Sailing Zephyr IVvideo
Learn Solo Docking and Anchoring from 82-year-old
June 9, 2026 · 16 min · 42K views · Gosport, United Kingdom
Dave at helm of Zephyr IV sailing in bright sun
What this video covers
Dave, an 82-year-old solo sailor, demonstrates single-handed departure, passage, anchoring, and return aboard Zephyr IV, a Westerly Yachts Ltd. Oceanquest 35, sailing from Gosport to Osborne Bay on the north coast of the Isle of Wight.Watch The pre-departure checklist, posted on the bulkhead, sequences engine start before instruments to prevent a 12-volt spike from locking up electronics.1:09 A single central cleat line holds the boat to the pontoon while all other mooring lines are removed, allowing a clean solo departure.2:31 Fenders are clipped to guardrails with nylon hooks to minimize eyes-down time, then dropped into the cockpit and tied to the pushpit.7:12 The autopilot is essential throughout: it holds course while the genoa is trimmed and while fenders and lines are handled on return.6:11 The mainsail is raised head-to-wind using an electric winch handle.7:54 At Osborne Bay, the anchor is dropped under sail in light conditions — wind and tide both from the east — with chain paid out gradually as the boat stops moving forward; shore transits confirm no drag.9:37 Gusts reached 25 knots at anchor, prompting a single reef before departure.11:30 The electric windlass retrieves chain by hauling the catenary in stages.11:56 A failed first docking attempt alongside a wide French boat is shown without cuts; Dave reverses out and re-approaches.13:59 Solo sailing demands thinking through fender and line handling, sail hoisting spots, and helm management before leaving the dock.15:15
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