I completed 100 days alone at sea - Ep. 24
October 24, 2024 · 33 min · 6K views · Southern Ocean south of New Zealand
What this video covers
Andre M Homem de Mello marks 100 days of solo circumnavigation while becalmed at 49 degrees South latitude, struggling with persistent light winds and heavy swell.23:49 The lack of wind causes the sails to slat violently, forcing the sailor to strike the staysail to prevent further damage to the fabric.18:47 The wind generator remains inoperable due to a recurring electrical short, requiring the engine to run daily to charge the batteries.22:32 During this period, a large Japanese fishing vessel approaches the boat, prompting the sailor to monitor the situation via VHF channel 16, though no contact occurs.17:41 The area attracts numerous albatrosses, likely feeding on scraps from the fishing boat.20:26 Despite the frustration of slow progress—averaging only 60 miles per day—the sailor maintains his logbook and continues toward Cape Horn.15:12 The lack of wind in a region typically dominated by the westerlies creates significant challenges for maintaining momentum and sleep.8:55
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