The weather has changed 100% since this time yesterday. Then it was cold and windy—the wind eventually topped out at 30kts. Around 2am, I put a second reef in the main and dropped the jib entirely. Strangely enough, the boat handled well, so I didn’t use my storm jib. I was exhausted.
But by 5am, the wind was easing. By 6am, I’d shaken out both reefs and raised the full jib. Since then it’s been steady winds, warm temperatures and a following current. My only issue is that the seas are still a bit lumpy, so there’s a gentle washing machine motion on the boat. Makes it a bit difficult to relax.
I am trying to relax, while also doing some chores: recharging batteries more fully than my hydrogenerator does at these speeds, running the water maker, cleaning up belowdecks.
It looks like lots of other vessels are following my route—hugging the 40 degree latitude line to stay south of the iceberg limit. That only becomes relevant a bit further (100nm) east of me, but I went south early to get the warm air, Gulf Stream current and because of the due westerly winds.i might even sail below 40 latitude unless the wind shifts one way or the other.
I guess that’s it for now.
Missed you at beyond labels. Less argumentative and more silent time. No one wanted to talk about Turkey. All about North Korea. Religion and politics next week. I’m glad you are in warmer water, warmer air, and with a westerly wind. -Art
Scott, keeping an eye out for your post, I am a friend of Kevin’s we work on projects with our companies
I want to wish you well in your trip, the longest run I made on a friends 42′ was from the Abaco’s to St. Thomas that was an adventure unlike yours… looking forward to following your trip Be Safe and enjoy
Glen