WEsail · video

What this video covers

The crew of the sailboat Wolfhound transits the Panama Canal over two days, moving from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean.1:19 The 50-mile journey requires a pilot to take control of the vessel through the locks, which function as massive elevators to lift and lower boats 85 feet.6:58 During the first night, the vessel experiences dangerous backwash from a large ship, forcing the boat against the concrete lock wall.12:04 A crew member prevents hull damage by manually deploying a fender between the boat and the wall while the line handlers on the lock wall struggle to secure the lines.12:42 On the second day, the vessel joins a convoy, rafting alongside a local ferry boat to descend into the Pacific.14:35 The transit involves strict communication protocols and the use of messenger lines attached to the bite of the main lines to ensure they can be released from bollards.3:18 Proper line management and coordination between the crew and the pilot are essential to avoid collisions in the turbulent water of the locks.12:38

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