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Two Fish - Day 6 - Back to Colombia



According to our chart plotter, we are 39 miles from our return landfall in Colombia. Earlier this year,we traveled light. This time we brought our floating home. We have to keep all sails out and our speed up so that we arrive before sunset, while being aware of any wind shift in this area that is legendary for strong breezes. Other boats have shared their experiences which included puffs up to 38 knots. I was active on deck during the night in what from space must have looked like a sailor inspecting his inventory. Full main, main with 1 and then 2 reefs, Full genoa, genoa with 1 and 2 reefs and screecher. Some sails made multiple appearances. The spaceman must be puzzled - why not just turn on the engines? Gail was in agreement with him. We have been stingy with engine hours because I find the engine noise like living inside a washing machine. The old trick of turning on only the port engine is off the menu with friends living in the port hull. During her nighttime watch, Gail grabbed a blanket for warmth, despite our proximity to the equator.

The nighttime reefing is slow and I always fear tearing the sail. I need to upgrade our halyard and reef point markings. The complex term refers to marking the lines with ink bands on the winch at the point you should stop raising them. Also, I should just move the topping lift out of the way for periods when the main is powering the boat.

Plenty of boats coming down the coast for Jackie and James to avoid. They seem to get stuck with all the annoying traffic. Their great job not hitting any ships at night was noticed by the captain but I was too busy tweaking lines to comment. No comments or complaints from their side when I was doing my 100th sail change of the trip.

We did not have a party for Two Fish's 13,000th mile of traveling. We will have a huge party at 25,000 miles. Everyone is invited.

We have tallied up our chores for Santa Marta and the list should not stop us from enjoying the activities ashore. I am looking forward to both the city tour and the BBQ in the national park. Maybe also a run or two onshore?

To all our readers, Happy Thursday. Pre-arrival process has begun. Colombia courtesy flag and Q flag hoisted. Off to shower and don my Colombia Football Club shirt.

Jason
www.twofishcat.com



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