Amokura - Log Day 1 - an exciting start

After a busy few days in Mindelo, repairing ourselves and the boat, it was time to put to sea again.  We have banked some great memories of the Cape Verdes, the music, vibrancy, and the warm welcome from the people as well as the stunning scenery, will stay with us as we start the next leg.

The start line was predictably busy, with catamarans starting at the same time as monohulls. It was exciting sailing in close quarters and dodging other boats but no mishaps occurred. As we got clear of the port, the wind died, probably due to the effect of the land. We hoisted the parasail and accelerated away. Where was the wind acceleration zone we had been warned about? 45 minutes later we had found it, and so had other yachts flying poled-out headsails who were broaching and slewing up into wind. With the wind gusting up to 25 kts we needed to get the parasail down fast! With a herculaneum team effort we did, in the meantime our fishing reel was screaming out. Had we caught a fish in the midst off all the drama? When we managed to reel the line in by hand as the reel was broken we discovered weed!

As night descended the wind changed again and headed us, very surreal and not forecast. Again we thought the peaks of Santo Antao might be to blame. We motored a bit as the swell was uncomfortable then altered course to be close hauled. After a couple of hours, like flicking a switch the trade winds kicked in and we were back to our downwind rig, racing along over 3-4 m swell surrounded by the lights of other boats made for a busy first watch with a few close encounters and collision avoidance radio calls. With no moon we could see phosphorescence in the water. Vicky landed a flying fish in the cockpit, now in the fridge!
We are all trying to get used to the intense rolling motion again making every activity on board a challenge. 25% of the crew have been affected by seasickness but generally we are all in good spirits and Amokura is sailing beautifully!
Still over 2000 n. miles to run.
Miles logged in last 24hrs 149 nm
Average speed 6.2kts
Max speed surfing down a wave 10.5 kts

Signing off...
Liz Brigstocke

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