her tourist activities on the islands she and her husband visited. I also thought it would describe the culture more. She does this mostly in Hong Kong. After a while, it became apparent that sailing is her passion, and the book was more about sailing the open waters. However, my sailing experience is limited. Upon listening to the first chapter, I felt like I should have picked up a book about sailing or watched an introductory video about the basics of sailing to understand the terminology. I also thought she had some additional opportunities to discuss the strain of being isolated on the boat with one other person, and how it affects the relationship.
Overall, I liked the book. It had the right amount of suspenseful moments. I would recommend it, but I would highly suggest for the sailing community.
August 18, 2020
Travel. Travel. Travel. I love to travel! Discovering new place, tasting local delicacies and meeting interesting people. Unfortunately, due to the current state of the world, I’ve not be able to take my annual trip to Europe, visit countries yet to be discovered by my little party of two. So, when I came across Tightwads on the Loose I thought it would be a great way to get a bit of travelling in from the comfort of my home. At first, I found it difficult to get into the story and thought it was going to be a bit of a chore to listen to, however, I soon got into Wendy’s and Garth’s travelling adventures.
After years of scrimping and saving Wendy and Garth’s dream to sail around the world finally comes true and they set of on their 7-year trip. Wendy’s tale of her sailing trip around the world with her husband Garth on their little sailboat is both inspirational and informative. The description of the places and people they encounter easily conjures up colour images that helps the listener to visualise Wendy’s story. I would have liked to have heard Garth’s take on their trip, especially when he wants to return home to build his dream boat. Tightwads on the Loose is a tale I could relate to. Even though I do not travel the seas, I do enjoy travelling and often feel the pull to travel and explore new places.
I received an audio copy of Tightwads on the Loose in exchange for an honest review.
After years of scrimping and saving Wendy and Garth’s dream to sail around the world finally comes true and they set of on their 7-year trip. Wendy’s tale of her sailing trip around the world with her husband Garth on their little sailboat is both inspirational and informative. The description of the places and people they encounter easily conjures up colour images that helps the listener to visualise Wendy’s story. I would have liked to have heard Garth’s take on their trip, especially when he wants to return home to build his dream boat. Tightwads on the Loose is a tale I could relate to. Even though I do not travel the seas, I do enjoy travelling and often feel the pull to travel and explore new places.
I received an audio copy of Tightwads on the Loose in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2020
Audiobook Review: Tightwads on the Loose: A Seven Year Pacific Odyssey by Wendy Hinman
(Published by Salsa Press, March 31, 2012)
4.25 Stars.
Audiobook production review: Excellent quality. Terrific first-person narration by Robin Karno, along with an equally talented crew with authentic accents - Nihongo, Bislama, Chamorro, Pidgin English, Fiji-Indian, Tahitian French, etal.
- - - - - -
Seven years, 34,000 miles on such a small craft! What courage and determination!
This reviewer's sentiments, as someone who's been to most of those places, albeit by air, and did spend lots of time with God, the wind and the sea on cats and kingfishers, is best summed up by Jiro & Kohei:
As the humble Japanese put it, we're not worthy, indeed!
And deep お辞儀 (Japanese bow) to Wendy and Garth.
(Photo)
The lovely Wylie 31 "Velella"
Thanks for the ride. Marvelous read!
Review based on a "late" ARC from Salsa Press and NetGalley.
(Published by Salsa Press, March 31, 2012)
4.25 Stars.
Audiobook production review: Excellent quality. Terrific first-person narration by Robin Karno, along with an equally talented crew with authentic accents - Nihongo, Bislama, Chamorro, Pidgin English, Fiji-Indian, Tahitian French, etal.
- - - - - -
Seven years, 34,000 miles on such a small craft! What courage and determination!
This reviewer's sentiments, as someone who's been to most of those places, albeit by air, and did spend lots of time with God, the wind and the sea on cats and kingfishers, is best summed up by Jiro & Kohei:
"Then", Jiro asked, "where you go next?"
"Fukuoka.", Garth said.
"After Japan?"
"We sail to America.", I said.
"J-j-japan-n-n to America???", he said slowly, shaking his head.
Before Jiro could translate, Kohei looked instantly surprised. Kohei then stood up, squared his body, gave a full bow from the waist.
Then, kneeled, and bowed low, nearly prostrate to the ground.
His gesture touched me deeply, though, I was well aware we hadn't done it yet.
"You are v-very brave!", Jiro said. Then after a pause added,
"Crazy, maybe."
We laughed. "Yes, maybe a little bit crazy", Garth said.
As the humble Japanese put it, we're not worthy, indeed!
And deep お辞儀 (Japanese bow) to Wendy and Garth.
(Photo)
The lovely Wylie 31 "Velella"
Thanks for the ride. Marvelous read!
Review based on a "late" ARC from Salsa Press and NetGalley.
March 22, 2021
I have to preface my review with the fact that I know Wendy, and was privileged to be in a writing group with her for a short time while she was writing her second book, Sea Trials. She is a delightful person and an excellent story teller. I’m embarrassed that it took me so long to read her book; I added it to my “to read” list about seven years ago and I have no good reason for waiting so long!
What an incredible adventure! Wendy’s descriptions bring her story to life. I have never wanted to undertake anything like this voyage, so being able to “experience” it through her was thrilling! She shared equally their good and bad experiences, nothing was sugar coated, but the excitement of exploring new places and meeting new people shone through. The realities of leaving “real life” behind and adjusting to living in a tiny, constantly moving space were entertainingly explained. I never realized the physicality of sailing before reading this book. Wendy is one strong woman! She tells her story with humor, but mater-of-factly. Her ability to connect quickly with people and be comfortable in almost any circumstance gives her story well rounded insight.
If you’ve ever wanted to embark on a long sea voyage, read this book! If you’ve never wanted to, read this book! You’ll learn a lot either way, and enjoy it while you do.
What an incredible adventure! Wendy’s descriptions bring her story to life. I have never wanted to undertake anything like this voyage, so being able to “experience” it through her was thrilling! She shared equally their good and bad experiences, nothing was sugar coated, but the excitement of exploring new places and meeting new people shone through. The realities of leaving “real life” behind and adjusting to living in a tiny, constantly moving space were entertainingly explained. I never realized the physicality of sailing before reading this book. Wendy is one strong woman! She tells her story with humor, but mater-of-factly. Her ability to connect quickly with people and be comfortable in almost any circumstance gives her story well rounded insight.
If you’ve ever wanted to embark on a long sea voyage, read this book! If you’ve never wanted to, read this book! You’ll learn a lot either way, and enjoy it while you do.
December 14, 2020
This year without traveling has been rough on me. So I’ve been enjoying books that take me to exotic locations, and whisk me off to far away places.
Which is what drew me to Tightwads on the Loose. This is the story of Wendy and Garth, and their seven years sailing the Pacific together.
When Wendy and Garth give up their land based life for a 31-square-foot sail boat - that Garth can’t stand up in - and set off from Seattle to Baja, the couple learns more about teamwork and how to compromise than I imagine any other couple ever would.
This was a fun listen! I loved the descriptions of the islands and the different cultures the couple encounters. Part of the thrill of traveling is experiencing new cultures.
I found myself laughing at the chaos, tensing up as the couple braved sailing through storms, and adding placed to my bucket list.
There was, however, a lot of boat and sailing minutiae that went right over my head. I’m are if you’re into sailing or sailboats, these parts would be more enjoyable.
I also loved the narrator, she really brought the story to life. I honestly felt like I was having a conversation with my friend who was telling me about their journey, not listening to an audiobook.
Which is what drew me to Tightwads on the Loose. This is the story of Wendy and Garth, and their seven years sailing the Pacific together.
When Wendy and Garth give up their land based life for a 31-square-foot sail boat - that Garth can’t stand up in - and set off from Seattle to Baja, the couple learns more about teamwork and how to compromise than I imagine any other couple ever would.
This was a fun listen! I loved the descriptions of the islands and the different cultures the couple encounters. Part of the thrill of traveling is experiencing new cultures.
I found myself laughing at the chaos, tensing up as the couple braved sailing through storms, and adding placed to my bucket list.
There was, however, a lot of boat and sailing minutiae that went right over my head. I’m are if you’re into sailing or sailboats, these parts would be more enjoyable.
I also loved the narrator, she really brought the story to life. I honestly felt like I was having a conversation with my friend who was telling me about their journey, not listening to an audiobook.
September 5, 2020
I enjoy memoirs & the story of a sailing adventure sounded great!
In this audiobook, we journey with Wendy & Garth on their sailing adventure, travelling over 34,000 miles round the Pacific. The journey lasts over seven years, during which time they are living in very cramped conditions on a 31-foot boat – bought to fit their budget, not so much Garth’s large frame!
The story is full of humour, tales of kindness and many challenges that they face on the way. There are vivid descriptions of the culture they encounter & the many encounters with local people. There are moments of humanity when the local people and/or the sailing community pull together to help people in need (there are of course the negatives such as being over-charged in the Philippines for being American) – the book really does show the highs & lows, the “good, the bad & the ugly”.
The narration is so well-suited to the story that I thought it was being narrated by Wendy herself – the narrator has a very conversational tone rather than it sounding as if she is reading a book!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this audiobook free from the publisher via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the publisher & author for the opportunity to listen to it, all opinions are my own.
#TightwadsontheLoose #NetGalley
In this audiobook, we journey with Wendy & Garth on their sailing adventure, travelling over 34,000 miles round the Pacific. The journey lasts over seven years, during which time they are living in very cramped conditions on a 31-foot boat – bought to fit their budget, not so much Garth’s large frame!
The story is full of humour, tales of kindness and many challenges that they face on the way. There are vivid descriptions of the culture they encounter & the many encounters with local people. There are moments of humanity when the local people and/or the sailing community pull together to help people in need (there are of course the negatives such as being over-charged in the Philippines for being American) – the book really does show the highs & lows, the “good, the bad & the ugly”.
The narration is so well-suited to the story that I thought it was being narrated by Wendy herself – the narrator has a very conversational tone rather than it sounding as if she is reading a book!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this audiobook free from the publisher via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the publisher & author for the opportunity to listen to it, all opinions are my own.
#TightwadsontheLoose #NetGalley
October 13, 2020
I can’t even begin to imagine having lived through such an incredible adventure! It makes me want to seize every minute of my life and do something interesting!
I really enjoyed the first part of the book. There were so many great stories of the trials and tribulations of getting used to their new life on the water. Once it turned more toward boat maintenance (which I definitely realize is a very important and major part of living life on a boat), some of the sense of adventure true was lost for me a little. I still really enjoyed the stories about the different countries, towns, and cities they visited, and learning more about cultures I was unfamiliar with.
The author did an excellent job of portraying the differences between her personality and her husband’s while also making it very clear why their marriage worked.
The accented narration of people from other countries wasn’t my favorite, but aside from that, I thought the narration was spot on for this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Salsa Press, and Wendy Hinman for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the first part of the book. There were so many great stories of the trials and tribulations of getting used to their new life on the water. Once it turned more toward boat maintenance (which I definitely realize is a very important and major part of living life on a boat), some of the sense of adventure true was lost for me a little. I still really enjoyed the stories about the different countries, towns, and cities they visited, and learning more about cultures I was unfamiliar with.
The author did an excellent job of portraying the differences between her personality and her husband’s while also making it very clear why their marriage worked.
The accented narration of people from other countries wasn’t my favorite, but aside from that, I thought the narration was spot on for this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Salsa Press, and Wendy Hinman for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2020
Wendy Hinman has written a fascinating book, beautifully narrated by Robin Karno, about her seven year voyage with her husband Garth, in a 31 foot second hand boat They set sail from the USA and ended up doing a roundish trip of over 31,000 miles!
They faced fair weather and extremely foul weather (typhoon season - very scary) . Waited endlessly for Wendy's dad to actually turn up on the right date for a rendezvous and to read her emails properly. They made friends all over the world and survived serious danger. Not only did they survive but so did their marriage because they both have a sense of humour.
My travelling days have been over for a long time but the urge to travel hasn't faded. This book has been a real pleasure to listen to, travelling the easy way - all the adventure without the risk. A wonderful, wonderful book for people like me who have never lost the urge to wander. Very highly recommended.
They faced fair weather and extremely foul weather (typhoon season - very scary) . Waited endlessly for Wendy's dad to actually turn up on the right date for a rendezvous and to read her emails properly. They made friends all over the world and survived serious danger. Not only did they survive but so did their marriage because they both have a sense of humour.
My travelling days have been over for a long time but the urge to travel hasn't faded. This book has been a real pleasure to listen to, travelling the easy way - all the adventure without the risk. A wonderful, wonderful book for people like me who have never lost the urge to wander. Very highly recommended.
August 22, 2020
One thing for sure: sailing around the world in a small boat is the last thing I would do for fun. In fact, after listening to this audio book, it seems to be just one big nightmare with everything decided by the weather and how your mode of transportation is behaving.
Anyhow, I really enjoyed Wendy Hinman's story. Even my husband seemed to enjoy it as he had no choice but to listen whenever he was nearby. Ha!
The narrator rose up to the challenge of doing so many different types of accents. I thought she did the Australian one particularly well and couldn't help but chuckle at her take of the Japanese ones. Her narrating helped keep me engrossed in the story as I cooked, cleaned and tackled pottering on my thankfully stable home that does not sway.
Thank you Netgalley and Salsa Press for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.
Anyhow, I really enjoyed Wendy Hinman's story. Even my husband seemed to enjoy it as he had no choice but to listen whenever he was nearby. Ha!
The narrator rose up to the challenge of doing so many different types of accents. I thought she did the Australian one particularly well and couldn't help but chuckle at her take of the Japanese ones. Her narrating helped keep me engrossed in the story as I cooked, cleaned and tackled pottering on my thankfully stable home that does not sway.
Thank you Netgalley and Salsa Press for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.
September 22, 2020
I'm giving the book three stars because it was good for the 3/4's of the book that I could listen to.
I received this book as an ARC from Netgalley to listen to on the Netgalley app, but unfortunately the file continually fails and kills off the app at the start of chapter 17.
As far as I listened, I enjoyed the tales of Wendy and Garth as they spent years cruising on the high seas in their small boat. Constantly watching their funds, they exist cheaply and make many repairs themselves as they go. They stay for months at a time in many places on their trip, meeting others living the same lifestyle, and working jobs as they wait for the cyclone season in that area to pass on by, before they move on.
They hear about 9/11 before they start their return home, and I'm disappointed I couldn't finish the book to learn of their perception of their home country on their return.
I received this book as an ARC from Netgalley to listen to on the Netgalley app, but unfortunately the file continually fails and kills off the app at the start of chapter 17.
As far as I listened, I enjoyed the tales of Wendy and Garth as they spent years cruising on the high seas in their small boat. Constantly watching their funds, they exist cheaply and make many repairs themselves as they go. They stay for months at a time in many places on their trip, meeting others living the same lifestyle, and working jobs as they wait for the cyclone season in that area to pass on by, before they move on.
They hear about 9/11 before they start their return home, and I'm disappointed I couldn't finish the book to learn of their perception of their home country on their return.
October 12, 2020
This narrator was great! She is expressive, has a good cadence and can even do the accents and dialects well.
The story itself is very interesting. It covers the Wendy and Garth's entire relationship, their fondness of sailing and increasing abilities and knowledge while living in Seattle and then during their 7 year circumnavigation.
I loved the insights into foreign lands and peoples that I will never have a chance to visit myself. Some of the anecdotes were very humorous while others were thought-provoking.
I will admit that occasionally the "sailing speak" , which regularly went over my head, would cause my eyes to gloss over, and I was glad that I was running and could still feel like I was being productive.
My only real complaints were the frequent political statements and jabs at the western world, in particular the US and its leaders.
The story itself is very interesting. It covers the Wendy and Garth's entire relationship, their fondness of sailing and increasing abilities and knowledge while living in Seattle and then during their 7 year circumnavigation.
I loved the insights into foreign lands and peoples that I will never have a chance to visit myself. Some of the anecdotes were very humorous while others were thought-provoking.
I will admit that occasionally the "sailing speak" , which regularly went over my head, would cause my eyes to gloss over, and I was glad that I was running and could still feel like I was being productive.
My only real complaints were the frequent political statements and jabs at the western world, in particular the US and its leaders.
December 10, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. I have been enjoying reading and listening to books about people who have lived a life on the high seas. This book was no exception. This one was different than others I have read though in that this couple spent more time on the seas than most than I have read about. This is a far fetched dream of mine that I know will never come true, so I'll continue to read and listen to others who have lived out my dream. While I enjoyed hearing their story, I didn't enjoy the narrator of this audiobook very much. I would have preferred that the author of the book read this, because I feel like we would have recieved a more genuine telling of the story. All in all, this was a good listen!
May 19, 2018
I’ve never sailed and have only been on a motorized boat a few times, and only once overnight. I always feel claustrophobic and bored. So many people love sailing and I have thought there must be something I’m missing. I love the wonder and peacefulness of backpacking and being lost in the wilderness. I thought that a book about a real boating adventure would give me a connection to sailing. Unfortunately, no. I could relate to some of the experiences but it sure seems like a lot of work for the rewards and I still can’t imagine spending extended time in a space so small. I guess that a sailor might be equally bored reading a “A Walk in the Woods”.
August 1, 2020
Did this book make me want to sell everything and buy a boat? No. But it was fun to hear the stories of a couple traveling by sailboat for years. The descriptions are such that the listener can visualize the setting and it was fun to learn about different ports and the good and bad at each. This is certainly a different way to live and not suited for everyone, but the stories are humorous which made for a good listen.
Thank you to Salsa Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Salsa Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 8, 2018
What a trip!
There was so much to like in this book. well written and lots of details about boats and the people that go blue water sailing. The descriptions of islands, native people's lifes and the history of those places along with WW II history is very illuminating. Hopefully they will sail again. Not boring at all.
There was so much to like in this book. well written and lots of details about boats and the people that go blue water sailing. The descriptions of islands, native people's lifes and the history of those places along with WW II history is very illuminating. Hopefully they will sail again. Not boring at all.
September 2, 2020
I dowloaded the arc copy but after chapter 16 it stopped. I tried reloading the app several times it still doesn't work so i can only give my opinion on what i was able to listen to. It was a good book. A lot of interesting parts about their trips to other parts of the world. Wish I could know how it ends but it is what it is.
September 4, 2020
5.5/10 Married couple, Wendy and Garth, set out on a sailing adventure that takes them to many different countries and lasts 7 years. Wendy recounts their adventures and encounters in this book.
I enjoyed the narration of the story. However, some parts felt a little slow and sometimes redundant. I think someone with more knowledge or interest in sailing would love it.
I enjoyed the narration of the story. However, some parts felt a little slow and sometimes redundant. I think someone with more knowledge or interest in sailing would love it.
July 16, 2020
Boater all of my life....inland. Really enjoyed Wendy's adventures and writing style. Would have given 5 stars if there had been more than one map. Knew of Hong Kong, Saipan, Hiroshima...but would liked to have been able to keep up with there many stops. Would recommend to others.
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