SailingAlone · video

What this video covers

A solo sailor aboard the boat *Raikia* navigates 1,500 nautical miles from Darwin, Australia, to Christmas Island, contending with multiple equipment failures and insurance complications. Early in the passage, a loose mainsheet shackle causes the boom to swing uncontrollably in light air.1:57 Near Ashmore Reef, the engine loses oil pressure due to a double-gasket error on the oil filter; the sailor repairs the leak and anchors in 30 meters of water.3:40 During the subsequent 1,000-nautical-mile leg, a squall snaps the spinnaker pole.11:04 The sailor manages to reach Christmas Island, where a local metal shop welds the alloy pole.13:31 While offshore, the sailor receives notice that their insurer, Pantanius, has canceled coverage for solo sailors.12:53 Upon arrival at Christmas Island, the sailor navigates mooring buoys solo and explores the island’s crab-populated rainforests and beaches.12:51 The trip highlights the necessity of carrying spare engine components and the logistical challenges of solo maintenance in remote locations.

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