Sailing SV Cordeliavideo

MASSIVE WAVES between the islands caught us OFF GUARD

December 6, 2024 · 20 min · 2K views · Martinique

What this video covers

The crew of SV Cordelia, a cruising sailboat, encounters heavy seas and three-meter waves while transiting the Caribbean Sea between Martinique, Dominica, and Guadeloupe.0:13 During the 18-to-24-hour passage, the crew maintains a conservative sail plan, utilizing only the mizzen and staysail to manage heavy wind and prevent excessive heeling.8:28 The vessel experiences significant motion, with waves occasionally washing into the cockpit, though the boat handles the conditions without slamming.11:45 The crew reports acid reflux and fatigue due to the uncomfortable motion and lack of food during the transit.13:33 After clearing out of Saint Pierre, Martinique, the passage includes a calm period in the lee of Dominica before conditions intensify again in the open water between Dominica and Guadeloupe.14:02 The crew successfully reaches Les Saintes, Guadeloupe, to check in.16:36 The experience highlights the challenging, often uncomfortable nature of offshore passages between Caribbean islands, where wind and sea states can shift rapidly despite favorable forecasts.

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