kap-good-hope

From Genoa to Procida: A Coastline in Motion

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 15:18:08 GMT

We cast off from Genoa with the coastline slowly sliding astern, the familiar outlines of the city giving way to open water. There’s a quiet sense of departure in those first miles—lines running free, sails settling, and the Ligurian Sea opening ahead of us.

Portofino is our first milestone, a short but beautiful hop along the coast. From there, the cliffs grow more dramatic as we continue to Portovenere and the edge of the Cinque Terre, where we pause between anchoring spots and small harbors, letting the rhythm of the coast set our pace. Each stop feels like a gradual unfolding of Italy—layer by layer, town by town, sea by sea.

As we turn south, the journey stretches wider. Elba welcomes us with clear water and sheltered bays, followed by Giglio, where the Tuscan islands begin to feel more remote. The mainland returns in long, steady passages to Civitavecchia and Nettuno, a transition into the quieter central coast and longer open crossings.

Then come the Pontine Islands—Palmarola, Ponza, Ventotene—raw and volcanic, rising straight from deep blue water. From here, the Mediterranean feels more elemental, more open, more alive.

Ischia greets us with green hills and warm harbor lights, and suddenly the journey shifts again. Capri appears like a landmark carved from stone, followed by Sorrento’s steep coastline and the unmistakable drama of the Amalfi Coast. Positano, Amalfi—names that feel almost unreal until you are moving through them, cliffs above and clear water below.

Finally, we arrive in Procida. Small, colorful, quiet. A soft landing after a long line of miles. It’s here we pause, leave the boat for the summer, and let the journey settle into memory.

What begins in Genoa becomes something much larger—days at sea, shifting horizons, and a coastline that never repeats itself the same way twice.

KAP Good Hope: Swordfish, St. Tropez & Stormy Nights

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 12:46:03 GMT

The last few days have been a perfect blend of adventure, discovery, and those unforgettable moments that make sailing truly special.

We began in Sanary-sur-Mer, where big little sister KAP Good Hope awaited us. After careful inspection and handover, we set off for our first taste of life aboard in Port de l’Île des Embiez. A couple of nights there gave us time to get to know our new home—testing her space, finding her rhythm, and enjoying mornings with coffee on deck.

From there, we cast off towards the beautiful Île de Porquerolles. Dropping anchor in a calm bay, we took our first swim off the boat, surrounded by turquoise waters and the quiet beauty of the island. That first leap into the sea was a milestone—our baptism into life with big sister.

Next came the sail eastward to St. Tropez—and what a sail it was! The highlight? Spotting a swordfish leap out of the water twice, right beside the boat. An epic, once-in-a-lifetime sight that left us stunned and grinning at our good fortune.

Our arrival in St. Tropez couldn’t have gone smoother. With a perfect docking, we stepped ashore into one of the Med’s most iconic ports. The town was buzzing—massive yachts, parties spilling into the streets, and people everywhere. St. Tropez is alive in every sense, a sharp contrast to the quiet anchorages of the days before.

The next morning, we set sail for the Îles de Lérins, just outside of Cannes. We found a beautiful anchorage beside a small castle on Île Sainte-Marguerite, the larger of the Lérins islands. Rain and thunderstorms rolled through the night, rocking us gently at anchor. But by morning the skies had cleared, the sun returned, and we swam ashore to wander the island’s paths.

And now, the adventure continues: today we’re on our way to Cap d’Ail/Monaco. Stay tuned—there’s plenty more to come as big little sister KAP Good Hope carries us further along this iconic coast.

��⛵✨

#KAPGoodHope #SailingAdventure #MediterraneanSailing #SailLife #YachtLife #BoatLife #TravelBySea #AdventureAwaits #Porquerolles #StTropez #IlesDeLerins #MonacoBound #SeaStories #CoastalEscape #EpicSailing #LifeAtSea #MediterraneanDreams

KAP Good Hope: Off to Sanary-sur-Mer

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 07:09:04 GMT

��✨ The adventure continues… this time on the Mediterranean!

We’re heading down to Sanary-sur-Mer, France, to meet the “big sister” of KAP Good Hope. She’s bigger, bolder, and built for the open waters of the Seven Seas. Our mission: take her on a maiden voyage under our watch, sailing east along the stunning coast to Genoa, Italy. ⛵��

Sanary-sur-Mer is pure charm—colorful facades, lively quays, and that perfect mix of Mediterranean flair and working harbor grit. Picture fishermen unloading their morning catch while cafés fill the air with the smell of fresh espresso and buttery croissants. ��☕

From there, we’ll glide past glimmering French Riviera bays, sneak a peek at Monaco’s glamour, and sail into the Ligurian coast of Italy. Genoa awaits—a city steeped in maritime history and the perfect first chapter for big sister’s logbook.

But this test sail comes with a twist: our favorite crew members, Rafi and Lola, won’t be on deck. Instead, they’re holding down the fort as Harbor Master in Chief and First Mate of Morale, keeping a watchful eye on little sister KAP Good Hope… and sneaking in a well-earned mini-vacation. ��☀️ We’ll miss their company, but little sister couldn’t be in better hands (or paws).

Every leg of this journey is a story—coastal cultures, fresh flavors, and the magic that only the sea can bring. We’ll be sharing photos, updates, and salty tales along the way.

Stay tuned: KAP Good Hope may be small, but she’s about to meet her big sister—and together, they’re ready for a brand-new chapter of sailing adventures! ��

🚨 Engine Trouble, Island Tows & A Windy Escape from Hven

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 10:46:27 GMT

They say sailing is equal parts adventure and unpredictability — and our last two days were a masterclass in both. What started as a calm crossing to Hven quickly turned into a test of patience, resourcefulness, and the kindness of fellow sailors.

�� Gilleleje to Hven: No Wind… and Then, No Engine

We set off from Gilleleje toward the tiny Swedish island of Hven, this time with zero wind, which meant a quiet (if uneventful) motor ride across the Øresund. That is… until our engine suddenly failed just as we were approaching the island.

Adrift and unsure of our next move, we were incredibly lucky to have a friend on the island who came to the rescue and towed us into the marina. It wasn’t an easy operation — harboring a boat without an engine takes serious coordination — but thanks to the support of some skilled sailors onshore, we managed to dock safely.

�� Plan B: When Repairs Don’t Go as Planned

Once we were tied up, we turned our attention to troubleshooting the engine. Despite our best efforts (and some help), things weren’t looking good mechanically. So we did what all seasoned sailors eventually learn to do: go with Plan B.

⛵ Sails Up, Spirits High: Hven to Rungsted

The next morning, the wind was strong, the sea was choppy, and rain was spitting down — but we had a mission: sail to Rungsted using only our sails.

With determination (and some trial and error), we tacked our way out of Hven and eventually found our heading. The sail was intense, but satisfying. When we neared Rungsted, we radioed ahead and received assistance to tow us into the marina and get safely docked.

It wasn’t our smoothest landing, but it was a success — and one we won’t soon forget.

�� Home Again, Tails Wagging

We left KAP Good Hope safely moored in Rungsted and made our way back home, salty, exhausted, and full of stories. The dogs, Rafi and Lola, are thrilled to have their land paws back — and so are we (for now).

Every sailing journey has its curveballs — this one just had a few more than usual. But with some help, quick thinking, and a little luck, we made it through.

Until next time! ⚓

#kapgoodhope #sailingadventure #enginetrouble #towrescue #hvenisland #rungstedhavn #sailinglife #dogsonboats #planBsailors

🌊 Headwinds, Music, and a Change in Course: Hornbæk to Gilleleje

Sat, 19 Jul 2025 20:25:40 GMT

The sea has a funny way of humbling you — just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, it throws a little wind in your face and reminds you who’s boss.

⛵ Hornbæk to Gilleleje: 5 Hours of Fight

We set off from Hornbæk with high hopes and calm minds, aiming for the nearby harbor town of Gilleleje. It’s not far on the map, but the wind had other plans. With strong headwinds and rough waters, we spent nearly five hours tacking back and forth, inching our way forward while constantly adjusting sails and keeping spirits high.

It was one of those days where sailing feels like both a workout and a test of patience — but KAP Good Hope held strong, and when we finally cruised into Gilleleje’s harbor, it felt like a true accomplishment.

�� Gilleleje: Music, Friends & Solid Ground

After that kind of sail, land felt especially sweet. We harbored for a couple of days and gave ourselves permission to just be. Gilleleje welcomed us with sunny skies, good food, and the kind of laid-back harbor charm that makes you want to stay a little longer than planned.

We caught up with friends and family, soaked in the vibe of the Musik i Lejet festival in Vejby — a seaside music celebration that brought life, dancing, and a bit of magic to the coast — and wandered through the town’s streets, cafes, and quiet corners.

It’s these kinds of moments, off the boat and on the ground, that remind us why we’re out here. The balance between sea and shore, movement and stillness.

�� A Change in the Return

As we look ahead to the next leg of our trip, we’ve decided to change course slightly on our way back: we're heading back to Hven. The island charmed us the first time around — and there's something about it that keeps calling us back. Maybe it’s the peaceful pace, maybe the views… or maybe we just really missed it.

The journey continues. With each harbor and horizon, we’re learning more about the sea, the boat, and ourselves.

Thanks for sailing along with us. ��

#kapgoodhope #sailingadventure #gilleleje #hornbæk #musikiljelet #lifeatsea #tackinglife #sailingdenmark

⚓ From Hven to Helsingør: Smooth Sailing, Sunset Feasts & Royal Views

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 20:40:56 GMT

Our sailing adventure continues — and the last two days have been filled with wind in our sails, unforgettable food, and postcard-perfect views on both the Swedish and Danish sides of the Øresund.

⛵ Hven to Helsingborg: Sails Up, Spirits High

We left the dreamy island of Hven on a high — the kind only good neighbors and great seafood can give you. (More on that in a minute.)

The sail from Hven to Helsingborg was pure magic. For the first time on this trip, the wind was exactly what we needed. The sails were up, the engine stayed off, and KAP Good Hope soared across the water, reaching 7.4 knots — our fastest yet! There's nothing quite like the sound of the hull cutting through the sea under full sail.

We arrived in Helsingborg glowing with that "we actually know what we’re doing" kind of energy and quickly went exploring by foot. It’s a vibrant coastal city with a lively harbor, cobblestone streets, and, fun fact: home to the global headquarters of IKEA. (Sadly, no meatballs were consumed.)

�� Dinner to Remember: Sillen & Makrillen

Before leaving Hven, a lovely couple docked next to us recommended we book dinner at Sillen & Makrillen in Helsingborg. We’re so glad we listened.

Perched right on the water’s edge, the restaurant served up an unforgettable seafood feast — delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and a sunset that felt like it was put on just for us. Easily one of the best meals of our trip so far. If you’re ever in Helsingborg, go. Just go.

�� Back to Denmark: Hello Helsingør

This morning, we crossed back to the Danish side and docked in Helsingør, best known for the magnificent Kronborg Castle — the real-life setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. While the wind didn’t cooperate today (barely a whisper), the sunshine made up for it with blue skies and sparkling seas.

The dogs were thrilled to be on land again (as usual), and we spent the afternoon wandering the harbor and admiring the castle from every angle. It’s hard not to feel a little royal when you’ve got a Renaissance fortress watching over you.

Tomorrow, we sail up the coast to Hornbæk, chasing more coastal beauty, salty breezes, and maybe a little more wind.

Until then, thanks for sailing along with us.

#kapgoodhope #sailingadventure #helsingborg #helsingør #cronborgcastle #lifeatsea #seafoodsunset #sailingdenmark #dogsonboats

🌧️ From Copenhagen to Sweden: Our First Two Days at Sea

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 15:18:26 GMT

We’ve officially cast off! After all the prep, packing, and bubbly-filled blessings, KAP Good Hope finally left Christianshavn and began her journey up the Danish coast — with us (and two slightly skeptical dogs) aboard.

�� Day 1: Christianshavn to Rungsted Havn

We waved goodbye to the canals of Copenhagen under a soft gray sky, full of excitement and caffeine. The sail north was… how should we put it? Very wet.

The rain came in waves — sometimes misty and gentle, sometimes dramatic and horizontal. But even soaked through, there was something magical about cutting through the Øresund with the city fading behind us and nothing ahead but sea and possibility.

By late afternoon, we pulled into Rungsted Havn, the charming harbor town that was once home to the iconic author Karen Blixen. The marina was small and cozy, lined with adorable shops and restaurants that made us want to linger (and dry off).

And Rafi and Lola? Overjoyed. After hours at sea, they pranced onto dry land like they’d just discovered Earth. Soggy paws, wagging tails, and that unmistakable “we’re not sure we like this boat life yet” look in their eyes.

�� Day 2: Off to Hven, Sweden

The next morning, after some strong coffee and a quick stretch of the legs (and paws), we untied the lines and set our course across the water to Hven, a tiny Swedish island known for its rolling hills, bikes-only lifestyle, and one very famous resident: Tycho Brahe, the Renaissance astronomer who once called this beautiful place home.

The crossing was smooth, and as we pulled into the picture-perfect harbor, we were greeted by pastel cottages, lush greenery, and a calm that made it feel like time slowed down.

We spent the afternoon exploring — winding footpaths, tiny shops, and views that looked like they belonged in a fairytale. Hven may be small, but it’s full of charm, history, and that quiet kind of magic that reminds you why you’re out here in the first place.

Two days down, countless more to go. We’re still finding our rhythm, but already we’ve laughed, gotten drenched, dried off, and fallen just a little more in love with life at sea.

Next stop: Helsingborg, Sweden — stay tuned.

#kapgoodhope #sailingdenmark #venisland #rungstedhavn #lifeatsea #dogsonboats

🚤 The Day Before the Adventure Begins

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 06:15:51 GMT

Yesterday was all about getting the boat ready for our sail — and it was everything we hoped it would be: a little chaotic, a little sparkly, and filled with love, laughter, and a touch of champagne.

After months of planning and dreaming, it finally felt real. The weather was perfect — sunny but breezy, like Denmark was giving us its quiet blessing.

�� Supplies, Snacks & Sailing Gear

The day started early with supply runs. Think: last-minute cables, boat snacks, sunscreen (so much sunscreen), a suspicious number of cheese blocks, and just enough coffee to caffeinate a small village. Everything had to be packed in its rightful place on KAP Good Hope, which now feels less like a boat and more like our cozy floating apartment.

�� Matching Sailing Outfits? Absolutely.

Let’s be honest, no adventure is complete without matching sailing outfits. We may not be the most seasoned sailors on the sea, but we will be the best dressed. Coordinated stripes, windbreakers, and the kind of boat shoes that scream “we mean business, but we also sip rosé.”

�� A Proper Christening

Before we set sail, KAP Good Hope had to be officially christened. We gathered on the dock with a small circle of close friends, a bottle of bubbly, and our honorary crew members — Rafi and Lola, both nervously pacing the deck with wide eyes and twitching tails, clearly unsure about this whole sailing business.

Glasses clinked. The champagne flowed (on deck and into the sea — for Poseidon, of course). We gave a toast to safe journeys, strong winds, and all the stories that haven’t been written yet. It was the kind of moment that makes you pause — the good kind. The “we’re really doing this” kind.

�� Next Stop: Open Waters

So now she’s christened, provisioned, and ready to go. And so are we.

Tomorrow we set sail. But yesterday — that was the beginning of everything.

—

Follow along as we chart our course around Denmark — one harbor, one wave, and one happy mess at a time.

��Next stop: Rungsted.

#kapgoodhope #sailinglife #denmarkbysea #boatlife #sailingadventure

Welcome Aboard KAP Good Hope

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 18:48:45 GMT

Hi there — and welcome to the KAP Good Hope blog! We're so glad you've found your way here.

We’re Thomas and Michelle, a couple who traded the usual pace of summer for something a little more adventurous: a sailing journey around Denmark aboard our sailboat, KAP Good Hope, with our two salty sidekicks, Rafi and Lola (our very enthusiastic dogs).

Why We're Sailing

For Thomas, sailing is more than a hobby — it’s a deep-rooted passion fueled by a love of adventure, the open sea, and the freedom that comes with following the wind. Michelle brings the curiosity, the creative spirit, and the snacks (always the snacks). Together, we dreamed up a plan to spend the summer exploring Denmark’s islands, coasts, and hidden harbors — and now, we’re doing it.

What You'll Find Here

We created this site to share our journey:

Stories from sea and shore
Photos of breathtaking views and charming marinas
Tips for sailing around Denmark
And of course, updates on Rafi and Lola’s adventures (they’ve already claimed favorite nap spots on deck).

Whether you're a fellow sailor, a dreamer of coastal escapes, or just curious about life aboard a sailboat — we hope you’ll feel at home here.

What's Ahead

Our summer route will take us through Denmark’s beautiful archipelagos, from well-known sailing towns to tucked-away gems only reachable by boat. We’re taking it slow, soaking in the magic of each port, and letting the journey unfold one anchorage at a time.

Thanks for joining us on this adventure. Raise a glass (or a compass) — and let’s see where the wind takes us.

– Thomas & Michelle, KAP Good Hope