Sailing Zephyr IVvideo
Have we got enough time to make It Past Portland Bill?
15 September 2025 · 9 min · 2K views · Portland Bill
What this video covers
Dave and Bill navigate Zephyr IV from Salcombe across Lyme Bay, aiming to transit the inshore passage at Portland Bill.0:07 They plan to round the headland between 1600 and 1900 to utilize a favorable tide.0:10 While motor-sailing at 5.5 knots, the crew miscalculates their approach, positioning the boat too far offshore.4:38 This error places Zephyr IV in the strong tidal stream, which pushes the vessel sideways toward the Portland Race.5:54 To compensate, Dave steers directly toward the Bill, eventually clearing the race and entering the calmer waters on the eastern side of the headland.5:56 They proceed to Portland Harbour, escorted into the marina by a dolphin.8:06 The crew notes that while their transit remained manageable due to light winds and flat seas, a similar navigational error in heavy weather would create dangerous conditions.7:29 The correct approach requires staying within 100 yards of the shore to avoid the main tidal stream.6:53
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