Red and white sailboat sailing on Gulf waters near Panama City, Florida

Red and white sailboat chasing the Great Loop

Follow BladeRunner's restored vessel and eighteen-month restoration journey from Panama City, Florida across 1,523 nautical miles of open water.

Restoration journey

From stripped hull to seaworthy sailaboat

Eighteen months of hands-on work transformed this red and white sailboat into a reliable vessel for the Great Loop.

01

Hull assessment and repair

Inspected the entire hull for damage, replaced rotted sections, and sealed all compromised areas before painting.

Hull assessment and repair work in progress
02

Rigging and sail system

Replaced deteriorated lines, inspected the mast, and installed new sails to ensure safe and efficient sailing performance.

03

Engine overhaul

Rebuilt the diesel engine, replaced filters and belts, and tested all systems to confirm reliable power and water cooling.

Engine overhaul and mechanical work
04

Interior cabin refresh

Refinished galley, replaced cushions, updated wiring, and restored woodwork to create a safe and comfortable living space aboard.

05

Plumbing and water systems

Installed new through-hulls, replaced hoses, tested holding tanks, and ensured fresh water and waste systems function properly.

Interior cabin refresh and restoration
Current position

Track BladeRunner's journey across the Gulf

Follow 1,523 nautical miles completed and watch the voyage unfold. See where we've been and where we're headed next.

Crew voices

Life on the water through their eyes

Read firsthand accounts from the team sailing BladeRunner across the Gulf Coast, sharing the challenges, victories, and unforgettable moments that define this journey.

Eighteen months of restoration led to this moment. Every rigging check, every paint layer, every sleepless night fixing the engine made sense the day we left Fort Myers Beach.

Matt, captain of BladeRunner

Matt

Captain and project lead, BladeRunner

Watching the restoration unfold and then actually sailing through the Gulf waters felt surreal. Every nautical mile we've completed proves the work was worth every minute.

Sarah navigating BladeRunner

Sarah

Navigator and documentation crew member

The Gulf Coast reveals something new every day. We've covered 1,523 nautical miles and there's still so much water ahead. That's what keeps us moving.

James maintaining BladeRunner's rigging

James

First mate and maintenance specialist

Being part of this crew through the restoration and now the voyage has been transformative. Every person on BladeRunner brings something essential to this dream.

Elena documenting the BladeRunner journey

Elena

Social media and storytelling crew member

Follow the BladeRunner voyage and be part of the story

Stay connected with updates, photos, and stories from the Great Loop. Support the journey or share your own sailing adventures.