During the last night, the wind came back. Not a
really strong one, but a solid 3Bf that brought us back to cruising speed. Good
conditions for sailing the last nautical miles to St Lucia (at the time of
writing 69nm to the island's north end, then another 8-ish across the finishing
line and into the harbour).
When something is about to end, it is a good time
to look back. When I'd have to sumarize the trip briefly, I would use one word:
impressive. Or maybe two words: truly impressive - for there have been an
uncountable amount of impressions: the ocean; the different colours; the stars
in the night; the dolphins; sailing 24/7, sometimes in difficult situations,
sometimes patiently trying to keep the boat moving; gennaker at night, only
visible in the starlight; swimming with several kilometers of water below the
feet; the birds in the middle of the Atlantic; sleeping half in the bed, half in
the "Leesegel"; the flying fish, ... last but not least: sharing all this with 5
friends, and living with them on a 46ft. boat for
over 3 weeks, working as a team to keep the boat savely on course no matter
what.
Without getting spiritual, a crossing like this is
an experience that changes something. Or at least, one can learn a lot during
these days and nights on the ocean. For besides sailing, spending time with the
crew, cooking, eating, and sleeping, there is a lot of time to contemplate the
ocean and let your thoughts play with the waves.
The last day sailing on this crossing has ended
with a spectacular sunset. Now, the last night begins.
Position at 23:20 UTC (13:52.99N
59:49.78W)