Doldrums schmoldrums!
Oldnick
Wed 11 Dec 2002 15:34
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Since passing the Cape Verde Islands we have been
having excellent sailing weather and consistently making 150 mile days. Edging
closer to the equator we were wondering where we were going to hit the Doldrums
and this afternoon at 5 degrees North, 25 degrees West we arrived!
The North Easterlies died away, the
thunderclouds loomed, the sky dimmed and we got this almighty downpour into
which we flung ourselves with soap and shampoo. What a change from those wet
wipes!
Hilights of the previous 5 days were our first
whale sighting, having the spinnaker up for 3 straight days and various visits
by flying fish and squid. One Flying Fish attacked Karyn in the arm whilst
sailing at night which caused a bit of a squeal. She was attacked the next
afternoon on the foredeck whilst sun-baking. Over the last week I think we have
all adjusted to life on board very well and we are a happy crew.
Our next focus is on where we hit the SE trade
winds. Custom has it that we should find these around 3 degrees North. A phone
call to Koopy tonight should give us this information. Then of course we
have the crossing of the equator. So much to look forward to - we'll let you
know! Anyway, must go, our afternoon tea of pikelets with jam and
cream is ready.
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