Untide · video

What this video covers

The 37-foot Sparkman & Stephens Swan *Elixir* sails 30 nautical miles north within the Fakarava atoll in the Tuamotus, navigating consistent beam winds and flat water.0:58 The crew anchors in 10 meters of water using a snubber to relieve load from the windlass and a fender on the chain to prevent snagging on coral bommies.6:58 They verify the anchor’s hold by backing down with the engine and diving on the gear.6:10 Following a week of diving at the South Pass, the crew cycles the length of the atoll and resupplies in the town of Rotoava. *Elixir* then departs for a 250-mile passage to Tahiti, sailing downwind with two reefs in the main.13:23 With a reduced crew of two, they maintain a four-hour watch schedule.13:58 The passage concludes in squally conditions near Papeete.15:02 Using a snubber and backing down on the anchor are essential practices for securing a vessel in coral-heavy atoll anchorages.

Boats in this video

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