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Frisco - Log Day 15 A squall or two



Last evening we experienced a couple of squalls somewhat more intense than others. The first event was at the end of the day when we were still flying the Parasailor. We had in past evenings left the Parasailor up and managed to handle small squalls of 30 knots. As this somewhat larger and darker mass approached we discussed using it as gauge to determine the limits of our new spinnaker. As it approached we stood around in the cockpit telling stories of how we were caught with too much sail up in squalls in years gone by. A few seconds later the wind hit in full force pulling Frisco upwind and knocking her over so that we were standing on the cockpit coaming. As we cast off the sheet allowing the spinnaker to thrash around three men scrambled forward to douse the spinnaker with a snuffer. It took the three to bring the snuffer down and hold on until the wind subsided. We then lowered the sail into the V-Berth.

Much humbled by our experience we discussed what we had learned then sat becalmed after the squall passed. After motoring for a while waiting for some more wind there was finally enough to raise the mainsail for a nighttime downwind cruise. Not five minutes after the off watch three went to bed than out of the darkness the wind rose steadily to over 40 knots. I held on to the wheel keeping Frisco pointed downwind as the gusts changed in intensity and direction. This was happening amidst residual swells of 4 to 5 metres and the occasional green water tossed at us in the cockpit.

This morning we were greeted by a pod of dolphins and considerably calmer seas, unfortunately there was no wind. After motoring for an hour a breeze filled in from the East. Cautiously we raised the Parasailor to find that it was still intact. We have had a wonderful day sailing downwind with the Parasailor and now that darkness is upon us once more it is still up, but I turn the radar on occasionally looking for surprise squalls!!

Good evening.

Frisco Crew.

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