There’s a saying that you should never revisit places that you have enjoyed in the past as what you find may disappoint you. Yesterday this piece of advice was proved to be totally wrong. Twenty-three years since we sold La Aventura she was back in her home waters, and Gwenda and I went to visit her at Gosport, in the south of England.
La Aventura docked in Gosport
James and Patti Hunt, an Australian couple, who used to run a pub in London, had bought her in 1995 planning to set off on a world voyage. In the process they visited over 70 countries, had innumerable adventures and assured me that they would never have had such an enjoyable experience had it not been for what they still believe to be the perfectly designed cruising boat.
Their comments filled my heart with joy as, after our first round the world voyage, I had attempted to conceive the safest and most comfortable cruising boat for my second planned circumnavigation. Visiting her yesterday I realised that I had indeed achieved my aim and, as I walked around my old love, I was impressed by all the many details that can go on into her make-up. After all these years, I could hardly find any fault with her.
One of La Aventura’s most original features is the comfortable lounge in the aft area.
What made me happiest of all was that after all the thousands of miles they had sailed in her, Patti and James fully shared my enthusiasm.
Unfortunately every dream eventually comes to an end and for Patti and James the time has come to part with their beloved La Aventura. She is now for sale at the Royal Clarence Marina in Gosport. The price is very reasonable and full details are outlined in the document available to download here: https://cornellsailing.com/wp-content/uploads/downloads/LA-AVENTURA-Specifications.pdf
Anyone who would like to contact them should send an email to 4sale.laaventura@gmail.com
My favourite photos of La Aventura (in her old colours):
Start of ARC 1989
At Islas Desertas, Madeira
At Fatu Hiva in the Marquesas
