practicalboatownervideo
Straight or south? Transatlantic crews compare voyages
December 13, 2021 · 2 min · 1K views
What this video covers
A crew aboard the Morgan of Sark completed a transatlantic voyage by prioritizing a southern route to find consistent wind.1:33 The strategy required sailing 150 miles beyond the direct rhumb line, reaching as far south as 10 degrees latitude.2:01 Despite initial concerns about boredom and seasickness, the crew maintained a peaceful environment over 50 days.0:26 The plotter provided regular updates on fleet positioning, which caused temporary anxiety when the boat trailed northern competitors by 50 to 60 miles.1:50 Increased wind speeds eventually validated the southern course, though the crew encountered significant seaweed in the lower latitudes.1:56 A second vessel opted for a more direct, northern route, resulting in a shorter distance but slower speeds due to lighter winds.2:42 This crew relied on twin headsails for dead downwind sailing, reporting a wet and rolly passage.2:51 Choosing a longer southern route can provide the necessary wind for heavier displacement vessels to maintain speed compared to a direct, light-wind northern track.2:17
More from practicalboatowner
From practicalboatowner — 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.