The Pangaea Crew was fortunate enough to have Zackery Good join us on of our recent expedition to Grand Cayman Island. Zack is a recent graduate of the Masters of Professional Science program at the University of Miami, and is actively working to stop seismic airgun testing in Florida waters through his association with Oceana Florida. He had never had the opportunity to experience offshore sailing before, and had no idea what to expect on board Sea Dragon. He had a lot of time to gather his thoughts while at the helm, and kindly wrote this blog post about his experience on board.
Letting Go
By Zackery Good, Oceana Florida
Asta and Zack letting go of their amazing voices during a rollicking sea shanty.by Zackery Good of Oceana Florida
If there’s one thing I learned from sailing with Pangaea Explorations it’s the importance of letting go—unless you’re about to go overboard. If that’s the case, please hang on.
Whether it’s letting go of life’s daily distractions such as email, texts, and phone calls or letting go of the line running through your hands to avoid a wicked case of rope burn, sailing with Pangaea Explorations points out how important it really is.
Pangaea Explorations is a marine conservation organization based in Miami, Florida. They strive to actively strengthen the health of marine life through exploration, conservation, and education work. They also hope to inspire and develop a new generation of leaders in conservation science, communication, education, art, and policy.
The first day of sailing with guest crew member Bob Lemay
To be honest, I didn’t think my trip with Pangaea would change me, but as we made our way from the docks at Key West out to the Sea Dragon, I got the sense that this was going to be a transformative journey after all. We gathered down below for a pretty standard safety and expectations briefing. Shortly after that we were being gently rocked to sleep in our bunks anxiously waiting for morning when we would set off for Grand Cayman.
In the morning I checked my phone and email one last time as I watched both land and cellular reception dwindle in the distance. I was really doing this. I was going to be at sea for a week. Most of the day passed without anything particularly spectacular happening. We each took turns at the helm and helped to raise, lower, and adjust sails as needed. Driving a sailboat is surprisingly easy. If you’ve driven a Lincoln Town Car you can probably drive a sailboat.
Zack steering the Sea Dragon-like a boss
That night I was spectacularly seasick. As I heaved up what had been a delicious pasta dinner I found myself wondering if I could actually make it to Grand Cayman or if I would just end up inside out. In the end, there’s something cleansing about a good puke. I drifted off to sleep feeling wonderfully empty—letting go of the sickness and embracing my journey.
I was up early for watch the next morning feeling miraculously better. A decent night’s sleep had cured my seasickness and I was ready for the challenges the wind and the sea had in store. The sails billowed and the deep blue of the waves was set off against the crisp white of the foam our wake created. I didn’t even miss the trappings of everyday life. In fact, I was delighted to be off the grid. The only things I needed were the boat, the sea, the sky, and my shipmates. Well, I also needed some ointment. Rope burn hurts.
In the early morning of day three we passed several cruise ships. I couldn’t believe how bright they were compared to the inky black of the waves and gentle sparkle of the moon and the stars. It’s a surreal feeling to pass these little floating cities. Another reminder of how hard it is to let go of everyday life. Yet, also a reminder of how nice it is to be free of its restrictions.
Zack on duty helping first mate Shanley McEntee
Day four arrived and Grand Cayman approached. I felt torn between my itch to explore a new place and my desire to stay at sea. However, once Grand Cayman was in sight I couldn’t wait to explore. In the wee hours of day five we moored offshore and put the boat to bed. I couldn’t believe I was finally there and I couldn’t believe the boat was no longer moving. It felt odd to be able to walk without swaying from side to side.
Our view from anchor on Grand Cayman IslandFinally on land again-why is this flower not swaying?
After letting go of so much from my daily life I can’t believe I’m back writing a blog, checking emails, and texting like a fiend. I miss the simplicity of the open ocean. I long to let go again.
Thank you, Zack, for being a fanastic part of the Pangaea Crew. We hope to see you back on board in the future!
Zack snorkelling the crystal clear waters of Grand Cayman
First time on a sailboat? You’re in the right place.
At Panexplore, you don’t need experience — just curiosity. These guests had never touched a sail before this trip. Now? They’re confidently helping guide us across the open ocean.
We’ll walk you through every step, whether you want to learn the ropes or just embrace the the adventure of a lifetime. No pressure, just fresh air, open water, and the kind of confidence that only comes from trying something new.
📍Sailing made simple. Adventure made real. Join us www.panexplore.com
#Panexplore #oceanadventure #SailingForEveryone #sailingadventure #saillife
No big New Year’s plans? How about a life-changing adventure instead? ✨
Join us aboard SV Sea Dragon for 7 night, sailing the windwards, with St. Lucia’s stunning coastline as the backdrop. Dive into rainforests, snorkel vibrant reefs, and soak in the island’s beauty beneath the iconic Pitons.
This journey is for those ready to go further, dig deeper, and connect — with nature, new friends, and a fresh start to the year!
🌴 Limited spots → panexplore.com → reserve your bunk
#sailingadventure #newyearadventures #StLucia #sailingtrip #traveldeeper #solotrip #sailinstagram
In a world of GPS in Google Maps, we still teach you how to navigate by the sun. ☀️
This is celestial navigation - part ancient art, part brainy adventure, and completely awe-inspiring. It’s not about being old school. It’s about being aware.
Would you want to learn how to find your way using the stars? ✨
#celestialnavigation #sailingadventure #offgrid #travelstories #saillife #sextant
We sail for the moments that move us.
Open ocean, real connection, wild beauty, and the kind of adventure that changes you. 🌊⚓️
Come find your reason.
Join the crew.
Find Trips Online 🔗 www.panexplore.com
#adventuretravel #sailwithpurpose #travelvibes #adventureholiday #sailinglifestyle
This isn’t a trip for scenic cruising. This is the Bay of Biscay: a notorious stretch of Atlantic known for its untamed swells, rugged coastlines, and true test of seamanship.
In 21 days across 3 countries, aboard the indomitable 72‑ft steel SV Sea Dragon—a vessel built for punishment and promise—you’ll learn to helm, trim sails, and thrive in the wildest Atlantic out there.
From the waters off the UK coast, through Biscay’s notorious swells, and straight to the shores of the Canary Islands, this hands‑on expedition will transform your idea of adventure.
You’ll never forget the moment you said yes to this crossing. Book your berth today, the Bay is waiting.
Link in bio 🔗 www.panexplore.com
#panexplore #biscay #sailingadventure #atlanticcrossing #sail #yachtworld #oceanadventure
Eyes on the horizon.
Looking ahead to an exciting lineup of ocean crossings, remote destinations, a whole lot of adventure!
Are you ready? First trip kicks off September 6 🗓️
#traveldeals #adventuresailing #sailing #saillife #travelcommunity #sailingyacht
📢 The Rig Is Back On!
After months of prep and patience, SV Sea Dragon is officially stepping back into her full glory. Under the sunny skies of Gosport, our crew and crane team worked in sync to get the mast and rigging back in place—and she’s looking more ready than ever.
This is a major milestone and we’re one step closer to setting sail on new adventures. Stay tuned...
Coming up: summer sailing in the UK, who’s coming? 💛
#panexplore #seadragon #SailingLife #rigging #adventuretravel #BehindTheScenes #Gosport #bluewatersailing
How’s this for a midday view? 👀
Perched 100 feet up the mast of SV Sea Dragon, the world looks a little different — crew on deck, water like glass, and nothing but open ocean ahead.
Fun fact: That mast? It’s nearly as tall as a 10-story building. Would you climb it?
📍 Somewhere off the map #throwback
#panexplore #sailing #sail #yachtworld #adventuresailing #mast
Some sunsets are meant to be chased. Your spot on deck is waiting. 🌅⛵
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Visit us on the web 🔗 www.panexplore.com to reserve your bunk today!
#liveadventurously #boatlife #sailingadventure #comesailaway #bucketlisttravel #saillife #sail
She’s back. 📣💛⛵️
After 9 months on land, SV Sea Dragon is officially back in the water.
From refit to relaunch, she’s had a full restoration in Gosport, UK — and she’s looking better than ever.
Huge thanks to our incredible crew and shipyard team who worked around the clock to bring her back to life. This is more than just a boat launch — it’s the start of a whole new chapter.
Watch the full launch, hear from the crew, and get ready — our 2025/2026 itinerary is coming in strong.
Can you tell we’re excited? We’ve been posting about it nonstop — and for good reason.
#SVSeaDragon #PanExplore #sailinglife #sail #sailingadventure
2025 Sailing Hype… Fully Engaged💥
New energy. New crew. Fresh adventures loading.
SV Sea Dragon is back in the water and the next chapter is about to begin.
The crew, the hustle, the magic behind the moments—and we want you on deck with us!
Spots are filling. The wind is calling. You coming?
Panexplore.com 🔗
#PanExplore #SeaDragonReturns #SailWithUs #AdventureAwaits #CrewLife #OffshoreVibes #NewItineraryWhoDis