Breaking Waves · video

What this video covers

After running aground on a reef in the Tuamotu Islands, the crew of the sailboat Kiana attempts a multi-day salvage operation with the help of local volunteers.Watch The boat remains heeled over and stuck on the reef, requiring the owners to negotiate a contract with local boat operators for towing services.0:50 Initial efforts to pivot the boat and drag it into deeper water fail due to insufficient water depth and the weight of the nine-ton vessel.8:51 The salvage team employs various techniques, including using oil drums filled with water to heel the boat, placing bamboo pipes under the keel as rollers, and clearing coral heads by hand.13:58 The crew also lightens the boat by dumping water tanks and removing heavy gear.17:49 Success eventually comes when increased wind and wave action provide enough water under the hull to allow the towing boats to pull Kiana off the reef.23:56 The owners emphasize the necessity of local community support and specialized equipment for such rescues.30:00

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