After the first night at sea we were all tired so lots of sleeping was the order of the day.
During the day, through the night and into this Saturday morning the wind continues to be light F3 to 4 varying between E and ENE. Never the less we continue to make reasonable progress averaging about 7 knots. We are in visual range of Ashia and at least two others. Whilst yesterday was largely uneventful we had one 'hair-raising' situation.
Eastern Sky a large yacht had been following us astern for 12 or more hours, as the wind dropped light late yesterday afternoon, she started her engines and motor sailed. As she approached it was clear that she would pass close, we watched and took photographs of what was a beautiful 50 foot plus US flagged yacht. The crew were lounging around the deck, she was within 10 meters when we saw that there was no one on the helm. We were making about 7 knots and Eastern Sky about 9. She was along side a few meters off our port and about to hit our bows. With their helmsman rushing towards the wheel John grabbed our helm and pulled us away in time. There were less boats in visual distance overnight as the fleet started to spread, though we still managed to keep track of 3 other yachts all making passage to the North.
The skipper put together an excellent dinner of potatoes, carrots and spicy beef.
We are expecting a period of very light wind in the coming days. Many thanks for your emails yesterday (please remember to keep then data light), and we look forward to hearing the result of the election!
Bill, John and Tom