Leigh & Grant

Episode 27 – Setting up auto pilot and actuator

Episode 27

The working below deck that allows an auto pilot to work are complex. Grant and I took on this job ourselves and so we know what connects to where and we are confident that this will all work out well. Grant did most of the work and also most of the narrative, so those who … Read more

Episode 26 – Deck prep for painting

Episode 26

Juno Sailboat is getting closer to her world tour, and the deck prep for painting is well underway. This stage involves sanding, cleaning, and fairing to ensure a smooth, durable surface for the topcoat. Every inch of the deck is carefully inspected and primed, making sure it’s ready to handle the elements. Painting is just … Read more

Episode 25 – Painting Part 1

Episode 25

In this video, we tackle our biggest pre-departure project yet: painting our sailboat Juno to sail around the world. Feel the excitement and adventure as we give our trusty vessel a vibrant new coat of paint, transforming her from weather-worn to world-ready. Every brushstroke is fueled by our dream of circumnavigation, and the scent of … Read more

Episode 24: First sail

Episode 24

Sailboat Juno came to us as a bare deck, without any equipment above it, leaving us with the challenge of turning her into a fully functional sailing vessel. Over time, we carefully installed everything she needed, from winches and tracks to masts and sails. Both the standing and running rigging had to be fitted, transforming … Read more

Episode 23: StarLink

Episode 23

We recently received our Starlink satellite connection, and the setup was surprisingly quick and easy—it took us about 15 minutes from start to finish! With just a few simple steps, we were able to connect to the internet, thanks to Starlink’s user-friendly system. The dish, modem, and cables all came neatly packaged, and after positioning … Read more

Episode 22: Bending on the sails

Episode 22

We recently received our new sails from C Sails, a sailmaker based in South Africa, and were eager to get them installed on our yacht. The process of attaching sails to the rigging is known as “bending” the sails, and it’s more complex than it might seem. Each sail must be precisely fitted to ensure … Read more

Episode 21: The New 24V Battery Bank

Episode 21

Our original pair of 8D Lead Acid battery cells had reached the end of their lifespan and needed replacement. After considering the options, we decided to upgrade to AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries. These are a great choice for marine use since they are maintenance-free and don’t “off-gas,” which means no harmful fumes are released. … Read more

Episode 20: The Haul Out

Episode 20

The sailing ship Juno, owned by brothers Leigh and Grant, is embarking on an exciting world tour. Juno has already seen countless seas, but before setting sail for the next leg of their journey, Leigh and Grant decided to lift her out of the water for maintenance. The primary goal was to inspect the hull’s … Read more

Episode 19: Installing the first deck winch

episode 19

As the crew of the sailboat Juno prepares for their ambitious around-the-world tour, the first major task is installing the initial deck winch. This crucial piece of equipment is essential for handling sails and ensuring smooth sailing under various conditions. The team carefully selects the winch, ensuring it is robust enough to withstand the demands … Read more

Episode 18: Diving on Robs yacht

episode 18

@Sailjuno is an amazing friend and a true team player. Today, we teamed up to help out our marina neighbor by diving under his boat to scrape off the stubborn mussels and barnacles that had built up on his rudder. It was a tough job, but @Sailjuno made it a lot easier with their positive … Read more