The Skipper
Martin Kraus
Since the age of 14, Martin is a glider pilot. From 1986 to 2023, he worked in the high-tech industry, mostly in aeronautics. Thus, he is familiar with aerodynamics and how to best use of the forces of wind and thermal lift to move without engine.
Also, Martin has been travelling to and hiking in many places on the planet.
In 2005, he had his first experience with sailing in the Baltic Sea. Meanwhile, he has been sailing in the Mediterranean Sea, in Brittany, in the Atlantic, and the North Sea.
Martin holds the Swiss Certificate of Competence for Ocean Yachting, the International Certificate for Operators of Pleasure Craft of Germany, the Swiss Inland Water Certificate, and radio communication certificates (LRC, SRC, UBI). Also, he was granted the World Sailing Certificate for Personal Offshore Survival Training.
He is member of the Crusing Club of Switzerland (CCS) and the German Trans-Ocean e.V.
The Yacht
In October 2020, after two years of searching and intensive discussions with shipyards, dealers, other owners, and skippers, after visiting boat shows and travelling to see second-hand boats, we decided to order an OVNI 400 from Alubat Chantier Naval in Les Sables d’Olonne, the home of the famous Vendée Globe around-the-world race and many other regattas.
For us, the OVNI 400 is the perfect solution for our bluewater cruising plans. She can be sailed safely with a small crew or even single-handed. With her lifting keel, she allows sailing in shallow waters and to beach her in tidal areas. Equipped with a genua, a heavy-duty jib and a gennaker (Code D), she is prepared for almost all wind conditions. She offers space for up to six crew members, technical equipment, and all necessary supplies for long-distance cruises. Fresh water will be provided by a water-maker.
ONWO ONOC is autonomous in regards to power generation using the forces of nature: solar panels, a wind generator, and a hydro-generator. There is no diesel generator and the alternator of the engine is only an electricity backup for safety considerations. Our semi-inflatable dinghy is powered by an electric engine.
Also in line with the objective to avoid plastics in our oceans and having sustainabilty in mind, ONWO ONOC’s aluminum construction of hull, deck, mast, and boom means a perfect solution.
ONWO ONOC e.V.
The ONWO ONOC Club (e.V.) as a non-profit organization will be the platform for any kind of agreements with other organizations in the areas of environmental protection and science.
Sailors who are interested in joining us in one of our trips will become one-year members of the organization.
