Beaten by an Atlantic Storm! Contessa 26 up to the job?

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 ก.ย. 2024
  • Contessa 26 sailing home encounters a storm in the Atlantic.. what to do next?
    Green Tambourine, on her way home to Cardiff from the Jester Azores Challenge 24 , encounters a storm in the ocean. What's the best and safest thing to do?
    As we sail north from Terceira I notice the early signs of bad weather, the situation slowly deteriorates until a decision has to be made 200 miles out..
    What would you have done? Let me know below..
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ความคิดเห็น • 220

  • @markfarnell183
    @markfarnell183 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +20

    I enjoyed the tell it like it is format. No sugar coating, no screaming headlines, just life at sea

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Thanks Mark, i'ts just an old acchool video diary really!

    • @thomasescape3002
      @thomasescape3002 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      Indeed, but I have all that much more respect for your nautical performance. Two years ago I sailed from A Caruna directly to Sao Miguel, even in heavy weather. Even with my boat, that was a challenging task. So, hats off to you!

  • @user-wz2qe2pv6r
    @user-wz2qe2pv6r 20 ชั่วโมงที่ผ่านมา +1

    U sir are what I call a real old school sailor. CO 26, basic everything, yet not afraid of the big journeys. Salute!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 ชั่วโมงที่ผ่านมา

      @@user-wz2qe2pv6r it's true, no fridge, no satellite phone etc etc..

  • @jayknight850
    @jayknight850 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +30

    Heave too, one of the absolute best storm strategies ever. Sat hove too for 3 days in the Gulf of Mexico, quite comfortable, certainly better than the alternative!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      Yes, it's incredible how it all changes once the boat stops moving, and so easy to do..

    • @D-B-Cooper
      @D-B-Cooper 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Depends on the boat, mine was better running on storm sail with small drogue. Drogue from bow was too violent and hove too was on beam.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

      @@D-B-Cooper I wouldnt have a drogue from the bow, Jordan series drogue from the stern is the best survival tactic I know of..

  • @shawnlund
    @shawnlund 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +17

    I loved this video. I have spent most of my life working in aviation and what makes a good pilot is the ability to make the right decision even when it’s not necessarily the easiest one. From what I can see being the Captain of a boat seems to be identical. I would love to learn how to sail one day and let the wind blow me into all sorts of adventures. Thanks for sharing, this is one of my favorite channels on TH-cam. You are doing a fantastic job.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      That's exactly it, making the right decision.. not made easier by being alone and having nobody to discuss the situation with.. I hope you do go filling and have a great time 🙂

  • @jimbennett5391
    @jimbennett5391 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +11

    Real small boat sailing. Good to see how you are coping with all the stress of navigation, weather and day to day issues, and staying cheerful.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      @@jimbennett5391 yes you gotta laugh to stay sane!

  • @EdHounsell
    @EdHounsell 3 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I knew the Glanvilles who owned Green Tambourine when she was in Devon. Well done getting to the Azores in her. When I went in my Contessa 26 some years ago I would heave to and relax while I cooked a meal. Heaving to was not so good in really big seas as the Contessa lies beam on to the seas. I found the best solution was to sheet a storm jib hard amidships which kept her pointing downwind on one tack and making about 1 knot while I retired down below. My electric self steering packed up soon after I left Horta and I sailed the whole way back with a lashed tiller and adjusted the sails to balance the boat. The Contessa 26 is indeed a remarkable boat and I am very attached to mine.(Contessa Anna Louise)

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  วันที่ผ่านมา

      Good to hear your experiences with your CO26.. for me, electric tiller pilots are purely for getting stuff done as you motor into port, I've always found them perfectly unreliable and greedy on juic, and incapable of dealing wirth any sort of seway.. wind vane is simple and reliable. Good work on sailing with balanced sails, that must have been interesting. I didn't meet the Granvilles, as he was unwell and his daughter handled the sale.

  • @robp4037
    @robp4037 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +8

    a pleasure and an education, as ever. thanks for your honesty and good company in sharing your decision making and rationale to improve the situation and future options, and the emotional toll and toils... 🙂

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      Thank you, it's harder when one is alone and there is nobody to chew over the options with!

  • @HP-qj4gz
    @HP-qj4gz 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

    Thank you for another interesting video. Very stoic and excellent seamanship. What a fine boat the C26 is!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      A fine boat indeed, I was very pleased to be on such a seaworthy vessel. It always amazes me how small she is when I get off and see her from a pontoon

  • @landprojects
    @landprojects 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Well done, excellent video. The highs and lows of sailing. Hove to the best alternative in really heavy weather for sure. 👍

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Yeah, up to a certain point where one has to deploy the series drogue

  • @windfall35
    @windfall35 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Greatly enjoyed watching a resourceful and pragmatic sailor who tackles the sea as it comes and isn't whinging at tough choices. Well played sir!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thank you John!

  • @daverolstone5669
    @daverolstone5669 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Terrific story. you push the boat and yourself hard Jim. You will have some interesting meals out of those tins!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Haha yes the roulette wheel of the unmarked tins! Actually I managed to mark them with a Sharpie before the labels fell off altogether..

  • @joeltatham5673
    @joeltatham5673 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    A Good voyage! Good decision making as well, you and the boat are both safely in port. You are the one there and only you understand the conditions, despite what the armchair sailors out there might think. 👌. Thanks for taking us along.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@joeltatham5673 agreed, although the conditions at the time were not life threatening it was pretty uncomfortable and it didn't seem wise to keep pushing towards the centre of the storm, there's no need to wait till the mast is gone before deciding on a wiser tactic!

  • @zero_to_sailor
    @zero_to_sailor 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Thank you for sharing your experience! Great to see some real sailing!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks, I'm glad you liked it😊

  • @MikeSantis
    @MikeSantis 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +9

    Nice watching a small boat sailing big oceans. And it takes its man to take a decision and run 200 miles back. Well done. You did what you felt it was best for you and that is important. Subscribed

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Thanks for the subscription Mike :)

  • @frankmerkle2500
    @frankmerkle2500 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +6

    Thank you, just shared the link in our sailing forum. Your decision to turn back was probably a good one while it was still possible. Good seamanship!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      I've agonised over whether it was the right decision ever since! I'm still not sure, however it was the safest thing to do..

    • @ticklefish4898
      @ticklefish4898 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@rolty1 please don’t agonize. I say you made the right decision. You are to be congratulated for making the difficult decision, alone, to turn back. The ‘easy’ decision would be to not make a decision and keep going hoping for the best with disastrous consequences.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@ticklefish4898 Thanks!

    • @chrisk1732
      @chrisk1732 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      If in any Doubt about decision then there no Doubt at all don’t proceed !!!?

  • @vickipearce9332
    @vickipearce9332 8 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Happy to have "found" you! Looking forward to doing some "backward" viewing. Thanks for sharing.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  7 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks Vicki! I hope you enjoy the channel 😃

  • @lorrainefarrell6470
    @lorrainefarrell6470 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Clearly I’m not a sailor Jim but your videos are so interesting…and a tad scary, but what a fabulous boat ☺️😬 love watching. Glad you got back all in one piece and hope you enjoyed your get together. Sorry we missed it 🎸🎶🎶 xx

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@lorrainefarrell6470 thanks Lorraine, the boat is great if a little tiny, but she is easy to handle.. hope to see you somewhere soon!

  • @denise2169
    @denise2169 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I'm glad you are safe!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  วันที่ผ่านมา

      I am, thank you Denise!

  • @FranklinGray
    @FranklinGray 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +5

    There is another way to heave-to that I like to use. Instead of tacking, you turn downwind and blanket the headsail with the main causing it to flutter. Then change sheets to pull the headsail to the other side, pull tight, then turn back up into the wind. When ready to continue on, just let the sheet out and pull in the other and off you go on the same tack as before. I like this because if you have any forward drift like most boats do, it will be in the direction you want to go.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I like that, I shall try it, thanks!

    • @gringoanon4550
      @gringoanon4550 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Why not just take everything down and throw out a sea anchor, and go and make a cuppa, and get some sleep?

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@gringoanon4550 Good question: sometimes its best to move away from an approaching storm centre....

  • @Seacracker1
    @Seacracker1 6 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Great Film❤

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  6 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I'm glad you enjoyed it 😊

  • @billywhizz6483
    @billywhizz6483 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    Wow, fantastic footage and great seamanship (in true Jester fashion). It did look a bit grim for a while there!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Yes, it was, lucky me having such a tough little boat..

  • @samsails9820
    @samsails9820 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Good effort Jim, an uncomfortable bit of sailing. Good to see you and GT back safe and sound 👌

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Thank you Sam, yes, we made it OK on the next attempt, video of that in preparation..

    • @thecockneykayaker2239
      @thecockneykayaker2239 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Not being a sailor or having any sailing knowledge, I watched this video with sweaty palms mesmerised by how the boat stays upright and how your not sick 😂 incredible. Can’t wait for the next one

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@thecockneykayaker2239 If I'm going to get seasick, it's generally on the first day after a long layoff, as in this recent video:
      th-cam.com/video/lSr1zCX-8Qc/w-d-xo.html
      The next one is in preparation now!

  • @Nick-kn2os
    @Nick-kn2os 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Brilliant sailing Jim and I've just realised it was Sally your other half keeping the Jester 2024 site updated.....I'm a little disappointed that you never got your guitar out throughout the journey seeing your part of the Mice duo 😀....You both seem to be so happy always, good luck to the both of you ....... Regards Nick

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@Nick-kn2os hi Nick, the guitar does come out very regularly, but when the boat is like a washing machine it isn't safe or possible.. I've never thought it appropriate to put myself nicking the guitar into a sailing video, so you think I should? I played it a lot on the final return trip, yet to come, which was very slow and calm!

  • @stevieb5008
    @stevieb5008 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Great videos! Thank you for sharing your adventures

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      My pleasure!

  • @chrishamilton2527
    @chrishamilton2527 ชั่วโมงที่ผ่านมา

    A good drogue makes a world of difference - I use a Jordan series drogue when in severe conditions …… especially when in need of rest. Little C26’s are great craft.

  • @sumobear2031
    @sumobear2031 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

    Always wise to turn around opposed to foolishly continue if your in any doubt.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      That was the logic that made me decide on the end..

  • @bluemaxx2006
    @bluemaxx2006 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Fantastic video. Thanks for allowing a land bound arm chair sailor a sight of true sea faring.
    Subscribed and am anxious to see more of your content.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Thanks for the subscription, there will be more soon, the successful trip home in a few episodes is coming next!

  • @user-hv8ir2ef6r
    @user-hv8ir2ef6r 10 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Trying to cross the Atlantic in a 26ft yacht, you're a braver man than I gungadin!
    I once sailed a 25ft yacht for a day in relative protected waters, the wind increased to 20 knots and it got extremely uncomfortable very fast indeed.
    I haven't sailed on a yacht under 40ft since hahaha, and doubt I ever will.
    Good luck to you! Not my cup of tea! 🍻

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  10 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@user-hv8ir2ef6r yeah I know what you mean.. The upside is a small boat is easy to handle and cheap to run!

    • @user-hv8ir2ef6r
      @user-hv8ir2ef6r 10 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@rolty1 Yes thats very true! Hahaha
      Still, you're a brave man in my books!

  • @Anabsurdsuggestion
    @Anabsurdsuggestion 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Was a tremendous video diary account of small boat versus big weather. Serious bravery on show here. I wish you every success. Subscribed.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@Anabsurdsuggestion thank you, I really appreciate that!

    • @Anabsurdsuggestion
      @Anabsurdsuggestion 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@rolty1 you have guts, talent and skills - a rare combination these days. I look forward to following your adventures.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@Anabsurdsuggestion Thank you! Next chapter coming up before long..

  • @88rollins
    @88rollins 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Smart decision and well played. 👍

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  12 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thank you 😊

  • @rickyboy..andcaptinjack2532
    @rickyboy..andcaptinjack2532 8 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Brilliant seaman ship..love watching your adventures..i sail my self but haven't dont ang long passages for a couple of years..but still sail locally when i can ..your videos are makes me feel at sea again..fairwinds and following seas captain

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  8 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks Ricky, the sea is a wonderful place to be

  • @triggerfish999
    @triggerfish999 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    A great 'warts and all' vid about sailing. I think you've successfully put me off trying blue water sailing.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Oh dear, it's not always like that!

  • @nordseegler
    @nordseegler 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Well done (from Swantje, an Emka 29 sailing at the German Bight)

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@nordseegler thank you!

  • @sannebast
    @sannebast 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I enjoyed your video. All the things that come with boat live. Its not easy. You did really well. Keep going.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@sannebast thank you very much

  • @B_Ruphe
    @B_Ruphe 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Always remembered from my children's abridged edition of RKJ's circumnavigation on Suhaili that he varnished his larder of tins (with labelling of course) before setting off from Falmouth. Thanks for the interestnig episode.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      This is clearly a good idea and will be on my list of pre crossing jobs, thank you

  • @netrhyda8761
    @netrhyda8761 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Very nice! (of course it wasn't me out on the waves, it was You.....) The 26 Contessa is a very seaworthy little ship, I do know that because I owned a 26 Folkboat for a few years....A very tough vessel. She liked to heel a lot but then stiffened significantly. You did the right thing, veering off. Soon you can continue your trek home...;) Take care!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes, she's proven to be a very tough little boat, staying together despite crashing of the waves.. there were times when I took the floorboards up to make sure the hull wasn't cracking..

    • @kentgreenough75
      @kentgreenough75 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I have found the boat is usually the last thing to fail. Fiberglass is much tougher than most people. 😊

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@kentgreenough75 Evidently this is true, my inspection under the floor after the most resounding and sickening crashes revealed no problem..

  • @sailingcorribeemwera
    @sailingcorribeemwera 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Great video, real and pragmatic! It would've been tough sorting out all that on the go, looking forward to hearing about the second attempt

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I'm working on that now so keep an eye out for it soon 🙂

  • @rimasmeleshyus9486
    @rimasmeleshyus9486 7 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Congratulations, great sailor ⛵️ Cantesa 26 is better ,then a bigger sailboats .Solo is the best sailing, by myself always solo.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  7 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes, very hard to find crew that one can get on with for a long time, I'm lucky to know one or two...

  • @user-uf1cm3to7m
    @user-uf1cm3to7m 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    A cozy little boat, very interesting life, may God richly bless you friend 🙏🌅🍁

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thank you very much!

  • @beorbeorian150
    @beorbeorian150 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Seems the Contessa 26 is a very seaworthy and safe boat. That plus sailing with caution and conservative choices is a great combination to sail another day in comfort.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yeah, Ive grown out of being a daft hero!

  • @kentgreenough75
    @kentgreenough75 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Hi Rotty, new to the channel, but since you asked, what would I do, I would probably just heave to, and wait it out. I say this having numerous crossings of the Pacific and one Atlantic crossing, along with single handling the Med in a 28 foot boat, with no motor. If there are no real problems with the boat, bobbing about for even a couple of days is better than adding 400 miles to the trip. Also, if the storm worsened I don’t want to be near any shore. Wet and cold trumps a rocky shore any day. Cheers.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I think you're very probably correct, that's what I will do next time...

  • @michaelhamilton5571
    @michaelhamilton5571 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Great vid, dip your cans in shellac, wrksgreat.😅

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  12 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Good idea!

  • @ianabbott751
    @ianabbott751 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Ouch Jim. That looked really hard. Some great decision making under pressure. I hope your second attempt to get back was a bit easier.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Hi Ian, yes it was, the experience was quite the opposite and it took 3 weeks! I see you got back PDQ but it looks like you had some lovely weather too?

    • @ianabbott751
      @ianabbott751 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      14 days 1400 miles Praia to Dover. I had a good crew and weather information and burned 40 litres of diesel motoring across calms so a combination of good weather and grunt. 6 hours bare poles so some interesting stuff as well.
      Very glad your second attempt was better I look forward to the video.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@ianabbott751 Wow, an excellent sail, well done Ian!

    • @ianabbott751
      @ianabbott751 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      ​@@rolty1 thanks it was very enjoyable. And well done to you too. Calm can be very frustrating.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@ianabbott751 Oh yes... very fortunate I had a guitar with me!

  • @maesy6730
    @maesy6730 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    It must have been the right decision as you're here to tell the tale.😁

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      That's true of course, I often wonder if it actually would have been much worse if I'd carried on..

  • @Scoutforlife
    @Scoutforlife 9 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Great Video.!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  9 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @Splash0921
    @Splash0921 9 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Thanks for keeping it real.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  9 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thank you!

  • @stuartsutherland7664
    @stuartsutherland7664 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Exciting stuff!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thank you Stuart

  • @eagerv
    @eagerv 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Only found you recently, really enjoying your channel. Thank you.
    My other favourite channel is Alan on ' Rover's Adventure'. Your Contessa 26 is large by comparison. 🙂
    Very best wishes, stay safe. Nigel from Ireland.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Hi Nigel, I'm glad you're enjoying the channel! My wind vane gear is based on Alan Mulholland's design, works great and not expensive or difficult to make!

    • @eagerv
      @eagerv 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@rolty1 Bumped into Alan last week here in Ireland. Nice guy and a hell of a genius.😁

    • @markthomasson5077
      @markthomasson5077 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Of course WR 1 was a Contessa 26

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@markthomasson5077 Yew, thats right, modified her and made her rather ugly!

    • @markthomasson5077
      @markthomasson5077 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@rolty1 …eye of the beholder!

  • @jcfgh
    @jcfgh 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Well done old chap. I suppose you could have hove to until the storm blew through but i think i would have made the same decision as you. Best wishes from Plymouth. James

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes, I agree, next time that will be the strategy!

  • @timevans8223
    @timevans8223 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Hi Jim. We met you in Terceira after you arrived. Tim and Gayle on Wild Bird. We are now back in the UK. We had a good trip to Ireland. A nice fast 7 day passage but a couple of days of F7 conditions fortunately on the beam, mostly. Love your videos

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Hi Tim, good to hear from you, and good work on the super fast passage! My return trip ended up being very slow as you'll see from the next batch of videos!

  • @thomasescape3002
    @thomasescape3002 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    The Contessa 26 is also a very seaworthy, small ship. Naturally less agile with its long keel and therefore easier to take off course. Well done, although I would rather do without the Jordan with my Contest 38s ketch. With the mizzen, the jib also heavily reefed, the ship holds its course perfectly under full control of the Windpilot Pacific.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I think I'd rather be in your boat too! Bigger, faster, more comfortable..

  • @o4pureh2o
    @o4pureh2o 10 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Starlink has been a great tool for passage weather updates. You can switch from plan to plan instantly so you only need to pay for the at sea plan while your at sea and can get on the roaming plan should you wish around land. doesn't mean we never get caught out. Got caught in 10m seas and gusts over 50kts coming into NZ from Fiji last year. Amazing experience but quite tiring.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  10 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@o4pureh2o yeah starlink is quite tempting; to me it has 2 downsides, firstly of course it's quite expensive (to my mind) and secondly it removes one of the best parts of blue water sailing which is totally getting away from every day life and all the noise and hassle of humanity.. I rather like the solitude and the sheer contrast with the day to day existence on land

    • @o4pureh2o
      @o4pureh2o 8 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      ​@@rolty1 You're right on both counts. I sail the south Pacific. Around New Zealand and out to the islands. The Iridium has been a failure letting us down time and time again. Starlink has a roaming option (really for the campervan) which we're allowed to use in coastal areas both around NZ, Fiji and many other island groups. That is unlimited and very affordable. On passage we need to use the marine plan which you pay per gig. It's awesome for weather which uses very little data and the expense of mindless browsing is a great deterrent on passage. The other major safety advantage is being able to pull up google maps satellite photos of the many reef passes and anchorages as Navionics can less than perfect in remote places.
      Enjoy your sailing.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  8 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@o4pureh2o Thanks, that's certainly food for thought!

  • @billfromgermany
    @billfromgermany 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Excellent video. Most videos of heavy weather at sea don’t look like much, but some of your footage shows the reality of heavy weather in a small boat. The most frightening bits are when a wave hits the side of the boat like a hammer and you wonder whether the grp will hold. But providing the mast stays up, and you aren‘t caught by a heavy breaking wave you come through. The Contessa 26 is a marvellous boat and you are an excellent seaman. Might it have been advisable to have hove to earlier, and waited out the bad weather rather than turning back? Did you consider that and reject it?

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yeah, with hindsight and on further reflection I think it would have been better to heave to and wait it out...unfortunetly there is no rewind button in life, but next time.. we live and learn! Yes, wondering if the boat is going to break up with the heavy pounding is the most worrying part..

  • @bradleylaford1526
    @bradleylaford1526 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    I think a Contessa is perfect for Conditioning a Sailor. It's is difficult to manage due to it's Comparative weight. But I think a 26 Footer is perfect for a person interested in a larger vessel to train on awhile prior?
    Thanks for this new submission.
    Have you any information on predicting bad weather by looking at clouds & sky changes?

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes, the CO26 is a very tough boat and easy to handle, I would recommend! A good book on weather is written by Chris Tibbs and published by the RYA.. www.wob.com/en-gb/books/chris-tibbs/rya-weather-handbook/9781910017142?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_sq2BhCUARIsAIVqmQuqZFfEl-FkuFnGUIadP7ebzpMz_euauhRxUYETyQXMqhYWt-6eNZcaAiaoEALw_wcB#GOR009581674

  • @davidalexander-watts6630
    @davidalexander-watts6630 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Are you sharing this to inspire or to warn people? Probably a bit of both. It's certainly both interesting and instructive, thank you.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Good question.. possibly a little of both, as you say. The sea is a powerful force, it's probably better not to challenge it!

    • @davidalexander-watts6630
      @davidalexander-watts6630 17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@rolty1 out of interest, did you consider heaving-to for, say, a few hours to let the weather pass by - rather than returning to Horta?

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@davidalexander-watts6630 In hindsight that might hve been a good tactic, but at the time it seemed best to regroup and re supply...

  • @squallyheiferadventures
    @squallyheiferadventures 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I have been liking the contessa 26 if one pops up in my neck of the woods I will like to get it. Great sailing. New sub.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks so much for the sub and comment, it really helps! Good luck with finding your boat, where are you located?

    • @squallyheiferadventures
      @squallyheiferadventures 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@rolty1 Southern United States. I currently have a compac 23. It's nice but not an ocean crosser .

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@squallyheiferadventures Nice little boat and very strong!

  • @andrew-rw2ku
    @andrew-rw2ku 2 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Good content

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks Andrew

  • @xFD2x
    @xFD2x 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    4:20
    It's good you are wearing a life vest.
    But .... , once you are in the water and need it, who are you waiting for ?

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I use the life jacket as a harness to clip a line to, I don't really expect to survive if I go overboard..I do however carry a PLB in case a vessel does happen to be close by

  • @ColinMill1
    @ColinMill1 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    I seem to recall David Lewis describing how he painted his food tins and used a colour code for the contents. I suspect he had experienced something of the same issue with tin storage.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yeah, I think its a common problem, the colour coding is a good idea!

    • @ColinMill1
      @ColinMill1 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@rolty1 If I remember the full story the problem came when he lost the bit of paper with the code on. 😀

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@ColinMill1 Ah yes, that would be the snag!

    • @kentgreenough75
      @kentgreenough75 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

      Label each can with a permanent marker and get rid of the label before you store the tins. Soggy labels have fouled more than one bilge pump. Cockroaches often lay their eggs in the paper labels too. Same with cardboard, nice to carry things aboard, but get it off the boat as soon as possible.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@kentgreenough75 Yes, the permanent marker was what I used. Good point on the labels though, I will certainly keep that in mind, thank you. Fortunately UK is still fairly roach free, which is where the tins joined the boat, but point taken on that too, cheers!

  • @HotakaPeter
    @HotakaPeter 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I have heard it said that the best way to use roller furling in a blow is to bear away and provide blanketing from the main before trying to wind it in.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes that's what I do when it's necessary, one of the nice things about a smaller boat is that I can always pull in the hernia by hand, never have to winch it..

  • @mjcooke2sailingmostly
    @mjcooke2sailingmostly 12 วันที่ผ่านมา

    People on TH-cam seem to refer to gales or near gales as storms these days, the TH-cam storm 30kn, it must up the video in the algorithm like people say 'abandoned' in car or house videos. I did like the video and owned and sailed thousands of miles in an Invicta, similar boat. You took it all in your stride, a good achievement regardless of terminology.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  12 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes, technically you are right!

  • @brucewebb2005
    @brucewebb2005 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Enjoying your videos ! Can you post something about night sailing? How you doing it and what's involved? Thanks Bruce

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  12 วันที่ผ่านมา

      That's a good idea Bruce, I'll have a think about that..

    • @WightlinkUserGroup
      @WightlinkUserGroup 11 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@rolty1 No one seems to have made a video about it - probably because its a challenge to film !

  • @lagazettedesfrancais8155
    @lagazettedesfrancais8155 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Keep well

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thank you, I'll do my best!

  • @neilking
    @neilking 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Am enjoying this channel. I used to sail on a Westerly Centaur on the west coast of Scotland in the 70s but always just coastal day sailing. Sailed on a few Contessa 32s as well but never a 26. And by coincidence I now live in the Azores - on Flores but know Horta well. Looking forward to the next chapter.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Thanks Neil, the next chapter is on the way soon!

  • @jerrypolverino6025
    @jerrypolverino6025 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Thanks for a great video. As a pilot I recognized the clouds and front. Well done.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Yes, its so important to read the weather clues!

  • @spanishflew
    @spanishflew 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    wow. that was tense.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes, that was how it felt!

  • @ronkirk5099
    @ronkirk5099 7 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Is that a homebuilt windvane autopilot? Well built small boats like the C26 are perfectly capable of handling heavy weather, it all comes down to degree of comfort. Motion can be quite violent in a small boat.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  7 วันที่ผ่านมา

      You're quite right there, tough but uncomfortable!

  • @mcallahan9060
    @mcallahan9060 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    14:30 Those vegies really were having a great time!

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      They were living their best life weren't they!

  • @johnhowley-zi6db
    @johnhowley-zi6db 13 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Noted your self steering doesn’t attach to tiller: is it a direct drive design and do you reduce the wind vane size for gales? Great video too !
    Johnh

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  13 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@johnhowley-zi6db yes you are right, it's a trim tab system which operates a small auxiliary rudder attached to the rear of the main rudder , therefore no longer trailing around the cockpit! Yes I have 3 different vanes that cover most conditions

  • @shannondeconinck1146
    @shannondeconinck1146 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I’m planning on doing the same voyage solo next year. I’m currently hauled out near Lisbon, and want to sail back to the Uk. My boat makes almost no headway windward, so getting up the coast to Galicia and across the Biscay S to N could be a real pain in the ass, or impossible. So I’ve decided to go via the Azores. Lisbon to Azores I’m pretty confident about, should be on the beam all the way, but this video has made me more nervous about Azores to UK.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I've done Azores - UK twice now and both times it's had it's challenges.. this time I was doing the wrong thing and trying to work too a bit of a timetable which is never a good idea when sailing.. it's best to have time to study the weather and go when a good window appears..

    • @shannondeconinck1146
      @shannondeconinck1146 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Cheers, I’ve just subscribed. I’m probably going to be averaging less than 5 knots, so it’s going to be a couple of weeks. I’m looking into how to get weather updates offshore without it costing an arm and a leg. Any recommendations?

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@shannondeconinck1146 absolutely! I've recently made a video on exactly that, weatherfaxes on short wave radio for few pennies, check it out here;
      th-cam.com/video/rOBq4IWOTVg/w-d-xo.html

    • @shannondeconinck1146
      @shannondeconinck1146 13 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Great! Good advice. I’ll get a short wave radio. I don’t think I’ll use the topping lift, especially in any weather, maybe I’ll run it up the mizzen on its own line. All the best and thanks for the tip.

  • @jeffrandolf5673
    @jeffrandolf5673 4 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Is your mainsheet traveler attached to the tops of the aft most lifeline stanchions? It looks very weak, very fragile... one jibe & it'd ripped right off , bent or dislogded.... no diagonal bracing.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  3 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes it does look weak doesnt it, however I have had the occasional accidental crash gybe and it hasnt taken any notice at all.. in fact it seems very strong, I can stand on it and bounce and it doesnt flex.. the traveller itself is quite substantial and coupled with the stainless support it seems OK... I'm not worried about it!

  • @gerhardusvanderpoll
    @gerhardusvanderpoll 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    A yacht does not have a floor....it has a cabin sole.....

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  16 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

      Yes so I've heard, people tell me boats dont have ropes either, I must learn the proper boaty language and stop using pointy end instead of bow.. 😅

  • @kentgreenough75
    @kentgreenough75 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Oh, I am currently sailing in the Baltic, the Finnish archipelago.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Sounds great, I'd love to do that some day

  • @TroyaE117
    @TroyaE117 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    When sailing alone, it is easy to get melancholy. Your reaction is normal. Having to turn back is never good for morale and a 26 ft boat is not the biggest one around !

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      It's true! Sounds like you've been there too..

  • @SAILBOATJACARANDA
    @SAILBOATJACARANDA 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Cool stuff mate. You reckon my boat would be capable of similiar types of sailing?

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      I would say so, she looks very similar, I think you got a bargain!

  • @redwood1957
    @redwood1957 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Thank you sorry for your troubles. Could you tell what produce you keep in the air net. Thank you

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I keep most of my vegetables and fruit in it, apart from potatoes and onions which are happy in a cupboard; so tometoes, peppers, gourgettes, lemons, etc

  • @user-dx5kg1nu6k
    @user-dx5kg1nu6k 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Does the lamp above the cooker not know that it should be leaning to port? Bill

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      You're right, it doesn't seemn to have a lot of sense!

  • @doctorshawzy6477
    @doctorshawzy6477 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    after the cirrus, the altocumulus

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes, and through the whole series till its cumulonimbus!

  • @SV_Try_Magic
    @SV_Try_Magic 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    I would not ever go offshore sailing in a boat that small. My 50 foot trimaran still seems like it is on the small end of the safety net when you compare it to the environment.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      When I look at the boat at the pontoon she does look very small.. however all vessels are small in the vastness of the ocean..

  • @sailor67duilio27
    @sailor67duilio27 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    God Speed

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@sailor67duilio27 thanks, just what I need!

  • @FranklinGray
    @FranklinGray 17 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Did heaving-to to ride out the storm on the way there instead of turning around cross your mind? Usually after the storm you have a few days of nice sailing.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  17 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Yes, that could have been a good solution too, shame I can't go back and try a few different strategies..

    • @kentgreenough75
      @kentgreenough75 16 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      When crossing oceans heaving to is really nice when cooking, you don’t have to wait for a storm! You really don’t loose much distance and cooking on the nearly level is a joy, safer too, no hot pots leaping off the stove.

  • @perfstaas7188
    @perfstaas7188 3 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Did you have 41 knots of wind Sir?

  • @user-dx5kg1nu6k
    @user-dx5kg1nu6k 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    What is your SSB radio? I'm assuming you are using SailMail? Bill

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Hi Bill, the SSB radio is a D808, on offer by several companies. However it wasnt too good and the fine tuning wheel stopped working after a few days. I sent it back for a refund. I dont use sailmail, I just get the SSB faxes direct from Northwood or Hamburg (on this side of the Atlantic). I did borrow a inreach device from a friend to send location etc to concerned friends and fmily..

  • @grahamvincent
    @grahamvincent 12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    Just aquired a boat rather like this with a transom hung rudder, anyone know where I can get plans for the type of wind vane self steering like that on Green Tambourine??

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  12 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Hi Graham, I got the plans from Alan Mulholland, you can find out all about it here:
      th-cam.com/video/Wcd9Y5AS6qE/w-d-xo.htmlsi=dBYD-mOxg8ZNyAzi

    • @grahamvincent
      @grahamvincent 12 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@rolty1 Fantastic, thanks for the info. Greatly enjoying the videos.

  • @unequivocaldao1728
    @unequivocaldao1728 14 วันที่ผ่านมา

    and sailing is supposed to be fun?

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Haha good point.. perhaps without the difficult times one doesn't appreciate the great sailing so much

  •  14 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    With all the stabbings going on in England right now and a new tyrant Government letting out the murderers early out of jail to make room for facebook posts prisoners England is the last place I would want to go besides Gaza lol but loved your journey.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Thank you I'm glad you enjoyed it

    •  14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@rolty1 I seen another sailor with a small boat that has his sail ropes coming inside the cabin from pulleys on the rear of his boat so he didnt have to leave the cabin in rough weather or in the middle of the night and i think he had a camera outside also .

  • @fraserconnell21
    @fraserconnell21 18 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    We'd of done same, chap😊. Great stuff and a lovely kept T'essa. 🫡🙏

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks Frazer, difficult decisions!

  • @nicksmith8227
    @nicksmith8227 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    The Contessa design in 26 andc32ft dedigns will look after you.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@nicksmith8227 this is true of course! That's why I sail this boat, it compensates for my mistakes!

  • @HarryStucklermendotcom
    @HarryStucklermendotcom 14 วันที่ผ่านมา +3

    Setup a Patreon account. People will support you on your journey.

    • @rolty1
      @rolty1  14 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      @@HarryStucklermendotcom good idea, I'll look into that.