PAT | FRANKIE · video

What this video covers

A crew of four delivering a sailboat from the Canary Islands to mainland Spain experiences two separate orca attacks while transiting the approach to the Strait of Gibraltar.26:27 During the night, orcas strike the rudder twice, rendering the steering system inoperable and forcing the crew to maneuver using the engine and bow thruster.26:58 The vessel maintains structural integrity with no water ingress, allowing the crew to motor 13 miles to a marina near Cadiz.27:31 Throughout the passage, the crew monitors orca interaction reports via mobile apps, noting a high density of incidents near the Strait.2:28 They attempt to mitigate risk by staying within the 20-meter depth contour, a strategy commonly cited by sailors to avoid orca encounters.23:47 Upon arrival, the crew confirms the rudder sustained significant damage, requiring professional assessment at the marina.28:49 Maintaining a 20-meter depth and keeping the engine ready for immediate maneuvering are critical when transiting known orca interaction zones.

More from PAT | FRANKIE

12.5 days of REALITY crossing the Atlantic Ocean | Part 3 #sailingJun 2025Atlantic Crossing Part 2 | The Night from Hell + Discovering Cape VerdeMay 2025Leaving Everything Behind - The First 900 NM | Atlantic Crossing Part 1Apr 2025The ULTIMATE Shakedown SailFeb 2025

From PAT | FRANKIE — 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.