Vagabond Voyages · video

What this video covers

The crew of the sailboat Vagabond seeks shelter in the Toau atoll, French Polynesia, to wait out a week of strong winds forecasted by the ECMWF and GFS weather models. After departing Fakarava, they navigate the 14-nautical-mile passage at a speed of four knots to time their arrival for favourable tidal currents at the pass.3:31 Upon arrival, they secure the vessel to a mooring buoy and double the dinghy’s lines to withstand gusts reaching 40 knots.17:43 The crew manages onboard resources by collecting 40 litres of rainwater and operating an Ecotech watermaker powered by the main engine.2:22 Daily life during the weather-bound period includes sewing a custom outboard motor cover, organising a medical kit, and preparing meals from stored provisions.8:30 Despite the challenging conditions and high winds that cause the boat to heel at anchor, the crew celebrates their eighth wedding anniversary while anchored in the protected eastern side of the atoll.18:56

More from Vagabond Voyages

We were running out of everything… | Vanuatu Vlog #139Sept 2026We had to leave… we didn't know what to expect | Vanuatu Vlog #138Sept 2026We didn't expect this in Ambrym! | Sailing Vanuatu. Vlog 137Sept 2026Vanuatu: Teak bungs... then the worst seasickness of my life. Vlog 136Aug 2026

From Vagabond Voyages — 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.