James Brett Clibbery and his wife, Sarah Justine Packwood, set out on an environmentally friendly sailing journey from Nova Scotia to the Azores on June 11. Unfortunately, their voyage ended tragically when their bodies were discovered in a lifeboat washed ashore at a Canadian national park earlier this month.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police responded to reports of the 10-foot inflatable lifeboat containing human remains on July 10 at Sable Island National Park Reserve. While the authorities did not officially identify the bodies, they were believed to be those of a 70-year-old man and a 60-year-old woman from British Columbia. James Clibbery, the son of the man found, later confirmed on Facebook that the deceased were his father, James Brett Clibbery, and his mother, Sarah Justine Packwood, who had embarked on their journey to the Azores in June. The couple had been reported missing on June 18.
The tragic news was shared by Mr. Clibbery’s son, who expressed the difficulty of coming to terms with their sudden passing. He mentioned that DNA tests would be conducted to confirm their identities and that it was challenging to remain hopeful in the face of such devastating news. The authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Sable Island, located about 180 miles southeast of Halifax, Nova Scotia, is known for its wildlife and history of shipwrecks. The couple’s sailing journey, documented on social media, aimed to showcase the possibility of long-distance travel without relying on fossil fuels. Their 42-foot GibSea sailboat was powered by electricity and solar energy, demonstrating a commitment to eco-friendly travel.
In their final social media post on June 11, Mr. Clibbery shared their excitement for the journey ahead, highlighting their efforts to sail sustainably. The couple’s dedication to promoting green energy alternatives through their sailing adventures resonated with many followers.
The loss of James Brett Clibbery and Sarah Justine Packwood serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sea and the importance of safety measures in maritime travel. As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of their deaths, their story stands as a testament to their passion for sailing and environmental conservation.