Sam Holmes Sailingvideo

Martha’s Vineyard, Engine trouble, Cape Cod Canal and Maine

15 October 2020 · 13 min · 52K views · Cape Cod Canal

What this video covers

A sailor transits from Martha’s Vineyard to Maine, managing a leaking saltwater pump and navigating the Cape Cod Canal. While motor-sailing toward the canal, the engine’s water pump leaks, requiring an impeller replacement and seal maintenance.1:09 The vessel enters the Cape Cod Canal with a 3.5-knot following current, reaching speeds of 9 knots.4:08 To resolve a recurring anchor-rode jam at the chain-to-rope splice, the splice is cut and replaced with a direct braid-to-chain connection to ensure a smooth transition through the windlass.4:51 After bypassing Boston due to heavy lobster pot density and unfavorable wind, the boat anchors off York Beach, Maine.9:25 The crew encounters restricted dinghy access at the beach and experiences significant tidal range, leaving the boat near the shore at low tide.11:16 Future plans include hauling the boat for winter storage, performing structural upgrades like a hard dodger and solar arch, and undergoing surgery to remove an ostomy bag.12:13 Replacing a worn impeller and re-splicing the anchor rode directly to the chain prevents mechanical and ground tackle failures during coastal passages.

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