May Newsletter

What we’ve been up to

Hi there,

I completely forgot to mention in my last newsletter that I had the most incredible birthday at the end of March. It started with breakfast in the cockpit, and I mean the real deal. The table was overflowing with delicious food. After that, we went on a long hike, which always makes me happy, and in the evening, we met up with our bay sailor friends for dinner. We had Indian food and ended the night with drinks at an Irish pub. Honestly, it was one of the best birthdays I’ve ever had.

April was a beautiful, sunny month. We went on several long hikes and fully immersed ourselves in the energy of spring. Everything is blooming and it’s a feast for the eyes and nose. One of my personal highlights (it’s Julie here) was a long solo hike of almost 23 kilometers. It was just what I needed. Just me, nature and my legs carrying me forward. Pure peace.

We were craving a change of scenery, so we sailed over to Pollença Bay. It feels so magical being back on the water, soaking up all the beauty around us.

And now, with May just around the corner, it’s time to get moving again. We don’t have a concrete plan, only an idea, but I’m genuinely looking forward to it. To reconnect with fellow sailors we met last year and to simply be. Just us, the sea and our little floating home carrying us forward.

I’m feeling especially grateful these days. My heart is full of love and life. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey, whether you’re following along on this website, Polarsteps, Instagram or YouTube. Creating content that brings joy is what I love most and I’m truly touched that so many of you enjoy it. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Until next time,
Julie, Greg Nelly & Finn 🐾

If you’d like to read the whole story of our adventures, you can find all the details on Polarsteps!

May Mood Inspiration

May is that sweet spot where spring is in full swing and summer is just around the corner. The days are warmer, the flowers are in full bloom and there’s this fresh energy in the air that makes everything feel a little more exciting. It’s the perfect time to shake off any lingering winter sluggishness and really enjoy the longer days.

Here are a few ways to make the most of May:

🌿 Take Care of Something
Whether it’s your garden, your houseplants or even yourself, May is a great time to nurture and grow. Water your plants, start a new book or just take a moment to slow down and check in with yourself.

🌞 Enjoy the Sunshine
The days are getting longer, so make the most of them! Have your morning coffee outside, go for a walk after dinner or just sit in the sun for a few minutes. Soak it all in.

🏕️ Try Something New
Take a little trip, go for a hike or visit a place you’ve never been before. Even if it’s just a new coffee shop or a different route on your daily walk, mix things up and make some new memories.

🎶 Add Some Music to Your Days
Create a new playlist, go to a live concert or just turn up your favourite songs while cooking dinner. There’s something about good music that makes everything feel more alive.

💐 Bring Spring Inside
Grab some fresh flowers from a market or pick a few from your garden. Put them on your table, your desk, anywhere. A little bit of nature indoors makes everything feel brighter.

💛 Do Something Kind
Send a random “thinking of you” text, buy someone a coffee or just smile at a stranger. The smallest things can make someone’s day.

No rush, no pressure. Just enjoy the season and make it yours. 🌸

“May is a reminder that growth takes time. What you nurture now will bloom in ways you never expected.”

Songs on repeat

Music has a special power to shape our mood and this month we’re excited to share the tracks that have been motivating us. From uplifting anthems to soothing tunes that help us relax, these songs have been on repeat lately. We hope they inspire you too!

May is a time of transition. The world is waking up, everything is growing and there’s this feeling of hope in the air. But this song is a reminder that not everyone gets to experience that same sense of renewal. While some of us are making summer plans and enjoying longer days, others are just trying to survive. The beat of “Living Darfur” by Mattafix is uplifting, almost hypnotic, but the lyrics tell a different story. One of struggle, resilience and the harsh realities so many people face. It’s a song that makes me stop and think, to appreciate what I have and to remember that beyond my own little world, there are stories that need to be heard.

Whenever I hear Mondo Bongo by Joe Strummer, it instantly makes me think of summer nights. The mellow beat and easy vibe just put me in the mood for those laid-back evenings. I can almost picture myself at a barbecue in our cockpit, everyone sharing stories, laughing and that perfect warm breeze. It’s that simple, carefree summer feeling that’s hard to beat.

Every time Tadow by Masego comes on, I can’t help but vibe with it. It’s got this smooth, effortless groove that just makes everything feel chill. I love how it mixes jazz and funk in such a laid-back way. THE perfect track to unwind. The extended version makes it even better, stretching out the vibe and letting me get lost in the rhythm.

I love the live version of Moonshine Got Me by Daniel Norgren because it feels so raw and real. His voice, a little rough but full of soul, paired with the live energy, just hits differently. Plug in a good speaker or put on some headphones, press play and let yourself get lost in the moment.

Green Mountain State from Trevor Hall has this peaceful, earthy vibe that mirrors the way everything starts blooming and coming alive again. I love how the gentle guitar and his soulful voice create a sense of calm and connection, like you’re walking barefoot through spring. It’s the perfect soundtrack for those slow mornings, golden evenings or road trips with the windows down. For me, May feels like the heart of renewal and this song captures that energy perfectly.

For more inspiration: Listen to El Burro Radio on Spotify!

Bucket List Island Getaways

Over the past few months and years, we’ve had the chance to visit some amazing islands. From peaceful, uninhabited spots in the Netherlands to sunny escapes in Greece, and of course the famous shores of Ibiza and Mallorca, each place had its own special vibe.

In this section, we’re sharing some of the islands we’ve checked out. Whether you’re planning a trip or just curious about island life, we hope this roundup gives you some ideas.

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🇮🇹 Italy

❀ Lipari & Isola di Vulcano (Aeolian Islands): These volcanic islands, just north of Sicily, are all about stunning landscapes and rugged coastlines. We cruised around Lipari by dinghy and hiked up the active crater on Vulcano. Both were incredible! We didn’t have time to check out the other Aeolian Islands this time, but they’re definitely on our list for next time.

❀ Sicily: Italy’s biggest island, Sicily is full of history, culture and that classic Mediterranean charm. Some of the highlights include the beach town of Mondello, the cute streets of Cefalù and the ancient city of Siracusa. If you’re into nature, a hike around Capo Bianco and the Foce del Fiume Platani is totally worth it.

❀ Sardinia & Carloforte: Sardinia, the second-biggest island in the Mediterranean, is known for its rugged coast, crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes. We sailed along the east and south coasts, stopping at a bunch of beautiful bays, each with its own vibe. Off the southwest coast is San Pietro Island, home to the town of Carloforte. This small, colorful fishing town was founded by Ligurian settlers and you can still see their influence in the local dialect and food. Carloforte has such a laid-back vibe, amazing seafood (definitely try the tuna) and charming narrow streets by the water.

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🇫🇷 France

❀ Porquerolles: The biggest of the Îles d’Hyères, Porquerolles is a chill island just off the French Riviera. It’s known for its sandy beaches, clear waters and protected nature spots. There’s also a beautiful botanical garden with tons of flowers and plants to check out. Whether you’re into cycling, swimming or just kicking back and taking in the Mediterranean views, it’s the perfect place to relax.

❀ Île Ratonneau & Île de Riou: Just outside Marseille, these islands are part of the Frioul archipelago. They’ve got stunning coastal views, clear waters and some cool historical spots. Perfect for a day trip where you can go for a nature walk, take a swim and check out a bit of local history.

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🇪🇸 Spain

❀ Mallorca, Ibiza, Formentera, Cabrera: The Balearic Islands are known for their mix of stunning nature, rich culture and lively vibes. Mallorca is the biggest, with beautiful beaches, cute villages and mountains perfect for hiking. Ibiza is famous for its nightlife, but luckily there are also plenty of chill spots to relax by the beach and take in the views. Formentera is much smaller and super laid-back, with clear, turquoise waters. Cabrera is a protected national park, perfect for nature lovers who want to see wildlife up close. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore or dive into the local culture, these islands have something for everyone.

❀ Tabarca: Just off the coast of Alicante, Tabarca is Spain’s smallest island. It’s famous for its marine reserve, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming in the clear, protected waters.

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🇬🇷 Greece

❀ Othonoi, Ereikoussa, Atokos, Kastos: These islands in the Ionian Sea are super chill and peaceful, perfect for a more relaxed vibe. With stunning scenery and a calm atmosphere, they’re great for anyone looking to escape the tourist crowds and explore at their own pace.

❀ Kythnos, Sifnos, Milos: These Cycladic islands are all about traditional Greek architecture, a laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. Each one has its own charm, with whitewashed buildings, clear waters and a chill atmosphere. Perfect for a peaceful getaway.

❀ Crete (including Dia Island & Spinalonga): Crete, Greece’s biggest island, is packed with history and stunning landscapes. Off the coast, Dia Island is deserted and has a bit of a mysterious vibe, making its quiet trails feel extra special. Spinalonga is a small island with a lot of history. It’s famous for its 16th-century Venetian fortress, built to protect against pirate attacks. The island’s history took a darker turn in the 20th century when it became a leper colony in 1903, isolating people with leprosy for over 50 years. It’s a must-see if you’re into history.

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🇳🇱 The Netherlands

❀ Tiengemeten (Haringvliet): Tiengemeten, covering about 11 km² in the Haringvliet estuary, has been left mostly to nature since 2007. What used to be farmland is now a mix of reed beds, salt marshes, wildflower meadows and young woodlands. It’s full of wildlife like deer, foxes, hares and tons of birds, making it a total paradise for nature lovers.

❀ Grevelingenmeer Islands (Veermansplaat, Hompelvoet, Dwars door de Weg):These three islands are right in the middle of Grevelingenmeer, Europe’s largest saltwater lake, and are perfect for anyone who loves being on the water. You can drop anchor in one of the calm bays, tie up to a pontoon and spend the day swimming, snorkelling, hiking or just chilling in the sun.

❀ Haringvreter (Veerse Meer): Haringvreter in the Veerse Meer is all about peace and nature. It’s a great spot to unplug and enjoy the calm. The island has a small group of deer that roam freely through the dense greenery and open fields, adding a bit of wildlife magic to the place.

How We’re Turning Our Boat into an Off-Grid Home

During the recent major blackout in Spain and Portugal, we weren’t directly impacted, but we were incredibly grateful for our self-sufficient setup. Converting our boat into an off-grid home has been such an exciting adventure. Our goal is to build a space where we can live independently, without depending on marinas or conventional power sources. Here’s how we’re making it all come to life:

Solar Panels: First thing we did was set up solar panels. They’re essential for powering everything on the boat. We use them to keep the lights on, charge our devices and run most of our appliances without needing shore power. We’ve got them positioned where they get the most sun (and where we had some space to place them) and we’re careful to use energy-efficient devices so we’re making the most of the power we’re generating.

Watermaker: We’ve recently added a watermaker to the boat and it’s already making a huge difference. It turns seawater into fresh water, so we don’t have to worry about running out or constantly stopping at ports to fill up. Since it’s brand new, we’ve been extra careful to get it set up properly and maintain it, but it’s already been a total game-changer. It makes us much more self-sufficient and it’s one more step toward fully living off the grid on the water.

Diesel Heater for the Cold Months: When the temperature drops, the diesel heater (Taylor Diesel 079D) has been a lifesaver. We didn’t want to rely on electric heaters that would drain the battery, so this one keeps us warm without using up all our solar power. It’s efficient and works like a charm for those colder days when you want to stay cozy on the boat.

Making the Boat Feel Like Home: It’s not just about power and water, we’re also focusing on making the boat feel like a real home. We’ve started growing our own food onboard and it’s been surprisingly easy. Fresh sprouts are a must and we’ve even grown peppers, tomatoes and salads. It’s really satisfying to have fresh food onboard and it just adds to the sense of independence.

Turning the boat into an off-grid home has been all about creating a space where we don’t have to depend on anything outside. It’s been a process, but every step we take makes us feel more at home on the water.

Little joys / favourite moments

I wanted to share a few of the small moments that made last month feel special, so here are some of my favourite bits and pieces from the month. I hope they bring a smile to your face, too!

𖤓 Our sail to Pollença: We were in the mood for a change of scenery, so we decided to sail to the next bay for a few days. It felt amazing to be out on the water again, just enjoying the views along the way.

𖤓 We got a watermaker: Fresh water whenever we want it! Game-changer.

𖤓 Lunch at Stevie’s boat: Great food, great company, lots of laughs.

𖤓 First barbecue on board: Always fun grilling and eating something with the sea as our backdrop.

𖤓 The long hike, including the barbecue to Coll Baix: Tough hike but totally worth it for the views and the BBQ.

𖤓 Solo hike to Albufera: Just me, a trail and some quiet time to think.

𖤓 Helping fellow sailors: Huge shoutout to Greg and Lluis, the real heroes of the bay. It always feels good to lend a hand when someone’s in need on the water.

𖤓 Apéro’s in the cockpit: Relaxing evenings with a drink in hand and the sun setting on the horizon.

𖤓 Feeding the fish with our cat Finn: It’s become one of our favorite little rituals. Finn loves watching the fish swim by while we toss a little food into the water. It’s a simple moment, but it always makes us smile.

𖤓 Our unexpected Instagram growth: I honestly didn’t see it coming, but wow, I’m so grateful. The support has been overwhelming and I’m just beyond words. It’s amazing to see this little community grow, and I can’t thank everyone enough for being part of it!

New episode highlights

After months at anchor, it was finally time for our first longer sailing trip. But it went differently than expected. This first trip immediately threw us back into the raw reality of being a sailor.

Ask us anything

Got questions about sailing, travel or life on the water? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment to this blog and we’ll happily answer all your questions. If anyone wants to mention anything or share a story, feel free!
We’d be more than happy to hear about other people’s adventures.”