Sailing Zephyr IV · video

What this video covers

Solo sailor Dave navigates the 30-foot Zephyr IV from Cowes to Poole and back to Gosport, UK, over three days. The outbound passage involves light, variable winds and a lumpy sea state, requiring engine assistance to maintain progress.0:44 Upon reaching Poole Harbour, the vessel anchors behind Brownsea Island to escape a heavy swell before docking at Town Quay Boat Haven.6:17 The return trip involves navigating the East Looe Channel to avoid the rougher, deeper water south of the Needles, keeping close inshore near Hurst Castle to utilise favourable tidal currents.8:19 Despite encountering shallow depths of one foot under the keel in the inside passage, this route provides a smoother transit.8:47 The return leg features wind speeds ranging from 10 to 20 knots, requiring frequent sail adjustments and eventual engine use when the wind dies near the entrance to Cowes.16:13 The trip demonstrates the utility of hugging the coastline to minimise sea state and maximise tidal assistance in the Solent.

More from Sailing Zephyr IV

Why Cowes Can Be A Sailor’s Nightmare (And How To Fix It)Sept 2026I Took the BLUETTI Elite 100 V2 on a boat – Here's What HappenedAug 2026Boat Toilet Not Working? I Replaced the Jabsco Pump at 82!Jul 2026Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling Test: Will the Seaflo System Deliver?Jun 2026

From Sailing Zephyr IV — 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.