Sailing Gently · video

What this video covers

A lightning strike on a 36-foot Moody 36, *Bambola 4*, while anchored in the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., destroyed the vessel's entire suite of electronics, including the VHF radio, radar, single sideband radio, and sailing instruments.1:15 The strike also blew a core plug out of the Thornycroft engine block, causing a coolant leak.6:51 With no working navigation electronics, the owner performed a 100-mile passage to a boatyard in Cambridge, Maryland, using paper charts and a temporary, hull-bonded echo sounder.9:11 Insurance provider Pantanius covered the estimated $55,000 in damages, which included replacing the wiring, autopilot, and navigation systems.15:36 The repair process required hauling the boat, unstepping the mast for rigging inspection, and recalibrating the compass.15:15 The owner notes that lightning strike rates are significantly higher for catamarans than monohulls.0:52 A comprehensive insurance policy that covers lightning damage and provides support for yard selection and surveyor coordination is essential for long-term cruisers.17:26

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