Sailing Zephyr IVvideo

30 knot Westerly Winds Test Us on the First Day of Our Sailing Adventure

18 July 2025 · 15 min · 5K views · Newtown Creek, Isle of Wight

What this video covers

In early June 2025, the crew of Zephyr IV attempts a coastal passage from Cowes toward the West Country, contending with strong westerly winds.Watch During the initial leg, the crew encounters 30-knot winds, necessitating a deep reef in the genoa and a single reef in the main.1:19 After reaching Newtown Creek to seek shelter from uncomfortable conditions in the Solent, the crew waits for a favorable weather window using PredictWind forecasts.6:01 Once conditions moderate, they depart for Portland, navigating past Hurst Castle and St. Albans Head.9:02 To avoid the Lulworth Ranges and the race off St. Albans Head, the crew maintains a wide offshore track before jibing toward the Portland Harbour entrance.11:39 They secure a berth at Portland Marina on the visitors pontoon.14:25 The passage demonstrates the necessity of monitoring tidal flow against wind direction to manage sea state and the importance of timing departures around headlands like St. Albans Head to avoid rough water.

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Boats in this video

Westerly Yachts Ltd. Oceanquest 35Their boat

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