What was the Longest Recorded Time a Sailing Vessel was Be Calmed?

The navigation of sailing vessels has always been marked by unforeseen challenges, one of the most notable being the phenomenon of being becalmed. Becaules, which occur when a ship encounters a lack of wind, are particularly dangerous and can sometimes last for days or even weeks. Among the most astonishing instances is the case of the Antarctic.

The Antarctic Voyage: An Unprecedented Becaule

Between 1880 and 1884, the sailing ship Antarctic faced a becalmed period lasting approximately 1600 days, equivalent to roughly four years in the Pacific Ocean. During this extraordinary period, the crew and passengers faced not only the physical discomfort of limited movement but also the psychological strain of prolonged inactivity. While such lengthy becauls are rare, they serve as stark reminders of the unpredictable nature of sailing and the immense challenges faced by sailors during the age of sail.

Val Howells and the OSTAR Race

It is not uncommon for sailing vessels to experience becauls, even during notable races. For instance, in the early days of the One-Design Single-Handed Transatlantic Race (OSTAR), Val Howells faced a becalmed period during the race from Plymouth, UK, to Newport, USA. According to anecdotal accounts, this becalmed state lasted for about three weeks. Although exact records of his log are not readily available online, this period underscores the unpredictable nature of maritime travel and the challenges that single-handed sailors often face.

The Moshulu: A Floating Restaurant's Voyage Delay

Another interesting case is the Moshulu, a now-famous floating restaurant located in the United States. After a refit in Belfast, the ship was becalmed in Belfast Lough for around two weeks before acquiring sufficient wind to continue its voyage. This brief but noticeable delay highlights the advantage that steamships had over sailing vessels, as they could easily overcome such challenges and ensure a more reliable passage.

These accounts, though exceptional, provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by sailors in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Moshulu's story, as told in The Great Grain Race by Eric Newby, offers a detailed look at the experiences of those who signed on as apprentices during refit periods, highlighting the practical, historical, and personal aspects of the maritime world.

Conclusion

The stories of the Antarctic, Moshulu, and Val Howells' experiences serve as a testament to the unpredictable nature of sailing and the remarkable resilience of mariners. These episodes remind us of the awe-inspiring and sometimes terrifying adventures of those who relied on the wind and the sea for their journeys. For anyone interested in deepening their understanding of these maritime challenges, Eric Newby’s recounting of the Moshulu's story is highly recommended.

Understanding the intricacies of maritime history, including the challenges of becalms, can provide a rich backdrop for discussions and research in maritime studies, history, and even contemporary navigation techniques.