Solar Blue

Bavaria 49

Length
15.4 m/51 ft

Monohull

Sail

Description

Recommendations

Jonn & Tassy received 21 recommendations from members

24 Mar 22:37 from Teresa, 56, female Account ID: 315540 I spent 12 beautiful days with Tass and John aboard their yacht. We sailed from island to island, some isolated and some populated. We went from Krabi, Thailand to Langkawi, Malaysia and back. Tass is a great at teaching how to furl and trim sails, raise and lower the anchor, and get the kayaks and dinghy safely in and out of the water. She cooks amazing Thai food and managed to have plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit. She even showed me how to make spring rolls. John provided ample time at the helm and instruction on the electronic navigation system. He doesn't micromanage which makes learning easier and less stressful. He gladly showed me some basic engine maintenance and shared many tips for ocean crossings and cruising. The other crew were easy going, and we had many lively and in depth discussions. The snorkeling was the best I've ever seen. There was time to swim, snorkel, hike, and have an onshore cocktail in the evening. Sadly there was virtually no wind for the entire trip so we mostly motored from island to island.

16 Mar 02:56 from Oleg, 46, male Account ID: 329108 It was amazing trip in Thailand. We have visited many beautiful places in Andamans. John and Tassy are very kind and interesting persons.

09 Mar 14:05 from Ben, 29, male Account ID: 328533 We sailed with John and Tassy between Phuket and Krabi through the inner and outer islands. Our experience couldn't have been better! John is a remarquable teacher with loads of patience to explain and repeat everything you want to know about the boat. Tassy is an impressive first class crew who jumps all around the boat to prepare and assist every maneuvers. She is the boss inside the boat from where she cooks amazing thai food. Thank you so much for this amazing experience. We really hope to sail with you two again. Ann and Benjamin

11 Feb 15:22 from Hels, 53, female Account ID: 306463 I had a fantastic experience sailing with John and Tassy on their yacht. I learned a great deal about sailing but also had many opportunities to explore and snorkel the islands of Southern Thailand. We ate fantastic Thai food prepared by Tassy and both crew members were great. Thank you John and Tassy

31 Jan 2018 from Lucio, 27, male Account ID: 290197 Go Go Go!!!!!!! These two are amazing!!! We have been sailing on their yacht during 1 month in the andaman sea and I have no words to describe how happy they made us!! Not only relaxing but eating A LOT!! Tess I already miss your spring rolls! And John is a fantastic captain that teach us a lot about sailing and life. If you have the opportunity of getting aboard don’t miss it! They are the perfect combination of incredible histories and enthusiastic activities!! Please don’t forget to dance bang bang boomerang with Tess!!! Lucio & Oscar

19 Jan 2018 from Peter, 37, male Account ID: 306026 We joined 8 days and had an amazing time together in the Andaman Sea. Rule #1: Relax! Overall it was a great mixture of island exploration, snorkling and learning about all aspects of sailing. John was very open to share his deep knowledge and Tass suprised with springrolls and banana cake. From the first day on there was a family-like atmosphere on the boat. We had a really good time.

23 Dec 2017 from Gui, 39, male Account ID: 285939 I spent 28 days travelling with John and Tassy from Thailand to Malaysia crossing beautiful places and island on our way. It was a worderful and funny experience with a group of new amazing friends and I learned a lot about sailing and the sealife. John is a very clever capitain, he has a strong background about the life and the sea and he's very open to share your knowledge. Tassy is a very kind person, a great Thai cook, she takes care about the crew and the stuffs to support us. Thank you for the experience and to share the amazing time with me.

01 Apr 2017 from Philippe, 51, male Account ID: 289088 I spent 25 days with John and Tassy on their boat sailing to the many beautiful islands between Phuket, Ao Nang, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi. I wanted to get more sea experience before buying a boat and sailing on my own for a communication project with dolphins. John is a very experienced seafarer and always ready to share his experience. He gave me great advice. I could not have been better prepared. John and Tassy's boat has several cabins. If you simply plan to make holidays, spend a good time, meet new friends, enjoy living on the ocean, discover islands and nature off the track, don't hesitate. You will have a great time with them.

06 Feb 2017 from Kun, 33, male Account ID: 254962 I'm the first Chinese/Asian crew ever on this yacht! I will probably become a professional sailor someday after spending 2 wonderful weeks with John and Tassy. LOL. (OK..Just a dream) This is my second sailing and the start of really knowing the boat and principle of sailing. John and Tassy taught me a lot, with Australian/Thai English (no offense lol) and huge patience. The 2 weeks trip made me loving sailing, either as a lifestyle or sport. It inspired me to live a healthier lifestyle the ambition to sail more and to see the world. Staying on the boat didn't only mean we only expect joy or fun ( we did a lot of kayaking, dingy trip, snorkeling, swimming and sightseeing!!! ) but also the unpredictable bad thing from the nature which is more like an attitude and a practice of life . Everyone of us was part of the team and we learned and contributed as much as we can, everyone should watch the weather, current, wind and the status of the boat to make sure all of us are good. We also take care of each other like a family. We talked, we shared opinions, we watch movie together and we drink together. BTW, Tassy's cooking is awesome, i love her Thai cuisine especially when she put chilies.. All the best to John and Tassy and i will try to make a long trip with you in the future. I have to!

14 May 2016 from Roy, 35, male Account ID: 257119 John john john, I have spent nearly three months on your boat and without any hesitation I can say that it kinda changed my life. If you look for someone with Mac Gyver skills when it comes to fixing stuff John is your man, that guy can turn a empty toilet roll and a piece of string into a radio. That is what you need when you are on the sea, creativity that can turn difficult situations around in to something good. It can ease ones mind out on sea. Next to this john has sailed the world, is patient and happy to teach you how to sail, great I learned so much from him! Tassy!!!! I miss you, and I miss the food! Tass is such a delight, a trustworthy person with a heart of gold. Knows a lot about sailing herself. I wanted some people who obviously could teach me how to sail and take me to some great places. They did that and it was a blast. But I think what stands out more is their open heart and open mind, I learned a lot from them, and as we say in the Netherlands, this trip "kan je met geen pen beschrijven" which roughly means that our are experiences cannot be put on paper. But when you are on the boat, do ask John, I recon he is happy to share. Go explore and join this boat!

30 Dec 2015 from Murray, 63, male Account ID: 205240 Dec15 Just finished an absolutely wonderful 7 wk. sail from Pattaya to Johor Bharu on S/V Solar Blue. The boat is comfortable but the real story are skipper Jonno and partner Tassy. Their empathy, patience and skills are truly exemplary! Thanx you 2 from the bottom of my heart.... Highly recommended. Murray, Canada

28 Sep 2015 from Matt, 33, male Account ID: 261861 We sailed with John for three weeks from Ambon to Bali, and it was the highlight of a three-month trip. John is an excellent sailor, a patient teacher, an interesting person, and great company. My girlfriend and I were both novice sailors when we joined his yacht, and we felt we had learned quite a lot within only three weeks--not just about sailing, but about the yachtie lifestyle! If you get a chance to sail with John, and especially if you're interested in learning the ropes, go for it! We had a blast, and would definitely love to join his yacht again in the future.

05 Dec 2014 from Maria, 38, female Account ID: 223528 I just got off his boat in Cairns. I sailed with John and Tasse 2600nm from Fiji to Australia via Vanuatu and New Caledonia. It was a wonderful time and I recommend him as a skipper and knowledgeable man ;-) We experienced so much together like the active volcano on Tanna in Vanuatu and the shipyard in Townsville. As former recommendations I don't have to repeat everything what you can learn about sailing and yourself on an ocean crossing. But John makes it easy for you to understand everything and adapt it. We had many laughs on the boat; it was just a wonderful atmosphere!!!

05 Dec 2014 from Lovise, 47, female Account ID: 222298 I have just spent 3,5 months on John's boat from Fiji to Australia, and it was great! For personal reasons, I had to leave the boat earlier than I thought, other wise I would have love to continue my trip on his boat. I have sailed with many skippers, and I think John is one of the best I have met. He leads the boat with calm and a natural leadership. And something very rare among skippers: he never shouts on his crew, never, even if you messed up. The boat is safe and confortable, and I really appreciate to have my own cabin. I hope you will be as lucky as me to have the chance to meet this man of great knowledge and sense of humour. Enjoy!!

07 Aug 2014 from Militza, 39, female Account ID: 232611 I had a wonderful time sailing with John in French Polynesia for one month in June 2014. The boat is beautiful and offers a lot of space and comfort and John was a professional and careful captain. He didn't even complain of my experimental cooking;) I learned a lot about sailing and life on a boat and I plan to keep in touch and come back sailing on this boat!

12 Jun 2014 from Tomasz, 57, male Account ID: 225779 I was lucky to sail with John and Tassy from Gibraltar to Morocco in October 2013 and this has been a fantastic and very enriching experience for me. Both were a pleasure to interact with and great crew members and fantastic companions. John is a marvelous captain, bright, open-minded, curious about many aspects of life and happy to share his points of view but interested in others so a discussion with John is always interesting. Experienced sailor and captain, ready to share his vast knowledge, being a patient teacher. John has a great sense of humor and remains positive even in trying moments, a great personality. I can only recommend John as a captain and would always join his team again. Tomasz

05 Dec 2013 from Sarah, 48, female Account ID: 232051 Captain John is great! This was my first time sailing in open water-ever and Captain John has inspired me to continue to pursue life on the water! Captain is a true captain; his sailing knowledge is incredible, he is professional yet casual and down to earth, and his patience and sense of humour worthy of an award. Captain took the time to help me understand the basics of both the 'why' and the 'how' of sailing techniques. As a 'newbie' crew member, I am thankful Captain was so encouraging and supportive during my learning curve over the 10 day sailing adventure. In addition, Tass, the super woman, is an incredible first mate and cook. I had no idea how much I liked Thai food! Tass took such great care of us, she tirelessliy took care of the crew with a smile-a treasure to have alongside the Captain. I would absolutely join Captain John & Tass to sail again anywhere in the world and will encourage others to do so as well. Thank you & miss you both! ~Sarah

19 Sep 2013 from David, 36, male Account ID: 229542 I met John in my first sailing experience from Athens crossing Korinthos canal and other islands to Corfu (Greece). I had such a great time that I will remember it forever, sailing at night and sunrise for instance... John is very witty, friendly and outgoing and very attentive as well as considerate with crew who is trying to learn and improve their skills. It was really nice to learn about his sailing experience and have other interesting conversations. Hope you also will know Tassy, so friendly woman that it makes the life in the Vessel even better. I think he is a great person in all meanings (person, captain,...) so don´t hesitate to contact him if you are looking to an unforgettable sailing!

18 Sep 2013 from David, 36, male Account ID: 229542 I met John in my first sailing experience from Athens crossing Korinthos canal and other islands to Corfu (Greece). I had such a great time that I will remember it forever, sailing at night and sunrise for instance... John is very witty, friendly and outgoing and very attentive as well as considerate with crew who is trying to learn and improve their skills. It was really nice to learn about his sailing experience and have other interesting conversations. Hope you also will know Tassy, so friendly woman that it makes the life in the vessel even better. I think he is a great person in all meanings (person, captain,...) so don´t hesitate to contact him if you are looking to an unforgettable sailing!

13 Sep 2013 from Matt, 40, male Account ID: 228559 I spent 5 days on board John's yacht sailing from Athens to Corfu. I'll never forget it...high winds, beautiful anchorages, night sailing and even dolphins at sunset. John and Tassy are a very nice couple that make you feel very welcome, relaxed and (most importantly) safe. The boat is thoroughly kitted out and a pleasure to sail. John is a great teacher, and also very relaxed, which is particularly good for those of us looking to skipper a boat. Make sure to catch him before he makes it back to Australia!

12 Aug 2013 from Nadya, 30, female Account ID: 223948 John is a very experienced skipper, a real master of sailing. Besides that, he's a talented teacher and very unconflictive person, passionate explorer, good friend. Me and my teammate, we've sailed with John for two weeks in different weather conditions and really liked him and his style of sailing: ancorages in beautiful places (with possible diving / snorkelling), mooring in marinas if needed, overnight sailing... Positive, friendly and gifted skipper with a nice boat! =)

Additional details

Recommendations

24 Mar 22:37 from Teresa, 56, female Account ID: 315540 I spent 12 beautiful days with Tass and John aboard their yacht. We sailed from island to island, some isolated and some populated. We went from Krabi, Thailand to Langkawi, Malaysia and back. Tass is a great at teaching how to furl and trim sails, raise and lower the anchor, and get the kayaks and dinghy safely in and out of the water. She cooks amazing Thai food and managed to have plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit. She even showed me how to make spring rolls. John provided ample time at the helm and instruction on the electronic navigation system. He doesn't micromanage which makes learning easier and less stressful. He gladly showed me some basic engine maintenance and shared many tips for ocean crossings and cruising. The other crew were easy going, and we had many lively and in depth discussions. The snorkeling was the best I've ever seen. There was time to swim, snorkel, hike, and have an onshore cocktail in the evening. Sadly there was virtually no wind for the entire trip so we mostly motored from island to island. 16 Mar 02:56 from Oleg, 46, male Account ID: 329108 It was amazing trip in Thailand. We have visited many beautiful places in Andamans. John and Tassy are very kind and interesting persons. 09 Mar 14:05 from Ben, 29, male Account ID: 328533 We sailed with John and Tassy between Phuket and Krabi through the inner and outer islands. Our experience couldn't have been better! John is a remarquable teacher with loads of patience to explain and repeat everything you want to know about the boat. Tassy is an impressive first class crew who jumps all around the boat to prepare and assist every maneuvers. She is the boss inside the boat from where she cooks amazing thai food. Thank you so much for this amazing experience. We really hope to sail with you two again. Ann and Benjamin 11 Feb 15:22 from Hels, 53, female Account ID: 306463 I had a fantastic experience sailing with John and Tassy on their yacht. I learned a great deal about sailing but also had many opportunities to explore and snorkel the islands of Southern Thailand. We ate fantastic Thai food prepared by Tassy and both crew members were great. Thank you John and Tassy 31 Jan 2018 from Lucio, 27, male Account ID: 290197 Go Go Go!!!!!!! These two are amazing!!! We have been sailing on their yacht during 1 month in the andaman sea and I have no words to describe how happy they made us!! Not only relaxing but eating A LOT!! Tess I already miss your spring rolls! And John is a fantastic captain that teach us a lot about sailing and life. If you have the opportunity of getting aboard don’t miss it! They are the perfect combination of incredible histories and enthusiastic activities!! Please don’t forget to dance bang bang boomerang with Tess!!! Lucio & Oscar 19 Jan 2018 from Peter, 37, male Account ID: 306026 We joined 8 days and had an amazing time together in the Andaman Sea. Rule #1: Relax! Overall it was a great mixture of island exploration, snorkling and learning about all aspects of sailing. John was very open to share his deep knowledge and Tass suprised with springrolls and banana cake. From the first day on there was a family-like atmosphere on the boat. We had a really good time. 23 Dec 2017 from Gui, 39, male Account ID: 285939 I spent 28 days travelling with John and Tassy from Thailand to Malaysia crossing beautiful places and island on our way. It was a worderful and funny experience with a group of new amazing friends and I learned a lot about sailing and the sealife. John is a very clever capitain, he has a strong background about the life and the sea and he's very open to share your knowledge. Tassy is a very kind person, a great Thai cook, she takes care about the crew and the stuffs to support us. Thank you for the experience and to share the amazing time with me. 01 Apr 2017 from Philippe, 51, male Account ID: 289088 I spent 25 days with John and Tassy on their boat sailing to the many beautiful islands between Phuket, Ao Nang, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi. I wanted to get more sea experience before buying a boat and sailing on my own for a communication project with dolphins. John is a very experienced seafarer and always ready to share his experience. He gave me great advice. I could not have been better prepared. John and Tassy's boat has several cabins. If you simply plan to make holidays, spend a good time, meet new friends, enjoy living on the ocean, discover islands and nature off the track, don't hesitate. You will have a great time with them. 06 Feb 2017 from Kun, 33, male Account ID: 254962 I'm the first Chinese/Asian crew ever on this yacht! I will probably become a professional sailor someday after spending 2 wonderful weeks with John and Tassy. LOL. (OK..Just a dream) This is my second sailing and the start of really knowing the boat and principle of sailing. John and Tassy taught me a lot, with Australian/Thai English (no offense lol) and huge patience. The 2 weeks trip made me loving sailing, either as a lifestyle or sport. It inspired me to live a healthier lifestyle the ambition to sail more and to see the world. Staying on the boat didn't only mean we only expect joy or fun ( we did a lot of kayaking, dingy trip, snorkeling, swimming and sightseeing!!! ) but also the unpredictable bad thing from the nature which is more like an attitude and a practice of life . Everyone of us was part of the team and we learned and contributed as much as we can, everyone should watch the weather, current, wind and the status of the boat to make sure all of us are good. We also take care of each other like a family. We talked, we shared opinions, we watch movie together and we drink together. BTW, Tassy's cooking is awesome, i love her Thai cuisine especially when she put chilies.. All the best to John and Tassy and i will try to make a long trip with you in the future. I have to! 14 May 2016 from Roy, 35, male Account ID: 257119 John john john, I have spent nearly three months on your boat and without any hesitation I can say that it kinda changed my life. If you look for someone with Mac Gyver skills when it comes to fixing stuff John is your man, that guy can turn a empty toilet roll and a piece of string into a radio. That is what you need when you are on the sea, creativity that can turn difficult situations around in to something good. It can ease ones mind out on sea. Next to this john has sailed the world, is patient and happy to teach you how to sail, great I learned so much from him! Tassy!!!! I miss you, and I miss the food! Tass is such a delight, a trustworthy person with a heart of gold. Knows a lot about sailing herself. I wanted some people who obviously could teach me how to sail and take me to some great places. They did that and it was a blast. But I think what stands out more is their open heart and open mind, I learned a lot from them, and as we say in the Netherlands, this trip "kan je met geen pen beschrijven" which roughly means that our are experiences cannot be put on paper. But when you are on the boat, do ask John, I recon he is happy to share. Go explore and join this boat! 30 Dec 2015 from Murray, 63, male Account ID: 205240 Dec15 Just finished an absolutely wonderful 7 wk. sail from Pattaya to Johor Bharu on S/V Solar Blue. The boat is comfortable but the real story are skipper Jonno and partner Tassy. Their empathy, patience and skills are truly exemplary! Thanx you 2 from the bottom of my heart.... Highly recommended. Murray, Canada 28 Sep 2015 from Matt, 33, male Account ID: 261861 We sailed with John for three weeks from Ambon to Bali, and it was the highlight of a three-month trip. John is an excellent sailor, a patient teacher, an interesting person, and great company. My girlfriend and I were both novice sailors when we joined his yacht, and we felt we had learned quite a lot within only three weeks--not just about sailing, but about the yachtie lifestyle! If you get a chance to sail with John, and especially if you're interested in learning the ropes, go for it! We had a blast, and would definitely love to join his yacht again in the future. 05 Dec 2014 from Maria, 38, female Account ID: 223528 I just got off his boat in Cairns. I sailed with John and Tasse 2600nm from Fiji to Australia via Vanuatu and New Caledonia. It was a wonderful time and I recommend him as a skipper and knowledgeable man ;-) We experienced so much together like the active volcano on Tanna in Vanuatu and the shipyard in Townsville. As former recommendations I don't have to repeat everything what you can learn about sailing and yourself on an ocean crossing. But John makes it easy for you to understand everything and adapt it. We had many laughs on the boat; it was just a wonderful atmosphere!!! 05 Dec 2014 from Lovise, 47, female Account ID: 222298 I have just spent 3,5 months on John's boat from Fiji to Australia, and it was great! For personal reasons, I had to leave the boat earlier than I thought, other wise I would have love to continue my trip on his boat. I have sailed with many skippers, and I think John is one of the best I have met. He leads the boat with calm and a natural leadership. And something very rare among skippers: he never shouts on his crew, never, even if you messed up. The boat is safe and confortable, and I really appreciate to have my own cabin. I hope you will be as lucky as me to have the chance to meet this man of great knowledge and sense of humour. Enjoy!! 07 Aug 2014 from Militza, 39, female Account ID: 232611 I had a wonderful time sailing with John in French Polynesia for one month in June 2014. The boat is beautiful and offers a lot of space and comfort and John was a professional and careful captain. He didn't even complain of my experimental cooking;) I learned a lot about sailing and life on a boat and I plan to keep in touch and come back sailing on this boat! 12 Jun 2014 from Tomasz, 57, male Account ID: 225779 I was lucky to sail with John and Tassy from Gibraltar to Morocco in October 2013 and this has been a fantastic and very enriching experience for me. Both were a pleasure to interact with and great crew members and fantastic companions. John is a marvelous captain, bright, open-minded, curious about many aspects of life and happy to share his points of view but interested in others so a discussion with John is always interesting. Experienced sailor and captain, ready to share his vast knowledge, being a patient teacher. John has a great sense of humor and remains positive even in trying moments, a great personality. I can only recommend John as a captain and would always join his team again. Tomasz 05 Dec 2013 from Sarah, 48, female Account ID: 232051 Captain John is great! This was my first time sailing in open water-ever and Captain John has inspired me to continue to pursue life on the water! Captain is a true captain; his sailing knowledge is incredible, he is professional yet casual and down to earth, and his patience and sense of humour worthy of an award. Captain took the time to help me understand the basics of both the 'why' and the 'how' of sailing techniques. As a 'newbie' crew member, I am thankful Captain was so encouraging and supportive during my learning curve over the 10 day sailing adventure. In addition, Tass, the super woman, is an incredible first mate and cook. I had no idea how much I liked Thai food! Tass took such great care of us, she tirelessliy took care of the crew with a smile-a treasure to have alongside the Captain. I would absolutely join Captain John & Tass to sail again anywhere in the world and will encourage others to do so as well. Thank you & miss you both! ~Sarah 19 Sep 2013 from David, 36, male Account ID: 229542 I met John in my first sailing experience from Athens crossing Korinthos canal and other islands to Corfu (Greece). I had such a great time that I will remember it forever, sailing at night and sunrise for instance... John is very witty, friendly and outgoing and very attentive as well as considerate with crew who is trying to learn and improve their skills. It was really nice to learn about his sailing experience and have other interesting conversations. Hope you also will know Tassy, so friendly woman that it makes the life in the Vessel even better. I think he is a great person in all meanings (person, captain,...) so don´t hesitate to contact him if you are looking to an unforgettable sailing! 18 Sep 2013 from David, 36, male Account ID: 229542 I met John in my first sailing experience from Athens crossing Korinthos canal and other islands to Corfu (Greece). I had such a great time that I will remember it forever, sailing at night and sunrise for instance... John is very witty, friendly and outgoing and very attentive as well as considerate with crew who is trying to learn and improve their skills. It was really nice to learn about his sailing experience and have other interesting conversations. Hope you also will know Tassy, so friendly woman that it makes the life in the vessel even better. I think he is a great person in all meanings (person, captain,...) so don´t hesitate to contact him if you are looking to an unforgettable sailing! 13 Sep 2013 from Matt, 40, male Account ID: 228559 I spent 5 days on board John's yacht sailing from Athens to Corfu. I'll never forget it...high winds, beautiful anchorages, night sailing and even dolphins at sunset. John and Tassy are a very nice couple that make you feel very welcome, relaxed and (most importantly) safe. The boat is thoroughly kitted out and a pleasure to sail. John is a great teacher, and also very relaxed, which is particularly good for those of us looking to skipper a boat. Make sure to catch him before he makes it back to Australia! 12 Aug 2013 from Nadya, 30, female Account ID: 223948 John is a very experienced skipper, a real master of sailing. Besides that, he's a talented teacher and very unconflictive person, passionate explorer, good friend. Me and my teammate, we've sailed with John for two weeks in different weather conditions and really liked him and his style of sailing: ancorages in beautiful places (with possible diving / snorkelling), mooring in marinas if needed, overnight sailing... Positive, friendly and gifted skipper with a nice boat! =)

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