Our 8000 mile Journey Begins! | Leaving Baja Behind - Ep. 103
January 4, 2026 · 24 min · 2K views · Chametla, Mexico
Sunset over Gulf of California from sailboat
What this video covers
A Westerly Yachts Ltd. Discus 33 departs San Carlos, Mexico, for a 230-mile passage to La Paz, the first leg of an 8,000-mile journey to British Columbia.1:53 The crew encounters light, variable winds and confused seas throughout the Gulf of California, forcing multiple unplanned stops at Isla Carmen and San Evaristo to wait for favorable conditions.13:19 The vessel relies on a Hydrovane for self-steering when wind speeds allow, though the crew frequently adjusts sail trim and reefs to manage gusty gap winds blowing off the Baja Peninsula.4:05 To minimize engine hours and fuel consumption, the sailors prioritize sailing over motoring, often anchoring in remote locations to wait for steady breezes.17:50 Upon reaching La Paz, the crew plans to resupply, perform boat maintenance including an in-water through-hull valve replacement, and complete customs clearance before departing for Hawaii.23:56 The passage demonstrates the challenges of navigating the Gulf of California during the seasonal transition from northerly to southerly winds.
Boats in this video
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