Vagabond Voyagesvideo

20 years later in Toau... The story was too good to be true Ep.52

October 18, 2024 · 30 min · 6K views · Toau Atoll

What this video covers

Cruising sailors at the Toau atoll in French Polynesia coordinate the rescue of a stray dog, Duchesse, found starving on a remote motu.15:34 After the crew of the sailboat *Vagabond* and other visiting cruisers spent a month feeding the dog, they faced the logistical challenge of relocating her from the uninhabited island.17:22 The crew eventually contacted a resident in Rangiroa, Lucie, who agreed to adopt the animal.24:43 The catamaran *Blown Away* assisted by transporting the dog to her new home.22:34 Navigating the Toau lagoon requires careful maneuvering through coral heads, locally known as "patates," often in 25-knot winds.10:06 The crew notes the difficulty of finding fresh provisions while cruising and the risks of ciguatera poisoning when fishing for local species like parrotfish.4:32 Despite the emotional difficulty of leaving the dog behind initially, the collaborative effort between multiple cruising vessels and a local resident ensured a successful adoption. Coordinating with local residents and other cruisers provides a viable solution for rescuing abandoned animals in remote island chains.

Watch on YouTube

More from Vagabond Voyages

We had to leave… we didn't know what to expect | Vanuatu Vlog #138Sep 2026We didn't expect this in Ambrym! | Sailing Vanuatu. Vlog 137Sep 2026Vanuatu: Teak bungs... then the worst seasickness of my life. Vlog 136Aug 2026Sailing Vanuatu: bad weather, life on board and bread recipe. Vlog 135Aug 2026

From Vagabond Voyages — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.

Report an issue