Sam Holmes Sailing · video

What this video covers

A 28-ft sailboat completes a 239-mile passage from Guadeloupe to St. Croix and eventually San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 44 hours.8:10 During the transit, the crew discovers a damaged three-strand nylon anchor rode with a broken strand, highlighting the need for more chain to protect the rope from coral and rock abrasion.0:20 Upon arrival in U.S. waters, the crew uses the CBP Roam app to clear customs, noting that approval remained pending for over 24 hours until the vessel reached the port.12:42 High transient and long-term marina fees in Puerto Rico—quoted at up to $2,500 per month—prompt the decision to anchor instead of docking.3:54 The trip includes a stop in St. Croix, where the crew encounters restrictive anchoring permits, and a visit to El Yunque National Forest.5:40 The passage concludes with the installation of a custom foam mattress extension to improve berth comfort.10:43

More from Sam Holmes Sailing

Sailing to Maratua, a rarely visited Indonesian island Sept 2026We hit a log sailing by strange Indonesian sea platformsAug 2026Replacing a window while sailing through pirate waters and wildlife of BorneoAug 2026Sandakan and Wildlife of BorneoAug 2026

From Sam Holmes Sailing — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.