If any specific car has a never-ending stream of problems, it’s called a lemon. The more cars we own over time, the higher the probability that one or more will have mechanical problems. Is it also possible, given the natural fraternity of boaters all seeking the same romantically refreshing and relaxing suntanned experiences, that new friendships and bonds will endure long after adventures are over? Possible part of the time? Practically none of the time? Choose the final answer once again.Īnd then there is the topic of odds, or probabilities. Do these images tell a true story? Are they not similar to those seen on TV advertising far-away locations and water parks and perfect people, perfectly dressed for their perfect fun and the enjoyment promised? Do these images represent reality part of the time? Practically none of the time?Ĭhoose the last answer, and you’ll be knocking on Truth’s door. Imagine relaxing with a refreshing drink after each satisfying few hours of delight on the water, perhaps sharing experiences with other boaters and planning your next day’s sun-blessed journey. Irony has its own, significant place in this story.īut first, think of 'sailing', and all the idyllic images the word evokes about visiting new and exciting places while enjoying sunny skies, refreshing free winds, crystal waters, aquatic life and gentle moonlight peeking between scudding clouds on balmy evenings.

The 'adventures' unfolding in the following pages are not only at odds with armchair-reader myths about cruising under sail in general, but examine the subject of odds-that ratio of numbers expressing the probability of an event happening to the probability of its not happening. Why worry about running out of money, three fiendish sailing companions, everything going wrong, impossibilities and nearly dying?Ĭould this be one of those books about a happily married couple with limited finances, romantically cruising aboard a beautiful ocean-sailing yacht after years of nose-to-the-grindstone work, sacrifice, irony and setbacks? Sorry, no dice, wrong story.

A true chronicle about a middle-aged couple pursuing their dream of living aboard an ocean-sailing yacht while savoring blue skies and crystal waters, sparkling beaches, romantic settings and glowing camaraderie afloat.

Sailing Uphill by Gerald W. Mills