Hugh Robertson Sailing · video

What this video covers

A solo sailor transiting from Mauritius to Richards Bay, South Africa, prepares for a forecasted low-pressure system while sailing a broad reach in the South Indian Ocean. Positioned 150 miles south of Madagascar, the vessel maintains 5 to 7 knots using a triple-reefed mainsail, full jib, and a storm jib poled out to starboard for stability. To mitigate heavy weather, the sailor secures all deck gear, including the dinghy, kayak, and fuel containers, and installs a Jordan Series Drogue with a custom bridle system. Cabin preparations include securing the fridge, stowing loose items, and rigging a lee cloth on the port bunk for the starboard tack. The sailor monitors a nearby oil tanker, the Maran Athena, using an ICOM AIS unit to track its closest point of approach. PredictWind weather models indicate the boat will skirt the edge of a low-pressure system, avoiding the highest wind speeds near the Madagascar coast.

Boats in this video

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