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We Finally Start Sailing Baja (Overnight Passage) | Nauticat 43 ⛵ Sailing 8

12 February 2026 · 27 min · 2K views · Cedros Island

What this video covers

A Nauticat 43 sailing from Ensenada, Mexico, toward La Paz encounters multiple mechanical failures and challenging weather during a series of coastal passages.Watch The crew experiences autopilot malfunctions, difficulty steering due to suspected kelp fouling on the rudder, and a significant fuel system failure caused by algae contamination in the 130-gallon port fuel tank. To maintain their schedule and avoid incoming gales, the crew performs overnight passages, including a 180-mile run to Turtle Bay, while coordinating with a buddy boat. Technical repairs conducted at anchor include installing an Ethernet cable to network two chart plotters and adjusting the alternator mounting to improve battery charging. The crew relies on local anchorages like Bahia San Quentin and Isla Asuncion to shelter from 35-to-40-knot winds and 10-foot seas.2:01 Persistent mechanical issues and poor survey results lead the owners to plan for extensive fuel system cleaning and tank maintenance before continuing south.

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Boats in this video

Nauticat 43Their boat

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