Close Call for Solo Sailor During Oregon to Hawaii Voyage

Oregon to Hawaii Sailing Adventure Turns Perilous: A Sailor's Close Call On May 15, 2025, a solo sailor, sailing_with_phoenix, documented a near-disaster during his voyage from Oregon to Hawaii. In a video posted on social media, he described the day as "maybe the third scariest day of my life." The dramatic moment occurred when he discovered a missing pin on one of his boat's stays, a critical component holding the mast in place. This could have resulted in the mast falling, causing significant damage or injury. "I was one tack away from losing that stay and very potentially losing the entire mast," he said in the video. The sailor immediately replaced the pin and all other similar pins on the boat as a precautionary measure. Despite the frightening experience, the video also showcases the beauty of the journey and the unexpected moments, such as catching a flying fish, which the sailor described as a dream come true. The incident serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance and preparedness required for long-distance sailing. The quick thinking and actions of the author prevented a potentially catastrophic event, highlighting the importance of regular boat maintenance and safety checks.