can we help
+44(0)1983 296060
+1 757-788-8872
tell me moreJoin a rally

Menu

Exocet Strike - 12-13 January 2017 Exocet Strikes progress



Yesterday was a great days sailing, started off with no reefs, so full sail and a beam reach, with wind coming from the side, our fastest sailing position. Ended up at 1800 with two reefs in the mainsail, then a third reef, reducing our sail area considerably as the wind was increasing as forecast and we didn't want too much sail area up, overnight. Unfortunately the wind had other thoughts and contrary to the forecast started dropping, so at 0830 we shook out one reef, we may well shake out a second during the day if the wind doesn't increase.

The wind also went further behind which means we cannot sail in the direction we want, unless we pole it out the other side to the mainsail, rarely done these days in racing but often in cruising. It's called by some wing in wing and allows you to sail downwind. That's helped enormously.
The forecast has also changed, instead of gusting up to gale force it now suggests max of 25 or so, much more pleasant.
Our progress yesterday was great, overnight less spectacular but ok.
The water temp is now up to 22 deg C so getting warmer, however the clear skies from yesterday have turned into a cloudy sky today. So it feels a lot cooler, and the solar panels aren't so good!
Managed to contact the SSB net controller today, since we started late most of the other boats are well ahead, so good to be in touch on the super old technology of long range radio.
Stella has put the fishing line out so maybe fish for supper!
That's all folks,
John

Previous | Next