59° North Sailingvideo
Matt Rutherford // Around the Arctic (in a Valiant This Time!)
May 5, 2026 · 1h 32m · 469 views
What this video covers
Matt Rutherford, known for his 2011 solo non-stop circumnavigation of the Americas in an Albin Vega, is preparing to circumnavigate the Arctic via both the Northwest and Northeast Passages aboard a Valiant 42 on loan from a 59 North crew member.7:12 Host Andy Schell interviews Rutherford and mutual friend Ryan Finstad in Annapolis ahead of departure.7:24 Rutherford details the refit: replacing corroded metal holding tanks, pulling and repainting both masts of the ketch rig down to bare metal using Interlux Toplac, and installing a Summit Racing automotive engine-coolant heater (~$175) tapped into the existing hot-water circuit for cabin heat.10:16 He explains why the Valiant 42 suits solo offshore sailing — short path from aft cabin to cockpit, cutter-ketch rig allowing single-line reefing and full sail trim from the cockpit, and no large U-shaped saloon berths.31:21 On ice, Rutherford notes fiberglass deflects glancing blows that dent steel, and describes the Arctic's primary hazard as sustained fog with ice requiring constant hand-steering.16:35 The Valiant's split HVAC system and lack of below-waterline insulation are also discussed.22:11 Andy Schell separately announces 59 North's purchase of Schooner Woodwind, two 74-foot Stacell schooners based in Annapolis.0:37
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