Schwörer Family: 25 Years Sailing with Seven Children Aboard Pachamama
Dario and Sabine Schwörer, alongside their seven children, have spent the past 25 years sailing on their aluminum monohull, Pachamama. Their journey has taken them across oceans and to polar regions, allowing them to observe firsthand the impacts of climate change.
Setting Sail for a Purpose
The Schwörer family’s adventure began in 1999 when they made a life-altering decision. Transitioning from their previous careers—Dario as a mountain guide and Sabine as a nurse—they chose to live aboard Pachamama. Their goal was not merely leisure sailing; they aimed to witness the environmental changes affecting the planet.
From Mountains to Oceans
Dario’s experiences in the mountains led him to understand that glaciers were shrinking and weather patterns were changing. Concern shared by Sabine spurred them to explore the world while advocating for environmental awareness.
Navigating Unfamiliar Waters
Initially, the Schwörer family lacked extensive sailing experience. Their first small boat, suitable for only two people, served as a learning platform for long ocean traverses. The challenges of the open sea shaped them as seafarers and strengthened their bond as a family.
Pachamama: A Home at Sea
As the family grew, they needed a vessel that could accommodate their increasing numbers. Pachamama, specifically designed for long-distance sailing, became their floating home. It provided the necessary amenities for sleeping, studying, and working.
- Pachamama’s design promotes self-sufficiency.
- Six of the seven children were born aboard.
- The boat facilitates a lifestyle that blends adventure with education.
Daily Life Onboard
Life on Pachamama requires constant adaptation. The limited space called for a balance that could only be achieved by addressing issues collectively. Daily routines involved watch shifts, makeshift schooling, and shared meals with the ocean as their backdrop.
Economic Challenges and Sustainability
The Schwörer family has never operated on a significant financial cushion. Their journey depended on multiple income sources, including school talks and public presentations. A book published early in their journey helped support their expedition, along with a recent documentary chronicling their story.
Dario highlighted the financial pressures faced during their travels. Each choice was made with careful budget consideration. Thus, Pachamama was designed for low maintenance and optimal resource management.
Health and Safety at Sea
With Sabine’s nursing background, she became the family’s medical caretaker, handling emergencies without immediate access to hospitals. Her approach to health emphasizes responsibility rather than heroism.
Continuing Their Journey
Pachamama has sailed through diverse climates, from tropical regions to polar zones. The family has encountered various challenges, including rough seas and moments of uncertainty, particularly during their children’s early years.
Current life for Dario and Sabine balances sailing with periods on land for sharing their experiences. Their journey remains grounded in the principles of adaptability and resilience. Pachamama is more than just their boat; it symbolizes their commitment to learning, growing, and exploring the world together.
