Hi from Skipper Steve
We are off again on the long passage from Cape Town to Salvador in Brazil, a distance of approximately 3600nm with a single possible stop at St Helena in the middle of the South Atlantic. Conditions are predicted to be mild, at least for the next few days, and so far just 24hrs into the passage, we have had near perfect winds and seas with a steady 12 -15 knot blow from the south east and 1-2 metre swells. Quite a difference from the hammering we encountered crossing the Indian Ocean. We are part of the annual Cape to Bahia ocean race, sponsored by Heineken and although, we obviously, are not designed or set to race, the competitive spirit kicks in and will help us sail Kasuje to her optimum, keeping her in trim etc. It also prevents us from becoming complacent. I am also determined to make this passage without the use of any horse power, we will see!!!
The Christmas break and return home was a very welcome interlude from the sailing and has reinvigorated my mind and body. The social and economic difficulties currently hitting the western world had mostly passed us by whilst we were living in our bubble crossing the oceans. The realization of the extent of the problems and the effect it is having was quite devastating. Due to these pressures we have been forced to change our future itinery and whilst I still hope to complete the circumnavigation and return to Troon the schedules have had to be accelerated, with the time spent at the stopovers reduced. However considering the difficulties, I feel even more privileged to be able to complete this project.
So, just a day into the passage, the sailing juices are running and we are having a great time. Nikko has settled into our routines very quickly. Being an ex navy man and ocean racer he knows instinctively how to behave aboard and I am looking forward to his company. Bruce & Angela did a great job in vitualing and preparing Kasuje in Cape Town and even found time for a little fun, and are now once again settling into boat life.
We will keep you informed of our progress which you can also track on the Cape-Bahia yacht race, web site.
Please keep in touch with your emails it is great to receive them.
Kindest Regards
Skipper Steve