Light air blues

Calypso's Web Diary
Joe Drury
Fri 10 Jun 2011 22:37
41:47.4N 16:19.92W
 
2225 GMT
 
Very frustrating trying to keep Callie on a close-hauled course to windward in light airs. Alas, my course is 290, the best I can do, which would be okay for Nova Scotia, but not for the Azores. As soon as I set her up as near to the wind as I dare, the wind shifts faster than the self-steering can cope, and crash-tacks the boat. This then takes 3 or 4 minutes to sort out, whilst I bob about in irons trying to get water flow over the rudder. I nearly threw in the towel in a fit of peak 20 minutes ago, but instead yelled at the top of my lungs until my voice cracked. This seemed to work to ease my frayed temper and nerves, although now I have a sore throat.
 
I plan to tack in 88 miles, or when the wind veers. Please, please cross your fingers at home for a back in the wind over the next few hours, allowing me to at least get some south in my track... and whistle a bit for a few more knots.
 
Goodnight.