keeldraggervideo

Sailing to Santa Cruz Island (May 2021)

1 June 2021 · 20 min · 1K views · Santa Cruz Island

What this video covers

A 75-mile overnight passage from San Pedro, California, to Santa Cruz Island requires careful navigation of shipping lanes and monitoring of wind shifts. The crew motor-sails the route, managing a 13-knot beam wind and navigating around large commercial traffic like the 780-foot ship *Coventry*.2:20 Upon arrival at Smuggler's Cove, the crew anchors in a protected area with about 16 other vessels, experiencing winds up to 22 knots.19:45 The passage highlights the utility of a B&G Vulcan 12 chartplotter, specifically its night-mode functionality, and the effectiveness of a UK lazy cradle and Tides Marine strong track system for single-handed mainsail management.7:19 Dinghy landings at Smuggler's Cove prove challenging due to surf and rocky terrain, requiring precise timing with the swell and the use of wetsuits.13:30 The crew successfully executes a beach landing and launch, noting that morning conditions offer the safest window for shore access.17:57 Testing new gear at the dock before departure prevents rigging errors during the passage.7:58

Watch on YouTube

Boats in this video

Valiant Yachts 40-2Their boat

More from keeldragger

Sailing to Keeldraggerpalooza (July 2026)Aug 2026Single-handed sail to Two Harbors, Catalina Island (June 2026)Jun 2026Sweet Home Catalina... and Island White (May 2026)Jun 2026OPB: Crewing aboard Beneteau 57, "Vanishing Point", from LA Harbor to San Diego (May 2026)May 2026

From keeldragger — 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.

Report an issue