After the efforts over the weekend and Mon, the Owner kindly allowed the Crew a half day off from boat preps and they all piled into a small (!) hire car and set off for the unknown.  As previously stated the car was small and some of the crew not so, sitting 3 abreast on the back seat was snug especially with some of the broader members of the party there.  First attempts at exploring the hinterland was not terribly successful as the navigation was uncertain but more significantly there had been a failure to check fuel levels before departure and after an hour or so climbing it became apparent that there was insufficient for the task and that petrol stations are scarce away from the coast.  The car never actually stopped but perhaps it was fortunate that the return trip was downhill.

 

Re-vitalised and navigationally better briefed, the 5 then returned to the hill.  Gran Canarias if really very beautiful away from industrial and urban sprawl and the Owner and Crew were much impressed by what they saw.  Lunch was taken in a charming taverna and afterwards a climb was made to 1400m, above the cloud level, which afforded truly magnificent views of the Island and of Tenerife in the distance.  The return journey allowed MB to demonstrate his rallying techniques on hairpin bends but his handbrake turns around them were not appreciated by all.  Fortunately lunch was not served again.

 

Yesterday and today were mainly taken up with victualing and stowing these items below.  The vessel has been watered and the SSB radio receiver fitted, however, the minor repair to the boom vang fitting has yet to be completed.  Lectures in First Aid and weather/routing were attended by some yesterday, whilst others prepared items on the boat.  All continue to be in good spirits and looking forward now to the start.

 

Best wishes to all at home.