Acorn To Arabella · video

What this video covers

The crew of the wooden schooner Arabella transits the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal into the Chesapeake Bay, navigating through dense fog using radar, AIS, and MarineTraffic. The vessel maintains a 9-knot current astern while heading toward Annapolis.2:32 The crew emphasizes the necessity of redundant navigation tools—specifically radar and AIS—when visibility drops to near zero.8:55 Upon arrival in Annapolis, the crew visits the Annapolis Maritime Museum to study the history of the Chesapeake oyster industry, noting that only 1% of the original oyster population remains due to overfishing and pollution.12:59 The segment also features a discussion with Matt and Jessica of MJ Sailing, who are currently building a custom fiberglass catamaran on Kent Island.15:55 They detail the challenges of a multi-year self-build, including the labor-intensive process of fairing interiors and the transition from monohull sailing to a performance catamaran.17:41 The builders highlight the differences in helm feedback, noting that catamarans require more visual monitoring compared to the tactile feel of a monohull.22:57

More from Acorn To Arabella

Saying Goodbye to Newfoundland—and the Man Who Inspired ArabellaSep 2026Upgrading the Rudder and Another Trek To The CliffAug 2026We're Climbing a Wall No One Has Ever Climbed Before | Rock Climbing on Newfoundland's South CoastJul 2026Exploring Newfoundland's Unclimbed Coastal Cliffs by SailboatJul 2026

From Acorn To Arabella — 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.