SmoCo Sailingvideo

[Ep 5] The WORST Start To Our Sailing Adventure: 29 Hours Of Nonstop Misery!

April 13, 2025 · 27 min · 487 views · Mexico

What this video covers

A couple departs Monterey, California, for a 29-hour coastal passage to Avila Beach, encountering 20- to 25-knot winds and beam seas that force them to hand-steer for most of the trip.20:28 The crew prepares for the departure by installing a redundant diesel fuel filter system, provisioning with a spreadsheet-managed inventory, and securing the dinghy and outboard on deck.0:50 During the transit, the boat experiences heavy rolling and misty rain, preventing the crew from cooking below deck and limiting sleep to 30 minutes.16:57 The pair avoids using the autopilot to surf the waves manually, successfully keeping all lashed gear, including paddleboards and electronics, secure despite the motion.25:23 Upon arrival at Avila Beach, the crew uses stand-up paddleboards to reach shore, where a landing mishap results in a soaked crew member and lost sunglasses.24:03 The passage serves as a high-stress shakedown that confirms the effectiveness of their interior stowage and gear-lashing preparations.20:47

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Boats in this video

Dufour Yachts 430 GRAND LARGETheir boat

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