Aground! Shallow Water Piloting in the Bahamas

Many of you have been asking why we love variable-draft Southerly Yachts. Afterall, we've owned three of the them throughout the 30 years we've been cruising. So in this latest video, we answer your questions, giving you our completely biased view on Southerlies :-) as we sail from the Turks and Caicos Islands to cruise the shallow seas of the Bahamas, before Hurricane Dorian hits. We sail in company with other 6 other Southerly Yacht owners and demonstrate the freedom the variable-draft keels give us to explore shoal-draft anchorages and bays that deeper draft yachts can't get gain access to. At the same time, we share our techniques for shallow-draft piloting in the islands, no matter what your boat draws. The Bahamas is one of our very favourite cruising grounds and in this video we show you why.
Chapters
00:00 Shallow Water Piloting in the Bahamas
07:31 Lifting the keel to beach the boat
12:53 Navigating Hog Cay Cut Exumas
18:18 Hurricane Dorian Update
Resources for cruising in the Bahamas:
distantshores.ca/bahamas.html
A summary of our cruises through the Bahamas over the years.
explorercharts.com/
“The Explorer Chartbooks are the best cruising guides we found and are used by most cruising sailors in the Bahamas.
distantshores.ca/sailingdvds/catalog/
HD downloads and DVDs of the many half-hour Distant Shores television programs we filmed about the Bahamas cruises we have made.
#sailing #sailinglife #bahamas #exumas #hurricanedorian #Southerly480 #offshore
Principal photography by Paul and Sheryl Shard.
Additional photograpy by Nick Gill.
Current Boat:
Southerly 480 by Discovery with variable-draft swing-keel
distantshores.ca/about-us/the-boats/distant-shores-3/
Discovery Yachts Group / Southerly Yachts:
discoveryyachtsgroup.com/
Equipment:
Brunton’s Propellers: www.bruntonspropellers.com/
Elvstrøm Sails: www.elvstromsails.com/
Epex Sail Technology: www.elvstromsails.com/epex/epex-technology
Seldén Mast / Furlex: www.seldenmast.com/
Lewmar: www.lewmar.com/
Raymarine: www.raymarine.com/
Scanstrut: www.scanstrut.com/
Navionics Charts: www.navionics.com/
GN Espace Ocean Chef: www.gn-espace.com/yacht-galley-equipment/marine-gas-cookers/ocean-chef/
Highfield Classic Inflatable: www.highfieldboats.com/
Honda Outboard: marine.honda.com/
Integrel On-Engine Generator: www.integrelmarine.com/
Ultra Anchor (35 kg): www.ultramarine-anchors.com/
Pantaenius Yacht Insurance: www.pantaenius-group.com/content/2808
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Get an introduction to the cruising life and join Paul and Sheryl on a leg of their Around the World voyage. Learn more about their Sail Away Weeks including the Southern Bahamas here:
distantshores.ca/sail-away/sail-away-introduction/
Gifts for Sailors! Own the whole Distant Shores collection:
All 130 full half-hour episodes of the Distant Shores Sailing Adventure TV series are available as a collectors set as HD downloads and also on DVD through the Distant Shores website. The Distant Shores DVD Super Pack box set includes both DVDs and bonus HD downloads. It is perfect for binge-watching and makes a great gift for the sailor in your life! Info and order here:
distantshores.ca/sailingdvds/catalog/
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You can also connect with us on:
FACEBOOK: DistantShoresTV/
INSTAGRAM: distantshorestv
TWITTER: DistantShoresTV
BUSINESS INQUIRIES: [e-mail]
Thank you for watching!
Sheryl and Paul

[@tomhaverstock512]

Please create a video outlining proper techniques for lightening protection for boats. Thank you for all the great content!

[@paisa26100]

A discussion on lightening protection would be much appreciated.

[@chrisryba6190]

Seconded.

[@jcregal3456]

Third

[@gotamd]

Agreed, this is one of the topics I don't see a lot of coverage on, but it's certainly important!

[@walterjohansen6507]

Another tally for sailboat lightning precautions please. Thanks!

[@heatherhodge1590]

Not sure what number I'd be on this, but add 1!

[@stilcrazychris]

That's why I love the boating community so much. They catch extra fish & then give it away to some one in need/wants. Great video, Chris from Missouri

[@johnlubimir1839]

We can confirm firsthand that lightning damage can be extensive, even with a properly grounded boat. Lightning will find its own path to ground despite your best efforts to the contrary. We were struck 10nm south of Nassau in April 2016 and it destroyed all the electronics on the boat as well as caused delamination of the carbon fiber at the top of the D2s. It exited the boat down the backstay and out the hydraulic backstay adjuster, despite having a lightning rod and 6AWG wire to ground. the only electronics which survived were the handheld items- iPad and handheld radio and GPS which were placed in the microwave. Charger, inverter, and all lights were fried. Fortunately, were were able to travel by day back to Stuart, FL where we replaced the mast, standing rigging and all the electronics. Months after repairs were completed and we had spent the summer cruising, we also required a replacement of the engine wiring harness and panel. It pays to have good insurance.

[@kayakur9124]

Lightning protection video would be great.

[@charlesgreen4240]

Love your videos. Schools should purchase your series. I'll bet few children have any idea of the earth seen from your point of view...

[@wilfdarr]

I've been watching them on Canadian TV since I was a kid. It's a big part of the reason I sail today!

[@DistantShoresTV]

LOL that's great Wilfred! Thanks for coming along with us on the journey!

[@dontraeger4325]

A lightning and ground for lightning video would be very much appreciated. This video was excellent!

[@billhanna8838]

I was sailing a 54 foot Van Disdat steel round bige yacht with a wooden mast & galvanised rigging in an electrical storm in Hawk bay NZ . A bolt came down directly above me hit the mast head then veird off & landed 3 meters away with a hell of a bang, load of steam ,No damage luckily just my underpants ,Oh by the way i was single handed , stayed in port for a couple of days after that.Love that shallow draft system , Amazing, Well engineered.

[@robertadamsmetaldetecting6324]

Always fantastic. As a future cruiser/ newbie sailor I would love to see a video on lightning protection for ⛵!

[@buzz-es]

Wow, love the versatility of that swing keel. Great stuff, thanks again, bring on the lightening protection.

[@DDixon3121]

Excellent video. I especially enjoy your narrations and the nautical charts included that clearly show the area you're sailing. Thank you! I am thoroughly impressed by the Southerly design and performance......maybe one will be my next sailboat!

[@andystanding2783]

It was a pleasure building both distant shores 3 and Kered, thank you Paul and sheryl for the videos I really enjoy seeing the boats used how they where intended.

[@ronhaskins7197]

As always an amazing presentation from start to finish. I honestly can't imagine how you could improve any aspect of your videos. Always love to see a new video from you guys, it is such a pleasant treat. Thank you, Capt Ron

[@michaeldouglas6872]

One of your best episodes, the footage is just awesome, also so much to gain from your detailed narrative in navigating parts of your passages and anchorages. Truly one of your best!

[@picadilly33]

I'd love to see a video on lightning protection. We were anchored right next to you in Marsh Harbour this spring! Didn't want to bother you, but we are long-time fans.

[@DistantShoresTV]

Hi Mary! Thanks for the kind words. Next time you see us PLEASE come over and say Hi :-)

[@Bubbajones007]

You guys are really improving your program, it is fantastic to watch you adapt and improve your channel, keep it up! probably the most knowledgable channel on the web, certainly the most experienced and fun to watch. thanks!

[@dustinlaborde4537]

Yes .. super technical lightning video would be amazingly awesome ...!!!!!

[@noahturner1508]

I saw all of the requests for a video on lightning protection so I thought I’d join in 😉. Hope y’all are ok. Absolutely love your videos

[@virustracker4840]

Have a wonderful trip!

[@jasonmart2656]

Wonderful work and videos. Calm well narrated and informative. As a commuter cruiser who has covered some of the same water it was a joy to view. Thank you so much. I’ve always admired Southerlies and this was an excellent reminder of why. Thank you.

[@GreatLakesGirl247]

Paul and Sheryl this video is fantastic!

[@ZoneTelevision]

I have to sail the Bahamas .. soon. The colors are just unrivaled. Great night photography. Excellent navigation techniques too. Thank you.

[@danconser6709]

Thanks for yet another video allowing us all to share in the beauty and provide some useful learning opportunities as well. Fare you well on your journeys together :-)

[@davidc6510]

Great information on the swing keel (variable-draft) Southerly Yachts. They look pretty cool! That cast iron cradle it sits looks super strong. Great video of veteran cruisers hanging out. To think you both were doing this some 24 years before it got real popular on You-Tube about 6 years ago is super cool. You are amazing. I also enjoyed watching the sailing tips by Patrick Childress on his channel. That old salty sea dawg and his lovely wife Rebecca have learned a thing or two these past 40+ years sailing as well. Look forward to watching more and seeing lessons learned from 30 years of cruising! Fair Winds Distant Shores.

[@professormoptop]

Y'all deserve more subscribers!!! Love the fish the easy way

[@perryhoward5064]

Absolutely love your footage , just beautiful !!!

[@jb9090]

Such a great boat... gives you so many more options and the ability to beach the boat is sure nice.

[@douglasvonfreund8945]

I love the look of the blue hull ! There both beautiful yachts my favorite .⛵⚓

[@philippevanhems1321]

Thank you for this nice video and all the explanations. You are very lucky. Happy to watch the next one. Best wishes for your next navigations.

[@brianstevens7241]

Did not realize you were doing original content on KZbin. Been waiting for the next season on TV. Just clicked the subscribe button.

[@onecheman]

Your videos are so lovely and instructive at same time! Im really happy to "come across you" =)

[@cliffjamerson3107]

Thanks for such great footage

[@mattinla98]

This was a really fantastic video. That is the most vibrantly colored water I've ever seen. And that lightning footage was spectacular as well. Keep up the great work Paul and Cheryl !!!

[@john47742]

Love the information in all your videos.

[@camdaman813]

thank you for this! New Providence, Bahamas here. Hope you enjoyed!

[@CanadianGrenadian]

This is one of the best sailing videos I have ever seen. Thanks for your talent and info you too rock 🐬

[@robbaker9241]

Great video of how you can beach your boat and lightning info. I have had unfortunately my fare share of lightning experience. My boat has been struck 5 times now by lightning over the past 35 years. And the funny thing is that they lightning never strikes twice. 🌩🌩😜

[@wilfdarr]

@@robbaker9241 The trick is to park your boat amongst taller boats. Obviously you are the richest person in your town and can afford to eat the lighting strikes 😉

[@srqlisa7881]

I watch a good amount of videos of cruising and each time I see the Bahamas waters colors it always blows me away. You had great skies for filming also. : ) peace

[@bowwave59]

Beautiful place. On the Bucket list definitely

[@mauriciocasella7449]

awesome footage!...tks for sharing.

[@widebluesky7611]

That's a cool boat, never heard of variable-draft until now. Well done video!

[@wilfdarr]

It's just what Southerly calls their swing keels. They are slick, don't get me wrong, probably best swing keel yachts in the world, but it's a marketing term, and not a 'real' term.

[@ThomasColeFZ]

Awesome video. Thank you.

[@wool2spin]

Yes, please discuss lightning protection!

[@viatormarine]

Great video again. Thanks.

[@jez987s]

Great very informative video.

[@erikandkate]

We love you guys ❤️

[@bradbusch9585]

Yes I would like to see the protection for lighting

[@12345fowler]

Beautifuly done. Congrat

[@jwrappuhn71]

Great vid ya'll.

[@thomascurran4323]

I'd like a video on grounding for lightning, if you have something. Thank you.

[@curtwpk1361]

My 32' S & S sloop was struck by lightning several times in the Chesapeake. It was well grounded and sustained no damage except for fried VHF. On one occasion near Thomas Point light, we were hit and my VHF antenna fell right into my lap.

[@doxies]

Amazing!

[@cateblackman]

Hi There Love the videos and yes we would love to see one about protection from lightening strikes. Cheers Cate and Pete

[@bobtookyt]

amazing night sky shot

[@Lou_Zasil]

just found the channel , great video production and content . Subscribed .

[@johndixon5097]

Great Video

[@bootrenovatie4526]

I’d like a video about lightning protection. Maybe you can then also cover how the standard brands like Bavaria and Jeanneau have implemented protection and what to do after a strike

[@maritimetees2315]

Loved the video.

[@ltjamescoopermason8685]

Definitely living the dream and to think in my youth I picked the army to become a tank jockey! Carry on guys getting me jealous.

[@ruswinterfel9888]

Well done. Thanks

[@simoncorporation3]

Haven't seen a clip from your channel for a while, this is quite nice, sadly the region you're in had so much devastation good to see the area is still beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

[@terryi8892]

Great parking spots you found !

[@timohan100]

I would love to see a video on how you protect DS III from lightning. I am in the midst of restoring my 42 year old Alden 44 and will be tackling the electrical system next spring. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Cheers!

[@jimhanson7476]

Beautiful...

[@ChrisMcEvoy]

Great video as usual. :)

[@1STGeneral]

Pinkies up now sip cheerio good show splendid way to wile away life thank you for documenting your journeys for those of us that are land locked and glad to know your safe

[@peterpocock9062]

I've subscribed to your very very informative vids. I love the way you share your knowledge. Yes, I would like to know more about grounding against lightning strikes on a yacht please. Well done.

[@markbailey6051]

Good job!

[@timclarke105]

Really, really helpful video. Thank you both once again. Just an extra point on hurricane damage on land. We had a family home in Grenada that was completely flattened by Hurricane Ivan in September 2004. After our insurance claim was settled, we decided to rebuild with a Deltec home which was reputed to be hurricane resistant, since they had not lost a single home to wind or storm surge damage in 40 years. If you know anyone who has lost their property due to Dorian, we strongly recommend looking at Deltec homes from Ashville, North Carolina. They have an excellent website which explains everything and has many videos, some of them showing recent damage in Abaco with a Deltec home still standing in a sea of devastation etc. It took us only 10 days to complete the build of our new house on a prepared concrete slab with the help of three local carpenters, a plumber and a tiler for the bathroom and kitchen final fixing. All the materials arrived pre-cut and ready to assemble in a 40ft container. It is a tough structure and beautiful. So happy with it so far. Tim and Mia Clarke

[@J30Vampire]

thank you for highlighting that the Bahamas will be open for business in November after storm season. we wont get there this year but we will be there soon. thanks to you we are really looking forward to it. we understand that its even better then Greece. so it has so work to do to live up to the hype. SV ICE BEAR

[@maddogmaz1576]

Love your boat

[@chriskirchner5094]

Just discovered your channel and am VERY intrigued by the boat (keel) - already started to investigate Southerly yachts a little more! Also excited to see your home waters are Lake Simcoe. We are new to sailing this year, our boat is at Whitby. Always nice to follow more Canadians sailing the world, all those crazy/shallow canals, and using those canoe arms!

[@stevediaz7324]

Great educational video. Like the features of the sailboat never heard of a retractible rudder till now. I believe you should do the video and in protecting one from lightning on the boat. Safe sailing guys 👍⛵😎

[@VERTICALWisdom]

Great video! Would love to see a video on lighting preparation. Great idea.

[@sargintrock2538]

Swing keel as an anchor. Good info!

[@wellcraft19]

But do note that it is for this specific type of vessel, designed for "beaching". Unsure if a "standard" swing keeled boat would behave as well and endure the stresses and wear as the Southerlys.

[@moriver3857]

I haven't had the experience of lightning but I'm getting my boat prepared since I hope to be in the Caribbean in two or three years. Beautiful boat, and love that keel. Fair winds

[@DistantShoresTV]

Thanks, Mo. Good to do all that you can for lightning protection on your boat.

[@EdwardPrestes]

Great shots of the Bahamian swimming pool... Seems ideal for swing keel use. Lightning protection would be great discussion to have, thank you.

[@thatsmealright2969]

yes lightning protection info would be very helpful

[@vidmikevid]

My first video of you guys. I guess I’m here downstream of Delos. Great so far, I look forward to many more. Hopefully one day I’ll have my turn

[@byronrogowsky9839]

Can go so many other places with your shallow draft boat...and the keel is very well designed and practical.

[@uhoffmann29]

Great video, guys. I hadn't really heard about Southerlys before I saw you using one (they are not common in the Mediterranean, as far as I can tell). But the lifting keel is an awesome thing to have. So many more options and flexibility. :-) Hi from Germany.

[@johncollins5021]

Yes i would like to know more about protecting my boat from lightning strikes.

[@hotrodsounds5011]

keep the videos coming

[@jenniferalbert910]

Great video. While my heart goes out to the people of the Abacos and Grand Bahamas I’m glad to hear the Other 1/2 are ok. I’d be interested in seeing a video on proper lighting protection, and mitigation.

[@michaeldenicola6725]

Yes I would be interested in learning about setting up a boat for a lighting hit.

[@waynesimon7772]

Yes, a video on lightening protection would be great, fair winds and great sailing

[@RaJo1981]

Thanks. GREAT

[@bill4nier]

As usual an awesome video! Would love to hear how you guys protect yourselves and boat from lighting (or should I say "reduced the risk"). 😉 Thanks for sharing! 👍👍👍👍👍😍⛵⛵⛵⛵⛵

[@billdomb]

Nice editing work! Shot in April and coming out in September, though? OUCH! We're back in port and were on the hard for Dorian. Heading back out there soon.

[@chaplaingreg5884]

One of my old boats was struck by lightning in 1997, it was a Tanzer 26 and the lightning fried everything including the mast. Upon close inspection the top of the mast had a maze of small holes burned into it. My wind indicator exploded. It was an interesting thing, especially since the whole boat was bonded. Some of the grounding wires also fizzed.

[@jshrawder49]

Another great show! I have been watching you since you were on TV when we lived n Canada. I would love to hear about lightning on a sailboat and what you do to prevent or mitigate damage.

[@tomtiernan8134]

You are the only people I have ever seen that purposely beach a mono-hull. For me: Worst nightmare For you: A parking spot while you take a walk on the beach :) Guess I have some things to learn. Would love to sail the Exumas. Great video.

[@mosca3289]

Great 👍🏻

[@danielgorz7594]

Oh absolutely want a video on lighting protection please. Pretty please?

[@crstothard]

Yes, please produce a video on proper grounding. Greetings from NYC!

[@wilfdarr]

Caution: they have a boat that is DESIGNED to be grounded often. Some cats and swing keels can do this, but the vast majority of sailing yachts today can't do what a Southerly is designed to do.

[@bourquebuiltful]

Why can't I hit the love button on you tube!!

[@sdavis4357]

Absolutely...a lightening protection discussion would be ideal. Certainly you have had plenty of experience over the past 30 years on the water.

[@trailbarge12]

Good info and lovely camera work. I like you guys and watch whenever I run across one of your vids. That being said, I get real tired of the word "Southerly". You like em, we get it. Stop making like Paul & Sheryl Mays.

[@CnCEndeavors]

Definitely would enjoy a video regarding how to ground a sailboat to combat lightening

[@towhitby1]

I loved the Southerly 47 and the new 480 looks good too. The raised coach roof probably means excellent visibility from the navigation inside but the lines aren’t as sleek as on the 47....is the GRP arch an option or standard?

[@tylewis6366]

Another great video from DS3! I do have a question regarding the swinging keel that you did not cover but may be obvious. When you go to disembark from a beached position, do you wait for high or slack tide, lift the keel, and back out under engine power until you reach a depth to allow for maneuvering to get underway again?

[@mimosawhiting1241]

Please make a video on protection from a lighting strike. Thank you.