Sailing Avantivideo
Trouble in Tonga EP77
August 10, 2023 · 13 min · 9K views · Vavaʻu
What this video covers
The crew of the sailing yacht Avanti, Gerard and Jacqueline, encountered multiple mechanical and electrical failures while cruising the Vavaʻu island group in Tonga. During an anchoring maneuver, the crew inadvertently fouled their propeller and sail drive with a fishing line, requiring an underwater inspection and the removal of the propeller anode to ensure no line remained wrapped around the shaft or seals.1:05 The vessel also suffered from two failed house batteries that self-discharged to 10.8 volts, forcing the crew to disconnect them and disable the freezer to conserve power for the upcoming passage to Fiji.11:03 Additionally, the crew discovered contaminated diesel fuel in a jerry can sourced in Panama City, which contained a thick, oily residue.9:12 They successfully avoided introducing the tainted fuel into the main keel tank by inspecting samples before transfer.10:52 The crew concluded their time in Tonga by visiting Swallows Cave before preparing for the transit to Fiji.8:11
More from Sailing Avanti
From Sailing Avanti — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.