Sailing Magic Carpet · video

What this video covers

A 28-foot sailboat navigating the Rhône River in mid-November faces extreme upstream currents that frequently reduce speed over ground to less than one knot, even at 4,000 RPM.0:09 Between the towns of Tarrascon and Beaucare, the river narrows, creating intense whirlpools that threaten to turn the vessel sideways.5:11 Navionics charts correctly identify these high-current zones near bridges.5:16 The crew manages the river’s power by timing departures to avoid peak hydroelectric dam discharge periods, which fluctuate based on electrical demand.3:11 After passing the first major lock, the Ecluse d'Avignon, the current eases significantly, allowing for speeds of three to four knots.10:17 The crew utilizes lock bollards that rise with the water level to simplify mooring.9:28 Overnight stops occur at docks located outside of towns, which lack shore power and water but provide secure mooring near riverbanks.12:12

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