Greetings from Viva!
After a lovely start to Leg 2 in picturesque St. George Harbor, Bermuda, we find ourselves lagging towards the back of the fleet on the journey to the Azores. In spite of our position, spirits and morale are quite high on Viva. After sailing on a course of about 120° for the first 4 days (the closest heading we could hold to the Azores in this prevalent NorthEast wind), we are now on a starboard tack and holding a course of at least 10° North. The hope is that we will eventually find the prevailing Westerlies that will whisk us to the Azores before reaching Newfoundland. The slow pace of sailing, though, has enabled us to treat our stomachs quite well in the beginning of this journey. With accomplished chefs from Germany (Skipper Petra), Italy (Giulia), and then the two Yanks (Josh and Brian), we are enjoying aboard Viva a plethora of culinary delights. Petra and Giulia are both grateful that the Americans have not broken out any Spam or Sloppy Joes yet. Additionally, we might have discovered a way to blend our approach in the Galley with a sailing strategy to gain some essential speed. The belief is that if we quickly consume all of the many pre-made meat pies that we purchased in Bermuda before departure, we might slim Viva enough to pick up a few knots. However, there is a distinct possibility that the weight of the meat pies will simply transfer from the Fridge to our bellies. It´s a risk I´m willing to take.
Till next time, this has been... "B´s Deep Thoughts aboard Viva" with inspirational help from Petra, Giulia, and Josh.