Agua Dulce - Log Day 2 – Settling in

Our first full day at sea was really just a process of settling in to the rhythm of watches, eating, sleeping, etc. The winds ranged from 9-15 knots from the NNE and the seas were a bit rolly. By the evening, we stopped rolling as much and were able to get a good night’s sleep when off watch.

We’re having an issue with the generator, again. We don’t think it’s getting fuel even though it’s a brand new fuel pump. We’re waiting to hear back from Fischer Panda to hear how to trouble shoot. So, we ran the engine for about an hour to charge batteries and run the watermaker. Speaking of which, I LOVE our new Dessalator watermaker! It is simple and reliable and we topped off our tanks quickly.

Weather was gray and cool – I’m really looking forward to the sunny Caribbean!

We dragged a lure all day, but again, no hits, no fish, no fresh sushi for dinner. I’ve got the soy sauce, pickled ginger and wasabi, so I’m ready to catch some fresh tuna!

The most exciting thing that happened was that we had a visitor on board about mid-day for several hours. A Eurasian Dove landed on our genoa pole and then flew to the stern and sat on our dinghy for a few hours. He wouldn’t eat any crackers or take any of the fresh water I put out for him, so I think he was just tired. Since I know dove are not seabirds, I sure hope he is able to hitch enough rides to get back to land and not have to travel all the way across the Atlantic!

The interesting thing about traveling in a rally this big is that there are still visible boats around us. When we did the ARC Europe several years ago, there were only about 30 boats, and after we departed, we didn’t see any after the first day until we all converged on Bermuda or the Azores or Portugal and everyone’s routes began coming together. It’s not a bad feeling to know that you’re not all alone – but of course we talk to each other daily on the SSB.

Keeping our fingers crossed for a fish tomorrow!