Sam Holmes Sailing · video

What this video covers

A 38-ft sailboat transits the Sulu Sea from the South China Sea toward Sandakan, Malaysia, navigating shallow reefs and avoiding submerged fishing traps.0:28 The crew manages light winds and frequent tacking, occasionally motoring to maintain progress.0:58 During the passage, they perform maintenance on the mainsail outhaul, replacing a poorly rigged line and 3D-printing new PETG sheaves to improve sail shape.9:42 They also remove, sand, and reseal acrylic windows using Dowsil silicone, applying the sealant at night to prevent thermal expansion during the curing process.13:29 Upon arrival in Sandakan, the crew secures the boat at a local yacht club, utilizes a kayak for shore access to avoid dock damage, and completes immigration formalities.9:16 Shore-based activities include a guided river tour on the Kinabatangan River to view wildlife, including crocodiles and pygmy elephants, and a visit to a rainforest canopy skywalk.13:47 Proper sealant application and correct rigging geometry significantly reduce maintenance time and improve sail performance.

More from Sam Holmes Sailing

We hit a log sailing by strange Indonesian sea platformsAug 2026Sandakan and Wildlife of BorneoAug 2026Kota Kinabalu Bound: Sailing, Survivor Island, Squalls, and Bugs, 3d printingJul 2026Sailing to Brunei, an unusual countryJul 2026

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