In June 2023, I embarked on an incredible journey through French Polynesia after meeting Max on Instagram. He invited me to join him aboard his sailboat, "Elixir," and I flew into Nuka Hiva, where the island’s dramatic rise from the Pacific Ocean left me in awe. We spent a few days exploring the local villages, hiking the stunning landscape, and preparing Elixir for a 500NM passage to one of the most remote places on Earth—the Tuamotu Archipelago.

The sail started perfectly, with the trade winds at our back, and we even caught a 40pound skipjack tuna. However, as we progressed, squalls moved in, leaving us drenched for the remainder of the trip. Arriving in the Tuamotus was surreal—atolls just a few meters above the water seemingly appeared out of nowhere. I’ll never forget the earthy smell of land after days at sea. The area was teeming with wildlife, and we spent our time swimming with sharks and exploring vibrant reefs. It was an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most magical places.