Welcome to Atlantic Wind: A Journey of Boatbuilding, Solo Sailing, and Honoring Portuguese Explorers

Welcome to Atlantic Wind—where I’m embarking on a journey that blends craftsmanship, adventure, and history. My goal is to build my own Class Globe 5.80 yacht from scratch, master the art of single-handed ocean sailing, and ultimately retrace the legendary Volta do Mar, the ancient navigation route discovered by my brave Portuguese ancestors. This project is more than just about creating a boat—it’s about honoring centuries of maritime tradition, pushing personal boundaries, and embracing the thrill of the open sea. As I document every step of this process, I hope to inspire others to chase their own dreams, whether it’s building, sailing, or simply exploring the unknown.

The Class Globe 5.80 is an incredible sailboat designed to be built by a single person, yet it's fully capable of taking on blue water adventures. Despite its small size, several sailors have already crossed the Atlantic in it, and there's even a dedicated around-the-world regatta underway. What really sets this class apart is its strong focus on safety and its well-organized community, offering a supportive network for builders and sailors alike. For those who have the time, patience, and passion for building, the Class Globe 5.80 offers an affordable way to own a blue water yacht and take on ocean sailing.

This blog aims to document every step of constructing the "Atlantic Wind," providing detailed guides, insights, and resources. By sharing this process, I hope to assist and inspire others interested in building their own Class Globe 5.80, fostering a community of builders and sailors.

Beyond building, I am committed to gaining firsthand experience in single-handed ocean sailing. This endeavor will deepen my understanding of maritime skills, safety protocols, and the profound solitude of the open sea.

The ultimate goal is to sail the "Volta do Mar" route—a navigational technique perfected by Portuguese sailors in the 15th century. This route involves sailing from Lisbon to Madeira, then the Azores, and returning to Lisbon, harnessing the North Atlantic Gyre's wind patterns.

I invite you to follow this blog as I embark on this multifaceted voyage—building a vessel, mastering solo sailing, and honoring the rich heritage of Portuguese exploration. Together, let's set sail into the winds of history and discovery.