27+28/4/09 - 14.28.00N 60.52.00W

Flying Cloud
Julian Nichols
Tue 28 Apr 2009 18:25
On the 27th April, being Matt's 30th birthday, the crew of Flying Cloud finally got together on the isle of Martinique.

Jenny and Matt spent the morning working ridiculously hard as the final installation of the watermaker took place, and the promised new generator failed to arrive from the airport - at least initially.

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Meanwhile, from across the way in St Lucia - dad and I made some last minute purchases before boarding Tom's excellent Exodus shuttle. Tom was definitely tempted to chuck out a few lines - having caught nothing in the morning - but time pressure meant that there was no chance.

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Having cracked open the champagne to toast Matt's birthday and distribute his presents, the generator of course arrived.
But Matt's never happier than when covered in grease - so i guess he viewed it as another present.

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Needless to say the crew of Flying Cloud do not shy away from a good party when its needed - after all how many times are you 30?
However, the end of the night did come.... maybe not quick enough..

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Unbelievably this morning (28th) i got up at 7am and started to fit cleats - no hangover.
Somewhat later the rest of the crew joined in and the generator man turned up to finish the fitting.

We now have an appointment with customs at 5pm, and then plan to leave for Bonaire.

Winds look great - E 4/5. Perfect. Can't wait to be at sea.