Vagabond Voyagesvideo
Engine trouble & stuck anchor + unexpected regatta. Vlog 82
June 27, 2025 · 26 min · 8K views · Raiatea
What this video covers
A 15-meter sailboat experiences recurring engine stalling and a persistent whistling noise while cruising in French Polynesia. Troubleshooting reveals an air leak in the fuel system caused by a damaged rubber seal on the bleed screw, which the crew replaces with an aluminum washer.7:45 The engine’s whistling noise persists despite tensioning the drive belt and eventually replacing it with a spare.4:10 The crew discovers the replacement belt is also failing, likely due to age, and plans to source a new one in Raiatea.8:18 During the same period, the crew encounters a fouled anchor chain caught on a coral head; they free it by maneuvering the boat to keep the chain slack while operating the windlass.21:07 While departing, the vessel inadvertently enters the middle of a local regatta, forcing the crew to navigate through a fleet of racing boats.24:21 The crew notes that Starlink connectivity is unreliable during heavy rain and lightning storms.11:35
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