Log Day 5: Great sailing conditions - by Nick

Pipistrelle - where are we now?
Bob and Elaine Hazell
Fri 27 Nov 2009 19:08

20:48.5N 27:09.7W

How fortunate to have consistently fair winds and great sailing conditions for the first 6 days  - let's hope this continues for the rest of the crossing.
 
With more stable winds and sea state, we have been able to improve the sail configuration and the average speed. Logged distance in the 24 hours to midday today (Friday) increased by 16% to 170 nm. The boat continues to perform well and we are enjoying some great sailing in marvellous conditions.
 
The watch system, which is working well, has been varied from time to time according to a curious formula known only to Alan - he claims that changes are the result of 'divine intervention'! Night watches have been rewarded with some spectacular night skies and numerous shooting stars.
 
We have enjoyed some excellent cuisine from Elaine and tonight we are dining on a 3kg Mahi Mahi (Dorado) caught by Paul last night while sailing at 7 knots. We have seen many 'coveys' of flying fish, but none has landed aboard - as yet.
 
The ARC radio net is working well and is proving a great way to keep in touch with other rally participants. Many thanks Chris (157) for your innovative daily predicted arrival times - it has already encouraged us to shake out the odd reef before we might otherwise have done! 
 
Fair winds and safe passages,
 
Bob, Elaine, Alan, Paul & Nick.