Patrick Lainevideo
EP 71 Sailing from Panama to Cape Horn nonstop
March 29, 2026 · 40 min · 29K views · about 1,200 miles off the coast of Chile
Sailing vessel approaches Cape Horn under stormy skies
What this video covers
A 1999 Bavaria 40 sails from Panama to Cape Horn, navigating a wide offshore route to maintain a 40-degree apparent wind angle and avoid 4,000 miles of upwind beating against prevailing southerly winds.0:39 The crew manages energy autonomy using solar panels, maintaining full battery charge for 15 days without engine use.6:55 During the passage, the captain jams the in-mast furler by over-tensioning it with an electric winch, necessitating a jury-rigged repair to the plastic plate and set screws.5:53 The vessel encounters 50-knot winds and 5-meter seas, resulting in a knockdown that destroys the spray hood.27:20 The boat utilizes two independent, redundant autopilot systems: a B&G hydraulic ram and a Raymarine sprocket-and-chain drive.35:11 To safely round Cape Horn, the crew monitors weather depressions to time their passage between successive wave systems.31:28 The voyage concludes with a transit to Puerto Williams, Chile.35:30 Proper tethering and harness use are essential for safety in heavy weather, particularly when moving about the cockpit or cabin during high-wind conditions.
Boats in this video
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