SAILING ANIMA

CHASING DREAMS

Follow me on SV ANIMA as I sail “around the world” (hopefully soon)

Ahoy, I’m Paul – a German transplant officially calling Curaçao home, and this is the story of how I rescued an abandoned sailboat to chase my Caribbean sailing dreams.

Meet My Project Boat: A 1990 Gib Sea 402 Master

When I stumbled upon Bowalie in 2025, she was far from seaworthy—but her potential was undeniable. Despite years of neglect, I saw a diamond in the rough: a sturdy hull, a practical layout, and an interior begging for revival.

🌊 From Charter Workhorse to Forgotten Derelict

For years, Bowalie hosted day charters in Bonaire—until her owner vanished, leaving her stranded in a marina. Abandoned and decaying, she eventually wound up on a private pier, forgotten by everyone… until fate intervened.

🔧 The Rescue Mission

Through a twist of luck, I discovered Bowalie, negotiated a fair deal, and embarked on a crash course in “emergency boat repairs” just to sail her to Curaçao. Now, the real work begins: her full transformation into ANIMA (her new name, meaning “soul”—because every great boat deserves rebirth).

Join me as I:
✔ Battle corrosion, osmosis, and mystery repairs
✔ Document the highs (progress!) and lows (why is everything broken?)
✔ Work toward the ultimate goal: exploring the Caribbean in my self-restored floating home

Follow below for regular updates — this is going to be one heck of a ride!

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, or support me on Patreon

SV Bowalie - Paul
When the Ocean Says “Not Today”

When the Ocean Says “Not Today”

December 14th, 2025My Attempt to Sail from Curaçao to St. Martin Some departures feel different right from the start. I left Curaçao with optimism, good forecasts, and that familiar mix of excitement and respect that comes with any offshore passage. The plan was...

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Transforming My Neglected Sailboat

Transforming My Neglected Sailboat

December 7th, 2025All Upgrades, Costs & Lessons From a $23,000 Refit When I bought my sailboat, she wasn’t the pristine, polished cruiser you see in glossy magazines. She was tired, neglected, and full of hidden surprises. But she had good bones — and that was...

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Final Fixes Before Departure

Final Fixes Before Departure

November 30th, 2025Boat Life Preparations in Curaçao After months of repairs, upgrades, and unexpected delays, I’m finally getting closer to setting sail again. My Gibsea 402, built in 1990 and lovingly brought back from a neglected state, is almost ready for the next...

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