Sailing Spyvideo
Small Boat Winter Cruising Baja - Can you taste it?
27 April 2023 · 19 min · 834 views · La Paz
What this video covers
Aaron and Allie, sailing the vessel Spy in Baja, Mexico, face energy deficits caused by their water maker and refrigeration system.2:50 The existing solar array fails to keep the batteries charged, forcing frequent engine use.2:55 Upon reaching La Paz, the crew sources two used 80-watt solar panels from the local VHF cruisers' net and constructs a custom mounting system using $35 stainless steel tubing.4:13 Aaron installs the panels with adjustable mounts to optimise sun exposure, increasing peak solar output from 6.8 amps to 8 amps.7:34 This upgrade eliminates the need to run the engine for battery charging, allowing the boat to remain at anchor for extended periods.8:12 While waiting out winter Norte winds in Bahia Falsa and Espirito Santo, the crew practices freediving with assistance from the crew of the vessel Australia, including dives on the sunken ship Feng Ming.11:58 They subsequently anchor in Caleta Partida to explore the local coastline.12:45 Upgrading solar capacity allows for independent operation of high-draw appliances like water makers in remote anchorages.
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