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Aviva - Land Ho!!



After 48 hours of motoring through calm waters, it was with great pleasure that we turn off the engine last night with 8-10 knots of east wind, able to sail our final night and day. After dark, off the transom in the water churned up by the prop, we saw bioluminescent organisms, their small speck of brightness moving through the water briefly, like aquatic shooting stars. Meanwhile, overhead, there were some night sky shooting stars as well. At dinner (mahi and couscous), we reflected on our bittersweet feelings ... the excited anticipation of reaching Nanny Cay and catching up with those in the fleet who have already arrived; the feeling of accomplishment at making this approximately 1500-mile passage successfully (knock on wood!), and the twinge of sadness at seeing the passage come to an end. This has been a wonderful experience of teamwork and friendship. From vigorous wind and seas to dead calm and flat seas, from pounding on the nose to dead run, we have worked together collaboratively and comfortably, shared in cooking, enjoyed each others' company. Whereas Fred and I were alternating Captain of the Day, as the days wore on, who was captain ceased to matter. We had a sustainable watch rhythm going, and plenty of food and water. That isn't to say we aren't looking forward to showers and laundry!!!

We are now cooking along at over 7 knots, in 15 knots of east wind. We can see Virgin Gorda in the distance!! We will reach Anegada first, of course, but we can't see it at this point. We hope to make it to Nanny Cay in time for dinner tonight!

We are grateful to whomever enjoyed following the trajectory of our passage these last 12 days and reading our occasional blog posts. While we have been transiting ocean waters hundreds of miles from shore, the furthest from human services and communication we have ever been, the love and support of our family and friends has meant a great deal to us.

Finally, we want to thank the Caribbean 1500 Rally. The infrastructure, information and support provided by the rally contributed to the knowledge, courage, and outfitting we needed to make this passage. Andy, Mia, Lyell, and Jake -- our gratitude to all of you!

Don't be surprised if we do this again -- it has been great!

--Dorothy, for s/v Aviva

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