17.51S 161.01W 14th September 2011

Mojo 2
Andrew Partington
Thu 15 Sep 2011 02:11
Getting close now with just 120NM to go before we see Palmerston.
Without question this passage has been notable for a few things. Firstly the weather has been perfect since we left Tahaa behind. Each day we have enjoyed clear skies and warmth. This passage has also been notable for the lack of wind and lack of swell. This afternoon we are motoring across a completely flat ocean with just the hint of a breeze. If you stand right at the back of the hardtop bimini some 4-5 metres above sea level and look to stern, our wake has left a mark on the sea that extends close to the horizon. As nice as it has been I would still prefer to be sailing.
Late yesterday we landed a striped mackeral of some kind. It was not far off a metre in length but did not put up any real fight. Given that we did not know for sure what it was we let it go back to its mum. Otherwise the reels have gone a little quiet.
We were able to sail with a good speed for most of yesterday but close to dusk the wind changed direction to the north-west and then died. Consequently we have been hearing the whine of the motors now for hours and keeping our fingers crossed for more wind from somewhere.
Without having to think about sailing we are a little bored, so the boat's stainless steel has been getting some attention and is now gleaming.
More to report soon.
Andrew.