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Solo Sail to Avalon, Catalina Island (April 2026)
29 April 2026 · 23 min · 1K views · San Pedro, Los Angeles Harbor
Sailboat slicing blue water under bright sun, Catalina ahead
What this video covers
A solo sailor aboard a Valiant Yachts 40-2 transits from San Pedro to Avalon, Catalina Island, using the Orca navigation app for sail routing.▶ 0:36 During the 22.6-nautical-mile crossing, the vessel encounters 7 to 20 knots of wind, requiring adjustments between a full genoa, staysail, and main.▶ 1:33 The sailor notes that the wind typically shifts to provide a lift when approaching the island from the north.▶ 2:50 Upon arrival at Avalon, the vessel secures to mooring 99.▶ 10:54 Departing two days later, the sailor motors to White Cove before sailing back toward Angel’s Gate.▶ 12:10 During the return, the vessel encounters the research vessel Bold Explorer; the sailor uses VHF channel 16 to hail the ship and confirms a safe passing distance after moving the conversation to channel 14.▶ 17:58 The trip demonstrates the utility of the Orca app for sail routing and the importance of proactive VHF communication when navigating near vessels conducting underwater operations.
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