Documentary about Curiosity, Perseverance and Determination

The San Juan Islands are an archipelago in the northwest corner of the United States between the mainland and Canada’s Vancouver Island. The San Juan Islands are part of the U.S., with Orcas Island as the largest of the chain. And it’s on Orcas Island, if you know where to look, you will find a modern day Noah’s Ark.

App Applegate envisioned a boat he could sail from Orcas Island to Cuba. Working largely alone, App dedicated his time to building his 80-foot barkentine sailing vessel amongst the tall trees of the Pacific Northwest. Tucked in the forest on Mt. Picket, 400-feet above Obstruction Pass, is where the “Aproximada” can be found.

However, App didn’t think much about how to launch it. People wanted to help get this ship down the mountain and into the bay. As word spread, visitors began to flock toward his project. App loved the attention; he loved to talk about his ship and his thoughts on the human condition. He also needed a bit of help along the way. In a sense, App’s travels had already begun. The act of building his ship became a way to have the world arrive at his doorstep.

Through a collection of archive footage and present day interviews, video, and illustrations, a short film has unearthed the story of an amazing Orcas Island icon. Through stories from longtime friends, family and associates; the film follows the story of how App’s vision materialized. Though never touching the water, the “Aproximada” became the symbol of man’s curiosity, perseverance and determination.

NOTE: The film ‘Aproximada’ is in a competition with two other entries and the winning film gets played at the 2017 Seattle International Film Festival. If you like it, submit your vote here.