Sam Holmes Sailingvideo

Start of my Solo Atlantic Crossing. Gambia to Cabo Verde

22 December 2024 · 39 min · 187K views · Banjul, Gambia

What this video covers

Sam Holmes sails his 8.5-meter boat from Banjul, Gambia, to Mindelo, Cabo Verde, on a solo passage covering approximately 421 nautical miles.11:45 The transit takes six days, with the first 24 hours hampered by light, variable winds and heavy fishing traffic near Dakar, Senegal.6:06 After clearing the coast, the boat settles into a consistent beam reach, averaging 5.6 knots.29:18 During the passage, the boat develops a significant bilge leak.15:41 Holmes traces the water ingress to a compromised deck-to-hull joint at the stern, which he temporarily seals with flexible tape.20:59 He also inspects the PSS shaft seal and through-hull fittings, finding them dry.16:07 Upon arrival in Mindelo, he secures a slip at the local marina to access water and power.33:40 The passage concludes with a brief excursion on a rented scooter to explore the island’s terrain.36:05

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