keeldraggervideo
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.
Boats in this video
More from keeldragger
From keeldragger — 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.