SailingAlonevideo
Sailing around reefs. Sailing solo across the Pacific Ocean. In Tonga.
10 November 2023 · 4 min · 13K views · Pazifischer Ozean
What this video covers
Dunkeln sails upwind through the Wawao Archipelago in Tonga, navigating a vessel through waters characterized by deep oceanic trenches and volcanic peaks rising to within 30 meters of the surface.1:56 The primary challenge involves identifying uncharted reefs, which remain invisible when sunlight reflects off the water from the front.2:15 Maneuvering in these conditions requires committing to a course, as the boat cannot easily stop or reverse when an obstacle appears.2:23 Beyond the navigational hazards, the loss of all primary and reserve diving gear—including masks and fins—prevents further underwater exploration.4:06 Facing these equipment failures and a waning sense of enjoyment, the decision is made to depart the South Pacific.3:54 The planned route shifts toward Australia, with a final destination of Tasmania.4:29 Navigating coral-rich archipelagos requires favorable lighting conditions to spot reefs, as reliance on electronic charts alone proves insufficient for safe passage.2:15
More from SailingAlone
From SailingAlone — 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.