Hugh Robertson Sailing · video

What this video covers

A solo circumnavigator aboard a 1989 Pacific Seacraft 34, *Sea Change*, details 13 unconventional practices adopted during a 2022–2025 voyage.0:01 To manage solo operations, the sailor eschewed AIS transmission to save power and avoid detection in remote areas, relying instead on VHF radio to coordinate passage with ships.3:14 Seasickness was mitigated by taking 25mg Stuteron tablets and positioning the bunk and stove near the boat’s pivot point.5:23 Sleep management involved playing loud music to mask ambient noise while remaining alert to changing conditions.9:05 Safety protocols were minimal; the sailor rarely used harnesses or life jackets, preferring to secure the mainsail by leaning over the boom.11:04 Water management relied on rainwater collection from the side decks rather than a water maker.15:32 The vessel lacked hull insurance, though liability coverage was secured via Pantanius Australia to access marinas in New Zealand and Australia.17:51 Maintenance included frequent mast climbs using a jumar and Dyneema rigging, while a custom preventer system replaced the boom vang to prevent accidental jibes.21:31

Boats in this video

More from Hugh Robertson Sailing

26 differences from most other cruisers, part 2 of 2Apr 202630 stories of sailors less fortunate than me during my ocean-sailing years on Sea ChangeJan 202630 mistakes I made and things that broke on my solo circumnavigation on Sea Change, Part 3 of 3Dec 202530 mistakes I made and things that broke on my solo circumnavigation on Sea Change, Part 2 of 3Dec 2025

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