Amokura - Log Day 5 - Fast fixes and flying fans

As I start to write, the cockpit floor is piled high with boxes, fuel cans, drums of cleaning product and various other boat paraphernalia. With the Skipper safely snoozing, Vicky is in the stern locker trying to locate the source of the leak. Goodness only knows how all that stuff fitted into that size locker, it must be like the Tardis! Popping her head out of the foetid depths she announces her diagnosis, water ingress is through the life raft storage space on the transom. With the huge following seas, the sugar scoop is constantly awash, and it is not a watertight seal to this compartment. It's a relief to know the source,  and a temporary fix of duct tape is deployed around the outside of the door. We can easily cut this if, god forbid, we do need to get to the liferaft.

We had a few squalls overnight, their approach noticed when clouds blotted out the multitude of stars. Unlike reports from yachts to the south of us, who had 30-40knt gusts, wind strength has not increased dramatically. They seem to be very isolated. There has been a little rain, Vicky got a soaking on her watch, but just a few spots for the rest of us.

We are being very vigilant and primed to reduce sail quickly if the wind increases. It is lovely to sail Amokura to her best ability, and we are eating up the miles, but this is a marathon not a sprint, and safety will not be compromised.

We have been reminded ourselves of the importance of looking after ourselves, with rehydration and sun protection being a hot topic yesterday. Mark developed a touch of sunstroke, despite the shade of the bimini and cloud cover. He was feeling a bit rough by the evening and recognised the symptoms. Taking his pounding headache off to bed, within minutes of falling asleep, a flying fan (which we're using to keep the cabin cooler) launched itself off the top of the bookcase in the swell and landed on his suffering bonce - you couldn't make this stuff up! The universe was clearly having a good laugh at his expense. Lots of water and a good night's sleep, and he is feeling fine now, but a hat is being worn today, crash helmets not being available on board.

Other positives today, we have run the generator and watermaker and topped up the tank. I was captivated by shooting stars on my watch this morning, just magical!

Miles run in last 24 hrs: 188 nm
Average speed: 7.83 kts
Distance to Grenada: 1275 nm

Signing off...

Liz Brigstocke