Sailing With Vampires · video

What this video covers

With Vampires prepares for a departure from Puerto Vallarta, where 12-foot swells in the anchorage have complicated chain management.2:06 The solo sailor upgrades the autopilot system by installing a Raymarine linear drive connected to an Edson tiller arm, reinforced with a three-layer plywood mount secured by eight bolts.7:58 To prepare for the downwind passage, the crew installs Dyneema running backstays to prevent mast failure and stocks four water jugs.2:38 The vessel departs Puerto Vallarta, maintaining speeds of 7 to 7.5 knots while sailing in company with another boat, Key Lime Pie.10:29 The transit involves a 100-nautical-mile solo leg through shifting wind conditions.13:30 The crew manages the boat's systems and navigation independently, relying on previous experience to handle the overnight passage. The preparation phase highlights the necessity of maintaining gear like water carts and propane storage, while the passage underscores the reality of managing sail trim and autopilot hardware during solo coastal cruising.

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