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BIG SQUALLS in the Pacific! The Struggles of Sailing Across an Ocean (EP 40)

February 18, 2024 · 24 min · 17K views · Pacific Ocean

What this video covers

The 37-foot Swan Elixir completed a 2,800-nautical-mile Pacific Ocean crossing from Mexico to the Marquesas, encountering persistent squalls and heavy rain near the equator.0:17 During a 30-knot gust, a steep wave knocked the boat onto its side, disabling the self-steering gear and forcing the crew to hand-steer until conditions stabilized.1:44 The crew managed the passage by reefing the mainsail and genoa in anticipation of frequent tropical squalls, which brought torrential rain and 25-to-30-knot winds.11:24 Despite the weather, the vessel maintained consistent progress, averaging 140 to 150 miles per day while reaching in the southeast trade winds.19:41 The crew utilized a new mainsail from Precision Sails, which increased boat speed by approximately one knot.3:41 After 23 days at sea, the crew made landfall at Fatou Hiva.20:46 Constant sail adjustments and reefing are necessary to maintain control when navigating tropical convergence zones characterized by frequent, high-wind squalls.

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Boats in this video

Swan 37Their boat

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