The forecast for the next three days is pretty straightforward—30 kts from the north. Should be good for speed; bad for crew comfort. Not as bad as going closehauled into such winds, but the seas are likely to get quite big over three days. I would have considered sailing around this weather, but it’s basically everywhere.
So, grin (or grimace) and bear it. The storm jib went up yesterday; the second reef will go in as soon as I post this note (I’m likely to get a bit wet on deck, so I decided to do this first).
Had a close encounter with another sailboat around 2am today. Tamarind’s AIS was only visible for 4 nm, so we came within a mile or so of each other (she didn’t show up on radar). We spoke on VHF but didn’t make much progress beyond confirming that we’re both sailboats. The watch captain’s English was only marginally better than my awful Spanish.
Well, enough procrastinating. Time to get on deck and put in that second reef.
I may not post for a while. Imagine typing away on an iPad while being tossed around in a washing machine. Not pleasant!
You will be in our prayers. Steady as you go Captain.
We’re thinking of you….one hand for the ship and one for yourself. Here’s hoping you at least get to make good time.
We’re watching, thinking of you. Steady on.
Looks like you are making good progress
Hope things have calmed down a bit. I was wondering what wildlife you see in the middle of the ocean? Now that you’re closer to the Azores, I wondered if there might be more sightings? Any infamous trash gyres?
Karen