WEsail · video

What this video covers

A 38-ft catamaran sailing from Virgin Gorda to Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands experiences a fouled prop when a fishing line wraps around the shaft during a downwind sail.1:18 The crew clears the line while the boat remains in motion.2:21 Later, the vessel suffers a mechanical failure when the rudder control arm slips on the shaft.8:20 Investigation reveals the original installation lacked proper alignment pins, causing the arm to rely solely on a crimp fitting that failed under the force of shifting into reverse without centering the helm.8:58 The crew repairs the steering linkage before crossing the border to the U.S. Virgin Islands.11:31 They anchor in Christmas Cove, St. Thomas, to access local amenities, including a floating pizza boat.19:26 The crew also explores St. John, snorkeling for lionfish and visiting White Bay on Jost Van Dyke.12:26 Proper helm management when shifting into reverse prevents excessive force on rudder assemblies.

More from WEsail

13 Knots, Big Seas & Dolphins at Sunset | Sailing Back to Fiji's MainlandAug 2026We Don't Know Where We're Going Next | Leaving Fulaga, Fiji & Sailing SomewhereAug 2026We Ran Out of Gas Saying Goodbye | Our Last Days in Fulaga, FijiJul 2026Nobody Mentioned the Cave of Bones | Three Weeks in Fulaga, FijiJul 2026

From WEsail — 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.