Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a newcomer eager to chart your course across the Pacific, you need to introduce yourself to Viki Moore. From New Zealand, she’s a qualified RYA Offshore Yachtmaster, former Director of Yachting New Zealand, founder of Women Who Sail New Zealand, Regional Rear Commodore (South Pacific) for the Ocean Cruising Club, former On Water Operations Manager for SailGP and the list goes on. And on top of all that, she’s an all-round great person.
A LIFELONG PASSION FOR SAILING
Viki’s sailing journey started as an eight-year-old, learning to sail in Governors Bay, South Island, New Zealand.
“I learnt to sail in an Optimist, then over the years I crewed, then raced,” says Viki. “But it’s been the cruising that really draws me. I love the travel and exploring new places.”
Starting out in her career, she worked in the travel industry. She then moved into politics, advocating for people and the kind of world she wanted to create. “I guess my passion for travel, logistics and sorting out complicated problems collided when the opportunity to purchase Island Cruising came along.”
In 2021, as the world grappled with the impact of Covid-19, Viki seized the opportunity to take over Island Cruising, a company with a rich history spanning nearly four decades. The company specializes in providing ocean cruisers with support, education and connection across the South Pacific Ocean. Under her leadership, membership numbers have skyrocketed, growing from 27 in 2022 to an impressive 160 yachts this year.
One of Viki’s key contributions has been reimagining the rally format, making it more flexible and independent. Unlike traditional rallies that required boats to sail in a tight formation, Viki’s approach allows participants the flexibility to explore at their own pace while still benefiting from the camaraderie and shared resources of the group. This hybrid model caters to the adventurous spirit of yachties who cherish their independence while also fostering a sense of community.
“We aim to create an environment where people can pick their own dates and destinations, but still have the option to socialize and share experiences,” Viki explains. This unique balance has attracted both seasoned sailors and newcomers eager to learn from each other.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR OCEAN CRUISERS
As a seasoned sailor, Viki understands the complexities of preparing for ocean passages. She emphasizes the importance of comprehensive training that covers everything from safety regulations to crew wellbeing.
#1 Prepare the vessel
“There is just so much to learn when you carry out an ocean passage. From safety equipment to navigational charts and power generation, there is much to get your head around,” says Viki. “We provide input on everything from anchors and anchoring to steering, electronics and water treatment. My advice is to start early and get to know your boat as intricately as possible. Having the right spares and the knowledge and confidence on how to fix the systems on board is essential in remote places.”
#2 Prepare the people
Just as crucial is preparing yourself and the crew for any crossing. And not just practically with safety gear and medical kids. “It’s also about how you keep yourself sane!” smiles Viki. “How will you share small spaces, potentially with crew aboard who you might not have known for a long time? We recognize this can be the ‘make or break’ of any passage and so we help to get it right wherever we can. And it all starts with having clear conversations and expectations.”
“We recommend that each vessel introduces a daily ‘check-in’ under the ‘good, tricky, do differently’ model. What’s going well? What’s challenging? And what could we be doing differently around our care for ourselves and our crew?” says Viki.
#3 Provisioning
“Provisioning for long voyages can be daunting,” Viki notes. “Getting this part right can make a huge difference. We provide our members with lengthy tips on nutrition and how to cook and store food at sea. It’s not just about the mechanics of sailing; it’s about ensuring everyone on board is safe, well fed, rested and comfortable.” Viki recommends making as many pre-prepared meals as possible, so you can just heat and eat. And if you like to buy plenty of tins, make sure you taste one of everything before you stock up on them.
“While you’ll find food wherever you find people, stocking up on your favourite dry stores while you are at home is well worth it. Then learn how to cook and eat seasonal produce like the locals. A water maker is also an essential item – in many places the local water isn’t potable, or available on a hose at the end of a wharf. Being able to make water will extend your cruising options,” says Viki.
#4 Communications
Viki is a firm believer in open dialogue. Not only for accessing weather forecasting and information but also for speaking up when things are tricky. Viki often facilitates connections between participants, especially during challenging moments. “Sometimes, it’s just about providing a listening ear or encouraging someone to take a break,” she explains. “A simple cup of tea and a chat can make a world of difference.”
First and foremost, get clear about how you will communicate – both onshore and offshore. Viki says, “Satellite communications technology is advancing in leaps and bounds, but I highly recommend having backups and redundancy in your systems should your primary means of communications fail.”
#5 Learn, learn, learn
It’s never too late or too early to start preparing and learning. Viki’s advice is simple: start learning as soon as you can. “You can take courses and get involved even before you own a boat.” Regulations in each country are constantly changing, so Viki encourages cruisers to do their homework and identify what you don’t know. She says, “Our members get access to our Rally Guidebook and online resources, but there’s always more to learn. We provide our rally participants with all the information they need to make this adventure a success.”
#6 Safety is paramount
“Maritime law dictates that the safety of the vessel and crew is the sole responsibility of the skipper,” Viki explains. Viki and her team provide vital information and updates, but ultimately, each skipper makes their own decisions about setting sail. “We never pressure people to depart; they need to feel confident in their choices.”
Decision-making on routes and stopovers heavily relies on weather conditions. “Discuss options, ensuring everyone has a say in the best path forward,” she says. “Get the appropriate trackers, use the Passage Guardian service and share your emergency contacts with your friends and family. A thorough briefing with your crew about the location of all the safety equipment and how to use it, along with drills and scenario planning, can help to reassure everyone that they are ready for any eventuality.”
BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Pacific rally community is its strong sense of camaraderie. Viki recounts numerous stories of participants rallying together to support one another in times of need. For instance, recently a boat encountered engine trouble 200 miles off the coast of New Zealand. Rally participants coordinated a delivery of critical spare parts mid-ocean, highlighting the resourcefulness and commitment of the community to help one another. “This collaborative spirit fosters a supportive environment where knowledge flows freely, helping newcomers feel empowered and experienced sailors validate their approaches,” says Viki. “We’ve even had a wedding on the rally! The guests didn’t know each other three months before, but were able to share in this magical moment due to the wonderful community that had formed.”
LOOKING AHEAD
With 72 boats already registered for the next round, Viki is now focused on ensuring every participant feels prepared and supported for the 2025 Pacific Rally. The combination of organized events, local cultural experiences, and shared resources continues to draw sailors from all walks of life.
In the words of Viki, “This isn’t just about sailing; it’s about living your dreams and connecting with incredible people along the way.”
Viki has also recently expanded her influence by taking over the Down Under Rally to Australia. But her mission is still the same: she emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the sailing community. “We connect with all cruisers and create a supportive circle of sailors across the Pacific,” she says.
Membership to Island Cruising is NZ$129.00 ($76 USD). To take part in the 2025 Pacific Rally costs NZ$1795 ($1,054 USD) and gives access to a wealth of resources, support and discounts.
