Sailing Into a Black Hole! Matt Woodside Battles No Wind & Flying Squid | GGR 2026
1 October 2026 · 13 min · 3K views · West African Coast
What this video covers
Matt Woodside, an entrant in the Golden Globe Race, reports light-wind conditions and slow progress in the Atlantic Ocean while sailing toward the equator. Currently averaging 1.5 knots, Woodside describes the doldrums as a "black hole" and notes that he is cleaning squid ink and scales off his deck daily.6:57 During a recent storm, he experienced winds under 30 knots and successfully hove to, reporting no leaks or structural issues following a major cabin-top refit.3:43 He maintains his position by reading and following a daily routine, noting that he avoids relying on weather reports because he cannot outrun the prevailing conditions.4:01 Woodside confirms that other fleet members, including Ertan, Mara, Gunnar, and Louie, are experiencing varied weather impacts, with some participants forced to deviate from their planned routes.2:01 He remains focused on day-to-day progress while awaiting the reestablishment of northeasterly trade winds.4:38
More from Golden Globe Race Official
From Golden Globe Race Official — 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.