Open Ocean RESCUE: "MAYDAY WE'RE DISMASTED!" (Part 1/4)

[@thelastpirate]

Many comments asked about towing, specifically why we decided towing was not an option. Please see the explanation below: Offshore passage-making is all about risk management, starting with the planning stage. Towing under sail is incredibly challenging and risky. We're already wrestling with unpredictable elements like shifting winds, storms, and changing wave conditions to get one boat safely across the ocean. Towing a 20,000lb paperweight doesn't help. Handling two boats in sync, the potential for chafe, potential contact between the vessels, and the wear and tear on both is a recipe for trouble. It would be a tough call even if it were a shorter distance, like 200 miles. But for a 2,000-mile journey, it's a whole different ballgame. I doubt the cleats on the Bavaria could even handle that kind of strain. Ultimately, crew safety is our top priority, and the risks associated with towing another boat over such a long distance far outweigh any potential gain.

[@jimbennett2795]

WHO LETS THESE UNQUALIFIED WANNA BE'S SAIL THIS FAR I FORGOT YOU DON'T NEED A LICENSE TO DRIVE A BOAT. THIS IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF WHY WE NEED TO CHANGE THE LAWS ALL THESE NEW UTUBERS BUYING OCEAN GOING BOATS AND RISKING THEIR LIVES

[@dpjbdpjb]

great stuff

[@verdigo5892]

@@jimbennett2795 I really hope you never get in any kind of office that allows you to enforce "your" ideas of how other people express "their" freedom to live "their" lives as "they" wish. NO. We don't need any more laws with restrictions that "you" seem to think you can decide for us. I mean Seriously, mind your own damn business. Hoping they get their boat back, make adjustments they might have learned from any mistakes they made and take another stab at it if they wish.

[@MrBlazinerday]

@@jimbennett2795who still uses all caps

[@justlooking2222]

Watch Drake Paragon on what can happen towing another sailboat.

[@Cortez-rx7vj]

I was in a life or death Mayday situation over 200nm from shore on my very first offshore passage. The circumstance were different from yours, but what is exactly the same was the boat had a great captain who was in charge the whole time. Similar to you, he asked the crew for input and their opinion, but when things got very real and big decisions had to be made, he shut down discussion and simply called the shots. Well done James.

[@SuperDirk1965]

A mayday is always about a life threatening situation. All other cases are pan pan. A dismasting is never a case for mayday on its own. When the mast coming down injures a crewmember, then it may become a mayday.

[@thelastpirate]

Thanks, man. I am happy to hear you made it through your experience.

[@Surfsail]

​@@SuperDirk1965I have to disagree if they have no way to continue they are stranded you ever been stranded out in the middle of the ocean I could tell you the consequences aren't good

[@Surfsail]

A true captain no matter what happens the wine is going to be saved😂😂😂😂😂

[@Surfsail]

I love my book but if I was in that situation I would not ask the captain to risk his boat and then have two boats Lost in All lives lost🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@ronaldfisher663]

I remember when your catamaran broke nearly into two pieces on open waters! Nobody understands such emergencies more than you! Great work, great crisis management! That is why I am subscribed to your channel. You are a great and a real Sailor with your heart and mind on the right spot!

[@alexmorton7730]

First of all, bravo for coming to the rescue. I also have to say that the production was wonderful! Compelling, exciting and fun to watch. This is you at your best, James, with all your competence showing.

[@longbeaches44]

The crew of Yara is very lucky to have encountered James to provide assistance and rescue. Well done!

[@kbc1883]

So very lucky with how everything lined up. I was a bit surprised that the rescued crew did not express much thanks in their reply email or in the radio exchange. Perhaps it was extreme exhaustion and stress and they just didn't have it in them. Or perhaps it is cultural, but I would have imagine much more effusive relief and gratitude from ones who are stranded in the middle of nowhere without potential for rescue in any other way. It was strange.

[@thelastpirate]

@@kbc1883 Jumping to that conclusion only emphasizes my shortcomings as a storyteller. They were very thankful, and have been a pleasure to have aboard. We've all become very good friends.

[@adiltair7162]

Well done James you took the right decision and managed the situation as a what a Captain should do, your safety first then safety of the other with you it is a human behavior that you did that demonstrates a high level of seamanship keep going mate 👍🏻

[@kbc1883]

@@Backwoodscards I watch sailing videos for vicarious adventure entertainment. I don’t “do my homework” on them because I’m not that invested. It is the first time I’ve watched this channel. I just did a Google search on the boat name and his name and don’t see anything along the lines of what you stated. So, if you want to get the word out, maybe share some info about where to locate additional data?

[@thelastpirate]

@@kbc1883 That guy is a troll, he has commented on every single one of my videos spreading hate and lies. Don't feed the trolls :)

[@albertfunk1176]

I take my hat off to the well-considered rescue operation. I appeal to the viewers to honor this with a thumbs up.

[@danieloliver20]

I just gave you one Albert! 😁

[@thelastpirate]

Ahoy! Thanks for watching! We are all healthy and happy, and our guests got the trip of a lifetime! Come sailing with us! sailingzingaro.com/

[@yapandasoftware]

In my lifetime... I could only hope to become half the captain you are... and I'd be happy.

[@leonaessens4399]

I've been watching Zingaro for some time, more particularly episodes featuring Plukky of Sailing into Freedom. I have to say Yara and its crew have been lucky, under the circumstances. James is exactly the kind of guy you want to have around when things go pearshaped!

[@rogercohen1167]

James you’re an absolute legend. Your care and desperation to help others is amazing.

[@runwillrobinson]

James, you are one heck of a sailor. Your no-big-deal attitude is set aside when it gets down to serious business, and you both know and do what the right thing to do is. A real expert.

[@robertlaird6746]

5th I love how you articulate your words on the videos and on paper! You worded that email perfectly! This was an awesome video once again. Keep em coming.

[@davemcclelland3164]

Such an amazing story so far. To be the only vessel within range is kind of a one shot deal. You have to assist. Great job on that message to them. Made it very clear seeing their response so you knew the real situation and made a plan. Fair winds to you and your crew.

[@BMarie774]

When they said “you’re really their only chance at being rescued in a timely manner” I immediately thought “well shit, I guess we gotta go” lol. It’s an immediate response. Yah just can’t leave people especially if someone is injured.

[@user-Adam72]

Fantastic work all! This is a fantastic video to watch the rescue process 'in the raw' not a trial, or with specialist rescue resources. Thankyou for taking the added time to document the process and share the discussions and reasoning (including the captain listening but then stepping in as the authority). Bravo!

[@schmidtfjs]

Asking the right questions and considering the safety of both crews -- Captain James -- awesome.

[@jjiron706]

What made me subscribe to you was a deep knowledge of being a sailor . After this video you have cemented your ability as a Captain. This video is was is right with the world and your action plus vision is totally positive . I thank you for sharing , many blessing and calm seas Captain .

[@waynehanley72]

Excellent job in rendering assistance. Nicely asserted that you are the skipper and decisions were yours (when considering the safety of your crew and boat).

[@obieandlaurie]

Rescuing people at sea in a selfless manner deserves more than a beer….thank you for being you. Great video, great story with a happy ending. Cheers! 🤗

[@thelastpirate]

But we'll take it! :) Seriously, we didn't do that for any money, we'd want the same treatment if it was our loved ones!

[@robbbbbie12]

Well done captain and crew on the rescue. Also, that’s a really well produced video, the editing, camera work and storytelling is top notch.

[@bobwilson7384]

I have been following you for several years. Your reaction to a vessel in need made me very happy. In this era. Of people not giving a shit, you are a relief!

[@Vincent-Vega24]

I have been watching your channel for years now. I have never sailed and have no clue of how I even came across your videos but my first video I seen of yours was when you were at a house working on the first Zingaro!!!! I got hooked on your videos from then on and could tell you have a good heart. This video is more proof of this!!! Your good people James!!!!! Hello from North Carolina!!!!

[@thelastpirate]

Wow, thank you!

[@richardbell5792]

Great skippering James and good final call. Saving 3 lives is something to be pretty proud of!

[@johnmagnan759]

James you are the man! As a fellow bubble head I know you would have helped regardless of any maritime rules.

[@chilicheezedog]

I have followed you for years and I love how you handle the unknown then methodically move forward and do the right things. You da man Thanks

[@oceancowboy6981]

S/V ZINGARO gets the sailor and sailing vessel of the year award !! You just saves there lives probably, and you will be blessed in a number of ways for your decision to lay down your life and go to the rescue, no matter the cost , you probably obtained this kind of mindset young in life or being in the Navy 👍👍

[@SuperDirk1965]

In what way did James risk his life?

[@oceancowboy6981]

@@SuperDirk1965 Rescue at sea Always can be a risk You should not be a negative troll Bounce

[@SuperDirk1965]

@@oceancowboy6981 living is also very risky

[@captainjimolchs]

@@oceancowboy6981 You did not answer the question. Identify where, in this video, is any risk to his or any other life shown? Waiting until daylight, and not attempting a tow both demonstrate extreme caution.

[@michaeltouchette8156]

I've been watching pretty much from the start of your channel... and that sad ole cat you had. sorry but not surprised with it's final demise. Then recently heard where you are former Navy... much added respect. Old Coasty here. And now with this video SO much more respect!!! cant wait to watch the party with ths rescued crew Part II

[@HoosierPete69.]

Who would ever doubt that James would do the right thing? He's a Captain among Captains.

[@davidpowell6258]

Well done Captain, carefully planned and well executed. Perfect, 3 souls saved with your boat and crew not placed in any danger. Very impressive!

[@unclemilton815]

Well done James and crew! Love your spirit!

[@mobylettesduvercors]

I'm a french friend of Marion and Guenha, thank you so much for rescuing them!!!! Please, tell them that Romain is following the videos ;) From France with love

[@roystewart4482]

The KZbin algorithm had me “stumble” across your channel with this as the first video it suggested. Since I recently retired am looking at tagging on to a sailboat for Pacific sailing it keeps sending me these types of videos. I owned several sailboats in the past and when I started watching this show, almost immediately, I said to my wife - since there was no mention of a recent storm I am pretty sure the reason for the demasting was a rigging failure due to poor equipment maintenaince. I engage in a lot of sports (off-road motorcycle riding, Hangliding, general aviation) that require you to continually inspect and maintain your equipment or you could be in serious trouble. Thank you for completing the series by doing a debriefing / lessons learned. This is a valuable lesson for everyone and a reassurance for those who maintain their equipment. Bluewater sailing is quite costly and I think / speculate that a lot of people are doing it on a limited budget and trying to cut corners where they think they can and paying a price when it does not work out.

[@tarivard]

James - your experience is priceless. Well done! Zingaro looks amazing on the water. Congrats on the family news.

[@timtrinkaus7072]

Wow this is totally crazy awesome job James and crew what an epic adventure!! I can’t imagine losing the mast in the middle of the Pacific and having you near by the assist is amazing.

[@redsadventures5654]

First time seeing your channel I didn't realize this video was brand new and was immediately looking for part two when I realized this video was just put out. Good work captain

[@thelastpirate]

Welcome aboard! Part 2 will be out next Thursday.

[@sidhealey5003]

James, you are a good captain. I am glad you share the world with us!

[@retropalooza]

I'm the captain you listen to me..... finally someone gets it right

[@rebelarcher5450]

you da man James , legend , you can be proud of your time in the Navy for turning you into an utter professional mariner . Hope to see you out sailing around Australia some day .👍🐳

[@lenniedemuth]

SV Zingaro to the rescue. Good on you Captain James!!!

[@KCF2024]

Been watching you a long time, not surprised at all you stopped to help. Nicely done, enjoyed watching and looking forward to part two!!

[@jacksonms212]

Nicely Done Cpt. Godspeed fair winds and following seas for the rest of the trip .

[@CravinMorehead420]

Damn. That's heavy.. Glad you all were around.. 🙏

[@mariescott9853]

That was so exciting. James you are the coolest.

[@Terry49]

Captain James you showed a great amount of knowledge during the rescue 👍👍👌

[@majoroldladyakamom6948]

Your choice of music is spot on. ⚘️

[@david_shih]

amazing rescue bro! makin' us proud!

[@bryandonovan2118]

Thanks!

[@thelastpirate]

Thanks Bryan! We didn't do it for the $$, but we'll buy a little more rum for the coffers! :) I Appreciate it, my friend, much love!

[@ILTOMBA]

Captivating, well-edited, unscripted and authentic! KZbin at its best.

[@Mikeandlucy1]

Im returning to sailing after many many years and in a totally different size and type of boat than before. There are so many modern aids today that we never had back in my day but I think I am slowly getting my head around some of it. Thankfully, neither my boat nor I will ever contemplate an Ocean crossing and I think the farthest I will ever be from shore will be 11 miles when Im mid Channel on my way to France. But watching a master at work managing a situation like this, I cannot help but realise just how much I still have to learn. An excellent job and the crew of Zara were lucky such an experienced and cool headed Captain was able to answer their call.

[@robertmurray2843]

To the captain you are a blessed soul for helping these people out their lives are under your care i praise you for helping them

[@markholland5462]

James, always a wealth of knowledge and great vid material!!!!!

[@nearlynativenursery8638]

Very good Captain James using heart, logic and your navigation and sailing knowledge. Great rescue guys! Jim Rodgers

[@vagabond-voyages]

Wow! Well done James! We look forward to seeing you again soon in Panama!

[@matthewpocock4824]

Good form, Captain and crew of Zingaro. You don't realise how big the ocean is until your boat breaks down!

[@darren5472]

James, we spoke earlier this year in an interview about training for offshore passages. This video, your skill, clear and concise decision making and calmness under pressure show why you are the perfect person for that training. "I'm the captain" and what a captain you are! Love the channel, hope your family is doing well. Darren

[@danieljackson4674]

James, you are a true professional.

[@scottmills3403]

Awesome James and team - you are the best sir!

[@davidhakes3884]

Top Notch James, GREAT Save.

[@U20E27]

Wow nice job!! In 2000 during the PACIFIC CUP SF to Oahu 2200 mile race. The summer High pressure system sat off the CA coast and shut the wind off for 6 days. Yes we were , no motoring! Days hand steering no auto helm on a crewed racing boat 4 of us on a 34ft boat, 1-2 knots for days was difficult. 1/2 the fleet bailed on the race. We were about 700 miles out when we were buzzed by a C130 Coast Guard plane. We got on the radio they were hailing us. They were looking for a Santa Cruze CA sailboat that had been missing for over a week. It was thought the owner might have decided to sail to Hawaii during a day sail out of Santa Cruise😳. One of our competitors stumbled on to them a few days later. Reported their position to USCG, taught them how to use a hand held GPS, gave them fuel and food pointed them back at California and sent them on their way. Race boat continued on racing to Oahu. 11 day trip typically for our boat took is 17 days and we were first to arrive. The lost people on the missing sailboat arrived in Long Beach many days later after getting supplies dropped more than once. Being out there 1000 miles from no where you realize just how important your skills are, the boat and systems are to keep you safe, rested, and healthy. Very lucky folks to have the Z boat in the region. Nice job

[@jerry881]

Awesome video Zingaro!!! What an amazing story!

[@aleeti65]

Nice sailing rescue James, to go all options and take the best one. With out a mast, repair is inpossible, wish them the best!

[@TopG-ue5mp]

Never seen your videos before I love gone with the wynns & vagabonde now your on my subscribe list 👌🏼👍🏻

[@thelastpirate]

Welcome aboard!

[@mariuszkijowski2180]

Thank you for sharing! Great you ware in the area. Real life example how it looks like when situation goes bad... Looking for part #2

[@scottelliott6900]

Awesome. Really captures what a great guy you are and your professionalism as a Captain

[@gregp13]

Excellent work, superb storytelling, and great production. Well done, sir.

[@privatesender]

Nice work James & Crew -- Bravo!

[@windingroad9678]

Great job James you are the best. ❤

[@tiffinyanderson4403]

First off great job James and crew and secondly I’ve watched you from the very beginning when you were getting the homemade catamaran ready. You’ve obviously matured. Your knowledge is invaluable and your story telling and videography has gotten really good. Sadly these tankers and big ships are on tight schedules but as you have experienced when things go bad the maritime rules to help others comes into play so well done. Stay safe out there.

[@treadlightly6427]

The Sea can take any boat down along with anyone on board. Mother nature is one to be respected but you cannot fully prepare for when she gets angry. Thank you for being one of those captains that understands the code, I wish you and the crew the very best!

[@gcrauwels941]

Outstanding. You were there at the right time and place to pay it forward. 🙏👊🙂

[@TammyBillings-qt1ve]

Great episode. I really enjoyed watching this episode. Cheers

[@cnc75adventures49]

This channel has all the rescues so much great information to be learned from them👍👍

[@timothy_pitcock]

Another reason you are one of the coolest boats and crew on the ocean

[@annapiamccarthypeters8633]

Can’t wait to see part 2 The rescued crew is so so lucky you were close by

[@christaylor239]

Just finished “The sailing spirit” by John Hughes. Was fully demasted at 52 47S 149 19W and determined to finish his round the world race, made a jury rig a frame setup from spinnaker poles and sailed, albeit quite slowly, to the Falkland Islands. Good on you for helping and your organizational efforts. Looking forward to part two!

[@thelastpirate]

What a badass. John is a legend.

[@adventuresinbasicreality219]

What a stroke of luck you guys are amazing what a great rescue glad you all were able to talk it over and find them love to see that

[@lifeisshorter8192]

Your the Captain is dam right!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Maddd respect!!!!!!!!!

[@ellenritt7667]

He did ask their opinions! Sure pull rank when decision was needed, but in the discussion point get as many thinking and sharing. Don’t waste good ideas.

[@feelincrispy7053]

He didnt pull rank per se, it was more of a reminder to shut down bickering. A skipper shouldn't have to explain their thinking when making decisions. It's annoying, disrespectful and wastful. We don't know the whole discussion and vibe that was happening before hand either. Could have been some unruly behaviour days previously. Its so so important that everyone is clear that the skipper has full control and final say at all times and the crewmen must know it. Its not a power trip thing, its good boat edicate. When you're in the ocean, indecisiveness gets you killed. They arnt in a meeting room at work, they are in the most unhospitible place on earth. The primary function of a skipper is making decisions to keep his crew performing at their very best whether the crew likes it or not. And that includes how the boat is set up for sleeping like we saw in the video

[@carlo_771]

Amazing job. Can’t wait to see part2. And if you can explain why towing was out of question? I imagine it would take double time to get to land, but if enough put food and fuel is possible right? Or it has something to do with weight and drag and actual impossible.

[@thelastpirate]

Great question! Offshore passage-making is all about risk management, starting with the planning stage. Towing under sail is incredibly challenging and risky. We're already wrestling with unpredictable elements like shifting winds, storms, and changing wave conditions to get one boat safely across the ocean. Towing a 20,000lb paperweight doesn't help. Handling two boats in sync, the potential for chafe, potential contact between the vessels, and the wear and tear on both is a recipe for trouble. It would be a tough call even if it were a shorter distance, like 200 miles. But for a 2,000-mile journey, it's a whole different ballgame. I doubt the cleats on the Bavaria could even handle that kind of strain. Ultimately, crew safety is our top priority, and the risks associated with towing another boat over such a long distance far outweigh any potential gain. (now, if it were an Oyster.... ;)

[@TheSailingFamily]

Really interesting video. Thank you for capturing your thoughts before and after. Much respect to you for helping these sailors.

[@bamabldr66]

God Bless you James Evenson! I am proud to know you. -Cliff Battleship Marine Supply Fairhope, Alabama USA 🇺🇸

[@melaniecarroll2538]

Incredible. I also love how the rescuer was fulfilling an important purpose.

[@blue1991flhs]

Great job! Thanks for sharing!

[@melinda5777]

WELL DONE CAPTAIN JAMES!!!🎉🎉🎉 🙏❤🇺🇸⛵👣🤙🤗⚘

[@Soraiacmv]

Kudos to James. What a legend!!!

[@andellmcletchie2323]

Thanks to the James and his crew and with the help of the US coast guard as well.

[@evinwhiteson4902]

James has the most crazy experiences on video at sea of any youtube sailing channel.

[@junglist32]

wow, incredibly lucky that you were in the area. Can't wait for part 2

[@paulelgersma3971]

Great adventure, thank you.

[@TheCani87]

Thank you for sharing this. I think this is so much teaching to all hobby sailors watching this video!

[@SailingCalipso]

James we are the last pirates ! My brother your a true man

[@psr1868]

Incredibly lucky in many ways, including the weather conditions.

[@Makewayproduction]

If there was anyone that I would want to be rescued by in that situation it would 100% be James! Good man!!

[@whyme8068]

Very interesting story and something to learn from. Great job on the rescue! Great job on the production of the video as well!

[@rjgillens2637]

Bless your hearts... yes it is the rule of the sea to offer assistance... but you are living it... well done!

[@wandarains2486]

Great job. A perfect example of how a person new to boating and for that matter, all boaters, need to be able to conduct a man overboard drill and take the time to instruct their guests on procedures, location of life jackets, life slings, fire extinguishers, use of the vhf, use of the emergency button if they have a mmsi number.

[@ler3968]

Great job Zingaro. This situation is exactly why I cannot handle any sea trip where I cannot see the lights of terra firma at night much less in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with no mast or fuel.

[@adventureswithryan5474]

I've had the pleasure meeting you at the Annapolis Boat Show (21 and 22). We missed having you in the booth this year, but it turns out that you were doing greater things in the middle of the Pacific. I'm sure that Yara appreciates the fact that you were not in Annapolis. Thanks for helping these people out and thanks for being a great captain! Hope to see you in the booth next year!

[@DrRockso0]

This might be the opportunity to really expand your YT audience. Strike while the iron is hot. This should get a million views in a week or so. Truly compelling, great edit.

[@IslandersReels]

Thank you soo much for your support and confidential 💪🔥💪

[@briansmythe3000]

Wow Legends, They certainly lucked out having you guys come Too the rescue 😮

[@jclements65]

Great job, That’s what it’s all about, helping someone when they have no way to help themselves.

[@hearmenow909]

James you legend. Awesome. I loved all the technical stuff too.

[@pjakobs]

Great seamanship! Glad you could pick them up and deliver them to safety. The sea can be the loneliest place on earth if you are adrift. I can only imagine the mental stress, the yara crew was in. Seeing how professional and easy you all were must have been a great relief.