You are totally correct in saying that it is not right for someone to board your boat no matter what the circumstances . I feel for you for going through this experience . Good on you for always having the mind and guts to keep yourself safe. Have an nice break !!!😘

Such a horrendous experience, in particular when a sailor is alone. Please, don’t feel any guilt for apologizing as a result of your reaction. You’re a strong woman who will overcome this. You did the right thing, locking yourself in. Thank goodness you are safe. Hopefully, Beryl hasn’t impacted you in the Bahamas and you are safe and the boat survived in Grenada.

In the Netherlands it's forbidden to board someones boat without asking permission, you can get arrested for doing that. It is rule nr. 1 in the sailors rulebook. So you're absolutely right to be upset about it. But nice docking by the way! Have a nice break!

Your safety is paramount, in your mind, and it should be in the mind of others. You are right to be upset with that man coming on your boat. The were other options that he had available, calling out to you and getting your attention. I am surprised that the other "girl" didn't understand that. You did the right thing. Your feelings of trepidation and anger are well founded.

I really like the idea of an alarm, siren and light, probably a flashing laser on a switch inside. Ok, enough said about that. If you haven't returned to St. Lucia yet there is a wonderful wall dive below the Pitons at Anse Chatenea Resort. I'd love to know if the coral is still beautiful. Haven't been back since the 80's. Best wishes Lauren.

I am with you on this! Get a very load alarm installed that you can trigger from inside , with one of those orange revolving lights fixed on the stern panel area. It should give them a fright and probably get them to get off.

As a Norwegian dude in my 50s, I had this exact same reaction almost 30 years ago. I inherited this mountain cabin that my father and grand-grandfather had built back in the 1960s. I was well into my 20s, having done my military education, I had grown up as a child in that cabin with my father, mother, sister, family visiting etc. I had spent weekends alone (or with friends) in it since I was 12, at times as a starting point for multi-day winter trips with tenting and mountaineering. In my 20s, studying geoscience after having travelled the world safely with my backpack I woke up from my dog growling. I could hear someone roaming quietly outside, and that thing roaming was neither moose nor reindeer nor lynx nor wolves. I reacted "objectively" to this "something" and discovered that two tourists had decided to break into the woodshed to find some firewood because they were cold. Thus everything was "fine" (just some kids being cold) - but also extremely "transgressive" at once. I invited them in for the fireplace for an hour. I cried too as the adrenalin rush faded off and I realised how unacceptable the situation had been later. I was literally shaking and I must confess I did ponder missing my service rifle for a while, not because of my own safety but to scare the living daylight out of ignorance of "visitors with good intention" You are a Viking, Lauren. Let me finish by saying something I learned from my grandmother as a child (I loved to go with her to my grandparents' mountain cabin). She would always shout "We are arriving" several hundred feet (or meters as we call distance) from the cabin. As a kid, I asked her why. She explained, "I hope that the "underground entities" (magical creatures) find use in the cabin when we do not use it, so it is polite to give them a heads-up when we arrive - to avoid embarrassing them by seeing them leave in a hurry". My grandmother would likewise shout out when emptying hot water into the ground after making the dishes to make sure they did not get burnt by it. I am an atheist, I still shout out to my cabin when I arrive, and I still shout out when pouring hot water into the ground, because it reminds me about the integrity of space. Had the kids shouted out "We are freezing, can we have some firewood?" or the man shouted out "A cat is drowning, can we borrow your paddle board?" neither of us would have ended up crying from feeling "invaded". Give your lovely ship a quiet "heads-up" when you two move back to it next time. I promise you (as a hard-core geophysicist without a spiritual bone in my body) that it feels rather lovely because you at least made your arrival known for your home. Your boat will "smile" back as the safe haven it is. Enjoy your time with family and friends, Viking.

Oh, I'm sorry about your space invasion! Didn't understand exactly what happened but I'm glad you're ok and safely home now!

SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR INCIDENT ! SO GLAD TO HEAR YOU ARE OK !

Those were some lovely aerial photos of your boat. That’s a beautiful sailboat. ⛵️

The only time I have "boarded" a boat without saying anything, is when we were rafted up four abreast on the docks, so we all had traffic over the cockpits, and expected it.

I get this problem on land, I rent a private vegetable garden (in the uk) and at various times of the year at night i get trespassers (kids looking for a place to drink, do drugs, homeless looking for a place to sleep, thefts etc) sometimes my greenhouses get smashed, sometimes i get garden tools stolen, sometimes things get burned. I have a camera now too like yours for footage, it still doesn't stop the acts. I would recommend having a sign made which says how you feel, that the boat is private, no one may board at any time without captain Mako's permission, anyone wishing to intrude/board may need kevlar, so on. And perhaps light that sign up with leds for nightime reading. Maybe invest in a ring doorbell or similar that does not need wifi.

You are very brave to single hand in the first place. So much can go wrong but you seem to handle yourself very well. I understand you being upset. All I can suggest is to have a plan to deal with a future similar situation. I admire your skills, hard work and independence.

I’m praying for the safety of the folks in the path of this new storm and for the safety for your beautiful boat.

You are very brave to do what you do, and I can see why it would be very upsetting to have a stranger board your boat in the middle of the night. Hopefully, that will never happen again. I am constantly amazed at how well you know your boat and how well you keep it in tip top shape. You are living a lot of people's dream, most who will never get to realize that dream. Keep the videos coming and have a great visit to the mainland.

Very sorry to hear that someone had such disregard for your space and property. I think about your safety always, and usually end my posts with that sentiment. I’m glad it was not a more dangerous experience. Love you. Stay safe. ❤️🙏

I like the song! While you were cleaning the barnacles off the boat and hosting it up good stuff Lol

Sorry to see such a hard time. Absolutely, your safety is first property. Wishing you stay safety place. Otherwise, let us all know what you need help.

Totally agree. That was completely out of line.

Here’s praying your boat is okay, my dear.

They cold have awakened you before attempting to board your boat🎉. Stay strong💪

Lauren please let us know how your boat is after the hurricane. Praying everything is ok. stay safe

Wow I can't imagine that. So sorry. I pray for you all the time.

Yes that was completely unsat of that guy to board your boat, no matter his reason. You were justifiably upset - hopefully a one-off experience for you.

So sorry you have had to coupe with this. Can understand how this is troublesome. Trust you can get over this, keep goging

Just glad that you are okay and very unprofessional of the security ow they handled it. Glad to see your spirit was joyful again when you left 😊 Goi g to miss you and can't wait for the next one ❤

So much experience you have gained rehearsing the same procedures till you refine and are comfortable with any situation. They say you should never put your body where your mind hasn’t been. That’s hard to contemplate and I would never walk out the front door were that the case. But you are through it and stronger for it and that’s all you can hope for. So grateful that you take the time to share all your experiences… All the best on your trip home and wish you, Mako (and your boat) well. 🙏👍🏝️

OMG So glad you'r ok.

It was being violated pure and simple. Your boat is your castle just like a home. Sorry you went through that scare Lauren.

You can actually hook the dead anchor as it passes behind the board and move quickly forward and tie it. But all this if there is no strong wind. It's best with one more person, but... Good luck!

There is a pretty easy way to do the back in mooring ball solo. You'll need a good mooring line 2-3 times the length of your boat, rig it to a cleat or winch close to you, run it up to the bow,then down the outer rail and back to you at the cockpit. Use a boat hook to grab the mooring ball and tie to it back past, Keep a eye on the slack and when you get near the dock,stall the boats movement and tie the stern, use the winch or motor to take up the slack of the bow line and temporarily cleat it near you. Then you can put on your stern lines and adjust your position then go forward and adjust/cleat the bow line. It all depends on the cross current but it's a pretty good way to tie up solo, also works for solo tieing to a mooring ball in rough weather then going forward to secure the heavy mooring lines.You where definitely a lot nicer than I would be to someone boarding my boat like that, I would probably put them in the mangroves next.

67yrs old New Zealander and rule #1 never never board any vessel without asking permission to board, absolutely don't blame you for being upset Lauren, my boat they would have been assed off very unceremoniously

Of all the places in the Caribbean sea right now your boat seems to be pretty protected from Hurricane Beryl which just jumped up to a Cat 4.

You are doing so well, with an engineer, you may do so much better! Much love to you Lauren ❤ Hopefully security arrested anyone that touched your awesome boat. Please don’t be so upset Lauren. Stay strong!

I feel the same Lauren, being alone where I live I would be pissed if someone tried coming into my place too! Be safe and thanks for the vids!

Recommend a can of wasp spray (actually sprays a stream ) works like bear spray but it’s legal to have. Just keep it by the where you enter and exit your boat.

I'm so sorry that happened to you. Maybe you need an alarm system that would blast a loud sound if anyone steps foot on your boat. Your safety should always be paramount.

Lauren - first off, I'm sorry you experienced that. How awful! I have read of quite a few sailors (single and double handed) who have used this approach: yelling out "our Smith & Wesson speaks alot better than we can" (note: there is NO S&W on board!) which is immediately followed by quick scrambling by the perp. What have you go to lose? You could also have in your repertoire: "smile pretty for camera!" May that never happen to you again, but, in the event it does, have a game plan for next time. -Darcee

Totally support you on this. I don’t own a boat, but I know the number 1 rule is stay off anyone’s boat. Period.

Excellent job of mooring, Lauren. But you could have asked Mako. His instructions would have been spot on. You are spot on Lauren. They violated you and your property. It's not okay at all! Some of the lowest of the low. Enjoy your time, Lauren.

Lauren, aparte de lo espectacular de tu manejo del barco, me afecto mucho verte llorar, creo que te vi llorar solo dos veces antes y me disgusta lo que te paso. Espero lo puedas dejar atrás con tanta cosas lindas que has vivido. Gracias por mostrar ese mal momento porque por lo menos para mi es mi principal preocupación. Cuidate siempre, un beso grande 😘 ❤️ 💙 💙

Have you ever tried to approach the mooring line backwards? I always do that when I'm out alone. Firstly, you can see the buoy clearly. You can stop precisely and have much more time for the maneuver because you're drifting directly towards it. It really works very well. Just try it out.

So sad. I wish you good time. I am sure mako will protect you. I hope so.

I sure hope your boat is in good hands at that marina but realistically there is very little that can be done in strong force 5. We are all waiting for good news anyway. God bless !!

I totally understand what you are saying, and you are right to say that they violated a private property. And the fear you can feel must be terrible. Just a couple of things: - it is not ok, but it was an emergency. I would not break into someone's house to save a cat on a tree, but maybe I would borrow some tool from their garden if it would make the difference between life and death. But i would ring first. 2 I have no ideas about those people, but sometimes people do not have enough knowledge to think that people sleep and live on those boats. Let me tell you my case. I live near a town on the sea, and people do not sleep on boats. They just park them there. Even here in Japan, I live in front of the seaside, many sail boats and fishermen boats are just parked. So what happened? Once I was in the UK, Birmingham, which has a part of the city with canals and touristic boats bring people around for tours. I was with a friend, and we were happy and singing walking across the canals, and I do not remember if me or her hopped on a boat for a few seconds. Plot twist, the lights turned on and we ran away. It was stupid, but we thought that those boats were like buses, just parked there, it never crossed our minds someone could be sleeping there. Must have not been nice for them as well. Now I would never do something like this. In this girl case, I would have been scared, then, less scared by seeing other women and people out there, so I could have assessed the situation better. But honestly, that guy could have first called you out, then saying aloud was he was doing. Also, having a woman not to scare you would have been better? He could have apologized, at least after seeing how shocked she was, maybe inviting her for a coffee to make it up, instead of not validating her feelings and just telling her to calm down. I am wondering if this was because people do not consider boats as houses, since not many people have boats, but they are still private properties. Anyway, happy it went well, now it is an experience that made her stronger. Also, I hoped they saved the cat.

Since you already have a water maker why not get a decent fresh water pump. HD sells NON IRON, COMPOSIT, shallow water well pumps that work great. Mine is 230 volt, 3/4 hp and only draws about 8 amps. 16" long X 6W X 7H Even has a pressure switch & gauge. One day I plan to add a back up 24 volt smaller one in the event generator is lost when not at the dock.

Even if he was working in good faith and with best intentions, he should have first taken permission if he knew that the boat owner (in this case Lauren) is aboard.❤💕🙏🙏💕❤

NEVER TELL SOMEONE TO CALM DOWN EVER,,,,, God bless you Lauren. You will be ok. Don't ever apologize for expressing your emotions to us ever.

Boarding boats without permission is a no no. You should’ve shown him your flare gun. Your story reminds me of Single hander Joshua Slocum, who famously sailed around the world way back when. When he felt he was in Pirate Waters, he would put tackle around his deck and cockpit. Sure enough one night he heard a yell and a big splash as I would be. Pirate got the message. Love your videos, Lauren. Fairwinds.

You're not wrong about that guy. I would have lost my temper. You should consider crew or maybe making friends with other cruisers that have similar travel plans that you can follow. Alarm systems will also help scare people away. Please be safe!!!

i CAN NOT EMPHASIZE how much i wish i were tthere to handle that for you! It ABSOLUTELY NOT OK for anyone for an reason to invade your space like that. so glad your ok

What a strange thing to do, to board someone's boat and not shout to ask for permission to borrow your paddleboard??! They must've thought it wasn't occupied. Sorry you had to experience that😢very scary

Hello, I have been following you for quite some time and I admire that a woman sails so alone, but also with dangers. You can avoid what happened to you, there are safety systems that hikers use to warn them when an animal is nearby. The system consists of a wire that you stretch around something, for example your campsite, and makes contact with a unit. As soon as the connection is broken, a kind of siren goes off, which then scares off intruders, search the internet for such systems. Kind regards from Belgium and keep up the good work. 🇧🇪🇧🇪👍👍👍💕💕

Lauren, you are a strong and brave woman. Cheer up !!!

These thieves look like a well established couple in their 50s, from their looks they could even sailors too. Who would do such a thing to someone from the sailing community? I am happy you were able to get beyond it, but I sincerely wish these idiots that stole from you that karma may get back at them sometime. They would deserve it. Keep going strong; what does not kill us makes us stronger every time! You are an inspiration, especially to me as a solo sailor colleague, although with way fewer miles on the belt than you. (I just started sailing in my mid-50s 4 years ago). ;-) Hug from Portugal, Frank

A weapon of just about any type down island (Bahamas excepted) is likely frowned on and frowned on hard. I'd suggest the usual alarms and the like, I'd also suggest a couple of cans of.... flying insect killer... the likes of Raid Yard Guard - or similar. Shoots a chemical out for a good distance and aimed at the face/eyes...temporary vision issues, stinging, etc. The last thing you want is to be arrested for using a possibly illegal weapon - even if fully legal in the US. Also a handy item to keep inside ones main entrance doors at home.... Be safe!

Lauren sorry I just watched your video late , I am definitely one those people who has been envious , but worried. I’m truly sorry it happened and I hope it doesn’t ever happen again. Be safe keep your wits about you. We’re all here for you!

Groovy episode. Sorry about your docking problems and the guy trying to help a cat jumping on you ship. That can be scary.

Thanks for your inspiration , I'm on the hard in Astoria Oregon, doing another phase of refit.. your boat looks great..

Most, if all boat owners would feel the same. Dude had no right to get onto your boat for something like that. It’s an intrusion to your home or space. If dragging or a fire yes. Great you had some footage of it. Makes me want to get a camera system. BRNKL maybe.

What a beautiful boat ❤

I too am a single handed sailor. I can absolutely appreciate how much work it is. You’re a bad ass! I have so much respect for you!

Don't worry, problems and obstacles come into a person's life to improve him. YOU ARE EQUAL WITH THE STARS THAT GUIDE THE SHIPS.

an old sensai oncee said, " your best defense is a quick offense". with that said you might think of being proactive ( if you already havent) and go through some scenarios, different mind sets, and some practice of self defense. close quarters, narrow areas on the boat kept in mind. bear spray comes to mind, tho not sure where you could get some. maybe play a recording of a shot gun cocking.....that sound crosses many languages. some joking aside, keep a calm mind, common sense is real important, and respect your gut instinct stay safe

Lauren, if I may suggest, please put a buoy on your stern when MED MOORING. God forbid you get a swell that pushes your sailboat into the dock. XO

Good job Capt.

Also, Years ago I picked up a stainless steel Mini 14 for my boat gun. Folding stock and lives in a locker held secure with an aluminum rod holder. Amo kept in vacuum sealed bags with the count marked on each bag to help with declaring when in the Bahamas. Only practice shot but better to have and never need then to need and not have. Also have a Simply Safe (brand) wireless home alarm with exterior siren, motion detector in salon, smoke detectors and water sensors in the bilge. Monitoring is available but obviously only when at home port. Also have kitty but she's not been aboard and motion detection can be turned off.

Thankful that you are safe after this frightening experience.

Hello Lauren. Glad your OK. No one has the right to come on your boat uninvited. Please don't get so upset. Some people do things with no respect or concern how it will effect others.. Im a solo sailer also. Come sail with me

Hey Lauren it's ok to cry after a scare like that. Having someone on your home is a similar feeling to being burgled and that's a horrible feeling of violation. I know this incident was a few weeks back. Enjoy the Bahamas, and see you again soon on here, back on Soul de la Mar, with happier stories and videos.

Sure hope your boat is safe from Beryl.

Hope you have everything secured for the upcoming Hurricane. Stay safe. Namaste

Captain Lauren, I can relate to this incident and your feelings I too am a female solo sailor and was at a marina were my boat was boarded. I had retired to the boat early that the evening, when I felt the all so familiar feeling of footsteps on the deck. I was terrified. I opened the companionway hatch. It was young guy trying to coax his girlfriend to join him in the cockpit for a romantic rendezvous. His eyes were as big saucers when I looked him in the face. "Permission to board" It is the same as knocking on the house door. Sorry this happened to you!

I watched this on You tube this morning on me TV. I was quite shocked that anyone would invade you property. Trespassing and theft (even though he put it back). So sorry Lauren, and I support your feelings. Oh it is now 9:18pm Friday, so it was around 14 hours ago that I saw it on me tv. Good Luck and pleasant sailing.

I'm sorry you went through that... that was not ok.

Glad you're okay.

Being alone, I would always lock the door while sleeping & I’d also be armed, too. Better to have it & not need it, then to need it & not have it. Safe travels to you & Mako!

Safe travels

Lauren..you are so so savy and intelligent. Wow. !!!

Even at 6'6" 355#, with a 5XL head a guy can year up😢

I admire you for the life you've made for yourself. I had apprehensions for you, when I first started watching, because I remember being your age and you live a totally different lifestyle to what I was living. The more I continued to follow your adventures, the more admiration I had for you as you always demonstrate such competence, sensibility and pragmatism. Experience breeds wisdom and you're far wiser than many of us were when we were your age. It is entirely natural to respond to the events as you have. You had a taxing day getting to dock and, no doubt, had a little anxiety considering you probably had a lot on your mind due to the time restrictions in harbouring up then leaving for a little while. All through life there are new situations to experience, good and bad, which make you bigger and better, metaphorically, as a result. Experiences can be emotionally large and they can also be extraordinarily subtle. In twenty years time you won't remember this message, but, right now you deserve to hold your head up high. You're an inspiration to many and, as long as this channel exists, you will continue to be forever more. Salute to you, Lauren. (and Mako 😉)

One word for you...Dockmate. Dockmate, for me, has made single-handed docking easy and very safe.

Thank you for sharing. I posted about having a camera on the mast to see every where around with docking.

Hi. I hope you are alright during this hurricane!!!

Stay safe! ❤❤❤

You need to get a pepper ball gun. Of get a paint ball gun and load it with pepper balls.

🎉🎉🎉 What a beautiful location 😊. Good to see Mako being happy 😃. It must be so refreshing to have help when you need it. I always look forward to watching your new videos. Again, That’s an absolutely beautiful location. I thought that you were traveling to the U. S. ? Is that happening later or did I just misunderstand you? Safe travels to you and Mako wherever you go. Blessings,Carlos ✝️🙏❤️😊🇺🇸 btw, you had every right to be scared when anyone walks onto your boat uninvited. Glad you were safe. Guess that you should keep that speargun next to your bed.

I am so sorry this happened to you. I can’t imagine how scary that must have been. I don’t understand how someone can think that’s okay. Not to mention having no fear of getting shot. Because that’s exactly what would’ve happened if it was me on my boat.

Brave soul..Sending u a virtual hug and ❤ from London

Girlfriend and I just went to the Bahamas and the locals were by far the biggest danger we faced!

Oh wow that’s not cool sorry that happened to you stay strong you got this!

Really enjoyed the clip and seeing how your manage your beautiful boat on your own. Regarding the unsolicited visitor incident, non-boaters don’t feel that a boat is a home, but rather a vehicle like a car. The guy seemed very innocent and was only seeking to protect your cat. He probably didn’t want to disturb you while you were sleeping. I absolutely understand your discomfort, but it was probably meant in a caring way. Putting up a no trust-passing sign on board while sleeping or whenever you feel its appropriate should solve the issue. Take care & enjoy your fascinating adventure!

Good job at a difficult mooring!

sorry that happened there are people who will help you to make you boat more safer and make you more aware perhaps a taser as this is the second time im aware of a scary predicament to what i know knowledge will go a long way to you feeling safer with yourself try not to give up your life seem full and rewarding plus ill miss your videos best wishes shayne 😀😀

there are many non leathal personal protection devices and vessel deterant electronics. The world is harsh and your a great person.

. much support for your sharing .

I'm a big guy and if someone broke into my home I would be upset and would not be OK with it.

Stock up on wasp spray, the ones that shoot 20feet, better than mace and legal to carry everywhere.

Hope your boat was spared from the carnage

I can’t imagine ever thinking it is okay to get on anyone’s boat for any reason without permission. I totally agree with you Lauren, and whoever says for you calm down is wrong for saying that. So sorry that happened.❤ to you and Mako, I am happy that you are safe.