We Answer Your Comments After Striking a Submerged Hazard in Alaska
In our last video, we shared how we struck a submerged hazard while navigating our sailboat in Southeast Alaska. This video is our response — answering your comments, questions, and critiques honestly.
After publishing “We Struck a Submerged Hazard in Alaska on our Sailboat,” we received a flood of thoughtful comments — from seasoned mariners to curious newcomers.
Instead of replying one-by-one, we decided to sit down and address them directly. In this video we talk about:
• What actually caused the grounding
• Navigating close to shore in Alaska
• Electronic charts vs raster charts
• Risk, judgment, and learning the hard way
• Why we still choose this lifestyle
We’re not here to pretend mistakes don’t happen. We’re here to share the reality of learning a boat, learning new waters, and owning our decisions — good and bad.
Thanks to everyone who commented respectfully, shared their own stories, and contributed to the conversation. This is why we love this community.
If you’re new here, welcome aboard.
If you’ve been around a while — thanks for sticking with us.
Drop your thoughts below, and as always: stay curious, stay humble, and stay safe out there.
-Audrey and Scott
Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome Aboard & Where We Are Right Now
02:30 – What Happened: Running Aground on a Submerged Hazard
05:30 – Taking Responsibility & Why We’re Talking About It
08:30 – Responding to the First Viewer Comments
12:00 – Navigating Close to Shore in Alaska
16:00 – Risk, Experience, and Personal Judgment on the Water
20:00 – Boat Damage, Scratches, and “Battle Scars”
24:00 – Reporting Hazards: Coast Guard, Charts, and Responsibility
28:30 – Electronic Charts vs Raster Charts (NavyOnyx Discussion)
33:00 – Currents, Logs, and Real-World Alaska Conditions
37:00 – Anchors, Ground Tackle, and Holding Power
42:00 – Careening, Repairs, and Maintenance Reality
46:30 – Learning This Boat While Living Aboard
50:30 – Viewer Stories, Humor, and Shared Sea Experience
55:00 – Lessons Learned & What Changes Going Forward
58:30 – Final Thoughts & Thanks to the Community