My last long passage below the Bahamas - S4 E14 Turks and Caicos to Cay Sal Bank
October 23, 2025 · 25 min · 560 views · Cay Sal Bank
What this video covers
A Pacific Seacraft 34 sailing from the Turks and Caicos toward the Cay Sal Bank encounters a severe, unforecast wind event estimated at 40 to 50 knots.14:21 The storm lacks rain or lightning, resembling a land-based derecho, and forces the vessel to sail under a reduced jib for eight hours.12:08 Throughout the 500-mile passage, the solo sailor navigates shifting weather systems, avoids Hogstie Reef, and manages heavy sargassum that fouls the rudder and wind vane.6:53 The route requires crossing the Old Bahama Channel, necessitating careful monitoring of AIS to avoid container ships and tankers in the narrow shipping lanes near the Cuban coast.15:04 After catching a three-foot barracuda, the sailor experiences symptoms of ciguatera poisoning and discards the remainder of the fish.17:23 The passage concludes with an anchorage in a sandy cove on the western edge of Anguilla Cay.24:29 Proper preparation for sudden, high-wind squalls and the ability to adapt routes based on real-time weather and sea state are essential for safe navigation in the Bahamas.
Boats in this video
More from Hugh Robertson Sailing
From Hugh Robertson Sailing — 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.