As most of you already know, taking part in the Setka Atlantic Challenge is both a serious and a fun adventure. The rules are simple:
build your own Setka sailboat, share your progress on the race blog (so that Janusz Maderski, the race director, can track each competitor), and then sail solo across the ocean — completely without outside help.

Before facing the Atlantic, every skipper must first complete a 400 nm solo, nonstop qualification sail — a test of both the boat and the sailor.
So far, I’ve managed to cover 160 nm without stopping, but had to pause due to a few issues: a couple of mainsail sliders broke, my windvane needed fine adjustment, and I found two small leaks on deck caused by loose screws.
All fixed now ✅ — but sailing in the Adriatic offseason means the weather hasn’t been kind.

During one stretch, I faced Force 7–8 winds and 3-meter waves — my first time experiencing those conditions with Pixel. To my surprise, she handled it incredibly well. Even with 40 knots of wind, I never felt unsafe.
It was a tough test, but it showed me how seaworthy this tiny boat really is.

Every mile teaches me something new: how to fine-tune the rig, find the best sail combination for changing conditions, improve life below deck, perfect the windvane balance, and distribute weight for better stability. I’m still learning — and honestly, that’s what I love most about this journey.

Currently, Pixel is docked in Durrës Marina (Albania). After a rough, wavy night — not the most sheltered place — the concrete dock cut through my bow mooring line, spun the boat 180°, and ripped off my port stern cleat, damaging the windvane plate and slightly scraping the starboard stern corner. Luckily, no serious hull damage.

One of the reasons I chose this marina is its proximity to my hometown, Struga, and the fact that Albania is non-EU, which helps me manage my Schengen days for the upcoming race.

Meanwhile, all of us competitors stay connected through a WhatsApp group — constantly sharing updates, advice, and support. The sense of community is incredible.

If the forecast holds, I’ll set sail again on as soon as i fix my windvane to complete the 400 nm solo qualification.
Time is running fast — and slow — at the same time, but the goal is clear: earn my starting number for the Atlantic crossing.

Huge thanks to everyone for the ongoing support, messages, and encouragement — it truly keeps the spirit high. ⚓

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