The last post was written on Wednesday, more than 24 hrs before it was sent. Believe it or not, Im so exhausted (or queasy) after drafting these things that Im not up for the process of hooking up the phone and WiFi base, then sending the messagewatching to be sure it went out, then breaking down the equipment for watertight storage. Lets see if I can do better.
You may recall that I was motoring, but expected the wind to pick up. It did so right after I drafted the last post. Then it really picked up, to 25 kts well forward of the beam (so 30+ apparent). I put in a reef, then a second, and theyre still in now. The wind should die down as I approach Bermuda.
Last nights other fun was with a big ship: Sea Dolphin C. We saw each other on AIS at 20 nm distance. Clearly a risk of collision with a CPA of less than 0.5 nm. I kept a close watch to see when/how she would take avoiding action, as she is required to do. Nothing. Same course; same speed. I eventually bore away and took her sternno easy feat given the high winds, big seas, heavy rain and darkness. Usually I hail a vessel like this by VHF radio, but I guess I wasnt in the mood to argue with someone who was either incompetent or just didnt care. (I do have an electronic log of all these happenings.) Wheres the highway patrol when you need them?
Looking forward, the next adventure will be Sunday night, when 30kts wind well aft the beam are forecast. I might 1) plow ahead, 2) stop in Bermuda for a day, or 3) head west to avoid the worst of it. Right now Im leaning toward #1, but Im open to suggestions. I need to decide by early tomorrow afternoon.
Until tomorrow!
Good meal in St Georges wouldnt be the end of the world…..
In 4 different Bermuda On-Two’s I’ve never had a big ship honor the rules of the road, they just use the “biggest boat wins” rule!
My experience is yours. Most of the time they are on auto pilot.
Bermuda. It will be easier on you.
Both GFS and PWG models show another 30-35 kt blow on late Sunday. Catch up on sleep in Bermuda for a couple days!
You are amazing. I must confess that I just crossed to the Punto Del Gado and on to Ireland on one of the awful, incompetent and inconsiderate big ships and am glad that you were able and willing to choose an avoidance safely. Good idea to Bermuda, in my opinion, since you asked. Will pray for continued safe passage. bj