keeldragger · video

What this video covers

A 32.2-nautical-mile passage from White Cove, Catalina Island, to Pyramid Cove, San Clemente Island, involves three vessels—the narrator’s boat, *Blu-Away*, and *Aeronautical*—motor-sailing in light winds before transitioning to full sail.2:13 The narrator utilizes a Hydrovane self-steering system to maintain course in light air, achieving speeds of approximately six knots.7:47 Upon arrival at Pyramid Cove, the crew anchors in 45 feet of depth with 300 feet of chain deployed.17:43 During the return trip to Los Angeles Harbor, the crew monitors a distress call from a 26-foot Striper experiencing engine failure between San Clemente and Catalina.23:34 The narrator demonstrates heaving-to by back-winding the headsail and locking the helm to allow a commercial vessel to pass through the shipping lanes.31:38 Starlink provides reliable connectivity for weather updates and communication throughout the trip, including at the remote San Clemente anchorage.19:20 The Hydrovane effectively manages steering in light wind conditions, provided the traveler is adjusted to balance weather helm.30:10

Boats in this video

More from keeldragger

Sailing to Keeldraggerpalooza (July 2026)Aug 2026Single-handed sail to Two Harbors, Catalina Island (June 2026)Jun 2026Sweet Home Catalina... and Island White (May 2026)Jun 2026OPB: Crewing aboard Beneteau 57, "Vanishing Point", from LA Harbor to San Diego (May 2026)May 2026

From keeldragger — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.