Why is the COLOMBIAN MILITARY Protecting This ROCK 300 Miles Offshore?

Summary

Ben and Ashley, a sailing couple, embark on an adventure with their children, exploring the remote Malel Island off the Colombian coast. They document their journey across the Pacific, sharing experiences like fishing, cooking fresh tuna, and encountering marine life. Despite challenges, they embrace the rewards of family cruising, offering viewers a glimpse into their nomadic lifestyle and the beauty of unspoiled nature.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Malelo Island is a remote and hostile rock located hundreds of miles off the Colombian Coast.
• 🚢 Ben and Ashley are a couple on a sailing mission around the world, having visited 38 countries and covered over 40,000 nautical miles.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 They have welcomed two kids along the way, making their journey more challenging but rewarding.
• 🐠 They enjoy fishing and teach their children about catching, killing, and cleaning fish as part of their daily life at sea.
• 🗺️ They use Navionics as their main navigation service and download maps for safety and planning.
• 🚫 Malelo Island is a UNESCO heritage site under Colombian jurisdiction, with restricted access and no fishing allowed.
• 🔬 The island hosts a research station focused on studying the marine life, including sharks and other species.
• 🌊 They experienced rough seas and strong winds during their journey, but also periods of calm weather.
• 🎣 They caught a yellowfin tuna, which they prepared for a meal, demonstrating their self-sufficiency at sea.
• 📱 They use the AO app for mobile coverage when on shore, highlighting the importance of technology in their travels.
• 🌅 They appreciate the beauty of the ocean and the remote places they visit, while also acknowledging the risks involved in such adventures.

Q & A

What is the main destination of Ben and Ashley's sailing journey?

Their main destination is to sail around the world, with a specific mention of heading towards Malelo Island and French Polynesia.

How many nautical miles have Ben and Ashley sailed so far?

They have sailed over 40,000 nautical miles.

How many countries have Ben and Ashley visited during their journey?

They have visited 38 countries.

What is the current stage of Ben and Ashley's sailing adventure?

They are on their second lap around the world.

What challenges do Ben and Ashley face while cruising with kids?

Cruising with kids is harder, but it's rewarding and fun having them along for the ride.

What is the name of the boat that Ben and Ashley are sailing?

The name of their boat is 'Miletus'.

What is the purpose of their stop at Malelo Island?

They thought it would be a good idea to stop by Malelo Island as they make their way across the Pacific.

What kind of wildlife can be found around Malelo Island?

There are sharks, Rays, whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, and silky sharks around Malelo Island.

What is the status of Malelo Island in terms of protection and regulations?

Malelo Island is a UNESCO heritage site and belongs to Colombia. It is a regulated area, mainly for scientific research and diving.

What is the role of the research station on Malelo Island?

The research station on Malelo Island is focused on studying the waters, with a primary focus on the birds.

What advice did the researchers give Ben and Ashley regarding their visit to Malelo Island?

The researchers advised them to be respectful of the environment and not to engage in any fishing activities. They also warned them about the presence of big sharks in the area.