Sailing Zephyr IVvideo
Plymouth to Falmouth Sailing Zephyr IV
August 23, 2025 · 12 min · 2K views · English Channel, off the coast of Cornwall
What this video covers
Dave and Bill sail the 38-ft sloop Zephyr IV from Plymouth to Falmouth, England, covering approximately 40 nautical miles. The passage begins with light southerly to easterly winds, allowing for a beam reach at speeds of 6 to 7 knots.0:50 As they approach Dodman’s Point, the wind increases and the sea state becomes rolly.6:11 Upon reaching the Falmouth entrance, wind gusts exceed 30 knots, forcing the crew to abandon plans for an anchorage at St Mawes and seek shelter further up the River Fal.7:35
Seeking provisions, the crew attempts to navigate the narrow channel toward Truro based on information from a channel pilot.8:45 While motoring, Zephyr IV runs aground in 1.3 meters of water on a rising tide.10:19 Local harbor authorities assist in refloating the vessel, which then moors at a visitor’s pontoon in Malpas.10:24 The crew confirms that local knowledge from harbor masters is more reliable than outdated chart data when navigating narrow, shallow river channels.10:37
Boats in this video
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