Wong Tet Choong, better known as ‘TC’, became one of Singapore’s most famous sailors last year. Having explored much of Southeast Asia in the past decade, he set off in early February 2020 for his biggest trip yet, sailing his Leopard 50 Ximula III through Indonesia on his way to the South Pacific.
However, as Covid rapidly spread around the world, borders quickly closed around him. His family back in Singapore were among those worried about him alone at sea, with nowhere to berth. Turned away in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Tuvalu – where he was able to buy and receive fuel and food from a distance – he was eventually allowed into Fiji in late April.
The episode generated news in Fiji, Singapore, Australia and elsewhere, even making international headlines through the likes of the BBC and The Guardian. However, if his situation seemed dramatic then, Wong couldn’t be more relaxed now. Living on his Leopard, often at Port Denarau Marina, he has been away from his family in Singapore for over 20 months and appears in no rush to return home. “I’ve been sailing around the islands in Fiji and I video call my family almost every day. There are so many beautiful islands to explore here,” says Wong, who had been in the country for just over a year when he turned 60 this May.
“Once the borders reopen, I’ll resume my journey towards Tahiti, visiting as many islands and atolls as I can. I believe this will take two to three more years. I’ve received many messages and well wishes from people telling me they’d love to embark on a similar lifestyle. Actually, there are many people already living the life I do.”
THE CALL OF THE SEA
This story is from the Issue 61 edition of Yacht Style.
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This story is from the Issue 61 edition of Yacht Style.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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Wong Tet Choong - Singapore's Most Famous Sailor
TC Wong made global headlines last year when the rapid spread of Covid left him stranded at sea in his Leopard 50 for months until he was eventually allowed into Fiji, where he has remained since. Now, the adventurous 60-year-old is waiting for borders to open so he can continue his journey around the South Pacific on his beloved Ximula III.
Burgess Marks New Milestone In Asia With 20th Superyacht Transaction
Confirming its position as the regional leader in selling large yachts, Burgess’ recent sale of the 52m Amels Lind marked the 20th transaction by the brokerage house’s Asia team since it was formed in 2015.
Premieres & Newcomers
Yacht Style provides an overview of this year’s exciting new models, with most on display at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival and/or Monaco Yacht Show, some having shown earlier in the year and a couple making their debuts in other autumn shows around Europe.
Déjà Vu In Denmark
Halfway into SailGP’s second season, a familiar pattern begins to emerge. Australia, runaway winners of the first series, again top the table, despite having to sit out one of the four events held so far with gear failure.
Galeon Spreads Its Wings
With Hong Kong welcoming its first Galeon 640 Fly and 325 GTO this year and Asia’s latest 500 Fly arriving in Singapore, Yacht Style looks at the builder’s 20-year relationship with Tony Castro that has resulted in some of the world’s most innovative production motor yachts.
How To Build A ‘Scent Wardrobe'!
Johanna Monange founded Maison 21G in Singapore to offer customised scents for all clients and all occasions. The personal approach is proving popular, with growing understanding of how to build a ‘scent wardrobe’ and more boutiques opening around the city.
Rolex Fastnet's “Coup De Cherbourg”
Fierce sou’west winds gusting 30 knots greeted 337 yachts starting the Rolex Fastnet Race, as the 49th edition of this famous offshore classic set off not for Plymouth as usual, but for Cherbourg in France, via Ireland’s Fastnet Rock.
Stepping Out Of The Shadows
As founder and Director of VP Yachts, Vivian Chan is quickly making a name for herself as the Hong Kong dealer for Italian builder Sessa, even if it appears a world away from her other role as General Manager of her family’s Sun Hing Shipyard.
From Pollution To Purpose
Former Singapore Idol finalist and TV producer Mathilda D’silva explains how the Ocean Purpose Project evolved from what she saw on and around her hometown beach in Pasir Ris.
TECH GIANT
Camper & Nicholsons’ recent achievements include selling the 105m Lady Moura and adding the 126m Octopus to its charter and management fleets, but CEO Paolo Casani is most excited about the company’s focus on proprietary technology to engage clients in the new era.
