S3, Ep30 Our Tie Dye Spinnaker
July 21, 2025 · 22 min · 291 views · San Diego
What this video covers
The crew of the 1966 vessel *Into the Mystic* prepares for a trip to Catalina Island by installing a temporary 200-watt solar array and rigging the mast for a newly acquired spinnaker. To power the boat at anchor, they wire two 100-watt panels in series to a 20-amp charge controller, routing cables through a cabin window to avoid drilling permanent deck fittings.0:57 For the spinnaker, they mount a bale to the mast to secure a pole block and replace a flickering anchor light.10:03
During a sea trial with friends, the crew tests a rigid dinghy with four passengers before deploying their used, tie-dye-patterned spinnaker.12:35 They initially struggle to fill the sail in light, glassy conditions until they lower the mainsail to clear the wind shadow.20:13 The spinnaker, equipped with a sock for easier handling, successfully propels the boat at approximately 1.3 knots.21:27 The crew notes that a dedicated spinnaker pole would improve sail shape and performance in future outings.22:23
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