Calico cat travels by sailboat from Oregon to Hawaii on daring nonstop journey, sailor documents their adorable moments together

Briana Viser • Writer and Editor

Nov 10, 2026 9:30 AM EST

The life of a sailor is a difficult but exciting one. With a cat beside you, there won't be much loneliness.

Sailing is one of the most dangerous ways to live a life. We hear about van life, or in an RV, but there's something about the alternative lifestyle of sailing that feels harder and otherworldly. It's not on land, it's literally not grounded. There's no starting and stopping, you're consumed and surrounded by the waves and the situation. There's no way of getting out of it, there's no backing out. If you start and you find yourself in the middle of nowhere surrounded by horizons of blue on all sides, then you're committed. There's a certain type of person who will commit to that, and it's someone who has a bit of daring nature within them.

This man left his 9-5, his life on land to taste the waves and saltwater of the sea. He didn't go alone though, he brought with him his beautiful and loving calico cat, Phoenix. She's at ease with him, and he documents their journey together from Oregon to Hawaii, a month long journey. It's absolutely adorable to see their relationship, and to learn all the ins and outs of working and managing a boat.

The cat must enjoy herself because she's always outside, she can watch birds all day long, and the rocking of the waves on the boat probably feels like a soft lullaby.

Give the gift of kindness this holiday season by donating to our Giving Tuesday fundraiser to help homeless pets and animals in need! It's time to pay your cat tax!

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This man and cat together are a brave duo. I would never sail, I like my life on land, thank you very much. The ocean is so mysterious and it's attractive to be surrounded by water, but eventually it would be too scary for me. But these kinds of people are truly inspiring. It especially inspires me because my favorite kid's novel was a book called The Wanderer, which had a 12 year old protagonist who agreed to travel by sailboat with her 2 cousins and 3 uncles. It's so in depth about what they all experience together, and how they manage with the boat. You have to understand what you're signing up for, and that dangerous situations will arise. There will be times of trouble, and times you're scared of being taken over by water. That kind of fear turns people into motivated and active participants in the situation, and sometimes it doesn't. Here's to cats, chaos, and sailing with your best nautical partner in furry crime.
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