What upgrades are actually worth the money on an older sailboat… and which ones you should avoid?In this episode of The Sailing Doodles Podcast, I break down the most valuable upgrades I’ve done across all the boats I’ve owned — from my classic CT-56 to the newer catamarans and charter boats we’ve sailed.I cover which improvements truly make your boat safer, easier to sail, and more enjoyable… and which “fancy” upgrades usually end up being a waste of money. If you’re shopping for an older cruising boat or planning a refit, this episode will save you thousands.Topics CoveredWhy buying a boat already upgraded is often cheaperRigging, sails, and critical safety upgradesGround tackle & anchoring systems worth investing inAutopilots, instruments & navigation upgradesElectrical systems, lithium, solar & chargingRefrigeration: why it’s usually a later priorityComfort upgrades: electric winches, watermakers & moreWhat to skip… and what will absolutely transform your cruisingAbout the ChannelI’m Bobby from Sailing Doodles. I sail, travel, and document the adventure while running my YouTube channels from around the world — from the Caribbean and the Bahamas to the Mediterranean and beyond.If you enjoy the episode, hit subscribe and check out the sailing raffles, flotillas, and behind-the-scenes content!Enter the contest here: https://raffall.com/398138/enter-raffle-to-win-sailing-doodles-sailboat-hosted-by-sailing-doodlesWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/ Patreon members will get to watch the submissions and help me decide who joins the crew. If you want to be part of the process, join here: https://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodles

The fans didn’t hold back on this one… In this Q&A episode, I answer YOUR questions about the new catamaran, future sailing plans, past crew, and even a few spicy ones about “hot babes” and babies on board We talk about:• Updates on the new Island Spirit 525e catamaran (Hull #5)• Future cruising plans in Thailand and the Mediterranean• Crew, relationships, and how the channel has evolved• Life as a full-time liveaboard and YouTuber• Gear, filming setups, and how the dogs handle land lifeThanks to everyone who submitted questions — I read as many as I could!Watch next: [link to related podcast or vlog]Join the Sailing Doodles community: Patreon / Podia linksFollow along on Instagram: @SailingDoodles#SailingDoodles #Podcast #QandA #SailingLife #BoatLifeEnter the contest here: https://raffall.com/398138/enter-raffle-to-win-sailing-doodles-sailboat-hosted-by-sailing-doodlesWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/Patreon members will get to watch the submissions and help me decide who joins the crew. If you want to be part of the process, join here: https://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodles

I just bought a brand-new RV… and it didn’t even make it off the lot before breaking down. Within minutes, the engine started smoking and I quickly realized the EGR cooler had failed, dumping coolant straight into the exhaust.In this episode of The Sailing Doodles Podcast, I talk about what happened, how I diagnosed the issue, and what comes next. The dealer says they’ll cover the repair — but we’ll see what really happens.I’ll share what I’ve learned from years of owning boats, planes, and RVs about mechanical failures, warranty claims, and how to handle breakdowns the smart way.Topics:How to spot EGR cooler failure symptomsWhat happens when coolant enters the exhaustTowing and dealer negotiationsLessons learned when buying new rigsListen on YouTube, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.#RVBrokeDown #RVPurchase #EGRcooler #SailingDoodlesPodcastEnter the contest here: https://raffall.com/398138/enter-raffle-to-win-sailing-doodles-sailboat-hosted-by-sailing-doodlesWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/Patreon members will get to watch the submissions and help me decide who joins the crew. If you want to be part of the process, join here: https://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodles

In this episode, I dive into how sailors and cruisers deal with one of the biggest threats on the ocean — hurricanes.Fifty years ago, crossing an ocean meant hoping you didn’t run into a storm. There was no internet, no satellite tracking, and little warning. Today, we carry a weather computer in our pocket, with live hurricane data, Starlink connectivity, and routing tools that can literally save lives.We’ll talk about:How hurricane forecasting has changed in just a few decadesThe role of Starlink and modern weather apps at seaWhat the “hurricane box” is — and why insurance won’t cover you inside it How cruisers migrate north and south each year to stay safeWhere sailors ride out storms (the famous “hurricane holes”)The truth about insurance loopholes and “named storm” clausesReal stories, lessons learned, and what it’s like to live with hurricane season as a full-time cruiserIf you’ve ever wondered how modern sailors dodge hurricanes — or how it was done before the digital age — this episode will blow your mind.Leave a comment: Where do you go during hurricane season?Subscribe for more real-life sailing stories, tech talk, and behind-the-scenes of the cruising lifestyle.#SailingDoodles #HurricaneSeason #SailingPodcast #CruisingLife #StarlinkAtSea #SailingTips

A Queensland superyacht agent was offered $300,000 for a “simple” job — help two divers enter Australia. Days later, one diver was dead, another had vanished, and 100 kilos of cocaine were floating in Newcastle Harbor.In this episode, Captain Bobby White of The Sailing Doodles Podcast breaks down the true story of James Blake Blee — how financial desperation led to a deadly smuggling plot, what “parasite smuggling” really is, and why this growing underwater drug tactic is spreading around the world.All details sourced from court reports, News.com.au, ABC Australia, and VICE News investigations.Enter the contest here: https://raffall.com/398138/enter-raffle-to-win-sailing-doodles-sailboat-hosted-by-sailing-doodlesWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/To apply: Send a short introduction video uploaded to YouTube (public or unlisted) and email me the link. Tell me who you are, why you want to join, and what makes you the perfect fit. cruise@sailingdoodles.comPatreon members will get to watch the submissions and help me decide who joins the crew. If you want to be part of the process, join here: https://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodles

A U.S.-flagged motor yacht was raided by Bahamian authorities in Bimini after a tip-off — and what they found shocked everyone. Ten people were arrested, including the crew, and officers seized a cache of weapons, ammunition, and cash.In this episode, Captain Bobby White of Sailing Doodles breaks down the facts, shows footage from the local news, takes a look at the yacht’s charter listing, and shares his honest opinions about carrying weapons onboard and the risks every cruiser faces when crossing borders.I’m not a lawyer — this is my perspective as a captain who’s checked in at Bimini many times. Always verify local laws before you travel.Enter the contest here: https://raffall.com/398138/enter-raffle-to-win-sailing-doodles-sailboat-hosted-by-sailing-doodlesWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/To apply: Send a short introduction video uploaded to YouTube (public or unlisted) and email me the link. Tell me who you are, why you want to join, and what makes you the perfect fit. cruise@sailingdoodles.comPatreon members will get to watch the submissions and help me decide who joins the crew. If you want to be part of the process, join here: https://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodles

This week’s Sailing Doodles Podcast gets personal. Viewers submitted hundreds of questions — and of course, the most common one was about Laura.Are Laura and I getting back together? What really happened behind the scenes at the Annapolis Boat Show? And how does Miss Lone Star fit into all this?I also answer your questions about the new catamaran, future flotillas, the boat raffle, and what’s next for Sailing Doodles in 2026.Drop your next questions in the comments for the next Q&A episode!Enter the contest here: https://raffall.com/398138/enter-raffle-to-win-sailing-doodles-sailboat-hosted-by-sailing-doodlesWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/To apply: Send a short introduction video uploaded to YouTube (public or unlisted) and email me the link. Tell me who you are, why you want to join, and what makes you the perfect fit. cruise@sailingdoodles.comPatreon members will get to watch the submissions and help me decide who joins the crew. If you want to be part of the process, join here: https://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodles

This might be the biggest announcement I’ve ever made. I’m looking for two people — ideally a couple — to come sail with me in Thailand this February for four months.You don’t need sailing or editing experience. I’ll teach you how to sail, how to film, and how to create a YouTube channel like Sailing Doodles.The goal? To train the next generation of creators and help them launch their own sailing channel when the journey’s done.In this episode, I explain what I’m looking for, what the experience will be like, and how to apply.To apply: Send a short introduction video uploaded to YouTube (public or unlisted) and email me the link. Tell me who you are, why you want to join, and what makes you the perfect fit. cruise@sailingdoodles.comPatreon members will get to watch the submissions and help me decide who joins the crew. If you want to be part of the process, join here: https://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodlesThis is your chance to change your life — to learn, explore, and start your own adventure.

At the Annapolis Boat Show, Bobby sits down with Amanda and Maryline from Current Yachts, a new brokerage that’s shaking up the traditional 10% commission model. Instead of sky-high broker fees, they’re offering a flat-fee, transparent system — just $1,500 to list your boat and à-la-carte options for everything else. We dive into why they believe the old system is broken, how they’re making boat buying and selling fairer, and what this means for the future of yacht sales.If you’ve ever thought about selling your boat — or buying one — you won’t want to miss this conversation.Check out Current Yachtshttps://www.currentyachts.comThis channel is funded by viewers like you. Please help us keep this channel creating great content by Joining the Sailing Doodles Navyhttps://sailingdoodles.podia.com/sailing-doodles-course-communityor become a channel memberhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkDwexrF43p_1QurfKFBCBA/joinor join our Patreonhttp://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodlesDonate Via Paypal to helphttp://www.paypal.me/sailingdoodles

Fan-favorite Laura from Sailing Doodles Seasons 2 & 3 is back! She joined me at the Annapolis Boat Show with her two young kids, and things got a little… chaotic.We catch up on what Laura’s been up to since her sailing days, talk about motherhood, life after the show, and the possibility of getting back on the water.This one’s totally “wheels off” — her 14-month-old demanded plenty of attention (and snacks), interrupted mid-sentence, and even forced an unexpected break for feeding time. It’s messy, real, and absolutely hilarious.If you’ve missed Laura’s energy, laughter, and down-to-earth honesty — this episode’s for you!Enter the contest here: https://raffall.com/398138/enter-raffle-to-win-sailing-doodles-sailboat-hosted-by-sailing-doodlesWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/

What started as one man’s dream to sail the world has grown into one of the most ambitious and inspiring sailing projects on YouTube. In this episode of The Sailing Doodles Podcast, I sit down with Nate and Amy from Expedition Drenched to uncover how it all began — from filming underwater expeditions to building a worldwide nonprofit that protects the oceans.We talk about:How Nate left everything behind to chase a life at seaThe early struggles of creating a sailing show with a bigger purposeWhat makes Expedition Drenched so different from other sailing channelsHow their team balances adventure, filmmaking, and marine conservationIf you love sailing, filmmaking, or stories of people chasing meaning over money — this is a must-watch.#SailingDoodles #ExpeditionDrenched #SailingPodcast #OceanConservationCheck out Expedition Drenched on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExpeditionDrenched

Sailing the Caribbean has always been a dream — but is it getting riskier? Between rising fees in the Bahamas, U.S. drug-interdiction ops near Venezuela, and shifting maritime laws, we dive into whether the Caribbean is still the paradise sailors imagine.In this Q&A episode, I answer fan questions on:Safety in the Caribbean todayRising costs in the Bahamas & alternatives like Cuba and the BVIsPlanning & paperwork for international cruisingBoat ownership, chartering, and insurance lessonsLife aboard with crew, pets, and future sailing plansDrop your thoughts in the comments — would YOU still sail the Caribbean right now?Enter the contest here: https://raffall.com/398138/enter-raffle-to-win-sailing-doodles-sailboat-hosted-by-sailing-doodlesWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/get tickets for the Annapolis Show:https://annapolisboatshows.ticketspice.com/annapolis-sailboat-show?t=SailingDoodles

In this special episode, I’m sharing my full life story — from my childhood sailing a Sunfish on my grandparents’ lake, to my aviation career flying Gulfstreams for celebrities, to the stroke that ended my flying days, and how that ultimately led to creating Sailing Doodles.It’s been a wild ride: flying rockstars around the world, living in Nigeria and Dubai, surviving a medical crisis, and then finally selling everything to chase the dream of sailing full time. I’ll take you through the twists, setbacks, and adventures that brought me here today.If you’ve ever wondered how Sailing Doodles started — this is the story behind it all.

Ever dreamed of selling it all and retiring to sail the world? In this episode of The Sailing Doodles Podcast, Bobby breaks down what it really takes to make that dream happen. From health and fitness (because sailing isn’t a spectator sport), to money and income streams, to choosing the right boat and lifestyle — we cover it all.Whether you’re 55 and planning ahead or 67 and wondering if it’s too late, this episode gives you the honest truth about the realities of retiring at sea.Topics include:Why your health matters more than your bank accountHow much money you really need to cruise full-timePassive vs. non-passive income while sailingWhy your boat should be paid off before you cast offThe mental and lifestyle adjustments that make or break retirement cruisingSubscribe for more stories, tips, and real talk about life on the water!

t’s time for another viewer Q&A podcast! In this episode, I answer your most popular questions about life on Nauti Dogs, the upcoming new catamaran, what’s happening with the crew, and even some personal stuff you’ve all been curious about.We cover everything from:Plans for raffling off Nauti Dogs Who might join as the first crew on the new boat My thoughts on flotillas, the Great Lakes, and future destinations Tech and maintenance questions — chart plotters, radar, twin-engine sync Personal topics like crew relationships, family, and even those AI “net worth” videos Thanks to everyone who submitted questions on YouTube, Patreon, and Podia — you make these episodes possible!If you want to submit your own questions for future podcasts, join our community here: [link to Patreon/Podia]get tickets for the Annapolis Show:https://annapolisboatshows.ticketspice.com/annapolis-sailboat-show?t=SailingDoodlesMake an appointment to see the Island Spirit 525e. Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/

Think the ocean is lawless? Think again. In this episode we dive into some of the quirkiest maritime laws that still affect sailors today — from the Coast Guard’s power to board your boat anytime without probable cause, to the myth of 33% salvage rewards, to fines for flying the wrong or tattered flag, bizarre anchoring restrictions, and even odd crew contract rules.Topics covered:Coast Guard boarding authority (Revenue Act roots & Prohibition era)Salvage rights & the truth behind the 33% mythCourtesy flag fines & quirky traditionsAnchoring bans, seagrass zones, and “pay-to-anchor” politicsCrew contracts, Bible laws, and desertion rightsHave you ever been boarded, fined, or tangled up in a weird maritime rule? Share your story in the comments — I’d love to hear it.get tickets for the Annapolis Show:https://annapolisboatshows.ticketspice.com/annapolis-sailboat-show?t=SailingDoodlesMake an appointment to see the Island Spirit 525e. Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/

It’s time for another Q&A podcast with questions straight from our amazing Patrons and YouTube Members! In this episode, I cover:The biggest sailing mistakes I’ve made (and what I learned)Updates on the new catamaran in Thailand and what’s next for Sailing DoodlesThoughts on circumnavigation, the Pacific vs. Caribbean, and charter adviceCrew questions — who’s joining, what happened with past crew, and Aubrey’s future plansThe latest on insurance, gear, and electric boat techPlus stories about the dogs, Burning Man, and life on the water Huge thanks to our supporters who submitted these questions — if you’d like to be part of the next Q&A, join us on Patreon or as a YouTube Member.Don’t forget to subscribe for more sailing adventures, podcasts, and behind-the-scenes updates!get tickets for the Annapolis Show:https://annapolisboatshows.ticketspice.com/annapolis-sailboat-show?t=SailingDoodlesMake an appointment to see the Island Spirit 525e. Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/

In this episode of The Sailing Doodles Podcast, I sit down with Lauryn from Lost Lauryn to talk about her life of adventure. She’s built a following with her motorcycle channel, traveling on two wheels and sharing her journey, and recently she joined me on a sailing trip at sea.We dive into:How she started her motorcycle channel and what inspires her adventuresThe challenges (and rewards) of documenting life on the roadHer experience sailing with me and what surprised her most about life on the waterWhat’s next for her in both motorcycles and sailingIt’s a fun conversation about chasing freedom, creating content, and living life off the beaten path.Don’t forget to subscribe for more sailing stories, travel adventures, and conversations with fascinating guests.This channel is funded by viewers like you. Please help us keep this channel creating great content by Joining the Sailing Doodles Navyhttps://sailingdoodles.podia.com/sailing-doodles-course-communityor become a channel memberhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkDwexrF43p_1QurfKFBCBA/joinor join our Patreonhttp://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodlesDonate Via Paypal to helphttp://www.paypal.me/sailingdoodles

In this episode of The Sailing Doodles Podcast, I sit down with fellow YouTuber Auburey from Sailing Miss Lone Star while we’re in Greece chartering a catamaran together. We talk about:Her journey into sailing and YouTubeWhat it’s like sailing with an 11-month-old baby on boardOur first time sailing together from Athens to AeginaThe ups and downs of life as full-time sailing creatorsIt’s a fun and honest conversation about the realities of sailing, motherhood at sea, and the adventures that come with chasing this lifestyle.Make sure to check out Auburey’s channel Sailing Miss Lone Star and subscribe for more podcasts with sailors, cruisers, and adventurers from around the world.Want to charter a boat in Greece! Check out Istion and get 10% off with out discount code "DOODLES10" Head over to: https://bit.ly/DOODLES10This channel is funded by viewers like you. Please help us keep this channel creating great content by Joining the Sailing Doodles Navyhttps://sailingdoodles.podia.com/sailing-doodles-course-communityor become a channel memberhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkDwexrF43p_1QurfKFBCBA/joinor join our Patreonhttp://www.patreon.com/sailingdoodlesDonate Via Paypal to helphttp://www.paypal.me/sailingdoodles

In this episode, I take a moment to address some recent negativity from former crewmates. While I won’t name anyone or speak ill of them, I wanted to share my feelings of disappointment and how I’m choosing to respond with positivity. I also want to thank everyone who’s sailed with me over the years, and I’m honored by the memories we’ve shared. On a brighter note, former crewmate Sydney sent in a beautiful video sharing her appreciation for her time on board. Tune in for a mix of gratitude, reflection, and a little behind-the-scenes honesty.Let Sydney whip you into shape!https://future.co/?code=sydney_p&rdrorigin=%2Fsydney_pWant more info in the Island Spirit 525e? Be sure to say you saw it on Sailing Doodles. https://inspiredyachting.com/sailing-doodles-and-inspired-yachting-island-spirit-525e-referral/Precision Sails:https://www.precisionsailloft.com/request-for-quote/?utm_medium=affiliates&utm_source=sailing-doodlesHighfield Boats:https://www.highfieldboats.com/Here is the link for 5% off Total Boat:https://www.totalboat.com/?sca_ref=7873710.M07fS3H4Xu