Sailing Zephyr IVvideo
30 knot Westerly Winds Test Us on the First Day of Our Sailing Adventure
July 18, 2025 · 15 min · 4K views · Newtown Creek, Isle of Wight
What this video covers
In early June 2025, the crew of Zephyr IV attempts a coastal passage from Cowes toward the West Country, contending with strong westerly winds.Watch During the initial leg, the crew encounters 30-knot winds, necessitating a deep reef in the genoa and a single reef in the main.1:19 After reaching Newtown Creek to seek shelter from uncomfortable conditions in the Solent, the crew waits for a favorable weather window using PredictWind forecasts.6:01 Once conditions moderate, they depart for Portland, navigating past Hurst Castle and St. Albans Head.9:02 To avoid the Lulworth Ranges and the race off St. Albans Head, the crew maintains a wide offshore track before jibing toward the Portland Harbour entrance.11:39 They secure a berth at Portland Marina on the visitors pontoon.14:25 The passage demonstrates the necessity of monitoring tidal flow against wind direction to manage sea state and the importance of timing departures around headlands like St. Albans Head to avoid rough water.
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