Historic Vessel Vega was in a prime position during the show and according to the organizers we attracted more visitors than any other display.
This is Vega on the first day of the show just before the doors opened.
We had spent 6 weeks both in the boat yard and in the water getting Vega ready for the show. She gleamed and we were proud of the old girl.
One of my favorite signs. Made from a old plank from Vega. Everyone was welcome and hundreds of people came to see a real traditional boat that is still working for her living.
Children love Vega. More than one was heard to exclaim, "look it's pirates of the Caribbean"amazing how fast children figure us out. &:o})
A constant stream of visitors came every day.
Vega was a main attraction.
The best part was seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Here you have a collection of salty old Vegabonds.
At the end of the first full day we were barely able to talk, too tired to walk, and unable to afford Singapore restaurant prices the thought of cooking brought on nothing more energetic than sheepish grins. Then out of the blue came an angel loaded with pizza, fried chicken, and a host of other goodies. It was foredeck picnic time. We wont talk about the one who fell asleep with a half eaten chicken leg in hand.
Fundraiser FAQ – Vega1892
1. Why are you fundraising now?
After major repairs to Vega and a series of surgeries, Shane must undergo one more essential medical procedure in order to safely return to his duties as captain. Without this surgery, Vega cannot resume her humanitarian voyages. The fundraiser covers both Shane’s medical needs and the essential operating costs required for Vega to continue her mission.
2. What exactly will the funds be used for?
The estimated USD 24,800 will go toward:
Shane’s upcoming surgery, hospitalization, and recovery
Remaining maintenance needed for Vega’s sails, rigging, fuel, and basic yearly operating costs
Preparing Vega to return to service for the 2026 delivery missions
All funds go directly to these purposes.
3. Why are medical costs included—shouldn’t insurance cover this?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of Shane’s condition and our location of work, insurance does not cover the required treatment. We have personally funded all previous surgeries, aftercare, and Vega’s refit costs. At this point, our resources are fully depleted, and community support is the only way we can continue the mission.
4. Why is Shane’s surgery necessary for Vega to operate?
Shane is the only licensed captain and technical operator capable of safely navigating Vega through remote waters and handling the traditional rig, without asking to be paid. Until he completes this surgery and recovers, we cannot legally or safely sail, nor continue our deliveries to remote island communities.
5. Is Vega still being used for humanitarian missions?
Yes. For more than 20 years, Vega has delivered nearly 300 tons of medical and educational supplies to remote island communities that rarely receive outside assistance. Our mission continues—this fundraiser helps us resume it as soon as possible.
6. When will Vega return to service?
If Shane’s surgery goes ahead as scheduled and his recovery is smooth, we expect Vega to be back in operation within the 2026 mission timeline. We will post regular updates on progress and readiness.
7. How can we be sure the funds are used responsibly?
We are committed to full transparency. Donors will receive:
Updates on Shane’s medical progress
Updates on Vega’s repair and readiness
A summary after funds are used
Our 20-year track record speaks for itself: every dollar goes toward our mission, not salaries or personal profit.
8. Can I donate equipment or supplies instead of money?
Yes—donated medical supplies, educational materials, or boat maintenance items are always appreciated. Please contact us at: vega@sailvega.comto coordinate.
9. What happens if the fundraising goal is exceeded?
Any additional funds will be used exclusively for Vega’s humanitarian missions: fuel, supplies, medical deliveries, and maintenance to keep her sailing to remote communities.
10. What if the surgery is delayed?
All funds allocated for the surgery will remain reserved until the procedure occurs. We will provide updates if there are scheduling changes.
11. How else can I help?
Share the fundraiser on social media
Follow Vega on Facebook and Instagram
Spread the word among maritime, sailing, and humanitarian communities
Support with donated supplies or volunteer help
Everything helps us get back to sea.
Fundraiser FAQ – Vega1892
1. Why are you fundraising now?
After major repairs to Vega and a series of surgeries, Shane must undergo one more essential medical procedure in order to safely return to his duties as captain. Without this surgery, Vega cannot resume her humanitarian voyages. The fundraiser covers both Shane’s medical needs and the essential operating costs required for Vega to continue her mission.
2. What exactly will the funds be used for?
The estimated USD 24,800 will go toward:
Shane’s upcoming surgery, hospitalization, and recovery
Remaining maintenance needed for Vega’s sails, rigging, fuel, and basic yearly operating costs
Preparing Vega to return to service for the 2026 delivery missions
All funds go directly to these purposes.
3. Why are medical costs included—shouldn’t insurance cover this?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of Shane’s condition and our location of work, insurance does not cover the required treatment. We have personally funded all previous surgeries, aftercare, and Vega’s refit costs. At this point, our resources are fully depleted, and community support is the only way we can continue the mission.
4. Why is Shane’s surgery necessary for Vega to operate?
Shane is the only licensed captain and technical operator capable of safely navigating Vega through remote waters and handling the traditional rig, without asking to be paid. Until he completes this surgery and recovers, we cannot legally or safely sail, nor continue our deliveries to remote island communities.
5. Is Vega still being used for humanitarian missions?
Yes. For more than 20 years, Vega has delivered nearly 300 tons of medical and educational supplies to remote island communities that rarely receive outside assistance. Our mission continues—this fundraiser helps us resume it as soon as possible.
6. When will Vega return to service?
If Shane’s surgery goes ahead as scheduled and his recovery is smooth, we expect Vega to be back in operation within the 2026 mission timeline. We will post regular updates on progress and readiness.
7. How can we be sure the funds are used responsibly?
We are committed to full transparency. Donors will receive:
Updates on Shane’s medical progress
Updates on Vega’s repair and readiness
A summary after funds are used
Our 20-year track record speaks for itself: every dollar goes toward our mission, not salaries or personal profit.
8. Can I donate equipment or supplies instead of money?
Yes—donated medical supplies, educational materials, or boat maintenance items are always appreciated. Please contact us at: vega@sailvega.comto coordinate.
9. What happens if the fundraising goal is exceeded?
Any additional funds will be used exclusively for Vega’s humanitarian missions: fuel, supplies, medical deliveries, and maintenance to keep her sailing to remote communities.
10. What if the surgery is delayed?
All funds allocated for the surgery will remain reserved until the procedure occurs. We will provide updates if there are scheduling changes.
11. How else can I help?
Share the fundraiser on social media
Follow Vega on Facebook and Instagram
Spread the word among maritime, sailing, and humanitarian communities
