WEsail · video

What this video covers

Navigating the Tuamotu Archipelago requires precise timing of atoll passes to coincide with slack tide, as currents can reach several knots and create hazardous conditions for cruising vessels.3:54 The crew of a sailing vessel transits 75 nautical miles from Rauria to Makemo, French Polynesia, attempting to time their arrival for a slack tide window.0:47 Despite consulting wind models and planning for specific tide cycles, the crew encounters unexpected current strength and must navigate an outgoing tide while entering the Makemo pass.15:03 They rely on Navionics and OpenCPN to track their position through the reef entrance, maintaining a slow speed of 1.5 knots against the current.17:01 Once inside the atoll, the crew discovers their anchor chain is fouled on coral, necessitating a manual inspection and repositioning.23:57 The experience highlights the difficulty of coordinating passage planning with limited local infrastructure, where restaurant and shop hours are restricted by both island culture and limited supply deliveries.26:32

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