- Francesca and I are all smiles on deck of the Double X in Newport Marina. We’re eager for final testing to confirm the boat is ready for the year-long journey ahead. Newport Beach, Calif., November 7, 2015.
2016
Double-X Journey
In July 2016, we set sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, marking the start of our next great adventure aboard the Double X—named in honor of Nutrilite’s flagship product. This 78-foot sloop, with a colorful past of its own, had been carefully restored and reimagined for a new purpose. Read the story behind the vessel. (add link here) The majestic vessel would carry us across the South Pacific, retracing many of the same paths I took more than 40 years earlier during the Firebird journey. (add link here)
Our mission was clear: revisit these islands and communities to see firsthand how they’ve changed over the decades, and to learn what people today are doing to prioritize sustainable living and protect our planet’s precious resources.
Throughout the journey, I shared blog updates, favorite photos, videos, and our travel map. And while the voyage was cut short due to unforeseen challenges, the experience had a profound effect on me. It reaffirmed what I’ve long believed: empowering people to take action, for their health, their communities, and the planet, is more important than ever.
Trace the Journey
Our plan: To revisit many locations in the South Pacific that Captain Bob and I visited during the Firebird journey some 40 years ago and report back on the changes we have seen occur as well as the innovative things people are doing to take care of our planet and truly make it our home.
You can check out key ports and anchorages on the map below.
Key Ports & Anchorages
| Location | |
|---|---|
| 1 | Newport Beach, United States |
| 2 | San Francisco, United States |
| 3 | Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia |
| 4 | Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia |
| 5 | Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia |
| 6 | Tuamotus Islands, French Polynesia |
| 7 | Tuamotus Islands, French Polynesia |
| 8 | Leeward Islands, French Polynesia |
| 9 | Leeward Islands, French Polynesia |
| 10 | Newport Beach, United States |
Our Boat
I can’t think of a better name for our boat than the Double X.
It’s a fitting tribute to the flagship product in the Nutrilite brand, a product that has helped millions of health-conscious people around the world get the nutrients they need to enjoy an active lifestyle with energy and vigor. I’ve been eating Double X for eight decades now, and you can be sure there will be a supply on board for this trip.
- The Double X crew poses for one last photo before departing for the South Seas (from left to right): Dr. Sam, Captain Bob, Rod, Paul, Els and Zach. Sausalito, California. July 16, 2016. Photo: L. Williams
Our Boat
The original owner of this 78-foot Kelly Archer Cutter was the grandson of the Entemann’s cake empire, who named the vessel Martha M in honor of his mother, Martha Entemann. The next owner renamed the boat Moonraker to honor his birthplace, Wiltshire County, England. According to folklore, some villagers once hid contraband barrels of brandy in a village pond. One night when they went to retrieve the barrels, they were confronted by customs and excise officials and quickly explained away their actions as raking in round cheese from the pond under the light of the full moon. The tall tale, as legend goes, was enough to satisfy the officers’ curiosity who then dismissed the villagers as simple country folk.
The captain discovers a hidden gem
After several years of research and searching, Captain Bob discovered the Moonraker moored at Mallorca Island in the Mediterranean. Weighing in at 70 tons and with a fuel range of about 3,000 miles, the vessel would be fully capable of crossing the ocean and sailing among the trade winds of the South Pacific. This diamond in the rough caught Bob’s eye, and he knew just how to refurbish it to make it the perfect vessel for our journey. When Francesca and I visited the boat in Mallorca, we were in total agreement, it was a gem. It was exactly what we were looking for.
When negotiations were finally complete, we were able to acquire the Moonraker in March 2014 and arranged to have her brought back to the United States. Francesca and I were lucky enough to visit the boat for a few days while en route, fell in love with her and renamed her Double X.
A new lease on life
Now that the Double X is refurbished, she’s a powerful vessel ready to take on just about any challenge. She’s a beauty too, with a gleaming white exterior and teak deck that wraps around the pilothouse with its round tinted windows. The cockpit sits inside the pilothouse, sheltered from the environment, serving as the main navigation station, while a secondary station is down below where it is also possible to steer and navigate.
Captain Bob’s refurbishing efforts not only included adding modern navigational equipment and satellite communications, but also solar panels, special generators, and other adaptations that allow us to sail as sustainably as possible. In fact, a key goal as we travel is to conserve fuel and water as much as we can.[pullquote]Now that the Double X is refurbished, she’s a powerful vessel ready to take on just about any challenge.[/pullquote]
Inside, the large salon or living area provides a spacious area to share the adventures of the day. The galley or kitchen is well equipped and ready to be stocked with supplies. The boat has a main cabin aft that fits a double bed. Forward of the mast, three remaining cabins, all with their own heads and showers, are ready for crew and guests.
The best laid plans
Our initial goal was to leave Newport Harbor by the end of 2015, but the final test of the hydraulic system was well, let me just say, less than impressive. Our journey was delayed, much to our frustration, but in retrospect, we are grateful. I think these things work out for the best. After all, if your boat’s hydraulics break down, it’s better to be close to shore rather than the middle of the Pacific Ocean. No doubt, this is just one of the many challenges that we will face during our upcoming journey, but we are up for it. New departure date: July 16, 2016 from San Francisco.
From cake to brandy to filling the nutrient gap
I chuckle when I think of the boat’s origins born out of bakery goods and alcohol, and how it has been reborn as the Double X, a moniker that embodies health and wellness. But when I think of how the Double X will be taking us in search of people trying to protect the environment and practicing sustainable living practices that we can share, well then I’m all smiles and eager to get started.
A picture is worth a thousand words
A dining bench sits under a roof made of palm fronds just steps from the shore. Enjoying a meal overlooking this beautiful view reminds you just how tranquil nature can be. September 2016. Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. Photo: F. Rehnborg
We saw no people, but this friendly dog welcomed us ashore at Hakatea Bay and accompanied us the whole way on a long hike. August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Just beneath clear water, this coral garden shows off some of its beautiful purple colors. Tahaa, French Polynesia. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Dr. Sam and Francesca embrace for a farewell hug until they meet in the South Pacific in a few weeks. Sausalito, Calif., July 16, 2016.
A spectacular sunset signals the end of an equally spectacular day on Tahaa. Our trip to the island was pure joy, especially with an old friend as our guide, sharing his deep knowledge about his island home and community commuted to protecting it. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Under the shade of a lanai, overlooking the water’s edge and open to the South Sea breezes, I settle in to write a few notes and watch the boats in the distance. The beautiful view inspired much reflection. Moorea, Society Islands. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Dr. Sam waves to well-wishers on the dock as the Double X officially departs from Schoonmaker Point Marina, Sausalito, Calif., July 16, 2016.
A vendor displays an assortment of freshly caught fish at a local outdoor market. Fishing is a top income producer in French Polynesia, just below tourism and pearl farming. Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
The Double X looking majestic as she takes part in one of the many sailing trials in preparation of our long voyage. Newport Beach, Calif. May 2016.
With my red backpack in tow, I pass one of the few grocery stores on the island during a hike on the island. Taiohae Bay, Nuku Hiva. August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Welcome inside the Double X. Several steps lead down to the salon, galley and living quarters, May 2016.
Blacktip reef sharks gathering in shallow waters off shore. Blue Lagoon, Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. September 2016 Photo: F. Rehnborg
Captain Bob and crew members join Francesca and me to model our official Double X hats and shirts, so crisp and new but destined for plenty of wear and tear on our upcoming year-long journey. Newport Beach, Calif., November 7, 2015.
From a distance, the palm trees on this motu in Raiatea appear to touch the cloudy skies above, yet are only feet from the water’s edge. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Marquesan catholic wood carvings. Nuku Hiva. August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Richard, Charlie and I pose for the camera as I hold a ginger-based herbal drink that Desiree , a Tahitian herbal practitioner, made from ginger and various greens for cleansing. It works, and Francesca can verify that it works very quickly! Opoa Valley, Raiatea, Society Islands. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
The Double X looking majestic as she takes part in one of the many sailing trials in preparation of the long voyage to the South Seas. Newport Beach, Calif., May 29, 2016.
A Marquesan home tucked among the craggy rocky formations and vibrant foliage. Fatu Hiva, Marquesas Islands. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Notre Dame Cathedral, Taiohae, Nuku Hiva, August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Wearing a bright orange colander adorned with clothes pins as my crown and holding a boat hook as my trident, I was fully prepared to be the official emissary of King Neptune, Ruler of the Sea, for our equator-crossing ceremony. July 31, 2016.
Sitting in the main salon, preparing to take my morning Double X supplement after a particularly rough night withstanding gale force winds while moored off Catalina Island, Calif., April 23, 2016.
A huge tuna, caught by the locals for us, lies in the breakwater on Fakarava. We enjoyed one delicious dinner that night! Fakarava, Tuomotu Islands. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A local sign shows the invasive brown algae (Turbinaria ornata) growing on weakened coral that eventually break off and float to the surface forming a sea of brown pods. This was a common sight throughout our trip. Tahiti, French Polynesia. October 2015.
A Marquesan home tucked among the craggy rocky formations and vibrant foliage. Fatu Hiva, Marquesas Islands. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
John, Elise, Francesca and I pose for a photo while snorkeling in the lagoon on Rangiroa in the Tuamotos. The water was calm here, but during our sail from Rangiroa to Ahe, the conditions were so tough that no one onboard was able to take any photos. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Some of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve ever seen were in the doldrums ON the equator. With so little air movement and a water temperature in the high 80°s F, moisture rises up from the water into the clouds, making for magnificent, slow moving cloud formations. We saw faces, like those of various presidents, and images of animals in several different sunsets. This is one of the most amazing places in the world. July 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Francesca and I are all smiles on deck of the Double X in Newport Marina. We’re eager for final testing to confirm the boat is ready for the year-long journey ahead. Newport Beach, Calif., November 7, 2015.
Francesca and other guests celebrate the birthday of our friend Frendoo (not featured). In the background, Double X crew member Paul happily shares a friendly “hang loose” sign. Raiatea, October 2016.
Cloudy skies make for a fiery sunset as the Double X makes her way to Bora Bora. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
The water temperature monitoring on board records warm waters of 87 degrees Fahrenheit, unusual for this region of the Pacific ocean. July 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
A view over the Double X stern as it motors out of Newport Jetty in the early morning. The ship’s flag is limp, signaling calm winds needed for good motoring conditions, Newport Beach, Calif., June 14, 2016.
John, Elise, Francesca and I pose for a photo while snorkeling in the lagoon on Rangiroa in the Tuamotos. The water was calm here, but during our sail from Rangiroa to Ahe, the conditions were so tough that no one onboard was able to take any photos. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Shark jaws, from a shark we caught 40-plus years ago during my Firebird voyage hangs in the Firebird main salon and displays the motto, "You can't have too much fun.” I believe this as strongly today as I did 40 years ago. When you are having fun—whether at work, play or love—amazing things can happen.
Here I am ready to take on the waves at world famous Teahupo’o Beach. (Not really, I think I’ll pass on these!) Tahiti. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
With drinks in hand, Francesca and Frendoo smile for the camera. What a great time we had visiting and catching up on all the news about her family and life on the island. Raiatea, October 2016.
Two miles off the Newport jetty, the Double X crew pauses to watch a whale dive, while fellow whale watchers capture this photo. Newport Beach, Calif., July 5, 2016.
Dr. Sam in red jacket and cap, smiles for the helicopter above taking a video as the Double X sails under the Golden Gate Bridge to the South Seas. All hands are on deck for the beginning of this amazing adventure. San Francisco, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photo: C. Woods.
Majestic rock formations shoot upwards into the fluffy clouds. This is our first site as we drop anchor at Bora Bora. September 20, 2016 Photo: F. Rehnborg
Volcanic structures in Fatu Hiva. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A big, beautiful banyan tree that we spotted on our way to Hatiheu towards the north side of Nuku Hiva. August 11, 2016. Photo: Z. Hanna
Lisa and I scout out an area on the Marin Headlands for the best vantage point to view the Double X when she passes underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. July 13, 2016. Photo: E. Nungaray
Members of the Land Crew wait on the Marin Headlands to watch the Double X sail underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. July 16, 2016. Photo: L. Williams
The Double X is on her way to the South Pacific after passing underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. July 16, 2016. Photo credit: Chris Woods.
Francesca and Sophia Loren, Festival Napa Valley Tribute to Margrit Mondavi, July 23, 2016. While the Double X crew was out at sea, my lovely wife had the opportunity to meet, dine and converse with Sophia in her native tongue. It was a dream come true, especially when Sophia paid her the ultimate compliment, that she looked like her 30 years ago!
Our friend of 40 years, Richard, looking right at home aboard his fishing boat Tara Viti. We are so fortunate to be able to catch up with old and dear friends during our journey. Tahaa, French Polynesia. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Looking back on a small motu in the Tahaa atoll as we depart on the Double X. It’s a reminder of just how vulnerable low-lying islands are to changes in the sea level and erosion. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Francesca’s birthday and send off lunch with dear friends. Soon she will be joining me and the rest of the Double X crew in the South Pacific on the island of Nuku Hiva. August 10, 2016.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch. National Sustainable Seafood Guide, July 2010.
Zack in action. A true professional. July 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg.
Under the shade of a lanai, overlooking the water’s edge and open to the South Sea breezes, I settle in to write a few notes and watch the boats in the distance. The beautiful view inspired much reflection. Moorea, Society Islands. October 2016.
A sunset lights up the horizon during a pre-launch sailing trial to the Channel Islands. May 29, 2016.
We saw some amazing sunsets and cloud formations while making the crossing. July 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Zack checks out a telephone booth that seems out of place in this natural setting. Nuku Hiva, August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Swaying palms overlook the ocean on this secluded island just south of Rangiroa. With only 5 bungalows to accommodate guests and no electricity, the island gives you a feel for traditional Polynesian living. We spent two magical days here. Sauvage Island, French Polynesia. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
The sun shines through the stained glass windows of a local church as parishioners enter (not pictured) and prepare for service. The singing was absolutely spectacular. Tahaa, French Polynesia. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
The Firebird, far right, resting gently in the marina. Noumea, New Caledonia, 1976.
Double X entering Moorea. Our arrival signals that the end of our sailing trip is near. What an adventure it has been. French Polynesia. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg.
Captain Bob steering the Double X during a sailing trial to Catalina Island, May 2016.
Francesca and Desiree pose for the camera on Desiree’s farm where she uses many of the herbs grown as a traditional herbal practitioner. Raiatea. October 2016. Photo: S. Rehnborg
The Double X crew sporting our Double X shirt. If you would like one free, email us your name, address, t-shirt size and something you learned from this blog to DoubleXCrew@DrSamsBlog.com and we will be happy to send you one free (U.S. delivery only), while supplies last. We are all in this together!
Thomas Estrado and Cesar Lugo help me gather my Nutrilite food supplements for the Double X journey. Although, storage space is limited on the boat, we’ve made plenty of room for this important cargo. Nutrilite Headquarters, Buena Park, CA, October 2015.
Double X crew poses for a final group photo before taking off for the first (and longest leg) of the journey. Sausalito, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photo credit: Lorna
On the deck of the Double X as we test the seaworthiness of the vessel during a sailing trial from Newport Beach to Catalina Island, Calif., April 22, 2016.
The mighty Double X crew poses for one last photo before departing for the South Seas (from left to right): Dr. Sam, Captain Bob, Rod, Paul, Els and Zach. Sausalito, Calif., July 16, 2016.
Our first anchorage in Fakarava, the second largest of the Tuamotu atolls. Sparkling and pristine waters abound in this nature preserve for many rare species of plants, birds and crustaceans. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Palm fronds blow in the wind as the distinctive rock formations of Bora Bora stand steady in the background. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Lush green vegetation surrounds a breadbox. With its long, narrow design, the box is perfectly shaped to hold the freshly baked baguettes that are delivered directly to homes. These can be seen throughout the islands. Tahaa, French Polynesia. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A beautiful bay in Nuku Hiva. August 12, 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Two happy children of Tahiti. September 2016
My friends Roland and Richard join me in Roland’s office. On the wall behind us, fishing poles hang with care next to an American flag. It’s an extensive array of fishing gear that would be the envy of any serious fisherman. Raiatea. October 2016.
Our anchorage at Fatu Hiva, the southern most island of the Marquesas isalnds, French Polynesia. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A sunset lights up the horizon during a pre-launch sailing trial. Channel Islands, Calif., May 29, 2016.
A quote found while visiting the beach, "In this fleeting moment what extravagant respite as booming surf speaks its mystical passage across the undreamed depths." Laguna Beach, Calif., 2016.
Double X crew members Zack, Els and Captain Bob prepare to go under the Golden Gate Bridge, signaling the official start of our South Pacific Adventure. San Francisco Bay, July 16, 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Our bright red, rented bikes sit on a sandy shore on Fakarava. Francesca and I were able to peddle all over the island, exploring its natural beauty up close. Fakarava, Tuomotu Islands. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Els keeps a watchful eye on the taut sail just above the powerful boom of the Double X during a sailing trial. Catalina Island, Calif., May 29, 2016.
Lisa and I scout out an area on the Marin Headlands for the best vantage point to view the Double X when she passes underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. July 13, 2016. Photo: E. Nungaray
The polliwogs, Zack, Paul and Rod, rejoicing over becoming shellbacks, jump over the equatorial line. July 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Just two of the hundreds of dolphins swimming around the Double X as we sail from Newport Beach and Catalina Island during our sailing one of many sailing trials preparing Double X for the voyage. It’s not easy to catch them on camera because they're so fast! April 22, 2016.
Palm fronds blow in the wind as a few birds gather on a small sand bank. Low lying atolls like this are especially vulnerable to changes in sea level. Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. September 2016 Photo: F. Rehnborg
The owner of La Maison de la Vanille joins me as I inspect vanilla pods while visiting Tahaa. The island is known as the "Vanilla Island” as it produces most of the vanilla in the region. Tahaa, French Polynesia. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Captain Bob steers the Double X during a sailing trial to Catalina Island, Calif., May 2016.
Francesca and I are joined by John and Elise as local dancers gather around us for this photo. It was a Tahitian night filled with local culture. Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. September 2016.
Pots and pans stack neatly on shelves next to Charlie’s and Desiree’s house, ready for use. Despite its primitive look, his farm was clean, organized and very productive. Opoa Valley, Raiatea, Society Islands. October 2016. Photo: S. Rehnborg
As the brochure proclaims, “The Teahupo’o wave is sudden, fast and powerful,” one of the most dangerous waves in the world. Tahiti, French Polynesia. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Playful dolphins swim next to the Double X as if to lead our way through the pass at Raiatea. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A good day’s catch destined for the dinner table. Mediterranean, 1977.
Let the adventure begin! So happy to be aboard the Double X. Here’s to smooth sailing! San Francisco Bay, July 16, 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Captain Bob strikes a serious pose at the helm of the Double X, as Els prepares for departure, both eager to begin the Pacific crossing. Sausalito, Calif., July 2016. Photos: L. Williams
Captain Bob joins me on the whaler as we pose with two of the many fish that we caught during our Firebird journey over 40 years ago. Marquesas Islands, December 1975.
Captain Bob steering the Double X during a sailing trial to Catalina Island, May 2016.
We had the opportunity to visit Ua Pou, the third largest of the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Just two of the hundreds of dolphins swimming around the Double X during a sail from Newport Beach to Catalina Island, Calif. It’s not easy to catch them on camera because they're so fast. April 22, 2016.
Plant cultivation in Opoa Valley. Raiatea is a lush, green island, supplying many of the larger islands fresh fruits and vegetables. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
On deck of the Double X, I’m all smiles and eager to get underway on our sailing adventure. After many unexpected turns, we arrived back in Southern California sooner than expected. It certainly has been an action-packed time, full of lessons learned. San Francisco Bay, July 16, 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Taking a hike in Nuku Hiva. August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Examining vanilla pods as they cling to a vine, I see firsthand how high humidity and sunny skies help this crop thrive on the island Tahaa, French Polynesia. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Decked out in their finest, three dancers pose for a photo with me on Tahitian night. Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnbor
It’s a sailing life. Sitting down for a bite to eat and enjoying some good conversation. July 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Sparkling water surrounds the Double X just offshore. The deep blue color becomes turquoise as you move closer to shore, making for a spectacular visual effect. Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A French sign proclaiming “The House of Vanilla,” marks the entrance of this small family-run operation where visitors can see the preparation and drying of the vanilla bean. September 2016. Tahaa, French Polynesia. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Some say that this is paradise lost. Taiohae Bay, Nuku Hiva. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Made it! I can’t help but smile and flash a victory sign as we arrive at the islands, the first land we’ve seen after our wild 19-day Pacific ocean crossing. Nuku Hiva, August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
A glorious night at anchor in Tahaa. The island today is much like Hawaii in the 1950s or Moorea in the 1970s. It’s a great example of what is still possible when people are committed to the environment. October 2016, Photo: F. Rehnborg
Our first landing spot and temporary home in the Marquesas Islands after leaving San Francisco. Taiohae Bay, Nuku Hiva, August 11, 2016. Photo: Z. Hanna
The grand boulevard at Taiohae, Nuku Hiva, August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Within two months, mature staghorn coral, bleached and weakened, is smothered and destroyed by brown algae. February 2016 versus April 2016. Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Source: ARC Centre of Excellence.
The Double X crew, John, Elise, Francesca, myself, Captain Bob and Els, as we open the doors of Double X to friends and family a few weeks before we depart on our journey. Newport Marina, November 7, 2015.
European-inspired architecture sits behind native huts and lush tropical gardens in an impressive display of cultural blending. Samoa (formerly Western Samoa), May 1976.
Book cover of World Without Fish by Mark Kurlansky. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I encourage everyone to read it. In fact, I asked the Land Crew to get a few extra copies to share. If you’re interested in a free copy, just email them at DoubleXcrew@drsamrehnborg.com. We just have a few (25), so the time to act is now. Here’s to great living. We are all in this together!
Used with permission from Workman Publishing.
From behind a table filled with vanilla bean pods stacked in neat rows, Richard explains the vanilla bean drying process to me. The smell of the vanilla beans lingers in the air, much like our acerola concentrate back home. Tahaa, French Polynesia. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Francesca and I enjoy our last dinner on the islands before flying home. It has been so gratifying to help bring awareness to the environmental challenges faced by the islands. Moorea, French Polynesia, October 2016.
Zach (l) and Paul (r) smiling for the camera aboard the Double X on launch day. Sausalito, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photos: E. Nungaray, L. Williams
My beautiful picture
Double X resting majestically in Hakatea Bay in Nuku Hiva, Marquesas Islands, August 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
Notre Dame Cathedral of Taiohae (the main city on the island of Nuku Hiva). This is the largest church on the Marquesas Islands noted for its mixture of European and local Marquesan design. August 9, 2016. Photo: Z. Hanna
My parents Carl and Edith Rehnborg with family friend Simone Hintze leaving the Tahiti airport days after the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963.
Hiding behind the clouds, the sun slowly sets, signaling the end of a beautiful day out on the water. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Charlie’s and Desiree’s farm in the Opoa Valley. It is a showcase of fertile soil and hearty plant cultivation, a hallmark of the island. Raiatea, French Polynesia. October 2016. Photo: S. Rehnborg
On the road between Hatiheu and Aakapa, we came across this religious relic of wood and stone. It’s amazing what you find traveling the backroads of Nuku Hiva. Just watch out for the hornets! August 11, 2016. Photo: Z. Hanna
My father sits outside a lanai at their vacation home in Punaauia, Tahiti, enjoying the South Sea breezes and balming climate. He made protecting the environment and native cultures a top priority for his business investments in the area.
A recyclable bin sits among the lush foliage on Raiatea. These bins are a typical sight throughout French Polynesia, providing a convenient way for passerbys to recycle aluminum, plastic and paper materials in an effort to protect the land. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Bracing myself on deck to strike the signature Double X pose under a full sail. From supplements to sailboats, we’re taking Double X around the world. Crossing the Pacific Ocean, July 2016. Photo: R. Rehnborg
An assortment of fresh fish at a local outdoor market. Fishing is a top income producer in French Polynesia, just below tourism and pearl farming. Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Rock formations soar into the sky from the lush vegetation below. This was the view from our first anchorage in Fatu Hiva, Marquesas Islands. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A view overlooking the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Laguna Beach. This sandy stretch of shoreline, popular for walking, is facing increasing challenges from El Nino storms and coastal erosion. Laguna Beach, Calif. November 22, 2012.
Sunset in Raiatea, French Polynesia. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A local church sits amid swaying palm trees in Fatu Hiva. A truly picturesque site. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Our dear friend Punua and his son play for us at sunset as we reminisce about good times together. September 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
A local sign shows the invasive brown algae (Turbinaria ornata) growing on weakened coral that eventually break off and float to the surface forming a sea of brown pods. This was a common sight throughout our trip. Tahiti, French Polynesia. October 2015.
Palm trees sway under blue skies as huts stand at attention off the shoreline. It is a reminder of the importance of protecting natural settings like this. Rangiroa, Tuomotu Islands. August 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Rod and me aboard the Double X on launch day. We’re a father-and-son team ready to join the crew and take on the Pacific Ocean crossing. Sausalito, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photo: L. Williams.
The Double X is about to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge on her way to the South Pacific. It was a day full of anticipation and one that marked a dream come true. San Francisco, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photo: C. Woods
With camera at the ready, land crew member Ericka braces against the wind atop the Marin Headlands, eager to get the perfect shot of the Double X sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge on departure day. Marin Headlands, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photo: L. Williams
Charlie walks toward his home on his farm in the Opoa Valley. It’s simple, but neat as a pin, and surrounded by a clean, organized, productive farm where he and his wife produce fruit, herbs, spices and other foods for the local markets. Raiatea, Society Islands. October 2016. Photo: S. Rehnborg
Vaipo Waterfall, Nuku Hiva. August 2016.
Photo: R. Rehnborg
Standing at the ancient Marae Taputapuatea site in Raiatea. In 1995, a fleet of Polynesian canoes from Hawaii, the Cook Islands, Easter Island and Tahiti gathered here for celebration and then set off for trips to other parts of French Polynesia and the U.S. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
One of the few boats seen. Photo: R Rehnborg
With ukuleles in hand, friends gather for a traditional birthday Tahitian celebration for Frendoo. There were at least 10 musicians and they played for 10 hours. It was a day we will always remember. Raiatea, French Polynesia. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg.
The Double X sails under the Golden Gate Bridge on departure day with winds blowing at 20-25 knots, making for an exciting beginning to our journey to the South Seas. San Francisco, Calif., July 16, 2016. Photo: C. Woods
Sharing a laugh with Francesca and our youngest daughter Jenna as we pose for a wedding photo on her big day. Telluride, Colo., July 3, 2016. Photo Credit: Cat Mayer
A beautiful clean street of Raiatea. This is a typical sight throughout French Polynesia as islanders take pride in protecting their environment. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
Paul, Els and me with the catch of the day, a record-breaking blue marlin weighing in at 533 kilos. Raiatea, French Polynesia. October 2016. Photo: F. Rehnborg
On the left, the Double X, hoisted in the shipyard, undergoes much needed repairs; Newport Beach, Calif., May 2015. On the right, the Double X after a complete overall spanning over a year to make her seaworthy for the long journey ahead; Newport Beach, Calif., May 2016.
Director Chris Woods and his team at Traveling Picture Show Company took to the skies by helicopter to capture us as we sailed the Double X out of San Francisco Bay on June 16, 2016, on our way to the South Seas.
The Nutrilite 80th Anniversary Color Your Story World Tour was an invigorating two years. Francesca and I traveled to over 30 countries to share the message of optimal health and witnessed overwhelming excitement and passion for healthy living. What a sight to behold!
Zack and Paul took this video during our tour of the back country. The beauty of the land is so spectacular that when people arrive they often proclaim, “Wow, this is paradise lost!” I have to agree.