9 March 2011
David has done his calculations and from here to Grenada is a sailing distance of 2100nm. I am in two minds. Yes, I am more than ready to move on but it is a mega long way and David reckons on at least a fourteen to fifteen day passage. The grib files show lots of rain and light winds, no surprises there, we will after all be at the Equator. The only thing in our favour is a favourable current. This has been confirmed by the WARC American weather forecaster. And....the pilot book agrees. We are optimistic. I am planning a big present for Neptune to see us on our way and feel confident that he will look kindly upon us, on this our last and lengthy leg spurring us on towards our final goal, Grenada. Strictly speaking it is not an ocean passage but will, by its very distance seem like one. I am really ready to go. The lure of the sea is calling to me one more. I need to out there, I need to be underway. Isn't it what voyaging is all about? Voyageur certainly thinks so and come tomorrow.... we will be on our way once more.....
We are just on the fringes and I know it is very hard for us to gauge but I reckon that here in the Cabanga Yacht Club Marina, Paul and Suzanna have worked their socks off for us. I am only guessing but I think that Brazilian beaurocracy is worse than any other. I am languishing in the pool here and I ask Paul how many times he has had an opportunity to swim. Twice he answers, after ten o'clock at night. I know it is his job and I also know he is getting paid for it but he and Suzanna are always there for us, always on call. Last night they organized a "bring your own barbeque food and drinks and we will supply the rest". Irene and Dick had prepared great caipirinhas. All we had to do was cook our own sausages, steaks, chicken, whatever and supply the drinks. It was a great opportunity for everyone to have a get together before we head off for the Caribbean. Everyone now is thinking of home, of families, friends, of the finish. It is time now. It has been long enough.
Susan Mackay