18:40.738N 55:24.611W Operation VMG
Irene IV - World Adventure
Louis Goor
Wed 24 Nov 2021 07:21
Tuesday
Last night, Stuart analysed our TimeZero weather software and saw a
potential route with some wind to the north, which would allow us to cut
back south west and get closer to a bearing on Antigua.
We are trying to save as much fuel as possible by finding sailing weather.
Yesterday's clairvoyance has proven to be slightly pessimistic, as we have
found some unexpected pockets of wind.
Crew helmed through the night on watches as we made some good speed with our
new strategy. The cessation of the engine led to some much-appreciated peace
and calm. The plan of attack brought a palpable sense of mission and
resulting new-found energy to all crew. Sarah comes off watch alongside Ian
at 06.00 with a smile on her face, smitten with the night's sailing action.
As morning broke, the wind again became inconsistent and we were forced to
return to engine on a direct line towards our waypoint.
The day was completely different to the previous. Cloudy, rainy skies
brought temperatures lower and gave much relief after several days of hot
weather. Warm, wet rain allowed several crew to take natural showers on
deck, shampoo in hand.
At 18.00, just before the end of Manu & Raymond's watch, the wind
miraculously turned to a consistent South East breeze and we could cruise
for an hour at 5 knots; every mile sailed saving us precious diesel.
Under engine again, we are seeking windows of wind and hoping to shrug off
the dreaded, ever-present inconsistent puffs of air astern of us.
We ride our luck, hope for the best and try to capitalise when the wind goes
our way.
374 NM to Antigua.