DrakeParagon · video

What this video covers

A crew sailing across the Bay of Biscay toward Gijón, Spain, manages boat speed and reefing configurations to outrun a forecast of 25- to 30-knot winds.1:13 Using PredictWind data via an Iridium Go satellite terminal, the sailors track a weather window that necessitates a nighttime arrival to avoid stronger winds expected later in the week.0:57 To maintain a target speed of 6 knots, the crew experiments with sail plans, including a full jib paired with a double-reefed main, while managing a preventer on a broad reach.11:32 The crew coordinates with a friend already in the marina to confirm dock availability and lighting conditions for the nighttime entry.3:34 Operational procedures include a three-hour watch rotation and specific battery bank switching protocols required to start the engine for auxiliary power.4:05 The crew monitors speed fluctuations caused by swell, adjusting the heading to optimize performance and minimize engine use.12:37

Boats in this video

More from DrakeParagon

Voyage Planning for an Early Sail - Sailing from Spain to Tunisia, Part 11 | DrakeParagon SailingOct 2026This Broke...And I'm Okay With That? Sailing from Spain to Tunisia, Part 10 | DrakeParagon SailingAug 2026Ramming Speed! - Sailing from Spain to Tunisia, Part 9 | DrakeParagon SailingAug 2026Our Sailing Apps: Sailing from Spain to Tunisia, Part 8 | DrakeParagon SailingAug 2026

From DrakeParagon — 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.