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Sailing solo across the Pacific Ocean. From Bora Bora to Suwarrow Atoll and on to Samoa.
4 October 2023 · 9 min · 51K views · Pacific Ocean
What this video covers
Dunkeln departs Bora Bora, French Polynesia, aiming to reach Samoa to avoid the approaching cyclone season.Watch Facing a forecast of 35-knot winds and 4.5-meter seas, he diverts to Suwarrow Atoll for shelter.3:33 He enters the pass after dark and anchors among three other vessels, but the lagoon offers poor protection from swell, causing the boat to pitch violently for two days.4:43 While attempting to launch his dinghy to explore the atoll, he accidentally engages the outboard motor's throttle, falls overboard, and loses his GoPro in 10 meters of water.5:34 He successfully recovers the camera using a diving mask.6:05 After exploring the island, which was once home to hermit Tom Neill, he completes the final 500-mile leg to Samoa.7:57 The transit takes 20 days instead of the planned ten due to persistent calms and adverse weather.9:03 The experience reinforces that long-distance sailing schedules remain subject to unpredictable conditions and that patience during forced delays is essential.
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