How to climb the mast when you are solo? Hugo, The Sailing Frenchman, who participates in the Mini 6.50 2021 explains his method.
Ascending the mast to the port
With the help of a climbing handle (Jumar) and a descender (Grigri), he describes the procedure for securing and climbing without (too) much effort along a halyard. The tests are done in port when the boat is not moving. This training period is essential to be able to make an ascent at sea.
Navigation test
The second part of the video shows the same climb, but this time when the boat is sailing under spinnaker. Still for training, Hugo climbs the masthead alone, but this time he comes along a second halyard to avoid risking too much amplitude if the boat was to move strongly.
For the course, the sailboat being under pilot, Hugo sets the pilot in compass mode and continues to interact with it thanks to his remote control which does not leave him. He can even modify the course to keep his sails always well inflated and thus ensure the stability of his sailboat.
In this video, Hugo shows us the importance of training when embarking on a solo transatlantic race. Thus well prepared, he will be able to intervene everywhere if a problem occurs during his offshore race.
