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Pannikin - Days 7& 8



Sunday 1st December – Day 7
Boat speed during the night was slow as we only had a very small headsail out because of the rough conditions with the wind around 35kts and gusts up to 40kts and with a long way to go we thought it best to be a little conservative. There was heavy rain squalls and the waves and swell were up as well. Every so often a wave would slap the side of Pannikin and the helms person would get a little more wet, if that was possible. John was suffering from seasickness and Dr Andrew gave him a shot and sent him to bed for the night. The morning wind slowly veered around onto the nose, but eased making a weary crew a little more comfortable. By mid morning we were not getting very far without a mainsail so we had to attempt a sail change – not an easy exercise with an in-mast furling system but the crew worked well together and we were off and sailing in no time.
That evening everyone was too tired to eat and those who weren’t on watch hit the bunks to catch up on some much needed rest.
We were informed of some tragic news from a boat in the fleet where the skipper suffered a heart attack and passed away. At least he was doing something he loved at the time. Our thoughts go out to his loved ones.

Monday 2nd December – Day 8
What a difference a day makes. A starry sky follow by sunshine and light winds saw everyone rested and greeted the morning with smiles on their faces. Wet gear was hung out to dry, washing was done, Pannikin was swept and cleaned, Steve baked some fresh bread and Di even washed here hair.
The dolphins came and played around the boat for a while which is always special on beautiful days like this. We are still waiting for the breeze to swing around behind us which will help with our speed and get us pointing in the right direction.

The ARC has informed us of a boat that, not taking part in the rally, that is missing and hasn’t made contact for four days - we hope all is well and it is only a communication problem. Another boat lost its life raft in the heavy weather and asked all boat to keep a look out for it.







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