Sailing Catalpavideo
Time for a change of scenery Episode 493
May 31, 2026 · 15 min · 13K views · Las Perlas Islands
Two women dive off sailboat into open ocean
What this video covers
The crew of the yacht Catalpa prepares for a Pacific crossing from Panama to French Polynesia by performing maintenance and installing new electronics. Lee installs an Orca display system as a redundant navigation backup to the boat's primary Raymarine unit, allowing for wireless integration with existing wind and depth instruments.▶ 0:16 During a short trip to the Las Perlas Islands, the crew tests a 125-pound Mantis Marine M1 anchor and observes the performance of a new propeller while motoring.▶ 5:15 Lee performs a rig check, replacing a damaged antenna at the masthead and inspecting the headsail for UV cover damage.▶ 8:52 The vessel’s electrical system, upgraded with Renogy solar panels, maintains power output during cloudy conditions.▶ 10:23 The crew also prepares to service a 15-horsepower Mercury outboard by winching the dinghy onto the stern.▶ 10:44 The owners announce a one-time, paid "virtual crew" program for the upcoming passage, offering subscribers exclusive behind-the-scenes updates and a private documentary upon arrival in French Polynesia.▶ 11:49
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