Downwinds | Santa Barbara Channel Crossing

Santa Barbara Channel Crossing

Boat and Support is required on this 45 km downwind crossing from Santa Cruz Island to Ventura on the mainland Santa Barbara USA on a WSW wind. The Santa Barbara Channel is a portion of the Southern California Bight and separates the mainland of California from the northern Channel Islands. It is generally south of the city of Santa Barbara, and west of the Oxnard Plain in Ventura County.


  • Santa Cruz Island, California 93001, USA

    Distance in KM
    45
    Estimated Time to complete
    3 - 5 Hrs depending on craft used and conditions
  • Wind Direction
    WSW
    Best months
  • Average Rating
    0.0

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  • Created
    about 4 years ago
    Last updated
    about 4 years ago
    Kindly shared by:
    downwindfun downwindfun



  • Launch is anywhere along the north coast side of Satan Cruz Island depending on wind direction considering this downwind requires a support boat.





    Dane Wilson becomes the first person to Foil across the Santa Barbara Channel with only a SUP foil. Follow his journey in this short YouTube video from Salty Brother Films. Besides having some great footage (including the dolphins!) it also gives details of planned original route and then due to conditions what the final route was.


    Dane then went on to do it again this time with a Kitefoil



    Actual finish from video crossing at Surfer's Knoll Ventura



    This downwind CANNOT be done WITHOUT a support boat


    Have fun and please stay safe!
    Some Basic Safety Guidelines

    - It is very difficult to spot someone in the water especially in strong wind conditions, so please make sure you can be seen - use bright colour clothing. Wear a brightly coloured PFD Wear a brightly coloured rash vest ( luminous green or orange is best)

    - Use a buddy system - doing a downwind with someone else is always safer than on your own.

    - Have a VHF Radio, mobile/cell phone in a waterproof bag ( test that you can use this in all conditions)

    - Know who to call for help and be sure that your family know who to call. Be sure that someone knows where you are and when you should return. And that they will call for help if this time is exceeded.

    - Other useful tips - Use a leash from the craft to your body. Have a signal flare (hand held are best) or pencil flares. Carry a reflector / mirror. Have a whistle that works when wet. Have your name and landline number on your craft. Leave a card with your name and phone number (mobile/cell and landline) on your vehicle dashboard.



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