She Sets Sail

A PROGRAM DESIGNED TO EMPOWER WOMEN

The She Sets Sail initiative is a program that supports women of all ages to gain confidence, independence, and valuable skills on the water through single-handing sailing - no matter where I am in the world!

Join me for an adventurous sailing experience

“From the moment Ruby greeted me with a warm hug at the tiny airport, I knew I had made the right choice. Settling into Makani felt like stepping into a different rhythm of life. She’s more than a boat — she carries an energy and presence that reflect Ruby’s love and care. My cabin was perfectly cozy, and I’ll always remember the melodic soundscape outside my porthole: waves lapping, roosters crowing, birds calling, fish dancing. Each morning brought something new, depending on where we had sailed the previous day. The nights were equally unforgettable — quiet, serene, under a full moon or skies blanketed with stars.

Ruby herself is an extraordinary captain and teacher. She is strong, intelligent, passionate, and deeply encouraging. Ruby saw potential in me even when I doubted myself. Her teaching style is detailed and repetitive in the best way, helping me build muscle memory until I felt more confident with every task. To feel secure in the middle of the ocean is a gift, and she created an environment where I could ask for what I needed, take risks, and grow.

“From the moment we set sail, Ruby established an environment of both challenge and support. Her expertise is vast, but her true gift lies in her ability to empower her students with humor and patience. She patiently guided me through advanced sailing techniques and practical decision making. I wanted to learn how to set up and use a preventer for safe and stable downwind sailing. This was a skill I had been hesitant to try, but under Ruby’s watchful eye, it became second nature. Beyond sailing mechanics, Ruby is a masterful teacher of the crucial ‘cruiser’s mindset’.

She involved me in all aspects of passage planning and decision-making. I learned to critically analyze wind and weather using modern apps, and then-most importantly-to apply that data to make smart, safe decisions about routing and anchorage selection, and how to keep my thoughts looking forward to safe exit strategies as well, in the event of equipment failure or changes in weather. Her lessons on navigating complex reef systems were invaluable; she taught me to trust traditional methods and visual piloting while effectively using satellite imagery as a vital backup tool, ensuring we always had multiple layers of safety.

The lovely islands of the South Pacific provided a breathtaking and ideal classroom. The protected anchorages offered secure and stunningly beautiful places to practice new skills and reflect on the day’s lessons. The humpback whales, especially the mama whales and their playful calves, were a constant, magical presence that underscored the privilege of exploring this part of the world. Snorkeling was great exercise and Ruby has a SUP I could use as well.”   -Deb

Dorothee joined me in French Polynesia !

FAQ

Rita joined me in French Polynesia

Alison hoisting the main sail!

Even when weather kept us in port those first few days, Ruby used the time to teach me hands-on skills: changing the engine oil (a first for me and a huge confidence boost!), tackling small boat projects like sail repair, and walking me through the apps she uses to monitor weather, swells, anchorages, and neighboring boats. She even shared her meticulous maintenance schedule for Makani — something that will stay with me as I care for my own boat in the future.

Once we set sail, every day was a mix of nerves, excitement, and accomplishment (big and small). Ruby gradually expanded my comfort zone, including taking me out into the open ocean — an exhilarating day and night that I’ll never forget. She was always thoughtful about gauging my comfort and safety, which allowed me to really enjoy the challenge.

And then there were the evenings: after dropping anchor, when the work was done, the magic began. Ruby would retreat to the galley, put on beautiful music, and somehow turn cooking into an art form. Her meals were incredible — nourishing, creative, and such a treat at the end of each full day. It’s one of the many ways she made life aboard Makani feel special.

Beyond the sailing and learning, there was time for play and reflection. I loved snorkeling the reefs, paddleboarding to quiet beaches, reading, or simply sitting with the sea. What stood out most, though, was how safe and welcomed I felt with Ruby. This journey has touched every part of my life. Ruby is doing vital work in this world — building women’s skills, confidence, and courage on the water — and she does it with strength, warmth, and grace. Makani, too, has her own way of holding you, teaching you, and reminding you of what’s possible.” -Alison

Deb joined me for ten days! 

“Women need these opportunities that allow them to find space to heal, to finish a chapter and to begin a new one in their lives. Stepping outside of who I perceived myself to be was important for my journey and was life changing. I can now say I am more risk tolerant and unphased by what others may think of me. My time with Ruby was amazing and brought me forward in my own life! “

-Rita