Black Lion

Setting Off on a Third Circumnavigation!

After a nine-month break in New Caledonia, exploring the world’s largest lagoon and its breathtaking scenery, Magalie and Cyril are ready to head back to sea for a third circumnavigation aboard their faithful catamaran. New portlights, a new hydraulic system, an updated sail plan and interior improvements... Black Lion is ready for another major adventure, with one clear objective: to reunite with their son Jonathan in South Africa.

Black Lion

Published 31/07/2026

By Mary Nicholas

Issue: 209

Published: oct. / oct. 2026

Discover this issue

Who: Magalie and Cyril
Where: Nouméa, New Caledonia
Multihull: Catathai 40
YouTube: @catamaranblacklion

After weeks of preparation, selling their car and completing the final checks, Black Lion finally cast off for a third circumnavigation, setting course for Vanuatu. This South Pacific archipelago, made up of around 80 islands spread over nearly 800 nm (1,300 km), marks the true beginning of Season 3. Magalie and Cyril are delighted to experience the excitement of another great departure, although one concern remains: engine reliability. As far as the sails are concerned, however, they are feeling confident. The self-tacking jib has been replaced by a larger overlapping genoa. With a little more sail area, the aim is to improve lift and overall performance, particularly in light airs. There is a brief scare on departure day when a mechanical problem appears to prevent Black Lion from making proper headway. The engine seems to be slipping... Is their biggest fear about to come true? After tacking their way out, Magalie and Cyril make their first stop at Mato Islet in New Caledonia’s southern lagoon. Following a peaceful night at anchor, they head for Havannah Pass at the southeastern tip of Grande Terre. Exhausted by the preparations, Cyril begins to wonder whether they have made the right decision. But the excitement of returning to the open Pacific, which they have not sailed for almost a year, quickly takes over. “Our first two circumnavigations were all about carefree confidence and a touch of innocence,” he admits. “This time, there’s definitely a little more apprehension.”

They eventually arrive safely in Vanuatu after a 24-hour passage. Magalie hoists the yellow quarantine flag, signaling their request to enter the country’s waters and complete customs and immigration formalities.
Their first stop is Port Resolution on the island of Tanna. With only four yachts at anchor at this early stage of the cruising season, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a friendly evening with their neighbors. The following day is devoted to kayaking and snorkeling. Despite the dramatic volcanic surroundings, the underwater world reveals beautiful coral formations and abundant marine life. Steam vents rising from the rocks, the smell of sulfur, patches of warm water, deep volcanic rumblings and ash falling onto the deck create an atmosphere that is as unusual as it is fascinating. No visit would be complete without hiking to the summit of the volcano to admire its smoking crater. “It was absolutely unbelievable!” says Magalie. A few days later, Black Lion moves to a new anchorage to escape the volcanic fumes and breathe cleaner air... while also washing the ash off the catamaran. Cruising in this region requires constant vigilance, as some underwater volcanoes rise to within just 40 feet (12 m) of the surface. Further north, the island of Epi offers another opportunity to discover lush tropical vegetation and meet an exceptionally welcoming local community. Magalie and Cyril hike across the island to reach a beach that would have been impossible to access by sea aboard Black Lion. Back on board, another memorable encounter awaits them: a manatee, or “sea cow,” crosses their path, bringing back memories of a similar meeting sixteen years earlier. Beneath the surface, colorful tropical fish are everywhere. Finally, on Pentecost Island, they witness the spectacular Gol Jump, an ancestral tradition of the Sa people. Young men leap from the top of a tall wooden tower with nothing more than yam vines tied around their ankles. Far more than a test of courage, this ceremony, accompanied by songs and traditional dances, is intended to ensure a plentiful harvest. An unforgettable experience for the crew of Black Lion.

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