Solo Pacific Crossing: A Technical Deep Dive
A consulting exploration geologist recounts his 24-day, 2142-nautical-mile solo voyage from Berkeley, California, to Hilo, Hawaii, aboard his West Wight Potter 19 sailboat, "Chubby." The article details the technical preparations, safety enhancements (including improved drainage, multiple jacklines, comprehensive safety equipment), navigation (GPS, sextant, celestial navigation), electrical systems, provisioning, route planning, and weather management. Despite initial headwinds and calms, and a near miss with a hurricane, the voyage was largely smooth, showcasing both the boat's and the captain's capabilities. The author emphasizes this isn't an endorsement of the Potter 19 as a bluewater cruiser, but rather a sharing of a unique technical adventure.
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