After 630 miles and 79 hours sailing we arrived in Bayona Average speed 8 knts max speed 13knts.

The first two days we were under engine most of the time as the winds were light and the seas were calm however Thursday night the wind came from the North West and built to force 5 –6 fortunately this was down wind, and ideal conditions for Out~Rageous.

First thing Friday morning we had a bit of a disaster whilst sat in the cockpit contemplating the day the bimini roof shook  and it all went dark.

The main Halyard had parted (rope that holds up the mainsail) resulting in the boom falling on the roof and the sail falling down.

After about an hour the mess was cleared away the sail re-hoisted using another halyard and we were sailing again.

The Star of the trip, Lynn who has overcome fears, she fed us and comforted us whilst confronting her own demons just an amazing lady to whom I am so lucky to have as a wife, cruising companion and best friend.

 

 

We were then joined by dolphins, the sun came out, and Out~Rageous flew toward Bayona.

We arrived at night but fortunately Paul had been into Bayona previously, so entering in the dark was not a problem.

We are currently enjoying a rest day before starting our make and mend.

I attach a few pictures taken by Gary. Most of the time we were the only boat around, which I have to say was mainly due to the choice of route, which took us well out into the Bay away from the major shipping route.

 

Lynn’s bit!

 

I cannot believe I have done this crossing. I was so apprehensive. It was so bizarre to be in the centre of Biscay, a sea with such an awesome reputation. The nights were so dark, no light pollution out there. Just four of us on a little plastic boat with nowhere to pull in and stop.

They say you can smell land after a time at sea and it is so true. Coming into Bayona in the dark, we could smell the diesel and petrol fumes, the general aroma of humanity!

Gary and Paul were absolutely amazing. Paul’s great knowledge of ocean sailing is awesome. For Derek, Gary and myself, it was our first such passage and it was so comforting to have him with us.

 

All this has been made possible by Derek. Who has worked tirelessly to sort Out-Rageous over the last two years. I remember well the evenings he came home exhausted and depressed as whatever job he was working on at the time uncovered yet another job he would have to spend time and energy on. The only thing that has kept him going has been his dream of this massive adventure we have just begun.

Hats off to you Derek.