Hello Thomas, from New Hampshire, USA! I don’t think anyone is doing the content you’ve recently dropped. Your raw, no-holds-barred monolog is refreshing. Thank you for your educational content, I appreciate it so very much and I know that you will save lives with this content. See you in a year or so on the open blue and here’s wishing you fair winds and restful sailing.
Thank you so much for your kind words and support. My former job was about saving peoples lives at see. I did this for a living, so when I see more and more ridiculous solutions and statements I feel the need for being a bit loud and clear. Not a success formula for being popular, but that’s not so important. I have seen the thankful expressions in so many faces at sea that would compensate for any attack against trying to spread some awareness. Thank you so much for being here🙏🏻
Thank you for giving the UA-cam community a perspective from an experienced sailor and world traveler that's not looking for popularity or to use people as a means to finance their short-lived sailing dreams. I respect your opinions and hope you continue to talk with sound judgement about many topics.
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words🙏🏻 This is the meaning of BE FREE ⛵️ Feeling free to live my life, and voice my opinions. I never demand people to agree with me, only to accept that it should be aloud to disagree and be honest on opinions. To me this is some of the key ingredients to BE FREE ⛵️
You have become completely unfiltered,, followed you for years now, and the mild gentle viking is now suddenly sharp and confrontational.? i do not dispute what you are saing, facts are facts and i agree,,, no experienced sailor would say you are wrong,, but why this change?
@@onsdag2k maybe it’s because these channels are popping up more and more, luring inexperienced newbies into danger. At some point I think one can’t stand the BS anymore no matter how gentle one once was.
@onsdag2K Thank you for watching and for your feedback🙏🏻 I have lost 4 solo sailor friends at sea over the last 4 years. I also have seen a lot. I'm tired of people defending stupid and sometimes it's needed to be crystal clear. I'm sorry if the last videos have been offending you in some ways. I appreciate that you have been following my adventures. All the best
@@andypdq And installed with easy access from all sides, not tucked somewhere under the stairs as an after thought. Best in apart engine room, if boat is big enough. Other wise in the middle of the saloon, easily accessible and centralised and low placed weight aiding stability.
Could not agreed more! Im allergic to motherboards and Bluetooth shit onboard. I hate it! I would add one thing to your comment, and that’s make sure it’s without a turbo as well. I have a Yanmar and it has served me very well. No issues of any sort for 7 years. But then again I have probably less hours on a ten year yacht than many have after a year. Only 1600 engine hours to date. However I have met many with turbo problems. And as you correct highlight, electric challenges. My generator is a prime example of what to not have. Thank you so much for watching and for being here
True but this is also related to what most channels have been sailing. This is the purpose of my illustrations with the waves showing how perspective changes depending on what angles you observe it from. What feels like a storm in a 35 is a nice sunny day out sailing a 55 Thank you so much for being here🙏🏻
@@captainjimolchs No, I think he’s simply stating that a larger boat literally provides greater comfort and safety in larger seas. Of course I can’t read his mind, but at least to me, that seems to be the point he’s making.
I appreciate your honesty- and agree. My current vessel has a wind generator, water generator and a great Volvo diesel. The rib has a two stroke engine so I can lift it when required. My supplementary power is used to keep my batteries charged when I am away and at anchor- if conditions permit! You have a great channel Thomas!
Thomas, thanks, all good points. Though I think they apply more to larger boats, like yours, than smaller more easily sailed boats, where an engine is a significant load and there is no way you can carry sufficient fuel to motor hundreds of miles. That said, How to sail oceans is one of my favourite channels. No engine…gaff rig…..lots of skill. I am of the view that in a sailing boat you first learn sailing skills, how to manoeuvre, anchor etc in all conditions, under sail. Otherwise you are a motor sailor, as most are. When you watch so many UA-cam sailing channels folk end up on very expensive complicated boats, and spend more time fixing stuff than sailing. They even rely on electric winches to operate sails etc. Ask yourself what happens when you are hit by an electric storm which takes all your electrics out. Be prepared, as advised by Emerald Steel, always anchor with a double reefed main, so you can sail out of trouble. Sure if you have the cash, (and a big boat) get a brand new Yanmar inboard. That said I think hybrid, electric propulsion with a diesel generator will be the future for larger boats, with freezers, dishwashers etc. ..but I have to admit for the sailing I do a motor is pretty much essential. I am 10 miles up a Scottish loch with two tidal gates. On small boats, engines are always smelly, noisy and intrusive. I do like the idea of a smooth quiet electric motor, being able to make even a couple of knots on a calm summer day. I do hear of sailors who have converted to all electric and cruise extensively and are happy with their choice.
Thank you so much for watching and for taking your time to share your opinions. My yacht can be sailed without any electricity. It is even something I have tried. Even though it’s a 55 I even often sail in and out of anchorage without using engine. I’m even enjoying my time offshore so much I really don’t care if I go so slow it add several days, knowing if I start the engine I arrive at sunrise. This video is not about size, cash or preferences. It’s solely about safety. All the best
Great episode! Before I bought my bav46e I dreamed of an all electric system while drunk on green cool aid. After crewing on a boat that needed to out run a storm, I got it. Several times my Volvo/Penta has compensated for my navigational and weather forecasting opportunities. Perhaps those perusing hybrid systems will have better luck. I like the regenerative aspect of an electric motor. From a safety perspective if you’re doing longer trips where the weather forecasts are less accurate, diesel is critical.
This is all about risk Thomas. It is not just in the sailing environment where some people don’t carry what I call “common sense insurance.” The people in life who tend to make sure that the cards are stacked in their favour might not have the most exciting or dramatic stories, but they tend to live to tell their stories. Having options is what it is all about.
We've all watched old sailors adeptly bring engineless sailboats into a slip, but prudent sailing is about stacking the deck in your favor when possible. A sudden, unpredicted wind shift could always find you being washed toward a rocky lee shore. If you can't afford an engine, that's one thing; if you can and don't choose to, that's nuts IMHO.
The first German single-handed circumnavigator, Wilfried Erdmann, sailed around the world several times without an engine. It was not until 2015 (at an advanced age) that he treated his ship 'Kathena Nui' to a 14 hp engine.
Dear Thomas, as someone who normally sails backwards while drunk, I can concur that getting around the world without an engine is harder than talking Mermaids into giving you a tow. That normally takes at least three magical green drinks. Each. I don't know about petrol outboard engines though. I rode my motorcycle into a lake once and it stopped working almost immediately. But maybe that's just my bad luck. Did I tell you that I've sailed around Cape Horn NO times at all and that time I was blown inside out? But, I'm sure I could travel the world without an engine if I could only learn how to untie the boat from the marina. However, I can get a litre of beer for only $4.00 at the club bar so why would I ? Congratulations on another fine episode. Cheers....
Ha ha😆👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Love your humor and thank you so much for being here! It’s obvious you actually watched this video 🙏🏻 Enjoy the cold ones and have a great weekend 🍻
@@SailingwithThomas ..I watch all your videos in detail. I find them to be not only informative in a transparent manner but I enjoy the humour as well. I don't actually sail anymore as I'm too old and lazy but I do enjoy living vicariously through your videos. Belgium also has 300 types of beer so why would I move ? Glad that you liked my post. Cheers, Louisa.
I have a fully electric sailboat built in 2007. Lagoon 420 Hybrid. I have been full time for 2.5 years and put almost 10,000 nm under the keel. It does have some limitations, but it also has massively increased range over standard diesel boats. Most sailboats have enough fuel for 4-8 days of motoring. My boat can motor for 30-40 days before refueling. Having a good generator is very important for a reliable hybrid system. It is a 21.5 kw Onan. I only need to run the generator for 3 to 6 hours per day to keep the batteries charged, depending on my motoring speed. I can also recharge my batteries with my 4 kw solar array or through regeneration while sailing. It is very rare that I need to motor for more than a few days without being able to raise the sails. I do have a tender with a 40 hp petrol motor. I also have a back up dinghy with an electric motor.
@ it’s true. I only need to run my generator for 3-6 hours for every 24 hours of motoring. I have 2 electric motors and each one has a 72v, 280ah battery bank. 3 knots draws 11 amps. 4 knots of speed requires about 20 amps. 5 knots uses about 30 amps of draw. My top speed is 7 knots, but anything over 5 is not efficient for long periods.
@@RobertBinedell Modern electric solutions are fine. BUT your boat must be big enough to house enough solar and a decent generator. The energy density of modern batterys is growing by the day. Only caveat is: don't use car batterys for that, that could be a deadly mistake. For small boats all of this doesn't work (yet).
@@MrJoelkamins 72V, never heard of such voltage. Can't you get shocked at this tension? Isn't that a bit dangerous.. Like, salty water on the bilge etc.? Very interesting to read about your numbers. How do you say maintaining your generator compares with a normal propulsion engine? In terms of how much trouble it gives you.
@@tiagorinckcaveden4114 72v is an efficient voltage for marine propulsion. There are multiple motor options at this voltage. Its really not more dangerous than a 48v system. I have not had any major problems with the generator. The impeller has failed once, and the belt twice. I keep spares on the boat. Otherwise I just do a regular servicing every 6 months or 250 hours. Shaft drives, so no sail drives to service either. This system requires much less maintenance than 2x diesel propulsion engines plus a generator. The technology has finally caught up with the intentions of green efficiency. I am sure that these systems will be commonplace in 10 years.
Every time someone tells me Joshua Slocum sailed around the world with no engine I also point out that if you read his book he took many tows and he went missing .
Not to mention that it was 120 years ago and he was on a shoestring budget. I don't even know if you could fit a small craft with an engine when he first set sail, let alone if you could refuel it at many ports. Crikey, the guy's clock didn't even keep good time. He's still a legend though!
True, and Vos, in Tillicum, around the same time. Then of course, the Pardys, more recently in two engineless, self built boats, Talesin being one of them.
@davidbrayshaw3529 Slocum was the captain of the last engine less sailing cargo ship. A huge beautiful sailing vessel that under Slocum's command ended up on the rocks on the Atlantic side of South America. The last engine less sailing cargo ship that actually circled the world ended up on the rocks. Slocum used lumber from the wreckage to build a narrow 30ff long canoe style sailing vessel and took his wife and kids home on the New England coast. His family refused to be involved in sailing plus with the last sailing cargo ship wrecked there would be no more ships for Slocum to command. If didn't help that prior to the ship being destroyed there was a mutiny on board and Slocum was forced to shoot dead the most aggressive mutinieer. Legal but not a connon action to take at that time. Slocums decision to circumnavigate was in part based on the fact he would never have another command. Slocum had a base of knowledge and level of Seamanship that even in those days was elite and compared to modern sailors Slocum had so much knowledge and skill There are few today that could pull of such an adventure using just the equipment he had. I do think if they made compact reliable motors in his day and he could have got one for free he probably would have accepted it. When he decided to build his boat for the journey he found a property that had an old oyster boat rotting away on stands. He got permission from the land owner to build a copy of that boat with timber from the trees on that land. Slocum used a log as his keel and took and copied each piece of the old ship with new wood until the oyster boat was taken apart and the new boat was finished. He built it out of green wood like the French navy did. Imagine how much work that would be for one person. Slocums capacity as sailer and boat builder was exceptional. Building a boat by yourself like that requires knowing every trick prior to attempting. Slocum did not disappear he was struck broad side by a steam ship. The captain was terribly upset he saw it was Slocums boat just prior to striking it and the stayed for hours hoping to rescue him or at least recover the body there were just shattered planking floating about. It was such a tragic end to such an amazing man the lie that he disappeared was spread as a way of safe guarding Slocums life story and to keep the captain of the ship who killed him from being the captain that killed Slocum. Comparing Slocum to modern sailors does not make sense his abilities where far more than sailors living today.
@@faircompetition1203 I'd rather live Slocum's experiences than breathe diesel fumes. I think there's too many people who think that a 50 hp Yanmar on their mini condo on the water is the life. The only thing they need is a drive thru McDonald on the water. God help us.
I live on my boat 7 months of the year and sail 3-4k nm every season. I put about ~100 hours on the diesel engine, for safety at sea and maneuvering in anchorages/marinas. Even though the engine is one of the most critical systems on the boat maintenance wise, I rarely use it and sail into and out of anchorages/mooring fields as much as possible. I'd rather try to do everything under sail than rely on the engine, but realize having auxiliary propulsion is about keeping yourself and others safe. Every season, there are situations that arise where an engine is the difference between having a good or a bad day.
Totally agree!!! No matter how skilled a sailer/yachty one is, there will be a situation one day that the engine SAVES the day… avoids damage to your boat and/or someone else’s property… not to mention rescuing crew and vessel from a lee shore… If only we could ask the one’s sailing the seven seas in the old days….. by sail and I mean by sail only, because there were’nt any engines…. I’ld be surprised If they, looking at what we’ve got available for little money now and here, would tell you to stick just to sails for propulsion… Realising the reliability of marine engines of these days they would surely suggest to forget about sails altogether….
If you have an engine, you should use it. It will last much longer. Diesel engines like to work under load. They suffer more from prolonged periods of inactivity, and / or being used just for 20 minutes or so, to get out of slip. That means that they can't reach working temperature and always working cold, with poor lubrication. Oil needs to get warm and reach every where.
For the reasons you have given I've gone for 2 electric outboards (2 x 10hp) for my 43 foot catamaran.. I'm replacing an old unreliable 30hp diesel with sail drive with a new 30hp diesel. It's for all of those serious safety situations. It has 125A alternator which will be useful for charging the 30kWh combineed 12V and 48V batteries. I have 3kW of solar to put all over my decks to speed up charging in those no wind times. While it's twice the engine hardware. It does have the advantage of the best of both worlds.
both worlds are the best worlds. Out of fuel, electric! Electric gone stupid? Old reliable diesel. Both are down? :v set sail! sail is down? It was great effort and you go down with no regrets
Not long ago a fully electric ocean crosser failed and the two on board did not survive. Its a danger for one self and others to make such a lethal misstake. Hopefully this videos that tells the truth, will save lives, so thank you. May the wind be favorable and the sky blue. Best wishes Kristiansand 👋🌟✨️😊
I am not a sailor but enjoy your videos. You have a clear mindset with good reasoning and display the attributes of an excellent sailor. I am an ex seafarer then ex offshore Marine Pilot and I was always vigilant in my job and had a back up plan in case an emergency arose. Unfortunately there are some Captains of ship's who rely too much on luck and do not prepare for the unexpected, like some sailors. Safe sailing. Cheers from Durban, South Africa ⛵️
I like the way you share your experiences with much common sense. Our 1978 DownEast carriers 100 gallons of diesel and uses about 2 liters an hour at 1800rpm. We only need to refuel every 3-4 months as long as we don’t mind going 3-4 knots😛 But if we need it to run in no wind or really bad weather or get in an out of marina with current we have it as backup for our safety and know it is always an option. Having options can be a lifesaver in ocean conditions. Keep up the great videos, I always learn something from them- thank you!
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻 It’s evidence based science. Not opinions some would claim. I have worked with preparedness and risk management. This was one of the takeaways from my former carrier. All the best
Well, my father and his woman sailed across the pond and spent over two years onboard before returning, and they had an electric engine. They swear by it, and would never ever return to a diesel. They say: real sailors only need the engine when mucking about in the marina, if even that. Half of the points you bring up is in practice: "I can't do this with an electric engine, but I can with diesel." But you don't reflect on why you need to do these things in the first place. Its like an ICE driver complaining that he can't do quick refills with an EV, while in reality he just needs to plan a little better so he doesn't need to refuel in 2min to make his day work. In short, you need to be a better sailor, more intune with the sea, when you have an electric engine, and then its just fine. Edit: And yes, they used only the electric engine.
Rather than saying, 'You need to be a better sailor, more in tune with the sea, when you have an electric engine,' it would more accurate to say, 'It is possible to sail with only an electric engine if the scope of your sailing is carefully tuned and limited so that it can work.' Your argument will have a greater influence upon me when an electric-only boat goes through the North West Passage. As with most things, it's horses for courses. 🙂
@notaseriousbeaver Thank you so much for watching. I am happy to know your father is safe and sound after his sailing adventure. But I don't agree with your statement, It's like saying a great sailor can ignore safety because he is a great sailor. Many sailors have successfully crossed the Atlantic without life rafts, EPIRB, sat phones, etc. But it does not mean they are great sailors. I am definitely not saying your father is not a great sailor, only do not support your conclusion. Crossing the Atlantic during the right seasons is actually quite easy. In Asia, you will experience a different ballgame. Extreme distances lots of strong ocean currents combined with 6 months of no wind, and some months with either no wind or cyclone-force winds. I would say only having the capacity equal in/out marina would come to short pretty fast. My new neighbor is a very good sailor, having sailed full time for the last 15 years full circle and halfway again. He managed to make it back here without his mast after losing it 500 nautical miles away. I would say that a real sailor understands and makes sure to be prepared for what can happen, and act accordingly. His strong diesel engine and sufficient amount of diesel was a lifesaver. And in this region, you can not expect any Search And Rescue resources to assist you. You are on your own.
@@SailingwithThomas As more new boat designs incorporate electric technology the diesel will slowly disappear. Will probably take another fifty to one hundred years.
Thomas love your channel from Ireland. YOUR Straight talking, highly experienced opinions are a pleasure to listen to. NOT Salesman Bull.S.... , or making videos that will do well on UA-cam etc.., you do videos with REAL Information. LOVE It !!!!!!! . Great video. AN IDEA for future video to carry on from this video, do a video on ''Distant Shores'' new Hybrid boat , nice boat, experienced sailors, (also a little selling their product) sure they are so big they got a big deal for exposure to the boat brand, but also being such experienced sailors are videoing a good boat (dare i say selling) a good boat brand. Would love your honest take on their new boat, and MORE about their HYBRID ENGINE. Thank Thomas for your channel.
Thank you Thomas A lot of work you done in this with with this great simple to understand illustration and a clear personal opinion. Wish you all the best and hope to see you somewhere around the world.
thank you sooooo much for the education. we need to hear the truth!!! Some will make their decision but at leadt you have gone to the trouble to try to educate. Fantastic video Thomas thank you so much and keep this kind coming. Be safe
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words 🙏🏻 Safety is nothing to play with. I’m not gonna talk people out of doing things, that’s not my mission in life. But if I can contribute to see things from different perspectives helping to question things it’s something good. At least that’s what I believe in. But some things are for a fact, and offshore you are left alone. My Diesel engine also double as a powerful bilge pump that can run nonstop for 10 days. In most cases this would been sufficient to stay afloat and either make repairs or reach land. Thank you so much for being here
I fully agree with you about the beard, Thomas, but your track record is more than enough evidence your opinion does not fall out of the sky, at least that’s my opinion! Keep up the good work! 😂
Your videos are getting better and better Thomas. You are putting a lot of effort. I really hope your channel will grow even more. Thank you for your expertise and honesty, and for this video as well. Fair winds.
Thank you so much for watching and your kind words. Yes videos like this takes a ridiculous amount of time to make, and I often feel the challenge where to draw the line in details and information. So I am very thankful to see its appreciated. Thank you
@@SailingwithThomas Making videos my self I pretty much know the amount of time taking. Thank you for doing that. Maybe the reward will be big, carry on!
Your are so right. I live on Cape cod And sometimes i could not make any progress to windward with the current against me. I have to go over a shalow bar to get into the harbor. I have lightly run aground but thanx to my engine. I have been able to spin around. and escape the situation.
Thank you so much 🙏🏻 I made that illustration for a video about how to understand weather and to best plan your circle navigation. Might have to finish that video one day
100% agree with you thomas. Even if electric boat had the range, the cost and complexity doesn't make sense compared to a reliable diesel marine engine. Like you say normally not much diesel is used each year on a sailboat but it is important to have the ability to motor a when it's needed
Thank you so much for watching and for your comment 🙏🏻 It makes absolutely no sense with hybrid either, if you take the added complexity and extreme costs for average sailor. You will never be able to defend such investment. All the best
I have a small boat with a tiny cabin. I use it to coastal cruise. I have battery electric and a small 25 pound generator to charge with or run the motor direct with. Reason i go with this setup vs a outboard is simplicity and reliability. My gen is significantly easier to remove the carb and clean in a pinch. It can be done before every outing in 10 minutes. The electric motor requires no more maintenance than a fresh water rinse. I turn it on it goes everytime. My range with just battery is around 30 plus miles, which is the extent of my travel most days. It could go further but thats the farthest i have went with 60% left on the guage. So probably 60 miles give or take. I agree with you on everything. Unless it was a very large diesel electric ship i wouldnt be cruising across oceans. Given my boat is 21ft i know nothing of that world and have enough to explore in my neighborhood to last a lifetime. If i had the dream to sail around the world it would be on a very large boat beyond my financial reach. Maybe if i sold my house and land but thats a hard no for me. So for me electric coastal cruising with occasional gen power for quick charging.
I sailed the USVI for several years without an engine. Reason no money to replace the old Atomic 4. After two years installed a Kubota 3 cylinder diesel, worth the wait. Admittedly the Caribbean has very dependable trades.Made me a much better sailor.
Hello Thomas! My long time hero is Kevin from How To Sail Oceans. And you are Norwegian! I'm sure you work for an oil company!!! Haha, joke aside. Thank you for shedding light on these things. I wanted to go full electric, and you have made it clear that I can concentrate on other things. Thanks Again.
Ha ha! Great comment! As a Norwegian I support oil because it is one of the key elements for making sails, fiberglass, carbon fiber, anti fouling, paint and basically everything onboard a yacht. Not to forget all the gas we ship to various nations helping them to power their green cars 😆 I belive many are giving a totally wrong image of diesel engines in sail boats. The questions is how old are those boats that has this unreliable problematic engines they compare with electric. Its the twin rudder discussion all over again. Influencers with 50 years old boats telling a diesel engine is trouble..... My engine use very little diesel, have run flawlessly since new and all I do is change oil, filter and impeller. It is for most sailors with old boats cheaper to replace the engine with a brand new one. The CO2eq is also interesting calculation here. Fair winds
I saw a wonderful little film of a Folkboat with electric motor on a short passage where they had to run a noisy petrol generator and eventually change course and put in somewhere way off the intended route to get more petrol!!
This is the reality for every single “fully electric” I have met on my way. If they showed it they where at least transparent 👍🏻 Thank you so much for watching 🙏🏻
@@SailingwithThomas I remember _Uma_ having to put their noisy generator on the foredeck to try and avoid the noise and fumes when they were struggling to make headway!! I got stranded in the Gulf of Mexico having refueled in _Cozumel_ and being sold contaminated diesel after we refused to pay a bribe - that was bad enough! _CHEERS!_
It's what I do minus I bring enough fuel for the gen. I only coastal cruise though. And with 30plus miles on battery alone I have never ended up needing rescue or visited the margins. Even after doing a 30-mile run, I still had 60% on the batteries at full power. I'm a small 21-foot boat, though.
Hello Thomas, you have once again done a very instructive video! Who knows how many lives, boats and egos this will save? I never considered moving my boat if there was an engine less one near me. You’re experience through observation are very welcoming! Thanks SV Skoiern lV
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words! If I manage to point sailors in some directions for independent thinking and broaden perspective I am very happy.
I agree a good adequate engine is important especially at anchor or docked . I was on my boat during a hurricane at dock and had the engine running and in forward to keep it centered in the slip .
Hi Thomas, have you ever made a video regarding Hydrovane or similar systems? (I cannot see any but just in case). If not, what is your opinion on those systems? Thanks a lot,
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻 I have not yet made a dedicated video about Wind vanes, but have a project lying in my drawer. I might put it together soon. I believe modern sailors with modern yachts should not waste money on it as a short answer. Many will argue, but it’s the twin rudder discussion full of myths and sales arguments all over again. It for sure needs to be highlighted and explained.
@@SailingwithThomas Thanks a lot Thomas, you're a gentleman, it's great to have such publicly available support with less than 24-hour turnaround :) I put in my 2 cents in case it could help anyone (and as you always say, this is applicable to my case, somebody else's case may be different). I want to have full redundancy for my upcoming crossing, so I started looking at different systems. As far as I understand, all systems other than Hydrovane make use of your own boat's rudder so yes you would be covered if your autopilot fails but not if your rudder fails / gets broken. Hydrovane has the advantage of giving "full redundancy" as it comes with its own rudder but if you lose you boat's rudder due to an impact etc, it's reasonable to think that the same unidentified floating object will also impact your hydrovane. It's not a sure thing but if it happens I wouldn't be surprised. So actually a full redundancy consists in an independent emergency rudder that you can install after the event, I have designed such a system and will have it fabricated. Yes, it will not be perfect and it will not be an autopilot but it will give me a rudder for five percent of Hydrovane's cost. Then on the autopilot side I have bought the critical spares to repair the system (assuming my boat's rudder is still functional) and this has also costed roughly thirty percent of a Hydrovane system. So all in all, my setup still has vulnerabilities (which one doesn't have?) but I'm happy with it as it is. Thanks again for your help,
Sorry folks, just discovered the benefits of using a drogue for the same purpose and it's much less hassle & same performance as an emergency rudder if properly rigged up so this is the option I'll go with.
@@captainjimolchs "Good seamanship" doesn't save you from a spontaneous rig failure (they happen, most often at the worst time), or any other type of unforeseen mechanical malfunction or accident, for that matter.
@@falkpatt People who have no engine are prepared to deal with these things. They are more competent than th9se who feel helpless without one. Get one if you want. Don 't tell the rest of us what to do.
Hey Thomas. Another honest and straight talking video. Thank you muchly. I watched a video the other day saying that roller furlers are dangerous……I noticed you have a twin sail, solent rig……any chance you could share your experience of your chosen rig? Murky buckets (merci beaucoup) 😂
Thank you so much for your funny comment and for being here🙏🏻 Furler, no furler is like autopilot vs wind vane. No solution is bulletproof, and it mostly comes down to maintenance. I believe you will get as many different answers as people you ask. It is impossible to place all similar solutions in the same box, furling is not just furling. I have had both and many miles with both solutions. Even with rotating inside the boom. From a solo sailors perspective I still believe a furling sail is the best. I have furling Genoa and furling Genaker. My main sail is not. Honestly I have no strong opinions in any directions here because it’s end of the day more preferences that anything else. If it’s poorly maintained it can create more trouble with a furling, so the other solutions are more forgiving. Thank you for being here
Fully agree. I would like to expand on this though. Sailors should still rehearse (while the weather is favourable) maneuvers like anchoring and MOB without a motor just in case the need arises. In my 30 years of sailing I have learned the motor will run reliably until it suddenly decides not to anymore.
I had a Tartan 34 with 1000 watt solar and 10kw Elco motor. We cruised the Gulf coast of Florida. Definitely tricky. Battery technology is barely starting to make it feasible, but another few years I think it will be more doable. But it is awesome to never have to go to a marina.
I believe in some parts of the world it can make sense for costal cruising. But in Asia it’s not much sunshine now, and no wind either. I barely manage my daily use of computer and domestic consumption now. Thank you so much for watching and for sharing 🙏🏻
Just subscribed to your channel, love your style 😊 Totally agree and I would go as far as to say that even hybrid systems do not make sense even from an enviromental perspective, let alone all the compromises you have to make (system complexity, added weight, reliability, lower performance, how do you get things fixed remotely). I did not know about the Panama Canal min speed requirement. Learnt something new and have never heard anyone else mention this
Thanks for the feedback and glad you enjoyed the video! The Panama Canal is a good example of what I'm talking about, regulations are quite strict and can be impossible to follow when you are limited to only sailing. I'm not trying to talk people out of following their dreams, only trying to help their dreams to become more realistic and hopefully safer. The hybrid solutions were not a topic here because many struggle to separate this from the "fully electric" nonsense. But totally agree with you a modern serial hybrid makes absolutely no sense for the average sailor. It's an incredibly expensive alternative to something that's working. The benefit such a complex solution brings to the table can not defend the added costs, nor the footprint in total CO2eq if people want to be honest. In my opinion, hybrid solutions are the fast track to keep ordinary sailors off the market to buy a new yacht. Who wants to buy something costing 100K more with extremely small benefits besides the illusion of going green? In my humble opinion,n it can not defend its place, and it is experiential tech for those enjoying this. But when it comes to offshore sailing you want more reliable and simple solutions. But hey if people can afford it and want to play with the newest tech why not.
Thank you so much for watching and for your comment as well 🙏🏻 Where I am right now there is long distance between some islands, zero wind and 5-7 knots at the peak. Even with engine good planning pays off around here. And right now begging of the raining season and the charging effect has dropped with 30% per week. Thank you for being here
Hi Tom is it worth getting a hand crank diesel engine just in case you lose electric power.love your content I just subscribed and looking at your videos alot you have alot of experience.😊
Great video and an honest appraisal. Where is the world going to get rid of the lithium battery when it expires. That will be a challenge for future generations.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here. It’s quite interesting discussion on the side of this videos core message, but if people are so green they wanna go electric they should not be on a boat to start with. It’s so much chemicals and minerals involved, not to forget thousands of kilos of petroleum products made into a floating home. To me this is not very logical. I am aware of the impact and try to leave as small footprints as possible. But if people started to do some serious calculations on CO2eq a fully electric are loosing big time towards a traditional Diesel engine on a yacht. Even if only spread out over 10 years, even worse if stretched to 20. Only my solar panels alone takes 7-10 years to become CO2eq neutral. It’s totally on the side, so I apologize for the long reply. Nevertheless it’s a side of the game rarely discussed. I’m totally not against trying to be as sustainable as possible. All the best ⛵️
@ I have a big diesel guzzling generator onboard with an electric stove old fashioned batteries and no solar panels. Whilst I will probably put some solar onboard soon. The cost analysis for replacing all the batteries with lithium and solar is outrageous compared to the cost of running a large generator. It’s an interesting concept as we look to more beneficial and cost saving ways to manage power and keep the impact on the planet as small as possible.
Emotionally and philosophically I would love to choose the greenest solution that I can. However, we have just experienced the dilemma of a diesel fuel pump that has failed . That removes the engine from our equation. A mate jokingly said it is a sailing boat, just turn left at the river mouth and sail home. We are in a river which has a very strong tidal flow and it’s risky to try crossing the bar with only sails. Instead, we have so far used the engine as little as possible. And we intend to continue that way. We don’t plan to cross oceans, so carrying the couple of extra Jerry cans of fuel is probably ok. Maybe one day we will try an electric outboard, but I don’t think we will get rid of the petrol one.
Sadly there are many sailing channels out there trying to kill you. They are for sure high up on my list of dangerous sailing influencers. Thank you for watching
I think it also applies to day sailing or island hopping. Things break especially in heavy weather which because of its nature is unpredictable and can arrive ahead of forecast. One can also be becalmed where a turning tide can get you in trouble. Accidents also happen. Its putting lives at risk not to mention the boat. For me batteries and water do not mix and can even be a fire hazard.
Thank you for watching 🙏🏻 yes in today's busy waters it is definitely smart to have engine also for coastal sailing. However the biggest argument in my opinion is for offshore sailing if your rig comes down. It's not always possible to jury rig and keep sailing. Some seem to forget it can be pretty rough out there, and you might even be short in time for the last 800 nautical miles before violent storms arrive. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and opinions as well, and for being here🙏🏻
We have a 25.6ft Nordic Folkboat - for racing in the Solent. We used to have a petrol honda outboard to get into and out of the marina. We had all sorts of dramas starting the honda and we replaced it with an electric outboard. Big mistake! The spring tides and a strong breeze means often we are stuck. The electric outboard is quiet and clean but it has no punch & my concern is that if we had to move out of the way for safety we couldn't if wind or tide against us (ferries, RIBs - Solent is too busy). Anyhow, i am getting too old to race and I am looking for a little day boat with a good solid diesel.
A Nordic folk boat ❤️ Thank you so much for sharing your experience and for being here🙏🏻 Your absolutely spot on! I once almost had a big motor yacht run me over in the Ionian Sea. I was doing 3 knots with my light wind sail. If I had not turned on the engine and moved fast forward I would not been out sailing with BE FREE. A 90 foot coming at 25 knots straight to me at open waters would been really bad. I even hailed him on VHF before starting my engine to tell him I’m here. First after he had passed me with his yacht full of screaming people I managed to get in touch with him. He claimed I had to give place due to his size…. Oh well, another captain with a Disney world 200T license.
Grt insight. As toll man tim would say..."more power"! I'm not a lover of alternative power solutions. They come across as inadequate. And unreliable. They also create their own, negative environmental problems. But if you like them, no problem. 🤙
Agree 100% some like Uma and Beau & Brandy sailing have electric and have just been lucky on longer passages . When you have a range of under 40 KM . You do not have enough for currents and no wind. It affects how they sail as well
That's why they need a small gen. But then they would have to accept 100% electric isn't 100% safe. I have electric with a gen. Extremely reliable. And my range on battery alone is more than 30miles.
E good if you are a lake or bay sailor .If you sail less than your range away from the home dock of safety . Times I wish I had electric or a hybrid system as a back up. Just when you need to get out far enough to raise the sails
Thank you so much for watching and for being here. A few jerry cans of petrol will not help much on a fully electric if dismasted in the middle of the ocean. Seeing the status and age of some of those boats I certainly agree they have been more than lucky. Sailing Aquarius lost both masts on their Amel, luckily sailors on the same route could pass over some diesel so they could make it safe to shore. I have seen a lot not only from my sailing, but also from my former job. Removing an important part of the safety equation is not very smart. It works until it doesn’t. All the best
Thank you for sharing your common sense views about sailing. UA-cam is full of terrible information about the subject of sailing, mostly from young inexperienced sailors with lots of hubris. Electric drive is an absolutely horrible idea and highly dangerous, not to mention costly and just flat out unnecessary...for anyone other than a casual daysailor. So is using raw dyneema or spectra for standing, not running rigging. Would love to hear your take in this in a video hahaha. There are tons of people preaching that its superior to stainless or rod rigging in every possible way (see riggingdoctor). Maybe it's because they're plugging products they got for free, but at the end of the day it's bad advice to tell people to do these types of modifications. Thank you for being a breath of fresh air in the sea of sailing B.S.😮 all over UA-cam.
You hit the nail on the head calling it a cult. Once a person has been convinced that total green systems exist nothing can persuade them otherwise. If your "green" car boat or whatever requires electricity its no green, that power has to come from somewhere.
Which can come from a fossil free source, like the sun or your own prop. This is not rocket science for gods sake. And electric works, my father bet his life on it, and he returned after years just fine.
Thomas, your channel has become one of my absolute favorites. You call it as you see it, and I have yet to find anything I don’t agree with. On the twin rudders I had a different opinion before your video, but realized that it was not based on any reality, after watching. As for this topic about the engines and the green dream, you are spot on. Unfortunately you are going to upset a lot of people who have bought into the green agenda, but please keep going and say it as you see it. It is a breath of fresh air!!!
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words! I for sure have stirred the pot this time but I believe its a good thing. I do not look so attractive in bikini so to get attention a bit provoking title seems to work just as well. This topic has proven to be overdue to highlight only looking at many of the comments here, so hopefully I have managed to point some in the right direction. Thank you for your support
I sailed my Halcyon 27 over 3,000 miles with a broken engine. I was almost shipwrecked a number of times or rammed by big ships. Sailing without an engine may be stupid but it is very exciting!
Ha ha😆 Thank you so much 🙏🏻 It was a shitt show in one anchorage inspiring me to make this. Just unbelievable! Thank you so much for watching and for being here
Thomas. One point I am not clear on. Do I need a generator? Can I not just use my diesel to recharge my batteries. It seems to be a better use of precious design fuel... recharging and moving the boat with same gallon of fuel. I do not plan to cross oceans but coastal cruising is in the future hopefully
Hi there, you definatly do not need a generator. Today you can have serious effective alternators that will provide you with the electricity you need. Also this comes with a cost though, and main reason why many bigger yachts have generator is sound and vibration is significant less than running your main engine. Also you save engine hours on your more expencive engine. At least when in bigger yachts. But yes I would say it is a huge advantage running generator from the same fuel system as your main engine. I have had lots of problems in the past with my generator before I found out what was wrong with it. So I do have a fair amount of experience being depended on a petrol generator. Very noicy and restricted in use due to either weather or the fact you dont wanna drive your neighbours nuts. Also the average portable petrol generators are not that powerful comared to a proper diesel generator. When running my generator I do lots of things simultaniously to save hours and fuel. I run watermaker and charge batteries whilst doing vacum cleaning and lots of other things. So it do have its benefits with a solid power on demand solution. And it doesent burn as much diesel either, and by far more fuel efficient than even 4 stroke petrol generators. Thank you so much for being here
You would want to have 2 alternators on your engine both high capacity. Liquid cooled is definitely better. 😊 This is because your runs will probably be short and you want to get the maximum amount of Charge in a short time, this will also help with loading up your engine if you charge your batteries on anchor.
Epic! Most production yachts comes with to small diesel capacity in my opinion. I am lucky having a big capacity, and also space in my tender garage to carry extra. I prefer to have the capacity of at least 50% of my passage by engine in case of emergency
Yachts need back up systems to propel it. Most yachts have diesel engines that can be used to help enter and exit small marina's or when the wind stops to get to their swing moorings or moorings I have seen electric motors driving prop shafts via a invertor this is a okay for short distance to propel the yacht in good weather conditions. The norm is 3,5hp per ton for yacht engine power it will cope in most storms. Boat design is also a factor. It may have a lot of windage so more power is needed 5 to 6 hp per ton. Plus your engine needs to be totally reliable. Don't need engine faulure at crucial moments the engine is also a brake to slow down and stop you have full control over your yacht.
This is a question you will receive just as many different answers to as the people you ask. It for sure has some advantages and I do only have good experience with it. Sometimes I wish I had it. But for long distance solo sailor simple solutions are better, even though a furling is easier to sail with. But if it’s jammed you have a big challenge. I guess it’s just as many positive things as negative on both solutions. End of the day maintenance is key. Thank you so much for being here🙏🏻
An electric motor is suitable as a supplement to an existing diesel engine or engines but only without affecting their capabilities. An electric motor will help save running hours of the main engines if its power and power source is sufficient. Even an ocean-going ship has to jump between islands sometimes
I am often thankful for my volvo md1. Other times I curse the oily stinky thing. Overall, a very useful if not critical thing to fall back on. All that said, I would like an engineless sailing boat, small enough to be rowed, for coastal and creek exploration only.
Chris did a nice shout out for your channel! But by all means he is the most rudest dude on UA-cam. I’ve been watching him for a couple years. I agree with this topic 100% you need a motor you nailed it with the safety issues
some people get away with it, as people have since antiquity, but things happen, you could die because you don't have one, I had a board get stuck, wind died, current picked up, drifted helplessly toward rocks. its easy to get into big trouble without one, that one would have saved you from and delivered you from. it can save your life.
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your experience. I’m pretty confident in the statement removing engine from the equation is 1 major safety element lost.
and those same people drive dingy without oars, and dont carry epirb and sailing sinkable boats yet swear the engine is more important for safety. In reality, a fast boat without an engine that can out sail weather systems is already safer than a slow one with an engine that cannot but the majority of people choose slow boats with engines that often break down.
Sailing has two main problems: 1) people with schedules 2) people on other boats. There's just not enough room or time to deal with dynamic conditions, boat traffic in anchorages, or Cap'n Rons who come in hot and are obviously ill-prepared. For an activity where it can feel as if one is at risk from dying of boredom, life threatening conditions can and do arise in a matter of seconds or a short number of minutes. Having a working engine there isn't just insurance, it's a necessity. Arguing for heading off engineless is like lobbying for a highway tour of the continental US in a 3 wheeled Reliant Robin.
Hi What is your honest thought about having your 2 stroke outboard that literally pumps it's exhaust and lubricating oil out with the cooling water. Well mixed you use probably 50:1. So every 50 gallons of outboard gasoline used you pump 1 gallon of oil into the world's oceans.
My honest thoughts about that is you then have a problem! Normally the symptoms your pointing at indicates serious failures or wear internal to the engine, such as excessively worn, valve guides, worn or broken piston rings, failed head gasket, etc. So my take on this is that’s not good at all. Thank you so much for watching
@@SailingwithThomas what? I was asking about your two stroke outboard motor. No valves there. Normal use with perfect functioning and running engine pumps oil into oceans.
Hola Thomas, Kudos for your videos, I love your experienced no bullshit style! Did you already do a video on hull materials? Apart from the one on aluminum and electric/hybrid engines.....
It is true, it seems truly foolish to me that a boat that, at least, 80% of its journey is made with the power of the wind. What can be more ecological than that? Between the sailing channels, I also follow Delos and Brian, who is building the Delos 2.0 model, an aluminum catamaran that uses a large amount of electrical energy for motorization. It seemed strange to me that, with the experience gained, Brian would embark on an electric boat. However, I think it is more a question of sponsorship, which is not bad, since he promotes a well-known brand of lithium batteries, and it is a financial decision rather than a full conviction that this is the solution. Your videos are excellent! A big hug from Venezuela. May God bless you always.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻 I belive your comment is spot on, and actually quite relevant for this topic and many similar discussions. All the best
I agree that AS YET electric systems aren't quite good enough for long-distance sailing, however that's going to change... quickly! Give it ten years and most vessels will have exclusively electric secondary drives, because they're more reliable than combustion engines, and don't require fuel that can vary in quality or even deteriorate in the holding tank. They are low-maintenance and vastly more efficient than combustion methods. The only thing holding pure e-drive back is on-site generation. but this is advancing steadily and, with the right developments, I'm certain it'll turn the corner very soon indeed.
Nice video, good to hear common sense advice on safety management of the auxiliary engine. So much BS surrounding "green" boats. Good way to lose the boat, or your life, off a lee shore.
On diesel inboards...If you have a medium size sailboat 26-32 ft, that sails well, not like one of the Condo Catamarans, you don't need an inboard. A 6-10hp outboard will do the job of getting you in an out of a marina and stop you drifting onto the rocks when the wind fails. And for the weekend warrior, it will get you home to your mooring in time for work on a Monday. Even Kevin on HTSO has the ability to put his dinghy outboard on his transom and motor out of trouble in a pinch. An inboard introduces thru-hulls which can fail if not maintained, and send you and your boat to the bottom - people are lazy and do not maintain their thru-hulls let alone their engine. If you are good on your maintenance of both diesel engine and thru-hulls then an inboard is a good idea. I see a few comments about Uma...anyone that takes their electric inboard fetish seriously needs their head read. They are good marketers those two, and pleasant enough people, and if you treat their channel as nothing but entertainment, then no harm done - but don't take their BS on electric sailing seriously.
I have been designing solar systems for 32 yrs in Africa and would not put to sea without a good diesel engine. no chance. The remote game lodges and islands we have have installed upto 150Kw all have diesel generators for the occasions of no sun or an issue with the solar plant.
Thanks for the real-world perspective, I think it really shines a light on the importance of reliable backup power. Also out at the big blue you are left alone. Thank you so much for watching 🙏🏻
Ha ha😆 Well I have towed quite a few sailors, some with a UA-cam channel as well. All I can say it’s often a bit of a distance from what you see to what’s the reality. Cheers 🍻
Hello Thomas, from New Hampshire, USA! I don’t think anyone is doing the content you’ve recently dropped. Your raw, no-holds-barred monolog is refreshing. Thank you for your educational content, I appreciate it so very much and I know that you will save lives with this content. See you in a year or so on the open blue and here’s wishing you fair winds and restful sailing.
Thank you so much for your kind words and support. My former job was about saving peoples lives at see. I did this for a living, so when I see more and more ridiculous solutions and statements I feel the need for being a bit loud and clear. Not a success formula for being popular, but that’s not so important.
I have seen the thankful expressions in so many faces at sea that would compensate for any attack against trying to spread some awareness.
Thank you so much for being here🙏🏻
Thank you for giving the UA-cam community a perspective from an experienced sailor and world traveler that's not looking for popularity or to use people as a means to finance their short-lived sailing dreams. I respect your opinions and hope you continue to talk with sound judgement about many topics.
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words🙏🏻 This is the meaning of BE FREE ⛵️
Feeling free to live my life, and voice my opinions. I never demand people to agree with me, only to accept that it should be aloud to disagree and be honest on opinions. To me this is some of the key ingredients to BE FREE ⛵️
You have become completely unfiltered,, followed you for years now, and the mild gentle viking is now suddenly sharp and confrontational.? i do not dispute what you are saing, facts are facts and i agree,,, no experienced sailor would say you are wrong,, but why this change?
@@onsdag2k maybe it’s because these channels are popping up more and more, luring inexperienced newbies into danger. At some point I think one can’t stand the BS anymore no matter how gentle one once was.
@onsdag2K
Thank you for watching and for your feedback🙏🏻
I have lost 4 solo sailor friends at sea over the last 4 years. I also have seen a lot. I'm tired of people defending stupid and sometimes it's needed to be crystal clear.
I'm sorry if the last videos have been offending you in some ways. I appreciate that you have been following my adventures.
All the best
@tomwolf9420
Your spot on👍
Thank you so much for being here🙏🏻
A simple mechanical injection diesel with no fancy electronic engine management system,and a good reliability reputation is the way to go.
@@andypdq 👍🏻 Ford Lehman 80hp
@@andypdq
And installed with easy access from all sides, not tucked somewhere under the stairs as an after thought.
Best in apart engine room, if boat is big enough. Other wise in the middle of the saloon, easily accessible and centralised and low placed weight aiding stability.
I put a tractor engine in my boat cheap parts
Could not agreed more!
Im allergic to motherboards and Bluetooth shit onboard. I hate it! I would add one thing to your comment, and that’s make sure it’s without a turbo as well. I have a Yanmar and it has served me very well. No issues of any sort for 7 years. But then again I have probably less hours on a ten year yacht than many have after a year. Only 1600 engine hours to date.
However I have met many with turbo problems. And as you correct highlight, electric challenges. My generator is a prime example of what to not have.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here
@@andypdq
I like simplicity of the old slow rev, engines, like Sabb, Bukh, Gardner, Detroit diesel.....
Don't forget that for 99.99% of the sailing channels on UA-cam, 30 knots of wind is a storm or 5 metre waves a monster! Thanks for sharing.
True but this is also related to what most channels have been sailing. This is the purpose of my illustrations with the waves showing how perspective changes depending on what angles you observe it from. What feels like a storm in a 35 is a nice sunny day out sailing a 55
Thank you so much for being here🙏🏻
@@SailingwithThomas So you think that sailing in less than 50 feet is foolish?
@@captainjimolchs I think Thomas has stated quite clearly it’s whatever you & your equipment is up to within a margin of safety.
@@will5989 But his comment compared 55 to 30. Is he saying that he needs more to feel comfortable?
@@captainjimolchs No, I think he’s simply stating that a larger boat literally provides greater comfort and safety in larger seas. Of course I can’t read his mind, but at least to me, that seems to be the point he’s making.
I appreciate your honesty- and agree. My current vessel has a wind generator, water generator and a great Volvo diesel. The rib has a two stroke engine so I can lift it when required. My supplementary power is used to keep my batteries charged when I am away and at anchor- if conditions permit! You have a great channel Thomas!
Thomas, thanks, all good points. Though I think they apply more to larger boats, like yours, than smaller more easily sailed boats, where an engine is a significant load and there is no way you can carry sufficient fuel to motor hundreds of miles.
That said,
How to sail oceans is one of my favourite channels.
No engine…gaff rig…..lots of skill.
I am of the view that in a sailing boat you first learn sailing skills, how to manoeuvre, anchor etc in all conditions, under sail.
Otherwise you are a motor sailor, as most are.
When you watch so many UA-cam sailing channels folk end up on very expensive complicated boats, and spend more time fixing stuff than sailing. They even rely on electric winches to operate sails etc.
Ask yourself what happens when you are hit by an electric storm which takes all your electrics out.
Be prepared, as advised by Emerald Steel, always anchor with a double reefed main, so you can sail out of trouble.
Sure if you have the cash, (and a big boat) get a brand new Yanmar inboard. That said I think hybrid, electric propulsion with a diesel generator will be the future for larger boats, with freezers, dishwashers etc.
..but I have to admit for the sailing I do a motor is pretty much essential. I am 10 miles up a Scottish loch with two tidal gates.
On small boats, engines are always smelly, noisy and intrusive. I do like the idea of a smooth quiet electric motor, being able to make even a couple of knots on a calm summer day. I do hear of sailors who have converted to all electric and cruise extensively and are happy with their choice.
Thank you so much for watching and for taking your time to share your opinions.
My yacht can be sailed without any electricity. It is even something I have tried.
Even though it’s a 55 I even often sail in and out of anchorage without using engine. I’m even enjoying my time offshore so much I really don’t care if I go so slow it add several days, knowing if I start the engine I arrive at sunrise.
This video is not about size, cash or preferences. It’s solely about safety.
All the best
Great episode! Before I bought my bav46e I dreamed of an all electric system while drunk on green cool aid. After crewing on a boat that needed to out run a storm, I got it. Several times my Volvo/Penta has compensated for my navigational and weather forecasting opportunities.
Perhaps those perusing hybrid systems will have better luck. I like the regenerative aspect of an electric motor. From a safety perspective if you’re doing longer trips where the weather forecasts are less accurate, diesel is critical.
Best seamanship channel on you tube.
Thank you.
This is all about risk Thomas. It is not just in the sailing environment where some people don’t carry what I call “common sense insurance.” The people in life who tend to make sure that the cards are stacked in their favour might not have the most exciting or dramatic stories, but they tend to live to tell their stories. Having options is what it is all about.
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your wise words 🙏🏻
All the best
Sensible words, 👍🇬🇧 I cringe when I watch some channels
Redundancies
We've all watched old sailors adeptly bring engineless sailboats into a slip, but prudent sailing is about stacking the deck in your favor when possible. A sudden, unpredicted wind shift could always find you being washed toward a rocky lee shore. If you can't afford an engine, that's one thing; if you can and don't choose to, that's nuts IMHO.
Well said!
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻
@stanislavkostarnov2157 thank you so much for watching and sharing your interesting experience as well. All the best
Tomas you always have are safety in mind!
Good on you for being honest!
❤ from 🇨🇦 BC
Thank you so much!
Im really happy you enjoyed this video as well.
Your support is much appreciated
The first German single-handed circumnavigator, Wilfried Erdmann, sailed around the world several times without an engine. It was not until 2015 (at an advanced age) that he treated his ship 'Kathena Nui' to a 14 hp engine.
I’m happy to hear he has made it safely around!
Thank you so much for watching 🙏🏻
Dear Thomas, as someone who normally sails backwards while drunk, I can concur that getting around the world without an engine is harder than talking Mermaids into giving you a tow. That normally takes at least three magical green drinks. Each. I don't know about petrol outboard engines though. I rode my motorcycle into a lake once and it stopped working almost immediately. But maybe that's just my bad luck. Did I tell you that I've sailed around Cape Horn NO times at all and that time I was blown inside out? But, I'm sure I could travel the world without an engine if I could only learn how to untie the boat from the marina. However, I can get a litre of beer for only $4.00 at the club bar so why would I ? Congratulations on another fine episode. Cheers....
Ha ha😆👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Love your humor and thank you so much for being here!
It’s obvious you actually watched this video 🙏🏻
Enjoy the cold ones and have a great weekend 🍻
@@SailingwithThomas ..I watch all your videos in detail. I find them to be not only informative in a transparent manner but I enjoy the humour as well. I don't actually sail anymore as I'm too old and lazy but I do enjoy living vicariously through your videos. Belgium also has 300 types of beer so why would I move ? Glad that you liked my post. Cheers, Louisa.
I have a fully electric sailboat built in 2007. Lagoon 420 Hybrid. I have been full time for 2.5 years and put almost 10,000 nm under the keel. It does have some limitations, but it also has massively increased range over standard diesel boats. Most sailboats have enough fuel for 4-8 days of motoring. My boat can motor for 30-40 days before refueling. Having a good generator is very important for a reliable hybrid system. It is a 21.5 kw Onan. I only need to run the generator for 3 to 6 hours per day to keep the batteries charged, depending on my motoring speed. I can also recharge my batteries with my 4 kw solar array or through regeneration while sailing. It is very rare that I need to motor for more than a few days without being able to raise the sails.
I do have a tender with a 40 hp petrol motor. I also have a back up dinghy with an electric motor.
Run my generator from 3 to 6 hrs per day,you are kidding yourself 😂😂😂😂😂😂
@ it’s true. I only need to run my generator for 3-6 hours for every 24 hours of motoring. I have 2 electric motors and each one has a 72v, 280ah battery bank. 3 knots draws 11 amps. 4 knots of speed requires about 20 amps. 5 knots uses about 30 amps of draw. My top speed is 7 knots, but anything over 5 is not efficient for long periods.
@@RobertBinedell Modern electric solutions are fine. BUT your boat must be big enough to house enough solar and a decent generator. The energy density of modern batterys is growing by the day. Only caveat is: don't use car batterys for that, that could be a deadly mistake. For small boats all of this doesn't work (yet).
@@MrJoelkamins 72V, never heard of such voltage. Can't you get shocked at this tension? Isn't that a bit dangerous.. Like, salty water on the bilge etc.? Very interesting to read about your numbers. How do you say maintaining your generator compares with a normal propulsion engine? In terms of how much trouble it gives you.
@@tiagorinckcaveden4114 72v is an efficient voltage for marine propulsion. There are multiple motor options at this voltage. Its really not more dangerous than a 48v system. I have not had any major problems with the generator. The impeller has failed once, and the belt twice. I keep spares on the boat. Otherwise I just do a regular servicing every 6 months or 250 hours. Shaft drives, so no sail drives to service either. This system requires much less maintenance than 2x diesel propulsion engines plus a generator. The technology has finally caught up with the intentions of green efficiency. I am sure that these systems will be commonplace in 10 years.
Every time someone tells me Joshua Slocum sailed around the world with no engine I also point out that if you read his book he took many tows and he went missing .
Not to mention that it was 120 years ago and he was on a shoestring budget. I don't even know if you could fit a small craft with an engine when he first set sail, let alone if you could refuel it at many ports. Crikey, the guy's clock didn't even keep good time. He's still a legend though!
Thank you so much for watching and for your great comment. I could not agree more.
Thank you so much for being here 🙏🏻
True, and Vos, in Tillicum, around the same time. Then of course, the Pardys, more recently in two engineless, self built boats, Talesin being one of them.
@davidbrayshaw3529 Slocum was the captain of the last engine less sailing cargo ship. A huge beautiful sailing vessel that under Slocum's command ended up on the rocks on the Atlantic side of South America. The last engine less sailing cargo ship that actually circled the world ended up on the rocks. Slocum used lumber from the wreckage to build a narrow 30ff long canoe style sailing vessel and took his wife and kids home on the New England coast. His family refused to be involved in sailing plus with the last sailing cargo ship wrecked there would be no more ships for Slocum to command. If didn't help that prior to the ship being destroyed there was a mutiny on board and Slocum was forced to shoot dead the most aggressive mutinieer. Legal but not a connon action to take at that time. Slocums decision to circumnavigate was in part based on the fact he would never have another command. Slocum had a base of knowledge and level of Seamanship that even in those days was elite and compared to modern sailors Slocum had so much knowledge and skill There are few today that could pull of such an adventure using just the equipment he had. I do think if they made compact reliable motors in his day and he could have got one for free he probably would have accepted it. When he decided to build his boat for the journey he found a property that had an old oyster boat rotting away on stands. He got permission from the land owner to build a copy of that boat with timber from the trees on that land. Slocum used a log as his keel and took and copied each piece of the old ship with new wood until the oyster boat was taken apart and the new boat was finished. He built it out of green wood like the French navy did. Imagine how much work that would be for one person. Slocums capacity as sailer and boat builder was exceptional. Building a boat by yourself like that requires knowing every trick prior to attempting. Slocum did not disappear he was struck broad side by a steam ship. The captain was terribly upset he saw it was Slocums boat just prior to striking it and the stayed for hours hoping to rescue him or at least recover the body there were just shattered planking floating about. It was such a tragic end to such an amazing man the lie that he disappeared was spread as a way of safe guarding Slocums life story and to keep the captain of the ship who killed him from being the captain that killed Slocum. Comparing Slocum to modern sailors does not make sense his abilities where far more than sailors living today.
@@faircompetition1203 I'd rather live Slocum's experiences than breathe diesel fumes. I think there's too many people who think that a 50 hp Yanmar on their mini condo on the water is the life. The only thing they need is a drive thru McDonald on the water. God help us.
Love watching wise men share their knowledge of reality. Hope your channel sails for more to see
I live on my boat 7 months of the year and sail 3-4k nm every season. I put about ~100 hours on the diesel engine, for safety at sea and maneuvering in anchorages/marinas. Even though the engine is one of the most critical systems on the boat maintenance wise, I rarely use it and sail into and out of anchorages/mooring fields as much as possible. I'd rather try to do everything under sail than rely on the engine, but realize having auxiliary propulsion is about keeping yourself and others safe. Every season, there are situations that arise where an engine is the difference between having a good or a bad day.
Totally agree!!!
No matter how skilled a sailer/yachty one is, there will be a situation one day that the engine SAVES the day… avoids damage to your boat and/or someone else’s property… not to mention rescuing crew and vessel from a lee shore…
If only we could ask the one’s sailing the seven seas in the old days….. by sail and I mean by sail only, because there were’nt any engines….
I’ld be surprised If they, looking at what we’ve got available for little money now and here, would tell you to stick just to sails for propulsion…
Realising the reliability of marine engines of these days they would surely suggest to forget about sails altogether….
If you have an engine, you should use it. It will last much longer.
Diesel engines like to work under load. They suffer more from prolonged periods of inactivity, and / or being used just for 20 minutes or so, to get out of slip. That means that they can't reach working temperature and always working cold, with poor lubrication. Oil needs to get warm and reach every where.
Good to see a Real experienced sailor give the Real facts.
Thank you so much for watching and your kind words 🙏🏻
For the reasons you have given I've gone for 2 electric outboards (2 x 10hp) for my 43 foot catamaran..
I'm replacing an old unreliable 30hp diesel with sail drive with a new 30hp diesel. It's for all of those serious safety situations. It has 125A alternator which will be useful for charging the 30kWh combineed 12V and 48V batteries. I have 3kW of solar to put all over my decks to speed up charging in those no wind times.
While it's twice the engine hardware. It does have the advantage of the best of both worlds.
both worlds are the best worlds. Out of fuel, electric! Electric gone stupid? Old reliable diesel. Both are down? :v set sail! sail is down? It was great effort and you go down with no regrets
Not long ago a fully electric ocean crosser failed and the two on board did not survive. Its a danger for one self and others to make such a lethal misstake. Hopefully this videos that tells the truth, will save lives, so thank you. May the wind be favorable and the sky blue. Best wishes Kristiansand 👋🌟✨️😊
I am not a sailor but enjoy your videos. You have a clear mindset with good reasoning and display the attributes of an excellent sailor. I am an ex seafarer then ex offshore Marine Pilot and I was always vigilant in my job and had a back up plan in case an emergency arose. Unfortunately there are some Captains of ship's who rely too much on luck and do not prepare for the unexpected, like some sailors.
Safe sailing.
Cheers from Durban, South Africa
⛵️
I like the way you share your experiences with much common sense. Our 1978 DownEast carriers 100 gallons of diesel and uses about 2 liters an hour at 1800rpm. We only need to refuel every 3-4 months as long as we don’t mind going 3-4 knots😛 But if we need it to run in no wind or really bad weather or get in an out of marina with current we have it as backup for our safety and know it is always an option. Having options can be a lifesaver in ocean conditions. Keep up the great videos, I always learn something from them- thank you!
Let it bee known,
If safety is expensive,
Try an accident....
Good attitude Thomas!
Calm Seas. 😊
True words!!!
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻
'... just because it's possible does not mean it's intelligent....', profoundly wise words...🙏💯⚓⛵🌟🏆👍😀
Not wise but an opinion
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻 It’s evidence based science. Not opinions some would claim.
I have worked with preparedness and risk management. This was one of the takeaways from my former carrier.
All the best
Thanks for sharing your experience with us, please don’t hesitate to do so
Well, my father and his woman sailed across the pond and spent over two years onboard before returning, and they had an electric engine. They swear by it, and would never ever return to a diesel. They say: real sailors only need the engine when mucking about in the marina, if even that.
Half of the points you bring up is in practice: "I can't do this with an electric engine, but I can with diesel."
But you don't reflect on why you need to do these things in the first place.
Its like an ICE driver complaining that he can't do quick refills with an EV, while in reality he just needs to plan a little better so he doesn't need to refuel in 2min to make his day work.
In short, you need to be a better sailor, more intune with the sea, when you have an electric engine, and then its just fine.
Edit: And yes, they used only the electric engine.
Rather than saying, 'You need to be a better sailor, more in tune with the sea, when you have an electric engine,' it would more accurate to say, 'It is possible to sail with only an electric engine if the scope of your sailing is carefully tuned and limited so that it can work.'
Your argument will have a greater influence upon me when an electric-only boat goes through the North West Passage. As with most things, it's horses for courses. 🙂
@notaseriousbeaver
Thank you so much for watching. I am happy to know your father is safe and sound after his sailing adventure. But I don't agree with your statement, It's like saying a great sailor can ignore safety because he is a great sailor. Many sailors have successfully crossed the Atlantic without life rafts, EPIRB, sat phones, etc. But it does not mean they are great sailors. I am definitely not saying your father is not a great sailor, only do not support your conclusion.
Crossing the Atlantic during the right seasons is actually quite easy. In Asia, you will experience a different ballgame. Extreme distances lots of strong ocean currents combined with 6 months of no wind, and some months with either no wind or cyclone-force winds. I would say only having the capacity equal in/out marina would come to short pretty fast.
My new neighbor is a very good sailor, having sailed full time for the last 15 years full circle and halfway again. He managed to make it back here without his mast after losing it 500 nautical miles away. I would say that a real sailor understands and makes sure to be prepared for what can happen, and act accordingly. His strong diesel engine and sufficient amount of diesel was a lifesaver. And in this region, you can not expect any Search And Rescue resources to assist you. You are on your own.
@@SailingwithThomas As more new boat designs incorporate electric technology the diesel will slowly disappear. Will probably take another fifty to one hundred years.
Thomas love your channel from Ireland. YOUR Straight talking, highly experienced opinions are a pleasure to listen to. NOT Salesman Bull.S.... , or making videos that will do well on UA-cam etc.., you do videos with REAL Information. LOVE It !!!!!!! . Great video. AN IDEA for future video to carry on from this video, do a video on ''Distant Shores'' new Hybrid boat , nice boat, experienced sailors, (also a little selling their product) sure they are so big they got a big deal for exposure to the boat brand, but also being such experienced sailors are videoing a good boat (dare i say selling) a good boat brand. Would love your honest take on their new boat, and MORE about their HYBRID ENGINE. Thank Thomas for your channel.
Thank you Thomas
A lot of work you done in this with with this great simple to understand illustration and a clear personal opinion. Wish you all the best and hope to see you somewhere around the world.
Thank you so much for your kind comment and for being here! Very much appreciated 🙏🏻
Thanks again, for your honest point of view.
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind comment 🙏🏻
thank you sooooo much for the education. we need to hear the truth!!! Some will make their decision but at leadt you have gone to the trouble to try to educate. Fantastic video Thomas thank you so much and keep this kind coming. Be safe
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words 🙏🏻 Safety is nothing to play with. I’m not gonna talk people out of doing things, that’s not my mission in life. But if I can contribute to see things from different perspectives helping to question things it’s something good. At least that’s what I believe in.
But some things are for a fact, and offshore you are left alone. My Diesel engine also double as a powerful bilge pump that can run nonstop for 10 days. In most cases this would been sufficient to stay afloat and either make repairs or reach land.
Thank you so much for being here
Great video!! Proper sailing channel!!
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind comment, I'm happy you enjoyed the video.
Good show Thomas, thanks.
Ontario, Canada.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here 🙏🏻
I fully agree with you about the beard, Thomas, but your track record is more than enough evidence your opinion does not fall out of the sky, at least that’s my opinion! Keep up the good work! 😂
HA HA😆👍🏻
Thank you so much for watching and your support 🙏🏻
Your videos are getting better and better Thomas. You are putting a lot of effort. I really hope your channel will grow even more. Thank you for your expertise and honesty, and for this video as well. Fair winds.
Thank you so much for watching and your kind words. Yes videos like this takes a ridiculous amount of time to make, and I often feel the challenge where to draw the line in details and information. So I am very thankful to see its appreciated. Thank you
@@SailingwithThomas Making videos my self I pretty much know the amount of time taking. Thank you for doing that. Maybe the reward will be big, carry on!
@MikeSantis Thank you so much 🙏🏻 Then you know the amount of hours needed for such videos more than most people
@@SailingwithThomas you can bet I know and my appreciation is huge.
Your are so right. I live on Cape cod
And sometimes i could not make any progress to windward with the current against me. I have to go over a shalow bar to get into the harbor. I have lightly run aground but thanx to my engine. I have been able to spin around. and escape the situation.
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your experience as well🙏🏻
Thanks for the illustrations and the storm overview at 16:52 . Haven't seen that before so compressed and complete 🗯
Thank you so much 🙏🏻
I made that illustration for a video about how to understand weather and to best plan your circle navigation. Might have to finish that video one day
100% agree with you thomas. Even if electric boat had the range, the cost and complexity doesn't make sense compared to a reliable diesel marine engine. Like you say normally not much diesel is used each year on a sailboat but it is important to have the ability to motor a when it's needed
Thank you so much for watching and for your comment 🙏🏻
It makes absolutely no sense with hybrid either, if you take the added complexity and extreme costs for average sailor. You will never be able to defend such investment.
All the best
@@drewmillerful *Never mind the weight of the batteries you carry around on each & every voyage.
I have a small boat with a tiny cabin. I use it to coastal cruise. I have battery electric and a small 25 pound generator to charge with or run the motor direct with. Reason i go with this setup vs a outboard is simplicity and reliability. My gen is significantly easier to remove the carb and clean in a pinch. It can be done before every outing in 10 minutes. The electric motor requires no more maintenance than a fresh water rinse. I turn it on it goes everytime. My range with just battery is around 30 plus miles, which is the extent of my travel most days. It could go further but thats the farthest i have went with 60% left on the guage. So probably 60 miles give or take. I agree with you on everything. Unless it was a very large diesel electric ship i wouldnt be cruising across oceans. Given my boat is 21ft i know nothing of that world and have enough to explore in my neighborhood to last a lifetime. If i had the dream to sail around the world it would be on a very large boat beyond my financial reach. Maybe if i sold my house and land but thats a hard no for me. So for me electric coastal cruising with occasional gen power for quick charging.
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your experience! For your kind of use I’m sure it’s perfect.
Thank you so much for being here
I'd love to know more about the motor setup.
Really love your Scandinavian no nonsense approach! Bravo Thomas!❤
Thank you so much! Im really happy you enjoy this video, and thank you so much for being here
I sailed the USVI for several years without an engine. Reason no money to replace the old Atomic 4. After two years installed a Kubota 3 cylinder diesel, worth the wait. Admittedly the Caribbean has very dependable trades.Made me a much better sailor.
You also didn't mention that most of the UA-camrs are not competent sailors. Usually RVers who buy boats. Thanks for this series Thomas. Legend
excellent advice
Thank you so much for watching 🙏🏻
Great Video👍 You are absolutely right. Thank you
Hello Thomas! My long time hero is Kevin from How To Sail Oceans. And you are Norwegian! I'm sure you work for an oil company!!! Haha, joke aside. Thank you for shedding light on these things. I wanted to go full electric, and you have made it clear that I can concentrate on other things. Thanks Again.
Ha ha! Great comment!
As a Norwegian I support oil because it is one of the key elements for making sails, fiberglass, carbon fiber, anti fouling, paint and basically everything onboard a yacht. Not to forget all the gas we ship to various nations helping them to power their green cars 😆
I belive many are giving a totally wrong image of diesel engines in sail boats. The questions is how old are those boats that has this unreliable problematic engines they compare with electric. Its the twin rudder discussion all over again. Influencers with 50 years old boats telling a diesel engine is trouble.....
My engine use very little diesel, have run flawlessly since new and all I do is change oil, filter and impeller.
It is for most sailors with old boats cheaper to replace the engine with a brand new one. The CO2eq is also interesting calculation here.
Fair winds
@@SailingwithThomas Thank you for taking the time answering. 🙏
I saw a wonderful little film of a Folkboat with electric motor on a short passage where they had to run a noisy petrol generator and eventually change course and put in somewhere way off the intended route to get more petrol!!
This is the reality for every single “fully electric” I have met on my way. If they showed it they where at least transparent 👍🏻
Thank you so much for watching 🙏🏻
@@SailingwithThomas I remember _Uma_ having to put their noisy generator on the foredeck to try and avoid the noise and fumes when they were struggling to make headway!!
I got stranded in the Gulf of Mexico having refueled in _Cozumel_ and being sold contaminated diesel after we refused to pay a bribe - that was bad enough! _CHEERS!_
It's what I do minus I bring enough fuel for the gen. I only coastal cruise though. And with 30plus miles on battery alone I have never ended up needing rescue or visited the margins. Even after doing a 30-mile run, I still had 60% on the batteries at full power. I'm a small 21-foot boat, though.
As someone new to sailing, I appreciate your insight.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻
Hello Thomas, you have once again done a very instructive video! Who knows how many lives, boats and egos this will save? I never considered moving my boat if there was an engine less one near me. You’re experience through observation are very welcoming! Thanks SV Skoiern lV
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words!
If I manage to point sailors in some directions for independent thinking and broaden perspective I am very happy.
That battery bank is a fire waiting to sink your boat my friend
Thank you, Thomas
Thank you so much for watching and for being here
I agree a good adequate engine is important especially at anchor or docked . I was on my boat during a hurricane at dock and had the engine running and in forward to keep it centered in the slip .
Note to self, ... don't get drunk on the green magical drinks....😂😂😂😂😂...great sense of humor Thomas....
You know you can’t sail properly without a good rum punch! 🍹The green stuff just makes you…. Oh well you know 😆 Thank you for watching 🙏🏻
i only have a 26ft boat, but a good diesel engine and a oversized anchor are safty for me.
It’s basic sailing safety 101! Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻
Hi Thomas, have you ever made a video regarding Hydrovane or similar systems? (I cannot see any but just in case). If not, what is your opinion on those systems? Thanks a lot,
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻 I have not yet made a dedicated video about Wind vanes, but have a project lying in my drawer. I might put it together soon.
I believe modern sailors with modern yachts should not waste money on it as a short answer. Many will argue, but it’s the twin rudder discussion full of myths and sales arguments all over again. It for sure needs to be highlighted and explained.
@@SailingwithThomas Thanks a lot Thomas, you're a gentleman, it's great to have such publicly available support with less than 24-hour turnaround :) I put in my 2 cents in case it could help anyone (and as you always say, this is applicable to my case, somebody else's case may be different). I want to have full redundancy for my upcoming crossing, so I started looking at different systems. As far as I understand, all systems other than Hydrovane make use of your own boat's rudder so yes you would be covered if your autopilot fails but not if your rudder fails / gets broken. Hydrovane has the advantage of giving "full redundancy" as it comes with its own rudder but if you lose you boat's rudder due to an impact etc, it's reasonable to think that the same unidentified floating object will also impact your hydrovane. It's not a sure thing but if it happens I wouldn't be surprised. So actually a full redundancy consists in an independent emergency rudder that you can install after the event, I have designed such a system and will have it fabricated. Yes, it will not be perfect and it will not be an autopilot but it will give me a rudder for five percent of Hydrovane's cost. Then on the autopilot side I have bought the critical spares to repair the system (assuming my boat's rudder is still functional) and this has also costed roughly thirty percent of a Hydrovane system. So all in all, my setup still has vulnerabilities (which one doesn't have?) but I'm happy with it as it is. Thanks again for your help,
Sorry folks, just discovered the benefits of using a drogue for the same purpose and it's much less hassle & same performance as an emergency rudder if properly rigged up so this is the option I'll go with.
The iron jib (engine), can get you out of ugly situations.
Yes it’s hard to argue against this fact! Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻
Good seamanship will keep you out of them.
@@captainjimolchs "Good seamanship" doesn't save you from a spontaneous rig failure (they happen, most often at the worst time), or any other type of unforeseen mechanical malfunction or accident, for that matter.
@@falkpatt People who have no engine are prepared to deal with these things. They are more competent than th9se who feel helpless without one. Get one if you want. Don 't tell the rest of us what to do.
Hey Thomas. Another honest and straight talking video. Thank you muchly.
I watched a video the other day saying that roller furlers are dangerous……I noticed you have a twin sail, solent rig……any chance you could share your experience of your chosen rig?
Murky buckets (merci beaucoup) 😂
Thank you so much for your funny comment and for being here🙏🏻
Furler, no furler is like autopilot vs wind vane.
No solution is bulletproof, and it mostly comes down to maintenance. I believe you will get as many different answers as people you ask.
It is impossible to place all similar solutions in the same box, furling is not just furling. I have had both and many miles with both solutions. Even with rotating inside the boom. From a solo sailors perspective I still believe a furling sail is the best. I have furling Genoa and furling Genaker. My main sail is not.
Honestly I have no strong opinions in any directions here because it’s end of the day more preferences that anything else.
If it’s poorly maintained it can create more trouble with a furling, so the other solutions are more forgiving.
Thank you for being here
Fully agree. I would like to expand on this though. Sailors should still rehearse (while the weather is favourable) maneuvers like anchoring and MOB without a motor just in case the need arises. In my 30 years of sailing I have learned the motor will run reliably until it suddenly decides not to anymore.
100 percent support this comment! Thank you so much for pointing it out for those not watching this video to the end.
Thank you for being here!
I had a Tartan 34 with 1000 watt solar and 10kw Elco motor. We cruised the Gulf coast of Florida. Definitely tricky. Battery technology is barely starting to make it feasible, but another few years I think it will be more doable. But it is awesome to never have to go to a marina.
I believe in some parts of the world it can make sense for costal cruising. But in Asia it’s not much sunshine now, and no wind either. I barely manage my daily use of computer and domestic consumption now.
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing 🙏🏻
Just subscribed to your channel, love your style 😊 Totally agree and I would go as far as to say that even hybrid systems do not make sense even from an enviromental perspective, let alone all the compromises you have to make (system complexity, added weight, reliability, lower performance, how do you get things fixed remotely). I did not know about the Panama Canal min speed requirement. Learnt something new and have never heard anyone else mention this
Thanks for the feedback and glad you enjoyed the video! The Panama Canal is a good example of what I'm talking about, regulations are quite strict and can be impossible to follow when you are limited to only sailing. I'm not trying to talk people out of following their dreams, only trying to help their dreams to become more realistic and hopefully safer.
The hybrid solutions were not a topic here because many struggle to separate this from the "fully electric" nonsense.
But totally agree with you a modern serial hybrid makes absolutely no sense for the average sailor. It's an incredibly expensive alternative to something that's working. The benefit such a complex solution brings to the table can not defend the added costs, nor the footprint in total CO2eq if people want to be honest.
In my opinion, hybrid solutions are the fast track to keep ordinary sailors off the market to buy a new yacht. Who wants to buy something costing 100K more with extremely small benefits besides the illusion of going green?
In my humble opinion,n it can not defend its place, and it is experiential tech for those enjoying this. But when it comes to offshore sailing you want more reliable and simple solutions. But hey if people can afford it and want to play with the newest tech why not.
Maybe this is why an engine on a sailboat is referred to as "auxiliary" engine. I couldn't even imagine island hoping without an engine. Great video.
Thank you so much for watching and for your comment as well 🙏🏻
Where I am right now there is long distance between some islands, zero wind and 5-7 knots at the peak. Even with engine good planning pays off around here. And right now begging of the raining season and the charging effect has dropped with 30% per week.
Thank you for being here
@@SailingwithThomas I meant to add that even motor sailing will be impossible without the engine, and drifting is not an option. Fair winds.
@javacup912 True words 🙏🏻
Great topic. Awesome graphics. I agree with you about most topics!!!!⛵🎉⛵
Thank you so much for watching and for being here 🙏🏻
Hi Tom is it worth getting a hand crank diesel engine just in case you lose electric power.love your content I just subscribed and looking at your videos alot you have alot of experience.😊
This video just makes sense! Thank you!
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻
Great video and an honest appraisal. Where is the world going to get rid of the lithium battery when it expires. That will be a challenge for future generations.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here.
It’s quite interesting discussion on the side of this videos core message, but if people are so green they wanna go electric they should not be on a boat to start with. It’s so much chemicals and minerals involved, not to forget thousands of kilos of petroleum products made into a floating home.
To me this is not very logical.
I am aware of the impact and try to leave as small footprints as possible.
But if people started to do some serious calculations on CO2eq a fully electric are loosing big time towards a traditional Diesel engine on a yacht. Even if only spread out over 10 years, even worse if stretched to 20.
Only my solar panels alone takes 7-10 years to become CO2eq neutral. It’s totally on the side, so I apologize for the long reply. Nevertheless it’s a side of the game rarely discussed. I’m totally not against trying to be as sustainable as possible.
All the best ⛵️
@ I have a big diesel guzzling generator onboard with an electric stove old fashioned batteries and no solar panels. Whilst I will probably put some solar onboard soon. The cost analysis for replacing all the batteries with lithium and solar is outrageous compared to the cost of running a large generator. It’s an interesting concept as we look to more beneficial and cost saving ways to manage power and keep the impact on the planet as small as possible.
Emotionally and philosophically I would love to choose the greenest solution that I can.
However, we have just experienced the dilemma of a diesel fuel pump that has failed . That removes the engine from our equation.
A mate jokingly said it is a sailing boat, just turn left at the river mouth and sail home. We are in a river which has a very strong tidal flow and it’s risky to try crossing the bar with only sails.
Instead, we have so far used the engine as little as possible. And we intend to continue that way.
We don’t plan to cross oceans, so carrying the couple of extra Jerry cans of fuel is probably ok.
Maybe one day we will try an electric outboard, but I don’t think we will get rid of the petrol one.
Try telling this to those two naive Canadians on Uma, coupla stunned fairies
Sadly there are many sailing channels out there trying to kill you. They are for sure high up on my list of dangerous sailing influencers. Thank you for watching
I think it also applies to day sailing or island hopping. Things break especially in heavy weather which because of its nature is unpredictable and can arrive ahead of forecast. One can also be becalmed where a turning tide can get you in trouble. Accidents also happen. Its putting lives at risk not to mention the boat. For me batteries and water do not mix and can even be a fire hazard.
Thank you for watching 🙏🏻 yes in today's busy waters it is definitely smart to have engine also for coastal sailing.
However the biggest argument in my opinion is for offshore sailing if your rig comes down. It's not always possible to jury rig and keep sailing. Some seem to forget it can be pretty rough out there, and you might even be short in time for the last 800 nautical miles before violent storms arrive. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and opinions as well, and for being here🙏🏻
We have a 25.6ft Nordic Folkboat - for racing in the Solent. We used to have a petrol honda outboard to get into and out of the marina. We had all sorts of dramas starting the honda and we replaced it with an electric outboard. Big mistake! The spring tides and a strong breeze means often we are stuck. The electric outboard is quiet and clean but it has no punch & my concern is that if we had to move out of the way for safety we couldn't if wind or tide against us (ferries, RIBs - Solent is too busy). Anyhow, i am getting too old to race and I am looking for a little day boat with a good solid diesel.
A Nordic folk boat ❤️
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and for being here🙏🏻
Your absolutely spot on! I once almost had a big motor yacht run me over in the Ionian Sea. I was doing 3 knots with my light wind sail.
If I had not turned on the engine and moved fast forward I would not been out sailing with BE FREE.
A 90 foot coming at 25 knots straight to me at open waters would been really bad.
I even hailed him on VHF before starting my engine to tell him I’m here. First after he had passed me with his yacht full of screaming people I managed to get in touch with him. He claimed I had to give place due to his size…. Oh well, another captain with a Disney world 200T license.
Grt insight. As toll man tim would say..."more power"! I'm not a lover of alternative power solutions. They come across as inadequate. And unreliable. They also create their own, negative environmental problems. But if you like them, no problem. 🤙
Agree 100% some like Uma and Beau & Brandy sailing have electric and have just been lucky on longer passages . When you have a range of under 40 KM . You do not have enough for currents and no wind. It affects how they sail as well
That's why they need a small gen. But then they would have to accept 100% electric isn't 100% safe. I have electric with a gen. Extremely reliable. And my range on battery alone is more than 30miles.
E good if you are a lake or bay sailor .If you sail less than your range away from the home dock of safety . Times I wish I had electric or a hybrid system as a back up. Just when you need to get out far enough to raise the sails
Thank you so much for watching and for being here.
A few jerry cans of petrol will not help much on a fully electric if dismasted in the middle of the ocean. Seeing the status and age of some of those boats I certainly agree they have been more than lucky. Sailing Aquarius lost both masts on their Amel, luckily sailors on the same route could pass over some diesel so they could make it safe to shore. I have seen a lot not only from my sailing, but also from my former job. Removing an important part of the safety equation is not very smart. It works until it doesn’t.
All the best
Awesome content, well presented! Thanks Thomas.
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind feedback as well!
Thank you for sharing your common sense views about sailing. UA-cam is full of terrible information about the subject of sailing, mostly from young inexperienced sailors with lots of hubris. Electric drive is an absolutely horrible idea and highly dangerous, not to mention costly and just flat out unnecessary...for anyone other than a casual daysailor. So is using raw dyneema or spectra for standing, not running rigging. Would love to hear your take in this in a video hahaha. There are tons of people preaching that its superior to stainless or rod rigging in every possible way (see riggingdoctor). Maybe it's because they're plugging products they got for free, but at the end of the day it's bad advice to tell people to do these types of modifications. Thank you for being a breath of fresh air in the sea of sailing B.S.😮 all over UA-cam.
You hit the nail on the head calling it a cult. Once a person has been convinced that total green systems exist nothing can persuade them otherwise. If your "green" car boat or whatever requires electricity its no green, that power has to come from somewhere.
Which can come from a fossil free source, like the sun or your own prop. This is not rocket science for gods sake.
And electric works, my father bet his life on it, and he returned after years just fine.
I got a 27 hp yanmar on my 32ft nicholson and a 15 hp 2 stroke yamaha for the dinghy which can also move the sailingboat if nessecary
Thomas, your channel has become one of my absolute favorites. You call it as you see it, and I have yet to find anything I don’t agree with. On the twin rudders I had a different opinion before your video, but realized that it was not based on any reality, after watching. As for this topic about the engines and the green dream, you are spot on. Unfortunately you are going to upset a lot of people who have bought into the green agenda, but please keep going and say it as you see it. It is a breath of fresh air!!!
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words! I for sure have stirred the pot this time but I believe its a good thing. I do not look so attractive in bikini so to get attention a bit provoking title seems to work just as well. This topic has proven to be overdue to highlight only looking at many of the comments here, so hopefully I have managed to point some in the right direction.
Thank you for your support
ok. my favorite sailing channel now. smart advice
Thank you so much for inspiring feedback and for being here🙏🏻
Which insurance company do you use? Just curious as to what plans they offer and at which costs 🙂
I sailed my Halcyon 27 over 3,000 miles with a broken engine. I was almost shipwrecked a number of times or rammed by big ships. Sailing without an engine may be stupid but it is very exciting!
I learned a lot. Thanks.
I am glad you learned something new, I hope it helps you make informed choices for your own sailing adventures!
Thank you for being here
That Tetris example was really funny especially the play again for double or nothing challenge.
Ha ha😆 Thank you so much 🙏🏻 It was a shitt show in one anchorage inspiring me to make this. Just unbelievable!
Thank you so much for watching and for being here
Thomas. One point I am not clear on. Do I need a generator? Can I not just use my diesel to recharge my batteries. It seems to be a better use of precious design fuel... recharging and moving the boat with same gallon of fuel. I do not plan to cross oceans but coastal cruising is in the future hopefully
Hi there, you definatly do not need a generator. Today you can have serious effective alternators that will provide you with the electricity you need. Also this comes with a cost though, and main reason why many bigger yachts have generator is sound and vibration is significant less than running your main engine. Also you save engine hours on your more expencive engine. At least when in bigger yachts. But yes I would say it is a huge advantage running generator from the same fuel system as your main engine. I have had lots of problems in the past with my generator before I found out what was wrong with it. So I do have a fair amount of experience being depended on a petrol generator. Very noicy and restricted in use due to either weather or the fact you dont wanna drive your neighbours nuts. Also the average portable petrol generators are not that powerful comared to a proper diesel generator. When running my generator I do lots of things simultaniously to save hours and fuel. I run watermaker and charge batteries whilst doing vacum cleaning and lots of other things. So it do have its benefits with a solid power on demand solution. And it doesent burn as much diesel either, and by far more fuel efficient than even 4 stroke petrol generators.
Thank you so much for being here
You would want to have 2 alternators on your engine both high capacity. Liquid cooled is definitely better. 😊 This is because your runs will probably be short and you want to get the maximum amount of Charge in a short time, this will also help with loading up your engine if you charge your batteries on anchor.
I carried 270 gallons of diesel fuel on my 46’ ketch. And that’s without jugs. Didn’t need jugs.
Epic! Most production yachts comes with to small diesel capacity in my opinion.
I am lucky having a big capacity, and also space in my tender garage to carry extra. I prefer to have the capacity of at least 50% of my passage by engine in case of emergency
@ I agree.
Thomas, very good sir.
It’s good to be appreciated, thank you so much for being here🙏🏻
Yachts need back up systems to propel it. Most yachts have diesel engines that can be used to help enter and exit small marina's or when the wind stops to get to their swing moorings or moorings I have seen electric motors driving prop shafts via a invertor this is a okay for short distance to propel the yacht in good weather conditions. The norm is 3,5hp per ton for yacht engine power it will cope in most storms. Boat design is also a factor. It may have a lot of windage so more power is needed 5 to 6 hp per ton. Plus your engine needs to be totally reliable. Don't need engine faulure at crucial moments the engine is also a brake to slow down and stop you have full control over your yacht.
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your experience 🙏🏻
I love this episode, well done...
Thank you so much 🙏🏻
I'd be curious to hear your opinion on in-mast furling versus a conventional main.
This is a question you will receive just as many different answers to as the people you ask. It for sure has some advantages and I do only have good experience with it. Sometimes I wish I had it. But for long distance solo sailor simple solutions are better, even though a furling is easier to sail with. But if it’s jammed you have a big challenge. I guess it’s just as many positive things as negative on both solutions.
End of the day maintenance is key.
Thank you so much for being here🙏🏻
@@SailingwithThomas Thanks man
An electric motor is suitable as a supplement to an existing diesel engine or engines but only without affecting their capabilities.
An electric motor will help save running hours of the main engines if its power and power source is sufficient. Even an ocean-going ship has to jump between islands sometimes
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your thoughts. Much appreciated 🙏🏻
I am often thankful for my volvo md1. Other times I curse the oily stinky thing. Overall, a very useful if not critical thing to fall back on. All that said, I would like an engineless sailing boat, small enough to be rowed, for coastal and creek exploration only.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻
Chris did a nice shout out for your channel! But by all means he is the most rudest dude on UA-cam. I’ve been watching him for a couple years.
I agree with this topic 100% you need a motor you nailed it with the safety issues
Thank you so much for watching, and for your comment. The shoutout for sure has given many new subscribers. For this I’m very thankful 🙏🏻
some people get away with it, as people have since antiquity, but things happen, you could die because you don't have one, I had a board get stuck, wind died, current picked up, drifted helplessly toward rocks. its easy to get into big trouble without one, that one would have saved you from and delivered you from. it can save your life.
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your experience. I’m pretty confident in the statement removing engine from the equation is 1 major safety element lost.
and those same people drive dingy without oars, and dont carry epirb and sailing sinkable boats yet swear the engine is more important for safety. In reality, a fast boat without an engine that can out sail weather systems is already safer than a slow one with an engine that cannot but the majority of people choose slow boats with engines that often break down.
Sailing has two main problems: 1) people with schedules 2) people on other boats. There's just not enough room or time to deal with dynamic conditions, boat traffic in anchorages, or Cap'n Rons who come in hot and are obviously ill-prepared. For an activity where it can feel as if one is at risk from dying of boredom, life threatening conditions can and do arise in a matter of seconds or a short number of minutes. Having a working engine there isn't just insurance, it's a necessity. Arguing for heading off engineless is like lobbying for a highway tour of the continental US in a 3 wheeled Reliant Robin.
Hi
What is your honest thought about having your 2 stroke outboard that literally pumps it's exhaust and lubricating oil out with the cooling water. Well mixed you use probably 50:1.
So every 50 gallons of outboard gasoline used you pump 1 gallon of oil into the world's oceans.
My honest thoughts about that is you then have a problem! Normally the symptoms your pointing at indicates serious failures or wear internal to the engine, such as excessively worn, valve guides, worn or broken piston rings, failed head gasket, etc.
So my take on this is that’s not good at all.
Thank you so much for watching
@@SailingwithThomas what?
I was asking about your two stroke outboard motor.
No valves there. Normal use with perfect functioning and running engine pumps oil into oceans.
Hola Thomas, Kudos for your videos, I love your experienced no bullshit style! Did you already do a video on hull materials? Apart from the one on aluminum and electric/hybrid engines.....
It is true, it seems truly foolish to me that a boat that, at least, 80% of its journey is made with the power of the wind. What can be more ecological than that?
Between the sailing channels, I also follow Delos and Brian, who is building the Delos 2.0 model, an aluminum catamaran that uses a large amount of electrical energy for motorization. It seemed strange to me that, with the experience gained, Brian would embark on an electric boat. However, I think it is more a question of sponsorship, which is not bad, since he promotes a well-known brand of lithium batteries, and it is a financial decision rather than a full conviction that this is the solution.
Your videos are excellent! A big hug from Venezuela. May God bless you always.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here🙏🏻
I belive your comment is spot on, and actually quite relevant for this topic and many similar discussions.
All the best
Brilliant!!
Thank you so much for watching 🙏🏻
I agree that AS YET electric systems aren't quite good enough for long-distance sailing, however that's going to change... quickly! Give it ten years and most vessels will have exclusively electric secondary drives, because they're more reliable than combustion engines, and don't require fuel that can vary in quality or even deteriorate in the holding tank. They are low-maintenance and vastly more efficient than combustion methods. The only thing holding pure e-drive back is on-site generation. but this is advancing steadily and, with the right developments, I'm certain it'll turn the corner very soon indeed.
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your visions for the future.
All the best
Nice video, good to hear common sense advice on safety management of the auxiliary engine. So much BS surrounding "green" boats. Good way to lose the boat, or your life, off a lee shore.
Thank you so much for watching and for being here! I for sure did stir the pot here but its good to create some discussions. All the best
On diesel inboards...If you have a medium size sailboat 26-32 ft, that sails well, not like one of the Condo Catamarans, you don't need an inboard. A 6-10hp outboard will do the job of getting you in an out of a marina and stop you drifting onto the rocks when the wind fails. And for the weekend warrior, it will get you home to your mooring in time for work on a Monday. Even Kevin on HTSO has the ability to put his dinghy outboard on his transom and motor out of trouble in a pinch. An inboard introduces thru-hulls which can fail if not maintained, and send you and your boat to the bottom - people are lazy and do not maintain their thru-hulls let alone their engine. If you are good on your maintenance of both diesel engine and thru-hulls then an inboard is a good idea. I see a few comments about Uma...anyone that takes their electric inboard fetish seriously needs their head read. They are good marketers those two, and pleasant enough people, and if you treat their channel as nothing but entertainment, then no harm done - but don't take their BS on electric sailing seriously.
I have been designing solar systems for 32 yrs in Africa and would not put to sea without a good diesel engine. no chance. The remote game lodges and islands we have have installed upto 150Kw all have diesel generators for the occasions of no sun or an issue with the solar plant.
Thanks for the real-world perspective, I think it really shines a light on the importance of reliable backup power. Also out at the big blue you are left alone.
Thank you so much for watching 🙏🏻
After doing a Atlantic circuit this year on my own boat with generator solar wind power, you are RIGHT! 100%!
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing your experience as well 🙏🏻
Much appreciated
How does the yarn go? "You haven't been cruising untill you have given the Pardey's a tow into port"
Ha ha😆 Well I have towed quite a few sailors, some with a UA-cam channel as well.
All I can say it’s often a bit of a distance from what you see to what’s the reality.
Cheers 🍻