Our crew of 6 are all first timers at crossing an ocean and to the ARC experience. Notable amongst us is Robert who has had Motor Neurone Disease for 2 years and has coped fantastically with the trip in spite of his significant physical challenges. As we contemplate arriving tomorrow evening it is interesting to look back at experiences, lessons learned, fun, and what a harsh teacher the Atlantic can be.
Chafe and missed rig inspections took their toll. Thursday evening (Day 4) the cruising chute parted from the bag at the mast and was trashed under the boat in 6 seconds – witnessed by Victory Too who we were close to then. On day 6 the spinnaker pole sheared at the mast (no longer useable) . Then the main boom vang failed (metal shear at the boom end) and a harsh lesson was learned about playing the longer game!
On our fellow Beneteau 57’s credit to Les Papillons and Baghira who went further South, a great call, and to Les Papillons for consistent 200 plus days. Overhauled our lead day by day and will be there before us. On our nearly namesake Jasmine, we’ll be waiting for you in the bar!
Fishing was a joy thanks to Phil. Caught 3 Dorado, 2 Wahoo and 2 Skipback Tuna, very tasty raw and cooked. Rest of cooking was first class thanks to Andy (who used to own a restaurant) and Martin. Low light was the boxes of white wine we bought turned out to be fine sherry!
Only saw one pod of dolphins (today in fact) but two killer whales swam next to and under the boat one nightshift which was fascinating and very unnerving. Thank goodness the male didn’t consider us a threat to his calf.
Finally to the WCC and ARC. Great to be a part of, very well organised, and we are looking forward to partying in St Lucia. God’s speed and fair winds to those with several days still ahead.
This log by Stuart
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