City Hall of San Fernando La Union, The Philippines

(April 13 – 20, 2026) San Fernando, La Union is quite a long name for a city, but the “La Union” part helps distinguish it from another city named San Fernando. After being isolated at sea for two weeks, I absolutely loved the vibrant energy of the fresh market and the local restaurants.

This city seems to be the largest in the northern region of the island, and it is bustling with people. My favorite way to get around was by tricycle taxi, the main form of public transportation here.

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Three Friendly Coast Guards on a local fishing boat approached us in the waters off Camiguin Island, Philippines

(March 29 – April 13, 2026) Before leaving Guam, a fellow sailor told me about the Kuroshio Current (also known as the “Black” or “Japan” Current). Much like the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic, this current can add or subtract over 3 knots to your speed. By riding it, we maintained a fast moving average of 7.2 knots as we approached the northern Philippines.

After seven days at sea, we reached the first islands of the Philippines and decided to anchor for a rest.

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