Rhonda is a Kiwi sailor and former van-lifer now cruising and adventuring full-time with her partner James on a small sailboat, and documenting the journey on YouTube.

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In this episode I talk with Rhonda about how she came to live on the water, cruising full-time with her new partner James with one of the best love stories you’ll hear!

Seven months ago, Rhonda sold everything, ditched land-life, and flew to Sydney to meet up with James and move aboard Triteia — a 30ft (9 meter) 1965 Alberg 30 sailboat. Rhonda’s now covered more than 1800NM cruising up the east coast of Australia, she’s visited 85 anchorages so far, and is currently preparing to sail to South East Asia, and onwards.

We talk about jumping in the deep end to start a new life on the ocean, all the while sharing the journey on YouTube with thousands of followers around the globe.

Rhonda also shares her experience fitting out her own van and solo-traveling for nine months exploring Aotearoa, New Zealand.

If you’ve ever thought about trying van life or dreamed of sailing the world, this episode is for you. Rhonda shares about the realities and personal challenges that come with cruising full-time and living in a tiny space but also her joys on the journey, and encouragement for anyone seeking a life less ordinary.

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Where to connect with Rhonda⁠

Instagram: @rhonda.of.triteia @love_grub_galley & @james.the.sailor.man
YouTube: @LoveGrubGalley & @SailorJames ⁠

Episode Notes | Rhonda

1:41 Meeting James & SV Triteia
10:45 Saying yes to staying
13:07 A big adjustment
16:16 Reality vs perception
16:49 An intro to 9m Triteia
18:36 Challenges of boat life
20:43 Cooking in a small space
21:26 Being adaptable & creative
24:45 Alternative living & vanlife
26:41 Kitting out the van
28:53 Van life vs boat life
31:33 Home on the ocean
34:55 Nature and travel
37:22 Sailing in NZ & overseas
43:40 Swimming with sharks
45:17 Proud moments
50:54 Learning styles
51:46 Working together
52:27 Imposter syndrome
56:14 Just give it a go

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