“We were in a marked area for anchoring, but I think the fishermen just didn’t expect a boat to be there,” Elayna explained during a live session with their supporters on December 10. “It was just unlucky.”
A timely insurance renewal
The incident occurred shortly after the couple had renewed their insurance policy—a process they admitted nearly didn’t happen. “We cut it so close,” Elayna confessed. “It’s scary to think what could have happened if we hadn’t sorted it out in time.”
Thankfully, their insurer has stepped up to cover the damage, and repairs are already underway. The Rapido team, which built the trimaran, is flying in to assist with repairs.
Repairs in progress
The La Vagabonde III will be hauled out of the water for repairs, which include installing a new forward beam. “The team at Rapido has already built the replacement part,” Riley said. “It’s a matter of carbon-glassing it on and painting it.”
A temporary tent will be constructed to ensure optimal conditions for the work. Initial estimates suggest the repairs will take about three weeks. “We hope it stays on schedule, but we’re prepared for delays,” Riley added, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of such work.
Reassessing safety measures
The collision has prompted the couple to reassess their safety protocols, especially for nighttime anchoring in busy areas. Elayna admitted she already felt uneasy the night of the incident, which led her to insist on keeping the lights fully on.
“We’ll probably add more lights,” Riley explained. “Not just the anchor light but maybe a deck light and some at the stern. It’s about making ourselves as visible as possible.”
The couple is also considering increased use of their Automatic Identification System (AIS), though they remain cautious about its impact on power consumption. “It’s always a balancing act,” Riley noted. “You want to be visible, but you’ve also got to think about conserving energy for other systems.”
Their community of sailors has offered additional ideas, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the sailing world.
Reflections on risks and rewards
Despite the scare, Riley and Elayna remain steadfast in their love for the lifestyle they’ve chosen. “If you’re going to leave port, you’re inviting a certain amount of danger into your life,” Riley said. “But we’re still happy to take that on because the rewards far outweigh the risks.”
Elayna added, “It’s part of the adventure. The kids bounced back so quickly—it’s amazing how resilient they are. Darwin and Lennie teach us so much about adapting to the unexpected.”
Next chapter: Micronesia
Once repairs are complete, the couple plans to set sail for Micronesia. They are particularly excited about the region’s pristine islands and vibrant underwater ecosystems.
“We’re heading into the deepest ocean in the world,” Riley said. “The islands are wild—giant coconut crabs, incredible marine life, and amazing spearfishing opportunities.”
This new leg of their journey will also be an opportunity for the boys to learn free diving. “This will be the season where we really teach the boys to free dive,” Elayna shared. “They’re already such strong swimmers, and we can’t wait to see them explore the underwater world.”
Staying creative and connected
While managing repairs and planning their next adventure, the couple continues to nurture their creative pursuits and connect with their audience. Elayna has been exploring her musical talents and hopes to incorporate them into future videos.
“I just need to figure out the tech side of recording,” she joked. Riley chimed in, “If anyone has tips, let me know!”
Their thriving platform remains a vital part of their lives. “We love hearing from our audience about what they want to see,” Elayna said. “More cooking, music, or even just day-to-day life aboard—we’re open to ideas.”
It’s not the end
Through the challenges of the collision and repair process, Riley and Elayna’s story continues to inspire their followers. Their reflections on safety, resilience, and the rewards of life at sea highlight their determination to embrace every aspect of the journey, even the unexpected.
“We’re so grateful to be able to do this,” Elayna concluded. “Even with the challenges, it’s the most rewarding way to live.”
As the La Vagabonde III starts the completion of its repairs, the family is ready to continue their adventure, embodying the spirit of exploration and perseverance that has endeared them to their global audience.
