Sailing Big Lostvideo
We Swam With Humpback Whales… Then Left Our Boat Behind
6 October 2026 · 30 min · 4K views · Moorea
What this video covers
The crew of Big Lost arranged for long-term boat storage in Phaeton Bay, Tahiti, while returning to Idaho for 30 days.23:30 To prepare for the departure, they motored 46 nautical miles from Moorea to Phaeton Bay in calm conditions.17:33 They contracted a local caretaker, Muriel, for $400 per month to monitor the vessel, run the engines weekly, clean the interior, and provide airport transportation.23:44 Before leaving, the crew pickled the watermaker, emptied refrigerators and freezers, secured the dinghy on the davits, and performed a deep cleaning of all interior spaces to prevent moisture buildup.25:00 They anchored in 150 meters of chain to ensure security during their absence.24:17 Prior to the transit, the family participated in a regulated whale-watching tour off Moorea, where they encountered humpback whales and pilot whales.3:05 The trip included three separate in-water sessions with a licensed guide, allowing them to observe humpback behavior and hear whale songs.16:47
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