Breaking Waves · video

What this video covers

Ben and Alie prepare their 40-ft sailboat, Kiana, in La Cruz, Mexico, for a trans-Pacific passage to French Polynesia.0:07 The couple upgrades their electrical system by installing 750 watts of fixed solar panels, including 150 watts of flexible panels mounted on the dodger with starboard spacers to improve airflow and efficiency.6:16 Ben fabricates custom aluminum backing plates to mount additional panels to the pushpit using Mantis rail clamps.6:45 To reach a total of 950 watts, they add a portable 200-watt Bluetti solar panel and battery bank, which they plan to strap to the underside of their dinghy while at sea.14:00 Alie manages the installation of wiring from the batteries to the controller and repairs a malfunctioning marine head by replacing a broken O-ring and clearing a macerator clog.10:24 While in port, the crew attends seminars on heavy-weather sailing and rig inspections.8:50 The passage preparation also includes reorganizing deep storage areas to accommodate increased self-sufficiency for the upcoming crossing.4:23

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