24th November 2008 10.00 GMT
Hello from the Atlantic Ocean!
Despite the preparation week being occupied by a lot of partying, including Monday night as I previously said, also the Caribbean carnival on Wednesday which was a good night, farewell drinks of Friday and concluding with fireworks on Saturday night. Sunday morning was a new experience for most crews including ours…hangover free and looking forward to the journey.
Last minute jobs were being taken care of and then we set off yesterday for the racing start at 1pm. With approx. 200 boats in the harbour waiting to go, it was a little manic being in the middle of everyone when crossing the line. The wind was good and once the twin head sails were sorted we were making a steady 7.5 - 8 knots! As night time fell on our first night the amount of boats around us was incredible, so many everywhere!
This morning the sun is shining on another what looks to be a good day and all the crew is well.
Speak to you soon
Sarah xx
2817 Nm in total to cover, 120 done! Our course will take us down to within about 300 miles of the Cap Verde Islands and then west to St. Lucia. The weather reports show a well established high on the Azores, another high in the Caribean and a trough, with little wind, in between. The first night passed off well, everyone standing watch for three hours between 9 pm and 9 am this morning. With so many yachts pretty much all taking the same route (due to the forecast weather) the night sky was filled with tiny twinkling navigation lights. Although comforting to have some company, it did make for a restless night trying to make sure no one got too “up close and personal”.
It takes a few days to settle into the routine but, having such a flying start and great weather helped to raise spirits and make the night pass quickly. The wind did drop somewhat in the night, from 20 down to 7 knots so the progress is slow this morning.
Dave