The most variable weather we have ever had.
Unquestionably, this leg has produced the most difficult, unpredictable and
changeable weather that we have had on our round-the-world Rally so far.
Against Bruce's prediction of strengthening Northeasterly winds developing
throughout the evening and night, the wind dropped just after we had finished
supper. Looking at the Skipper's hand-drawn schedule (which showed
our ETA in Richards Bay at various speeds), we started the engine straight
away. John from Chantelle had warned us about the current. Although
the boat speed through the water was always an impressive six and a half to
seven knots, our real progress was slow - around 5 knots. And this means
that we are going to have to battle to arrive in Richards Bay before the next
low-pressure system, predicted by Bruce to be moving up from the South of South
Africa and to arrive in Richards Bay between 9 and 12 o'clock on Tuesday Morning
(0600 and 0900 UK time). The race is on.
This morning the breeze has finally started to develop, and it is now
strong enough for us to be able to switch off the engine; we try and avoid
burning diesel. But if the wind shows signs of weakening or dying, it will
be back on straight away - we don't want to take chances with a possible early
arrival of the next weather system. I will let you know how we get
on.
The crew are well, and looking forward to arriving in Richards Bay, where
no doubt beer and friends will greet us!
All is well with us, and best wishes to everyone.
James, Norfy (Chris) and Alex