Sailing Avantivideo
Strong winds, sailing to Obaldia Panama EP46
January 5, 2023 · 14 min · 396 views · Santa Marta
What this video covers
Gerard and Jacqueline sail their 41-foot monohull Avanti from Santa Marta, Colombia, to Puerto Obaldia, Panama, on a two-day passage.1:00 To avoid debris from the Magdalena River near Barranquilla, they maintain a course roughly 1,000 meters deep.6:58 Encountering winds gusting to 30 knots, the crew reduces the mainsail to three reefs and sails wing-on-wing with a pole to maintain an average speed of nearly 7 knots.7:17 They manage water accumulation in the bilge during the rough conditions and use OpenCPN software with imported charts from a fellow cruiser to navigate the poorly surveyed approach to Panama.9:16 Upon arrival at Puerto Obaldia, the crew clears customs independently by registering with the police, immigration, and the harbor master, securing a one-year cruising permit for approximately $200.13:46 They note that Puerto Obaldia offers little protection from wind or swell and is unsuitable for an extended stay.14:03 Proper sail trimming and reefing significantly improve motion and comfort in heavy following seas.4:43
More from Sailing Avanti
From Sailing Avanti — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.