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Ximera - Log Day 3 - Making Tracks



Last night and tonight we covered some serious ground at respectably high speeds.

On last night's 8 pm- 2 am watch, we had around 16 knots of wind and travelled at up to 9 knots on a beam reach (with the wind blowing perpendicular to the length of the boat). With practically zero visibility, it was quite unnerving to be hurtling into the black nothingness at such breakneck speeds.

"I feel like we're flying," Michelle said to me (Jonas) at one point. A moment later, we slid down the face of a particularly long wave. "Now I feel like we're surfing," she said. She was right, surfing we were.

The morning brought lighter winds and we hoisted the gennaker (a mix between the genoa, a large fore sail, and a spinnaker, the parachute-esque sail that is often multi-colored, only used when sailing with the wind well behind the boat). With only 10 knots of wind, we were able to travel at up to 8 knots with that magic sail.

After an amazing sunset and a delicious thai-influenced vegetable & rice dinner cooked by Simon, who was officially elected the designated chef, the wind came up again. This time, with the sails close-hauled (the wind being as close to the bow of the boat as possible), the boat again showed itself to handle well in stiff winds. The Ximera is now comfortably doing 8-9 knots in 16 knots of wind.

Conversation on diverse topics - from sustainable energy sources to geological sediments - is flowing freely on board. The thorough introduction to the boat that Will gave the crew is paying off as we gradually begin to understand how her different parts work, and can complete operations (eg, changing sails, making entrances to the log) with increasing ease.

The evenings are getting chillier, much to our thermal pleasure. Down below it is still a veritable inferno during the day. We try to think of it as our very own, floating day spa with a sauna.

Here's to many more miles with strong winds and pleasantly brisk evenings (and maybe even days), sprinkled with lively conversation and topped off with delicious meals. Bring it on!!!




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