Vagabond Voyages · video

What this video covers

A couple sailing from Panama City to French Polynesia navigates the Pacific Ocean, opting to pass north of the Galapagos Islands to avoid adverse currents and heavy swell.0:51 During the transit, the crew faces inconsistent winds, frequent periods of calm, and a persistent current that forces them to rely on their engine for over 48 hours.6:16 They maintain a three-hour watch rotation, adjusting sails constantly to manage light, shifting winds.5:59 The route north of the archipelago is chosen to leverage the Panama current, though weather patterns—potentially influenced by El Niño or distant depressions—result in slower progress than anticipated.23:00 After nine days at sea, the vessel crosses into the Southern Hemisphere and successfully reaches the trade winds.16:27 The crew notes that departing Panama between January and March is optimal to avoid late-season headwinds, as attempting the passage too late can necessitate a return to port due to fuel and supply constraints.21:48

More from Vagabond Voyages

We were running out of everything… | Vanuatu Vlog #139Sep 2026We had to leave… we didn't know what to expect | Vanuatu Vlog #138Sep 2026We didn't expect this in Ambrym! | Sailing Vanuatu. Vlog 137Sep 2026Vanuatu: Teak bungs... then the worst seasickness of my life. Vlog 136Aug 2026

From Vagabond Voyages — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.