Sailing Catalpa · video

What this video covers

The crew of the 45-ft sailboat Catalpa prepares for an overnight passage from Punta Mita, Mexico, to Barra de Navidad while troubleshooting multiple mechanical failures. The primary issue involves a failing outboard motor used for the dinghy, which suffers from a corroded mounting bracket and a spun propeller hub. To retrieve a crew member from the beach, the captain drills three screws through the propeller housing into the internal rubber bushing to create a temporary mechanical lock. The outboard also requires wire ties to secure the gear-shift linkage. Additionally, the crew repairs a marine toilet after a failed lip seal causes the motor to seize and trip the breaker.1:16 They perform extensive meal preparation, including baking bread and muffins, to minimize cooking requirements during the 100-nautical-mile transit.8:04 The crew plans to depart despite the outboard's unreliability, noting the approach of hurricane season and the need to move south.9:03

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