Sailing Blue Pearlvideo

Ep 57 | Hurricane Hilary | "lines are breaking, we're doing the best we can"

3 September 2023 · 12 min · 3K views · San Felipe, Baja California

What this video covers

Chris and Jessica Hanna return to Blue Pearl at San Felipe Fonartua Marina following Hurricane Hilary to find the vessel covered in heavy sand deposits.10:21 The storm-driven winds, reaching 60 mph, funneled sand through a gap between fuel tanks and buildings, coating the deck, cockpit, and interior hatches.9:48 The crew spends four days performing a massive cleanup, using shovels and brooms to clear the accumulation.11:17 The sand caused significant cosmetic damage, including deep abrasion to the hull’s gelcoat on the starboard side where fenders rubbed against the grit.2:05 Additionally, the storm destroyed the boat's dock lines; 29 lines were used to secure the vessel, and many were either severed or severely chafed beyond repair.4:52 The marina’s shore power voltage remains too high for the boat's equipment, forcing the crew to rely on a temperamental generator for limited air conditioning in 94-degree heat.3:09 The crew notes that using canvas covers on cleats, similar to those seen on local Marine Rescue boats, may provide better chafe protection for future storm events.5:54

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