Embarking on a Mediterranean adventure aboard their Excess 14 catamaran Belle Lune, Kelley and Tony discovered the thrill of exploring new horizons and the joy of life at sea. Their journey was marked by unforgettable moments, breathtaking destinations, and the resilience of their Catamaran.

Highlights of the Journey

Sailing the English Channel twice and crossing the challenging Bay of Biscay were just the start of their epic voyage. One magical day along the Portuguese coast, they spotted an astounding nine blue whales—a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Navigating through Orca Alley into the Strait of Gibraltar brought its own sense of accomplishment, made even more special by meeting other Excess 14 owners from England, New Zealand, and Australia, as well as other cruisers.

Most Memorable Destination

For Tony, sailing past the iconic Needles of the Isle of Wight into The Solent and arriving in Southampton, his birthplace was a deeply personal highlight. Both were also captivated by the rugged beauty of the Portuguese coast and the charm of Cascais, Portugal

How Belle Lune Performed

Despite facing a very tough "shakedown," Belle Lune proved her mettle, performing outstandingly in challenging conditions. When you get the breeze, she can fly!” Tony enthuses. With her Pulse Line rig, Belle Lune showcased her ability to handle strong winds with ease, particularly along the Portuguese coast.

Favourite Aspects of Cruising on the Excess Catamaran

Kelley and Tony loved the seamless galley-to-cockpit design, perfect for entertaining, and the spacious owner's cabin. They appreciated the balance of comfort and performance, enjoying a catamaran that felt like home while delivering an exhilarating sailing experience.

Unexpected Adventures and Challenges

Every great adventure comes with its surprises. A "shakedown skipper" inadvertently placed them in a notoriously difficult Brittany channel, facing the tide and wind with a broken first reef. Yet, even in such moments, Kelley and Tony leaned on their resilience and Belle Lune’s capabilities.

Onboard Delights

Life at sea was punctuated by delicious meals and local flavours. Kelley and Tony savoured Atlantic prawns, French bread, cheeses, and red wine while in France, indulged in Brittany oysters and crab, and enjoyed tapas with cold Galicia beer in Spain. These moments of culinary delight added a layer of richness to their journey.

Lessons Learned

Every day on the water brought new insights. Tony learned the indispensable value of radar during night sailing, while Kelley embraced the mantra of letting go of stress and worry. Together, they understood the importance of preparation and adaptability, as even experienced sailors encounter challenges.

Advice for Fellow Sailors

For those dreaming of a similar journey, Kelley and Tony offered sage advice:

• Even an experienced skipper gets in wrong!
• Allow plenty of time for delays, minor repairs, and warranty issues.
• Research thoroughly and arm yourself with the best apps, such as Predict Wind, Windy, and Navily.
• Invest in headsets for talking and not yelling while docking or anchoring.
• Upgrade your boat before departure—it makes all the difference.
• Most importantly, take the leap—it’s a bucket-list adventure worth every moment!

Looking Ahead

With Belle Lune now fully commissioned and tidal seas behind them, Kelley and Tony are eagerly planning their next Mediterranean summer. They look forward to circumnavigating the Balearic Islands, exploring Southern France and Spain, and spending tranquil moments in secluded bays, watching the sun rise and set with a couple of sundowners in hand.

For Kelley and Tony, Belle Lune is more than a vessel—it’s a gateway to cherished memories and a lifestyle they’ll treasure forever.

Be sure to follow Belle Lune on Instagram to follow on more of their adventures! :)