FRASER'S LOG:
Life and Love at Sea

I’ve just completed my 15th ocean crossing in 10 years, and I’m feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle life again. There’s something about monitoring the weather and tracking progress across the vast North Atlantic that reminds me why I became a sailor in the first place: to chase the dream of circumnavigating the globe.

My grandfather, affectionately known as  “Gandi”, sparked this obsession with tales of his own trip around the world. My parents, ever supportive and resourceful took my brother and me to our first “Sailing School” in 2006 and we continued sailing and racing throughout our childhood in Zimbabwe on everything from optimists to 31ft cruisers throughout Southern Africa (how they afforded it during economic turmoil, I still don’t know).

Fast-forward to today, and I’m working aboard an 80m motor yacht. This June, we sailed from the USA to France, where my amazing girlfriend Kara awaited with a much-needed dose of land-based normalcy. We devoured delicious meals, snorkeled, and recharged before our summer itineraries tore us apart (thank goodness for WhatsApp and Starlink in the interim!).

At sea, reflection comes easily under starry skies and breathtaking sunsets. Amidst the chaos, I ponder my true north: combining sailing with giving back. Inspired by Eric deJong’s “Old Legs Tour,” I want to support Zimbabwe’s pensioners struggling to make ends meet.

Time waits for no one, and I’ve realized I have the power to help. So, my dream of circumnavigation has evolved into something bigger. Work keeps me busy, but thoughts of solo sailing and making a difference aren’t far behind.

The countdown begins. I’m grateful for my sea-faring career and can’t wait to set sail, alone and unassisted, tackling whatever comes next. The roaring 40s, here I come!”