22:38.00N 25:07.00W
Today we spotted our first flying fish - moving FAST and low... they looked
like insects moving at great speed.
Just as we're writing this we're surrounded by playing dolphins, about 20
of them - what a sight... and far on the horizon we can see the spinnaker of a
fellow yacht, typically just one or two that we spot every day. At night
we hear the radio calls on Channel 16 VHF of some maniacal sailor who sounds
like he is clanging pots and pans and trying to wake someone up... grrr...
Overnight last night we could feel a noticeable 'shift' in the air, now
that we've passed south of 23deg N, the Tropic of Cancer! The air is
noticeably warmer, necessitating fewer layers, and there is less condensation on
the cushions, as well as smaller swells/waves, even though the wind has stayed
at a consistent 17-20kn.
Today Barry made a fabulous chili con carne, with which we also celebrated
American Thanksgiving Day, as Marc hoisted a US flag to mark the day - toasts
and thanks all around to our great good fortune at being together on this
fantastic voyage. Winds and weather are generally favourable,
and our average speed stays healthy.
On a technical note, Matt and Dan 'spun the pole', i.e. flipped around the
pole that supports the genoa to deal with any potential chafing problems well in
advance - 'chafe prevention' is definitely the name of the
game!!
