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Come Sail With Me
The woman who took a chance
At 42 and living alone in Spain, Wendy's life really did begin again when she unexpectedly received an offer to sail to Brazil, from a man she barely knew.
Wendy takes us with her as she gives up everything to take on the challenge of, not only sailing this unconventional route, but to also do it just 2 up on Rory's 42" Ocean Racing Yacht.
Even Wendy, an experienced sailor, is shocked at how different each leg of their eventual 13,500-mile Atlantic voyage is, from being spellbound by the magnificent sea life to petrified by the elements and not forgetting the myriad of bizarre incidents in between. The only constant being that sailing a demanding yacht short-handed tested their resilience and endurance to beyond the limit.
Landfall also brought a whole new array of experiences, as they made Zingara their home in a variety of vibrant but deadly cities and remote anchorages including spending 3 months in the Amazon Rainforest.
A once-in-a-lifetime adventure like this could expose them to hurricanes, piracy, and dismasting but, surely, they wouldn't have to survive all three?
At 42 and living alone in Spain, Wendy's life really did begin again when she unexpectedly received an offer to sail to Brazil, from a man she barely knew.
Wendy takes us with her as she gives up everything to take on the challenge of, not only sailing this unconventional route, but to also do it just 2 up on Rory's 42" Ocean Racing Yacht.
Even Wendy, an experienced sailor, is shocked at how different each leg of their eventual 13,500-mile Atlantic voyage is, from being spellbound by the magnificent sea life to petrified by the elements and not forgetting the myriad of bizarre incidents in between. The only constant being that sailing a demanding yacht short-handed tested their resilience and endurance to beyond the limit.
Landfall also brought a whole new array of experiences, as they made Zingara their home in a variety of vibrant but deadly cities and remote anchorages including spending 3 months in the Amazon Rainforest.
A once-in-a-lifetime adventure like this could expose them to hurricanes, piracy, and dismasting but, surely, they wouldn't have to survive all three?
- GenresTravelNonfiction
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2021
125 people are currently reading
599 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Leo-Smith
1 book12 followersBorn in 1963, in Sidmouth, Devon. Wendy spent her childhood on the family farm with a menagerie of animals. She did not venture abroad until her twenties, since the 24/7 demands of dairy farming left no time for family holidays.
Tragically widowed at 27, changed her perspective on life, and she started to dream of sailing around the world, although she had never been on a yacht. Wendy impulsively bought Nimbus, a Caribe 45, spending the next five years learning the ropes Cruising along the idyllic south-western coast, Channel Islands and Brittany.
As Wendy's passion for sailing intensified, her 20 year banking career stagnated. In 2001 she relocated to the South of Spain to set up a yacht management company with her husband. Four years later, their 10 year marriage came to a messy end, leaving her determined to make it alone on the Costa Del Sol.
In 2005, an irresistible offer came to sail a performance racing yacht to Brazil, with just the owner, Rory. She packed her entire life into one hold-all, and had five exceptionally eventful years cruising 13,500-miles round the Atlantic. In 2018 Wendy took on a new challenge, yet again out of character, to write "Come Sail With Me" a true account of her travels.
Wendy now lives with Rory, their dog Boza and Bobbie the cat in the South of Spain. Zingara and travel remain an integral part of their lives. Her other hobbies are touring, motorbikes, cycling and knitting
Tragically widowed at 27, changed her perspective on life, and she started to dream of sailing around the world, although she had never been on a yacht. Wendy impulsively bought Nimbus, a Caribe 45, spending the next five years learning the ropes Cruising along the idyllic south-western coast, Channel Islands and Brittany.
As Wendy's passion for sailing intensified, her 20 year banking career stagnated. In 2001 she relocated to the South of Spain to set up a yacht management company with her husband. Four years later, their 10 year marriage came to a messy end, leaving her determined to make it alone on the Costa Del Sol.
In 2005, an irresistible offer came to sail a performance racing yacht to Brazil, with just the owner, Rory. She packed her entire life into one hold-all, and had five exceptionally eventful years cruising 13,500-miles round the Atlantic. In 2018 Wendy took on a new challenge, yet again out of character, to write "Come Sail With Me" a true account of her travels.
Wendy now lives with Rory, their dog Boza and Bobbie the cat in the South of Spain. Zingara and travel remain an integral part of their lives. Her other hobbies are touring, motorbikes, cycling and knitting
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 20, 2025
Interesting life story filled with adventures. I appreciated the table of contents and the organization into 16 chapters. The glossary of nautical terms can be helpful for those unfamiliar with the vocabulary of a seafarer.
July 17, 2022
Can you imagine sailing over 13,000 miles with only two people on a yacht?
I sometimes wonder what it would be like to pack my bags and leave home for a few years, but I haven’t done that yet as Wendy Leo-Smith has. There’s never a dull moment in Come Sail With Me. Whether facing killer bees, getting the yacht stuck on a sandbank, or fighting life-threatening storms at sea, you will be on the edge of your seat.
I struggled with all the sailing terminology and lessons learned, but I loved experiencing Africa, Brazil, and the many other places I visited from the comfort of my couch. In addition, I had a front-row seat to see whales bigger than the yacht.
If you dream of sailing, want to learn to sail or simply want to visit a few places without sailing 13,000 miles, hop on the Zingara with Wendy by purchasing a copy of Come Sail With Me.
I sometimes wonder what it would be like to pack my bags and leave home for a few years, but I haven’t done that yet as Wendy Leo-Smith has. There’s never a dull moment in Come Sail With Me. Whether facing killer bees, getting the yacht stuck on a sandbank, or fighting life-threatening storms at sea, you will be on the edge of your seat.
I struggled with all the sailing terminology and lessons learned, but I loved experiencing Africa, Brazil, and the many other places I visited from the comfort of my couch. In addition, I had a front-row seat to see whales bigger than the yacht.
If you dream of sailing, want to learn to sail or simply want to visit a few places without sailing 13,000 miles, hop on the Zingara with Wendy by purchasing a copy of Come Sail With Me.
July 2, 2022
I’m going to say upfront that I love sailing memoirs. I think I have an awful fascination for them as I would never ever want to do it myself, but I enjoy reading about other people’s sailing journeys. Hats off to Wendy Leo Smith for embarking on this amazing adventure. The book is really a publication of her diaries, interspersed with memories from the past, so sometimes it feels as if the daily entries lack a narrative flow and are quite unpolished, but that didn’t matter to me. I liked the ‘in the moment’ feel of reading her daily thoughts and experiences, the blossoming (and occasional withering) of her relationship, and her exhilaration (and fears) about sailing the great oceans. There were plenty of highs, a number of lows and some pretty frightening occasions as well. There were also plenty of adventures on land to give the reader a sense of a travel memoir. Altogether an absorbing read and another confirmation I wouldn’t want to go sailing myself, but I so admire Wendy Leo Smith and all the others who do :)
January 7, 2025
I have to give this five stars as it is my story however, “Come Sail With Me” has been a compulsive read for many, from young mums to great grandads, although I wrote it with the wannabe sailor in mind. My motivation was that I would have loved such a book when I was learning to sail, and dreaming of sailing off over the horizon.
Being a true story, written as it unfolded, each chapter is a new adventure either on the open ocean or in some distant exotic country. At times, I am embarrassed to admit to the amount of humorous and precarious situations that we got ourselves in to. And, mother nature also dealt out her fair share of extraordinary experiences from the breathtaking to the down right petrifying.
I hope you enjoy this little piece of me.
Being a true story, written as it unfolded, each chapter is a new adventure either on the open ocean or in some distant exotic country. At times, I am embarrassed to admit to the amount of humorous and precarious situations that we got ourselves in to. And, mother nature also dealt out her fair share of extraordinary experiences from the breathtaking to the down right petrifying.
I hope you enjoy this little piece of me.
March 29, 2023
This memoir-travelogue was absolutely captivating. Written in the format of a diary but with some background stories from earlier life events that pull the reader right into the lives of this yachting couple. I sat with my laptop beside me as I read and I "Googled" maps, photos and street view to my heart's content. Thank you for the trip !!!! I think adding to my enjoyment was the fact that I grew up in Durban South Africa, before moving to Canada 25 years ago so their trips to visit Rory's family brought back memories for me, especially their time in Hillcrest as I lived in that area for many years.
I am amazed at how much maintenance is required to keep a yacht in good "health" and the bravery and hard work involved in such sailing. The descriptions of the breathtaking beauty of the ocean, starry night skies, the amazing wildlife and frightening and dangerous storms and much, much more made this an unputdownable read.
I am amazed at how much maintenance is required to keep a yacht in good "health" and the bravery and hard work involved in such sailing. The descriptions of the breathtaking beauty of the ocean, starry night skies, the amazing wildlife and frightening and dangerous storms and much, much more made this an unputdownable read.
September 26, 2023
A great story that I enjoyed reading about the life and love of sailing.
March 10, 2025
Excellent read
I have read a fair number of this genre of book over the years and this one is right up there with the best.
The story is fast moving and captivating. Often these sailing odysseys can seem like someone editing the log book but Wendy weaves their hugely rich and captivating adventures into a gripping storyline.
She is very self effacing too and it is sometimes difficult to believe she is a west country farmer’s daughter and not someone brought up with salt water in the veins.
I also really appreciated her candid insights in their personal lives, which is always very much part of the story but would have been easy to skip over. I love the way she alludes to fiery arguments which flare up and then seem to peter out with a good dinner or new adventure.
In their own ways they both come out of the story as very tough and résiliant characters somehow managing and overcoming incredibly challenging situations, which if you are not a sailor you can’t even begin to imagine.
I enjoyed it so much I found it very difficult to put down and read it through in a couple of sessions.
If I had to make a criticism, which in no way detracts from the enjoyment of the book, I found the last chapter very confusing. They seemed to be skitting all over the place and it is not clear what they are doing, why and what was the plan. It would have been nice to know if they settled somewhere, got married, anything that just ties it all together for us the reader who has been with them throughout this extraordinary adventure.
That having been said I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
I have read a fair number of this genre of book over the years and this one is right up there with the best.
The story is fast moving and captivating. Often these sailing odysseys can seem like someone editing the log book but Wendy weaves their hugely rich and captivating adventures into a gripping storyline.
She is very self effacing too and it is sometimes difficult to believe she is a west country farmer’s daughter and not someone brought up with salt water in the veins.
I also really appreciated her candid insights in their personal lives, which is always very much part of the story but would have been easy to skip over. I love the way she alludes to fiery arguments which flare up and then seem to peter out with a good dinner or new adventure.
In their own ways they both come out of the story as very tough and résiliant characters somehow managing and overcoming incredibly challenging situations, which if you are not a sailor you can’t even begin to imagine.
I enjoyed it so much I found it very difficult to put down and read it through in a couple of sessions.
If I had to make a criticism, which in no way detracts from the enjoyment of the book, I found the last chapter very confusing. They seemed to be skitting all over the place and it is not clear what they are doing, why and what was the plan. It would have been nice to know if they settled somewhere, got married, anything that just ties it all together for us the reader who has been with them throughout this extraordinary adventure.
That having been said I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
May 26, 2022
First let me say I'm not a sailor. I get seasick in the harbor. But I love sailing books. This was a joy: sailing across the Atlantic Ocean with a man she barely knows, Wendy's diary style book is a delight. She doesn't pull any punches; the joys and the arguments all make their way into this entertaining book. I enjoyed the tales of sailing, but there's a lot of on shore travel too, and Bella the stray kitten is a delight. Definitely recommended for anyone who loves boats, and armchair travelers too.
June 23, 2022
sailors
The book was interesting for the first 3/4 but then I had a hard time continuing on. A lot of interesting information on different places and so glad they are safe thru all the storms and the dangerous places they stopped. Glad that they are still together after all these years.
The book was interesting for the first 3/4 but then I had a hard time continuing on. A lot of interesting information on different places and so glad they are safe thru all the storms and the dangerous places they stopped. Glad that they are still together after all these years.
January 28, 2025
AMAZING INSIGHT INTO A GREAT SAIL
Wendy writes an outstanding insight into her personal challenges in taking on an epic adventure. The descriptions of Atlantic crossings, South America and Caribbean give a clear picture of the highs and lows of two handed long distance yacht cruising. A great read.
Wendy writes an outstanding insight into her personal challenges in taking on an epic adventure. The descriptions of Atlantic crossings, South America and Caribbean give a clear picture of the highs and lows of two handed long distance yacht cruising. A great read.
May 21, 2022
It was OK
A fairly typical tale with no surprises. Two main things to point out: Typos galore. The book is in need of some serious proofreading. Next…very tone deaf. Read it and you will quickly see what I mean.
A fairly typical tale with no surprises. Two main things to point out: Typos galore. The book is in need of some serious proofreading. Next…very tone deaf. Read it and you will quickly see what I mean.
December 5, 2021
An amazing true story! I found it captivating in the way that it combined adventure with the development of a forever relationship.
I recommend it to sailors and non sailors alike!
I recommend it to sailors and non sailors alike!
October 26, 2023
amazing trip loved Bella
As an old sailor now I enjoyed every page except Bella’s passing so very sad, so real life like sailing is never boring nor was this book. Thank you
As an old sailor now I enjoyed every page except Bella’s passing so very sad, so real life like sailing is never boring nor was this book. Thank you
December 5, 2023
Enjoyed the excitement.
January 7, 2024
Felt like a log book more than an actual story. Amazing adventure, not a great writer though
May 31, 2023
In answer to the question that Wendy asks, I would- in theory- give up my life to sail across the seas with this couple, even though I only got to know them via this book.
Wendy writes in quite a refreshing style, no pomp or ceremony: but gives us the low-down on sailing, the perils you might face, but also the high life as well. I was amazed at how much breaks down routinely having made a transoceanic voyage myself. She manages to do this in an engaging way, the writing I mean, (not breaking things) but still keeps up useful information for the avid sailor. There's also a little African land-lubbing too, which I enjoyed.
I could see myself having a drink with this couple if I ever chance on them in a foreign port.
Bon Voyage Wendy!
Wendy writes in quite a refreshing style, no pomp or ceremony: but gives us the low-down on sailing, the perils you might face, but also the high life as well. I was amazed at how much breaks down routinely having made a transoceanic voyage myself. She manages to do this in an engaging way, the writing I mean, (not breaking things) but still keeps up useful information for the avid sailor. There's also a little African land-lubbing too, which I enjoyed.
I could see myself having a drink with this couple if I ever chance on them in a foreign port.
Bon Voyage Wendy!
February 19, 2022
Great and varied story....hard to follow at times.
Exciting story. I had the dual issues of not understanding British slang and this book needs an editor. Time shifts from present time of the voyage to many years previous with little to no segue. I got confused many times, but... I'm no whiz-bang brainiac...so maybe it's just me.
Her guy seems mighty narcissistic and sophomoric sometimes. Egotistical, too. But same for the author.
Interesting story, and if you don't mind the lack of editing.....it's worthwhile.
Exciting story. I had the dual issues of not understanding British slang and this book needs an editor. Time shifts from present time of the voyage to many years previous with little to no segue. I got confused many times, but... I'm no whiz-bang brainiac...so maybe it's just me.
Her guy seems mighty narcissistic and sophomoric sometimes. Egotistical, too. But same for the author.
Interesting story, and if you don't mind the lack of editing.....it's worthwhile.
February 21, 2022
An amazing true story! I found it captivating in the way that it combined adventure with the development of a forever relationship.
I recommend it to sailors and non sailors alike!
I recommend it to sailors and non sailors alike!
May 4, 2024
A Fascinating Read - Fun, Frights and Frustrations at Sea!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this sailing memoir, and my goodness me, I have never read a memoir that contains so much polarity of emotions! It was a roller-coaster of a read, from the highs to the lows - scary at times, and on tenterhooks not knowing what Zingara would face next. The reader accompanies Rory and Wendy in Zingara on a 13500 mile sailing expedition encompassing Brazil, the Amazon and the Caribbean, where the readers experiences the idyllic sailing pleasures in these countries. However at the opposite end of the spectrum, there are frights and frustrations with health issues, constant battles with equipment and electrical goods developing faults, the threat of piracy (having watched the film Captain Philips this is a very real danger!), and frequent danger of death as they encounter storms and unfamiliar places where police have loaded guns. As a reader, I felt all the tension when things went horribly wrong, and felt the relief when problems were solved. The strain and stress would put any relationship under pressure, but Wendy and Rory come through it all, at the same time each navigating personal family issues which interrupt their sailing at times.
I loved reading about all the places they visited, and the vivid descriptions brought by the author.
Written as a diary, the style is fresh and breezy. Wendy talks about all the people they know as if the reader knows them already, and although the book would benefit from some proof-reading, I found it rather added to the charm: as if the author is typing up the diary - it gives it a sense of urgency, especially the unusual use of tenses.
....and of course, Bella the cat added an extra layer of perspective!
Sailing is something I could never experience, so this has been a real treat to read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this sailing memoir, and my goodness me, I have never read a memoir that contains so much polarity of emotions! It was a roller-coaster of a read, from the highs to the lows - scary at times, and on tenterhooks not knowing what Zingara would face next. The reader accompanies Rory and Wendy in Zingara on a 13500 mile sailing expedition encompassing Brazil, the Amazon and the Caribbean, where the readers experiences the idyllic sailing pleasures in these countries. However at the opposite end of the spectrum, there are frights and frustrations with health issues, constant battles with equipment and electrical goods developing faults, the threat of piracy (having watched the film Captain Philips this is a very real danger!), and frequent danger of death as they encounter storms and unfamiliar places where police have loaded guns. As a reader, I felt all the tension when things went horribly wrong, and felt the relief when problems were solved. The strain and stress would put any relationship under pressure, but Wendy and Rory come through it all, at the same time each navigating personal family issues which interrupt their sailing at times.
I loved reading about all the places they visited, and the vivid descriptions brought by the author.
Written as a diary, the style is fresh and breezy. Wendy talks about all the people they know as if the reader knows them already, and although the book would benefit from some proof-reading, I found it rather added to the charm: as if the author is typing up the diary - it gives it a sense of urgency, especially the unusual use of tenses.
....and of course, Bella the cat added an extra layer of perspective!
Sailing is something I could never experience, so this has been a real treat to read.
August 3, 2024
"Come Sail With Me" by Wendy Leo-Smith is an enthralling memoir of adventure and resilience. At 42, Wendy embarks on a 13,500-mile voyage to Brazil with a man she barely knows, navigating Rory’s 42-foot Ocean Racing Yacht. Wendy’s experienced sailing is tested by the awe of sea life, terror of storms, and bizarre incidents. The book vividly portrays the demands of short-handed sailing and the challenges they face, from hurricanes to piracy. Their journey includes vibrant, dangerous cities and a three-month stay in the Amazon Rainforest. This memoir is a gripping, inspiring tale of courage and personal growth, capturing the transformative power of adventure and the human spirit's resilience.
October 29, 2021
“Wow! Just finished this amazing book and what a journey I’ve been on! Wendy’s writing captures every moment of this incredible journey so well that I feel I’ve travelled every wave and stepped off board and experienced so many wild and exciting places. The relationships are so heart wrenching and heart warming - this is a book I can guarantee you won’t want to end and when it inevitably does, you’ll want to read it all over again and recommend it to all your friends. “Come Sail with Me “ now there’s an invitation not to be missed!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews