Solo Sail To The Gambia Dodging Boats, Storm & Navigating The River | The Gambia Voyage | S8E15
After six months in Dakar, it’s time to lift off and sail Galopin solo to The Gambia. What was supposed to be an uneventful overnight passage turned into a high-stakes obstacle course of compass failures, near-misses with fishing trawlers, and a literal minefield of fishing nets.
In this episode, I navigate through the night using just wind and compass because my autopilot display was off by 60°. I run from the gusts of a big storm passing by, and weave through slalom-style fishing buoys at dawn. Upon arrival, I meet my local guide, Akon (yes, named after the singer), who helps me navigate the mangroves and the bureaucratic waters of Port Authority immigration.
Once anchored, the adventure truly begins as I take a dip in African waters teeming with fish, crabs, oysters, and yes, small crocodiles that locals claim are shy. The anchoring process proves tricky as we move the boat twice, touch bottom at low tide, and discover why this unique spot filled with floating bars and private pirogues requires a constant chilled attitude.
This is raw reality with no safety nets and no warning labels, offering an unfiltered adventure for those ready to embrace the wild. Please remember that this journey involves real risks, so always listen to locals and double-check your ladder before diving.
00:00 Intro
00:26 Letting go
00:53 Due South
01:16 Wrong heading
02:53 Fishing mine field
03:24 Net dodging
04:18 Slow moving
04:41 Agent Akon
05:39 Being courteous
05:58 Morning repositioning
06:57 Fear no crocs
08:24 Should have listened
10:01 Next week
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Winded Voyage Sailing
In 2026, Swiss sailor Alexandre Guidetti marks a decade of continuous blue water cruising aboard his 1981 Jeanneau Sun Fizz 40, Galopin. Operating out of Cercle de la Voile de Dakar in Senegal, he documents remote West African anchorages, mechanical overhauls, and offshore navigation with candid technical clarity. His self-produced series emphasizes self-reliance, local cultural immersion, and practical seamanship.
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Solo Sail To The Gambia Dodging Boats, Storm & Navigating The River | The Gambia Voyage | S8E15 Location
- Lamin Lodge - Bar, Restaurant & Boating (13.3936301,-16.6244461)
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Solo Sail To The Gambia Dodging Boats, Storm & Navigating The River | The Gambia Voyage | S8E15
After six months in Dakar, it’s time to lift off and sail Galopin solo to The Gambia. What was supposed to be an uneventful overnight passage turned into a high-stakes obstacle course of compass failures, near-misses with fishing trawlers, and a literal minefield of fishing nets. In this episode, I...
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