Today I’m at least 35 miles offshore, powering down the rugged Washington coast, headed to points south some 1,100 miles from here.

My final day ashore was a flurry of last-minute provisions, equipment tuning, and nagging chores that an ocean passage has little patience for. Near the day’s end, I was attempting to photograph a sea lion cruising the harbor for a meal when I realized my own reflection was telling a different story.

The past few weeks of preparation for this trip have been trying. It’s a journey I’ve made twice before, and the challenge is always the same: managing the fear and responsibility that comes with piloting a dynamic coastline and covering such an extensive distance safely with family and crew aboard. To say that it’s not for the faint of heart would be an understatement. However, I have the skills, a capable vessel, and the confidence in my preparation. A good weather router doesn’t hurt either.

As I embarked earlier today, I carry with me the lessons of past journeys and the anticipation of new experiences. To adventures ahead and the stories waiting to be told.