We went sailing in 40 knots to see what we could learn! | Yachting Monthly

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  • čas přidán 1. 07. 2023
  • It’s one thing dealing with heavy weather sailing offshore, but what should coastal sailors do when a big blow is imminent? Yachting Monthly's Theo Stocker set out in 40 knot winds to find out.
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Komentáře • 496

  • @jamesgraham6122
    @jamesgraham6122 Před 10 měsíci +374

    Based on a lengthy career as a yacht delivery skipper, (though quite a few decades past :>) I might make a couple of suggestions..
    Especially when alone on watch, use two straps to hank yourself to the boat, one very short, this will anchor yourself in place and avoid being thrown across the cockpit onto something hard.. like a winch.. the second, a lengthy strap, that if you need to unhank the short strap in order to make some adjustment, will still ensure that you're attached. Using a single strap by knotting and releasing can become tiresome and difficult when tired, wet, cold. Secondly.. reduce watch times progressively and before fatigue sets in.. I've been down to 30 min per watch on a couple of very bad occasions. Fatigue can be a killer in several ways.

    • @harbourdogNL
      @harbourdogNL Před 10 měsíci +16

      Great tip about the double-tethering, thank you.

    • @alexandermenck6609
      @alexandermenck6609 Před 10 měsíci +8

      That’s compulsory in offshore racing for a while now. It has been known by experienced sailors - as you are - long before.

    • @kisero2222
      @kisero2222 Před 10 měsíci +5

      @@alexandermenck6609 transact races do not have guidelines on the number of tethers the sailor must have attached (it would be imposible to enforce). Is easy to validate what I say, simply read the rules.

    • @peterweltweit
      @peterweltweit Před 10 měsíci +7

      I got distracted by strapping me on. Stopped doing that, crossed Atl. 5 times singlehanded and logged about 50 th. miles. And i am still here to tell the story...

    • @genespell4340
      @genespell4340 Před 10 měsíci +16

      ​@@peterweltweitand many didn't live to tell their tales because they weren't tethered.

  • @lambertodgr8
    @lambertodgr8 Před 9 měsíci +87

    People used to tell me I was crazy for going sailing in bad weather.but my argument was that if you'd practiced in bad weather you wouldn't be surprised when it hit .
    I once went out rowing in a 40 knot gale in an 8ft Dinghy. I learned as much about rough weather boat handling in an hour than I had in 20 years .

    • @TOMVUTHEPIMP
      @TOMVUTHEPIMP Před 8 měsíci

      Thats just being stupid. You're not learning anything.

    • @nebraskatpp
      @nebraskatpp Před 7 měsíci +4

      That is s very good point and one we’ve done before. It’s great to take that advantage when you can use a different make and model to on those trips and even offer to those who may not get the opportunity very often. Your right, just keep an eye out for those who lose it though. They will kill themselves trying to save themselves. It happens, but if one is having a confident sail in rough conditions, it can be an exceptional learning experience. Remember, I’m not talking about wild weather conditions where the surface is completely white, just conditions to keep you on your toes and maybe sweat a little.

    • @liamaclellan3024
      @liamaclellan3024 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Rowing an 8 ft dinghy in 40kt...what was that like? Can't imagine you could make much headway...

    • @lambertodgr8
      @lambertodgr8 Před 6 měsíci +1

      @@liamaclellan3024 rowed around in big circles to see how the waves affected the boat it was scary and tiring but if I’d capsized I was only a short swim to shore Without The waves I could walk it

    • @the-naked-sailor
      @the-naked-sailor Před 2 měsíci

      Lambertodg..., I'm the same. I think you need to know how a boat handles in rough weather. By avoiding it, you're only asking for trouble.
      Like you, I was on a lake and close to show. Unlike you though, I was in a modified kayak (converted into a trimaran) that was only 7ft and used 200um builders plastic as my sail.

  • @yahuchanon37
    @yahuchanon37 Před 7 měsíci +31

    Strong winds and the north sea showed me my limitations in a matter of seconds- took me 13 hours to battle out of it again. This can be a life saving video, thank you for making it!👍

  • @danielgregg2530
    @danielgregg2530 Před 8 měsíci +11

    Lot of nice things to say about this video. Besides, it is a relief to actually see an internet video (this may be the first I have seen) done by somebody who speaks the language, almost always using proper terminology. CZcams is just swamped with self-styled cruising experts who don't even know what a "deck" is. It never ceases to amaze and even to depress me to see such persons who know less about how to talk about a boat than I did when I was 10 years old.

  • @kevinlytle6215
    @kevinlytle6215 Před 10 měsíci +88

    I have seen a few instructional videos covering this topic but none made things as clear. You covered many of the fearful topics in one logical flow that just makes sense!

  • @carlisle
    @carlisle Před 10 měsíci +42

    Assent was owned by Willie Ker well before the 79 Fastnet. It was his son Alan who skippered the boat during that race. Assent was the first keel boat I ever sailed on - probably around 1976 - having learned to sail on the same small reservoir where my family met and became friends with Willie. What a legend... Assent is looking good! The last time I saw her was in Victoria BC where I met Willie after he had returned from the Bering Sea; she was looking a little rough!

    • @pcka12
      @pcka12 Před 10 měsíci +6

      I used to race kayaks with Alan, happy memories!

  • @deewight9040
    @deewight9040 Před 7 měsíci +2

    Excellent video. I've been sailing for 50 years, the last 20 soloing a 57 foot, cold molded, center cockpit cutter designed by Henry Scheel. Every couple of years I would take my boat out in big seas and high winds in the middle of the night, hank on my storm sail, fully reef the main and hove to. I would also lock the rudder and try to steer using a 48" drogue on two winches. I am amazed at the people who I have met that have been caught in bad weather with full sails flying and didnt know how to reef properly and had no storm sails. they should all watch your video...

  • @ToddBryantsr
    @ToddBryantsr Před 5 měsíci +2

    Comms enthusiast here -- there is a inexpensive option called a Throat Mic which can connect to handheld radios. It also comes with a earpiece so that you can hear what's being said on channel. The idea is to keep your hands free so that you can handle the tiller and lines.

  • @GordonjSmith1
    @GordonjSmith1 Před 10 měsíci +23

    I really appreciate this. A practical example of preparation and dealing with conditions. I would also add that care of the morale and 'energy' of the crew is not often discussed however important that it certainly is. Excellent vlog.

  • @TheKetamineSquid
    @TheKetamineSquid Před 8 měsíci +4

    where i sail, the weather is often brutal. since getting trapped in a big storm (gusts to about 50kt) i've decided to make a few changes to my boat. those include leading everything back to the cockpit that i can, and a proper enclosed wheelhouse.
    great video - learnt a lot and confirmed what i thought i knew.

  • @grahamlamond3179
    @grahamlamond3179 Před 10 měsíci +17

    Excellent video. Might have been worth mentioning to have a good check over the boat once back in harbour to ensure nothing has chafed, or started to come undone or anything else which might catch you out next time you go to sea. If still at sea, then check as much as you can when the weather has calmed down.

  • @user-Adam72
    @user-Adam72 Před 10 měsíci +89

    Having been crew in a heavy gale on several occassions I can definitely say that any time you have to go forward is a VERY dangerous situation, and even normally minor issues become life threatening. The bounce of the foredeck combined with everything being wet, cold, and slippery means that you need four hands for the boat (and wish you had prehensile toes).
    Getting prepared before the weather gets bad, and practicing (like this video suggests) are your best action plan. You can very quickly find yourself having to get onto
    a foredeck travelling up and down 6-8 ft every few seconds, while trying to untangle a line or worse, pulling in a headsail, with no footing.

    • @rob379lqz
      @rob379lqz Před 10 měsíci +3

      In 3 hours of sailing my 4 person Walmart blow-up dingy, the Florida Haulover bested me. 😢 Going to Target tommorrow to pick up a 5 person Pink Flamingo dingy and tender-unicorn dingy (as life-backup).

    • @rick262
      @rick262 Před 9 měsíci

      @@rob379lqz It's a wise man who learns from past experience and upgrades his equipment in preparation for future challenges.

    • @ChrisThompson-dh7mv
      @ChrisThompson-dh7mv Před 9 měsíci +4

      It''s a good idea to practice, but surprisingly it's not statistically very dangerous to go forward in heavy gales. In the '98 Hobart and '79 Fastnet, for example, no one was lost from the foredeck. In fact I think there's a study somewhere, perhaps from US Sailing, that shows that the mid-deck is the spot where most people are lost from, although that may be because racing bowmen and bowwomen are often chosen for good balance and practise at it. In the Sydney-Hobart race you're required to come past the starting boat before the start with your storm gear all set, to show that it's ready to go. It's a great idea because it means that you're ready with it when things get hairy.

    • @stefanomoretti3664
      @stefanomoretti3664 Před 8 měsíci +3

      and a prehensile tail ;-)

    • @wilyjetset
      @wilyjetset Před 7 měsíci

      @@rob379lqz you'll also need a transom extension (I think costco sell them) to get all four outboards onto the flamingo if you're tackling Haulover

  • @teeheeteeheeish
    @teeheeteeheeish Před 9 měsíci +5

    A couple weeks ago I went out, I didn't bother to check the forecast and it turns out there was a small craft advisory. It quickly turned to 25 knot winds and 40 knot gusts and I was out on my little 22 foot swing keel! Needless to say I quickly dropped sail and motored my butt back in and had a fun time trying to dock! Luckily my slipmate was out as well, so I had all the room I needed to fight the wind.

  • @jeffcharles5858
    @jeffcharles5858 Před 10 měsíci +28

    Outstanding!! Brilliantly done all round. Best heavy weather vid I have ever seen, kudos to the crew and Theo -. you hit every important detai ,and the after action review was spot on. Expect and prepare for the worst, then carry on and enjoy the very best! Your prep and attention to detail took this from a potential horrror show to a valuable and unforgettable but safe day at sea. Bravo!

  • @ianscott3180
    @ianscott3180 Před 10 měsíci +32

    Great video that brings back memories for me. I had a Contessa 26 for years a long time ago. A very wet, small and slow little boat. I am now in my seventies and have fonder memories of her than any other boat that I have owned. Many a tale was told in the King's Head in Lymington after a long trek back from France or Cowes 😀. Several times I have had to alter plans, run for shelter or ride it out. Keep up the good work guys and safe sailing everyone. Bon Voyage.

    • @michaelbrownlee9497
      @michaelbrownlee9497 Před 8 měsíci +1

      tiny inside, but a tough little boat. to be honest sailing on snall keelboats of that size is a lot of fun, and costs are low.

  • @TreDeuce-qw3kv
    @TreDeuce-qw3kv Před 4 měsíci +2

    And those conditions can occur just about anywhere and anytime. I once got caught in 35+ winds gusting to 50+ on the Columbia River Gorge in a blizzard in a 24-ft. Kent Ranger. My years of year round off-shore sailing off the Pacific coast prepared me for the event, but I never ever encountered as rough a conditions on the ocean as that time on the Columbia and with very little room to maneuver. to avoid running aground or collecting rock. And yes, the Columbia River can develop some good sized waves and turbulent waters.
    Still one of my most memorable sailing adventures shared with my young son and a friend who had never been on a sailboat before and became an avid sailor after much more time on my boat learning the ropes leading to his Captains license.
    Excellent post...👍👍

  • @bcdoak2525
    @bcdoak2525 Před 10 měsíci +8

    That is one of the best sailing videos I’ve ever watched. And I may have watched them all!

  • @zeilgenot
    @zeilgenot Před 10 měsíci +18

    Great and honest video, good and clear instructions and - yes - the Contessa is a very suitable and proper ‘little boat’ !
    Best, Harry

  • @ohnezuckerohnefett
    @ohnezuckerohnefett Před 10 měsíci +7

    I have the article here right beside me. I am so happy there is a video to this. One of the best articles I have read recently. Assent is a treasure

  • @allenjones7433
    @allenjones7433 Před 10 měsíci +25

    Interesting video. As a former yachtsman I have had my fair share of strong weather. My tactics in 40+ knots would be to heave-to. The Contessa shown would be ideal for this. By the way, I was in a major storm ( “pacific Storm” on CZcams) with winds in excess of 80Kns and a sea state with over 18 metre swells with breaking tops. Many yachts and a whole family lost. Not far from me was the designer of the Contessa David Sadler. We both sailed the same designed yacht a 10.5M Ganley Shadow. Steel. Both came through with minor damage. Handled this storm hove-to.

    • @coreyriddell4726
      @coreyriddell4726 Před 10 měsíci

      80knot Hove to doubt it. Eventually running under bare pole and putting some drag in the drink is the only option as Dacron shreds from bullet wind.

    • @allenjones7433
      @allenjones7433 Před 10 měsíci +5

      Not sure about your comment. I could point you to the relevant Adlard Coles publication that covered my storm experience and tactics. Lots of coverage in books etc. fully verifiable. I have over 45 years sailing in the Southern Ocean and between NZ and the Pacific Islands. I most certainly know about having bullet proof storm sails. Not too sure about your sail knowledge.

    • @allenjones7433
      @allenjones7433 Před 10 měsíci +1

      Nearly forgot. Quartermaster, the yacht that was lost with all crew was running under bare poles dragging a load of chain.

    • @alexandermenck6609
      @alexandermenck6609 Před 10 měsíci +1

      That was the Queen’s birthday storm. Congrats that you survived but there is a big part of sheer luck in it. As good as you may be prepared, as good as the yacht is your are sailing on, those where conditions in which you are in the hands of god. BTW running may work on a light displacement boat but a heavy cruiser will knock down sooner or later.

    • @allenjones7433
      @allenjones7433 Před 10 měsíci +6

      @@alexandermenck6609 My Ganley yacht was designed for the area I sailed in. Dennis (Designer) re-did calculations on steel thickness and its effect on waterline. He agreed with me that I could increase the deck and freeboard thickness by 1mm which would cost me a quarter inch of freeboard. included in his calc's was the addition of extra frames and deck beams. As a, then, volunteer marine radio operator I had over the years communicated with yachtsmen who had problems with issues like deck pumping etc due to lack of support. In the case of the lost yacht and family this was a Whiting 40 with a displacement of approx' ten tonnes. She was fibreglass. Your comment re heavy versus light displacement when running has validity. Fully equipped for a Pacific cruise "Quartermaster"would have clocked in at about 15-17 tonnes. Interestingly a similar design survived but was subject to some major wracking which caused seawater ingress into the accommodation due to port distortion. Quartermaster had one weakness in that she had enlarged ports which reduced the rigidity of the cabin top. Cause of sinking, who knows. She disappeared completely. only the liferaft was recovered. Thanks for your comment.

  • @michaelgeraghty3989
    @michaelgeraghty3989 Před 4 měsíci +2

    Great tips. Any blue water sailor can get caught in 40 knots or more. The first time it happened to me was in a Cat 1 hurricane. It would've great to have already had a little 40 knot experience under my belt. The good thing was that later when I was caught in 30 knots in coastal sailing it was actually fun.

  • @boathousejoed1126
    @boathousejoed1126 Před 10 měsíci +2

    Outstanding presentation! My personal mantra is "What if,What now,What next?"

  • @georgewashington7444
    @georgewashington7444 Před 10 měsíci +3

    Great info!
    My solo sailing heavy weather tactics (17’ 2000# sailboat)
    If it’s the way I’m going run with it bare poles until breaking waves and danger of Broach then deploy Jordan Series Drogue.
    If I need to fight a Leeshore storm jib/third reef heave-too possibly fore-reach if breaking waves deploy Sea anchor.
    Mostly though keep a eye on weather and try to avoid it. As a solo sailor you Must practice these things beforehand in milder conditions and have all the kinks worked out.

  • @PareAbas
    @PareAbas Před 10 měsíci +7

    A very clear and educational video. Thank you for having thought of making a video with the basics of navigation in bad weather. and Thanks also to all the technical and editorial team for doing.

  • @viewfromthehillswift6979
    @viewfromthehillswift6979 Před 8 měsíci +5

    Much depends on the design of the boat. I've sailed in 40 pts in a solid Bluewater boat and it was surprisingly easy. In my first boat -- modified fin keel, spade rudder, low displacement, it would have been terrifying.

  • @fredread9216
    @fredread9216 Před 10 měsíci +7

    This is a great idea and I have done this. First, I am a US Sailing instructor that taught a lot in San Francisco, bay and off shore. Well known for strong winds and seas as the norm. But when I bought an Alberg 35 that I was living aboard with my wife, we went up a canal for protection from a category 2 hurricane. After the worst had passed, sustained winds were 40-50. We decided to test the boat, well known for it’s good heavy weather attributes.
    We were sailing about 12 miles back to home port in the open part of Biscayne Bay. It was tougher than we thought. Part of the issue was the reduced visibility, due to rain. (That we didn’t expect, and this is before chart plotters and GPS). Navigation was pilotage and Ded Reconing. The boat handled the conditions well, with triple reefed main and storm Jib. Always good to practice heavy weather in at least semi controlled conditions as you, and we did.

    • @bobkirwan9877
      @bobkirwan9877 Před 10 měsíci +1

      Are they in a contessa 26

    • @fredread9216
      @fredread9216 Před 10 měsíci

      @@bobkirwan9877 Ah! Very nice boat.

    • @wjsweet
      @wjsweet Před 6 měsíci +1

      It's a Contessa 32.

  • @JeanLucRaoelina-nd4og
    @JeanLucRaoelina-nd4og Před 10 měsíci +1

    Thank you for your excellent reporting and incredible team effort in rough conditions.

  • @apackwestbound5946
    @apackwestbound5946 Před 8 měsíci

    Very informative, thank you for all the effort you all put into this production.

  • @kurtism9040
    @kurtism9040 Před 8 měsíci

    Fifty years a sailor but I really enjoyed this. A review that I will share again and again with crew and fellow lifelong sailor friends. Very thorough and easy to understand. Thank you.

  • @petersoakell6950
    @petersoakell6950 Před 7 měsíci

    Clear, concise and well presented. Thanks for knowledge. Subbed.

  • @jonwilmot5331
    @jonwilmot5331 Před 9 měsíci

    First class informative no nonsense video. Thanks.

  • @jimmyjoyce4697
    @jimmyjoyce4697 Před 9 měsíci +1

    That was exceedingly useful - so very practical. Thank you.

  • @marksmith296
    @marksmith296 Před 8 měsíci +1

    Awesome video. Never forget you can change course to be safe. Keep your knees bent everyone.

  • @Jolie_sailor
    @Jolie_sailor Před 10 měsíci +2

    Thank you for taking us for the ride. Great info.

  • @dajobra
    @dajobra Před 10 měsíci +2

    I followed a small channel crossing the atlantic in october and they hoisted the storm jib upside down, had it up for day's and never noticed till I asked in the comments. They never took it out of the bag before that storm.

  • @ciscodiablo
    @ciscodiablo Před 10 měsíci

    Excellent presentation. A must watch for novice and experienced sailors who have not been out in the rough for a while. Thank You.

  • @k6fgj
    @k6fgj Před 7 měsíci

    Absolutely fantastic program. Incredibly informative and the debrief at the end is really helpful and thought provoking. Thank you all so much 😃

  • @ro4317
    @ro4317 Před 10 měsíci +8

    Great instruction. This was helpful even for sailing a Pearson Ensign in heavy winds on a small lake. Clear and precise without a hint of condescension.

  • @davidotness6199
    @davidotness6199 Před 8 měsíci

    Nicely done. My interest was maintained throughout. Even after 60 + years at sea, I always pay attention to matters and materials new to me. And there are always just that and those. Cheers!

  • @martinrobinson9852
    @martinrobinson9852 Před 7 měsíci

    An excellent training video, with lots of expert content. I enjoyed it!

  • @kkklllaaa1234
    @kkklllaaa1234 Před 10 měsíci +3

    Thank you very much Theo and crew. Great video, I enjoyed every minute

  • @lokilokison4217
    @lokilokison4217 Před 8 měsíci

    What a fantastic video. Thank you!

  • @BrewsterMcBrewster
    @BrewsterMcBrewster Před 8 měsíci +2

    Crewing on a Hunter 33 in 1979 in a Cape Canaveral Triangle race with a new skipper in 30 knot winds was way more terrifying than what 40 knots in 2-3 foot seas as shown in this video. When seas were running 12-14 feet, the skipper rounds the first mark and shouts: "Haul up the chute!" We crewmembers looked at each other with our mouths hanging open... "Are you kidding?"; I whispered in his ear. He says "C'mon, let's go! We're gonna win this race!" So we obediently hauled up the kite and promptly got knocked down; mast parallel with the ocean. He says: "Okay, bring it down." Wanting to kiss up to my new skip I said: "Good call, Skip!" 🤣

  • @waterboy8999
    @waterboy8999 Před 10 měsíci +4

    Great video! I wasn't expecting to first part to be before you even get out on the water, which was brilliant. I learned a lot from this so thank you very much.

  • @JohannesNeumeier
    @JohannesNeumeier Před 10 měsíci +2

    SUPERB video, thank you for the effort, it was a very useful watch!

  • @samaipata4756
    @samaipata4756 Před 10 měsíci +14

    I‘m not a sailor, would have loved to be though! As a former flight instructor I love the fact that you show, what it means if you get yourself in trouble and show in detail everything required to get yourself out of it! Very well done video and I believe some of your viewers will at one point in time highly appreciate what he/she learned out of it!👍

    • @brownnoise357
      @brownnoise357 Před 10 měsíci +1

      Having been stuck in a Force 10 plus for over 3 days in the Bay of Biscay, and so Seasick I was no use to man or beast. Best advice is don’t go there, and don’t go out in Force 6 winds either, or they can turn into Force 10 plus in the blink of an eye like happened to us. Frankly, this lot set a very bad example by even going out in Force 7 to Force 8 Winds, given Force 6 has a,ways been correctly considered a Yacht Gale, and they should be bloody well ashamed of themselves. 😡

    • @bcdoak2525
      @bcdoak2525 Před 10 měsíci +6

      Lighten up @brown noise.

    • @johngower4164
      @johngower4164 Před 10 měsíci +5

      @@brownnoise357 Really? The entire point of this was to explain professionally some of the issues in heavy weather sailing and to demonstrate that through prior planning and preparation it is eminently possible to sail, heave to and survive. It was clear to most (though clearly not all!) why they did this and anyone who actually sails will benefit. There's also no such thing as a "Yacht Gale"

    • @brownnoise357
      @brownnoise357 Před 10 měsíci

      @@johngower4164 If you have never even heard the Term Yacht Gale applied to Beufort Scale Force 6 conditions, then frankly you know sweet FA about Sailing. You could do yourself a huge Favour by printing out Copies of the Complete Beaufort Scale, and make sure to have several copies on you, should you ever set foot on a Sailboat. 😡

    • @jdbothma9339
      @jdbothma9339 Před 10 měsíci

      It's never too late to learn!

  • @windonwater3895
    @windonwater3895 Před 10 měsíci +2

    Great video - Thanks! Things on board are never perfect so it brought realism to the video to point out the (very few) deficiencies like the storm jib tack line. I liked the section on heaving to since that is one of my challenges.

  • @gurglejug627
    @gurglejug627 Před 8 měsíci

    Nice flow to that video - to the point and holds the attention - something worth its weight in gold when instructing: Thanks so much.

  • @viewfromthehillswift6979
    @viewfromthehillswift6979 Před 4 měsíci +1

    I sailed in sustained 40 kt wind with reefed main, and a staysail (cutter rig), no jib. Boat was steady. Cabo Rico 38.

  • @christopherkohel8555
    @christopherkohel8555 Před 10 měsíci +1

    BRAVO! Outstanding!
    Thank you!!

  • @OutnBacker
    @OutnBacker Před 10 měsíci +3

    A few years ago, I sold my Montgomery 17 as my age and physical abilities are noe catching up to me. One time, I got th eidea of sailing on Port Gardner Bay here in Puget Sound in similar conditions in november. Not 40 knots, but around 32-37 knots, waves breaking at 6-8 feet.
    I was never so scared in my life, until I realized the little Monty was thriving in it. Third reef in, headsail furled to 50%. I know, a furler isn't for storms, but on a small craft, the strength to resisitance ratio is greatly increased, especially on a Montgomery, which are over-built in every way imaginable. A bigger boat might have had trouble with that.
    Once I saw that the boat simply would not heel further than 18 degrees, my only problem was that the waves were so big that the boat was like a rocking horse, and my body was being beaten into a pulp from maintaining a basic human posture.
    It took a week for all the muscle and strain to go away. I sure love those old Montgomery's. IMO, Lyle Hess's masterpiece, despite all the other great boats he designed.

    • @georgewashington7444
      @georgewashington7444 Před 10 měsíci +2

      I love it! I own a 2005 Montgomery 17 and have sailed it on Erie with much bigger plans for the future.
      I’m sure you know about Little Breeze Cal-Hawaii and Strawanza Cal-New Zealand!

    • @OutnBacker
      @OutnBacker Před 10 měsíci +1

      @@georgewashington7444 Yes. I had planned on modifying my first M-17 (1974) to make the companionway water tight, but never did. I wanted to circumnavigate Vancouver Island and sail to Alaska in it. Injuries and having a job that was really a sea anchor kept me from it. Now, those are just the dreams of an old man.

  • @idaho_girl
    @idaho_girl Před 10 měsíci +1

    That last point about the touch screens not working so well is super interesting.

  • @ronagoodwell2709
    @ronagoodwell2709 Před 10 měsíci +3

    What a great video! Packed with amazing detail. And I can't say enough about that Contessa 32--she's a gem! and a good match with the crew. May have to watch this again.

  • @timallen6025
    @timallen6025 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Well covered ! We can all bang on about the storms we got through and lucked out. But it is the lessons learnt and reapplied that count….Everything just takes three times as long to do and is three times harder-And MUST be done with exquisite care. As you so so rightly do, have it all ready beforehand and give the crew a warm , hydrated,fed , safe and easy time of it conserving energy and alertness…The trisail and the storm jib /staysail really need to be set up and ‘ ready to go’..

  • @SailingWithDave
    @SailingWithDave Před 10 měsíci +8

    Really enjoyed this video. Full of information and learned a few things! Also shows how sea worthy a yacht can be. I know the Contessa's are pretty good boats but there's nothing wrong with sailing in some high winds if you have the stomach for it. I personally love the idea of heavy weather and trying to master my skills in higher winds. Many thanks!

  • @atakd
    @atakd Před 10 měsíci +2

    That was a very comprehensive video, thanks.

  • @joeltatham5673
    @joeltatham5673 Před 10 měsíci

    This is a really helpful video, thanks for this series!

  • @loulabag
    @loulabag Před 9 měsíci

    Great Video with lots of good Information . Thanks.

  • @donotwantahandle1111
    @donotwantahandle1111 Před 10 měsíci

    A great detailed video on how to cope with heavy weather.

  • @FrankEhrsam
    @FrankEhrsam Před 10 měsíci

    outstanding peace of sailing video - thanks!

  • @AORD72
    @AORD72 Před 3 měsíci

    Having done a bit or trailer sailor racing I can recommend ensuring that you have enough floatation within your yacht to prevent it from sinking. We had the stern full of polystyrene which prevented our yacht from going to the bottom after our hull filled with water.

  • @skippyone3085
    @skippyone3085 Před 10 měsíci +2

    Excellent video really clear and not one wasted word..

  • @Gab3A
    @Gab3A Před 7 měsíci

    Finally 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
    This is sailing and this is what people need to know. ❤

  • @viggosimonsen
    @viggosimonsen Před 10 měsíci

    Brilliant episode. Very informative. Thanks

  • @Crowscratch_HauntedLibrary
    @Crowscratch_HauntedLibrary Před 10 měsíci +1

    Amazingly informative and useful info. Thank you!

  • @mathew5315.1
    @mathew5315.1 Před 10 měsíci +2

    Well done Theo for that final piece to camera, you looked knackered :-)

  • @mikedevlin2048
    @mikedevlin2048 Před 10 měsíci +8

    Excellent Video and great explanation… 👌🏻
    I think the only thing I would add would be an explanation of how important communication is before, during and after any really heavy weather. The crew should know what they can expect and what is expected of them, finally a good debrief once conditions allow and everyone has recovered from the exertion and stress of the situation, is invaluable.
    It should also be noted that many “modern designs” are not as well suited to sailing in heavy weather as a Contessa or many other more traditional designs … the design and layout of everything from the hull shape, interior and deck / rigging are often focused more on space and comfort in harbour than at sea…

    • @scottholman3982
      @scottholman3982 Před 10 měsíci +1

      many people don't consider sea worthiness to be big selling factor.

  • @jjrevelry7913
    @jjrevelry7913 Před 10 měsíci

    This was excellent - more please!

  • @lemaquereaubleu
    @lemaquereaubleu Před 9 měsíci

    Really nice and complete video from a passionnate... many thanks for the effort!

  • @oldshipmatesadventures
    @oldshipmatesadventures Před 2 měsíci

    Fantastic content, thanks for sharing!

  • @matiashogden1240
    @matiashogden1240 Před 7 měsíci +1

    My first meet with sailing was a week of trying to sail around a hurricane as crew on a three masted barque. Winds up to 80kn. Helm was held on hard to port for about 4 days straight.
    I imagine life on a smaller vessel is significantly worse, even though we had a roll of 50 degrees at the worst

  • @gunnarguggs2725
    @gunnarguggs2725 Před 5 měsíci

    Thanks for the excellent content. Lots of thought and work here, well done.

  • @captainchristianguy3307
    @captainchristianguy3307 Před 5 měsíci

    This was really cool! This is what sailing is really about. If you can make it through this type of weather you can sail through anything. I saw a bunch of people in the comments of a different video of a guy in a smaller sailboat encountering rough seas and they kept saying things like "that boat is too small for the ocean" and "don't ever take a lake boat in the ocean" if you know what you're doing there's no difference between a lake boat and an ocean boat.

  • @franckbrunie4759
    @franckbrunie4759 Před měsícem

    Great video, great comments as well. Thank You. Another good complement would be how to cope/best compromise when no storm jib on board.

  • @HikerBikerMoter
    @HikerBikerMoter Před 8 měsíci

    what a brilliantly informative video done in an interesting way, theory & practice combined by a real pro - thank you, master 🙏 👍

  • @kennethwikert2841
    @kennethwikert2841 Před 10 měsíci

    What a great tutorial! Thank you!

  • @martinlang9615
    @martinlang9615 Před 9 měsíci +1

    I remember 40 years ago on the helm of a 46 foot masthead sloop built out of hi-tensile steel.
    Going hard to windward 40 knots, gusting to 50.
    The spray stings a fair bit at those speeds.
    Doing about 8-9 knots.
    This yacht was rock solid and unfortunately another time took severe abuse when a rookie sail trimmer on the brace was ordered to “ease the brace” and he had no idea of the forces involved and WHAM the spinnaker pole smashed into the forestay.
    The vibration thoughout the rig was horrendous.
    The rod rigging never let go - ever.
    Another time in a storm we pulled down all sails and went with the wind, I think we were doing 2 knots. I remember it well as the wind really forced you into the helm.

  • @fezig83
    @fezig83 Před měsícem

    Great boat, great crew, great sail!
    WOW!

  • @Carlos_Verhaak80
    @Carlos_Verhaak80 Před 6 měsíci

    Gorgeous! I wouldn't dare going out in such conditions, but man how I enjoyed watching you!

  • @colbr6733
    @colbr6733 Před 10 měsíci +13

    A really excellent presentation of this aspect of sailing, particularly in the conditions. Ranking the Contessa 32 very highly as a seagoing yacht. It's interesting to me that modern yacht design and marine technology still isn't fully geared up for rough weather sailing. Only if an owner is specifically interested will it get the proper attention it requires.

    • @vibratingstring
      @vibratingstring Před 10 měsíci +5

      It's a world of fair weather sailors now, and broad amateur ocean racing is close to dead. It is nothing like it was in decades past.

    • @stefanomoretti3664
      @stefanomoretti3664 Před 8 měsíci +2

      and still...some boats are just not designed to take really bad weather. Mostly heavily overcanvassed , with huge mans, genoas on roller furling and no second stay for a heavy staysail

  • @leigholding1397
    @leigholding1397 Před 2 měsíci +1

    I was out in cyclone Bola in 89 .... 180k winds . Keel came out of water. Boat went sideways... the creast of the waves were getting cut off by the scrawls.... hardly moving forward because the waves were huge. Crazy times.

  • @louchanson9248
    @louchanson9248 Před 7 měsíci

    Excellent rough weather video !! well rounded from the start to final debrief 👌

  • @BoulderMTBR
    @BoulderMTBR Před 10 měsíci +2

    Very well done.

  • @coreyriddell4726
    @coreyriddell4726 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Gotta say as a "solo" sailor on a 25' sloop my extra hands is Wayne the wind vane. He sits there doing his thing no complaints, bucketing rain, blowing a gale, holding course. Meanwhile I'm bruised, dry and enjoying CZcams.
    On that note, racing along in +45knot gust solidifies sailors knowledge and skill.

  • @martinc6987
    @martinc6987 Před 3 měsíci

    thanks for sharing,that was very useful information.

  • @Korsaro1
    @Korsaro1 Před 10 měsíci

    Thank you . That is sailing !

  • @michaelj4009
    @michaelj4009 Před 9 měsíci

    Thank you for this

  • @chuck571
    @chuck571 Před 10 měsíci

    Thanks so much!! I learned a lot.

  • @Sailsnhorizons
    @Sailsnhorizons Před 10 měsíci +1

    Good show! The crew performed well....better than a touch screen!

  • @gunterhausleitner9144
    @gunterhausleitner9144 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Thanks for this good video. I have learned something was new for me.

  • @stephenleigh2010
    @stephenleigh2010 Před 2 měsíci

    What a great instructional video, Thank You. So much makes more sense now than before.
    As a very novice sailor the information and advise you provide here is invaluable.⛵👍

  • @theyard6958
    @theyard6958 Před 2 měsíci

    Very informative. Thank you as a new sailor, I find this info to be very helpful.

  • @davidthompson5710
    @davidthompson5710 Před 10 měsíci +2

    Going out in 35+ knots, on purpose, can be a lot of fun. Provided you are ready for it anyhow.

  • @bybeka1
    @bybeka1 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Superb, thanks for the comprehensive explanation with direct experience and prior briefing. I sail solo under rough conditions from time to time just to find the flaws of the boat, its setup (below and above deck) and my own decisions and skills. And😮I find many new every time I do it. Always worth, but later 3 days exhausted, it's extremely demanding. 😅

  • @stuartcrane9409
    @stuartcrane9409 Před 10 měsíci +4

    I’m sure you will agree to raise the storm jib without freeing the sheets was stupid! Otherwise good advice for amateur weekend sailors. Also a contessa is a proven tough weather yacht, if you had a lighter or high performance yacht it would have been a tougher job to manage.

  • @mikefriend7570
    @mikefriend7570 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Great video. As older sailors, my partner and I have rigged everything on our H28 to drop and raise the sails from the cockpit. This includes 2 reefing points and a furling gib. This winter I’m going to add lazy jacks so that if necessary we can drop the mainsail entirely. But as a result of watching your video and listening to the observations you make, I will also move some more important safety items closer to the hatch for availability

  • @kermitthefrog6363
    @kermitthefrog6363 Před 10 měsíci

    Thanks for the great video!

  • @mjanulis3603
    @mjanulis3603 Před 9 měsíci

    Really super instructional session. Please consider other heavy weather instruction. Thanks!

  • @christymick141
    @christymick141 Před 10 měsíci +8

    Excellent excellent explanation and of the reasoning and reality of inclement weather. 👏
    You all nailed it how it happens.
    Anyone wanting to head offshore should watch this as a basic.
    Fair winds from NZ

  • @PGW1970
    @PGW1970 Před 10 měsíci

    Excellent video, I enjoyed very much and learned things.