The Mariner · video

What this video covers

A 100-day countdown to the 2025 Fastnet Race begins with a major refit of an 85-foot racing yacht currently moored in Nova Scotia.Watch The vessel, which features a carbon fiber mast and 20 tons of water ballast, requires a comprehensive overhaul before its transatlantic delivery to England.2:33 Primary maintenance tasks include replacing the house battery bank, servicing the Volvo Penta TAMD 31 engine, and installing new solar panels.6:53 The host replaces two failed house batteries with a 24-volt configuration, cleaning all terminals and applying dielectric grease to prevent corrosion and ensure consistent power for the autopilot.14:05 Additional planned work involves painting the deck, replacing the aging mainsail, and upgrading to lithium-ion phosphate batteries to improve electrical capacity.3:27 The interior, constructed of marine-grade plywood, provides necessary storage for solo sailing gear despite adding approximately 1,200 kilograms to the boat's displacement.9:37 The project focuses on systematic, daily maintenance tasks to prepare the vessel for the upcoming race.5:01

More from The Mariner

Sailing to Newport, my Trimaran Project & Notes on Archive Management for L- Matrix AI'sJul 2026Taking a Look Around the Waterfront in Lunenburg, Nova ScotiaJun 2026Solo Docking an 80ft Yacht Without Use Of The Auxillary EngineMay 2026Introducing Longitudinal AI SystemsMay 2026

From The Mariner — 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.