In 1998, San Diego boat builder, Lew Maurer, got a very special commission. A wealthy Belgian businessman retained Maurer to build a unique luxury catamaran. The 80-foot vessel was designed to carry the Belgian father and his young family on trips around the world to some of the remotest places on earth.
The boat, called Moana, launched in 2000. Maurer has just written a book about the Moana and the adventures of the family and crew who sailed on her.
Maurer joined Midday Edition on Monday to talk about some of the highlights and some frightening moments from the journeys. He related how rewarding it was to watch the children grow up over the years. Maurer shared the story of why the boat didn't sell after the family adventures were over and the new life Moana has now as she sets sail on new adventures.
Maurer will also be speaking about his adventures on Wednesday at a meeting of the La Jolla Photo Travelers Club being held at 7:30 p.m. at the Wesley Palms San Diego Retirement Community.
