Trades still on strike.
Oriole
Tue 12 Mar 2013 00:25
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Prince Rupert Bay,
Dominica.
15:34.90N 61:27.90W
A series of low pressure systems to the north
have pushed the high pressure very much further south and west so we have
been sitting close to the centre of high pressure and there has been
virtually no wind for the last week. We managed to find 8-10 knots for the
short passage from the Saintes, but since then we have been sitting becalmed in
Prince Rupert Bay.
 Moonsong (2 feet longer
on the waterline) pipped us at the post, but after the handicapping
..............
In itself that is not a problem but when there is
no wind you get the land breeze/sea breeze effect with an onshore wind
during the day bringing a short swell into the bay. At night there is a
breeze off the land but during the changeover the boats turn beam onto the sea
brought in by the sea breeze and roll,sometimes vigourously. So yesterday
we put out a stern anchor to keep us pointing into the swell which worked
very well. However another yacht decided that he liked this ploy but
in doing so brought his yacht side by side with us and about 10 meters
away. I did remark that it was rather like being in a marina when he came
to call, but he did not take the hint and replied that we were not to move on
his account. Well! we are not sure on whose account it was, but move
we did and are now waiting for the next idiot to come and anchor on top of
us. Why do they do it we ask when there is an enormous bay with infinite
choice of anchoring places well clear of anyone else. I am told by a good friend
that the best way of sorting out errant anchorers is to invite them on board for
a drink. Our booze locker contents would not last long at the present rate
of defaulting.
 Now both together!
Chris has been canoeing with Peta from Moonsong,
and we have been swimming and snorkling and walking, but the windless
heat during the day has been a bit too much for the latter. So this morning
we were ashore by 0700 and had three hours brisk exercise to the top of the East
and West Cabrits which are two hills which dominate the bay.
 Suinset behind the
Cabrits.
 Up the East
Cabrit............
 ...........and no wind. (Note
the epiphyte on the tree to the right)
These were foritified by the British to keep
out the French. However they seem to get in nevertheless. We are promised more wind on Tuesday so we are planning to get
down to Martinique, so I had better stop making rude remarks about the French,
afterall they are supposed to be our allies.
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