Well... That's Not A Good Noise !

This video covers the moment the engine told me something was wrong. On startup I heard a sharp clack, clack, clack — the kind of sound that immediately tells you to stop and reassess. A suspected hydraulic lock is not something you push through. If you get it wrong, you destroy the engine. So the decision was immediate. Sails down, boat stopped, and a full shift from passage-making to problem management. From that point on it was about protecting the boat, conserving power, and understanding exactly what was happening before taking any further action. This is the difference between continuing blindly and recognizing when a situation has the potential to escalate into a serious failure. This is not about fixing things quickly. It’s about making the right call early enough that the problem never gets the chance to get worse. Need More Mariner? The Mariner Podcast Practical offshore knowledge — heavy weather, safety, and real-world sailing. Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-mariner/id1710667118⁠ Mariner’s Library (Podcast) Deep dives into the history, philosophy, and seamanship of life at sea. Listen here: https://themarinerslibrary.podbean.com⁠ Support the Project If you want to support the production of this media and the campaign: https://patreon.com/themariner⁠ Need 2 Sail? Join me on board Osprey for offshore passages and regatta events. All proceeds go toward funding the my entry in the Global Solo Challenge Round the World Race 2027. Details: https://csmthemariner.com⁠ Next Voyage: October Transatlantic We depart Bermuda on October 5th. If you want to be part of the crossing: csmthemariner@gmail.com