Garrett’s Adventure · video

What this video covers

A 550-mile, five-day passage from Aitutaki, Cook Islands, to Niue results in recurring fuel contamination, forcing the owner to manually extract water and sludge from the bottom of the fuel tank.2:18 After cleaning the fuel system, the boat completes a 230-mile transit to Vava'u, Tonga, despite persistent engine performance issues characterized by black exhaust soot and a 2,500 RPM limit.6:02 Troubleshooting reveals a clean propeller and hull, suggesting the engine trouble persists despite filter changes and oil monitoring.6:49 Upon arrival in Neiafu, the owner clears customs using a makeshift yellow file folder as a quarantine flag.12:00 The Vava'u lagoon requires mooring balls rather than anchoring, with strict local regulations including a five-knot speed limit, a conservative dress code, and a ban on drones.13:38 Prolonged offshore passages in humid conditions lead to significant mold growth throughout the vessel, necessitating deep cleaning upon arrival.13:16

More from Garrett’s Adventure

Fixing 87 Osmosis Blisters on my SailboatAug 2026Running my Sailboat VERY agroundMay 2026Sailing to and Exploring Remote Islands on Australia's East Coast NSWApr 2026Living on a Sailboat in SydneyApr 2026

From Garrett’s Adventure — 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.