The Difference Between Excitement and Enjoyment.

One thing that years at sea gradually changes is your perspective on speed.

There is no doubt that fast yachts can be exciting. During sea trials, flat calm weather, or short coastal runs, high performance can feel incredibly impressive. In the right conditions - it absolutely is!

But the difference between excitement and long-term enjoyment at sea is often greater than people initially expect.

After some time on the water, many owners begin to value different things. Comfort in changing conditions; reduced fatigue after a long day motoring; noise levels; stability at anchor; ease of movement onboard; the ability to continue enjoying the experience when the weather becomes less cooperative.

A luxury yacht named Alpha Phi sailing on calm water near a shoreline with houses and trees under a clear blue sky.
A white yacht sailing on calm blue water, with a distant mountain range in the background under a clear sky.
A white yacht sailing on calm blue water, with a distant mountain range in the background under a clear sky.

Some of the most enjoyable voyages I have experienced were not necessarily the fastest.

They were the ones where the vessel felt settled, capable, comfortable and suited to the environment around it.

This feel especially relevant now, with growing interest in longer-range expedition style cruising. Places like Alaska, Patagonia, Greenland and the Chilean fjords quickly remind you that the sea rarely cares about brochure conditions.

Excitement is important. That feeling you get inside with the initial acceleration.

But enjoyment is usually what brings people back to sea again and again.

A white yacht sailing on calm blue water with distant mountains under a clear sky.
Luxury yacht docked at marina during sunset with other sailboats and yachts in the background.
A white yacht named Alpha Phi is sailing on a body of water with a person standing on the upper deck and a shoreline with houses and trees in the background.