Sailing La Vagabonde · video

What this video covers

A catamaran crew sailing from Vanuatu to Fiji lost both rudders at sea, forcing them to navigate 48 hours back to Tanna Island using a makeshift drogue steering system.4:47 The emergency rig consisted of a 100-meter bridle attached to the sheet winches, 10 meters of chain, and a reinforced plastic milk crate.6:15 The crew successfully entered the anchorage at Tanna Island at night while an active volcano erupted nearby.6:34 Replacement rudders were later machined and installed after being flown to the vessel.7:47

In Tonga, the crew participated in a guided whale-swimming excursion, noting that local regulations prohibit touching humpback whales and often restrict private vessels from conducting independent whale encounters.9:20 The visit also included snorkeling at a beach and swimming into the submerged entrance of Mariners Cave.11:05 The crew attended a traditional kava ceremony in a local Tongan village.12:27 The vessel utilizes Raymarine electronics for navigation and fishing spot identification.10:42

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