We are at last on a direct course for Victoria. Not that we are likely to stay this way but the gribs certainly indicate this. The wind is light but steady from the east and the band of squalls we were following has moved to the west. We are feeling more cheerful about the rest of the passage.

We have had to motor our way out of squalls and back into favourable wind the last few nights. The propshaft sounds noisy and unhealthy but at low revs is not too bad and is holding up so far.

Annie is not enjoying this passage. It is very slow and can be uncomfortable with chaotic seas. The weather is unpredictable with frequent squalls and she is feeling anxious and fearful at times. Matters were not helped today when the cafetière of coffee launched itself off the stove and onto her thigh. She now has a nasty scald with blisters. The stress is telling and we find ourselves getting short with each other. We will be glad when we get to the Seychelles..

Still, we had a lovely sunny afternoon today and used the cruising chute to good effect. We are hoping for a more pleasant and relaxed last few days of the passage.