Hashtag Sal · video

What this video covers

A 45-ft sailboat, the *Libra*, completed a long-distance circumnavigation involving a solo Pacific crossing after the owner’s engine suffered a critical fuel-injection pump failure.6:52 While sailing from New Zealand toward Vanuatu, the owner discovered diesel leaking into the engine’s oil crankcase, requiring oil changes every 20 hours.18:46 The vessel relied exclusively on a wind vane self-steering system for the majority of the voyage, as the crew lacked an autopilot.9:41 During a previous leg from the Galapagos to the Marquesas, the crew tore their genoa in strong trade winds but continued using the mainsail and a gennaker.9:23 The vessel also survived a tsunami alert in the Galapagos, where the crew had to quickly reassemble a saltwater pump to depart the anchorage.5:35 In Vanuatu, the voyage was further delayed for one month in Port Vila after a crew member required hospitalization for a severe foot infection.17:19 The owner emphasizes that mechanical simplicity and experience with wind vane adjustments are essential for long-term offshore cruising.

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