Vie d'écumevideo

The whims of the wind, I want to sleep. Transatlantic return ep.2

18 June 2026 · 39 min · 989 views · North Atlantic Ocean

What this video covers

Solo sailing the Bénéteau Océanis 440 *corail* across the North Atlantic, the captain manages light-wind conditions and heavy rolling seas during a return passage. To maintain speed and stability in 8 to 13 knots of wind, he experiments with sail trim, including wing-on-wing configurations and using a whisker pole to stabilize the genoa.21:43 Adjusting the heading by 10 degrees—shifting from a deep downwind angle to a reach—increases boat speed from 5 knots to 7 knots by preventing the sails from lurching and collapsing in the swell.24:09 He coordinates with a professional weather router, sending position, speed, and heading updates every six hours to navigate around light-wind bubbles and potential storms.34:00 Despite these efforts, the boat frequently rolls in the Atlantic swell, complicating sleep and forcing the use of three reefs in the mainsail to reduce motion.31:09 The captain also cleans the cockpit and monitors the autopilot’s performance to ensure it can maintain course during rest periods.3:29 Small adjustments to sail angle and rig tension significantly improve performance in light, inconsistent winds.

Watch on YouTube

Boats in this video

Beneteau Oceanis 440Their boat

More from Vie d'écume

Goodbye CORAIL !!!Sept 2026The FUTURE of Vie d'écume and mineAug 2026Plans have changed, we're doing the Spanish coast, Toulon will have to waitAug 2026Watch out for the orcas of Gibraltar, I'm staying on guardAug 2026

From Vie d'écume — 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.

Report an issue