I have 390nm to go. With winds forecast to remain around 20kts for the next two days, I could reasonably average 8kts over the ground, which puts my ETA at roughly 5pm Wednesday.
But it starts to get dark by 4pm (all times EST), and I wouldnt sail into the harbor at night (remember, I have no way to stop on short notice). So I figure Ill plan my speed around arriving no later than 8am Thursday. That extra 15 hours means I only have to average 6.1kts. Should be easy.
So, why does this matter? Well, to do 8+ knots, I was heeled 20 degrees, with the autopilot scalloping in the wind and wavesslowing as it turns toward the wind and up the wave, then accelerating rapidly as the boat turns downwind and downhill. Lots of pressure on the rudder, the rig, and yours truly.
Given the extra time, I now have two reefs in the main. Im averaging 7.2kts over the ground. And I have a much more comfortable (and consistent) heel of 10 degrees.
At this pace, Ill get there around 10pm Wednesday, and plan to heave to outside the harbor until daylight.
I also have some time cushion in the event things changelike the wind dying down.
More tomorrow!
Sounds like a good plan
Scott….Sounds like a good ride the rest of the way…..Fair Winds….
Scott. We wait with anticipation for your next blog. We are taking the trip in our minds with you. May you have smooth sailing now.
Ellie and Doug
We’ll be in Falmouth Wednesday afternoon, but best if we tow to do in daylight. Sent along some nav local observations to you at your regular address.
It looks like a pretty steady 15 to 20 kts. from the NE shifting more to the E with waves 5 to 6 feet. A few scattered showers will be thrown in, but with 80 degree temp. what the heck. If you don’t have a prop I guess you are better off if you don’t need one.
31 degrees back here so don’t forget to dig out your wintry wraps before heading back to Maine.
Looking good!
Making good progress – nice. Check your charts carefully as there are a number of reefs, shallow waters and islands outside of Jolly if you elect to heave-to. There is an easily approachable anchorage area in 15’ just outside of the Jolly entrance. – just east of the red/white marker. Also, there is a lot of commercial traffic awaiting entrance/departure out of St Johns.
Sorry to hear about your lost prop. Bummer!
Galen
Its funny to follow it as Im motoring down the inland waterway on a beautiful day with coffee in hand!
love the prop drama, you’ve got to think up a new drama for your viewers
Glad to hear you have a willing and able reception committee in Antigua. Have a safe landfall- no more drama this trip!